Corner connector for fire-protection glazing units

Abstract

Corner connector (I) for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip in fire-protection glazing units, comprising two plug-in legs (31), suitable for plugging into a profile strip (1), and a connection region (34), which connects the two plug-in legs (31), comprising an outer surface (39), two pane contact surfaces (40) and an inner surface (41), wherein - a cutout (33) is made in the corner connector (I) and is suitable, in a fire-protection glazing unit (II), for producing a passage from the surroundings to the inner pane gap (12), and - a backflow preventer (32) is inserted into the cutout (33) or adjacent to the cutout (33) and is suitable for allowing the flow of a free-flowing fire-protection compound through the cutout (33) from the surroundings into the pane gap (12) and for preventing the backflow of a free-flowing fire-protection compound through the cutout (33) from the pane gap (12) in the direction of the surroundings.

Description

[0001] Corner connectors for fire-resistant glazing

[0002] The invention relates to a corner connector for fire-resistant glazing, a fire-resistant glazing and a method for its production.

[0003] In the event of a fire, fire-resistant glazing is designed to protect people and objects on one side of the glazing from a fire on the other side. This not only seals out smoke, but also creates at least a temporary heat barrier. During normal operation, however, fire-resistant glazing is intended to function like a normal transparent glazing element. One category of fire-resistant glass consists of at least two, usually transparent, panes with a fire-protection layer sandwiched between them. The fire-protection layer, also known as a fire-protection interlayer or fire-protection gel, contains, for example, an intumescent, heat-insulating and / or cooling material. The material of the fire-protection layer is, for example, an alkali polysilicate with the highest possible water content.Water-based, organic, gel-like polymer hydrogels are also known as materials for fire protection layers. These fire protection layers have one thing in common: they are transparent at room temperature, but become cloudy and / or foam under the influence of heat, which is when their insulating effect unfolds.

[0004] From DE 3037015 A1, a spacer frame made of C-shaped profile sections for fire-resistant glass panes is known, wherein a space between two silicate glass panes is filled with a gel-like material containing salt and water.

[0005] Alkali silicates are completely transparent under normal application conditions, but begin to irreversibly cloud and foam at temperatures as low as approximately 80°C. Such fire-resistant glazing can be produced by applying a thin layer of alkali silicate in liquid form to one side of a first pane and then drying it. This drying step is complex and delays the manufacturing process. A second pane is then bonded onto the intermediate or protective layer of alkali silicate. Such a manufacturing process is time-consuming, and it is difficult to guarantee consistent product quality, particularly with regard to air inclusions. WO 94 / 04355 A1 therefore proposes a process in which the fire-resistant layer can be produced by casting and without drying.The fire protection layer of WO 94 / 04355 A1 is a polysilicate formed from alkali silicate and at least one hardener. The starting material is flowable and suitable for pouring into cavities. A chamber formed by the space between two (or more) panes is sealed all the way around the edge of the panes. A hole is created in the seal, and the chamber is filled through the hole with the starting material of a fire protection layer in a liquid or pasty state. The hole is then sealed, and the fire protection compound cures to form the fire protection layer.

[0006] Filling the chamber of a fire-resistant glass pane with the flowable fire-resistant compound is a process that generally involves numerous manual steps. For example, the fire-resistant compound is manually poured into the chamber formed between the panes using a hose, and any bubbles created during filling are manually released. The open filling opening is then manually closed and sealed. WO 03 / 031173 A1 discloses a method for filling fire-resistant glass panes in which the filling opening is closed with a driver plug after filling, and the cavity is simultaneously vented. To simplify filling the chamber of a fire-resistant glass pane, according to DE 102007020537 A1, a sleeve can be inserted into the circumferential seal. This sleeve extends outward from the interior of the chamber and contains a sealing element.EP 3165700 A1 describes a filling device for fire-resistant glass, comprising a filling connection for filling the fire-resistant material at a lower filling opening and a venting device for connection to an upper venting opening of the fire-resistant glass. The venting device comprises a venting channel with a swelling agent that swells upon contact with the fire-resistant compound to close the venting channel. Filling occurs via a hose, with any fire-resistant compound remaining in the hose polymerizing with the hose and then being able to be removed.

[0007] EP 3002122 A1 discloses a device and a method for producing fire-resistant glass, wherein a first pane and a second pane are connected at a distance from one another and filled with a flowable fire-protection compound, which is cured in a subsequent step to form a fire-protection gel.

[0008] WO 02 / 100636 A1 describes a device for filling a cavity between panes of glass with intumescent organic fire-protection compounds. The fire-protection compound is introduced in the form of an aqueous solution with a high water content. The aqueous solution is mixed in a container and, before being poured into a glazing blank, degassed and its volume reduced by evaporating a portion of the water under vacuum.

[0009] DE102018109278B4 discloses a spacer frame for fire-resistant glazing with corner connectors. The corner connectors include a filling opening for filling a flowable fire-resistant compound. The filling opening consists of a hole in the corner area of ​​the corner connector, through which a lance can be inserted into the fire-resistant glazing blank for filling. When removing the lance, some of the fire-resistant compound may flow back if the filling opening is not closed quickly enough via an externally attached mechanism. This is not part of the corner connector but must be provided separately during the filling process.

[0010] EP 0569298 A1 discloses a device for pressure equalization between the interior atmosphere and the exterior environment of an insulating glazing unit. The device comprises a fusible metal seal in the corner of the insulating glazing unit. The seal melts in the event of a fire, thus enabling air exchange and the associated pressure equalization. There is no fire-resistant layer between the panes of the insulating glazing unit. In the presence of the seal, it closes the opening in the corner, preventing any gas or substance exchange through the corner.

[0011] WO 2017 / 064166 A1 discloses a connector for connecting two hollow profile strips, comprising a membrane. The membrane is gas-permeable and water vapor-tight and preferably comprises expanded microporous polytetrafluoroethylene. This membrane is intended for gas exchange through the corner connector, but not for liquid exchange. It is not possible to fill a large amount of flowable mass into the cavity between the panes via the membrane within a short period of time.

[0012] There is a need for corner connectors for fire-resistant glazing that enable simple and quick filling of the fire-resistant glazing, a fire-resistant glazing that can be easily filled, and a method for filling the fire-resistant glazing. The present invention is based on the object of providing such a corner connector, a fire-resistant glazing, and an improved method for filling the fire-resistant glazing.

[0013] The object of the present invention is achieved by a corner connector according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are set forth in the subclaims. A fire-resistant glazing according to the invention and a method for its production are set forth in further independent claims.

