Electromagnetic shielding system and associated methods and use

Abstract

The present invention discloses an electromagnetic shielding system; the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window and a metallic sash enclosing the window; the window comprises a first conductive layer and a conductive element; the conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer; the conductive element comprises an exceeding element part that extends outside of the lateral edges of the window; the metallic sash has a generic U-shape having a first lateral wing, a second lateral wing and a bottom; the window is maintained inside the sash by a first dielectric gasket attached to the first lateral wing and a second dielectric gasket attached to the second lateral wing The electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a conductive gasket; the conductive gasket connects by an electrical connection the said exceeding element part to the bottom of the metallic sash. The electrical connection is performed all around the window. The present invention also relates to associated methods and use.

Description

Electromagnetic shielding system and associated methods and useDescriptionTechnical Field

[0001] The present intention relates to an electromagnetic shielding system.

[0002] Especially, the present invention relates to an electromagnetic shielding system for insertion in an electromagnetic shielding wall to achieve an electromagnetic shielded volume.

[0003] Especially, the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window to be able to see outside of the volume.

[0004] The volume according to the present invention relates to a volume of a stationary object or of a mobile object. The volume can be a room, a part or entire floor, a compartment for instance. That means that the electromagnetic shielding system can be mounted on a stationary object, for instance a building, or mounted on a mobile object, for instance a vehicle, a rapid transit system such as a train, tram or alike to obtain a volume that is electromagnetically shielded.

[0005] Thus, the invention concerns multiple domains where the electromagnetic waves needs to be blocked for security reasons, for health reasons or any other reasons.Background Art

[0006] Electromagnetic shielding panels are materials used to protect electronic devices and systems from electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI is the disturbance generated by an external source that affects the normal operation of an electronic device or system. This interference can be caused by a variety of sources, including power lines, radio waves, and other electronic devices.

[0007] EMI can cause a range of problems for electronic devices, including reduced performance, data loss, and even physical damage. Electromagnetic shielding panels are designed to block or absorb the electromagnetic waves that cause EMI, protecting the electronic device or system from these harmful effects.

[0008] Existing solutions for electromagnetic shielding panels include using conductive materials such as copper, aluminum, and steel. These materials can effectively block electromagnetic waves, but they are often heavy, expensive,and difficult to work with. Additionally, they may not be suitable for applications where weight and cost are critical factors.

[0009] Another issue with such existing solutions is that they are not transparent and cannot be used to see through.

[0010] To address these issues, metallic coating can be added to a glass panel to reduce the electromagnetic transparency.

[0011] Such metallic coating taken alone can block partially electromagnetic (EM) waves but the whole structure of the object on which the window is installed has to be designed to block said waves otherwise leakage occurs and the EM waves can pass around said metallic coating.

[0012] To avoid these leakage, said metallic coatings have to be connected to the earth. This can be really complex and expensive to realize.Summary of invention

[0013] The present invention relates, in a first aspect, to an electromagnetic shielding system. Said electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window and a metallic sash enclosing the window. The metallic sash is designed to mount the window on an object. The window comprises a first conductive layer and a conductive element. The conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer. The conductive element comprises an exceeding element part that extends outside of the lateral edges of the window. The metallic sash has a generic U-shape having a first lateral wing, a second lateral wing and a bottom. The window is maintained inside the sash by a first dielectric gasket attached to the first lateral wing and a second dielectric gasket attached to the second lateral wing.

[0014] The solution as defined in the first aspect of the present invention is based on the electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a conductive gasket. The conductive gasket connects, by an electrical connection, the said exceeding element part to the bottom of the metallic sash.

[0015] The solution as defined in the first aspect of the present invention is also based on the electrical connection is performed all around the window.

[0016] The present invention also relates, in a second aspect to an assembling method to assemble an electromagnetic shielding system according to the firstaspect of the present invention. The assembling method comprises following steps:Al. providing a part of the metallic sash comprising the bottom and the first lateral wing with the first dielectric gasketA2. Providing the conductive gasketA3. Installing the conductive gasket against the bottom to connect the conductive gasket to the bottomA4. Providing the windowA5. Installing the window against the conductive gasket to connect the exceeding part to the conductive gasketA6. Closing the sash with the second lateral wing with the second dielectric gasket.

