Corner connector for fire-resistant glazing units

Abstract

The present invention relates to a corner connector (I) for connecting two ends of at least one profiled strip in fire-resistant glazing units, comprising two plug-in legs (31) suitable for plugging into or plugging onto a profiled strip (1), a connecting region (34) which connects the two plug-in legs (31), an outer surface (36), two lateral surfaces (37) and an inner surface (38), wherein - a recess (33) is provided in the corner connector (I), which extends from the outer surface (36) of the corner connector (I) to the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), and - a plug (32) is inserted into the recess (33), starting from the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), which closes the recess (33).

Description

[0001] Corner connectors for fire-resistant glazing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0009] DE102018109278B4 discloses a spacer frame for fire-resistant glazing with corner connectors. The corner connectors include a filling opening for filling a flowable fire-resistant compound. The filling opening consists of a hole in the corner area of ​​the corner connector, through which a lance can be inserted into the fire-resistant glazing blank for filling. When removing the lance, some of the fire-resistant compound can flow back if the filling opening is not closed quickly enough. After filling, the filling opening is closed by means of a plug from the outside, i.e., from the environment and not from the inner cavity between the panes.

[0010] KR 101 159 188 B1 discloses a window system in which an airtight space is formed on an existing window frame using an airtight frame and an airtight window pane. A plug is inserted into the frame body from the outside.

[0011] DE 33 24 646 A1 discloses an insulating glass pane using a corner joint provided with a bore. After the side surfaces of the spacer frame have been bonded to the glass panes, the space between the glass panes and the outer wall of the spacer frame is filled with a sealant. To prevent the bore of the corner joint from becoming blocked, a plug is inserted into the bore before the sealant is applied; this plug does not form an adhesive bond with the sealant. After the sealant has set, the plug is removed, and the interior of the insulating glass pane is flushed with a gas. After the gas flushing is complete, a plug is inserted into the bore from the outside. Accordingly, DE 33 24 646 A1 discloses a corner joint with a plug inserted from the outside.

[0012] There is a need for corner connectors for fire-resistant glazing that allow for easy filling of the fire-resistant glazing, for fire-resistant glazing that can be filled in a simple manner, and for a method for filling fire-resistant glazing. The present invention is based on the object of providing such a corner connector, a fire-resistant glazing, and an improved method for filling the fire-resistant glazing. The object of the present invention is achieved according to the invention by a corner connector according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are evident from the subclaims. A fire-resistant glazing according to the invention and a method for its production are evident from further independent claims.

[0013] The corner connector according to the invention for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip in fire-resistant glazing comprises two plug-in legs, suitable for plugging into or plugging onto a profile strip, a connecting region which connects the two plug-in legs, an outer surface, two side surfaces and an inner surface, wherein a recess is provided in the corner connector which extends from the outer surface of the corner connector to the inner surface of the corner connector, and a plug, starting from the inner surface of the corner connector, is inserted into the recess and closes the recess.

[0014] The corner connector according to the invention features a recess extending from the outer surface of the corner connector to the inner surface. The recess thus connects the outer surface of the corner connector to its inner surface and is thus continuous throughout the corner connector.

[0015] A plug is inserted into the recess of the corner connector, starting from the inner surface of the corner connector. This means that the plug is inserted from the side of the corner connector that is aligned with the inner cavity when installed. "Into the recess" means that the plug is arranged inside the recess and inserted into the recess between the inner and outer surfaces of the corner connector. Depending on its design and geometry, a plug inserted into the recess can also extend out of the recess and protrude beyond the inner surface of the corner connector into the inner cavity of the fire-resistant glazing and / or beyond the outer surface of the corner connector into the outer cavity of the fire-resistant glazing. The plug inserted in the recess closes the recess.This means that when the plug is inserted into the recess, a flowable fire protection compound, for example, cannot flow through the recess from the inner cavity between the panes toward the surrounding area. The corner connector according to the invention enables simple, bubble-free filling of fire-resistant glazing with fire protection compound, preventing the backflow of the fire protection compound after the filling process. This prevents the formation of air bubbles in the inner cavity between the panes. The plug is easily integrated into the spacer frame via the corner connector.

[0016] The cross-section of the corner connector recess can be freely selected depending on the geometry of the plug to be inserted. For example, the recess can have a round, oval, or square cross-section.

[0017] The corner connector is suitable for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip for fire-resistant glazing. These profile strips are known to those skilled in the art and are used as spacers in fire-resistant glazing. The corner connector comprises at least two plug-in legs and a connecting area that connects the two plug-in legs to one another. The two plug-in legs are each suitable for being inserted into one end of a profile strip or plugged onto one end of a profile strip, thus creating a connection between the ends of at least one profile strip. The connecting area connects the two plug-in legs to one another and is not intended to be inserted into or plugged onto a profile strip. The corner connector comprises an outer surface, an inner surface, and two side surfaces.The outer surface of the finished fire-resistant glazing faces the environment and the inner surface of the finished fire-resistant glazing faces the inner cavity between the panes. The side surfaces are the surfaces of the corner connector that face towards the panes of fire-resistant glazing. Along the plug-in legs, the side surfaces are in contact with the side surfaces of the spacer after being inserted into or plugged onto the spacer. When the plug-in legs are inserted into the spacer, the side surfaces of the spacer are in contact with the panes of the fire-resistant glazing. When the plug-in legs are plugged onto the spacer, the legs are in contact with the panes of the fire-resistant glazing. In the connection area, the corner connector protrudes from the spacer profiles so that the side surfaces in this area are in contact with the panes.The side surfaces in the connection area are designed so that the outer panes of the fire-resistant glazing can be attached there using a suitable sealant. The corner connector connects the ends of one or two profile strips that are assembled to form a spacer frame. The two plug-in legs are fixed in or on the profile strip(s) and are partially enclosed by them. Once the plug-in legs have been connected to a profile strip, the side surfaces of the connection area and the outer surface of the connection area are exposed. The side surfaces are the surfaces that face the outer panes in the finished fire-resistant glazing and are arranged parallel to the outer panes of the fire-resistant glazing. The outer surface is the surface that faces the environment in the finished fire-resistant glazing.Depending on the desired geometry of the spacer frame, the two plug-in legs preferably form different angles to each other, for example, between 10° and 170°. In a preferred embodiment, the plug-in legs are at an angle of 90° to each other. According to a further embodiment, the two plug-in legs can form an arcuate shape.

[0018] The plug-in legs are designed to be inserted into or onto a profile strip. Whether the corner connectors are inserted or plugged on is at the discretion of the specialist and can be selected depending on the geometry and nature of the profile strip. The principle for connecting the plug-in legs to the profile strips is that one of these two elements is designed as the receiving part ("female") and the connected element as the plug-in part ("male"). In principle, a corner connector can also have one plug-in leg as a plug-in leg and one plug-in leg as a plug-on leg. However, the plug-in legs of a corner connector are preferably designed identically, with plug-in legs or plug-on legs being selected depending on the geometry of the profile strip to be connected.If the profile strip is designed as a solid profile, for example, the plug-in legs are preferably designed as plug-on legs that are plugged onto the profile strip. The plug-on legs thus comprise a receptacle that accommodates a section of the profile strip. For profile strips designed as hollow profiles with a closed or open cavity, corner connectors with plug-in legs are preferred, with the plug-in legs at least partially engaging into the cavity of the profile strip. Mixed forms of plug-in legs are also possible, engaging into a closed or open cavity of a profile strip and additionally having elements that encompass the profile strip on their outer surfaces.

[0019] The corner connector is preferably designed to be rigid. This means that after the corner connector has been manufactured with an integrated recess and plug, it is no longer bendable in the connection area. The angle a between the two plug-in legs can then no longer be significantly changed, i.e., by a maximum of 5°, preferably by a maximum of 1°, and most preferably not changed at all. This design improves the stability of the connector.

