LOW THERMAL CONDUCTION SEPARATOR MOUNTING FOR AN INSULATING GLAZED UNIT

Abstract

This document provides a spacer for an insulated glazing unit (IGU), along with an IGU and methods for manufacturing the spacer and the IGU. The spacer imparts high thermal insulation to the IGU. Methods for preparing an insulated glazing unit and methods for preparing a spacer for an IGU are also provided.

Description

LOW THERMAL CONDUCTION SEPARATOR MOUNTING FOR AN INSULATING GLAZED UNIT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION This document provides information on insulated glazing units, spacers for insulated glazing units, and methods for making insulated glazing units. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED TECHNIQUE The glass in a conventional architectural window is thermally highly emissive. Solar energy passes easily through this type of glass. To reduce the amount of solar energy transmitted, low-emissivity coatings are applied to the glass. These coatings act as thermal barriers, decreasing the emission of radiant infrared (IR) energy, particularly thermal infrared energy. The lower the emissivity, the better the coating is at blocking the emission of thermal IR energy. The heat transfer of an insulating glazing unit (IGU) can be controlled by a variety of factors, including the design of a separator frame between panels (glass sheets, panes, etc.) within the IGU, and the structure and composition of the panels. Numerous IGUs and IGU separator structures have been described, such as those in U.S. Patents Nos. 3,981,111; 5,377,473; 5,705,010; 6,823,644; 8,586,193; 8,789,343; 9,127,502; 9,546,513; and 9,617,781, which exhibit considerable variation in heat transfer resistance, complexity, and manufacturing complexity. Heat transfer in IGUs has been measured in numerous ways. The overall heat transfer coefficient (U-factor) is a measure of heat loss through the window. The lower the U-factor, the less heat is transferred through the window, indicating a higher level of window insulation. The U-factor is specific to a particular IGU. The resistance or Res value (e.g., h °F in / BTU) is a measure of edge resistance or heat loss through the window. - 2 unit length of an edge portion of an IGU, for example, determined by the separating composition and structure, and is independent of the overall size of the IGU. Edge assemblies and IGUs often require multiple manufacturing stages and human intervention. Therefore, an IGU and a separator or separator frame for an IGU that has a superior heat transfer profile, for example, a high Res value, and which can be manufactured with minimal human intervention is most desirable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect of the invention, an insulating glazing unit is provided. The insulating glazing unit comprises: a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having a first larger surface (surface 1) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 2) and marginal edges, the second panel having a first larger surface (surface 3) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 4) and marginal edges;a metallic spacer formed from a single metallic sheet, having an inner side and an opposite outer side, adhesively fixed to the marginal portions of surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel and supporting the first and second panels in a separate configuration, wherein the inward side of the spacer, surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel define a sealed compartment, the spacer comprising: a first wall on a first lateral side of the spacer adjacent to surface 2 of the first panel, having a larger flat portion and comprising a first lip extending from an inner side of the first wall towards surface 3 of the second panel;a second wall on a second lateral side of the divider opposite the first wall and adjacent to surface 3 of the second panel, having a larger flat portion and comprising a second lip extending inward from a side of the second wall toward surface 2 of the first panel, wherein the first and second lips define a parting opening in the compartment, and a central portion extending from a marginal side of the first wall opposite the first lip to a marginal side of the second wall opposite the second lip, comprising two or more longitudinal projections with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first wall and a ML / - 3 adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley on the inner side of the separator, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting to the second wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley on the inner side of the separator, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys on the inner side of the separator, each projection comprising a plurality of walls comprising parallel portions, parallel to each other, with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls; and desiccant placed in a central valley. In another aspect, a spacer is provided for an insulated glazing unit. The spacer comprises a single metal sheet formed into a structure comprising: an elongated corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections; a first elongated wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a first larger edge of the corrugated portion; a second elongated lateral wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a second larger edge of the corrugated portion in the same direction as the first elongated wall; a first lip extending from the first elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the second elongated lateral wall; and a second lip extending from the second elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the first elongated lateral wall and defining a separation between the first lip and the second lip.The corrugated portion comprises two or more longitudinal projections, with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting adjacent longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys, each projection comprising a plurality of walls, with crest portions and connecting adjacent walls. In another aspect, a spacer is provided for use in an insulated glazing unit. The spacer is formed from a single sheet of stainless steel or tin-plated steel and comprises side walls connected by a central portion comprising from two to four longitudinal projections, where the AND / - 4 The spacer width is not greater than 35% of the linear width of the metal bent to form the spacer, and wherein, when assembled into an insulating glazing unit, it has a Res ((cm-h-°C) / J (in-hour-°F) / BTU) value of at least 0.254 (190), 0.261 (195), 0.267 (200), 0.274 (205), 0.281 (210), or 0.287 (215), optionally, as defined by the inverse of the flux of (J / h.°C.cm (BTU / h.°F.in)) that occurs from the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the inside side of the unit to the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the outside of the unit, per unit temperature increase (0.55°C (1°F)), per unit length of the edge-mounting perimeter (cm (inch)), and where the glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal.Also provided is an insulated glazing unit comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having a first larger surface (surface 1) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 2) and marginal edges, the second panel having a first larger surface (surface 3) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 4) and marginal edges; and the spacer, having an inner side and an opposing outer side, adhesively fixed to the marginal portions of surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel and supporting the first and second panels in a separate configuration, with the inner side of the spacer, surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel defining a sealed compartment. In a further aspect, a method for preparing an insulating glazing unit is provided. The method comprises fixing a spacer, as described in the preceding paragraphs, between a first glazing panel and a second glazing panel with an adhesive to the marginal portions of a larger surface of the first and second panels, keeping the first and second panels in a separate configuration, thereby defining a compartment. In another aspect, a method is provided for preparing a separator from an insulated glazing unit. The method comprises rolling a metal sheet into an elongated unit comprising: an elongated corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections; and a first elongated side wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a first edge. - 5 larger of the corrugated portion; a second elongated lateral wall, having a larger flat portion and extending from a second larger edge of the corrugated portion in the same direction as the first elongated wall; a first lip extending from the first elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the second elongated lateral wall; and a second lip extending from the second elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the first elongated lateral wall and defining a separation between the first lip and the second lip;the corrugated portion comprises two or more longitudinal projections, with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting adjacent longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys, each projection comprising a plurality of walls with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls. The present invention also relates to the following clauses. Clause 1: An insulating glazing unit comprising: a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having a first larger surface (surface 1) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 2) and marginal edges, the second panel having a first larger surface (surface 3) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 4) and marginal edges; a metal spacer formed from a single metal sheet, having an inner side and an opposing outer side, adhesively fixed to the marginal portions of surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel and supporting the first and second panels in a separate configuration, with the inner side of the spacer, surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel defining a sealed compartment, wherein the metal spacer comprises: a first wall on a first lateral side of the metal separator adjacent to surface 2 of the first panel, having a larger flat portion and comprising a first lip extending inwards from one side of the first - 6 wall, towards surface 3 of the second panel; a second wall on a second lateral side of the partition opposite the first wall and adjacent to surface 3 of the second panel, having a larger flat portion and comprising a second lip extending from an inward side of the second wall to surface 2 of the first panel, wherein the first and second lips define a partition opening in the compartment, and a central portion extending from a marginal side of the first wall opposite the first lip to a marginal side of the second wall opposite the second lip, comprising two or more longitudinal projections with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley on the inner side of the partition, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley on the inner side of the partition,and one or more central valley portions