[0017] The present invention also relates, in a third aspect, to an retrofit installation method to obtain an electromagnetic shielded volume. The retrofit installation method comprises following steps :Bl. Opening the metallic sash with the second lateral wingB2. Removing the existing windowB3. P roviding a window comprises a first conductive layer and a conductive element; the conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer; the conductive element comprises an exceeding element part that extends outside of the lateral edges of the windowB4. P roviding a conductive gasketB5. Installing the conductive gasket against the bottom to connect the conductive gasket to the bottomB6. Installing the window against the conductive gasket to connect the exceeding part to the conductive gasketB7. Closing the sash with the second lateral wing with the second dielectric gasket to create an electromagnetic shielding system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0018] The present invention also relates, in a fourth aspect, to an use of a conductive gasket to reduce the penetration of the EM waves in an electromagnetic shielding system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0019] The present invention permits in these different aspects to electromagnetically protect a volume from electromagnetic transparency. Electromagnetic transparency can cause interference with electronic devices, such as Wi-Fi and mobile phones. It can also allow for the penetration of harmful electromagnetic radiation from external sources, such as radio and microwave frequencies. This can pose health risks to individuals within the volume and can also affect the proper functioning of medical equipment. Additionally, electromagnetic transparency can compromise the security of sensitive information by allowing for eavesdropping through electromagnetic radiation.

[0020] The present invention further permits increase the privacy inside the volume. This results in increased privacy, as the present invention, especially the electromagnetic shielding system, acts as a barrier to prevent the interception of sensitive information. This advantage is particularly useful in situations where confidential information is being transmitted, such as in a corporate or government setting.

[0021] The present invention further permits to the electromagnetic shielding system's ability to block electromagnetic radiation provides an additional layer of security. This can prevent outsiders from detecting the presence of electronic devices, such as cameras or recording devices, and can also prevent eavesdropping on conversations that are taking place within the building. This advantage is particularly valuable in settings where security is a top priority, such as government buildings, embassies, and research facilities.

[0022] On top of that, at least the first conductive layer of the electromagnetic shielding system reflects EM waves back into the room, reducing the amount of energy lost through windows. This results in better energy efficiency, as the interior temperature is more stable and less energy is required to maintain it. This advantage can result in significant cost savings over time, particularly in volumes with large numbers of windows.

[0023] In some cases, the electromagnetic shielding system, especially the sash and the conductive gasket, provides additional strength and protection to the window, making it more resistant to damage from impacts or weather events. This results in increased durability, as the window is less likely to be damaged or broken over time. This advantage is particularly valuable in objects located in areas with extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or tornadoes.

[0024] The present invention further permits thanks to at least the conductive gasket connecting the window and frame to reduce noise transmission, making the interior volume quieter and more comfortable. This results in enhanced noise reduction, providing a more pleasant and productive environment for volume occupants. This advantage is particularly valuable in objects located in noisy areas, such as near airports or busy highways.

[0025] The present invention further permits thanks to at least the window permits to retrieve energy from the sun and illuminate the volume.

[0026] It is noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of features recited in the claims or in the described embodiments.

[0027] The following description relates to building applications, but it’s understood that the invention may be applicable to others fields like automotive or transportation applications.Brief description of the drawings

[0028] This and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing various exemplifying embodiments of the invention which are provided by way of illustration and not of limitation. The drawings are a schematic representation and not true to scale. The drawings do not restrict the invention in any way. More advantages will be explained with examples.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an electromagnetic shielding system according to the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of an electromagnetic shielding system according to section AA’.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates a conductive gasket according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a conductive gasket according to some other embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5 illustrates a conductive gasket and a setting block according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] Each of FIG. 6 to FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic side view of some embodiments of an electromagnetic shielding system according to the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 10 illustrates an assembling method according to the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 11 illustrates a retrofit installation method according to the present invention.Detailed description

[0037] It is an object of the present invention to alleviate the above described problems and to provide a durable solution to electromagnetically shield a volume.

[0038] In this document to a specific embodiment and include various changes, equivalents, and / or replacements of a corresponding embodiment. The same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0039] As used herein, spatial or directional terms, such as "inner", "outer", "above", "below", "top", "bottom", and the like, relate to the invention as it is shown in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention can assume various alternative orientations and, accordingly, such terms are not to be considered as limiting. Further, all numbers expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, processing parameters, quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and the like, used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical values set forth in the following specification and claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, expression “substantially" mean to within 10%, preferably to within 5%.

[0040] Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to be inclusive of the beginning and ending range values and to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a stated range of "1 to 10" should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more, e.g. 1 to 6.1, and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, e.g., 5.5 to 10. Further, as used herein, the terms "deposited over" or "provided over" mean deposited or provided on but notnecessarily in surface contact with. For example, a coating "deposited over" a substrate does not preclude the presence of one or more other coating films of the same or different composition located between the deposited coating and the substrate.