[0020] The plug used in the corner connector according to the invention is not particularly limited as long as it can be inserted from the inner surface of the corner connector. The plug does not have a through-hole, such as a through-hole. This means that the plug, in a state in which it is inserted into the corner connector, prevents the backflow of the fireproofing compound through the recess after the filling process. Furthermore, in this state, no flowable fireproofing compound can be filled into the inner cavity between the panes through the plug. Instead, the adapter described below is used to fill the flowable fireproofing compound into the inner cavity between the panes. The plug is preferably formed as a single piece.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the plug has a head part at a first end in a direction of extension, and a shaft extends, starting from the head part, in the direction of extension to a second end of the plug, wherein the head part is oriented towards the inner surface of the corner connector, while the shaft is oriented towards the outer surface of the corner connector. Furthermore, in this preferred embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in a transverse direction of the plug, which is perpendicular to the direction of extension of the plug, is greater than or equal to the width of the second end of the plug. In one embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in a transverse direction of the plug is at most 5 mm. In one embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in a transverse direction of the plug is at most 40 mm, preferably at most 25 mm, more preferably at most 10 mm.In one embodiment, the width of the second end of the plug in a transverse direction of the plug is at least 5 mm. In one embodiment, the width of the second end of the plug in a transverse direction of the plug is at most 40 mm, preferably at most 25 mm, more preferably at most 10 mm.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug is greater than the width of the second end of the plug. This allows the plug to be particularly easily arranged in the recess extending from the inner surface of the corner connector. In one embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug corresponds to the maximum width of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug. This allows the plug to be particularly easily arranged in the recess extending from the inner surface of the corner connector and to be easily fastened in the recess. In one embodiment, the width of the plug decreases continuously in the transverse direction from the first end to the second end. The "maximum width" with respect to the transverse direction of the plug means that no region of the plug is wider in the transverse direction than the region with the maximum width.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, the width of the first end of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug is equal to the width of the second end of the plug. Such a plug and the corresponding recess can be easily manufactured.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the head part is flush with the inner surface of the corner connector. For the purposes of the invention, "flush" means that the corresponding parts are arranged in one plane. This gives the inner surface, with the inserted plug, an aesthetic appearance.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the head of the plug is designed to precisely fit a region of the recess that borders the inner surface of the corner connector. For the purposes of the invention, "region of the recess that borders the inner surface of the corner connector" means a region of the recess that is located near the inner surface of the corner connector. For the purposes of the invention, "precise fit" means that the corresponding parts are coordinated in size. This makes it easy to ensure the plug's tightness against the flowable fire protection compound.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the head part of the plug comprises a locking plate. The locking plate is suitable for securing the plug in the recess. The locking plate comprises an upper surface which, in the installed state, is oriented towards the inner space between the panes, and an opposite lower surface which is in contact with the shaft. In a preferred embodiment, the width of the locking plate in the transverse direction of the plug corresponds to the maximum width of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug. More preferably, the locking plate and the shaft of the plug form a step in the extension direction of the plug. This means that the width of the plug in the transverse direction changes discontinuously at the transition between the locking plate and the shaft.Preferably, the width of the plug in the transverse direction decreases at the step extending from the locking plate to the shaft. This allows the plug to be secured particularly well in the recess.

[0027] The shape of the locking plate is not particularly limited, as long as the plug can be inserted into the recess with the locking plate. The shape of the locking plate corresponds to the shape in plan view of the upper surface of the locking plate. The locking plate has, for example, a round, oval, or square shape. Preferably, the shape of the locking plate corresponds to the shape of the cross-section of the recess at least in the area of ​​the recess that borders the inner surface of the corner connector. In a preferred embodiment, one of the locking plate and the area of ​​the recess that borders the inner surface of the corner connector is designed as a receiving part ("female"), and the element connected to it is designed as a plug-in part ("male"). This ensures easy insertion of the plug into the recess and good sealing of the plug.

[0028] The shaft of the plug according to one embodiment is not particularly limited, as long as the shaft can be arranged in the recess. A "shaft" within the meaning of the invention is a part of the plug that has a larger dimension in the extension direction of the plug than in the transverse direction of the plug. The shaft has, for example, a round, oval, or square cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft at the second end of the plug is designed to precisely fit the area of ​​the recess that borders the outer surface of the corner connector. Within the meaning of the invention, "area of ​​the recess that borders the outer surface of the corner connector" means an area of ​​the recess that is located near the outer surface of the corner connector. This ensures easy insertion of the plug into the recess and a tight seal of the plug. In one embodiment, the shaft has the shape of a cylinder.

[0029] If, according to one embodiment of the invention, the shaft has the shape of a cylinder and the locking plate has a round shape, then the locking plate preferably has the largest diameter of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug. This allows the plug to be easily arranged in the recess.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft of the plug has a seal. The seal is preferably arranged in a region of the shaft, circumferentially around the cross-section of the shaft. More preferably, this region of the shaft with the seal has a greater width in the transverse direction of the plug than regions of the shaft without a seal. By using the seal, a particularly good seal of the plug against a flowable fire protection compound and also a good fastening of the plug in the recess can be achieved. The seal is preferably an O-ring. In one embodiment, if the width of the first end of the plug in the transverse direction of the plug is equal to the width of the second end of the plug, the shaft has an O-ring in a region circumferentially around the cross-section of the shaft, wherein the plug has its maximum width in the region with the O-ring in the transverse direction of the plug.This allows the plug to be securely fastened in the recess and ensures good sealing.

[0031] In one embodiment, the head part of the plug has a first structure, and a region of the recess adjacent to the inner surface of the corner connector has a second structure, wherein the second structure represents a counterpart to the first structure. Preferably, the first structure is arranged on the locking plate. More preferably, the first structure is arranged on the lower surface of the locking plate. This allows for particularly easy interlocking of the first structure and the second structure, thus enabling the plug to be secured in the recess.

[0032] The first structure and the second structure are not particularly limited as long as they can interlock, thereby fixing the plug.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first structure and the second structure each represent interlocking teeth. The teeth enable easy attachment of the plug in the recess and facilitate connection of the plug to the adapter described below in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the recess has a round cross-section, the locking plate of the plug has a round shape and a first structure, and the region of the recess that borders the inner surface of the corner connector has a second structure, the second structure being a counterpart to the first structure. The first structure and the second structure make it particularly easy to secure the plug in its position in the recess when the recess has a round cross-section and the locking plate has a round shape. If, on the other hand, the recess and the locking plate each have different cross-sections or shapes, for example an oval cross-section or an oval shape or a square cross-section or a square shape, the plug can be easily secured in its position in the recess simply by virtue of the existing cross-section or the existing shape.However, the first structure and the second structure may be additionally present to provide even stronger fastening of the plug.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the plug has an internal thread at the second end. The internal thread is arranged in the plug such that it is open towards the outer surface of the corner connector according to the invention. Due to this orientation, the plug can be easily connected by means of the internal thread to an external thread of the adapter described below, which enables the introduction of a flowable fire protection compound into the inner cavity between the panes in a process for producing fire-resistant glazing and / or the release of air in the function of a vent opening. The plug with an internal thread also enables the use of a reusable adapter, which enables a cost-effective and resource-saving process.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment, the plug has, starting from the second end, at least one longitudinal slot, at the end of which a transverse slot is attached. In this further preferred embodiment, the adapter described below has at least one projection that can be inserted into the longitudinal slot and into the transverse slot of the plug. In a further preferred embodiment, the plug has at least one projection on the shaft. In this further preferred embodiment, the adapter described below has at least one longitudinal slot, at the end of which a transverse slot is attached, wherein the at least one projection of the plug can be inserted into the longitudinal slot and into the transverse slot. In one embodiment, the plug has, starting from the second end, at least two longitudinal slots. The adapter then accordingly has at least two projections.In a further embodiment, the plug has at least two projections on the shaft. The adapter then correspondingly has at least two longitudinal slots. If two longitudinal slots or two projections are present, these are preferably arranged on opposite sides. According to these embodiments, the plug and the adapter described below can form a bayonet lock. The bayonet lock enables a particularly simple connection of the plug and the adapter, which can also be easily separated again. This allows for the use of a reusable adapter, enabling a cost-effective and resource-efficient process.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment, the plug has a breaking edge at the second end. The breaking edge of the plug is the result of breaking a predetermined breaking point in the case where the plug is designed as a single piece with an adapter, as described below. In particular, breaking the predetermined breaking point separates the plug from the adapter. The adapter is used to introduce a flowable fire-protection compound into the inner cavity between the panes in a process for manufacturing fire-resistant glazing. After insertion, the adapter can then be removed by breaking the predetermined breaking point.

