Multi-glazing with asymmetric vacuum-insulated glazing units

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laminated glazing (10) extending along a plane P defined by a longitudinal axis X and a vertical axis Y, comprising at least: a. a vacuum insulated glazing unit, comprising: i. a first glass pane GP1 having a thickness Z1 and having an inner pane surface (11) and an outer pane surface (12), and a second glass pane GP2 having a thickness Z2 and having an inner pane surface (21) and an outer pane surface (22), the thickness being measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P; ii. a set of discrete spacers (3) positioned between the first and second glass panes to maintain a distance between the first and second glass panes; and iii. a set of discrete spacers (4) positioned between the first and second glass panes to maintain a distance between the first and second glass panes. a. a vacuum insulated glazing unit including an inner volume V defined by a set of first and second glass panes and discrete spacers and closed by the hermetic adhesive seal, in which a vacuum having a pressure of less than 0.1 mbar exists and the inner pane surface faces the inner volume V; b. a third glass pane GP3 having an inner pane surface (31) and an outer pane surface (32); c. a perimeter spacer (6) positioned between and maintaining a distance between the outer pane surface (22) of the second glass pane GP2 and the inner pane surface (31) of the third glass pane GP3 around their perimeter. The perimeter spacer (6), the outer pane surface (22) and the inner pane surface (31) define an interior space Sp. The thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1.10 or greater (Z1 / Z2≧1.10), and the second glass pane GP2 faces the interior space Sp.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a laminated glazing comprising a vacuum insulation unit, in which a first and a second glass pane are of different thicknesses and in particular the thinner glass pane is positioned within the laminated glazing such that it faces the interior space of the laminated glazing. [Background technology]

[0002] Multiple glazing, such as double glazing or even triple glazing, is a very conventional solution for providing thermal insulation. Double glazing typically comprises two glass panes connected along their perimeter by a perimeter spacer that creates an interior space sealed by a peripheral seal. The perimeter spacer maintains a certain distance between the two glass panes. Typically, the interior space is filled with air and / or an inert gas to further reduce heat transfer and / or reduce sound transmission.

[0003] Current window frames are designed with specific sized slots to incorporate these double or even triple glazing structures. If improved thermal insulation is still required, such double glazing can be completely replaced by vacuum insulated glazing. Vacuum insulated glazing units typically consist of at least two glass panes separated by an inner volume in which a vacuum is created. Generally, high performance thermal insulation (heat transmission coefficient Ug is less than Ug<1.2 W / m 2 To achieve a thermal insulation temperature of 100° C. (which is 100 K), the absolute pressure inside the glazing unit is typically 0.1 mbar or less and generally at least one of the two glass panes is covered with a low-emissivity layer.

[0004] However, replacing current laminated glazing with vacuum insulated glazing is problematic because vacuum insulated glazing is much thinner than laminated glazing and does not use the entire space provided by the groove in the window frame. One solution provided in the art is represented in WO 2014 / 039642, which proposes that the vacuum insulated glazing unit be supported on one side by part of the frame and on the other side by a spacer structure. Another existing solution described in WO 2007 / 075298 proposes adding an additional glass pane fixed to the frame.

[0005] Yet another solution is to replace one of the glass panes of the multi-layer glazing with a vacuum-insulated glazing unit, so that the technical problem of unnecessary frame groove space does not occur. EP 860406 A discloses a double glazing that includes one or two vacuum-insulated glazing units. However, such a configuration gives rise to other technical problems. In fact, it was predicted that the vacuum-insulated glazing unit would mechanically behave in the multi-layer glazing as a single pane, because the internal volume of the vacuum-insulated glazing unit is very thin and both glass panes are strongly connected by a hermetic adhesive seal. However, it was surprisingly found that the vacuum-insulated glazing unit in the multi-layer glazing shows very different mechanical and thermal performances.

[0006] Vacuum insulating glazing is carefully dimensioned to withstand different external loads. The main loads to be considered are those induced by the temperature difference between the external and internal environments. In fact, the glass panes facing the internal environment will capture a temperature similar to that of the internal environment, and the glass panes facing the external environment will capture a temperature similar to that of the external environment. In the most severe weather conditions, the difference between the internal and external temperatures can reach 40°C or more. The temperature difference between the internal and external environment can lead to stresses on the inside of the glass panes and, in severe cases, can cause the vacuum insulating glazing unit to crack. It is therefore important to control the level of thermally induced stresses.

[0007] Such technical problem of thermally induced stress is addressed in JP2001316137, which deals with how to improve vacuum insulated glazing so that the glass panes do not deform or warp even when exposed to strong sunlight. JP2001316137 teaches to design the glazing in which the inner glass pane arranged on the indoor side is thicker than the outer glass pane. On the other hand, JP2001316138 teaches the opposite VIG structure in which the outer glass pane arranged on the outdoor side is thicker than the inner glass pane to improve impact resistance and acoustics.