between and connecting longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys on the inner side of the separator, each projection comprising a plurality of walls comprising parallel portions, parallel to each other, with crest portions and connecting adjacent walls; and desiccant placed in a central valley. Clause 2: The insulating glazing unit of clause 1, wherein the first and second side valleys are desiccant-free. Clause 3: The insulating glazing unit of clause 1 or 2, wherein the first wall is substantially parallel to the first panel and the second wall is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the second panel. Clause 4: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the height of the projections varies from 50% to 80% of the height of the separator. Clause 5: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the flat portions of the walls of the projections are parallel to the flat portion of the first wall, the second wall, or both the first and second walls. Clause 6: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses a 5, wherein one or more crest portions and / or one or more valley portions comprise a flat portion perpendicular to, or substantially perpendicular to, the walls of the projections. Clause 7: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 6, further comprising a side fold extending from the first wall to the first side valley and / or from the second wall to the second side valley at an angle of less than 90° from a plane of the flat portion of the first and / or second wall. Clause 8: The insulating glazing unit of clause 7, wherein the angle of the side fold or folds varies from 5° to 85°, from 30° to 60°, for example, 30°, 40°, 45°, 50° or 60°, from a plane of the flat portion of the first and / or second wall. Clause 9: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the adhesive between surface 2 of the first panel and the first wall adjacent to the first panel covers at least a portion of the outer side of the first side valley portion, and the adhesive between surface 3 of the second panel and the second wall adjacent to the second panel covers at least a portion of the outer side of the second side valley portion, and wherein the remainder of the outer side of the spacer is in contact with a gas or insulating material. Clause 10: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the first panel and the second panel are transparent. Clause 11: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 10, wherein one or both of the first panel and the second panel comprise low-emissivity glass. Clause 12: The insulating glazing unit of any of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein the spacer has a Res (cm-h-°C / J (in-h-°F) / BTU) value of at least 0.254 (190), 0.261 (195), 0.267 (200), 0.274 (205), 0.281 (210), or 0.287 (215), optionally as defined by the inverse of the flux (J / h.°C.cm (BTU / h.°F.in)) that occurs from the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the inside side of the unit to the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the outside of the unit, per unit temperature increment (0.55°C (1°F)), per unit length of the edge mounting perimeter (cm (in)), and wherein the - 8 glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal. Clause 13: The insulating glass unit of any of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the separator comprises stainless steel or tin-coated steel. Clause 14: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the width of the spacer is no greater than 35% of the linear width of the metal folded to form the spacer. Clause 15: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the separator comprises three longitudinal projections. Clause 16: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 15, wherein the separator forms a contiguous frame surrounding and forming an airtight seal around the compartment. Clause 17: The insulating glazing unit of clause 16, wherein the compartment is filled with an inert gas, such as argon. Clause 18: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 17, wherein the adhesive is further extended between the first and second panels below the valley portions and within a space formed between the adjacent walls and the connecting ridge portions of the projections. Clause 19: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 17, wherein a barrier member extends across the valley portions of the spacer and the adhesive extends further between the first and second panels below the valley portions and a barrier member so that the adhesive does not enter into the space formed between the adjacent walls and the connecting ridge portions of the projections. Clause 20: The insulating glazing unit of any of clauses 1 to 19, wherein the adhesive comprises a portion of polyisobutylene and a portion of silicone. Clause 21: A separator for an insulating glazing unit, comprising a single metal sheet formed within a structure comprising: an elongated corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections; - 9 a first elongated side wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a first larger edge of the corrugated portion; a second elongated lateral wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a second larger edge of the corrugated portion in the same direction as the first elongated wall; a first lip extending from the first elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending towards the second elongated lateral wall; and a second lip extending from the second elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending towards the first elongated lateral wall and defining a separation between the first lip and the second lip; The corrugated portion comprises two or more longitudinal projections, with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting adjacent longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys, each projection comprising a plurality of walls, with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls. Clause 22: The separator of clause 21, wherein a larger flat portion of the first elongated side wall is parallel to a larger flat portion of the second elongated side wall. Clause 23: The separator of clause 21 or 22, wherein the longitudinal projections extend from 50% to 80% of the height of the separator. Clause 24: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the plurality of walls of the projections are substantially parallel to the first elongated side wall and / or the second elongated side wall. Clause 25: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 24, wherein one or more of the crests and / or one or more of the valleys comprise a flat portion substantially perpendicular to the walls of the projections. Clause 26: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 25, which - 10 further comprises a lateral fold extending from the first wall to the first lateral valley and / or from the second wall to the second lateral valley at an angle of less than 90° from the plane of the larger flat portions of the first and / or second elongated lateral walls. Clause 27: The separator of clause 26, wherein the angle of the side fold or folds varies from 5° to 85°, from 30° to 60°, for example, 30°, 40°, 45°, 50° or 60°, with respect to the plane of the larger flat portions of the first and / or second elongated side walls. Clause 28: The spacer of any of Clauses 21 to 27, wherein, when assembled into an insulating glazing unit, it has a Res value (cm-h-°C / J (in-h-°F) / BTU) of at least 0.254 (190), 0.261 (195), 0.267 (200), 0.274 (205), 0.281 (210), or 0.287 (215), optionally as defined by the inverse of the flux (J / h.°C.cm (BTU / h.°F.in)) produced from the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the inside side of the unit to the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the outside of the unit per unit temperature increase (0.55°C (1°F)) per unit length of the edge mounting perimeter (cm (in)), and where the glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal. Clause 29: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 28, comprising stainless steel or tin-plated steel. Clause 30: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 29, wherein the separator comprises three longitudinal projections. Clause 31: The separator of any of clauses 21 to 30, comprising desiccant placed in a central valley, wherein the first and second side valleys are free of desiccant. Clause 32: The spacer of any of clauses 21 to 31, wherein the width of the spacer is not greater than 35% of the linear width of the metal bent to form the spacer. Clause 33: The spacer of any of clauses 21 to 32, wherein the adhesive extends further between the first and second panels below the valley portions and within the space formed between the adjacent walls and the MA / t / ZUZZ / Utfl^MO - 11 portions of the connecting ridge of the projections. Clause 34: The spacer of any of clauses 21 to 32, wherein a barrier member extends across the valley portions of the spacer and the adhesive extends further between the first and second panels below the valley portions and the barrier member so that the adhesive does not enter a space formed between the adjacent walls and the connecting ridge portions of the projections. Clause 35: A method for preparing an insulating glazing unit, comprising fixing a spacer according to any of clauses 21 to 34 between a first glazing panel and a second glazing panel with a spacer fixed with an adhesive to marginal portions of a larger surface of the first panel and the second panel, securing the first and second panels in a separate configuration, thereby defining a compartment. Clause 36: The method of clause 35, where the compartment is airtight. Clause 37: The method of clause 36, wherein the compartment is filled with an inert gas or a mixture of air and an inert gas. Clause 38: The method of clause 37, wherein the compartment is filled with at least 90% argon. Clause 39: The method of any of clauses 37 to 38, further comprising depositing a desiccant into one or more of the central valleys within the compartment, and leaving the lateral valleys of the compartment free of desiccant. Clause 40: The method of any of clauses 35 to 39, wherein the first panel and the second panel are transparent. Clause 41: The method of any of clauses 35 to 40, wherein one or both of the first panel and the second panel comprise low-emissivity glass. Clause 42: The method of any of clauses 35 to 41, further comprising narrowing at least the first and second lips of the separator and optionally a portion of the first and second walls adjacent to the lips, at a fold-over location on the separator, and folding the separator towards the narrowings at MÁ / t / ZUZZ / USlW - 12 the folding location. Clause 43: The method of any of clauses 35 to 42, comprising, in order, applying adhesive to the spacer, bending the spacer to align with marginal portions of the panels, and securing the spacer between the first glazing panel and the second glazing panel. Clause 44: The method of any of clauses 35 to 43, wherein the adhesive comprises a portion of polyisobutylene and a portion of silicone. Clause 45: A method for preparing a separator for an insulated glazing unit, comprising rolling a metal sheet into an elongated