Glazing

Abstract

Glazings comprising first and second channel-section glazing elements are described. A plastic inner glazing element comprising a central portion having a thickness aligned with a first axis and first and second edge portions running along opposite sides of the central portion is located between the first and second channel-section glazing elements. The first edge portion has a first side portion facing a first flange of the first channel-section glazing element and a second side portion integrally formed with the central portion. The first and second side portions of the first edge portion extend between webs of the first and second channel-section glazing elements by a respective first and second distance running respectively along an axis parallel to the first axis, the first distance being greater than the second distance. There is an air-space between the central portion and the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element.

Description

[0001] GLAZING

[0002] The present invention relates to a glazing having first and second channel-section glazing elements with an inner glazing element made of plastic therebetween.

[0003] Glazing units comprising three spaced apart panes of glazing material are known in the art, such glazing units often being referred to as triple glazed windows. In such triple glazed windows each of the glazing elements, or panes, are usually planar sheets of glass.

[0004] Glazing elements are known having a profiled or channel-section configuration. A profiled or channel-section glazing element is made from a sheet or ribbon of glass and has at least one lateral edge bent upwards during manufacture. Usually both lateral edges are bent upwards during manufacture. Examples of making a channel-section glazing element are described in DE1496047A1. The upward facing portions of the channel-section glazing element are known in the art as “flanges” and the lower portion connected to the or each flange is known as a “web”. Since channel-section glazing elements are made from a continuous glass sheet or ribbon and cut to the desired length, the flanges are a continuation of the web and are at an angle thereto. Usually, the flanges are at an angle of substantially 90° to the web. A channel-section glazing element having two lateral flanges is often referred to as a U- profile glazing element because the channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped cross section.

[0005] EP 0 742 324 Al describes a facade consisting of two rows of U-shaped glass sections, one row forming the inner skin with its bases and the other similarly forming the outer skin, such that the legs of the U's fit one inside the other. Cavities are filled with thermal insulation and a heat reflecting layer is provided on one of the outwards facing surfaces of the skins and / or the thermal insulation. The U- sections may be positioned so that they abut each other and the legs of the U-sections are joined with PVC sealing strips and / or silicone sealing members. Such glazing units have limited visible transparency due to the nature of the thermal insulation. Furthermore, the facades having three U- sections described in EP 0742 324 Al are relatively thick (the thickness of such a facade being the distance between the surface facing the exterior of a building in which the facade is installed and the surface facing the interior of the building in which the facade is installed).

[0006] W02005 / 033432A1 describes a translucent glazing panel comprising: (a) a thermoplastic panel comprising (i) an outer wall having an inner surface defining an internal channel, the internal channel having an internal volume, and (ii) at least one inner wall protruding from the inner surface into the internal channel, and (b) hydrophobic aerogel particles, the hydrophobic aerogel particles being disposed within the channel. Such glazing panels are translucent and are not able to be used in applications requiring low haze.

[0007] Glazings including glass sheets between channel-section glazing elements are described in W02015 / 007899A2. The glass sheets are held in position using clips.

[0008] Glazings including at least one row of profiled glass sheets arranged next to one another, each with at least one web and at least one flange, and at least one multiple web plate made of plastic, are described in EP3260621B1. The multiple web plates made of plastic are attached to a separate holding device and are not attached to the profiled glass sheets.

[0009] US2005 / 0074566A1 describes a translucent glazing panel.

[0010] Glazings including channel-section glazing elements are also described in CN113565239A, CN209114716U, CN2692238Y, DE102015100962B3, WO2023 / 166053A1 and WO2024 / 028335A1.

[0011] There is a need for an improved glazing unit that can be used in glazing applications where increased energy performance is required. The ability to retrofit such glazing units into existing glazing systems is desirable. The ability to be able to simplify the production and installation of such glazing units is also desirable.

[0012] Accordingly, the present invention provides a glazing comprising a first channel-section glazing element and a second channel-section glazing element, the first and second channel-section glazing elements each comprising a web and a first flange, the first flange running along a first lateral edge of the respective web, the first and second channel-section glazing elements being arranged such that the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the second channel-section glazing element and the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element faces the first channel-section glazing element, wherein an inner glazing element made of plastic is located between the first and second channel-section glazing elements, the inner glazing element comprising a central portion, a first edge portion running along a first side of the central portion and a second edge portion running along a second side of the central portion, the first side of the central portion being opposite the second side of the central portion, wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is adjacent the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element, the central portion having a thickness, the thickness of the central portion being aligned with a first axis; wherein the first edge portion has a first side portion facing the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element and a second side portion integrally formed with the central portion; the first side portion of the first edge portion extending between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a first distance, the first distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis; the second side portion of the first edge portion extending between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a second distance, the second distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis; wherein the first distance is greater the second distance; there being an air-space between the central portion and the web of the first channel-section glazing element and / or the web of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0013] The first edge portion of the inner glazing element has a non-rectangular cross-section.

[0014] Within the context of the present invention, the terms “rectangular” includes shapes having four sides and four comers each having an angle of 90°. This includes rectangular shapes wherein two of the four sides are opposing sides each have a first length, and the other two of the four sides are opposing sides each have a second length, the first length being different to the second length. Also, included are square shapes wherein all four sides have the same length. Accordingly, a cross-section that is “non- rectangular” does not have the aforementioned characteristics.

[0015] As is readily apparent, the first side portion of the first edge portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the first edge portion.

[0016] Preferably the thickness of the central portion is unform between the first and second sides of the central portion.

[0017] Preferably the cross-section of the first edge portion lies in a plane that is perpendicular to the web of the first channel-section glazing element and perpendicular to the flange of the first channelsection glazing element.

[0018] The web of the first channel-section glazing element lies in a first plane.

[0019] The first flange of the first channel-section glazing element lies in a second plane.

[0020] The cross section of the first edge portion lies in a third plane that is perpendicular to the first plane.

[0021] A glazing according to the present invention has an improved energy performance when compared to the same glazing without the inner glazing element. The inner glazing element helps improve the thermal insulation properties of the glazing. In particular the U-value is improved. The livable may be determined in accordance with a recognised international standard such as BS EN 673:2011.

[0022] Preferably the central portion comprises a first wall facing the web of the first channel-section glazing element and a second wall facing the web of the second channel-section glazing element, the first wall of the central portion being spaced apart from the second wall of the central portion by a spacing. Preferably the spacing is the same as the thickness.

[0023] Preferably the glazing is arranged such that there is a first air-space between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0024] Preferably the glazing is arranged such that there is a second air-space between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0025] Preferably the glazing is arranged such that there is a first air-space between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the first channel-section glazing element and a second airspace between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the second channelsection glazing element.

[0026] Preferably the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a first extension portion, the first extension portion being positioned between an end of the first flange of the first channel section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element. For the avoidance of doubt, the end of the flange is at an opposite end of the flange to the web.

[0027] Preferably the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a first extension portion and a second extension portion, the first extension portion being positioned between the end of the first flange of the first channel section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element and the second extension portion being positioned such that the first flange of the first channel section glazing element is between the second extension portion and the first side of the first edge portion.

[0028] Preferably the first extension portion is integrally formed with the first edge portion.

[0029] Preferably the second extension portion is integrally formed with the first extension portion.

[0030] Preferably the first extension portion and the second extension portion are configured as a first connection portion, wherein the first connection portion of the inner glazing element is attached to the first flange of first channel-section glazing element.