[0008] There is no prior art that addresses the technical problem of controlling the level of induced thermal stresses in vacuum insulated glazing units when incorporated into composite glazing. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The invention relates to a multi-layer glazing extending along a plane P defined by a longitudinal axis X and a vertical axis Y, the multi-layer glazing comprising at least A vacuum insulated glazing unit, comprising: i. a first glass pane GP1 having a thickness Z1 and having an inner pane surface and an outer pane surface, and a second glass pane GP2 having a thickness Z2 and having an inner pane surface and an outer pane surface, the thickness being measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P; ii. a set of discrete spacers positioned between the first and second glass panes to maintain a distance between the first and second glass panes; iii. a hermetic adhesive seal that seals the distance between the first and second glass panes around their perimeter; iv. An interior volume V defined by the first and second glass panes and the set of discrete spacers and closed by a hermetic adhesive seal, wherein a vacuum having a pressure of less than 0.1 mbar exists within the interior volume V, and an inner pane surface faces the interior volume V. A vacuum insulating glazing unit comprising: b. a third glass pane GP3 having an inner pane surface and an outer pane surface; c. a peripheral spacer positioned between and maintaining a distance between the outer pane surface of the second glass pane GP2 and the inner pane surface of the third glass pane GP3 around the periphery thereof; The perimeter spacer, the outer pane surface of the second glass pane GP2, and the inner pane surface of the third glass pane GP3 define an interior space Sp. The thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1.10 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.10). The second glass pane GP2 faces the interior space Sp.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the vacuum insulated glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane equal to or greater than 1.20 (Z1 / Z2≧1.20), preferably equal to or greater than 1.30 (Z1 / Z2≧1.30), preferably equal to or greater than 1.50 (Z1 / Z2≧1.50), preferably equal to or greater than 1.55 (Z1 / Z2≧1.55), more preferably equal to or greater than 1.60 (Z1 / Z2≧1.60). In a preferred embodiment, the vacuum insulated glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane equal to or less than 6.00 (Z1 / Z2≦6.00), equal to or less than 4.00 (Z1 / Z2≦4.00), equal to or less than 2.50 (Z1 / Z2≦2.50). In a more preferred embodiment, the vacuum insulating glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 in the range of 1.20 to 1.60 (1.20≦Z1 / Z2≦1.60), preferably 1.30 to 1.60 (1.30≦Z1 / Z2≦1.60).

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is between 1 mm and 8 mm (1 mm≦Z2≦8 mm), preferably between 2 mm and 6 mm (2 mm≦Z2≦6 mm). In a preferred embodiment, the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane is between 2 mm and 10 mm (2 mm≦Z1≦10 mm), preferably between 3 mm and 8 mm (3 mm≦Z1≦8 mm).

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the inner pane surface of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface of the second glass pane and / or the outer pane surface of the first glass pane is laminated to at least one glass sheet by a polymer interlayer to form a laminated glass pane. Preferably, the outer pane surface of the first glass pane is laminated to at least one glass sheet by a polymer interlayer to form a laminated glass pane.

[0013] Preferably, the glass sheet has a thickness Zs, measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, in the range of 1 mm to 8 mm (1 mm≦Zs≦8 mm), preferably 1 mm to 6 mm (1 mm≦Zs≦6 mm), more preferably 2 mm to 4 mm (2 mm≦Zs≦4 mm), preferably equal to 4 mm (Zs=4 mm). It is further preferred that the thicknesses of the first, second and / or third glass panes and the thickness of the glass sheet are different (Z1, Z2 and / or Z3≠Zs).

[0014] In a more preferred embodiment, the third glass pane has a thickness Z3, measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm≦Z3≦8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm≦Z3≦6 mm), and the third glass pane is laminated, preferably by means of an acoustic PVB polymer interlayer, to a glass sheet having a thickness Zs in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm≦Zs≦8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm≦Zs≦6 mm). It is further preferred that the thickness of the third glass pane and the thickness of the glass sheet are different (Z3≠Zs).

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the multiple glazing further comprises at least a functional coating, preferably a heat reflective coating or a low emissivity coating, on at least one of the glass pane or glass sheet surfaces, preferably on the inner pane surface of the first and / or second glass pane and / or the inner pane surface of the third glass pane.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, one glass pane of the insulating glazing is prestressed glass. In one embodiment, the first glass pane and / or the third glass pane are preferably prestressed glass. In another embodiment, the second glass pane is preferably prestressed glass.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the set of discrete spacers form an array having a pitch between 15mm and 80mm, preferably between 15mm and 50mm, more preferably between 15mm and 40mm, more preferably between 15mm and 25mm, and even more preferably about 20mm.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the first glass pane has a linear thermal expansion coefficient CTE1 and the second glass pane has a linear thermal expansion coefficient CTE2, the absolute difference between CTE1 and CTE2 being at most 1.2×10 -6 / ℃(|CTE1-CTE2|≦1.2×10 -6 / °C), preferably at most 0.8 × 10 -6 / ℃(|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.8×10 -6 / °C), more preferably at most 0.4 × 10 -6 / ℃(|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.4×10 -6 / °C), more preferably at most 0.2 × 10 -6 / ℃(|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.2×10 -6 / °C), and even more preferably equal to 0 (|CTE1-CTE2|=0 / °C).

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the perimeter spacer is a thermally enhanced spacer having a thermal conductivity value of less than or equal to 0.007 W / K as calculated by EN10077-1 annex E. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1]1 shows a cross-sectional view of a multi-glazing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes an asymmetric vacuum insulated glazing unit with a single glass pane and a thinner glass pane facing the interior space of the multi-glazing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] It is an object of the present invention to provide a composite glazing, including a vacuum insulated glazing unit, that exhibits reduced thermally induced stresses.

[0022] The vacuum insulated glazing unit is hereinafter referred to as "VIG". The invention is further described herein with reference to a double glazing assembly comprising a VIG and a single glass pane, but can be extended to any multi-layer glazing comprising one or more VIGs and one or more single glass panes. Another common multi-layer glazing is a triple glazing assembly comprising one or two VIGs. All technical features and preferred technical features further described herein in relation to double glazing can be applied to triple and any other multi-layer glazing.

[0023] In use, glazing is typically used to close a partition that separates an interior space from an exterior space. The temperature of the interior space is typically 20-25°C, whereas the temperature of the exterior space can range from -20°C in winter to +35°C in summer. Thus, the temperature difference between the interior and exterior spaces can typically reach over 40°C in extreme conditions.