[0014] The corner connector according to the invention serves to connect two ends of at least one profile strip in fire-resistant glazing and comprises two plug-in legs that are suitable for plugging into or plugging onto a profile strip. The two plug-in legs are linked together via a connecting region that connects the two plug-in legs and comprise an outer surface, two side surfaces, and an inner surface. A recess is provided in the corner connector, which, when installed in fire-resistant glazing, is suitable for creating a passage from the environment to the inner cavity between the panes. The recess thus connects the outer surface of the corner connector with its inner surface and is thus continuous through the corner connector. A backflow preventer is inserted into the recess of the corner connector or adjacent to the recess.In the recess means that the backflow preventer is fixed within the recess and is therefore inserted into the recess between the inner and outer surfaces of the corner connector. Depending on its design and geometry, a backflow preventer inserted into the recess can also extend out of the recess and protrude beyond the inner surface of the corner connector into the cavity between the panes of the fire-resistant glazing. A backflow preventer that is installed adjacent to the recess is attached to the inner or outer surface of the corner connector next to the recess and covers an opening in the recess on the surface to which it is attached. The backflow preventer installed in the recess or next to the recess is suitable for preventing the flow of a flowable fire protection compound through the recess from the cavity between the panes towards the environment.When the corner connector is installed in a spacer frame for fire-resistant glazing, the fire protection compound can be filled into the cavity through the recess, for example, using a filling lance. After removing the filling lance, the backflow preventer within the recess prevents the fire protection compound from flowing back through the recess and out of the cavity.

[0015] The corner connector according to the invention enables simple, bubble-free filling of fire-resistant glazing with fire-resistant compound, preventing the backflow of the compound after the filling process. This prevents the formation of air bubbles in the cavity. The backflow preventer is easily integrated into the spacer frame via the corner connector, requiring no additional steps for integrating the backflow preventer.

[0016] Filling fire-resistant glazing with a corner connector according to the invention is preferably carried out using a filling lance that is inserted through the recess into the cavity between the panes. However, the filling process can also be carried out by other means, for example by installing a line on the surface of the recess facing the environment. According to the invention, the backflow preventer enables the flow of a flowable fire-protection compound through the recess from the environment into the cavity between the panes. This means that the backflow preventer according to the invention is suitable for enabling a flow of compound from the environment into the interior of the glazing, but prevents this flow in the opposite direction. This criterion also applies if a filling lance is inserted into the recess of the corner connector. The backflow preventer is integrated into the corner connector itself and does not need to be removed after the filling process.In a non-inventive design of the corner connector without a backflow preventer, the fire protection compound would flow out of the cavity through the recess after the filling process is complete, so the recess would have to be sealed promptly, for example, with a plug. The backflow preventer of the corner connector according to the invention prevents such unhindered backflow of the fire protection compound out of the cavity. This is advantageous for preventing the formation of air bubbles in the cavity and facilitating the filling process.

[0017] The recess of the corner connector can be freely selected in terms of its cross-section geometry, depending on the geometry of the backflow preventer to be used. The recess can, for example, have a round, oval, or square cross-section, preferably a round or oval cross-section.

[0018] The corner connector is suitable for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip for fire-resistant glazing. These profile strips are known to those skilled in the art and are used as spacers in fire-resistant glazing. The corner connector comprises at least two plug-in legs and a connecting area that connects the two plug-in legs. The two plug-in legs are each suitable for being inserted into one end of a profile strip or plugged onto one end of a profile strip, thus creating a connection between the ends of at least one profile strip. The connecting area connects the two plug-in legs and is not intended to be inserted into or plugged onto a profile strip. The corner connector comprises an outer surface, an inner surface and two side surfaces.The outer surface of the finished fire-resistant glazing faces the environment and the inner surface of the finished fire-resistant glazing faces the inner cavity between the panes. The side surfaces are the surfaces of the corner connector that face towards the panes of fire-resistant glazing. Along the plug-in legs, the side surfaces are in contact with the side surfaces of the spacer after being inserted into or plugged onto the spacer. When the plug-in legs are inserted into the spacer, the side surfaces of the spacer are in contact with the panes of the fire-resistant glazing. When the plug-in legs are plugged onto the spacer, the legs are in contact with the panes of the fire-resistant glazing. In the connection area, the corner connector protrudes from the spacer profiles so that the side surfaces in this area are in contact with the panes.The side surfaces in the connection area are designed so that the outer panes of the fire-resistant glazing can be attached there using a suitable sealant. The corner connector connects the ends of one or two profile strips that are assembled to form a spacer frame. The two plug-in legs are fixed in or on the profile strip(s) and are partially enclosed by them. Once the plug-in legs have been connected to a profile strip, the side surfaces of the connection area and the outer surface of the connection area are exposed. The side surfaces are the surfaces that face the outer panes in the finished fire-resistant glazing and are arranged parallel to the outer panes of the fire-resistant glazing. The outer surface is the surface that faces the environment in the finished fire-resistant glazing.Depending on the desired geometry of the spacer frame, the two plug-in legs form different angles to each other, for example, between 10° and 180°. In a preferred embodiment, the plug-in legs are at an angle of 90° to each other.

[0019] The plug-in legs are designed to be inserted into or onto a profile strip. Whether the corner connectors are plugged in or plugged on is at the discretion of the specialist and can be selected depending on the geometry and nature of the profile strip. The principle for connecting the plug-in legs to the profile strips is that one of these two elements is designed as the receiving part ("female") and the connected element as the plug-in part ("male"). In principle, a corner connector can also have one plug-in leg as a plug-in leg and one plug-in leg as a plug-on leg. However, the plug-in legs of a corner connector are preferably designed identically, with plug-in legs or plug-on legs being selected depending on the geometry of the profile strip to be connected.If the profile strip is designed as a solid profile, for example, the plug-in legs are preferably designed as plug-on legs that are plugged onto the profile strip. The plug-on legs thus comprise a receptacle that accommodates a section of the profile strip. For profile strips designed as hollow profiles with a closed or open cavity, corner connectors with plug-in legs are preferred, with the plug-in legs at least partially engaging into the cavity of the profile strip. Mixed forms of plug-in legs are also possible, engaging into a closed or open cavity of a profile strip and additionally having elements that encompass the profile strip on their outer surfaces.

[0020] The corner connector is preferably designed as a rigid joint. This means that after the corner connector has been manufactured with an integrated recess containing a backflow preventer, it is no longer bendable in the connection area. The angle a between the two plug-in legs can then no longer be significantly changed, i.e., by a maximum of 5°, preferably by a maximum of 1°, and most preferably not changed at all. This design improves the stability of the connector and prevents damage to the backflow preventer's fastening in the connection area.