[0031] Preferably the first flange of first channel-section glazing element has a first gasket on at least a portion thereof, and the first connection portion of the inner glazing element is attached to the first flange of first channel-section glazing element using the first gasket.

[0032] Preferably the second edge portion has a first side portion facing the first flange of the second channel-section glazing and a second side portion integrally formed with the central portion.

[0033] Preferably the first side portion of the second edge portion extends between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a third distance, the third distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis.

[0034] Preferably the second side portion of the second edge portion extends between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a fourth distance, the fourth distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis.

[0035] Preferably the third distance is greater the fourth distance.

[0036] Preferably the second edge portion has a non-rectangular cross-section, the cross-section of the second edge portion being coplanar with the cross-section of the first edge portion.

[0037] Preferably the first side portion of the second edge portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the second edge portion.

[0038] Preferably the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a third extension portion, the third extension portion being positioned between the end of the second flange of the second channel section glazing element and the web of the first channel section glazing element.

[0039] Preferably the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a third extension portion and a fourth extension portion, the third extension portion being positioned between the end of the second flange of the second channel section glazing element and the web of the first channel section glazing element and the fourth extension portion being positioned such that the second flange of the second channel section glazing element is between the fourth extension portion and the first side of the second edge portion.

[0040] Preferably the third extension portion is integrally formed with the second edge portion.

[0041] Preferably the fourth extension portion is integrally formed with the third extension portion. Preferably the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion are configured as a second connection portion, wherein the second connection portion of the inner glazing element is attached to the second flange of second channel-section glazing element.

[0042] Preferably the third and / or fourth extension portion has a multi-wall construction comprising at least a first and a second wall with at least one air space therebetween.

[0043] Preferably the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises at least a first wall spaced apart from a second wall, the first and second walls of the central portion of the inner glazing element have at least one space therebetween.

[0044] Preferably the central portion of the inner glazing element has a multi-wall construction comprising a first wall facing the web of the first channel-section glazing element and a second wall facing the web of the second channel-section glazing element, there being a plurality of air-spaces between the first and second walls of the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0045] Such multi-wall construction plastic sheets are well known in the art, see for example DE2722817A1, EP0050462A1, DE202011003120U1, DE202011109408U1 and DE202011106659U1.

[0046] Preferably the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, more preferably wherein the first channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile.

[0047] In embodiments wherein the first and / or second edge portion of the inner glazing element has a first extension portion, preferably the first extension portion has a multi-wall construction comprising at least a first and a second wall with at least one air space therebetween.

[0048] Preferably the first extension portion is adhesively attached to a flange of a channel-section glazing element.

[0049] In some embodiments the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channelsection glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0050] Preferably the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element face away from the web of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0051] In some embodiments the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channelsection glazing element.

[0052] Preferably the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element face away from the web of the second channel-section glazing element. In embodiments where the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channelsection glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, preferably the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element is received in the space between the first and second flanges of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first flange of the first and second channel-section glazing elements each has a respective first end opposite the respective web thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first end of the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the first end of the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first flange of the first and second channel-section glazing elements each has a respective first end opposite the respective web thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first end of the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the first end of the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element, and the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element; and the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element; an end of the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces an end of the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and an end of the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces an end of the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0055] In some embodiments wherein the first edge portion has a first extension portion, preferably the first extension portion of the inner glazing element is in mechanical communication with at least one of the first flanges of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0056] In some embodiments wherein the second edge portion has a third extension portion, preferably the third extension portion of the inner glazing element is in mechanical communication with at least one of the second flanges of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0057] In some embodiments the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channelsection glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the first channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile; and the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the second channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile; and an end of the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces an end of the first flange of the second channel- section glazing element and an end of the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces an end of the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0058] In some embodiments the glazing further comprises a third channel-section glazing element comprising a web and a first flange running along a first lateral edge thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the web of the third channelsection glazing element; the first flange of the second and third channel-section glazing elements faces the web of the first channel-section glazing element, and wherein the first flange of the third channelsection glazing element is between the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element and the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0059] Preferably the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, more preferably wherein the first channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile; and wherein the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element, more preferably wherein the second channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile; wherein the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the web of the second channelsection glazing element.

[0060] Preferably the first edge portion comprises a first extension portion in mechanical communication with the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and / or the first flange of the third channel-section glazing element.

[0061] Preferably the first extension portion is in mechanical communication with the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and / or the first flange of the third channel-section glazing element.

[0062] Preferably the glazing further comprises a fourth channel-section glazing element comprising a web and a first flange running along a first lateral edge thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element faces the web of the second channel-section glazing element; and wherein the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element is between the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0063] Preferably the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a third extension portion and wherein the third extension portion of the inner glazing element is in mechanical communication with the second flanges of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0064] Preferably the third extension portion of the inner glazing element is in mechanical communication with the second flanges of the first and second channel section glazing elements. Preferably the third extension portion is in mechanical communication with the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element.

[0065] Preferably the third extension portion is in mechanical communication with the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element.

[0066] Other embodiments have other preferably features.

[0067] Preferably the central portion of the inner glazing element is inclined relative to the webs of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0068] Preferably the central portion of the inner glazing element is parallel relative to the webs of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0069] Preferably the central portion comprises a first wall facing the web of the first channel-section glazing element, and the first wall of central portion is parallel to the web of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0070] Preferably the central portion comprises a second wall facing the web of the second channelsection glazing element, and the second wall of the central portion is parallel to the web of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0071] Preferably the first and / or second channel-section glazing elements comprise glass, more preferably a glass having a soda-lime-silica glass composition.

[0072] A typical soda-lime-silica glass composition is (by weight), SiC>2 69 - 74 %; AI2O30 - 3 %;

[0073] Na2O 10 - 16 %; K2O 0 - 5 %; MgO 0 - 6 %; CaO 5 - 14 %; SO30 - 2 %; Fe2O30.005 - 2 %. The glass may also contain other additives, for example, refining aids, which would normally be present in an amount of up to 2 %.

[0074] Preferably the inner glazing element is extruded plastic.

[0075] Preferably the inner glazing element is made from polycarbonate, acrylic or polyester.

[0076] When present, the first and / or second and / or third and / or fourth extension portion has a thickness between 0.5mm and 50mm, more preferably between 0.5mm and 40mm, or 30mm, or 20mm, or 10mm.

[0077] The first flange of the first channel-section glazing element connects with the web of the first channel-section glazing element at a first comer portion of the first channel-section glazing element and the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element connects with the web of the second channel-section glazing element at a first comer portion of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0078] Preferably the central portion of the inner glazing element extends between the

[0079] Other embodiments have other preferable features.

[0080] Preferably the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange mnning along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element. Preferably the first and second flanges of the first channel-section glazing element both project in the same direction away from the web. Preferably the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element. Preferably the first and second flanges of the second channel-section glazing element both project in the same direction away from the web.

[0081] The web of the first channel-section glazing element has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface. Preferably at least a portion of the first and / or second major surface of the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a coating thereon. Preferably the coating is a low emissivity coating. Preferably the coating is a solar control coating.