[0041] Where the term “comprising” is used in the present description and claims, it does not exclude other elements or steps. Where an indefinite or definite article is used when referring to a singular noun e.g. "a" or "an", "the", this includes a plural of that noun unless something else is specifically stated. In this document, "configured to (or set to)" may be interchangeably used in hardware and software with, for example, "appropriate to", "having a capability to", "changed to", "made to", "capable of", or "designed to" according to a situation. In any situation, an expression "device configured to do" may mean that the device "can do" together with another device or component.

[0042] Furthermore, the terms first, second and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein. When it is described that a constituent element (e.g., a first constituent element) is "(functionally or communicatively) coupled to" or is "connected to" another constituent element (e.g., a second constituent element), it should be understood that the constituent element may be directly connected to the another constituent element or may be connected to the another constituent element through another constituent element (e.g., a third constituent element).

[0043] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, expression “substantially” mean to within 10%, preferably to within 5%.

[0044] The following description relates to an electromagnetic shielding system comprising a decoating apparatus and a protection means.

[0045] Especially, FIG. 1 shows a part of an electromagnetic shielding system 1 comprising a window 2, a metallic sash 3, a conductive gasket 4 and conductive element 5. <window>

[0046] According to the invention, the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window 2.

[0047] Typically, a window has a light transmission of at least 50%. In some cases, the light transmission can be lower than 50%. The light transmission depends on the composition of the window.

[0048] In some preferred embodiments, the window comprises a first dielectric panel.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first dielectric panel can be a plastic-based panel such as a Polycarbonate or alike.

[0050] In some other embodiments, the first dielectric panel can comprises at least one glass sheet.

[0051] In some preferred embodiments, the first dielectric panel comprises at least two glass sheets separated by a spacer allowing to create a space filled by a gas like Argon to improve the thermal isolation of the window, creating an insulating window.

[0052] In some preferred embodiments, the first dielectric panel comprises at least two glass sheets separated by spacers allowing to create a vacuum space to improve the thermal isolation of the window, creating a vacuum insulating glazing (VIG).

[0053] In the present embodiment, the rectangle includes not only a rectangle or a square but also a shape obtained by chamfering corners of a rectangle or a square. The shape of the window 2 in a plan view is not limited to a rectangle, and may be a circle or any other shape depending on the desire application.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first dielectric panel can be a laminated window to reduce the noise and / or to ensure the penetration safety. The laminated glazing comprises windows maintained by one or more interlayers positioned between windows. The interlayers employed are typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) for which the stiffness can be tuned. These interlayers keep the windows bonded together even when broken in such a way that they prevent the glass from breaking up into large sharp pieces.

[0055] As the material of the window, for example, soda-lime silica glass, borosilicate glass, or aluminosilicate glass can be mentioned or other materials such as thermoplastic polymers, polycarbonates are known, especially forautomotive applications, and references to glass throughout this application should not be regarded as limiting.

[0056] The window can be manufactured by a known manufacturing method such as a float method, a fusion method, a redraw method, a press molding method, or a pulling method. As a manufacturing method of the window 2, from the viewpoint of productivity and cost, it is preferable to use the float method.

[0057] The window can be flat or curved according to requirements by known methods such as hot or cold bending.

[0058] The window can be processed, i.e. annealed, tempered, ••• to respect with the specifications of security and anti-thief requirements.

[0059] The glass sheet can be a clear glass or a colored glass, tinted with a specific composition of the glass or by applying an additional coating or a plastic layer for example.

[0060] In case of several glass sheets, in some embodiments, each glass sheet can be independently processed and / or colored, ••• in order to improve the aesthetic, thermal insulation performances, safety, •••

[0061] The thickness of the window is set according to requirements of applications.

[0062] The window can be formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view by using a known cutting method. As a method of cutting the window, for example, a method in which laser light is irradiated on the surface of the window to cut the irradiated region of the laser light on the surface of the window to cut the window, or a method in which a cutter wheel is mechanically cutting can be used. The window can have any shape in order to fit with the application, for example a windshield, a sidelite, a sunroof of an automotive, a lateral glazing of a train, a window of a building, ••• <metallic sash>

[0063] In addition, according to the invention, the electromagnetic shielding system 1 comprises a metallic sash 3 enclosing the window 2.