[0038] In one embodiment, the recess is incorporated into the connection area between the two plug-in legs. The recess is arranged in a space-saving manner in the connection area between the plug-in legs. Furthermore, filling the corner of the fire-resistant glazing with the flowable fire protection compound is advantageous to prevent bubble formation. In another embodiment, the recess is incorporated into one of the two plug-in legs. This makes it easy to achieve a flush arrangement of the head of the plug and the inner surface of the corner connector.

[0039] In one possible embodiment of the corner connector according to the invention, the connecting area protrudes relative to the plug-in legs. The projection U between the outer surface of the connecting area and the outer surface of the plug-in legs is 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 1 mm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 4 mm, for example 2.5 mm. Enlarging the connecting area increases the stability of the connector and provides more mounting space for the plug, provided the recess is incorporated in the connecting area.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the corner connector, it is manufactured using an injection molding process. The plug-in legs, the connecting area, and the plug are injection-molded. The plug is subsequently inserted into the recess. After the injection-molded material has hardened, the finished corner connector can be removed from the injection mold and the plug inserted. In another preferred embodiment of the corner connector, it is manufactured using a 3D printing process. The plug-in legs, the connecting area, and the plug are manufactured using 3D printing. The plug is subsequently inserted into the recess.

[0041] In a further preferred embodiment of the corner connector according to the invention, the recess on the outer surface of the corner connector is covered. The cover closes the recess with a plug inserted therein to prevent the ingress of dirt or secondary sealant, which can optionally be used when sealing the fire-resistant glazing. The cover can, for example, be snapped in, clicked in, screwed in via a thread, or be formed by a rubber cap inserted into the recess.

[0042] Preferably, the corner connector and the plug are each made of a polymer, as this has low thermal conductivity, which leads to improved thermal insulation properties of the edge seal. Particularly preferably, the corner connector and the plug each comprise a biocomposite, polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polybutadiene, polynitrile, polyester, polyurethane, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylate, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylate-styrene-acrylonitrile (ASA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene / polycarbonate (ABS / PC), styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), PET / PC, PBT / PC, and / or copolymers or mixtures thereof. The plug is preferably made of a flexible polymer, as this can improve the tightness of the plug.

[0043] In one possible embodiment, the polymeric corner connector is fiber-reinforced. The polymeric corner connector preferably has a fiber content of 5% to 65%, particularly preferably 20% to 60%. The fiber content in the corner connector according to this embodiment improves strength and stability. By selecting the fiber content, the thermal expansion coefficient of the corner connector can be varied and adapted to the spacer according to one embodiment. Natural fibers or glass fibers, particularly glass fibers, are preferably used to reinforce the corner connector.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the corner connector and the plug can each comprise at least one metal selected from iron, copper, chromium, cobalt, nickel, titanium, manganese, zinc, aluminum, niobium, tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium. Preferably, the corner connector and the plug are made independently of one another from an alloy. For example, the corner connector and the plug are each made of brass. In addition to the described features, the corner connector can comprise further features, for example, elements for securing the plug-in legs in the spacer. For this purpose, the plug-in legs can have slats or wire elements that enable better securing of the plug-in legs in the spacer. Alternatively or additionally, the corner connector can be equipped with securing elements.If the plug-in legs are designed as plug-in legs, the fixing elements extend, for example, from the connection area at a distance from the outer surface of the plug-in legs and parallel to the legs. The spacer profile attached to the plug-in legs encloses the outer surface of the plug-in legs, with the fixing elements resting against the surface of the spacers facing away from the leg and securing them in position. In other words, the spacer profile engages the corner connector between the fixing element and the plug-in leg, with the plug-in leg being at least partially enclosed by the spacer profile.

[0045] The corner connector according to the invention can be designed as either a single or a multiple corner connector. A single corner connector comprises two plug-in legs, each of which accommodates a profile strip. A multiple corner connector, on the other hand, has at least four plug-in legs, half of which run parallel to each other. In the connection area, the multiple corner connector has a web from which all legs of the corner connector originate. In a preferred embodiment, the corner connector according to the invention is designed as a double corner connector. This has four plug-in legs, two of which are arranged parallel to each other. Such a double corner connector preferably contains one or more recesses, each containing a plug.

[0046] The invention further comprises fire-resistant glazing comprising at least a first pane and a second pane, a circumferential spacer frame arranged between the panes, comprising at least one profile strip and at least one corner connector according to the invention, an inner space between the panes delimited by the spacer frame and the two panes, wherein the at least two plug-in legs of the corner connector according to the invention are inserted into or onto the ends of the at least one profile strip and a fire-resistant layer is introduced into the inner space between the panes. The embodiments described above in connection with the corner connector according to the invention also apply equally to the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention.

[0047] The spacer frame can comprise one or more individual profile strips assembled to form a complete frame. The individual strips can be welded, glued, or connected via connectors. The profile strip can also be continuous and bent at the corners. The ends of the profile strip are connected at least at one point via a corner connector according to the invention. The spacer frame is preferably rectangular. Most fire-resistant glazing is manufactured in this shape.

[0048] The spacer frame can be formed by a profile strip bent into a frame, the two ends of which are connected by a corner connector according to the invention. A spacer frame can also be composed of a profile strip divided into several strips, with at least two individual strips being connected by a corner connector according to the invention, and the remaining strips being connected using corner connectors according to the prior art.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the spacer frame contains a corner connector according to the invention with a plug, a corner connector with a vent opening, and two corner connectors according to the prior art without a vent opening or recesses. The corner connector with a plug and the corner connector with a vent opening are preferably attached to two opposite corners in order to achieve an optimal filling process. The corner connector with a vent opening preferably has a recess as a vent opening, through which air can escape from the inner space between the panes during the filling process. In one embodiment, a vent pipe is inserted into the recess. In a preferred embodiment, the corner connector according to the invention is also used as a corner connector with a vent opening. In this embodiment, the spacer frame contains two corner connectors with plugs according to the invention.According to this embodiment, the channel of the adapter described below corresponds to the venting opening. According to this embodiment, this adapter is removed after venting, so that the corresponding corner connector corresponds to a corner connector according to the invention. A design of a spacer frame without a venting opening is also within the scope of the invention, in which case air escapes through the recess of the corner connector according to the invention during the filling process. This can be achieved, for example, by the adapter described below having a further opening for venting in addition to an opening for introducing the flowable fire protection compound.

[0050] The profile strips, also called spacers, comprise at least a first pane contact surface, a second pane contact surface arranged parallel to it, an outer wall arranged perpendicular to the pane contact surfaces, and optionally an inner wall, also referred to as the glazing interior wall. The outer wall is arranged essentially parallel to the glazing interior wall and connects the side walls to each other.

[0051] Profile strips for fire-resistant glazing are known to those skilled in the art, with both rigid or flexible polymer profile strips and strand-like extruded flexible profiles being common.