[0082] The web of the second channel-section glazing element has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface. Preferably at least a portion of the first and / or second major surface of the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a coating thereon. Preferably the coating is a low emissivity coating. Preferably the coating is a solar control coating.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment the glazing the first and second channel-section glazing elements each comprise a web, a first flange and a second flange, the first flange running along a first lateral edge of the respective web and the second flange running along a second lateral edge of the respective web, the first lateral edge of the web being opposite the second lateral edge of the web, the first and second channel-section glazing elements being arranged such that the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element. In this arrangement preferably the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element is coplanar with the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element is coplanar with the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0084] Preferably the inner glazing element extends between the first and second flanges of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0085] Preferably the inner glazing element extends between the first and second flanges of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0086] Preferably the first and second channel-section glazing elements are separated by a gap and the inner glazing element is positioned in the gap.

[0087] In embodiments where the first channel-section glazing element has first and second flanges, preferably the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element is received in the space between the first and second flanges of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0088] In some embodiments the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element is curved or corrugated, for example as in the channel-section glazing elements described in W02008068324A1. In embodiments wherein the web is not planar (i.e., non-planar), the web lies in a plane being an average surface of the non-planar web.

[0089] In other embodiments, the first channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass and not thermally toughened glass, the second channel section glazing element is made of annealed glass and not thermally toughened glass and the glass glazing element is made of toughened glass and not annealed glass.

[0090] In other embodiments, the first channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass and not thermally toughened glass, the second channel section glazing element is made of annealed glass and not thermally toughened glass and the sheet of glass glazing is made of annealed glass and not thermally toughened glass.

[0091] Glazings in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention have other preferable features.

[0092] Preferably the inner glazing element is monolithic.

[0093] Preferably the first and / or second channel-section glazing element is optically transparent.

[0094] Preferably the first and / or second channel-section glazing element is laminated.

[0095] Preferably the first and / or second channel-section glazing element is coated over at least a portion thereof to provide the respective channel-section glazing element with a region having a different colour in reflected or transmitted light compared to the uncoated channel-section glazing element. Such a coating may be optically opaque. Suitably the coating is a paint.

[0096] Preferably the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element has a thickness between 4mm and 12mm, more preferably between 5mm and 8mm.

[0097] Preferably the or each flange of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element has a thickness of between 4mm and 12mm, more preferably between 5mm and 8mm.

[0098] Preferably the thickness of the web of the first channel-section glazing element is the same as the thickness of the or each flange of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0099] Preferably the thickness of the web of the second channel-section glazing element is the same as the thickness of the or each flange of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0100] Suitable coatings that may be useful with glazings according to the present invention include low- emissivity coatings, conductive coatings, and solar control coatings. A low emissivity coating is a coating which when applied to clear, 3mm thick float glass, results in the coated glass having an emissivity in the range of 0.05 to 0.45, the actual value being measured in accordance with EN 12898 (a published standard of the European Association of Flat Glass Manufacturers). Suitably a low emissivity coating comprises at least one layer comprising tin oxide.

[0101] Typical solar control coatings comprise layers of silver or tin oxide and control the amount of heat absorbed through the coated glass. Solar control and low emissivity coatings may also be electrically conductive, and so not only provide functionality to the glass in terms of emissivity and heat transmission but can form an electrically conductive substrate for mounting electrically conductive devices. Such coatings may be applied using techniques known in the art, for example atmospheric pressure chemical vapour deposition or spray pyrolysis.

[0102] When the first and / or second channel-section glazing element has two flanges, preferably the thickness of each flange is the same.

[0103] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a central portion having a multi-wall construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the central portion has a thickness less than about 5mm and / or a thickness greater than 0.05mm. The thickness of at least one of the walls of the central portion may be between 0.5mm and 3mm.

[0104] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a first extension portion having a multiwall construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the first extension portion has a thickness less than about 5mm and / or a thickness greater than 0.05mm. The thickness of at least one of the first extension portion may be between 0.5mm and 3mm.

[0105] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a third extension portion having a multiwall construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the third extension portion has a thickness less than about 5mm and / or a thickness greater than 0.05mm. The thickness of at least one of the third connection portion may be between 0.5mm and 3mm.

[0106] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a central portion having a multi-wall construction, preferably the central portion has a thickness between 5mm and 500mm, or 400mm, or 300mm, or 200mm, or 100mm. The central portion may have less than 50 walls extending along a first axis, the first axis preferably being parallel to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element. The central portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element.

[0107] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a first extension portion having a multiwall construction, preferably the first extension portion has a thickness between 1mm and 200mm. The first extension portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a first axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element. The first extension portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element.

[0108] In embodiments where the inner glazing element has a third extension portion having a multiwall construction, preferably the third extension portion has a thickness between 1mm and 200mm. The third extension portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a first axis, the first axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element. The third extension portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first and / or second channel-section glazing element. In embodiments where the glazing is arranged such that there is a first space between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the first channel-section glazing element and a second space between the central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the second channel-section glazing element, the webs of the first and second channel-section glazing elements are spaced apart by a spacing and the central portion has a thickness less than the spacing between the webs of the first and second channel-section glazing elements.

[0109] Preferably the central portion has a thickness that is less than 90% of the spacing between the webs of the first and second channel-section elements, more preferably less than 80%, or 70% or 60%, or 50%, or 40%, or 30%, or 20%, or 10%, or 5% of the spacing between the webs of the first and second channel-section elements.

[0110] Preferably the central portion has a thickness that is at least 2% or 3% or 4% of the spacing between the webs of the first and second channel-section elements.

[0111] Preferably the central portion has a thickness between 0.5cm and 50cm, more preferably between 0.5cm and 40cm, or 30cm, or 20cm, or 10cm, or 5cm.

[0112] Glazings in accordance with the present invention may be retrofit into existing facades comprising a plurality of channel-section glazing elements.

[0113] The invention will now be described with reference to the following figures (not to scale) in which,

[0114] Figure 1 is an isometric projection of a channel-section glazing element having only one flange continuous with a web;

[0115] Figure 2 is an isometric projection of a channel-section glazing element having a web and two flanges continuous with the web;

[0116] Figure 3 is a front view of a part of a facade for a building comprising four channel-section glazing elements;

[0117] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a glazing according to the present invention;

[0118] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of an inner glazing element for use in the present invention;

[0119] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a glazing according to the present invention;

[0120] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a facade comprising three glazings of the type shown in figure 6;

[0121] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of another glazing according to the present invention;

[0122] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of another glazing according to the present invention;

[0123] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a facade comprising three glazings of the type shown in figure 9; Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of another inner glazing element for use in the present invention;

[0124] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of another inner glazing element for use in the present invention; and Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another glazing according to the present invention incorporating the inner glazing element shown in figure 12.

[0125] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of one type of channel-section glazing element 2 that may be used in making a glazing in accordance with the present invention. The channel-section glazing element 2 has a flange 2a and a web 2c integrally formed therewith. The flange 2a is continuous with the web 2c and the channel-section glazing element 2 has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1. The width 7 of the web may be many cm, whereas the length 6 of the web may be many tens of cm, up to several meters.

[0126] The flange 2a has a first major surface 2d and an opposing second major surface 2e (not indicated in the figure). The web 2c has a first major surface 2f and an opposing second major surface 2g (not indicated in the figure).

[0127] The flange 2a is substantially perpendicular to the web 2c. In this example the web 2c has a thickness of 7mm and the flange 2a also has a thickness of 7mm.

[0128] With reference to the co-ordinate system shown, the web 2c is parallel to the plane x-z. The flange 2a is parallel to the plane y-z. When viewed along the z-axis, the channel-section glazing element 2 has an “L” cross-sectional profile.

[0129] Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of another type of channel-section glazing element 12 that may be used in making a glazing in accordance with the present invention.