[0064] Depending on the application, the metallic sash can be part of a frame, for an openable window for example, or directly attached to the wall of an object.

[0065] According to the invention, the metallic sash has a sectional generic U- shape as illustrated in FIG. 1. The generic U-shape can have a specific designdepending on the desire application or specific needs such as assembly clips, ventilation areas, aesthetic or alike.

[0066] To maintain correctly the window at the correct position, as illustrated in some figures, the metallic sash has a first lateral wing 311, a second lateral wing312 and a bottom 313 forming the generic U-shape. The first lateral wing 311 and the bottom 313 usually forms a single piece while the second lateral wing313 is movable to insert and remove the window from the metallic sash. The second lateral wing can also be called glazing bead or fixing bead.

[0067] It is understood that in this case, the bottom 313 of the sash 3 is the bed of the sash in a sectional view as shown in FIG. 1. The lowest part 36 of the sash in a plane view is called the lower part of the sash as shown in FIG. 2.

[0068] The window is maintained inside the sash by a first dielectric gasket 33 attached to the first lateral wing and a second dielectric gasket 34 attached to the second lateral wing. These dielectric sash are well-known by the skilled person to ensure the tightness between the window and the sash.

[0069] The metallic sash has a generic shape similar to the shape of the window to accommodate the window into the sash. That means that the sash has as many sides as the window has. Usually, the window and the sash have, in the x- y plane, a generic rectangular shape has illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0070] In such rectangular shape, the sash comprises four parts : a lower part, in the lowest Y values, a top part, in the highest Y values and two sides parts.

[0071] According to the invention, the metallic sash can be made of aluminium, stainless steel or a coated metal structure. It is understood that in the essence of the invention, the metallic material is accessible for electric connection to the conductive gasket. That means that if the metallic sash is painted or with any other dielectric coating for protection then the paint, the dielectric coating has to be removed at least at the connection area between the sash and the conductive gasket.

[0072] Preferably, the metallic sash comprises insulation breaks to cut heat loss. In such embodiments, the metallic part has to be continue in a plane view.

[0073] The metallic sash can in some embodiments serves as a double skin fapade.<first conductive layer>

[0074] According to the invention, the window comprises a first conductive layer 6.

[0075] In the sense of the present invention, conductive means electrically conductive. Preferably, the conductivity is performed with a metallic layer with a conductivity greater than 10A5 S / m, preferably a conductivity greater than 10A6 S / m, and more preferably with a conductivity greater than 10 7 S / m.

[0076] This first conductive layer is disposed on the majority of the surface of the window.

[0077] According to some embodiments, the first conductive layer can be a coating system.

[0078] The coating system can be made of layers of different materials and at least one of this layer is electrically conductive. The coating system is electrically conductive over the majority of one major surface of the dielectric panel, in the x-y plane.

[0079] The coating system 3 of the present invention has an emissivity of not more than 0.4, preferably less than 0.2, in particular less than 0.1, less than 0.05 or even less than 0.04. The coating system of the present invention may comprise a metal based low emissive coating system; these coatings typically are a system of thin layers comprising one or more, for example two, three or four, functional layers based on an infrared radiation reflecting material and at least two dielectric coatings, wherein each functional layer is surrounded by dielectric coatings. The coating system of the present invention may in particular have an emissivity of at least 0.010. The functional layers are generally layers of silver with a thickness of some nanometres, mostly about 5 to 20nm. Concerning the dielectric layers, they are transparent and traditionally each dielectric layer is made from one or more layers of metal oxides and / or nitrides. These different layers are deposited, for example, by means of vacuum deposition techniques such as magnetic field-assisted cathodic sputtering, more commonly referred to as "magnetron sputtering", or Chemical deposition such as CVD or PECVD or any other known deposition method. In addition to the dielectric layers, each functional layer may be protected by barrier layers or improved by deposition on a wetting layer.

[0080] In some embodiments, the coating system can be a hard coating system such as CVD, PECVD.

[0081] In some other embodiments, the coating system can be a soft coating system such as PVD.

[0082] As the coating system, for example, a conductive film can be used. As the conductive film, for example, a laminated film obtained by sequentially laminating a transparent dielectric, a metal film, and a transparent dielectric, ITO, fluorine-added tin oxide (FTO), or the like can be used. As the metal film, for example, a film containing as a main component at least one selected from the group consisting of Ag, Au, Cu, and Al can be used.

[0083] Preferably, the coating system is placed on the majority of one surface of the glazing unit and more preferably on the whole usable surface of the glazing panel, in the x-y plane.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first conductive layer can be a metallic meshed structure.