unit comprising: an elongated corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections: a first elongated side wall, having a larger flat portion and extending from a first larger edge of the corrugated portion; a second elongated lateral wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a second larger edge of the corrugated portion in the same direction as the first elongated wall; a first lip extending from the first elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending towards the second elongated lateral wall; and a second lip extending from the second elongated lateral wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending towards the first elongated lateral wall and defining a separation between the first lip and the second lip; a corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections, with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting adjacent longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys, each projection comprising a plurality of walls, with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls. - 13 Clause 46: The method of clause 45, further comprising forming corner clearances in the metal sheet of the roller-formed separator at corner locations in the metal sheet or separator. Clause 47: The method of clause 45 or 46, which further comprises forming stamped ends on the metal sheet or the roller-formed separator. Clause 48: The method of any of clauses 45 to 47, further comprising cutting the separator into a single frame length after rolling the separator. Clause 49: The method of any of clauses 45 to 48, further comprising applying one or more adhesives to the outside side of the longitudinal walls. Clause 50: The method of any of clauses 45 to 49, further comprising applying a desiccant matrix to a central valley on the inside side of the separator formed without a desiccant matrix applied to the corner locations of the separator. Clause 51: The method of clause 50, further comprising folding the separator into the separator frame using one or more internal dies. Clause 52: The method of any of clauses 45 through 51, wherein, when assembled into an insulating glazing unit, the spacer has a Res value (cm-h-°C / J (in-h-°F) / BTU) of at least 0.254 (190), 0.261 (195), 0.267 (200), 0.274 (205), 0.281 (210), or 0.287 (215), optionally as defined by the inverse of the flux (J / h.°C.cm (BTU / h.°F.in)) that occurs from the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the inside side of the unit to the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the outside of the unit per unit temperature increment (0.55°C (1°F)) per unit length of the edge mounting perimeter (cm (inch)) and where the glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal. Clause 53: The method of any of clauses 45 to 52, carried out as a continuous automated process on a single manufacturing line. Clause 54: A spacer for use in an insulated glazing unit formed from a single sheet of stainless steel or tin-coated steel, which - 14 comprises side walls connected by a central portion comprising from two to four longitudinal projections, wherein the width of the spacer is no greater than 35% of the linear width of the metal bent to form the spacer, and wherein, when assembled into an insulating glazing unit, it has a Res value (cm-h-°C / J (in-h-°F) / BTU) of at least 0.254 (190), 0.261 (195), 0.267 (200), 0.274 (205), 0.281 (210) or 0.287 (215), optionally as defined by the inverse flux of (J / h.°C.cm (BTU / h.°F.in)) that occurs from the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the inside side of the unit to the contact surface of the glass and the adhesive layer on the outside of the unit, or unit temperature increase (0.55°C (1°F)) per unit length of edge mounting perimeter (cm (inch)), and where the glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal. Clause 55: An insulated glazing unit comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having a first larger surface (surface 1) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 2) and marginal edges, the second panel having a first larger surface (surface 3) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 4) and marginal edges; and the spacer of clause 54 having an inner side and an opposing outer side, adhesively fixed to the marginal portions of surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel and supporting the first and second panels in a separate configuration, with the inner side of the spacer, surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel defining a sealed compartment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figures 1A and IB schematically show the general structure of the exemplary insulating glazing units (IGUs). Figure 2 provides a schematic elevation view (left) and cross-section (right) at A of the elevation view of an IGU as described herein. Figures 3A and 3B provide schematic cross-sectional views of a peripheral portion of an IGU showing examples of a separator, as described herein. - 15 Figure 3C provides a schematic cross-sectional view of a peripheral portion of an IGU showing examples of a separator as described herein with certain through portions disseminated with additional adhesive. The 3D figure provides a schematic cross-sectional view of a peripheral portion of an IGU showing examples of a separator as described herein with a barrier member extending through the valley portions of the separator and additional adhesive spread through other portions. Figures 4A and 4B provide schematic cross-sectional views of a peripheral portion of an IGU showing examples of a separator as described herein. Figure 5 schematically shows a step-by-step roll forming process useful in the preparation of the separators described herein. Figure 6 is a flowchart that provides an overview of a method for preparing an IGU as described herein. Figure 7 provides two views of a divider essentially as shown in Figure 3B, including corner clearances and stamped ends. The cross-section shown in the lower figure is at point A in the upper figure. Figure 8 schematically shows a partition partially (left) and fully (right) folded in a partition frame for use in an IGU. Figures 9A and 9B schematically show an internal die for use in folding a separator as described herein. Figure 9B is a cross-section of the die in Figure 9A at B, rotated 90° with respect to A. Figures 10A and 10B schematically show an external die for use in folding a separator as described herein. Figure 10B is a cross-section of the die in Figure 10A at A and rotated 90° at B. Figure 11 is a schematic partial view of the internal and external dies in use for bending a separator. Figure 12 shows a metal sheet (above) and a separator formed from the metal sheet (below). - 16 Figure 13 provides a schematic diagram of experimental separator 2. Figure 14 provides a schematic diagram of experimental separator 4. Figure 15 shows the INTERCEPT ULTRA stainless steel separator for comparison. Figure 16 provides a schematic diagram of experimental separator 3. Figure 17 is a table that provides the dimensions of the exemplary separators as described in Example 5. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION As used herein, spatial or directional terms such as left, right, inside, outside, up, down, and the like relate to the invention as shown in the figures. However, it should be understood that the invention can assume various alternative orientations, and consequently, these terms should not be considered limiting. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Furthermore, as used herein, all numbers expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, processing parameters, ingredient quantities, reaction conditions, and the like used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified, in all instances, by the term approximately.Consequently, unless otherwise stated, the numerical values ​​stated in the following specification and claims may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be achieved by the present invention. Finally, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical value should be considered at least on the basis of the number of significant digits reported and applying customary rounding techniques. Furthermore, all intervals described herein should be understood to encompass the values ​​at the beginning and end of the interval and any and all sub-intervals included therein. For example, a stated interval from 1 to 10 should be considered to include any and all sub-intervals. - 17 secondary intervals between (and including) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all secondary intervals that begin with a minimum value of 1 or greater and end with a maximum value of 10 or less, for example, 1 to 3.3, 4.7 to 7.5, 5.5 to 10, and so forth. The terms "a" or "one" refer to one or more. The articles described herein typically, but not exclusively, find use in architecture. The articles may be described with reference to their use in an insulating glazing unit (IGU). In an IGU, a spacer described herein may be used to separate two panels, such as the panels used in architectural transparent articles. As used herein, the term architectural transparent article refers to any transparent article located in a building, such as, but not limited to, windows and skylights.However, it should be understood that the articles described herein are not limited to the use of these architectural transparent materials but can be implemented with transparent materials in any desired field, such as, but not limited to, laminated or non-laminated residential and / or commercial windows, insulating glass units, and / or transparent materials for land, air, space, on-water, and underwater vehicles. In another aspect or embodiment, the coated articles, as described herein, are transparent materials for use in a vehicle, such as a window or sunroof. Therefore, it should be understood that the exemplary aspects or embodiments specifically described are presented merely to illustrate the general concepts of the invention and that the invention is not limited to these specific exemplary embodiments.Additionally, although a transparent material may have sufficient visible light transmission, such as materials that can be seen through it, the transparent material does not need to be transparent to visible light; it can be translucent or opaque. That is, the term "transparent" indicates that it has visible light transmission of more than 0% up to 100%. A non-limiting transparent material 10 is illustrated in Figure 1A. The transparent material 10 can have any desired transmission, transmittance, absorption and / or reflection properties of visible light, infrared radiation or ultraviolet radiation. MA / t / ZUZZ / USl^JO - 18 The transparent material 10 of Figure 1A is in the form of a conventional insulating glass unit and includes a first panel 12 or layer with a first major surface 14 (surface No. 1) and an opposing second major surface 16 (surface No. 2). In common use, when installed in a building, the first major surface 14 faces the exterior of the building, for example, an exterior major surface, and the second major surface 16 faces the interior of the building. The transparent material 10 also includes a second panel 18 or