[0024] In the present invention, the VIG in the double glazing separates a space A, characterized by a temperature TempA, from the interior space of the double glazing unit, characterized by an internal temperature Tempint. When the VIG is positioned such that its first glass pane GP1 faces the first space A, the temperature of said first glass pane (T1) is adjusted to the temperature of the first space (TempA). Similarly, the third glass pane GP3 separates a space B, characterized by a temperature TempB, from the interior space. The temperature of said third glass pane (T3) is adjusted to the temperature of the second space (TempB). The temperature (T2) of the second glass pane GP2, facing the interior space, is adjusted to the temperature of the interior space (Tempint).

[0025] Typically, for double glazing, the temperature of the interior space (Tempint) was expected to be slightly affected by solar radiation and reach an average temperature between TempA and TempB. Surprisingly, it was found that for double glazing, where at least one of the single glass panes is replaced by VIG, the temperature of the interior space (Tempint) is strongly affected by solar radiation and can reach temperatures much higher than TempA and TempB.

[0026] Thermally induced stresses arise as soon as there is a temperature difference between the first glass pane (GP1 and T1) and the second glass pane (GP2 and T2) and increase as the difference between T1 and T2 increases. The temperature difference (ΔT) is the difference between the average temperature T1 calculated for the first glass pane GP1 and the average temperature T2 calculated for the second glass pane GP2. The average temperatures of the glass panes are calculated from numerical simulations known to the skilled person. Thermally induced stresses become problematic up to the possibility of VIG failure when the absolute value of the temperature difference between the glass panes (|ΔT|) reaches 20° C. and become serious when such absolute value of the temperature difference reaches 30° C. and in more severe situations 40° C.

[0027] It has further been found that when VIG is included in a composite glazing, such absolute value of the temperature difference (|ΔT|) between the glass panes can typically reach even higher values ​​than the corresponding temperature difference reached within a standalone VIG.

[0028] The table below shows data (from a location in Uccle, Belgium) where the absolute value of the temperature difference in summer (|ΔT|) is much higher for VIG in double glazing than for a single VIG. The outside temperature can reach 35°C in summer and -10°C in winter, with a temperature of 20°C inside the building. The absolute value of the temperature difference (|ΔT|) would therefore range around 14°C in summer and 27°C in winter for a single VIG. If the VIG is configured as double glazing, the temperature of the interior space (Tempint) can reach 70°C in summer and 0°C in winter. The absolute value of the temperature difference (|ΔT|) faced by the VIG in double glazing would therefore range around 37°C in summer and 20°C in winter. It can be seen from these data that for VIG in double glazing, the absolute value of the temperature difference in summer (|ΔT|) is much higher than for a single VIG (|ΔT|). On the other hand, for VIG in composite glazing, the absolute value of temperature difference (|ΔT|) in winter is lower than that of single unit (|ΔT|). Therefore, the reversed situation of absolute value of temperature difference (|ΔT|) in summer and winter requires a significant paradigm change in the design of glazing to control thermally induced stresses.

[0029] The following table illustrates the temperature difference (ΔT), which is the difference between the average temperature T1 calculated for the first pane of glass GP1 and the average temperature T2 calculated for the second pane of glass GP2. TIFF2024534333000002.tif83170

[0030] Thus, when incorporated into a multi-layer glazing, the VIG must be carefully dimensioned to resist the thermally induced stresses imposed on the particular environment of use and on the multi-layer glazing configuration. Specifically, it has been found that the VIG's asymmetric glass thickness can address the technical challenge of severe thermally induced stresses when positioned in a particular orientation. In fact, it has been surprisingly found that an asymmetric VIG should be incorporated into a multi-layer glazing such that the thinner glass pane faces the interior space of the multi-layer glazing.

[0031] Thermally induced stresses were tested and compared in three different double glazing configurations placed in a building at eight different locations, with a single glass pane (hereafter referred to as the third glass pane GP3) facing the exterior of the building. The single glass pane is separated from the VIG by a 15mm perimeter spacer and an interior volume when filled with argon. The single glass pane has a solar control coating on its surface facing the interior volume of the double glazing. The VIG includes a first glass pane GP1 and a second glass pane GP2. The second glass pane faces the interior volume of the double glazing. The first glass pane has a low emissivity coating on its surface facing the interior volume of the VIG. Reference configuration: VIG, including GP2 with a thickness of 6 mm and GP1 with a thickness of 6 mm; Comparison configurations represented by grey dots: VIG, including GP2 with a thickness of 6 mm and GP1 with a thickness of 4 mm; Configuration of the invention represented by black squares: VIG including GP2 having a thickness of 4 mm and GP1 having a thickness of 6 mm.

[0032] A normalized performance indicator P was calculated, which corresponds to the ratio of the maximum thermally induced stress at each location throughout winter and summer conditions for the studied configuration over the stress corresponding to the reference configuration. If P is equal to 1, the tested configuration does not provide any improvement. If P>1, the tested configuration demonstrates increased thermally induced stress. If P<1, the tested configuration demonstrates reduced thermally induced stress. The normalized performance indicator is represented on the Y-axis of the graph below.

[0033] The ratio of the absolute value of the temperature difference during summer (|ΔT|) to the absolute value of the temperature difference during winter (|ΔT|) is represented on the X-axis of the graph below and is referred to herein as the "temperature ratio." TIFF2024534333000003.tif95170

[0034] The chart demonstrates that an asymmetric VIG with a thicker glass pane facing the interior space does not reduce thermally induced stresses. In fact, the normalized performance indicator P remains above 1 for all temperature ratios. However, the chart demonstrates that an asymmetric VIG with a thinner glass pane facing the interior space of the laminated glazing does reduce thermally induced stresses, and even more so as the temperature ratio increases.