[0021] The backflow preventer used in the corner connector according to the invention can be implemented in the form of a wide variety of commercially available backflow preventers, such as check valves or flap valves. The backflow preventer is preferably a slit valve, a duckbill valve, an umbrella check valve, a diaphragm check valve, a valve cone, a solenoid valve, or a flap valve. Such backflow preventers are commercially available. Such valves and flap valves close the recess as soon as the volume flow passing through the recess ceases. Accordingly, the recess of the corner connector is automatically closed when the volume flow of the flowable fire protection compound ceases and / or when a filling lance inserted through the backflow preventer of the recess is removed.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the backflow preventer is designed as a slit valve. Slit valves are preferably designed as diaphragm valves with a plastic diaphragm that has at least one notch. When a volume flow is applied, the fluid is pushed through the notch, with the plastic diaphragm bulging in the direction of the volume flow. When the volume flow subsides, the diaphragm returns to its neutral starting position and closes the opening. A plastic diaphragm with a cross-shaped notch is preferably used. A slit valve is also suitable for inserting a filling lance through the slit of the valve into the space between the panes, with the plastic diaphragm resting against the pipe wall of the filling lance and minimizing or preventing the escape of fire protection compound during the filling process. A cross-slit valve is particularly preferred to facilitate the insertion of a filling lance.

[0023] A particularly preferred embodiment of a slit valve is a so-called duckbill valve. This also comprises a plastic membrane, with the plastic membrane having a beak-shaped protrusion that opens into a slit. Duckbill valves feature improved diaphragm recovery after deformation. Thus, the slit of the duckbill valve closes particularly securely after the inserted filling lance is removed. A good seal against escaping fire protection compound is also ensured during the filling process.

[0024] In a further preferred embodiment, the backflow preventer is an umbrella check valve. This is formed by a movable cap, for example made of rubber or silicone, which, like an umbrella in a storm, flips over in the volume flow of the incoming fire protection compound, opening the valve. A volume flow in the opposite direction pushes the movable cap in the opposite direction, closing the recess. When filling using a filling lance, the movable cap of the umbrella check valve is pushed into the open position by the filling lance and swings back into the closed position after the filling lance is removed.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the backflow preventer is a diaphragm check valve, the diaphragm of which opens in the volume flow of the flowable fire protection compound or by inserting a filling lance and closes when the volume flow is in the opposite direction.

[0026] Furthermore, the backflow preventer can be designed as a valve cone. The conical wall of the cone has one or more openings, preferably a plurality of openings, through which the flowable fire protection compound flows. The fire protection compound flows into the valve cone from the outer surface of the cone, with a membrane located on the inside of the cone being pushed away from the cone surface by the incoming fluid. This opens the valve. If the flow rate breaks down or the flow rate is in the opposite direction, the membrane is drawn back toward the inside of the cone, closing the valve.

[0027] Furthermore, the backflow preventer can be designed as a solenoid valve. Suitable solenoid valves are commercially available. In one possible embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a plate suitable for closing an opening. The plate and the area adjacent to the opening comprise a magnetic closure. The plate is arranged on the opening in such a way that a volume flow of fire protection compound into the cavity between the panes or an inserted filling lance lifts the plate and the fire protection compound flows into the chamber. If the volume flow stops or the filling lance is removed, the plate is pulled towards the opening and closes it.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, the backflow preventer is designed as a check valve. This check valve is preferably arranged on the inside of the corner connector so that the check valve covers the recess. A volume flow passing through the recess or a filling lance inserted into the space between the panes moves a movable part of the check valve away from the recess. This movable part forms the actual flap part of the check valve. The flap part can be designed as a rigid element that is rotatably attached to one side of the recess and swings open when force is applied to the surface of the flap part facing the recess. A volume flow from the space between the panes towards the environment pushes the flap towards the recess, closing it.In a further preferred embodiment of the check valve, the movable flap part is designed as a flexible plastic membrane. This is preferably attached to the inside of the corner connector on one or both sides of the recess. The plastic membrane is movable in the area of ​​the recess and is pushed away from the recess by a volume flow entering the cavity between the panes or by an inserted lance. If the filling lance is removed or the incoming volume flow stops, the plastic membrane moves back to the recess and closes it.

[0029] The recess is preferably located in the connection area between the two connecting legs. The recess should be positioned in a space-saving manner in the connection area between the connecting legs. Furthermore, filling the corner of the fire-resistant glazing with the flowable fire protection compound is advantageous to prevent bubble formation.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the corner connector, the recess with backflow preventer is in a flow direction from the environment towards the space between the panes on a total area of ​​at least 0.5 mm 2 , preferably at least 1 mm 2 , particularly preferably at least 2 mm 2 , in particular of at least 5 mm 2, for flowable fire protection compounds. The flow direction from the environment into the cavity is defined based on the installation situation of the corner connector in a fire-resistant glazing. In the finished fire-resistant glazing, the outer surface of the corner connector faces the environment, and the inner surface of the finished fire-resistant glazing faces the inner cavity, so that during the filling process, the fluid flows through the recess from the outer surface of the corner connector toward the inner surface. The aforementioned total areas improve the flow cross-section when filling with flowable fire protection compound.

[0031] In one possible embodiment of the corner connector according to the invention, the connecting area protrudes relative to the plug-in legs. The projection U between the outer surface of the connecting area and the outer surface of the plug-in legs is 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 1 mm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 4 mm, for example 2.5 mm. Enlarging the connecting area increases the stability of the connector and provides more mounting space for the backflow preventer.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the corner connector, it is manufactured using an injection molding process. The plug-in legs and the connecting area are injection molded. The backflow preventer is either integrated directly during the injection molding process or subsequently inserted into the recess or adjacent to the recess. After the injection-molded material has hardened, the finished corner connector can be removed from the injection molding tool, and the backflow preventer, if not already integrated, can be inserted.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment of the corner connector according to the invention, the recess on the outer surface of the corner connector is covered. The cover closes the recess with a backflow preventer inserted therein to prevent the ingress of dirt or secondary sealant, which can optionally be used when sealing the fire-resistant glazing. The cover can, for example, be snapped in, clicked in, screwed in via a thread, or be formed by a rubber cap inserted into the recess.

[0034] The corner connector is preferably made of polymers, as these have low thermal conductivity, which leads to improved thermal insulation properties of the edge seal. Particularly preferably, the connector contains biocomposites, polyethylene (PE), polycarbonates (PC), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polybutadiene, polynitriles, polyesters, polyurethanes, polymethyl methacrylates, polyacrylates, polyamides, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), particularly preferably acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylate-styrene-acrylonitrile (ASA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene / polycarbonate (ABS / PC), styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), PET / PC, PBT / PC, and / or copolymers or mixtures thereof.

[0035] In one possible embodiment, the polymeric corner connector is fiber-reinforced. The corner connector preferably has a fiber content of 5% to 65%, particularly preferably 20% to 60%. The fiber content in the corner connector according to the invention improves strength and stability. By selecting the fiber content, the thermal expansion coefficient of the corner connector can be varied and adapted to the hollow profile spacer. Natural fibers or glass fibers, particularly glass fibers, are preferably used to reinforce the corner connector.

[0036] In an alternative design, the corner connector can also be made of metal.