layer having a (first) interior major surface 20 (surface No. 3) and a (second) exterior major surface 22 (surface No. 4) and is separate from the first layer 12. This numbering of the panel or layer surfaces is to maintain consistency with conventional practice in the art of fenestration.In the context of the articles provided herein, the first and second panels 12, 18 are connected using a spacer frame 24 (spacer) as described herein. A space or chamber 26 is formed between the two panels 12, 18. The chamber 26 may be filled with a selected atmosphere, such as air, or a non-reactive gas such as argon or krypton gas. A solar control coating 30 (or any of the other coatings described below) may be formed on at least a portion of one of the layers 12, 18, such as, but not limited to, on at least a portion of surface No. 2 16 or at least a portion of surface No. 3 20. Although the coating may also be on surface No. 1 or surface No. 4, if desired. The panels 12, 18 may be identical or different. Non-limiting examples of insulating glass units can be found, for example, in patents U.S. Nos. 4,193,236; 4,464,874; 5,088,258; and 5,106,663. Figure IB shows transparent material 10', which is a variation of transparent material 10 shown in Figure 1A. The transparent material 10' in Figure IB is in the form of a conventional insulating glass unit and includes a panel 12' or layer with a first major surface 14' (surface No. 1) and an opposing second major surface 16' (surface No. 2). In common use, when installed in a building, the first major surface 14' faces the exterior of the building, for example, an exterior major surface, and the second major surface 16' faces the interior of the building. Transparent material 10' also includes a second panel 18' or - A 19-layer having a (first) inner major surface 20' (surface No. 3) and a (second) outer major surface 22' (surface No. 4) and separated from the first layer by 12'. A third panel 26' is positioned between the first panel 12' and the second panel 18'. The first and third panels 12', 26' are connected using a spacer frame 24' (spacer) as described herein. The second and third panels 18', 26' are connected using a spacer frame 24' (spacer) as described herein. Separations or chambers 26', 26' are formed between the panels 12', 26' and between the panels 18', 26', respectively. The chambers 26', 26' can be filled with a selected atmosphere such as air, or a non-reactive gas such as argon or krypton. The 12', 18' and 26' panels can be the same or different. As indicated above, in the broad practice of the invention, the panels 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' of the transparent material 10.10' may be of the same or different materials and may have the same or different dimensions. The panels 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' may include any desired material having any desired characteristic. For example, one or more of the panels 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' may be transparent or translucent to visible light. The term "transparent" means having visible light transmission of more than 0% up to 100%. Alternatively, one or more of the panels 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' may be translucent. Translucent means that they allow electromagnetic energy (e.g., visible light) to pass through but diffuse that energy so that objects on the opposite side from the observer are not clearly visible.Examples of suitable materials for the panels include, but are not limited to, plastic substrates (such as acrylic polymers, such as polyacrylates; polyalkyl methacrylates, such as polymethyl methacrylates, polyethylene methacrylates, polypropyl methacrylates, and the like; polyurethanes; polycarbonates; polyalkyl terephthalates, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene terephthalates, polybutylene terephthalates, and the like; polymers containing polysiloxane; or copolymers of any of the monomers used to prepare these or any mixture thereof); ceramic substrates; glass substrates; or mixtures or combinations of any of the foregoing. For example, one or more of panels 12, 18, 12', 18, 26' may include conventional sodium hydroxide-lime-silicate glass. - 20% borosilicate or leaded glass. The glass may be clear glass. Clear glass means glass without tint or color. Alternatively, the glass may be tinted or otherwise colored. The glass may be annealed or heat-treated. As used herein, the term heat-treated means tempered or at least partially tempered. The glass may be of any type, such as conventional float glass, and may be of any composition having any optical property, for example, any value of visible light transmission, ultraviolet light transmission, infrared light transmission, and / or solar energy transmission. The term float glass means glass formed by a conventional float process in which molten glass is placed on a bath of molten metal and cooled in a controllable manner to form float glass sheets.Examples of float glass processes are described in US patents No. 4,466,562 and 4,671,155. Panels 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' may each comprise, for example, clear float glass, or may be tinted or colored glass, or one panel 12, 18, 12', 18', 26' may be clear glass and one or more of the other panels 12, 18, 12', 18', 26' may be colored glass. Non-limiting examples of glass suitable for panels 12, 18, 12', 18', 26' are described in US Patents Nos. 4,746,347; 4,792,536; 5,030,593; 5,030,594; 5,240,886; 5,385,872; and 5,393,593. The 12, 18, 12', 18', and 26' panels can be of any desired dimensions, such as length, width, shape, or thickness. In an example automotive clear material, the first and second layers can each be 1 mm to 10 mm thick, such as 1 mm to 8 mm, 2 mm to 8 mm, 3 mm to 7 mm, 5 mm to 7 mm, or 6 mm thick.Non-limiting examples of glass that can be used for panels include clear glass, StarphireMR, SolargreenMR, SolextraMR, GL-20MR, GL-35MR, SolarbronzeMR, SolargrayMR glass, PacificaMR glass, SolarBlueMR glass, and OptiblueMR glass. The solar control coating 30, 130 of the invention is deposited on at least a portion of at least a larger surface of one of the panels 12, 18, 12', 18', 26'. In the example according to Figure IA, the coating 30 is formed on at least a portion of the inner surface 16 of the outer glass layer 12; - 21 In addition or alternatively, it shall be understood that in the non-limiting examples consistent with the present description, a coating may be formed on at least a portion of the inner surface 20 of the inner glass panel 18. As used herein, the term solar control coating refers to a coating consisting of one or more layers of films that alter the overall properties of the coated article, such as, but not limited to, the amount of solar radiation, for example, visible, infrared, or ultraviolet radiation, that is reflected from, absorbed by, or passes through the coated article; shading coefficient, emissivity, etc. The solar control coating 30 may block, absorb, or filter selected portions of the solar spectrum, such as, but not limited to, IR, UV, and / or visible spectra. The coatings may be deposited by any useful method, such as, but not limited to, conventional chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and / or physical vapor deposition (PVD) methods. Examples of CVD processes include spray pyrolysis. Examples of PVD processes include electron beam evaporation and vacuum electrodeposition (such as magnetron vacuum vapor deposition (MSVD)). Other coating methods may also be used, such as, but not limited to, sol-gel deposition. In a non-limiting embodiment, Coating 30,130 is deposited by MSVD. Examples of MSVD coating devices and methods will be readily understood by a person generally skilled in the field and are described, for example, and without limitation, in U.S. Patents Nos. 4,379,040; 4,861,669; 4,898,789; 4,898,790; 4,900,633; 4,920,006; 4,938,857; 5,328,768 and 5,492,750. Figure 2 is an elevation view (left) and a cross-sectional view (right) of an insulating glazing unit (IGU) 100 with a central area 102 and a peripheral area 104 defined by the dotted line. The cross-sectional view shows panels 112, 118 and compartment 124. The peripheral area may comprise an area extending any suitable distance such as, but not limited to, from 2.54 cm (1) to 61 cm (24), including any increments therein such as 2.54 cm (1), 5.1 cm (2), 7.6 cm (3), 10 cm (4), 13 cm (5), 15 cm (6), 18 cm (7), 20 cm (8), 23 cm (9), 25 cm (10), 28 cm (11), or 30 cm (12) from an edge of the panel, and which may depend on the - 22 dimensions of the IGU. The peripheral area can be peripheral, that is, in a direction towards the edges of the IGU, from the line of sight of the IGU 100. According to a particular aspect or modality, a partition is provided for use in an IGU, as described in relation to Figures 1A, 1B, and 2. Each of Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B shows cross-sections of exemplary partitions incorporated in an IGU. Figure 3A shows a peripheral portion 204 of an IGU 200, and shows a first panel 212, a second panel 218, and a partition 224 defining a chamber 226, for example, as described in relation to Figures 1A, 1B, and 2 (chambers 26, 26', 26, 126). For simplicity, Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B show only a peripheral portion of one side of the IGU. The spacer is attached and extends continuously around the peripheral portion 204 of the IGU 200, for example, as shown in Figure 2. Adhesive 230 is used to fix the spacer 224 between panels 212, 218.The separator comprises side walls 232, 232', each having a lip 234, 234' extending inward toward the opposite lip 234, 234'. The lips 234, 234' define a space between them. Three longitudinally extending projections, 236, 236', and 236, are shown extending along the length of the separator 224. The projections 236, 236', and 236 each comprise two walls 238 connected by a ridge portion 240 (marked in Figure 3A only for the first side projection 236). The lateral projections 236 and 236 are joined to adjacent side walls 232 and 232' and the projections 236, 236'.236 are joined together by a valley portion 242, which defines, on the chamber or inner side of the separator 224, lateral valleys 244 and central valleys 244'. A desiccant matrix 246 is deposited in the central valleys 244'. Figure 3B shows a peripheral portion of an IGU 300, substantially as described with respect to Figure 3A. The spacer 324 is fixed to panels 212, 218 using two different adhesives 330 and 331. Adhesive 330 can be hot-melt butyl, polyisobutylene (PIB), or heat-curable material, and adhesive 331 can be silicone, polysulfide, polyurethane, hot-applied butyl, or heat-curable material. The spacer 324 includes two longitudinally extending projections 336, 336' that define a central valley 344 within which a desiccant matrix 346 is deposited. A gap G between the lips 334 and 334' is shown, with ML / - 23 The separator height Hs, and the projection height Hr 336, 336', measurements which are applicable to the various examples of separators described herein. The separator height Hs and the projection height Hr are measured in the same direction and can be measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the separator, and parallel to the