[0130] The channel-section glazing element 12 has a first flange 12a, a second flange 12b and a web 12c. The flanges 12a, 12b are continuous (so integrally formed) with the web 12c and the channelsection glazing element 12 has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1. The width 17 of the web may be many centimetres, whereas the length 16 of the web may be many tens of centimetres, up to several metres, for example 3m to 10m.

[0131] The first flange 12a has a first major surface 12d and an opposing second major surface 12e (not indicated in the figure). The second flange 12b has a first major surface 12h (not indicated in the figure) and an opposing second major surface 12i. The web 12c has a first major surface 2f and an opposing second major surface 12g (not indicated in the figure). The surface 12d of the first flange 12a faces the surface 12h of the second flange 12b.

[0132] The flanges 12a, 12b are each substantially perpendicular to the web 12c. In this example the web 12c has a thickness of 7mm and the flanges 12a, 12b each have a thickness of 7mm.

[0133] With reference to the co-ordinate system shown, the web 12c is parallel to the plane x-z. The flanges 12a, 12b are parallel to the plane y-z. When viewed along the z-axis, the channel-section glazing element 12 has a “U” cross-sectional profile.

[0134] The description of the channel-section glazing elements 2, 12 may be used in relation to the channel-section glazing elements described hereinafter.

[0135] Figure 3 shows a front view of part of a facade 9 for a building comprising four channel-section glazing elements of the type described with reference to figure 1 or figure 2. With reference to figure 1 and figure 2, the facade is viewed in the direction of the y-axis.

[0136] As is known in the art, each channel-section glazing element 2 or 12 is arranged vertically in a supporting frame or mounting frame (not shown). For each channel-section glazing element 2 or 12 in the facade there may be suitable sealant material in between adjacent longitudinal edges. The facade 9 may alternatively comprise horizontally orientated channel-section glazing elements.

[0137] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a glazing 21 in accordance with the present invention. With reference to figure 1, this is a view in the direction of the z-axis.

[0138] The glazing 21 has a first channel-section glazing element 22 of annealed glass. The first channel-section glazing element 22 has a flange 22a and a web 22c. The flange 22a is continuous with the web 22c and the first channel-section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1.

[0139] The flange 22a is substantially perpendicular to the web 22c. The web 2c has a thickness of 7mm. The flange 22a has a thickness of 7mm.

[0140] The glazing 21 also has a second channel-section glazing element 24 of annealed glass. The second channel-section glazing element 24 has a flange 24a and a web 24c. The flange 24a is continuous with the web 24c and the first channel-section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1.

[0141] The flange 24a is substantially perpendicular to the web 24c. The web 24c has a thickness of 7mm. The flange 24a has a thickness of 7mm.

[0142] The second channel-section glazing element 24 has substantially the same dimensions as the first channel-section glazing element 22.

[0143] Both channel-section glazing elements 22, 24 are made of soda-lime-silica glass.

[0144] The first and second channel-section glazing elements are arranged such that the flange 22a of the first channel-section glazing element faces 22 faces the second channel-section glazing element 24, and the flange 24a of the second channel-section glazing element 24 faces the first channel-section glazing element 22. In this arrangement the inner facing surfaces of the channel-section glazing elements 22, 24 define a cavity.

[0145] There may be a low emissivity coating on a surface of the web 22c and / or 24c facing into the cavity.

[0146] In accordance with the present invention an inner glazing element 26 made of plastic having a central portion 26a and a first edge portion 26b and a second edge portion 26c integrally formed with the central portion on opposing sides thereof is located in the cavity defined by the inner facing surfaces of the channel-section glazing elements 22, 24. The inner glazing element 26 is shown in more detail in figure 5.

[0147] With reference to figures 4 and 5, the first edge portion 26b is adjacent to the flange 22a and has a first side facing the flange 26b. The second edge portion 26c is adjacent to the flange 24a and has a first side facing the flange 24a.

[0148] The first edge portion 26b may be in contact with the flange 22a. The first edge portion 26b may be attached to the flange 22a, for example by a suitable gasket over the end of the flange 22a, and / or using a suitable adhesive. The second edge portion 26c may in contact with the flange 24a. The second edge portion 26c may be attached to the flange 24a, for example by a suitable gasket over the flange 24a, and / or using a suitable adhesive.

[0149] In the cross-sectional view shown, which is in plane x-y of figures 1 and 2, the first and second edge profiles of the inner glazing element 26 are non-rectangular.

[0150] The inner glazing element 26 has a length the same as that of the channel-section glazing elements 22, 24. The width of the inner glazing element 26 is about the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of the flanges 22a, 24a. The width of the inner glazing element 26 may be such that the inner glazing element is a snug fit between the flanges 22a, 24a.

[0151] With respect to the orientation of the glazing 21 as shown in figure 4, there is an upper space 27 between the web 24c and the central portion 26a of the inner glazing element 26 and a lower space 28 between the central portion 26a and the web 22c.

[0152] The inner glazing element 26 divides the cavity defined by the inner facing surfaces of the channel-section glazing elements 22, 24 into two airspaces. This improves noise insulation. The glazing 21 also has improved thermal insulation properties (compared to the same arrangement without the inner glazing element 26).

[0153] The central portion 26a has a rectangular cross-sectional profile. The central portion 26a has an upper wall 29a facing the web 24c and a lower wall 29b facing the web 22c. The upper and lower walls 29a, 29b are substantially parallel and define a thickness 30 of the central portion, which in this example is about 6mm.

[0154] The thickness 30 is aligned with a first axis (not shown).

[0155] The first edge portion 26b is integrally formed with the central portion 26a. The first edge portion 26b has a first side portion 32a and a second side portion 32b. In this example the first side portion 32a has two sub-portions 33a, 33b but may only have a single portion or more than two subportions.

[0156] The second edge portion 26c is integrally formed with the central portion 26a. The second edge portion 26c has a first side portion 34a and a second side portion 34b. In this example the second edge portion 26c is configured in the same way as the first edge portion 26b so that the first side portion 34a has two sub-portions 35a, 35b. Again, the first side portion 34a but may only have a single portion or more than two sub-portions.

[0157] The central portion 26a is between the second side portion 32b of the first edge portion 26b and the second side portion 34b of the second edge portion 26c.

[0158] The first side portion 32a extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a first distance 36a and the second side portion 32b extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a second distance 36b. Or put another way, the first edge portion 26b extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a first distance 36a on a first side and by a distance 36b on a second side, the first side facing the flange 22a and the second side being integrally formed with the central portion 26a. The first distance 36a is greater than the second distance 36b. In this example, the second distance 36b is the same as the thickness 30.

[0159] The distance 36a is aligned with an axis that is parallel to the first axis.

[0160] The distance 36b is aligned with an axis that is parallel to the first axis.

[0161] The second side portion 34a extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a first distance 37a and the second side portion 34b extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a second distance 37b. Or put another way, the second edge portion 26c extends between the webs 22c, 24c by a first distance 37a on a first side and by a distance 37b on a second side, the first side facing the flange 24a and the second side being integrally formed with the central portion 26a.

[0162] The first distance 37a is greater than the second distance 37b. In this example, the second distance 36b is the same as the thickness 30.

[0163] The distance 37a is aligned with an axis that is parallel to the first axis.

[0164] The distance 37b is aligned with an axis that is parallel to the first axis.