[0035] Therefore, it has been found that when VIG is incorporated into a composite glazing, the temperature of the interior space may be surprisingly high in summer. Therefore, in addition to the thermally induced stresses that must be considered in winter, the thermally induced stresses must also be considered in summer. The thermally induced stresses in summer may even be the most important parameter to consider for the design of the VIG. In such cases, the present invention teaches to design a composite glazing in which the VIG unit is asymmetric and oriented such that the thin glass pane faces the interior space of the composite glazing.

[0036] Accordingly, and as illustrated in Figure 1, the present invention relates to a composite glazing (10) extending along a plane P, defined by a longitudinal axis X and a vertical axis Y. The composite glazing comprises at least one vacuum insulated glazing unit (20), a third glass pane GP3 and a perimeter spacer (6).

[0037] The VIG in the composite glazing of the present invention is a. a first glass pane GP1 having a thickness Z1 and having an inner pane surface (11) and an outer pane surface (12), and a second glass pane GP2 having a thickness Z2 and having an inner pane surface (21) and an outer pane surface (22), the thicknesses being measured in a direction perpendicular to plane P; b. a set of discrete spacers (3) positioned between the first and second glass panes to maintain a distance between the first and second glass panes; c. a hermetic adhesive seal (4) that seals the distance between the first and second glass panes around their periphery; d. An interior volume V defined by the first and second glass panes and the set of discrete spacers and closed by a hermetic adhesive seal under vacuum. By vacuum is meant a pressure below 0.1 mbar. The inner pane surfaces of the first and second glass panes of the VIG face the interior volume V.

[0038] The third glass pane GP3 has an inner pane surface (31) and an outer pane surface (32). A peripheral spacer (6) is positioned around the periphery between and maintains a distance between the outer pane surface (22) of the second glass pane GP2 and the inner pane surface (31) of the third glass pane GP3. The peripheral spacer, the outer pane surface (22) and the inner pane surface (31) define an interior space Sp.

[0039] Within the present invention, the second glass pane GP2 of the VIG faces the internal space Sp of the multiple glazing.

[0040] The inner pane surface (11) of the first glass pane GP1 may typically be covered with a low-emissivity coating (5).

[0041] Within the present invention, the thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1.10 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.10). In a preferred embodiment, the thickness ratio Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1.20 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.20), preferably 1.30 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.30), preferably 1.50 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.50), preferably 1.55 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.55), more preferably 1.60 or more (Z1 / Z2≧1.60). In preferred embodiments, the vacuum insulation assembly has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane that is equal to or less than 6.00 (Z1 / Z2≦6.00), equal to or less than 4.00 (Z1 / Z2≦4.00), equal to or less than 2.50 (Z1 / Z2≦2.50). In more preferred embodiments, the vacuum insulation assembly has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 in the range of 1.20 to 1.60 (1.20≦Z1 / Z2≦1.60), preferably 1.30 to 1.60 (1.30≦Z1 / Z2≦1.60). Surprisingly, it has been found that the thickness ratio should be as high as possible to reduce thermally induced stresses during summer conditions, but not too high to avoid exacerbating thermally induced stresses during winter conditions.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, within the VIG included in the insulating glazing of the invention, the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1 mm or more (Z2≧1 mm), preferably 2 mm or more (Z2≧2 mm), preferably 3 mm or more (Z2≧3 mm), preferably 4 mm or more (Z2≧4 mm), more preferably 6 mm or more (Z2≧6 mm). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1 mm to 8 mm (1 mm≦Z2≦8 mm), preferably 2 mm to 6 mm (2 mm≦Z2≦6 mm).

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, within the VIG included in the insulating glazing of the present invention, the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane is 2 mm or more (Z1≧2 mm), preferably 3 mm or more (Z1≧3 mm), preferably 4 mm or more (Z1≧4 mm), preferably 6 mm or more (Z1≧6 mm), preferably 8 mm or more (Z1≧8 mm), more preferably 10 mm or more (Z1≧10 mm). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane is 2 mm to 10 mm (2 mm≦Z1≦10 mm), preferably 3 mm to 8 mm (3 mm≦Z1≦8 mm).

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, within the VIG included in the composite glazing of the present invention, the thickness Z3 of the third glass pane is typically 2 mm or more (Z3≧2 mm), preferably 3 mm or more (Z3≧3 mm), more preferably 4 mm or more (Z3≧4 mm), more preferably 6 mm or more (Z3≧6 mm). Typically, the thickness Z3 of the third glass pane is 12 mm or less (Z3≦12 mm), preferably 10 mm or less (Z3≦10 mm), more preferably 8 mm or less (Z3≦8 mm). The thickness is measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness Z3 of the third glass pane is 1 mm to 12 mm (1 mm≦Z3≦12 mm), preferably 3 mm to 10 mm (3 mm≦Z3≦10 mm), more preferably 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm≦Z3≦8 mm).

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the insulating glazing has a length L, measured along the vertical axis Y, of 500 mm or more (L≧500 mm), 800 mm or more (L≧800 mm), more preferably 1200 mm or more (L≧1200 mm). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the insulating glazing has a width W, measured along the longitudinal axis X, of 300 mm or more (W≧300 mm), preferably 400 mm or more (W≧400 mm), more preferably 500 mm or more (W≧500 mm), more preferably 750 mm or more (W≧750 mm), more preferably 1000 mm or more (W≧1000 mm), even more preferably 1000 mm or more (W≧1000 mm).