panels or side walls of the separator, representing the shortest distance from the most peripheral point, for example, the bottom of the valleys, and the innermost point, for example, the lips or the space between the lips of the separator. Figure 3C shows a further variation of the spacer 224 of Figure 3A. As shown in Figure 3C, the adhesive 231 is distributed between panels 212 and 218 below the valley portions 242. The adhesive 231 is also distributed within the space 233 formed between the two walls 238 and the connecting ridge portions 240 of the projections 236, 236', 236. It is appreciated that the adhesive 231 can comprise any of the materials previously described with respect to adhesive 331, such as, for example, silicone, polysulfide, polyurethane, hot-applied butyl, or a heat-curable material. Figure 3D shows yet another variation of the 224 separator from Figures 3A and 3C. As shown in Figure 3D, a barrier member 241 is placed across the valley portions 242 and extends across the entirety of the valley portions 242 to block access to the space 233 formed between the two walls 238 and the connecting ridge portions 240 of the projections 236, 236', 236. As further shown in Figure 3D, adhesive 231 is distributed between panels 212 and 218 below the valley points 242. Because the barrier member 241 is placed across the valley portions 242, the adhesive 231 does not enter the space 233 formed between the two walls 238 and the connecting ridge portions 240 of the projections 236, 236', 236. Rather, the space 233 formed between the two walls 238 and the Portions of the connection crest 240 of the projections 236, 236', 236 are filled with air.The barrier member 241 may comprise any material that can be attached to the valley portions 242 and which prevents the adhesive 231 from entering the space 233, such as, for example, a tape that can be attached to the valley portions 242 and prevents the adhesive 231 from entering the space 233. It is appreciated that less adhesive 231 is used to cover the area under the. - 24 valley portions 242 when barrier member 241 is used. Figures 4A and 4B show IGUs 400, 400' which include variations of the separator 224 and 324 of Figures 3A and 3B, respectively. All elements of IGUs 400, 400' are essentially as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. The separators 424, 424' comprise side walls 432, 432' and side valleys 442, 442' with side folds 433, 433' connecting the side walls 432, 432' and side valleys 442, 442'. The lateral folds 433, 433' extend at an angle θ from a plane P of the lateral walls 432, 432', as shown in Figure 4B, which can be any angle Θ between 0° and 90°, such as 5°, 10°, 22.5°, 30°, 45°, or 60°, and can be the same or different for lateral folds 433 and 433'. In a variation of the overhangs shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the crest portions 440 and the mid-valley portions 443 are square, or comprise flat portions perpendicular to the lateral walls 432.The square formation of the valley portions 443 and the crest portions 440 imparts different mechanical strength to the spacer 424 and therefore to the IGU 400, allowing for adjustments to the IGU's mechanical strength, for example, its susceptibility to compression. Optionally, the lateral valley portions 442 can be square-shaped, as can the central valley portions 443. Any of the IGUs described herein may independently include more or less rounded or more or less square crest and / or valley portions, depending on the design variations. A spacer, as described herein, for example in Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, can be formed from a single sheet of metal. The metal from which the spacer is formed can be stainless steel or tin-plated steel. A spacer frame surrounding the internal cavity of an IGU, as described herein, can be formed from a single contiguous sheet of metal or by joining two or more separate spacer frame portions formed from two or more sheets of metal. For ease of manufacture, it may be preferable for the spacer frame to be formed from a single sheet of metal, for example, as described below. In the context of the IGUs and separators described herein, the term parallel means that a portion of a mentioned element, for example a wall - 25 of the partition is parallel to the plane of the datum feature, such as a panel, within practical manufacturing tolerances, for example, within ±1° of the parallel condition. Substantially parallel means that a portion of the aforementioned feature, such as a partition wall, is parallel to, or within ±1°, ±2°, ±3°, ±4°, or ±5° of the plane of the datum feature, such as a panel. Similarly, perpendicular means that a portion of the aforementioned feature, such as a partition wall, is perpendicular to the plane of the datum feature, such as a panel, within practical manufacturing tolerances, for example, within ±1° of the perpendicular (90°).The term substantially perpendicular refers to a portion of a mentioned element, such as a partition wall, which is perpendicular to, or within ±1o, ±2o, ±3o, ±4oo, ±5o of a plane perpendicular to the plane of the reference element, such as a panel. The term "desiccant-free," for example, in the context of valleys formed by projections on the inner side of the separator, indicates that the valleys, for example, the side valleys, contain no desiccant or contain only small amounts of desiccant, for example, compared to the central valleys, for example, as a result of deposition inaccuracies or movement of the desiccant matrix during the manufacture of an isolated glazing unit, within manufacturing tolerances. Separators can be prepared by any useful method. Because separators can be prepared from a single roll of accumulated metal, roll forming may be preferred for preparing the separator, as schematically described in Figure 5. In roll forming, a strip of metal passes through sets of rollers mounted on consecutive supports, each set performing only an incremental part of the desired bend, until the desired cross-section (profile) is obtained. In Figure 5, the coiled metal concentrate is uncoiled and fed sequentially through roller stations (not shown) to produce the accumulated separator. With reference to Figure 5, the left portion shows the forming process progressing from a sheet (bottom portion, showing the first incremental fold to form the lips) to a fully formed separator profile. - 26 formed (top). In Figure 5, right side, the sheet is shown overlapped at various stages of folding to illustrate the folding progress and the increments at each stage (bottom) for an example of a spacer configuration. A spacer profile shown in Figure 5, although it can be any spacer profile, such as those shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, or 4B, can be prepared in this manner. The spacer is cut to length after roll forming, and the linear key tongue is stamped for joining at the end of the spacer after folding. Corner clearances, end stampings, and window spacer bar locators can be cut into the metal concentrate before roll forming or after roll forming the spacer.An adhesive, such as hot-melt butyl or a heat-curable material, and a desiccant matrix, such as a polyisobutylene (PIB) adhesive, are applied to the spacer after forming and cutting. The desiccant matrix is ​​deposited in the central valleys of the spacer, not in the lateral valleys, before, during, or after the adhesive is applied to the side walls, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B. The desiccant matrix is ​​not applied at the corners, i.e., in or adjacent to the corner clearances cut into the spacer. Continuing along the production line, after roll forming and deposition of the adhesive and desiccant, the spacer can be bent into shape using internal and external forming dies, and the stamped ends can be joined by any suitable method. Figure 6 is a flow diagram providing an overview of a method 500 for preparing an IGU as described herein, which can be carried out as a continuous process that is substantially automated (see Examples 1 and 2 below). As described in relation to Figure 5, the wound-up material is formed onto rolls and cut 502 into individual separator units. Desiccant and adhesive are then applied 504. Using internal and external dies, the separator is bent 506 into the desired shape, such as a rectangular frame. The frame is further processed 508 by adding panels in air or an inert gas within the inner compartment. Window separators can also be added at this stage 508. MÁ / t / ZUZZ / USlW Steps 502, 504, and 506 can be fully automated. Step 508 can be fully automated, or workers can assist in the assembly of the IGU. Figure 7 shows an example of a spacer 624. Figure 7 provides two views of a spacer essentially as shown in Figure 3B, including corner clearances 650 and stamped ends 652, which aid in forming a spacer frame from the spacer. Figure 8 shows the spacer 624 of Figure 7 partially folded (left) with the stamped ends unjoined, and fully folded (right) with the stamped ends locked in place. The stamped ends can be locked in place by any useful method, whether mechanically, for example, using tabs, welding, or by any other useful method. The separator, such as the separator as shown in Figures 7 and 8, can be bent as shown in Figure 8 by a bending mandrel using internal and external dies. Figures 9A and 9B schematically show an internal die 700, wherein Figure 9B is rotated 90°, as shown in Figure 9A by the letter A. Figure 9B is a cross-section of the internal die 700 device at B. The internal die 700 includes protrusions 702 that match the internal shape of a separator, such as the separator 324 in Figure 3B, showing the upper limits U and lower limits L or the boundaries of the protrusions 702. The internal die 700 is connected to any suitable mechanical actuator by means of a rod 704. As can be recognized, the actuation of the internal die 700 can be carried out by a significant variety of mechanical mechanisms; a rod and a suitable actuator for the rod, such as a cam or lever (not shown), are merely illustrative. Figures 10a and 10B show the external die 710, wherein Figure 10B has been rotated 90°, as shown in Figure 10A with the letter B. Figure 10B is a cross-section of 10A at A. The external die 710 includes protrusions 712 and peripheral guides 714 and can be attached to any suitable mechanical actuator by means of the rod 716. As will be recognized by any person with a general understanding, the actuation of the external die 710 can be carried out by a variety of means. MA / - 28 significant mechanical mechanisms, a rod and a suitable actuator for the rod, such as a cam or lever (not shown), which are only exemplary. The inner die 700 fits or is housed within the outer die 710, with space suitable to accommodate the thickness of a spacer placed between dies 700 and 710. The tip 720 of the inner die 700 may be rounded. Figure 10A shows the upper limits or boundaries U and the lower limits or boundaries L of the protrusions 712. Figure 11 shows dies 700 and 710 in use. Die 700 is positioned internally to a spacer 724 at a location in the corner clearance 750, and external die 710 is aligned externally to spacer 724. As described herein, the area of ​​corner clearance 750 is free of desiccant and adhesive to facilitate the