[0052] Flexible, extruded profiles, for example, are made from a sealant and are also referred to as thermoplastic spacers. These are preferably designed as solid profiles and preferably comprise a sealant from the group of hot-melt adhesives, preferably from the group of butyl-based hot-melt adhesives, preferably butyl rubber and / or polyisobutylene. Other suitable sealants are known to those skilled in the art from applications for thermoplastic spacers (TPS). Such spacers can be extruded directly onto one of the panes of the fire-resistant glazing or provided as a prefabricated strand that is bonded between the panes using a primary sealant. Such profile strips are preferably combined with corner connectors with slip-on legs.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the profile strips are designed as rigid or flexible polymer profiles. These prove particularly advantageous in the manufacturing process of fire-resistant glazing for prefabricating a spacer frame and gluing the prefabricated frame between the panes. Such profile strips are known in the art and comprise at least a first pane contact surface, a second pane contact surface arranged parallel thereto, an outer wall arranged perpendicular to the pane contact surfaces, and optionally an inner wall, also referred to as the glazing interior wall. The outer wall is arranged essentially parallel to the glazing interior wall and connects the side walls to one another. The glazing interior wall, if present, preferably has a recess so that the profile strip is open at this surface.In a preferred embodiment, the first pane contact surface, the second pane contact surface, and the outer wall enclose a cavity open toward the outer space between the panes. Embodiments with a cavity are particularly suitable for combination with corner connectors with insert legs, which engage in the cavity of the profile strip.

[0054] The profile strips are preferably shaped like the letters H, W, I, C, or II, particularly preferably C or U. Profile strips with closed or semi-open cavities are particularly suitable for combination with corner connectors with mortise legs. For example, a U-shaped profile strip encompasses the outer surface and at least parts of the side surfaces of the corner connector. C-shaped profile strips are advantageous in that they encompass the outer surface, the side surfaces, and part of the inner surface of the corner connector, thus enabling improved fixing. The inner surface of the corner connector remains at least partially exposed. The inner wall of the profile strips, also referred to as the glazing inner surface, is preferably at least partially recessed so that the fire protection compound fills the cavity of the profile strips.

[0055] The first pane contact surface and the second pane contact surface of the profile strip are provided for the attachment of the first pane and the second pane. Preferably, the first pane and the second pane are attached to the first pane contact surface and the second pane contact surface, respectively, via a primary sealant. The spacer frame is preferably prefabricated and then attached between the first pane and the second pane via a primary sealant. This ensures a good seal between the inner space between the panes and the outside environment. This prevents the penetration of moisture. The primary sealant preferably contains a polyisobutylene. The polyisobutylene can be a crosslinking or non-crosslinking polyisobutylene.

[0056] In a further embodiment, the primary sealant comprises other fastening means known to those skilled in the art for securing the panes to the first and second pane contact surfaces. These include, for example, the double-sided foam adhesive tapes commercially available under the term structural glazing tape, comprising a pressure-sensitive polymer foam and acrylate adhesive. Furthermore, transparent double-sided acrylate adhesive tapes are also known and suitable for this purpose.

[0057] As an alternative to bonding with a primary sealant, profile strips made of strand-like extruded sealants can also be injected directly onto or between the panes.

[0058] The inner cavity between the panes is defined by the first pane, the second pane, and the profile strip. The outer wall of the profile strip and the first and second panes preferably define an outer cavity between the panes. The surrounding outer cavity is preferably filled adjacent to the surrounding sealant with an outer sealant known as a secondary sealant. This outer seal primarily serves to bond the two panes together and thus ensure the mechanical stability of the glazing.

[0059] The secondary sealant preferably contains polysulfides, silicones, silicone rubber, polyurethanes, polyacrylates, copolymers, and / or mixtures thereof. Such substances exhibit very good adhesion to glass, so the outer seal ensures secure bonding of the panes. The thickness of the outer seal made of secondary sealant is preferably 2 mm to 30 mm, particularly preferably 5 mm to 10 mm. The secondary sealant preferably sits flush with the peripheral edge of the first pane and the second pane.

[0060] Preferably, after the inner cavity between the panes has been filled with the fire protection compound, the secondary sealant is introduced into the outer cavity between the panes on the surface of the surrounding sealant facing the environment.

[0061] Various types of fire-resistant glass are known in the prior art that use flowable fire-protection compounds, for example, water-based alkali silicates or water-based hydrogels. Such fire-protection compounds, after curing, produce a fire-protection layer that becomes cloudy, intumescent, heat-insulating, and / or cooling under the influence of heat. The flowable fire-protection compound preferably comprises at least alkali silicates and at least one hardener. After the fire-protection compound has cured, a fire-protection layer is thus formed. Such fire-protection layers exhibit good transparency under normal conditions, while in the event of a fire, a heat-protection effect is achieved through clouding and foaming of the fire-protection layer. Intumescent fire-protection layers are also known as intumescent fire-protection layers and are known to those skilled in the art.A wide variety of intumescent or non-intumescent fire protection compounds known to those skilled in the art can be used as the fire protection layer. The fire protection layer preferably comprises polysilicates or hydrogels. Examples of suitable fire protection compounds include the alkali silicates mentioned in EP 2516568 B1 and the hydrogels described in DE 102005018842 A1. Alkali silicate gels according to EP 3224045 A1 have proven particularly advantageous. Hydrogels have proven particularly advantageous in the implementation of the invention due to the good flowability of such fire protection compounds.

[0062] The fire-resistant glazing according to the invention comprises at least a first pane and a second pane arranged parallel to it. In one possible embodiment, the fire-resistant glazing comprises further panes extending beyond the first pane and the second pane, which are also connected to these panes via a spacer frame, analogous to the connection between the first pane and the second pane. In this way, two or more chambers are formed in the spaces between the panes, which are to be filled with fire-resistant compound. The chambers can be filled sequentially or simultaneously. Such multi-chamber glazings, also referred to as multi-layer modules, are preferably filled so that all chambers are filled simultaneously. This is advantageous in terms of a short cycle time. On the other hand, the plane parallelism of the glass panes is ensured by simultaneously filling adjacent chambers.

[0063] The first pane and / or the second pane, as well as any additional panes, preferably contain glass, particularly preferably quartz glass, borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass, and / or mixtures thereof. The panes may also comprise thermoplastic polymeric panes. Thermoplastic polymeric panes preferably comprise polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or copolymers and / or mixtures thereof.

[0064] The first pane and the second pane each have a thickness of 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 1 mm to 20 mm, particularly preferably 3 mm to 10 mm, although both panes may also have different thicknesses. Additional panes of the fire-resistant glazing preferably also lie within these thickness ranges. The first pane, the second pane, and optionally further panes can be made of single-pane safety glass, thermally or chemically toughened glass, float glass, extra-clear low-iron float glass, colored glass, or laminated safety glass containing one or more of these components. The panes may have any desired additional components or coatings, for example low-E layers or other solar control coatings.

[0065] The fire-resistant glazing according to the invention is preferably used as building glazing, facade glazing, partition wall, floor glazing, ceiling glazing, window or door glazing, as vehicle glazing or ship glazing, each individually or as part of a laminated glass or an insulating glazing.

[0066] Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for producing fire-resistant glazing according to the invention, comprising the steps: a) providing a first pane and a second pane, b) providing a corner connector according to the invention, wherein a plug is inserted into the recess of the corner connector, starting from the inner surface of the corner connector, c) attaching a spacer frame with at least the corner connector according to the invention circumferentially in the edge region between the first pane and the second pane by means of a primary sealant and providing a vent opening in the spacer frame, d) pressing the arrangement of the first pane, second pane, spacer frame and primary sealant together, whereby an inner space between the panes is created between the first pane, second pane and spacer frame, e) moving the plug from its position in the recess into the inner space between the panes by means of an adapter,which is connected to a supply line and to the plug, and introducing a flowable fire protection compound, starting from the supply line, through the adapter into the inner cavity between the panes, whereby air escapes from the inner cavity through the vent opening, f) arranging the plug in the recess using the adapter, g) closing the vent opening, and h) curing the flowable fire protection compound in the inner cavity between the panes, thereby obtaining the fire-resistant glazing. The embodiments described above in connection with the corner connector according to the invention and the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention also apply equally to the method according to the invention.