[0085] In some embodiments, the metallic meshed structure can be a woven metallic mesh. Preferably, the meshed structure is a metal.

[0086] In some preferred embodiments, the meshed structure can be disposed on a plastic film.

[0087] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the window can further comprise a second conductive layer. The second conductive layer is disposed on another surface of the window.

[0088] The first and the second conductive layers can have the same or different composition depending on the desire application. <conductive element>

[0089] According to the invention, the window further comprises a conductive element 5. The conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer to avoid leakage of electromagnetic waves.

[0090] According to the invention, the conductive element comprises an exceeding element part 51 that extends outside of the lateral edges of the window. That means that the exceeding element part is out of the window all around the perimeter of the window.

[0091] It is understood that the exceeding element part is conductive.

[0092] In some embodiments, the conductive element can be made of the same material than the first conductive layer.

[0093] In some other embodiments, the conductive element can comprises a metal-based material.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first conductive layer and the conductive element can be made of a single piece. In embodiments where the first conductive layer is a metallic meshed structure, the metallic meshed structure can be first conductive layer and the conductive element meaning that the metallic meshed structure extends outside of the lateral edges of the window.

[0095] In some embodiments, the conductive element comprises a conductive tape preferably a double-sided conductive tape. The conductive tape can comprises Cu or Al or Ni or alike.

[0096] In some embodiments, the said conductive tape is folded back on at least a part of a surface of the window. It is understood that the surface is one of the external surface of the window, one of the surface facing outside of the window. cConductive gasket>

[0097] According to the invention, the electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a conductive gasket 4. The conductive gasket connects by an electrical connection the said exceeding element part 51 to the bottom 313 of the metallic sash. The electrical connection is performed all around the window to avoid any leakage of electromagnetic waves.

[0098] In some embodiments, a second conductive layer can also be electrically connected to the conductive gasket.

[0099] In some embodiments, the second conductive layer can be directly connected to the exceeding element part.

[0100] Preferably, the connection of the second conductive layer is performed all-around the edges of the second conductive layer.

[0101] In some embodiments, the window can comprise more than two conductive layers. Each of these layers can be connected to the conductive gasket directly or indirectly depending on the application.

[0102] As illustrated in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, according to some embodiments, the conductive gasket can have a core 41 made of a dielectric material and a conductive layer 42 surrounding the core. The conductive layer has to be electrically continuous between the exceeding element part 51 and the bottom 313 and all around the perimeter of the window.

[0103] In such embodiments, the core is designed to be flexible or compressive to match the space between the window and the bottom of the sash.

[0104] In some embodiments, the core of the conductive gasket can be made of PVC or EPDM.

[0105] In some embodiments, the conductive layer is made of conductive coating, a conductive textile or a knitted wire mesh.

[0106] In some preferred embodiments, the conductive gasket comprises a hole 43 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. The hole permits to the conductive gasket, especially the core to be flexible and / or compressive.

[0107] To correctly position the window into the sash, the electromagnetic shielding system can comprises setting blocks designed to be rigid and dimensionally stable.

[0108] According to some embodiments, setting blocks can be inserted into the hole of the conductive gasket.

[0109] In some preferred embodiments, the conductive gasket comprises an opening 44 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. In such embodiments, the conductive gasket has a generic sectional C-shape to easily insert a setting block into the hole 43. In these embodiments, the C-shape permits to the conductive gasket to be flexible and compressive. To ensure the correct position of the window inside the sash, in such embodiments, setting blocks having the corresponding thickness can easily be inserted into the hole. More preferably, the opening of the gasket is oriented towards the second lateral wing.

[0110] FIG. 6 illustrates some embodiments in which the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window comprising a first glass sheet 21, and a second glass sheet 22. The electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a metallic sash 3 enclosing the window. The window further comprises a first conductive layer 6 in a form of a metallic meshed structure and disposed on a plastic film 24.

[0111] The metallic meshed structure is preferably a metallic mesh in form of a grid. The grid can have any shape such as rectangular, hex, squared, circular, ••• in order to shield against EM fields at a given range of wavelengths.

[0112] The metallic meshed structure can be advantageously a transparent metallic meshed structure made of transparent semiconductor materials such as Indium Thin Oxide.

[0113] Preferably, the material of the metallic meshed structure itself is not transparent. Thanks to the meshing the light can pass through and the metallic meshed structure becomes transparent.