bending process. The protrusions of the internal and external dies 700 and 710 align with projections on spacer 724. The protrusions of dies 700 and 710 and the projections on spacer 724 are not shown in Figure 11 for clarity. The inner and outer dies 700, 710 move together, as shown by the arrows (top) and fold the separator 724 into a final folded configuration (bottom) with the edges of the corner clearance 751 either matching each other or, alternatively, overlapping or not matching, depending on the shape of the corner clearance 750.The use of the two dies 700, 710 in the bending mandrel results in a bent corner with metal from the separator being bent and / or stretched in the mandrel bending process. The spacers described herein exhibit exceptional insulation, e.g., Res values, when incorporated into an IGU. Figure 12 shows a metal sheet 800 and a spacer formed from metal sheet 824, essentially as shown in Figure 3A. The metal sheet has a linear width WSh and is folded lengthwise to form a spacer with a width Wsp. In certain aspects, the spacer is folded in a way that Wsp / Wsh x 100% is 36% or less, e.g., 25% or less, 20% or less, or 15% or less, e.g., ranging from 15% to 35% or from 21% to 30%. This high degree of folding results in superior resistance to heat flow, or insulating capacity, when incorporated into an IGU. In certain respects, the thermal resistance (Res value [(cm-h-°C) / J (in-29 h-°F) / BTU)] of the separator when incorporated into an IGU is at least 0.234 (175), at least 0.254 (190), at least 0.234 (175), at least 0.254 (190), at least 0.261 (195), at least 0.267 (200), at least 0.274 (205), at least 0.281 (210), or at least 0.287 (215). U.S. Patent Nos. 5,655,282; 5,675,944 and 6,115,989, among many others, describe IGUs, methods for manufacturing IGUs, and various applicable standards for determining the insulating capacity of IGUs. IGUs can be used to reduce heat transfer between the exterior and interior of a house or other structures. One commonly used measure of insulation value is the U-value. The U-value is the measure of heat in British thermal units (BTUs) (Joules in the SI system) that passes through the unit per hour (h) - square foot (ft²) - degree Fahrenheit (°F) (formula 1): BTU (h)(ft2WF) The lower the U-value, the better the thermal insulation of the unit; for example, greater resistance to heat flow results in less heat being conducted through the unit. Another measure of insulation value is the R-value, which is the inverse of the U-value. An additional measure is the resistance to heat flow (Res value), which is expressed in h-°F per BTU per inch (h-°C per J per cm) of the unit's perimeter (formula 2). W(°F) BTU / ink λ Modeling software, such as the ANSYS finite element code (i.e., ANSYS; Finite Element Program {FEA}, version 14, SAS IC, Inc. 2012), can be used to determine the Res value (see, for example, European Patent Application Publication No. 0 475 213 A1 and US Patents Nos. 5,531,047 and 5,655,282). The result of the ANSYS calculation depends on the geometry of the edge assembly's cross-section and the thermal conductivity of its constituents. The geometry of any cross-section can be measured by studying the assembly. - 30 edge unit. In some respects, the edge-mount resistance (h-°C-cm / J (h-°F-in / BTU)) is defined by the inverse of the flux (J / h-°C-cm (BTU / h-°F-in)) calculated by ANSYS from the contact surface of the glass and adhesive layer on the inside of the unit relative to the contact surface of the glass and adhesive layer on the outside of the unit per unit temperature increase (0.55°C (1°F)) per unit length of the edge-mount perimeter (in cm (in in)). The glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal for the sake of simplicity. Thus, in certain examples, a separator and an IGU are provided, wherein the separator is formed from a single folded sheet of metal, such as stainless steel or tin-coated steel sheet, wherein Wsp / Wsh X 100% is 36% or less, at most 35%, for example, 25% or less, 20% or less, or 15% or less, for example, ranging from 15% to 35% or from 21% to 30%, and having a Res value of at least 0.233 (175), at least 0.254 (190), at least 0.233 (175), at least 0.254 (190), at least 0.261 (195), at least 0.267 (200), at least 0.274 (205), or at least 0.281 (210), or at least 0.287 (215), when the separator is incorporated into an IGU. COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 1 The spacers are automatically formed as follows: a flat metal roll is supplied from an uncoiler to feed a press where the corners, window spacer bar locators, corner tabs, and gas-fill holes are punched. After punching, the accumulated flat roll advances to a roll former where it is bent into the registered U-shape. At the roll former's exit, the individual IGU spacers are automatically cut to length, the corner tabs are stamped, and they are fed via a conveyor belt to an adhesive and desiccant die extruder. The adhesive (usually a hot-melt butyl or heat-curable material) and desiccant matrix are applied by the extruder in a linear manner to the unbent separator as it moves along a conveyor belt. - 31 A double separator worker (to which adhesive and desiccant matrix have been applied) inserts the preformed tab to create a rectangular shape and hangs it on the conveyor at the top. Two glass sheets are washed in a horizontal washer and advanced to the upper separator placement station. One worker removes a separator from the upper conveyor and, with the help of a second worker, places the separator onto the first glass sheet. The two workers then place the second glass sheet on top of the separator. Low-strength adhesion is established by the initial bonded adhesive, and the IGU advances to a heated oven / roller press. The final overall thickness, adhesive bond line width, and adhesion are achieved through high heating and pressure via continuous movement of the oven / roller press.Workers inspect and unload the IGUs and place them on transport racks for cooling. After the IGUs reach room temperature, they are filled with argon using lances, in batches of five at a time by a worker. Once the argon filling is complete, screws are inserted into the filling holes, and a heat-fused butyl patch is applied by a worker. The IGUs are then finished and ready for installation in the window frames. COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 2 A metallic separator material is formed by rollers and cut to standard lengths. This is often done at a dedicated plant outside the IGU manufacturing facility. A section of the formed separator metal is cut to length by a worker. The separator metal is bent into the desired rectangular shape (formed corners) by a worker. A worker drills holes in the separator to allow for desiccant bed filling. The desiccant beds are injected into the separator by the same worker. The drilled holes are manually patched by closing them with thin tape or butyl adhesive by the same worker. A primary adhesive (polyisobutylene or PIB) is applied by a worker using a carriage wheel motion by a PIB extruder. The separator is placed on an overhead conveyor. The first sheet of glass comes off the vertical glass washing machine and advances to the upper separator placement station.The separator is removed from the upper conveyor and placed by a worker. - 32 on the first pane of glass. The glass and spacer advance to the argon-filled press. The second pane of glass exits the wash and advances to the argon-filled press. The two panes of glass are flooded with argon and pressed together. Low-strength adhesion is achieved by PIB, forming the IGU. The IGU advances to the secondary adhesive robot. The secondary adhesive (usually silicone or polysulfide—sometimes polyurethane, hot-applied butyl, or a heat-curable material) is applied to the back of the spacer. The finished IGU exits the robotic sealer, is inspected, and then removed from the manufacturing line. The IGUs are finished and ready for installation in the window frame. COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 3 Metal spacer material is formed by rollers and cut to standard lengths (e.g., approximately 53 cm (21 ft) long). This is often done at a dedicated plant off-site at the IGU manufacturing facility. A section of the formed spacer metal is cut to length by a worker. A linear key is inserted into one end of the spacer by a worker. Desiccant beads are supplied as filler through the open end. The spacer metal is bent into the desired rectangular shape (corners are formed). Primary adhesive (PIB) is applied by a worker using a trolley wheel motion with a PIB extruder. The spacer is placed on an overhead conveyor. The first sheet of glass comes off the vertical glass wash and advances to the overhead spacer placement station. The spacer is removed from the overhead conveyor and placed by a worker onto the first sheet of glass.The glass and spacer advance to the argon-filling press. The second pane exits the bath and advances to the argon-filling press. The two glass panes are flooded with argon and pressed together. Low-strength adhesion is achieved using PIB, forming the IGU. The IGU advances to the secondary adhesive robot. A portion of the secondary silicone adhesive is applied to the back of the spacer. The finished IGU exits the robotic sealer, is inspected, and then removed from the manufacturing line. The IGUs are finished and ready for installation in the window frame. EXAMPLE 1 - SINGLE-SEAL INSULATING GLASS - 33. Spacers are automatically formed by the machine in the following order: a flat metal coil is fed from an uncoiler to a feeder press where window spacer bar locators and corner clearances are punched. After punching, the accumulated flat coil advances to a roll former where it is bent into the registered shape. At the roll former's output, individual IGU spacers are automatically cut to length, the linear key tab is stamped, and it is fed by conveyor belt to the adhesive and desiccant die extruder. The adhesive matrix (usually a hot-melt butyl or heat-curable material) and desiccant are applied linearly by the extruder to the unfolded separator as it moves along a conveyor belt. Desiccant is not applied to the corner areas. The separator bender bends the separator using internal and external forming dies, referred to herein as mandrel bending. The same machine inserts the stamped end of the separator into the back end of the separator. Separator joining techniques may include spot welding, positive immobilization / matching stamping sections, adhesive sticky materials, and thin foil tapes. The finished separator is collected by an automated overhead conveyor. Two sheets of glass are washed in a horizontal washer and advanced to an upper separator placement station. A worker removes a separator from the upper conveyor and, with the help of a second worker, places the separator on the first sheet of glass. The two workers then place the second sheet of glass on top of the separator. Low-strength adhesion is established through the bonding of the initial adhesive, and the IGU advances to the heated oven / roller press. The final overall thickness, adhesive bond line width, and adhesion are achieved by high heat and pressure through continuous movement in the oven / roller press. The workers inspect the product that