[0037] In addition to the features described, the corner connector can comprise further features, for example elements for fixing the plug-in legs in the spacer. For this purpose, the plug-in legs can have slats or wire elements that enable better fixing of the plug-in legs in the spacer. Alternatively or additionally, the corner connector can be equipped with fixing elements. If the plug-in legs are designed as plug-in legs, the fixing elements extend, for example, from the connection area at a distance from the outer surface of the plug-in legs and parallel to the legs. The spacer profile plugged onto the plug-in legs encloses the outer surface of the plug-in legs, with the fixing elements resting on the surface of the spacers facing away from the leg and securing them in position.In other words, the spacer profile engages between the fixing element and the insertion leg in the corner connector, with the insertion leg being at least partially enclosed by the spacer profile. The corner connector according to the invention can be designed as either a single or a multiple corner connector. A single corner connector comprises two insertion legs, each for receiving a profile strip. A multiple corner connector, on the other hand, has at least four insertion legs, half of which run parallel to each other. In the connection area, the multiple corner connector has a web from which all legs of the corner connector originate. In a preferred embodiment, the corner connector according to the invention is designed as a double corner connector. This has four insertion legs, two of which are arranged parallel to each other.Such a double corner connector preferably contains one or more recesses containing backflow preventers.

[0038] A further aspect of the invention relates to fire-resistant glazing comprising at least one corner connector according to the invention. The fire-resistant glazing comprises at least one first pane, a second pane arranged parallel to the first pane, and a circumferential spacer frame arranged between the panes. The spacer frame comprises at least one profile strip and at least one corner connector according to the invention. An inner space between the panes, also referred to as a chamber, is formed between the first pane, the second pane, and the spacer frame, into which a fire-resistant layer is inserted. The at least two plug-in legs of the corner connector according to the invention are inserted into the ends of the at least one profile strip.

[0039] The spacer frame can comprise one or more individual profile strips assembled to form a complete frame. The individual strips can be welded, glued, or connected via connectors. The profile strip can also be continuous and bent at the corners. The ends of the profile strip are connected at least at one point via a corner connector according to the invention. The spacer frame is preferably rectangular. Most fire-resistant glazing is manufactured in this shape.

[0040] The spacer frame can be formed by a profile strip bent into a frame, the two ends of which are connected by a corner connector according to the invention. A spacer frame can also be composed of a profile strip divided into several strips, with at least two individual strips being connected by a corner connector according to the invention, and the remaining strips being connected using corner connectors according to the prior art.

[0041] The spacer frame preferably contains a corner connector according to the invention with a backflow preventer, a corner connector with a vent opening, and two corner connectors according to the prior art without a vent opening or recesses. The corner connector with a backflow preventer and the corner connector with a vent opening are preferably attached to two opposite corners to achieve an optimal filling process. The corner connector with a vent opening preferably has a recess as a vent opening, through which air can escape from the space between the panes during the filling process. A vent pipe is particularly preferably inserted into the recess. Alternatively or in addition to the vent pipe, a backflow preventer is preferably inserted into the vent opening.The backflow preventers used in the corner connector according to the invention are suitable, wherein the installation direction of the backflow preventer in the vent opening is selected such that a volume flow from the space between the panes towards the environment opens the backflow preventer and a volume flow from the environment into the space between the panes is prevented.

[0042] An embodiment of a spacer frame without a vent opening is also within the scope of the invention, in which case the air escapes during the filling process via the recess of the corner connector according to the invention.

[0043] The profile strips, also called spacers, comprise at least a first pane contact surface, a second pane contact surface arranged parallel to it, an outer wall arranged perpendicular to the pane contact surfaces, and optionally an inner wall, also referred to as the glazing interior wall. The outer wall is arranged essentially parallel to the glazing interior wall and connects the side walls to each other.

[0044] Profile strips for fire-resistant glazing are known to those skilled in the art, with both rigid or flexible polymer profile strips and strand-like extruded flexible profiles being common.

[0045] Flexible, extruded profiles, for example, are made from a sealant and are also referred to as thermoplastic spacers. These are preferably designed as solid profiles and preferably comprise a sealant from the group of hot-melt adhesives, preferably from the group of butyl-based hot-melt adhesives, preferably butyl rubber and / or polyisobutylene. Other suitable sealants are known to those skilled in the art from applications for thermoplastic spacers (TPS). Such spacers can be extruded directly onto one of the panes of the fire-resistant glazing or provided as a prefabricated strand that is bonded between the panes using a primary sealant. Such profile strips are preferably combined with corner connectors with slip-on legs.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the profile strips are designed as rigid or flexible polymer profiles. These prove particularly advantageous in the manufacturing process of fire-resistant glazing for prefabricating a spacer frame and gluing the prefabricated frame between the panes. Such profile strips are known in the art and comprise at least a first pane contact surface, a second pane contact surface arranged parallel thereto, an outer wall arranged perpendicular to the pane contact surfaces, and optionally an inner wall, also referred to as the glazing interior wall. The outer wall is arranged essentially parallel to the glazing interior wall and connects the side walls to one another. The glazing interior wall, if present, preferably has a recess so that the profile strip is open at this surface.In a preferred embodiment, the first pane contact surface, the second pane contact surface, and the outer wall enclose a cavity open toward the space between the panes. Embodiments with a cavity are particularly suitable for combination with corner connectors with insert legs, which engage in the cavity of the profile strip.

[0047] The profile strips are preferably shaped like the letters H, W, or I, and more preferably like the letters C or U. Profile strips with closed or semi-open cavities are particularly suitable for combination with corner connectors with mortise legs. For example, a U-shaped profile strip encompasses the outer surface and at least parts of the side surfaces of the corner connector. C-shaped profile strips are advantageous in that they encompass the outer surface, the side surfaces, and part of the inner surface of the corner connector, thus enabling improved fixing. The inner surface of the corner connector remains at least partially exposed. The inner wall of the profile strips, also known as the glazing inner surface, is preferably at least partially recessed so that the fire protection compound fills the cavity of the profile strips.The first pane contact surface and the second pane contact surface of the profile strip are provided for the attachment of the first pane and the second pane. Preferably, the first pane and the second pane are attached to the first pane contact surface and the second pane contact surface, respectively, via a primary sealant. The spacer frame is preferably prefabricated and then attached between the first pane and the second pane via a primary sealant. This ensures a good seal between the inner space between the panes and the outside environment. This prevents the penetration of moisture. The primary sealant preferably contains a polyisobutylene. The polyisobutylene can be a crosslinking or non-crosslinking polyisobutylene.

[0048] In a further embodiment, the primary sealant comprises other fastening means known to those skilled in the art for securing the panes to the first and second pane contact surfaces. These include, for example, the double-sided foam adhesive tapes commercially available under the term structural glazing tape, which comprise a pressure-sensitive polymer foam and acrylate adhesive. Furthermore, transparent double-sided acrylate adhesive tapes are also known and suitable for this purpose.

[0049] As an alternative to bonding with a primary sealant, profile strips made of strand-like extruded sealants can also be injected directly onto or between the panes.