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, the multi-layer glazing can only include a VIG unit, such that the single pane of glass GP3 described above is contained within a vacuum insulation unit that includes the single pane of glass GP3 and an additional pane of glass GP4 that together form a second VIG unit similar to the VIG described above. All technical features and preferred technical features described above and further herein with respect to the double or multi-layer glazing with a single pane of glass can be applied to the multi-layer glazing configuration, respectively. Thus, in this embodiment, the third pane of glass GP3 is further associated with the fourth pane of glass GP4 by a set of discrete spacers positioned between the third and fourth panes of glass, maintaining the distance between them, and a hermetic adhesive seal seals the distance between them over its periphery, creating an internal volume V in which a vacuum with a pressure of less than 0.1 mbar exists.

[0047] Vacuum Insulation Glazing A VIG typically comprises a first pane of glass and a second pane of glass associated together using a set of discrete spacers that keep the panes of glass apart at a specific distance, typically in the range of 50 μm to 1000 μm, preferably 50 μm to 500 μm, more preferably 50 μm to 150 μm. Generally, a VIG provides high performance thermal insulation (heat transmission coefficient Ug is in the range of Ug<1.2 W / m 2 To achieve a low emissivity (E) of 100 K, the absolute pressure inside the glazing unit is typically 0.1 mbar or less, and generally at least one of the two glass panes is covered with a low-emissivity coating. To obtain such a pressure inside the glazing unit, a hermetic adhesive seal is placed around the two glass panes and a vacuum is generated inside the glazing unit by means of a pump. To prevent the glazing unit from collapsing under air pressure (due to the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the glazing unit), a discrete spacer is placed between the two glass panes.

[0048] Spacer The discrete spacers (also called "pillars") are positioned between the first and second glass panes, maintaining the distance therebetween, forming an array with a pitch λ in the range of 10 mm to 100 mm (10 mm≦λ≦100 mm). By pitch is meant the distance between the discrete spacers. In a preferred embodiment, the pitch is 15 mm to 80 mm (15 mm≦λ≦80 mm), preferably 15 mm to 50 mm (15 mm≦λ≦50 mm), preferably 15 mm to 40 mm (15 mm≦λ≦40 mm), more preferably 15 mm to 25 mm (15 mm≦λ≦25 mm), and even more preferably about 20 mm. The arrays within the present invention are typically regular arrays based on an equilateral triangular, square or hexagonal diagram, preferably based on a square diagram. The discrete spacers can have different shapes, such as cylindrical, spherical, thread-like, hourglass-shaped, C-shaped, cross-shaped, prismatic, etc. Small pillars, i.e. generally 5 mm 2 Less than 3mm, preferably 2 Less than 1mm, more preferably 2 It is preferable to use posts having a contact surface with the glass pane defined by their perimeter of: These values ​​may provide good mechanical resistance while being aesthetically discrete.

[0049] A typical discrete spacer is made of a material that is durable against the pressure and high temperature encountered during the VIG production process and is unlikely to release any gas after the glazing is manufactured. Such a material is preferably a hard material such as a metal material, quartz glass or a ceramic material, in particular a metal material such as iron, tungsten, nickel, chromium, titanium, molybdenum, carbon steel, chromium steel, nickel steel, stainless steel, nickel-chromium steel, manganese steel, chromium-manganese steel, chromium-molybdenum steel, silicon steel, nichrome, duralumin or the like. Another such material can be a ceramic material such as corundum, alumina, mullite, magnesia, yttria, aluminium nitride, silicon nitride or the like. However, if such materials offer higher mechanical resistance, they have rather poor thermal conductivity performance (high thermal conductivity). Therefore, the discrete spacer preferred for the VIG element of the composite glazing of the present invention is made of a material with lower electrical conductivity such as a resin, preferably a polyimide resin. In this case, the thermal conductivity of the spacer can be minimized and heat is less likely to be transferred through the discrete spacers in contact with the first and second glass panes.

[0050] Hermetic adhesive seal The internal volume of the VIG is closed with a hermetic adhesive seal placed around the periphery of the glass pane around said internal space. The hermetic adhesive seal is impermeable to air or any other gas present in the atmosphere. There are various hermetic adhesive seal technologies. The first type of seal (the most widespread) is a seal based on a solder glass whose melting point is lower than that of the glass pane of the glazing unit. Typically it is below 500°C, preferably below 450°C, more preferably below 400°C. Examples are glass frits with low melting points such as bismuth-based glass frits, lead-based glass frits, vanadium-based glass frits and mixtures thereof. The second type of seal comprises a metal seal, for example a metal strip of small thickness (<500 μm) soldered to the periphery of the glazing unit using a tie underlayer at least partially covered with a layer of a solderable material such as soft tin alloy solder.

[0051] Internal volume A vacuum of less than 0.1 mbar, preferably less than 0.01 mbar absolute pressure is created in an internal volume V defined by the first and second glass panes and the set of discrete spacers and closed by a hermetic adhesive seal. Getters can be used to persistently maintain a given vacuum level in the vacuum insulating glazing unit. Typically such getters consist of zirconium, vanadium, iron, cobalt, aluminium etc. and are deposited in the form of a thin layer (a few microns thick) or in the form of tablets placed between the glass panes.

[0052] Multi-glazing In the composite glazing of the present invention, the perimeter spacer maintains a certain distance between the third glass pane and the second glass pane of the VIG. The perimeter spacer extends along the edge of the glazing and is positioned around the perimeter between and maintains a distance between the outer pane surface of the second glass pane GP2 and the inner pane surface of the third glass pane GP3. The perimeter spacer and the outer pane surface define an interior space Sp.