[0067] The method according to the invention enables the chamber to be filled with fire protection compound in a substantially bubble-free manner.

[0068] Manual handling of the glazing, such as tilting and swiveling the glazing for even, bubble-free filling, is not required in the process according to the invention. Thus, such manual steps are eliminated while maintaining consistent product quality.

[0069] The order of steps a) and b) of the process according to the invention can be chosen arbitrarily.

[0070] After inserting the spacer frame using a primary sealant, the first pane and the second pane are pressed together in step d). Suitable presses, for example, for the production of insulating glazing, are known to those skilled in the art. After the assembly is pressed together, the inner space between the panes and the spacer forms a chamber that can be filled with fire protection compound.

[0071] In step e) of the method according to the invention, the plug is moved from its position in the recess into the inner space between the panes by means of an adapter, the adapter being connected to a supply line and to the plug. The connection between the plug and adapter, and between the supply line and adapter, remains intact during the movement.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the plug has an internal thread at the second end and the adapter has an external thread that counteracts the internal thread of the plug. In this preferred embodiment, before step e), the external thread of the adapter is connected to the internal thread of the plug, starting from the outer surface of the corner connector according to the invention. This connection between plug and adapter can be established at any time during the method according to this embodiment, as long as it is carried out before step e). In this preferred embodiment, the connection between plug and adapter is separated again after step f). The separation takes place by loosening the intermeshing threads.Accordingly, the adapter in this embodiment represents a reusable adapter, so that this preferred embodiment enables a particularly cost-effective and resource-saving process. The separation of this connection between plug and adapter can occur at any time during the process according to this embodiment, as long as it is carried out after step f). Before connecting the plug and adapter in this preferred embodiment, the plug can be held in the recess with a clamp that secures the plug to the outer surface of the corner connector. After connecting the plug and adapter, the clamp can then be removed.

[0073] In a further preferred embodiment, the plug and the adapter form a bayonet closure. The plug preferably has, starting from the second end of the plug, at least one longitudinal slot, at the end of which a transverse slot is attached, and the adapter has at least one projection that can be inserted into the longitudinal slot and into the transverse slot. Alternatively, the adapter preferably has at least one longitudinal slot, at the end of which a transverse slot is attached, and the plug on the shaft has at least one projection that can be inserted into the longitudinal slot and into the transverse slot. In one embodiment, the plug has at least two longitudinal slots and the adapter at least two projections. In a further embodiment, the adapter has at least two longitudinal slots and the plug at least two projections. If two longitudinal slots ortwo projections, these are preferably arranged on opposite sides. The bayonet lock enables a particularly simple connection of the plug and the adapter, which can also be easily separated again. In these preferred embodiments, before step e), the adapter is connected to the plug by means of a bayonet lock, starting from the outer surface of the corner connector according to the invention. This connection between plug and adapter can be established at any time during the method according to this embodiment, as long as it is carried out before step e). In this preferred embodiment, the connection between plug and adapter is separated again after step f). The separation takes place by loosening the bayonet lock.Accordingly, the adapter in this embodiment is a reusable adapter, so that these preferred embodiments enable a particularly cost-effective and resource-saving process. The separation of this connection between the plug and the adapter can occur at any time during the process according to this embodiment, as long as it is performed after step f).

[0074] In a further preferred embodiment, the plug and the adapter are formed as a single piece. In this further preferred embodiment, the adapter has a predetermined breaking point. The predetermined breaking point is suitable for breaking under load or overload in such a way that the plug is provided as a result of the breaking. The predetermined breaking point can be realized, for example, via a circumferential notch in one region of the adapter. In particular, the adapter has a smaller width in the transverse direction of the plug in this region than in the other regions of the adapter. Furthermore, in this further preferred embodiment, in step b), the plug is preferably provided with the adapter in such a way that the adapter protrudes from the recess with the predetermined breaking point on the outer surface of the corner connector. This means that the plug and the adapter are already connected to one another when the corner connector according to the invention is provided, i.e. in step b).Furthermore, in this further preferred embodiment, after step f), the adapter is separated from the plug by breaking the predetermined breaking point. Breaking the predetermined breaking point can occur at any time during the process according to this further preferred embodiment, as long as it is performed after step f).

[0075] According to step e) of the method according to the invention, a flowable fire protection compound is introduced, starting from the supply line, through the adapter into the inner space between the panes, whereby air escapes from the inner space between the panes through the ventilation opening.

[0076] The supply line is not particularly restricted, as long as it is suitable for supplying the flowable fire protection compound to the adapter. For example, the supply line can be a pipe, a filling lance, a hose, or a filling gun. The supply line can be designed with a rigid or flexible wall, with a round, oval, or rectangular cross-section, and is connected to the adapter during the filling process.

[0077] The supply line for feeding the flowable fire protection compound to the adapter is in contact with a volume of the flowable fire protection compound and feeds it to the adapter. The volume of flowable fire protection compound is preferably located in a storage container. Flowable fire protection compound is fed from the storage container to the adapter until the chamber is completely filled. To ensure complete filling, overfilling the chamber is preferred, with the excess fire protection compound escaping from the vent opening preferably being returned to the storage container. Another preferred option is to monitor the fill level of the storage container. The volume of the chamber to be filled is calculated from the pane surfaces and the width of the spacer frame, which can be used to determine the amount of fire protection compound that needs to be taken from the storage container.In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the storage container has a fill level sensor and / or is positioned on a scale. In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the fill level is monitored by a flow sensor installed between the storage container and the supply line. Compared to overfilling the chamber, this eliminates the need to recirculate or dispose of excess fire protection compound escaping from the vent opening.

[0078] To ensure that the flowable fire protection compound is introduced through the adapter into the inner space between the panes, the adapter has at least one channel. In one embodiment, the channel has a first opening that can be connected to the supply line and a second opening that faces the inner space between the panes in step e) during the introduction of the flowable compound. The channel has no interruption and extends from the first opening to the second opening. Preferably, the channel has an L-shape in a cross-sectional view of the adapter. The L-shape has two legs that are connected to one another. Further preferably, in step e) during the introduction of the flowable compound into the inner space between the panes, the adapter is arranged such that one of the legs of the L-shape is arranged completely within the inner space between the panes.In particular, this one leg is arranged parallel to the transverse direction of the plug in its extension direction. By using the L-shape, the flowable fire protection compound can be applied as close as possible to the corner or to the corner itself of the fire-resistant glazing. This is advantageous for further facilitating bubble-free filling of the corner areas with fire protection compound.

[0079] Using the method according to the invention, fire-resistant glazing of various geometries can be filled, which includes at least one corner connector according to the invention. The majority of fire-resistant glazing requested by customers has a rectangular geometry. If the fire-resistant glazing has multiple corners, the chamber is preferably filled via these corners, with the corner connector according to the invention preferably being provided with a plug at one corner and the vent opening at the diagonally opposite corner. This is advantageous to further facilitate the seamless filling of the corner areas with fire-resistant compound.

[0080] Preferably, the fire-resistant glazing is oriented during the filling process such that the distance of the corner connector with plug according to the invention from the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned is less than the distance of the vent opening from the floor surface. In other words, the corner connector according to the invention is located below the vent opening, whereby these do not have to be within a line perpendicular to the floor surface. The glazing is thus arranged during the filling process such that the filling direction in which the fire-resistant compound flows in during the filling process has a directional component that is opposite to the weight force. In simple terms, the chamber is preferably filled from bottom to top, with "bottom" referring to the edge of the glazing closest to the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned.This filling direction is particularly advantageous for removing air residues from the chamber to be filled.