[0050] The inner cavity between the panes is defined by the first pane, the second pane, and the profile strip. The outer wall of the profile strip and the first and second panes preferably define an outer cavity between the panes. The surrounding outer cavity is preferably filled adjacent to the surrounding sealant with an outer sealant known as a secondary sealant. This outer seal primarily serves to bond the two panes together and thus ensure the mechanical stability of the glazing.

[0051] The secondary sealant preferably contains polysulfides, silicones, silicone rubber, polyurethanes, polyacrylates, copolymers, and / or mixtures thereof. Such substances exhibit very good adhesion to glass, so the outer seal ensures secure bonding of the panes. The thickness of the outer seal made of secondary sealant is preferably 2 mm to 30 mm, particularly preferably 3 mm to 10 mm. The secondary sealant preferably sits flush with the peripheral edge of the first pane and the second pane.

[0052] Preferably, after the cavity between the panes has been filled with the fire protection compound, the secondary sealant is introduced into the outer cavity between the panes on the surface of the surrounding sealant facing the environment.

[0053] Various types of fire-resistant glass are known in the prior art that use flowable fire-protection compounds, for example, water-based alkali silicates or water-based hydrogels. Such fire-protection compounds, after curing, produce a fire-protection layer that becomes cloudy, intumescent, heat-insulating, and / or cooling under the influence of heat. The flowable fire-protection compound preferably comprises at least alkali silicates and at least one hardener. After the fire-protection compound has cured, a fire-protection layer is thus formed. Such fire-protection layers exhibit good transparency under normal conditions, while in the event of a fire, a heat-protection effect is achieved through clouding and foaming of the fire-protection layer. Intumescent fire-protection layers are also known as intumescent fire-protection layers and are known to those skilled in the art.A wide variety of intumescent or non-intumescent fire protection compounds known to those skilled in the art can be used as the fire protection layer. The fire protection layer preferably comprises polysilicates or hydrogels. Examples of suitable fire protection compounds include the alkali silicates mentioned in EP 2516568 B1 and the hydrogels described in DE 102005018842 A1. Alkali silicate gels according to EP 3224045 A1 have proven particularly advantageous. Hydrogels have proven particularly advantageous in implementing the invention due to the good flowability of such fire protection compounds.

[0054] In one possible embodiment of the method, fire-resistant glazing comprises additional panes extending beyond the first and second panes, which are also connected to these panes via a spacer frame, similar to the connection between the first and second panes. In this way, two or more chambers are formed in the spaces between the panes, which are to be filled with fire-protection compound. The chambers can be filled sequentially or simultaneously. Such multi-chamber glazings, also known as multi-layer modules, are preferably filled in such a way that all chambers are filled simultaneously. This is advantageous in terms of a short cycle time, and the plane parallelism of the glass panes is ensured by simultaneously filling adjacent chambers.

[0055] The first pane and / or the second pane, as well as any additional panes, preferably contain glass, particularly preferably quartz glass, borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass, and / or mixtures thereof. The panes may also comprise thermoplastic polymeric panes. Thermoplastic polymeric panes preferably comprise polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or copolymers and / or mixtures thereof.

[0056] The first pane and the second pane have a thickness of 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 1 mm to 10 mm, particularly preferably 2 mm to 6 mm, although the two panes may also have different thicknesses. Additional panes of fire-resistant glazing are preferably also within these thickness ranges.

[0057] The first pane, the second pane, and optionally additional panes can be made of single-pane safety glass, thermally or chemically toughened glass, float glass, extra-clear low-iron float glass, tinted glass, or laminated safety glass containing one or more of these components. The panes can have any desired additional components or coatings, such as low-E coatings or other solar control coatings.

[0058] The fire-resistant glazing according to the invention is preferably used as building glazing, facade glazing, partition wall, floor glazing, ceiling glazing, window or door glazing, as vehicle glazing or ship glazing, each individually or as part of a laminated glass or an insulating glazing.

[0059] Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for producing fire-resistant glazing comprising at least the steps of: a) providing a first pane and a second pane, b) attaching a spacer frame with at least one corner connector according to the invention circumferentially in the edge region between the first pane and the second pane by means of a primary sealant and producing a ventilation opening in the spacer frame, c) pressing the arrangement of the first pane, second pane and spacer frame together to form a space between the panes between the first pane, second pane and spacer frame, d) introducing a flowable fire protection compound through the recess of the corner connector according to the invention into the space between the panes, whereby air escapes through the ventilation opening, e) closing the ventilation opening and f) curing the flowable fire protection compound in the space between the panes to form fire-resistant glazing.

[0060] The filling process according to the invention enables the chamber to be filled with fire protection compound essentially without bubbles.

[0061] Optionally, the pressure in the space between the panes can be reduced by at least partially removing the air in the chamber by applying a negative pressure to the vent opening, whereby fire protection compound flows into the chamber through the corner connector according to the invention.

[0062] Manual handling of the glazing, such as tilting and swiveling it for even, bubble-free filling, is not required in the filling process according to the invention. Thus, such manual steps are eliminated while maintaining consistent product quality.

[0063] After the spacer frame is inserted using a primary sealant, the first and second panes are pressed together. Suitable presses, for example, for the production of insulating glazing, are known to those skilled in the art. After the assembly is pressed together, the space between the panes and the spacer forms a chamber that can be filled with fire protection compound.

[0064] In the next step, the chamber is filled with a fire protection compound. According to the state of the art, a lance is usually inserted into the chamber through a recess in the sealant bead, and the fire protection compound flowing from the lance is evenly distributed within the chamber by tilting the blank, whereby the air displaced by the fire protection compound escapes through the recess. The occurrence of air pockets is manually monitored by a production employee, and these are released if necessary by shaking the blank, for example by striking it with a rubber hammer. Using the method according to the invention, fire-resistant glazing of various geometries can be filled, whereby these have at least one corner connector according to the invention. The majority of fire-resistant glazing requested by customers has a rectangular geometry.If the fire-resistant glazing has multiple corners, the chamber is preferably filled via these corners, with the corner connector with backflow preventer according to the invention being provided at one corner and the vent opening at the diagonally opposite corner. This is advantageous in order to further facilitate the seamless filling of the corner areas with fire-resistant compound.

[0065] Preferably, the fire-resistant glazing is oriented during the filling process such that the distance between the corner connector with backflow preventer according to the invention and the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned is less than the distance between the ventilation opening and the floor surface. In other words, the corner connector according to the invention is located below the ventilation opening, whereby these do not have to lie within a line perpendicular to the floor surface. The glazing is thus arranged during the filling process such that the filling direction in which the fire-resistant compound flows in during the filling process has a directional component that is opposite to the weight force. In simple terms, the chamber is filled from bottom to top, with "bottom" referring to the edge of the glazing closest to the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned.This filling direction is particularly advantageous for removing air residue from the chamber to be filled. Filling from the top, on the other hand, would lead to increased air inclusions. The fire protection compound would be poured into an upper recess and flow downwards in the chamber, creating air turbulence and trapping air bubbles in the fire protection compound. This is prevented by the method according to the invention.