[0165] As shown in figure 5, the first edge portion 26b and the second edge portion 26c each have a cross-section that is non-rectangular. The first side portion 32a of the first edge portion 26b has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion 32b of the first edge portion 26b. The first side portion 34a of the second edge portion 26c has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion 34b of the second edge portion 26c.

[0166] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of another glazing 51 in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention. With reference to figure 2, this is a view in the direction of the z-axis.

[0167] The glazing 51 has a first channel-section glazing element 52 having a first flange 52a, a second flange 52b and a web 52c. The flanges 52a, 52b are continuous with the web 52c and the first channelsection glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1.

[0168] The glazing 51 also has a second channel-section glazing element 54 having a first flange 54a, a second flange 54b and a web 54c. The first channel-section glazing element 52 has the same dimensions as the second channel-section glazing element 54. This is advantageous because both the first and second channel-section glazing elements can be made during the same production run.

[0169] The first and second channel-section glazing elements are arranged such that the flange 54a faces the web 52c, and the flange 54a is between the flanges 52a, 52b. The outer surface of the flange 54a is spaced from the inner surface of the flange 52a by a sufficient amount such that a flange of another glazing may be located therebetween (as will be described with reference to figure 6).

[0170] As a consequence of the first and second channel-section glazing elements having the same dimensions and because the flange 52a is spaced from the flange 54a, the flange 52b is spaced from the flange 54b. The space between the outer surface of flange 52b and the inner surface of flange 54b is sufficient that a flange of an adjacent glazing may be located therebetween. The inner surfaces of the flanges 54a, 52b and portions of the inner surfaces of the webs 52c, 54c define a cavity in which is located an inner glazing element 26 as previously described.

[0171] The inner glazing element 26 is located between the web 52c and web 54c. There is an upper space 57 between the web 54c and the inner glazing element 26. There is a lower space 58 between the inner glazing element 56 and the web 52c.

[0172] The inner glazing element 26 as previously described and shown in figure 5 is located between the second flange 52b of the first channel-section glazing element 52 and the first flange 54a of the second channel-section glazing element 54. The first edge portion 26b of the inner glazing element 26 is adjacent to the flange 52b and the second edge portion 26c of the inner glazing element 26 is adjacent the flange54a.

[0173] As previously described, the inner glazing element 26 is made of polycarbonate and has a central portion 26a, a first edge portion 26b along a first edge of the central portion 26a and a second connection portion 26c along an opposite edge of the central portion 26a. The first and second edge portions 26b, 26c are integrally formed with the central portion 26a.

[0174] There may be a low emissivity coating or a solar control coating on the surface of the web 52c, 54c facing away from the inner glazing element 26.

[0175] The low emissivity coating may comprise tin oxide.

[0176] The central portion of the inner glazing element 26 has a first major surface facing web 54c and a second major surface facing web 52c.

[0177] The central portion 26a and / or either of the first and second edge portions 26b, 26c may have a multi-wall construction. Such a construction helps improve thermal insulation.

[0178] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of part of a facade 49 comprising a plurality of glazings 51. Each glazing 51 is positioned adjacent another glazing 51. To aid with the description of figure 7, three glazings 51, 51* and 51** are highlighted. Each glazing 51, 51* and 51* is the same as illustrated in figure 6, therefore each component part of glazing 51 * and 51 * * will be referenced in the same way as for glazing 51 except with the addition of a “*” or “**” respectively after each component part. For example, glazing 51 has a first channel-section glazing element 52 having a first flange 52a. Glazing 51* therefore has a first channel-section glazing element 52* having a first flange 52a*, and so on. Likewise, glazing 51** has a first channel-section glazing element 52** having a first flange 52a**, and so on.

[0179] When installing the glazing to make facade 49, the second flange 54b* of glazing 51* fits into the space between the second flange 52a and the second flange 54a of glazing 51 such that the flange 52a faces the web 54c* of the second channel-section glazing element 54* of glazing 51*. Consequently, the flange 54b* of the second channel-section glazing element 54* of the glazing 51* faces the web 52c of the first channel-section glazing element 52 of the glazing 51.

[0180] As shown in figure 7, the second flange 54b** of glazing 51** fits into the space between the second flange 52a* and the second flange 54a* of glazing 51* such that the flange 52a* faces the web 54c* * of the second channel-section glazing element 54* * of glazing 51**. Consequently, the flange 54b** of the second channel-section glazing element 54** of the glazing 51** faces the web 52c* of the first channel-section glazing element 52* of the glazing 51*.

[0181] The glazings 51 forming the facade 49 may be vertically or horizontally orientated.

[0182] For each glazing 51 in the facade there may be suitable sealant material in between adjacent longitudinal edges.

[0183] As shown in figure 7, the webs 52c of each first channel-section glazing element 52 of each respective glazing 51 form the outer surface of the facade i.e., that surface facing the outside of the building in which the facade is installed. The inner facing surface is formed by the webs 54c of the second channel-section glazing element 54 of each respective glazing 51.

[0184] Due to the inclusion of the inner glazing element in each glazing 51 (as described with reference to figure 6), the facade has improved thermal performance. The thermal performance can be improved further by the inclusion of a low emissivity coating on the inner glazing elements and / or the first and / or second channel-section glazing elements. In particular the glazing has an improved U-value.

[0185] Figure 8 shows another glazing 101 in accordance with the present invention. The glazing 101 comprises a first channel-section glazing element 102 and a second channel-section glazing element 104. Each channel section glazing element 102, 104 is of the type described with reference to figure 2.

[0186] The channel-section glazing element 102 has a web 102c with flanges 102a, 102b at lateral edges thereof.

[0187] The channel-section glazing element 104 has a web 104c with flanges 104a, 104b at lateral edges thereof.

[0188] The channel-section glazing elements 102, 104 have substantially the same dimensions.

[0189] An end of the flange 102a faces an end of the flange 104a and an end of the flange 102b faces an end of the flange 104b.

[0190] The inner facing surfaces of the channel-section glazing elements 102, 104 define a cavity. The cavity is split into two airspaces 107, 109 by an inner glazing element 106 located in the cavity. The inner glazing element is made of plastic and has a central portion 106a, a first edge portion 106b and a second edge portion 106c. In figure 8 dotted lines are used to indicate the ends of the central portion 106a.

[0191] In cross-section, neither of the first edge portion 106b or the second edge portion 106c has a rectangular cross-section. Other than the addition of the first extension portions 106b’ and 106c’, each of the first and second edge portions has a substantially semi -oval cross-section. Depending upon the spacing of the webs 102c, 104c and / or the spacing of the flanges 102a, 102b (or 104a, 104b) the first and second edge portions may have a semi-circular cross-section.

[0192] A first side portion of the first edge portion 106b faces the flanges 102b, 104b and extends between the webs 102c, 104c by a first distance, which in this example is essentially set by the spacing of the webs 102c, 104c. A second side portion of the first edge portion 106b is integrally formed with the central portion 106a and extends a second distance between the webs 102c, 104c, the second distance being less than the first distance. The first and second distances each extend along a respective axis, and the axes of the first and second distances are parallel to each other. As shown in figure 8, the first side portion of the first edge portion 106b is thicker than the second side portion of the first edge portion 106b. That is, a thickness of the first side portion of the first edge portion 106b is greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the first edge portion 106b.