[0081] During the filling process, the glazing is preferably arranged so that the surfaces of the first pane and the second pane form an angle of 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 90°, to a plane parallel to the floor surface on which the filling system is positioned. In this way, air residues are effectively displaced, rise, and escape through the vent or are sucked away through it.

[0082] Preferably, the chamber is evacuated via the vent opening, for which embodiments of the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention are particularly suitable, the vent opening of which is integrated into a corner connector with a vent pipe. A negative pressure is applied to the vent pipe, for example by connecting the vent pipe to the supply line of a vacuum pump and extracting the gases in the chamber. The negative pressure to be set depends, for example, on the size of the pane and can also be adjusted during the filling process. Thus, a lower negative pressure is generally required at the beginning of the filling process than towards the end. A negative pressure applied to the vent opening is particularly advantageous for preventing the panes from bulging during the filling process. Furthermore, the formation of bubbles is reduced.

[0083] In step e) of the process, the fire-protection compound is preferably filled at a pressure higher than ambient pressure. This is advantageous for increasing the filling speed in the process, which can be particularly helpful for large panes. The fire-protection compound is preferably filled using a pump.

[0084] In step f) of the inventive method, the plug is positioned in the recess using the adapter. The connection between the adapter and the plug, which already existed in step e) of the inventive method, is maintained in step f). As a result of performing step f), the plug is again positioned in the recess, starting from the inner surface of the corner connector.

[0085] The chamber filled with flowable fire protection compound undergoes a curing step in step h), which hardens the flowable fire protection compound. For example, polymerization occurs, resulting in the formation of a fire protection gel in the chamber. The method according to the invention is applicable to all fire protection compounds that can be processed in a flowable form during the production process and cure in a subsequent step.

[0086] Preferably, the secondary sealant described above is introduced into the outer cavity between the panes after the curing step, thereby sealing the fire-resistant glazing.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the first pane and the second pane are fixed to one another during filling of the chamber. This is preferably done by fixing the surfaces of the first pane and the second pane facing away from the chamber. The surfaces of the first pane and the second pane facing away from the chamber represent the surfaces of the glazing facing the environment, which are thus accessible from the environment. The panes are fixed by means of measures known to those skilled in the art, such as plates, frames, rollers and / or suction devices. The glazing is preferably positioned on a frame, for example the pane holder of a continuous production line, wherein the surface of the first or second pane is fixed at least at certain points by the frame.The remaining exposed pane surface of the first or second pane is preferably fixed at least in place by a suction device placed on this pane surface. In this way, the first pane and the second pane are held rigidly to one another, preventing bulging or indentation of the panes during the filling process. Particularly preferably, the suction device placed on the pane surface is used before filling to rotate the glazing into a preferred filling position. Preferred filling positions are those already described, wherein, in particular, the corner with the corner connector according to the invention and the corner with the ventilation opening are arranged in opposite corners, and the glazing is rotated such that the corner connector according to the invention forms the lowest point, i.e., the section of the glazing closest to the base surface of the filling system.

[0088] Preferably, the glazing is vibrated during and / or after filling with fire protection compound, in particular during filling, and in any case before the fire protection compound hardens. This releases any air bubbles present, causes them to rise upwards towards the vent opening, and are sucked away. Such additional measures for removing air bubbles are generally unnecessary, but can be useful for particularly large panes. In a preferred embodiment of the method, the glazing is vibrated by means of a vibration unit attached to a gripper arm. In particular, a vibration unit can be attached directly to the arm of a suction device used to hold a surface of the first pane or second pane in place.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the adapter is made of a polymer. This is preferably the case if the plug and the adapter are formed as a single piece, since the plug and the adapter can then be easily separated from one another by breaking the predetermined breaking point. Particularly preferably, the adapter comprises a biocomposite, polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polybutadiene, polynitrile, polyester, polyurethane, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylate, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylester-styrene-acrylonitrile (ASA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene / polycarbonate (ABS / PC), styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), PET / PC, PBT / PC, and / or copolymers or mixtures thereof.

[0090] In one possible embodiment, the polymeric adapter is fiber-reinforced. The polymeric adapter preferably has a fiber content of 5% to 65%, particularly preferably 20% to 60%. The fiber content in the adapter according to this embodiment improves strength and stability. Natural fibers or glass fibers, particularly preferably glass fibers, are preferably used to reinforce the adapter.

[0091] In an alternative embodiment, the adapter can comprise at least one metal selected from iron, copper, chromium, cobalt, nickel, titanium, manganese, zinc, aluminum, niobium, tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium. Preferably, the adapter is made of an alloy. For example, the adapter is made of brass. This is preferably the case if the adapter is reusable, as the robustness of the metal is particularly advantageous.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the adapter has a seal. The seal is preferably arranged in a region of the adapter, circumferentially surrounding the adapter's cross-section, below the second opening of the channel. The use of the seal allows for particularly good sealing of the adapter against the flowable fire protection compound during the filling process. The seal is preferably an O-ring.

[0093] In one embodiment, the adapter has at least one projection along its cross-section, which is suitable for abutting against the outer surface of the corner connector during step e), so that the adapter can not be pushed further towards the inner space between the panes. The projection mentioned here is different from the projection that can be present in the case of the bayonet closure. Preferably, the at least one projection is arranged on the adapter such that when the projection comes into contact with the outer surface of the corner connector, the second opening of the channel is located completely in the inner space between the panes. This makes it easy to set a suitable filling position. According to one embodiment, the at least one projection extends in a ring shape around the adapter.

[0094] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to drawings and exemplary embodiments. The drawings are purely schematic representations and not to scale. The drawings do not limit the invention in any way.

[0095] They show:

[0096] Figures 1a, 1b show a schematic representation of the method according to the invention for introducing a flowable fire protection compound,

[0097] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a corner connector according to the invention in cross section with a plug inserted into a recess,

[0098] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a plan view of the corner connector according to the invention with fixing elements,

[0099] Figures 4 to 8 are schematic representations of various embodiments of the plug of the corner connector according to the invention, Figure 9 is a schematic representation of a profile strip of the fire-resistant glazing according to the invention,

[0100] Figure 10 is a schematic representation of a fire-resistant glazing which is fixed on a production line by a robot arm and filled according to process step e),

[0101] Figure 11 Process steps of the filling process according to an embodiment of the present invention and

[0102] Figure 12 shows a fire-resistant glazing according to the invention, produced using the method according to the invention.

[0103] According to the figures, the plug-in legs are designed as plug-in legs, although a configuration as plug-on legs is also possible. Furthermore, according to the figures, the recess is incorporated in one plug-in leg; it is also possible to incorporate the recess in the connecting area between the two plug-in legs.