[0053] Typically, the spacer comprises a desiccant and has a thickness that is typically between 4 mm and 32 mm, preferably between 4 and 22 mm, preferably between 4 and 16 mm, more preferably between 6 and 12 mm. Generally, the interior space Sp is filled with air and / or an inert gas selected from dry air, argon, xenon, krypton or mixtures thereof, preferably argon or a mixture of air and argon. The nature of the gas and the distance between GP2 and GP3 are selected to appropriately reduce heat transfer and / or sound transmission.

[0054] In its role of maintaining the internal space Sp, the perimeter spacer must of course provide suitable gas-tight properties. It is important that the perimeter spacer prevents the escape of inert gas from the internal space Sp and / or prevents the entry of water vapor. The perimeter spacer is typically an object of elongated shape and constant cross section. The perimeter spacer can be a solid or hollow element.

[0055] Examples of perimeter spacers include metal spacers, ceramic spacers, glass spacers, polymer spacers, and combinations or composites thereof. Examples of polymer perimeter spacers include polyisobutylene butyl blends, silicone rubber foam, polypropylene, PVC, styrene acrylonitrile, or biopolymers, and mixtures or combinations thereof. Further examples of polymer perimeter spacers include transparent rigid materials such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyamide, and / or polyester, which may provide transparency along the edges. Metal, ceramic, or glass perimeter spacers are also suitable materials. Examples of metals include galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloys. Examples of composite perimeter spacers include polypropylene / stainless steel.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the perimeter spacers in the laminated glazing are warm edge spacers that have better thermal performance than standard aluminium spacer bars. The definition of a warm edge spacer is a thermally improved spacer with a thermal conductivity value of less than or equal to 0.007 W / K, calculated by EN10077-1 annex E.

[0057] The perimeter spacer may have adhesive properties so that it adheres directly to the glass pane surface that it contacts. For example, polyisobutylene butyl compounds (also known as thermoplastic spacers, or TPS) have inherent hermetic and adhesive properties in the extruded form. They offer the advantage of adhering well to glass panes and being able to compensate for irregularities in the flatness of these glass panes, thus ensuring a good seal. They also offer the advantage of conforming to all possible shapes.

[0058] In other cases where the perimeter spacer does not have adhesive properties, such as for silicone rubber foam, a first perimeter seal is required between the third glass pane and the perimeter spacer and between the second glass pane and the perimeter spacer. The adhesive provides air tightness and contributes to the mechanical strength of the structure. Examples of first perimeter seal materials include polyisobutylene, acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, and mixtures or combinations thereof. The preferred first perimeter seal material is polyisobutylene and / or acrylic resin.

[0059] The peripheral spacer can typically be provided with a desiccant material. When the peripheral spacer is a hollow frame, the desiccant material at least partially fills the hollow space. Examples of desiccant materials that can fill the hollow space are silica gel, zeolites and other molecular sieves. When the peripheral spacer is a solid polymer frame, the desiccant material can be incorporated into a polymer matrix. Examples of such desiccant polymers are polymers that contain integral molecular sieves.

[0060] If the first perimeter seal does not provide sufficient gas tightness and / or mechanical strength, a second perimeter seal may be present between the single glass pane and the VIG, covering the perimeter spacer and the first perimeter seal towards the outside. This second perimeter seal may help with air tightness of the interior space and mechanical support of the glazing. The second perimeter seal typically has very good mechanical strength in addition to glass adhesion and possibly water vapor and gas tightness. Examples of second perimeter seal materials include polyisobutylene, silicone, polysulfide, polyurethane or mixtures or combinations thereof. Preferred second perimeter seal materials are silicone, polysulfide and / or polyurethane.

[0061] Glass panes and sheets The VIG glass panes GP1 and GP2 and the third glass pane GP3 can be selected from float clear glass, high transmittance glass or colored glass. Typically the glass panes are soda lime silica glass, aluminosilicate glass or borosilicate glass, preferably soda lime silica glass. Patterned, structured and printed glass are suitable. The glass panes can optionally be edge ground for safety.

[0062] The glass panes GP1 and / or GP2 of the VIG and / or the third glass pane GP3 of the composite glazing may be laminated to at least one glass sheet by a polymer interlayer to form a laminated glass pane. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the inner pane surface (31) of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface (32) of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface (22) of the second glass pane and / or the outer pane surface (12) of the first glass pane is laminated to at least one glass sheet (5) by a polymer interlayer (6) to form a laminated glass pane.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the outer pane surface of the glass pane GP1 and / or the third glass pane GP3 of the multi-layer glazing assembly may be laminated to at least the glass sheet by means of a polymer interlayer to form a laminated glass pane. Surprisingly, it has been found that laminating the first glass pane GP1 of the VIG can further contribute to improving the resistance to thermally induced stresses.

[0064] Preferably, the glass sheets for lamination have a thickness Zs, measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, of 1 mm or more (Zs≧1 mm), preferably 2 mm or more (Zs≧2 mm), preferably 3 mm or more (Zs≧3 mm), preferably 4 mm or more (Zs≧4 mm). In a preferred embodiment, the thickness Zs of the glass sheet is between 1 mm and 8 mm (1 mm≦Zs≦8 mm), preferably between 1 mm and 6 mm (1 mm≦Zs≦6 mm), preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm (2 mm≦Zs≦4 mm), more preferably 4 mm (Zs=4 mm). It is further preferred that the thicknesses of the first, second and / or third glass panes and the thickness of the glass sheet are different (Z1, Z2 and / or Z3≠Zs).