[0193] A first side portion of the second edge portion 106c faces the flanges 102a, 104a and extends between the webs 102c, 104c by a third distance, which in this example is essentially set by the spacing of the webs 102c, 104c. A second side portion of the second edge portion 106c is integrally formed with the central portion 106a and extends a fourth distance between the webs 102c, 104c, the fourth distance being less than the third distance. The third and fourth distances each extend along a respective axis, and the axes of the third and fourth distances are parallel to each other. Due to the first and second edge portions 106b, 106c being configured the same way, the first distance is the same as the third distance and the second distance is the same as the fourth distance. The axes of the first, second, third and fourth distances are all parallel to each other. As shown in figure 8, the first side portion of the second edge portion 106c is thicker than the second side portion of the second edge portion 106c. That is, a thickness of the first side portion of the second edge portion 106c is greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the second edge portion 106c.

[0194] The inner glazing element 106 is made of polycarbonate and the central portion 106a has a multi -wall construction and the first and second edge portions 106b, 106c are integrally formed therewith.

[0195] Extending from the first edge portion 106b away from the central portion is a first extension portion 106b’. The first extension portion 106b’ is integrally formed with the first edge portion 106b but may be connected thereto using a suitable adhesive or mechanical connector. The first extension portion 106b’ is sized to fit between the space between the ends of the flanges 102b and 104b. This helps reduce thermal losses and prevents glass to glass contact at the flanges ends.

[0196] The second edge portion 106c is configured in the same way as the first edge portion 106b and has a respective first extension portion 106c’ between the ends of the flanges 102a, 102b.

[0197] Given that the two channel-section glazing elements 102, 104 are substantially the same, the central portion 106a is positioned equidistant between the webs 102c, 104c. As a consequence, the two air-spaces 107, 109 are the same volume.

[0198] The central portion 106a has a rectangular cross-section with an upper wall facing and being parallel to the web 104c and a lower wall facing and being parallel to the web 102c. The spacing of the upper and lower walls of the central portion 106a defines a thickness of the central portion and this may be 5mm and 50mm. The thickness of the central portion is aligned with an axis that is parallel to the axes of the first, second, third and fourth distances. With the first and second channel-section glazing elements 102, 104 arranged as shown in figure 8, it may be desirable to position the central portion 106a at other positions in the cavity by modifying the configuration of the inner glazing element 106 accordingly.

[0199] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of another glazing 131 in accordance with the present invention. With reference to figure 2, this is a view in the direction of the z-axis. The glazing 131 is similar to the glazing 51 of figure 6.

[0200] The glazing 131 has a first channel-section glazing element 132 having a first flange 132a, a second flange 132b and a web 132c. The flanges 132a, 132b are continuous with the web 132c and the first channel-section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1.

[0201] The glazing 131 also has a second channel-section glazing element 134 having a first flange 134a, a second flange 134b and a web 134c. The first channel-section glazing element 132 has the same dimensions as the second channel-section glazing element 134. This is advantageous because both the first and second channel-section glazing elements can be made during the same production run.

[0202] The first channel-section glazing element 132 and second channel-section glazing element 134 are each of the type as described in relation to figure 2.

[0203] The first and second channel-section glazing elements 132, 134 are arranged such that the flange 134b faces the web 132c, and the flange 134b is received in the space between the flanges 132a, 132b. The outer surface of the flange 134b is spaced from the inner surface of the flange 132b by a sufficient amount such that a flange of another glazing may be located therebetween (as shown in phantom).

[0204] As a consequence of the first and second channel-section glazing elements having the same dimensions and because the flange 132b is spaced from the flange 134b, the flange 132a is spaced from the flange 134a. The space between the outer surface of flange 132a and the inner surface of flange 134a is sufficient that a flange of an adjacent glazing may be located therebetween (as shown in phantom).

[0205] The inner surfaces of the flanges 132a, 134b and portions of the inner surfaces of the webs 132c, 134c define a cavity in which is located an inner glazing element 133. The inner glazing element 133 is made of suitable plastic such as polycarbonate or the like and has a central portion 133a and first and second edge portions 133b, 133c integrally formed with the central portion 133a.

[0206] The inner glazing element 133 is similar to the inner glazing element 26 previously described.

[0207] There is an upper space 137 between the web 134c and the central portion 133a. There is a lower space 138 between the central portion 133a and the web 132c.

[0208] There may be a low emissivity coating or a solar control coating on the surface of the web 132c, 134c facing the central portion 133a.

[0209] There may be a low emissivity coating or a solar control coating on the surface of the web 132c, 134c facing away from the central portion 133a.

[0210] The low emissivity coating may comprise tin oxide. There may be a solar control coating on the web 132c. There may be a solar control coating on the web 134c. There may be a solar control coating on the web 132c and a solar control coating on the web 134c.

[0211] The first edge portion 133b is adjacent the flange 132a and a first side portion thereof is in contact with the flange 132a. A second side portion of the first edge portion 133b is integrally formed with the central portion 133a. The first side portion of the first edge portion 133b is thicker than the second side portion of the first edge portion 133b. That is, a thickness of the first side portion of the first edge portion 133b is greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the first edge portion 133b.

[0212] The first edge portion 133b has extending from the first side portion thereof at an upper end a first extension portion 133b’. The first extension portion 133b’ is between the end of the first flange 132a of the first channel-section glazing element 132 and the web 134c of the second channel-section glazing element 134.

[0213] The second edge portion 133c is adjacent the flange 134b and a first side portion thereof is in contact with the flange 134b. A second side portion of the second edge portion 133c is integrally formed with the central portion 133a. The first side portion of the second edge portion 133c is thicker than the second side portion of the second edge portion 133c. That is, a thickness of the first side portion of the second edge portion 133c is greater than a thickness of the second side portion of the second edge portion 133c.

[0214] The second edge portion 133c has extending from the first side portion thereof at a lower end a first extension portion 133c’. The first extension portion 133c’ is between the end of the second flange 134b of the second channel-section glazing element 134 and the web 132c of the first channel-section glazing element 132.

[0215] In this example the central portion 133a has a multi-wall configuration comprising a plurality of walls to define a plurality of air-spaces. An upper wall of the central portion 133a faces the web 134c and a lower wall of the central portion 133a faces the web 132c. The upper wall of the central portion 133a is parallel to the lower wall of the central portion 133a and the spacing of the upper and lower walls of the central portion 133a defines a thickness of the central portion 133a, the thickness of the central portion 133a being aligned with a first axis (not shown).

[0216] The central portion 133a is inclined relative to the webs 132c, 134c such that the first axis is also inclined relative to the webs 132c, 134c.

[0217] In this example the first and second edge portions 133b, 133c also have a multi- wall construction. The first extension portions 133b’ and 133c’ may have a multi-walled construction or be monolithic.

[0218] The first extension portions 133b’ and 133c’ are preferably integrally formed with the respective first and second edge portions 133b, 133c.

[0219] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a facade 141 comprising a plurality of glazings 131 of the type shown in figure 9. Each glazing 131 is positioned adjacent another glazing 131. To aid with the description of figure 10, three glazings 131, 131* and 131** are highlighted. Each glazing 131, 131 * and 131 * * is the same as illustrated in figure 9, therefore each component part of glazing 131* and 131** will be referenced in the same way as for glazing 131 except with the addition of a “*” or “**” respectively after each component part.

[0220] When installing the glazing to make facade 141, the second flange 132b* of glazing 131* fits into the space between the flange 132a and the flange 134a of glazing 131 such that the flange 134a faces the web 132c* of the first channel-section glazing element 132* of glazing 131*. Consequently, the flange 132b* of the first channel-section glazing element 132* of the glazing 131 * faces the web 134c of the second channel-section glazing element 134 of the glazing 131.