[0066] During the filling process, the blank is preferably positioned such that the surfaces of the first disc and the second disc form an angle of 10° to 90°, preferably 30° to 90°, to a plane parallel to the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned. In this way, air residues are effectively displaced, rise, and escape through the vent or are sucked away through it.

[0067] In step d), the fire protection compound is preferably introduced into the cavity between the panes via a pipe. The term "pipe" describes an elongated hollow body suitable for supplying the fire protection compound. The pipe can be designed, for example, with a rigid or flexible wall, with a round, oval, or square cross-section, and is placed against the recess of the corner connector according to the invention during the filling process, preferably inserted into the chamber through the backflow preventer of the corner connector. A filling lance is particularly preferably used. This is advantageous for ensuring clean, loss-free filling.

[0068] The pipe or filling lance for filling the chamber is in contact with a volume of fire protection compound and directs this into the chamber. The volume of fire protection compound for filling is preferably located in a storage container. Fire protection compound is fed from the storage container into the chamber until it is completely full. To ensure complete filling, overfilling the chamber is preferred, with the excess fire protection compound escaping from the vent opening preferably being returned to the storage container. Another preferred option is to monitor the fill level of the storage container. The volume of the chamber to be filled is calculated from the pane surfaces and the width of the spacer frame, which makes it possible to determine how much fire protection compound needs to be taken from the storage container. This method has the advantage that the chamber does not have to be overfilled.In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the storage container has a fill level sensor and / or is positioned on a scale. In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the fill level is monitored by a flow sensor installed between the storage container and the filling lance, for example, in a hose section or in the filling lance itself. Compared to overfilling the chamber, this eliminates the need to recirculate or dispose of excess fire protection compound escaping from the vent opening.

[0069] Preferably, the chamber is evacuated via the vent opening, for which embodiments of the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention are particularly suitable, the vent opening of which is integrated into a corner connector with a vent pipe. A negative pressure is applied to the vent pipe, for example by connecting the vent pipe to the supply line of a vacuum pump and extracting the gases in the chamber. The negative pressure to be set depends, for example, on the size of the pane and can also be adjusted during the filling process. For example, a lower negative pressure is generally required at the beginning of the filling process than towards the end. A negative pressure applied to the vent opening is particularly advantageous for preventing the panes from bulging during the filling process. Furthermore, the formation of bubbles is reduced.

[0070] The chamber filled with flowable fire protection compound is then subjected to a curing step, which hardens the flowable fire protection compound. For example, polymerization occurs during this process, resulting in the formation of a fire protection gel in the chamber. The method according to the invention is applicable to all fire protection compounds that can be processed in a flowable form during the production process and cure in a subsequent step.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the first pane and the second pane are fixed to one another during filling of the chamber. This is preferably done by fixing the surfaces of the first pane and the second pane facing away from the chamber. The surfaces of the first pane and the second pane facing away from the chamber represent the surfaces of the glazing facing the environment, which are thus accessible from the environment. The panes are fixed by means of measures known to those skilled in the art, such as plates, frames, rollers and / or suction devices. The glazing is preferably positioned on a frame, for example the pane holder of a continuous production line, wherein the surface of the first or second pane is fixed at least at certain points by the frame.The remaining exposed pane surface of the first or second pane is preferably fixed at least in place by a suction device placed on this pane surface. In this way, the first pane and the second pane are held rigidly to one another, preventing bulging or indentation of the panes during the filling process. Particularly preferably, the suction device placed on the pane surface is used to rotate the glazing into a preferred filling position before filling. Preferred filling positions are those already described, wherein in particular the corner with the corner connector according to the invention and the corner with the ventilation opening are arranged in opposite corners and the glazing is rotated such that the corner connector according to the invention forms the lowest point, i.e. represents the section of the glazing closest to the base surface of the filling system.

[0072] Preferably, the glazing is vibrated during and / or after filling with fire protection compound, in particular during filling, and in any case before the fire protection compound hardens. This releases any air bubbles present, causes them to rise upwards towards the vent opening, and are sucked away. Such additional measures for removing air bubbles are generally unnecessary, but can be useful for particularly large panes. In a preferred embodiment of the method, the glazing is vibrated by means of a vibration unit attached to a gripper arm. In particular, a vibration unit can be attached directly to the arm of a suction device used to hold a surface of the first pane or second pane in place.

[0073] In step d) of the process, the fire protection compound is preferably filled at a pressure higher than ambient pressure. This is advantageous for increasing the filling speed in the process, which can be particularly helpful for large pane dimensions. The fire protection compound is particularly preferably filled at a pressure above ambient pressure. The fire protection compound is preferably filled using a pump.

[0074] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to drawings and exemplary embodiments. The drawings are purely schematic representations and not to scale. The drawings do not limit the invention in any way.

[0075] They show:

[0076] Figures 1a, 1b show a schematic representation of a fire-resistant glazing with a corner connector according to the invention with a backflow preventer during the filling process with a flowable fire protection compound,

[0077] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a corner connector according to the invention in cross section with a duckbill valve inserted in a recess,

[0078] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a further embodiment of the corner connector according to the invention in cross section with a Phillips valve inserted in a recess,

[0079] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a top view of the corner connector according to the invention with fixing elements,

[0080] Figures 5 to 8 are schematic representations of various embodiments of the backflow preventers in the corner connector according to the invention,

[0081] Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a corner connector according to the invention with a non-return valve,

[0082] Figure 10 is a schematic representation of a profile strip of the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention, Figure 11 is a schematic representation of a fire-resistant glazing according to

[0083] Figures 1a and 1b, which is fixed on a production line by a robot arm and filled according to process step d),

[0084] Figure 12 shows a fire-resistant glazing according to the invention produced using the method according to the invention.

[0085] According to the figures, the plug-in legs are designed as plug-in legs, but a design as plug-on legs is also possible.