[0065] The polymer interlayer typically comprises a material selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyisobutylene (PIB), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), autoclave free polyvinyl butyral (autoclave free PVB), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester, copolyester, polyacetal, cycloolefin polymer (COP), ionomers and / or UV-activated adhesives and others known in the art of manufacturing laminated glass. Enhanced acoustic insulation can be provided with polymer interlayers with specific acoustic performance, such as specific PVBs (Saflex® acoustic PVB interlayers from Eastman or Trosifol® acoustic PVB interlayers from Kuraray). Preferably, the polymer interlayer is selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), cycloolefin polymer (COP), autoclave free polyvinyl butyral (autoclave free PVB), polyurethane (PU), ionomers such as SentryGlas™, and combinations thereof, more preferably EVA and / or autoclave free PVB.

[0066] A preferred embodiment is a composite glazing in which the third glass pane has a thickness Z3, measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm≦Z3≦8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm≦Z3≦6 mm), and the third glass pane is laminated, preferably by means of an acoustic PVB polymer interlayer, to a glass sheet having a thickness Zs of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm≦Zs≦8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm≦Zs≦6 mm). It is further preferred that the thickness of the third glass pane and the thickness of the glass sheet are different (Z3≠Zs).

[0067] Typically, the glass panes are annealed glass panes. However, in order to provide the multiple glazing with higher mechanical performance and / or to further improve safety, it may be envisaged to use prestressed glass for one or more glass panes of the multiple glazing. In a preferred embodiment, the first glass pane and / or the third glass pane are prestressed glass. In another preferred embodiment, the second glass pane is prestressed glass. By prestressed glass is meant herein heat-strengthened glass, heat-strengthened safety glass or chemically strengthened glass.

[0068] Heat strengthened glass and heat strengthened safety glass are heat treated using a controlled heating and cooling process that places the glass faces in compression and the other core in tension. The heat treatment process delivers a bending strength to the glass that is greater than annealed glass but less than heat strengthened safety glass. When impacted, heat strengthened safety glass shatters into small granular particles rather than breaking into jagged shards. The granular particles are less likely to injure occupants or damage objects.

[0069] Chemical strengthening of glass articles is a thermally induced ion exchange that involves replacing smaller alkali sodium ions in the surface layer of the glass with larger ions, such as alkali potassium ions. An increase in surface compressive stress occurs in the glass as the larger ions "wedge in" into the small spaces previously occupied by the sodium ions. Such chemical treatment is generally carried out by immersing the glass in a molten ion exchange bath containing one or more molten salts of the larger ions with precise control of temperature and time. Aluminosilicate glass compositions, such as those from Asahi Glass Co.'s DragonTrail® line or Corning Inc.'s Gorilla® line, are known to be very efficient for chemical tempering.

[0070] Preferably, the composition of the glass pane comprises the following components in weight percent, expressed on the total weight of the glass (Comp. A): More preferably, the glass composition (Comp. B) is a soda-lime-silica type glass with a base glass matrix of a composition comprising the following components in weight percent, expressed on the total weight of the glass: TIFF2024534333000004.tif122170

[0071] Other preferred glasses include the following components in weight percent, expressed on the total weight of the glass: TIFF2024534333000005.tif90170

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, within the VIG, a first pane of glass has a thermal expansion coefficient CTE1 and a second pane of glass has a thermal expansion coefficient CTE2, whereby the absolute difference between CTE1 and CTE2 is at most 0.40×10 -6 / ℃ or less (|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.40×10 -6 / °C), preferably at most 0.30×10 -6 / ℃(|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.30×10 -6 / °C), more preferably at most 0.20×10 -6 / ℃ or less (|CTE1-CTE2|≦0.20×10 -6 / °C). Ideally, the first and second glass panes have the same coefficient of thermal expansion (|CTE1-CTE2|=0 / °C). The "coefficient of thermal expansion" (CTE) is a measure of how an object changes size with a change in temperature. Specifically, it measures the fractional change in volume of a glass pane per degree of temperature change at constant pressure.

[0073] In some embodiments of the invention, a functional coating such as a low-emissivity coating, a solar control coating (heat-reflecting coating), an anti-reflective coating, an anti-fog coating, preferably a heat-reflecting coating or a low-emissivity coating, may be provided on at least one of the glass panes of the multiple glazing unit. Preferably, the inner pane surface of the first and / or second glass pane, the inner pane surface and / or the outer pane surface of the third glass pane and / or the outer sheet surface of the glass sheet are provided with at least a heat-reflecting coating or a low-emissivity coating when one of the glass panes of the multiple glazing unit is further laminated to the glass sheet.

[0074] In one embodiment, the outer pane surface (12) of the first glass pane may be provided with at least one spall-shielding polymeric film, preferably a polyester spall-shielding film.

[0075] The insulating glazing of the present invention is typically used to close openings in partitions in buildings, in vehicles such as cars, trains, ships, and in appliances such as refrigerators, coolers, etc. The partitions typically separate the outside environment from an interior space, such as the interior of a building or car. In the present invention, the insulating glazing can be used such that a single pane of glass faces the outside environment or the interior space, preferably facing the outside environment.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is in no way limited to the above preferred embodiment. Rather, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. It is further noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of the features and preferred features described herein and recited in the claims. As used herein, the terms "a", "an" or "the" mean at least "one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless otherwise specified, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the terms first, second and the like in the present specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe any order in time, space, order or any other manner. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 10. Double Glazing 20 Vacuum Insulated Glazing Unit GP1 1st Glass Pane 11 Inner pane surface of first glass pane 12 Outer pane surface of first glass pane Z1 Thickness of the first glass pane GP2 Second Glass Pane 21 Inner pane surface of second glass pane 22 Outer pane surface of second glass pane Z2 Thickness of the second glass pane 3 Discrete Spacers 4 VIG airtight adhesive seal 5. Low-emissivity coating V VIG internal volume 6 Periphery spacer GP3 3rd Glass Pane 31 Inner pane surface of third glass pane 32 Outer pane surface of third glass pane Z3 Third glass pane thickness Sp internal space