[0221] The glazings 131 forming the facade 141 may be vertically or horizontally orientated.

[0222] For each glazing 131, 131*, 131** etc. in the facade there may be suitable sealant material in between adjacent longitudinal edges.

[0223] With reference to figures 9 and 10, in the space between the second flange 134b of the second channel-section glazing element 134 and the second flange 132b of the first channel-section glazing element 132 is the first flange 134a** of the second channel-section glazing element 134** of the glazing 131**.

[0224] The first extension portion 133b’ of the first edge portion 133b of the inner glazing element 133 is between the ends of the flanges 132a, 132b* and the web 134c.

[0225] The first extension portion 133c’ of the second edge portion 133c of the inner glazing element 133 is between the ends of the flanges 134b, 134a** and the web 132c.

[0226] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of another inner glazing element 73 that may be useful in the present invention. For example, the inner glazing element 73 may replace any or all of the inner glazing elements in the facade 141.

[0227] The inner glazing element 73 has a unitary configuration and is made of polycarbonate having a multi-walled construction. The inner glazing element 73 is made using a suitable extrusion process.

[0228] The inner glazing element 73 has a central portion 73a, a first edge portion 73b and a second edge portion 73c.

[0229] The first and second edge portions 73b, 73c are integrally formed with the central portion 73a.

[0230] The first edge portion 73b has a first side portion 75a and a second side portion 75b. The first side portion 75a of the first edge portion 73b is thicker than the second side portion 75b of the first edge portion 73b. That is, a thickness of the first side portion 75a of the first edge portion 73b is greater than a thickness of the second side portion 75b of the first edge portion 73b.

[0231] The second edge portion 73c has a first side portion 76a and a second side portion 76b. The first side portion 76a of the second edge portion 73c is thicker than the second side portion 76b of the second edge portion 73c. That is, a thickness of the first side portion 76a of the second edge portion 73c is greater than a thickness of the second side portion 76b of the second edge portion 73c. The central portion 73a has a first wall 74a and a second opposing wall 74b. The spacing of the walls 74a, 74b defines a thickness 73d of the central portion.

[0232] If the central portion has outer walls that are not planar, an average thickness may be determined, for example by determining a thickness of the central portion at different positions between the first and second end portions 73b, 73c and calculating a mean thickness.

[0233] In the example shown in figure 11, the thickness 73d of the central portion is parallel to the y-axis.

[0234] The first side portion 75a has a flat outer wall 77a and the first side portion 76a has a flat outer wall 78a. The flat outer walls 77a, 78a are configured to lie against or parallel to a flange of a channelsection glazing element.

[0235] Extending from the flat outer wall 77a is a first extension portion 73b’ and extending from the outer wall 78a is a first extension portion 73c’. The first extension portion 73b’ is integrally formed with the first edge portion 73b and the first extension portion 73c’ is integrally formed with the second edge portion 73c.

[0236] In cross-section, neither of the first edge portion 73b or the second edge portion 73c has a rectangular cross-section. Other than the addition of the first extension portions 73b’ and 73c’, each of the first and second edge portions has a substantially triangular cross-section.

[0237] The inner glazing element 73 may be optically transparent or translucent. The inner glazing element may be tinted to provide the glazing in which the inner glazing element is incorporated with a different colour in transmitted light.

[0238] Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of another inner glazing element 93 that may be useful in the present invention. For example, the inner glazing element 93 may replace any or all of the inner glazing elements in the facade 141.

[0239] The inner glazing element 93 has a unitary configuration and is made of a suitable plastic such as polycarbonate, polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride. In this embodiment the inner glazing element 93 has a multi-walled construction. The inner glazing element 93 is made using a suitable extrusion process.

[0240] The inner glazing element 93 has a central portion 93a, a first edge portion 93b and a second edge portion 93c.

[0241] The first and second edge portions 93b, 93c are integrally formed with the central portion 93a.

[0242] The first edge portion 93b has a first side portion 95a and a second side portion 95b. The first side portion 95a has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion 95b.

[0243] The second edge portion 93c has a first side portion 96a and a second side portion 96b. The first side portion 96a has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second side portion 96b.

[0244] The central portion 93a has a first wall 94a and a second opposing wall 94b. The first and second walls 94a, 94b are substantially parallel. The spacing of the walls 94a, 94b defines a thickness 93d of the central portion. The first side portion 95a has a flat outer wall 97a and the first side portion 96a has a flat outer wall 98a. The flat outer walls 97a, 98a are configured to lie against or parallel to a flange of a channelsection glazing element.

[0245] Extending from the flat outer wall 97a is a first extension portion 93b’ running essentially parallel to the x-axis. Extending downwardly from the end of the first extension portion 93b’ is a second extension portion 93b” . The second extension portion 93b” is parallel to the outer wall 97a and at 90° to the first extension portion 93b’, The second extension portion 93b” is integrally formed with the first extension portion 93b’ and the first extension portion 93b’ is integrally formed with the first edge portion 93b.

[0246] The first extension portion 93b’ and the second extension portion 93b” are configured as a first connection portion of the inner glazing element 93 as shall be described hereinafter.

[0247] Extending from the flat outer wall 98a is a third extension portion 93c’ running essentially parallel to the x-axis. Extending upwardly from the end of the first extension portion 93c’ is a fourth extension portion 93c”. The fourth extension portion 93c” is parallel to the outer wall 98a and at 90° to the third extension portion 93c’, The fourth extension portion 93c” is integrally formed with the third extension portion 93c’ and the third extension portion 93c’ is integrally formed with the second edge portion 93c.

[0248] The third extension portion 93c’ and the fourth extension portion 93c” are configured as a second connection portion of the inner glazing element 93 as shall be described hereinafter.

[0249] Figure 13 shows the inner glazing element 93 described in relation to figure 12 incorporated in a glazing 201. The glazing 201 is configured similarly to the glazing 131 shown in figure 9.

[0250] With reference to figure 2, figure 13 is a view in the direction of the z-axis.

[0251] With reference to figures 12 and 13, the glazing 201 has a first channel-section glazing element 202 having a first flange 202a, a second flange 202b and a web 202c. The flanges 202a, 202b are continuous with the web 202c and the first channel-section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE1496047A1.

[0252] The glazing 201 also has a second channel-section glazing element 204 having a first flange 204a, a second flange 204b and a web 204c. The first channel-section glazing element 202 has the same dimensions as the second channel-section glazing element 204. This is advantageous because both the first and second channel-section glazing elements can be made during the same production run.

[0253] The first channel-section glazing element 202 and second channel-section glazing element 204 are each of the type as described in relation to figure 2.

[0254] The first and second channel-section glazing elements 202, 204 are arranged such that the flange 204b faces the web 202c, and the flange 204b is received in the space between the flanges 202a, 202b. The first and second channel-section glazing elements 202, 204 are arranged to form a cavity in which the inner glazing element 93 is located. The outer surface of the flange 204b is spaced from the inner surface of the flange 202b by a sufficient amount such that a flange of another glazing may be located therebetween (as shown in phantom). In this context “the outer surface of the flange” and “the inner surface of the flange” relate to the orientation of the flange surface in relation to the cavity formed by the first and second channel-section glazing elements 202, 204 in which the inner glazing element 93 is located.

[0255] In contrast to the glazing shown in figure 9, the flanges 202b and 204b are spaced further apart to accommodate the fourth extension portion 93c”.