[0104] Figures 1a and 1b show a schematic representation of the method according to the invention during the filling process according to method step e), with which the fire-resistant glazing II according to the invention is finally produced. Figure 1a shows a plan view, while Figure 1b shows a cross-section along the section line AA' according to Figure 1a. The fire-resistant glazing II comprises a first pane 12 and a second pane 13, which are connected to one another via a circumferential spacer frame 7 arranged between the panes 12, 13. The spacer frame 7 is bonded to the first pane 12 and the second pane 13 via a primary sealant 8, wherein the spacer frame 7 is set back from the circumferential edge K of the first pane 12 and the second pane 13 by 5 mm in the direction of the surface center of the first pane 12 and the second pane 13.The spacer frame 7 and the panes 12, 13 enclose a chamber in the inner pane cavity 11. The outer pane cavity 10 is located on the surface of the spacer frame 7 facing away from the inner pane cavity 11 and towards the surroundings. This cavity is enclosed on three sides by the first pane 12, the second pane 13, and the spacer frame 7, and is open to the surroundings on a fourth side. The fire-resistant glazing II has a rectangular geometry, with a corner connector I according to the invention being inserted into the spacer frame 7 at one corner of the fire-resistant glazing II, and a corner connector 72 with a ventilation opening 70 and a ventilation pipe 71 mounted therein being inserted at the opposite corner. The corner connector 72 can also be designed as a corner connector I according to the invention. In this case, the fire-resistant glazing II comprises two corner connectors I according to the invention.The plug 32 of the corner connector I according to the invention is here displaced from its position in the recess 33 into the inner space between the panes 11 by means of an adapter 41, which is connected to a supply line (not shown here) and to the plug 32. A flowable fire protection compound 6a is introduced, starting from the supply line, through the adapter 41 into the inner space between the panes 11. Fig. 1a shows a cross-sectional view of the adapter 41. The adapter 41 has a channel 42. The flow direction of the fire protection compound 6a is indicated as flow direction F. The flowable fire protection compound 6a comprises hydrogels. The flow direction F of the two fluids, fire protection compound and air, is shown by arrows.

[0105] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of a corner connector I according to the invention with a recess 33 and a plug 32 inserted therein. Accordingly, the plug 32 is also shown in cross-section. The representation according to Figure 2 is greatly simplified. Slats or retaining elements, such as those that can be used to fix the corner connectors in a profile strip, are not shown. These can be added by a person skilled in the art as required. The corner connector I comprises two plug-in legs 31 that are connected to one another in the connecting region 34. The two plug-in legs 31 enclose an angle a (alpha) of 90° and are designed as plug-in legs. The corner connector I has an outer surface 36, which in the finished fire-resistant glazing II faces the environment, and an inner surface 38, which in the finished fire-resistant glazing II faces the inner cavity 11. A recess 33 is integrated into one plug-in leg 31.A plug 32 is inserted into the recess 33. The plug-in legs 31 and the connecting area 34 are manufactured in one piece from a polymer using an injection molding process. The connecting area 34 protrudes compared to the plug-in legs 31. The overhang U between the outer surface 36 of the plug-in legs 31 and the outer surface 36 of the connecting area 34 is 3.5 mm. The connecting area 34 also protrudes slightly with respect to the side surfaces 37 of the plug-in legs 31 (not visible here, see Figure 3). The size of this overhang depends on the profile strip 1 to be used. Preferably, the profile strip 1 in the fire-resistant glazing II is flush with the side surfaces 37 of the connecting area 34. The protruding connecting area 34 has the additional advantage of reinforcing the connecting area 34, which contributes to increasing the stability of the corner connector I.The connecting area 34 is rigid. This means that the angle a (alpha) cannot be significantly changed. The exact dimensions of the corner connector I depend on the profile strips 1 used. In the example, the length L of a plug-in leg is 3.2 cm, and the length E of the connecting area is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0106] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a plan view of the corner connector I according to the invention with fixing elements 39. The corner connector I essentially corresponds to that described in Figure 2, wherein in addition two fixing elements 39 are attached per plug-in leg 31, which extend from the connecting region 34 parallel to the outer surfaces 36 of the plug-in legs 31 in the direction of the end faces 35 of the plug-in legs 31.

[0107] Embodiments of the plugs 32 inserted into the recess 33 of the corner connector I according to Figures 2 and 3 are shown in Figures 4 to 8. The plug 32 shown has a head part 52 at a first end 51 in an extension direction X, and a shaft 54 ​​extends, starting from the head part 52, in the extension direction X to a second end 53 of the plug 32, wherein the head part 52 is oriented towards the inner surface 38 (not shown here) of the corner connector I, while the shaft 54 ​​is oriented towards the outer surface 36 (not shown here) of the corner connector I. Furthermore, the first end 51 of the plug 32 has a width B1 in a transverse direction D, which is perpendicular to the extension direction X of the plug 32, and the second end 53 of the plug 32 has a width B2. The width B1 at the first end 51 is greater than the width B2 of the second end 53. The head portion 52 of the plug 32 includes a locking plate 55.In the embodiment according to Figure 5, the head part 52 of the plug 32 has a first structure 56. The first structure 56 is arranged on the lower surface 57 of the locking plate. In the embodiment according to Figure 6, the plug 32 has an internal thread 58 at the second end 53. The internal thread 58 is arranged in the plug 32 such that it is open towards the outer surface 36 (not shown here) of the corner connector I. In the embodiment according to Figure 7, the plug 32 has, starting from the second end 53, at least one longitudinal slot 59, at the end of which a transverse slot 60 is attached. In the embodiment according to Figure 8, the plug 32 has two projections 61 on opposite sides of the shaft 54.

[0108] Figure 9 shows a perspective cross-section of an embodiment of a profile strip 1. The profile strip 1 comprises two parallel pane contact surfaces 2.1 and 2.2, which establish contact with the panes 12 and 13 of a fire-resistant glazing II. The pane contact surfaces 2.1 and 2.2 are connected via an outer wall 4 and an interior wall 3. The outer wall 4 runs essentially parallel to the interior wall 3. The profile strip 1 is made of a polymer and is additionally glass fiber reinforced and contains, for example, styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) and approximately 35 wt.% glass fiber. The profile strip 1 has a cavity 5, and the wall thickness of the polymer hollow profile 1 according to this embodiment is, for example, 1 mm. The interior wall 3 is not continuous, so that the fire protection compound 6a can enter the cavity 5.Such C- or U-shaped profile strips are preferred because corner connectors with insertion legs can be easily inserted into the cavities of the profile strips and the profile strips and corner connectors together form a spacer frame that is easy to handle during the manufacturing process.

[0109] Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a section of a production line 14 for manufacturing fire-resistant glazing II, in which the filling of the fire-resistant glazing II with fire-resistant compound 6a is shown. The fire-resistant glazing II corresponds to that described in Figures 1a and 1b. In this section of the production line 14, the fire-resistant glazing II is gripped by a robot arm 15 with a suction device that rests against an exposed surface of one of the panes 12, 13. The fire-resistant glazing II is first rotated by the robot arm 15 so that the corner connector I is closest to the floor surface on which the production line 14 is arranged. A supply line 16 is then connected to the adapter, which is already connected to the plug of the corner connector, or the supply line 16 is provided together with the adapter, and the adapter is connected to the plug. The adapter and plug are not shown here.The flowable fire protection compound 6a is introduced from the supply line 16 through the adapter into the inner cavity 11 between the panes, with air escaping from the inner cavity 11 via the corner connector 72 with vent pipe. The orientation of the fire-resistant glazing II according to Figure 10 is particularly advantageous for avoiding air pockets. The flow direction F of the fire protection compound 6a is indicated by an arrow. During the filling process, the panes 12, 13 are secured between the robot arm 15 and the section of the production line 14 in such a way that bending of the panes during the filling process is prevented.

[0110] Figure 11 shows method steps of the filling process according to an embodiment of the present invention. For simplicity, only the corner connector I with the plug 32 and the adapter 41 are shown here. In this embodiment, the plug 32 either has an internal thread (not shown here) at the second end and the adapter 41 has an external thread (not shown here), which represents a counterpart to the internal thread of the plug 32, or the plug 32 and the adapter 41 form a bayonet lock. Initially, the corner connector I is present, with the plug 32 being inserted into the recess 33, starting from the inner surface 38 of the corner connector I. Next, the adapter 41 is connected to the plug 32, starting from the outer surface 36 of the corner connector I, whereby the adapter 41 is connected to the supply line 16. The adapter 41 has a channel 42. The channel 42 has a first opening 43, which is connected to the supply line 16, and a second opening 44.The channel 42 has an L-shape in the cross-sectional view of the adapter 41 shown. The L-shape has two legs that are connected to each other. Next, the plug 32 is moved from its position in the recess 33 into the inner space between the panes by means of the adapter 41, and a flowable fire protection compound (not shown here) is introduced, starting from the supply line 16, through the adapter 41 into the inner space between the panes. The second opening 44 faces the inner space between the panes during the introduction of the flowable fire protection compound. The adapter 41 is arranged during the introduction of the flowable fire protection compound into the inner space between the panes so that one of the legs of the L-shape is arranged completely within the inner space between the panes. The plug 32 is then arranged in the recess 33 by means of the adapter 41.Finally, the connection between plug 32 and adapter 41 is separated again and the corner connector I is obtained, wherein the plug 32 is inserted into the recess 33, starting from the inner surface 38 of the corner connector I.