[0086] Figures 1a and 1b show a schematic representation of a fire-resistant glazing II during the filling process according to method step d) of the method according to the invention. Figure 1a shows a plan view, while Figure 1b shows a cross-section along the section line AA' according to Figure 1a. The fire-resistant glazing II comprises a first pane 13 and a second pane 14, which are connected to one another via a circumferential spacer frame 8 arranged between the panes 13, 14. The spacer frame 8 is bonded to the first pane 13 and the second pane 14 via a primary sealant, the spacer frame 8 being set back from the circumferential edge K of the first pane 13 and the second pane 14 by 5 mm in the direction of the surface center of the first pane 13 and the second pane 14. The spacer frame 8 and the panes 13, 14 enclose a chamber in the space 12 between the panes.The outer pane space 9 is located on the surface of the spacer frame 8 facing away from the pane space 12 and towards the surroundings. This space is enclosed on three sides by the first pane 13, the second pane 14 and the spacer frame 8 and is open to the surroundings on a fourth side. The fire-resistant glazing II has a rectangular geometry, with a corner connector I according to the invention having a backflow preventer 32 inserted into a recess 33 being inserted into the spacer frame 8 at one corner of the fire-resistant glazing II, and a corner connector 62 having a ventilation opening 60 and a ventilation pipe 61 mounted therein being inserted at the opposite corner.To fill the fire-resistant glazing II with a flowable fire-resistant compound 6a, a filling lance (not shown here) is inserted into the cavity 12 between the panes through the backflow preventer 32 of the corner connector I, whereby the flow direction of the fire-resistant compound 6a is indicated as flow direction F. The flowable fire-resistant compound 6a comprises hydrogels. The flow direction F of the two fluids, fire-resistant compound and air, is indicated by arrows. Figure 2 shows a corner connector I according to the invention with a recess 33 and a backflow preventer 32 inserted therein. The illustration is greatly simplified. Slats or retaining elements, such as those used to fix the corner connectors in a profile strip, are not shown. These can be added by a person skilled in the art as required. The corner connector I comprises two plug-in legs 31 which are connected to one another in the connection area 34.According to this embodiment, the two plug-in legs 31 enclose an angle a (alpha) of 90° and are designed as plug-in legs. The corner connector I has an outer surface 39 which, in the finished fire-resistant glazing II, faces the environment and an inner surface 41 which, in the finished fire-resistant glazing II, faces the inner cavity 12 between the panes. A recess 33 is integrated in the connecting region 34. A backflow preventer 32 is inserted into the recess 33. The backflow preventer 32 is a duckbill valve whose slotted opening projects into the cavity 12 between the panes. The duckbill valve is shown in detail in Figure 5. The plug-in legs 31 and the connecting region 34 are manufactured in one piece from a polymer using an injection molding process. The connecting region 34 protrudes compared to the plug-in legs 31.The overhang U between the outer surface 39 of the plug-in legs 31 and the outer surface 39 of the connecting area 34 is 2.5 mm. The connecting area 34 also protrudes slightly in relation to the side surfaces 40 of the plug-in legs 31 (not visible here, see Figure 4). The size of this overhang depends on the profile strip 1 to be used. Preferably, the profile strip 1 in the fire-resistant glazing II is flush with the side surfaces 40 of the connecting area 34. The protruding connecting area 34 has the additional advantage that it reinforces the connecting area 34, which contributes to increasing the stability of the connector I. The exact dimensions of the corner connector I depend on the profile strips 1 used. In the example, the length L of a plug-in leg is 3.2 cm, and the length E of the connecting area is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0087] Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the corner connector I according to the invention. This essentially corresponds to the embodiment of Figure 2, with the difference that a slit valve according to Figure 6 is inserted into the recess 33.

[0088] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a top view of the corner connector I according to the invention with fixing elements 42. The corner connector I essentially corresponds to that described in Figure 2, with two fixing elements 42 additionally mounted per plug-in leg 31, which extend from the connecting area 34 parallel to the outer surfaces 39 of the plug-in legs 31 in the direction of the end faces 35 of the plug-in legs 31. The corner connector I contains a backflow preventer according to one of Figures 5 to 8.

[0089] Embodiments of the backflow preventers 32 inserted into the recess 33 of the corner connector I according to Figures 2 to 4 are shown in Figures 5 to 8. The backflow preventers 32 as such are commercially available. The flow direction F of the backflow preventers 32 is indicated by an arrow. Figure 5 shows a duckbill valve 51. Due to the high restoring force of the slotted opening 59, this is particularly suitable as a backflow preventer 32. A filling lance is preferably inserted in the flow direction F through the duckbill valve 51 into the space between the panes 12. Figure 6 shows a slotted valve 52 with a cross-shaped slotted opening 59. When using the slotted valve 52, the flow direction F does not need to be observed. Furthermore, the slit valve 52 is well suited for inserting a filling lance through the slit opening 59. Figure 7 shows an umbrella check valve 53 comprising a base plate 53.1 and a flexible cover cap 53.2 and openings 53.3, which are provided below the cover cap 53.2 in the base plate, wherein a volume flow in the flow direction F through the openings 53.3 causes the cover cap 53.2 to flip from the closed state a) to the open state b). Figure 8 shows a valve cone 54 whose conical surface has a plurality of openings 54.1. A membrane 54.2 rests on the inner surface of the cone, which is pushed sideways by the incoming fluid when the valve cone 54 flows in the flow direction F.

[0090] Figure 9 shows a check valve 55, which is mounted as a backflow preventer 32 adjacent to the recess 33 on the inner surface 41 of a plug-in leg 31 of the corner connector I. A filling lance can be inserted through the check valve 55 in the flow direction F directly into the cavity 12 between the panes. In doing so, the check valve 55 is pushed to the side (state b)). After removal of the filling lance, the reset valve 55 returns to the closed position (state a)).

[0091] Figure 10 shows a perspective cross-section of an embodiment of a profile strip 1. The profile strip 1 comprises two parallel pane contact surfaces 2.1 and 2.2, which establish contact with the panes 13 and 14 of a fire-resistant glazing II. The pane contact surfaces 2.1 and 2.2 are connected via an outer wall 4 and an interior wall 3. The outer wall 4 runs essentially parallel to the interior wall 3. The profile strip 1 is made of a polymer and is additionally glass fiber reinforced and contains, for example, styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) and approximately 35 wt.% glass fiber. The profile strip 1 has a cavity 5, and the wall thickness of the polymer hollow profile 1 is, for example, 1 mm. The interior wall 3 is not continuous, so that the fire protection compound 6a can enter the cavity 5.Such C- or U-shaped profile strips are preferred because corner connectors with insertion legs can be easily inserted into the cavities of the profile strips and profile strips and corner connectors together form a spacer frame that is easy to handle during the manufacturing process.

[0092] Figure 11 shows a section of a production line 15 for the manufacture of fire-resistant glazing II as a schematic representation, in this case showing the filling of the fire-resistant glazing II with fire-resistant compound 6a. The fire-resistant glazing

[0093] 11 corresponds to that described in Figures 1a and 1b. In this section of the production line 15, the fire-resistant glazing II is grasped by a robot arm 16 with a suction device that rests against an exposed surface of one of the panes 13, 14. The fire-resistant glazing II is first rotated by the robot arm 16 so that the corner connector I is closest to the floor surface on which the production line 15 is arranged. A filling lance 17 is then inserted through the corner connector I into the space between the panes.

[0094] 12, and fire protection compound 6a is introduced through the filling lance 17, with air escaping from the cavity 12 via the corner connector 62 with vent pipe. The orientation of the fire-resistant glazing II according to Figure 11 is particularly advantageous for avoiding air pockets. The flow direction F of the fire protection compound 6a is indicated by an arrow. During the filling process, the panes 13, 14 are fixed between the robot arm 16 and the section of the production line 15 in such a way that bending of the panes during the filling process is prevented.