has come out of the IGUs and the - 34 are placed on transport cabinets for cooling. After the IGUs reach room temperature, they are filled with argon by means of lances in batches of 5 at a time by a worker. After the argon filling is complete, screws are inserted into the filled holes and a hot-melt butyl patch is applied by a worker. The IGUs are then finished and ready for installation in the window frames. EXAMPLE 2 - DOUBLE-SEALED INSULATING GLASS The spacers are automatically formed by the machine in the following order: a flat metal roll is fed from an uncoiler to a feeder press where spacer bar locators and corner clearances are punched. After punching, the accumulated flat roll advances to a roll former where it is bent into the registered shape. At the roll former's output, individual IGU spacers are automatically cut to length, the linear key tab is stamped, and they are fed via a conveyor belt to a primary adhesive and desiccant die extruder. The primary adhesive matrix (e.g., polyisobutylene, PIB) and desiccant are applied linearly by the extruder to the unbent separator as it moves along the conveyor belt. The desiccant matrix is ​​not applied to the corner areas. The separator bender bends the separator using internal and external forming dies. This action is described as mandrel bending. The same machine inserts the stamped end of the separator into the back end of the separator. Separator joining techniques may include spot welding, positive immobilization / matching stamped sections, adhesive glues, and / or thin foil tapes. The finished separator is collected by an automated overhead conveyor. The first sheet of glass comes out of the vertical glass wash and advances to the upper separator placement station. The separator is removed from the upper conveyor and placed by a worker onto the first sheet of glass. The glass and separator then advance to the press. - 35 argon filling. The second glass comes out of the washing machine and moves to the argon filling press. The two glass sheets are flooded with argon and pressed together. Low-strength adhesion is achieved through PIB, forming the IGU. The IGU then moves to a secondary adhesive robot. Secondary adhesive (usually silicone or polysulfide, sometimes polyurethane, hot-applied butyl, or a heat-curable material) is applied to the back of the spacer. The finished IGU exits the sealing robot, is inspected, and then removed from the manufacturing line. The IGUs are now finished and ready for installation in the window frame. EXAMPLE 3 - DOUBLE-SEAL INSULATING GLASS WITH BARRIER MEMBER The spacers are automatically formed by the machine in the following order: a flat metal roll is fed from an uncoiler to a feeder press where spacer bar locators and corner clearances are punched. After punching, the accumulated flat roll advances to a roll former where it is bent into the registered shape. At the roll former's output, the individual IGU spacers are automatically cut to length, the linear key tab is stamped, and they are fed to a barrier member applicator (for example, a pressure-sensitive tape). They then advance via conveyor belt to the primary adhesive and desiccant die extruder. The primary adhesive (e.g., polyisobutylene, PIB) and the desiccant matrix are applied linearly by the extruder to the unbent separator as it moves along the conveyor belt. The desiccant matrix is ​​not applied to the corner areas. The spacer bender bends the spacer using internal and external forming dies. This action is described as mandrel bending. The machine inserts the stamped end of the spacer into a back end of the spacer. Spacer joining techniques may include spot welding and clamping. MA / t / ZUZZ / Ub - 36 positive / matching stamping sections, adhesive glues and / or thin foil tapes. The finished separator is collected by an automated overhead conveyor. The first sheet of glass comes out of the vertical glass wash and advances to the upper separator placement station. The separator is removed from the upper conveyor and placed by a worker onto the first sheet of glass. The glass and separator then move to the argon-filled press. The second glass comes out of the washing machine and moves to the argon filling press. The two glass sheets are flooded with argon and pressed together. Low-strength adhesion is achieved through PIB, forming the IGU. The IGU then moves to the secondary adhesive robot. Secondary adhesive (usually silicone or polysulfide, sometimes polyurethane, hot-applied butyl, or a heat-curable material) is applied to the back of the separator. The finished IGU exits the sealing robot, is inspected, and then removed from the manufacturing line. The IGUs are now finished and ready for installation in the window frame. EXAMPLE 4 - DETERMINATION OF FACTOR U Simulation results were obtained for fourteen spacers in a generic vinyl window frame and evaluated with fourteen different spacers. The collected data included the U-factor (center of glass and total product) and the glass temperature at the threshold sections. The imported glass option in each window was a 3 mm Vitro Solarban MR60 coated window pane with a 13 mm (1 / 2") argon 90% / air 10% gap between the pane and the 3 mm clear window pane. The 13 mm (1 / 2") gap was adjusted if the spacer and adhesive were not manufactured to that exact dimension. All software used is from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and is considered the industry standard: the Windows 7 software used is version 7.4.14.0; the Therm 7 software used is version 7.4.4.0; the International Glazing Database used is version 60. Table 1 includes the U-factor of the glass center, U-factor of the product of MA / t / ZUZZ / USl^JO - 37 total window and the temperature of the inner surface of the threshold glass at the line of sight of the glass for experimental separator 1, essentially as shown in Figure 3A, and various comparative examples. EXPERIMENTAL SEPARATOR 1 • Separator height: 8 mm (0.300 in) • Projection spacing: 3.1 mm (0.122 in) • Metal thickness: 195 µm (0.0077 in) • Projection height: 4.8 mm (0.190 in) • Overall separator width: 11 mm (0.450 in) • Adhesive thickness: 0.60 mm (0.0235 in) • Adhesive height: 6.9 mm (0.273 in) • Metal conductivity, emissivity: 495 J / hcm°C (7.875 BTU / hft-°F), 0.9 • Adhesive conductivity, emissivity: 8.74 J / h-cm-°C (0.139 BTU / h-ft-°F), 0.9 • Desiccant matrix conductivity, emissivity: 10.6 J / h-cm-°C (0.168 BTU / h-ft-°F), 0.9 Table 1 IVIA / t / ZUZZ / Uy I4Ó0 Spacer option Argon space, in cm (inches) COG U factor Total U factor Glass threshold temperature (°C (°F)) Vitro Intercept Ultra 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2617 2.9 (37.3) Vitro Intercept Thinplate 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2693 1.7 (35.0) Vitro Intercept Tinplate 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2704 1.5 (34.7) Super Spacer Standard with 4.8 mm (3 / 16) secondary seal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2593 3.3 (37.9) Super Spacer Premium Plus Enhanced with 4.8 mm (3 / 16) secondary seal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2591 3.3 (38.0) Duralite 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2539 4.2 (39.6) Duraseal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2654 2.4 (36.4) Tremco EnerEDGE with 4.8 mm (3 / 16) secondary seal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2572 3.6 (38.6) Kommerling Kodispace 4SG TPS 0.2471 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2581 3.6 (38.4) Cardinal XL Edge 12 (0.490) 0.2469 0.2632 2.7 (36.8) Cardinal Endur 12 (0.490) 0.2469 0.2606 3.1 (37.5) Swiss Spacer Ultimate with 4.8 mm (3 / 16) secondary seal 13 (0.517) 0.2483 0.2578 3.8 (38.8) Allmetal Aluminum with 4.8 mm (3 / 16) secondary seal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2847 -1.8 (28.8) Intercept QUANTUM SingleSeal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2547 3.7 (38.6) Intercept QUANTUM DualSeal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2538 3.7 (38.7) Intercept QUANTUM Thinplate SingleSeal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2624 2.5 (36.5) Intercept QUANTUM Thinplate DualSeal 13 (0.500) 0.2471 0.2614 2.7 (36.8) MA / t / ZUZZ / USl^JO EXAMPLE 4 - DETERMINATION OF RES VALUE The Res values ​​were modeled for a number of variations of the separator described herein and compared with values ​​obtained from commercial comparative examples, as well as other separator variations. The Res values, or edge resistance values ​​((cm-h-°C) / J (in-h-°F) / BTU)), were determined essentially as described in European Patent Application Publication No. 0 475 213 A1 and US Patents Nos. 5,531,047 and 5,655,282, among others. Briefly, the edge resistance of the edge mounting (h-°C-cm / J (h-°F-in / BTU)) is defined by the inverse of the flux (I / h-°C-cm (BTU / h-°F-in)) calculated by ANSYS, which occurs from the contact surface of the glass and adhesive layer on the inside of the unit relative to the contact surface of the glass and adhesive layer on the outside of the unit per unit temperature increase (0.55°C (1°F)) per unit of - 39 Edge mounting perimeter length (cm (inches)). Glass / adhesive contact surfaces are assumed to be isothermal for model simplification. Figure 3A shows the 224 separator, which has the profile of experimental separator 1. Figure 13 provides schematic diagrams of experimental separator 2. Figure 3B shows the 324 separator, which has the profile of experimental separator 3 (see also Figure 16). Figure 14 provides schematic diagrams of experimental separator 4. Figure 15 shows the INTERCEPT ULTRA Stainless Steel comparator. The Res values ​​for these separators are shown in Table 2. Table 2 Separator technology value Res [(cm-h-°C) / J (in-h-°F) / BTU)] Intercept ULTRA Stainless Steel 0.140(105) experimental separator 4 0.170(127) experimental separator 2 0.184(138) experimental separator 3 0.250(187) experimental separator 1 0.289 (216) EXAMPLE 5 - EXPERIMENTAL SEPARATORS Figure 17 provides a table supplying the dimensions of exemplary spacers for the spacers described herein. With reference to Figure 12, Wspes is the spacer width, and WSh refers to the width of the metal strip or roll used to manufacture the spacer. Single seal refers to the use of a single adhesive, and double seal refers to the use of two adhesives, for example, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, respectively. The frame configuration is with reference to Figures 3A (configuration A) and 3B (configuration B). For all examples, the size and shape of the central region between the side walls remain constant. In another example, for spacers that are 12 mm (15 / 32 in) wide, the width of the metal in the central folded region, excluding the side walls and lips, is 25.9 mm (1.019 in) for a single-seal spacer and 22.8 mm for a double-seal spacer. - 40 (0.897) for a double seal separator. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the field that modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the concepts described in the preceding description. Consequently, the specific embodiments described in detail herein are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention, which is to be considered as being supplied with the full scope of the appended claims and any and all of their equivalents.