[0111] Figure 12 shows a fire-resistant glazing II according to the invention produced using the method according to the invention. The fire-resistant glazing II corresponds to that described in Figures 1a and 1b, whereby the inner cavity 11 between the panes was completely filled with fire-resistant compound 6a, which was cured. This results in the fire-resistant layer 6. The outer cavity 10 between the panes is sealed with polysulfide as a secondary sealant 9.

[0112] List of reference symbols:

[0113] (I) Corner connectors

[0114] (II) Fire-resistant glazing

[0115] (I) Profile strip, spacer

[0116] (2.1) first disc contact surface

[0117] (2.2) second disc contact surface

[0118] (3) Interior wall, glazing interior surface

[0119] (4) Exterior wall

[0120] (5) Cavity

[0121] (6) Fire protection layer

[0122] (6a) Fire protection compound

[0123] (7) Spacer frame

[0124] (8) primary sealant

[0125] (9) secondary sealant

[0126] (10) outer space between panes

[0127] (II) inner inter-pane space, chamber

[0128] (12) first disc

[0129] (13) second disc

[0130] (14) Production line

[0131] (15) Robot arm

[0132] (16) Supply line

[0133] (31) Plug-in legs

[0134] (32) Plugs

[0135] (33) Recess

[0136] (34) Connection area

[0137] (35) Front side

[0138] (36) Outer surface

[0139] (37) Side surface

[0140] (38) Inner surface

[0141] (39) Fixing element

[0142] (41) Adapter

[0143] (42) Channel (43) first opening of the adapter

[0144] (44) second opening of the adapter

[0145] (51) first end

[0146] (52) Headboard

[0147] (53) second end

[0148] (54) Shaft

[0149] (55) Locking plate

[0150] (56) first structure

[0151] (57) lower surface of the locking plate

[0152] (58) Internal thread

[0153] (59) Longitudinal slot

[0154] (60) Cross slot

[0155] (61) Lead

[0156] (70) Ventilation opening

[0157] (71) Ventilation pipe

[0158] (72) Corner connector with ventilation opening

[0159] B1 Width of the first end of the plug

[0160] B2 Width of the second end of the plug

[0161] D Transverse direction of the plug

[0162] E Length of the connection area

[0163] F Flow direction

[0164] K common circumferential edge of the first disc and the second disc

[0165] L Length of one plug-in leg

[0166] U Overhang

[0167] X Extension direction of the plug

[0168] AA' section line

Claims

Patent claims 1. Corner connector (I) for connecting two ends of at least one profile strip in fire-resistant glazing, comprising two plug-in legs (31) suitable for plugging into or plugging onto a profile strip (1), a connecting region (34) which connects the two plug-in legs (31), an outer surface (36), two side surfaces (37) and an inner surface (38), wherein a recess (33) is provided in the corner connector (I), which extends from the outer surface (36) of the corner connector (I) to the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), and a plug (32) starting from the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I) is inserted into the recess (33) and closes the recess (33).

2. Corner connector (I) according to claim 1, wherein the plug (32) has a head part (52) at a first end (51) in a direction of extension (X) of the plug (32) and, starting from the head part (52), a shaft (54) extends in the direction of extension (X) to a second end (53) of the plug (32), wherein the head part (52) is oriented towards the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), while the shaft (54) is oriented towards the outer surface (36) of the corner connector (I), and the width (B1) of the first end (51) of the plug (32) in a transverse direction (D) of the plug (32), which is perpendicular to the direction of extension (X), is greater than or equal to the width (B2) of the second end (53) of the plug (32).

3. Corner connector (I) according to claim 2, wherein the width (B1) of the first end (51) of the plug (32) in the transverse direction (D) is greater than the width (B2) of the second end (53) of the plug (32).

4. Corner connector (I) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the head part (52) of the plug (32) comprises a locking plate (55).

5. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the shaft (54) of the plug (32) has a seal in a region along its cross-section.

6. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the head part (52) has a first structure (56) and a region of the recess (33) which is adjacent to the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), has a second structure, wherein the second structure represents a counterpart to the first structure (56).

7. Corner connector (I) according to claim 6, wherein the first structure (56) and the second structure each represent interlocking teeth.

8. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the plug (32) has an internal thread (58) at the second end (53).

9. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the plug (32), starting from the second end (53), has at least one longitudinal slot (59), at the end of which a transverse slot (60) is attached.

10. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the plug (32) has at least one projection (61) on the shaft (54).

11. Corner connector (I) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the plug (32) has a breaking edge at the second end (53).

12. Fire-resistant glazing (II) comprising at least a first pane (12) and a second pane (13), a circumferential spacer frame (7) arranged between the panes (12, 13), comprising at least one profile strip (1) and at least one corner connector (I) according to one of claims 1 to 11, an inner space between the panes (11), delimited by the spacer frame (7) and the two panes (12, 13), wherein the at least two plug-in legs (31) of the corner connector (I) are plugged into or onto the ends of the at least one profile strip (1) and a fire-resistant layer (6) is introduced into the inner space between the panes (11).

13. A method for producing a fire-resistant glazing (II) according to claim 12, comprising the steps: a) providing a first pane (12) and a second pane (13), b) Providing a corner connector (I) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a plug (32) is inserted into the recess (33) of the corner connector (I), starting from the inner surface (38) of the corner connector (I), c) Attaching a spacer frame (7) with at least one corner connector (I) according to one of claims 1 to 11 circumferentially in the edge region between the first pane (12) and the second pane (13) by means of a primary sealing means (8) and providing a vent opening (70) in the spacer frame (7), d) Pressing the arrangement of the first pane (12), the second pane (13), the spacer frame (7) and the primary sealing means (8), wherein an inner space (11) is created between the first pane (12), the second pane (13) and the spacer frame (7), e) Moving the plug (32) from its position in the recess (33) into the inner space between the panes (11) by means of an adapter (41),which is connected to a supply line (16) and to the plug (32), and introducing a flowable fire protection compound (6a), starting from the supply line (16), through the adapter (41) into the inner space between the panes (11), whereby air escapes from the inner space between the panes (11) through the vent opening (70), f) arranging the plug (32) by means of the adapter (41) in the recess (33), g) closing the vent opening (70) and h) curing the flowable fire protection compound (6a) in the inner space between the panes (11), whereby the fire-resistant glazing (II) is obtained.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the plug (32) has an internal thread (58) at the second end (53) and the adapter (41) has an external thread which is a counterpart of the internal thread (58) of the plug (32), or the plug (32) and the adapter (41) form a bayonet closure, and wherein before step e) the adapter (41) is connected to the plug (32) starting from the outer surface (36) of the corner connector (I) and the connection is separated again after step f).

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein the plug (32) and the adapter (41) are formed in one piece, the adapter (41) has a predetermined breaking point, in step b) the plug (32) is provided with the adapter (41) such that the adapter (41) can be removed from the recess (33) with the predetermined breaking point from the outer surface (36) of the corner connector (I) and after step f) the adapter (41) is separated from the plug (32) by breaking the predetermined breaking point.

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