[0095] Figure 12 shows a fire-resistant glazing II according to the invention produced using the method according to the invention. The fire-resistant glazing II corresponds to that described in Figures 1a and 1b, wherein the cavity 12 between the panes was completely filled with fire-resistant compound 6a and cured. This results in the fire-resistant layer 6. The outer cavity 11 between the panes is sealed with polysulfide as a secondary sealant 10. List of reference symbols:

[0096] (I) Corner connectors

[0097] (II) Fire-resistant glazing

[0098] (I) Profile strip, spacer

[0099] (2.1) first disc contact surface

[0100] (2.2) second disc contact surface

[0101] (3) Interior wall, glazing interior surface

[0102] (4) Exterior wall

[0103] (5) Cavity

[0104] (6) Fire protection layer

[0105] (6a) Fire protection compound

[0106] (8) Spacer frame

[0107] (9) primary sealant

[0108] (10) secondary sealant

[0109] (II) outer inter-pane space

[0110] (12) Space between panes, chamber

[0111] (13) first disc

[0112] (14) second disc

[0113] (15) Production line

[0114] (16) Robot arm

[0115] (17) Filling lance

[0116] (31) Plug-in legs

[0117] (32) Backflow preventer

[0118] (33) Recess

[0119] (34) Connection area

[0120] (39) Outer surface

[0121] (40) Side surfaces

[0122] (41) Inner surface

[0123] (42) Fixing elements (51) Duckbill valve

[0124] (52) Slot valve

[0125] (53) Umbrella check valve

[0126] (53.1) Base plate

[0127] (53.2) flexible cover cap

[0128] (53.3) Openings

[0129] (54) Valve cone

[0130] (54.1) Openings

[0131] (54.2) Membran

[0132] (55) Check valve

[0133] (59) Slot opening

[0134] (60) Ventilation opening

[0135] (61) Ventilation pipe

[0136] (62) Corner connector with ventilation opening

[0137] K common circumferential edge of the first disc 1 and the second disc 2

[0138] F Flow direction

[0139] AA' section line

Claims

Patent claims 1. Corner connector (I) for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip in fire-resistant glazing, comprising two plug-in legs (31) suitable for plugging into or plugging onto a profile strip (1), a connecting area (34) connecting the two plug-in legs (31), an outer surface (39), two side surfaces (40) and an inner surface (41), wherein - a recess (33) is provided in the corner connector (I) which is suitable for creating a passage from the environment to the inner space between the panes (12) in a fire-resistant glazing (II), and - a backflow preventer (32) is inserted into the recess (33) or adjacent to the recess (33), which backflow preventer is suitable for allowing the flow of a flowable fire protection compound through the recess (33) from the environment into the space between the panes (12) and for preventing the backflow of a flowable fire protection compound through the recess (33) from the space between the panes (12) towards the environment.

2. Corner connector (I) according to claim 1, wherein the backflow preventer (32) is a slit valve, a duckbill valve, an umbrella check valve, a diaphragm check valve, a valve cone or a check valve.

3. Corner connector (I) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recess (33) is introduced into the connecting region (34) between the two plug-in legs (31).

4. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the recess (33) with backflow preventer (32) on a total area of ​​at least 0.5 mm 2 , preferably at least 1 mm 2 , particularly preferably at least 2 mm 2 , enables the flow of a flowable fire protection compound through the recess (33) from the environment into the space between the panes (12).

5. Fire-resistant glazing (II) at least comprehensive - a first disc (13) and a second disc (14), - a rotating disc arranged between the discs (13, 14) Spacer frame (8) comprising at least one profile strip (1) and at least one corner connector (I) according to one of claims 1 to 4, - an inner space between the panes (12) bounded by the spacer frame (8) and the two panes (13, 14), wherein - the at least two plug-in legs (31) of the corner connector (I) are plugged into or onto the ends of the at least one profile strip (1), and - a fire protection layer (6) is inserted in the inner space between the panes (12).

6. Fire-resistant glazing (II) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one profile strip (1) has at least one first pane contact surface (2.1); a second pane contact surface (2.2) arranged parallel thereto and an outer wall (4) which connects the pane contact surfaces (2.1, 2.2) to one another; and optionally has an interior wall (3), and wherein preferably the interior wall (3) of the at least one profile strip (1) is not continuous between the two pane contact surfaces (2.1, 2.2).

7. Fire-resistant glazing (II) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the fire-resistant layer (6) comprises at least one hydrogel.

8. Fire-resistant glazing (II) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the fire-resistant glazing (II) comprises at least one vent opening (60) which is suitable for allowing the escape of air during the filling process of the fire-resistant glazing (II) with a fire-protection compound (6a), and wherein the vent opening (60) is preferably arranged at the corner of the fire-resistant glazing (II) opposite the corner connector (I).

9. Fire-resistant glazing (II) according to claim 8, wherein the ventilation opening (60) is designed as an opening in the connection area of ​​a corner connector and preferably comprises a ventilation pipe which points from the corner connector towards the environment and particularly preferably the ventilation opening is formed by a recess (33) of a corner connector with a backflow preventer.

10. A method for producing fire-resistant glazing (II) according to one of claims 5 to 9, wherein a) a first pane (13) and a second pane (14) are provided, b) in the edge region between the first pane (13) and the second pane (14) a spacer frame (8) with at least one corner connector (I) is attached by means of a primary sealing means (9) and a ventilation opening (60) is provided in the spacer frame (8), c) the arrangement of the first pane (13), second pane (14), spacer frame (8) and sealant (9) is pressed together, a space (12) being created between the first pane (13), second pane (14) and spacer frame (8), d) a flowable fire protection compound (6a) is introduced into the space (12) between the panes through the recess (33) of the corner connector (I), the air escaping from the space (12) through the vent opening (60), e) the vent opening (60) is closed and f) the flowable fire protection compound (6a) is cured in the space (12) between the panes and the fire-resistant glazing (II) is obtained.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the vent opening (60) is introduced at the corner opposite the corner connector (I) with backflow preventer (32).

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein in step d) the surface of the first disc (13) and the second disc (14) form an angle of 10° to 90°, preferably 30° to 90°, particularly preferably 40° to 85°, to the bottom surface of the filling system and the distance of the corner connector (I) to the bottom surface of the filling system is less than the distance of the vent opening (60) to the bottom surface of the filling system.

13. Method according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the fire protection compound (6a) in step d) is introduced into the space between the panes (12) via a pipe (8), preferably via a filling lance, and the filling lance is particularly preferably introduced into the space between the panes (12) through the recess of the corner connector (I).

14. Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the fire protection compound (6a) is filled in step d) under a pressure which is higher than the ambient pressure.

15. Method according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the flowable fire protection compound (6a) comprises at least hydrogels and at least one hardener.

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