Claims

1. An insulating glazing unit, characterized in that it comprises: a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having a first larger surface (surface 1) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 2) and marginal edges, the second panel having a first larger surface (surface 3) and an opposing second larger surface (surface 4) and marginal edges; a metal spacer formed from a single metal sheet, having an inner side and an opposing outer side, adhesively fixed to the marginal portions of surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel and supporting the first and second panels in a separate configuration, with the inner side of the metal spacer, surface 2 of the first panel and surface 3 of the second panel defining a sealed compartment, the metal spacer comprising: a first wall on a first lateral side of the spacer adjacent to surface 2 of the first panel,having a larger flat portion and comprising a first lip extending from an inward side of the first wall to surface 3 of the second panel; a second wall on a second lateral side of the partition opposite the first wall and adjacent to surface 3 of the second panel, having a larger flat portion and comprising a second lip extending from an inward side of the second wall to surface 2 of the first panel, wherein the first and second lips define an opening space within the compartment; and a central portion extending from a marginal side of the first wall opposite the first lip to a marginal side of the second wall opposite the second lip, comprising two or more longitudinal projections with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first wall and the adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley on the inner side of the partition,and a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley on the inner side of the separator, and one or more central valley portions between and - 42 connecting the longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys on the inner side of the separator, each projection comprising a plurality of walls comprising parallel portions, parallel to each other, with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls; and desiccant placed in a central valley.

2. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second lateral valleys are free of desiccant.

3. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the first wall is substantially parallel to the first panel and the second wall is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the first panel.

4. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the height of the projections varies from 50% to 80% of the height of the separator.

5. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the flat portions of the walls of the projections are parallel to the flat portion of the first wall, the second wall, or both the first and second walls.

6. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that one or more of the crest portions and / or one or more of the valley portions comprise a flat portion perpendicular to, or substantially perpendicular to, the walls of the projections.

7. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a lateral fold extending from the first wall to the first lateral valley and / or from the second wall to the second lateral valley at an angle of less than 90° from a plane of the flat portion of the first and / or second wall.

8. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the adhesive between the surface 2 of the first panel and the first wall adjacent to the first panel covers at least a portion of the outer side - 43 of the first side valley portion, and the adhesive between the surface 3 of the second panel and the second wall adjacent to the second panel covers at least a portion of the outer side of the second side valley portion, and wherein the remainder of the outer side of the separator is in contact with a gas or an insulating material.

9. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the width of the separator is no greater than 35% of the linear width of the metal folded to form the separator.

10. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the separator comprises three longitudinal projections.

11. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the separator forms a continuous frame that surrounds and forms an airtight seal around the compartment.

12. The insulating glazing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the adhesive comprises a polyisobutylene portion and a silicone portion.

13. A spacer for an insulated glazing unit, characterized in that it comprises a single metal sheet formed into a structure comprising: an elongated corrugated portion comprising two or more longitudinal projections; a first elongated side wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a first larger edge of the corrugated portion; a second elongated side wall having a larger flat portion and extending from a second larger edge of the corrugated portion in the same direction as the first elongated wall; a first lip extending from the first elongated side wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the second elongated side wall; and a second lip extending from the second elongated side wall opposite the corrugated portion and extending into the first elongated side wall and defining a space between the first lip and the second lip;the corrugated portion comprises two or more longitudinal projections, with a first lateral valley portion between and connecting the first elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a first lateral valley, a second lateral valley portion between and connecting the second elongated lateral wall and an adjacent projection and defining a second lateral valley, and one or more central valley portions between and connecting adjacent longitudinal projections and defining one or more central valleys, each projection comprising a plurality of walls, with ridge portions connecting adjacent walls.

14. The separator according to claim 13, characterized in that a larger flat portion of the first elongated side wall is parallel to a larger flat portion of the second elongated side wall.

15. The separator according to claim 13, characterized in that the plurality of walls of the projections are substantially parallel to the first elongated side wall and / or the second elongated side wall.

16. The separator according to claim 13, characterized in that one or more of the ridges and / or one or more of the valleys comprise a flat portion substantially perpendicular to the walls of the projections.

17. A method for preparing an insulating glazing unit, characterized in that it comprises fixing a separator according to claim 13 between a first glazing panel and a second glazing panel with the separator fixed with an adhesive marginal portions of a larger surface of the first panel and the second panel, keeping the first and second panels in a separate configuration, thereby defining a compartment.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises depositing a desiccant into one or more of the central valleys within the compartment, and leaving the lateral valleys of the compartment free of desiccant.

19. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises narrowing at least the first and second lips of the separator and optionally a portion of the first and second walls adjacent to the lips, at a bend location on the separator, and bending the separator towards the - 45 narrowings at the bend location.

20. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises, in order, applying adhesive to the spacer, bending the spacer to align with marginal portions of the panels, and fixing the spacer between the first glazing panel and the second glazing panel.

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