[0256] As a consequence of the first and second channel-section glazing elements 202, 204 having the same dimensions and because the flange 202b is spaced from the flange 204b, the flange 202a is spaced from the flange 204a. The space between the outer surface of flange 202a and the inner surface of flange 204a is sufficient that a flange of an adjacent glazing may be located therebetween (as shown in phantom) and the second extension portion 93b”.

[0257] The inner surfaces of the flanges 202a, 204b and portions of the inner surfaces of the webs 202c, 204c define the cavity in which is located the inner glazing element 93.

[0258] There is an upper space 207 between the web 204c and the central portion 93a. There is a lower space 208 between the central portion 93a and the web 202c.

[0259] The first edge portion 93b is adjacent the flange 202a and the flat outer wall 97a is in contact therewith.

[0260] The first extension portion 93b’ is between the end of the first flange 202a of the first channelsection glazing element 202 and the web 204c of the second channel-section glazing element 134. The first extension portion 93b is also between the flange 204c and an end of flange 302 of an adjacent channel-section glazing element 300 shown in phantom. The channel-section glazing element 300 is configured in the same way as the first and second channel-section glazing elements 202, 204.

[0261] The first extension portion 93b’ and the second extension portion 93c’ form a first connection portion which connects the first channel-section glazing element 202 to the channel-section glazing element 300. This means that a separate clip is not required to perform the same function.

[0262] The second edge portion 93c is adjacent the flange 204b and the flat wall 98a is in contact with the flange 204b. The third extension portion 93c’ is between the end of the second flange 204b of the second channel-section glazing element 204 and the web 202c of the first channel-section glazing element 202. The third extension portion 93c’ is also between the end of the flange 402 of an adjacent channel-section glazing element 400 shown in phantom. The third extension portion 93c’ and the fourth extension portion 93c’ ’ form a second connection portion that extends over the ends of the flanges 204b, 402 to connect the second channel-section glazing element 204 to the channel-section glazing element 400.

[0263] A plurality of such glazings 201 may be arranged side-by-side (for example, horizontally or vertically), as shown in figure 7 or figure 10 to form a facade.

[0264] Inner glazing elements previously described are made of a suitable plastic material such as polycarbonate. Suitably the plastic material is optically transparent or translucent. The plastic may be tinted to provide a transmitted colour when viewed therethrough.

[0265] The present invention provides a glazing that using an inner glazing element made of plastic to improve the thermal performance. Using a suitably configured inner glazing element having a multi - wall configuration also helps further improve thermal performance.

[0266] By having an inner glazing element with at least one integrally formed edge portion having a non-rectangular cross-section, this helps improve thermal insulation performance of the glazing according to the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A glazing comprising a first channel-section glazing element and a second channel-section glazing element, the first and second channel-section glazing elements each comprising a web and a first flange, the first flange running along a first lateral edge of the respective web, the first and second channel-section glazing elements being arranged such that the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the second channel-section glazing element and the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element faces the first channel-section glazing element, wherein an inner glazing element made of plastic is located between the first and second channel-section glazing elements, the inner glazing element comprising a central portion, a first edge portion running along a first side of the central portion and a second edge portion running along a second side of the central portion, the first side of the central portion being opposite the second side of the central portion, wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is adjacent the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element; the central portion having a thickness, the thickness of the central portion being aligned with a first axis; wherein the first edge portion has a first side portion facing the first flange of the first channelsection glazing element and a second side portion integrally formed with the central portion; the first side portion of the first edge portion extending between the web of the first channelsection glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a first distance, the first distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis; the second side portion of the first edge portion extending between the web of the first channelsection glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a second distance, the second distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis; wherein the first distance is greater the second distance; there being an air-space between the central portion and the web of the first channel-section glazing element and / or the web of the second channel-section glazing element.

2. A glazing according to claim 1, wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a first extension portion, the first extension portion being positioned between an end of the first flange of the first channel section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element.

3. A glazing according to claim 2, wherein the first edge portion comprises the first extension portion and a second extension portion, the first extension portion being positioned between the end of the first flange of the first channel section glazing element and the web of the secondchannel section glazing element and the second extension portion being positioned such that the first flange of the first channel section glazing element is between the second extension portion and the first side of the first edge portion.

4. A glazing according to claim 3, wherein the second extension position is integrally formed with the first extension portion.

5. A glazing according to any of the claims 2 to 4, wherein the first extension portion is integrally formed with the first edge portion.

6. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second edge portion has a first side portion facing the first flange of the second channel-section glazing and a second side portion integrally formed with the central portion.

7. A glazing according to claim 6, wherein the first side portion of the second edge portion extends between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a third distance, the third distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis.

8. A glazing according to claim 7, wherein the second side portion of the second edge portion extends between the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the web of the second channel section glazing element by a fourth distance, the fourth distance running along an axis parallel to the first axis.

9. A glazing according to claim 8, wherein the third distance is greater the fourth distance.

10. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second edge portion has a non- rectangular cross-section11. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a third extension portion, the third extension portion being positioned between the end of the second flange of the second channel section glazing element and the web of the first channel section glazing element.

12. A glazing according to claim 11, wherein the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a third extension portion and a fourth extension portion, the third extension portion being positioned between the end of the second flange of the second channel section glazing element and the web of the first channel section glazing element and the fourth extensionportion being positioned such that the second flange of the second channel section glazing element is between the fourth extension portion and the first side of the second edge portion.

13. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises at least a first wall spaced apart from a second wall, the first and second walls of the central portion of the inner glazing element have at least one space therebetween.

14. A glazing according to claim 13, wherein the central portion of the inner glazing element has a multi-wall construction comprising the first wall facing the web of the first channel-section glazing element and the second wall facing the web of the second channel-section glazing element, there being a plurality of air-spaces between the first and second walls of the central portion of the inner glazing element.

15. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the first channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile.

16. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the web of the second channelsection glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the second channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile.

17. A glazing according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the first flange of the second channelsection glazing element is received in the space between the first and second flanges of the first channel-section glazing element.

18. A glazing according to any of the claims 1 to 16, wherein the first flange of the first and second channel-section glazing elements each has a respective first end opposite the respective web thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first end of the first flange of the first channelsection glazing element faces the first end of the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

19. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner glazing element has a multi-wall construction.

20. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a third channel-section glazing element comprising a web and a first flange running along a first lateral edge thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element faces the web of the third channel-section glazing element; the first flange of the second and third channel-section glazing elements faces the web of the first channel-section glazing element, and wherein the first flange of the third channel-section glazing element is between the first flange of the first channel-section glazing element and the first flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

21. A glazing according to claim 20, wherein the web of the first channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the first channel-section glazing element has a U-shaped profile; and wherein the web of the second channel-section glazing element has a second flange running along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second channel-section glazing element, preferably wherein the second channelsection glazing element has a U-shaped profile; wherein the second flange of the first channelsection glazing element faces the web of the second channel-section glazing element.

22. A glazing according to claim 20 or claim 21, further comprising a fourth channel-section glazing element comprising a web and a first flange running along a first lateral edge thereof, the glazing being arranged such that the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element faces the web of the second channel-section glazing element; and wherein the first flange of the fourth channel-section glazing element is between the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element and the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

23. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner glazing element is tinted.

24. A glazing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a U-value of the glazing measured in accordance with BS EN 673:2011 is reduced compared to the same glazing without the inner glazing element.

25. A facade comprising a plurality of glazings according to any of the preceding claims.

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