Claims

1. A multi-layer glazing (10) extending along a plane P defined by a longitudinal axis X and a perpendicular axis Y, said multi-layer glazing (10) comprising at least, a. A vacuum-insulated glazing unit, i. A first glass pane GP1 having a thickness Z1 and an inner pane surface (11) and an outer pane surface (12), and a second glass pane GP2 having a thickness Z2 and an inner pane surface (21) and an outer pane surface (22), wherein said thicknesses are measured in a direction perpendicular to said plane P, ii. A set of discrete spacers (3) positioned between said first glass pane and said second glass pane and maintaining the distance between said first glass pane and said second glass pane, iii. A hermetic adhesive seal (4) sealing the distance between said first glass pane and said second glass pane over its perimeter, iv. An internal volume V defined by said first and second glass panes and said set of discrete spacers and closed by said hermetic adhesive seal, in which a vacuum with a pressure of less than 0.1 mbar is present and said inner pane surface faces said internal volume V, internal volume V, comprising a vacuum-insulated glazing unit; b. A third glass pane GP3 having an inner pane surface (31) and an outer pane surface (32); c. A peripheral spacer (6) positioned over its perimeter between the outer pane surface (22) of said second glass pane GP2 and the inner pane surface (31) of said third glass pane GP3 and maintaining the distance therebetween, said peripheral spacer (6), outer pane surface (22), and inner pane surface (31) defining an internal space Sp, peripheral spacer (6); comprising, wherein the thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of said first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of said second glass pane is 1.10 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≧ 1.10), and said second glass pane GP2 faces said internal space Sp, multi-layer glazing (10).

2. The vacuum-insulated glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane that is 1.20 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≥ 1.20), preferably 1.30 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≥ 1.30), preferably 1.50 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≥ 1.50), preferably 1.55 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≥ 1.55), more preferably 1.60 or more (Z1 / Z2 ≥ 1.60), for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1.

3. The vacuum-insulated glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 of the thickness Z1 of the first glass pane to the thickness Z2 of the second glass pane that is 6.00 or less (Z1 / Z2 ≤ 6.00), 4.00 or less (Z1 / Z2 ≤ 4.00), 2.50 or less (Z1 / Z2 ≤ 2.50), for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The vacuum-insulated glazing unit has a thickness ratio Z1 / Z2 in the range of 1.20 to 1.60 (1.20 ≤ Z1 / Z2 ≤ 1.60), preferably 1.30 to 1.60 (1.30 ≤ Z1 / Z2 ≤ 1.60), for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The thickness Z2 of the second glass pane is 1 mm to 8 mm (1 mm ≤ Z2 ≤ 8 mm), preferably 2 mm to 6 mm (2 mm ≤ Z2 ≤ 6 mm), for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The thickness Z1 of the first glass pane is 2 mm to 10 mm (2 mm ≤ Z1 ≤ 10 mm), preferably 3 mm to 8 mm (3 mm ≤ Z1 ≤ 8 mm), for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

7. At least one of the inner pane surface of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface of the third glass pane, the outer pane surface of the second glass pane and / or the outer pane surface of the first glass pane is laminated to at least one glass sheet by a polymer intermediate layer to form a laminated glass pane, for the multilayer glazing according to claim 1.

8. The outer pane surface of the first glass pane is laminated to at least one glass sheet by a polymer intermediate layer to form a laminated glass pane, for the multilayer glazing according to claim 7.

9. The glass sheet has a thickness Zs in the range of 1 mm to 8 mm (1 mm ≤ Zs ≤ 8 mm), preferably 1 mm to 6 mm (1 mm ≤ Zs ≤ 6 mm), more preferably 2 mm to 4 mm (2 mm ≤ Zs ≤ 4 mm), preferably equal to 4 mm (Zs = 4 mm), measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, and is the multilayer glazing according to claim 7 or 8.

10. The third glass pane has a thickness Z3 in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm ≤ Z3 ≤ 8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm ≤ Z3 ≤ 6 mm), measured in a direction perpendicular to the plane P, and the third glass pane is preferably laminated to a glass sheet having a thickness Zs in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm ≤ Zs ≤ 8 mm), preferably 4 mm to 6 mm (4 mm ≤ Zs ≤ 6 mm), by an acoustic PVB polymer interlayer, and is the multilayer glazing according to claim 7 or 8.

11. The multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least a functional coating, preferably a heat ray reflecting coating or a low emissivity coating, on at least one of the glass pane surfaces.

12. The set of discrete spacers forms an array having a pitch of 15 mm to 80 mm, preferably 15 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 15 to 40 mm, more preferably 15 mm to 25 mm, and even more preferably about 20 mm, and is the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The first glass pane has a linear thermal expansion coefficient CTE1, the second glass pane has a linear thermal expansion coefficient CTE2, and the absolute difference between CTE1 and CTE2 is at most 1.2×10 －６ / °C (|CTE1 - CTE2| ≤ 1.2×10 －６ / °C), preferably at most 0.8×10 －６ / °C (|CTE1 - CTE2| ≤ 0.8×10 －６ / °C), more preferably at most 0.4×10 －６ / °C (|CTE1 - CTE2| ≤ 0.4×10 －６ / °C), more preferably at most 0.2×10 －６ / °C (|CTE1 - CTE2| ≤ 0.2×10 －６ / °C), and even more preferably equal to 0 (|CTE1 - CTE2| = 0 / °C), the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

14. One of the glass panes of the multilayer glazing is prestressed glass, and preferably, the first glass pane and / or the third glass pane is prestressed glass, or preferably, the second glass pane is prestressed glass, and is the multilayer glazing according to claim 1 or 2.

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