[0114] The metallic meshed structure can be made by any known methods such as pulverisation, vacuum evaporation, laser ablation, chemical deposition (silvering, coppering, gilding, aluminiuming, tinning, nickeling...), silkscreen printing, electrolytic deposit, chemical deposition in vapour phase (CVD, PECVD, OMCVD ...), etc.

[0115] The openings of the metallic meshed structure can be made by standard methods such as photolithography from a photomask or a mask transferred by laser writer onto a reserve and associated chemical etching, or any other known method.

[0116] A coating can be applied on top and / or the bottom of the metallic meshed structure, preferably a blackened coating to protect the metallic material while reducing the diffusion.

[0117] The conductive metallic meshed structure can be obtained from a metallic foil machined in such a way it becomes optically transparent while keeping an electrical opacity. This machining is called "meshing" and is described as follows.

[0118] The metallic meshing is for example of iron, nickel, chrome, titanium, tantalum, molybdenum, tin, indium, zinc, tungsten, platinum, manganese, magnesium, lead, preferably made of silver, copper, gold or aluminum or alloy of metals selected according to conductivity electrical. It typically takes the form of a grid whereof the ratio between the dimension of the openings of the mesh and the width of the metallic tracks of the mesh defines the level of optical transparency of the sheet.

[0119] It is specified here that dimensioning of the meshing is characterized by its pitch (or its periodicity), by the width and the thickness of the conductive tracks (or by the opening made in the pitch).

[0120] Preferably, the thickness and the width of the meshing is equal to or higher than three times the skin depth of the metallic material at the given range of wavelengths, preferably thickness and the width of the meshing is equal to or higher than four times the skin depth of the metallic material at the given range of wavelengths, and more preferably thickness and the width of the meshing isequal to or higher than five times the skin depth of the metallic material at the given range of wavelengths.

[0121] The optical transparency of the metallic meshed structure, TLm, is defined, in a first approximation, as the ratio of opened surfaces over total surface. The ratio can be adapted to obtain the desired optical transparency keeping an electrical opacity.

[0122] From the electrical point of view, the unit cell of the grid should much lower than the operating wavelength of an enclosed antenna system, given by the operating frequency f, in GigaHertz (GHz).

[0123] Preferably, the meshed structure is a woven metallic mesh and more preferably a fine woven metallic mesh to have this optical transparency while keeping the electrical opacity.

[0124] In some embodiments, the meshed structure is a metal, such as copper, Aluminium, silver, stainless steel.

[0125] The meshed structure can be disposed on a plastic film, preferably with a thickness of 25 to 200 pm. The plastic film is preferably a polymer film and a transparent polymer film. Preferably, transparent polymer film can be polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a polycarbonate (PC), a polystyrene (PS), a polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a polyamide (PA), a polyetherimide (PEI), a polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a polyurethane, an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), a styrene acrylonitrile copolymer (SAN), a styrene methyl methacrylate copolymer (SM MA) and any mixtures of these, a crosslinked resin, an ionoplast, an ionomer, a cyclo-olefin polymer (COP), cyclo-Olefin copolymer (COC) or an Optical Clear Adhesive (OCA).

[0126] In the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 6, the first conductive layer 6 and the conductive element 5 are made of a single material, the metallic meshed structure. That means that the metallic meshed structure extends outside of the lateral edges of the window to be connected to the bottom of the sash via the conductive gasket 4.

[0127] In some embodiments, the electromagnetic shielding system can further comprises a conductive tape 7. The conductive tape can be disposed between the conductive gasket 4 and the exceeding part 51 to ensure the electrical connection or to protect the exceeding part during the installation and transport.

[0128] FIG.7 illustrates some embodiments in which the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window comprising a first glass sheet 21and a second glass sheet 22. The first glass sheet 21 and the second glass sheet 22 are separated by an interlayer. The interlayer can be a gap filled of gas to form a IGU, a VIG or a thermoplastic interlayer to form a laminated window. The electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a metallic sash 3 enclosing the window.

[0129] The first glass sheet is larger than the second glass sheet. The window further comprises a first conductive layer 6 disposed on the first glass sheet. The first conductive layer is extended outside of the window due to the size of the first glass sheet. The first conductive layer and the conductive layer are formed in a single material that can be a coating system or a meshed structure.

[0130] In such embodiments, the conductive layer can be connected to the conductive gasket 4 directly or via a conductive tape 6 depending on the desire application.

[0131] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the conductive tape can follow edges of the windows and glass sheets to ensure the continuity of the connection.

[0132] FIG.8 illustrates some embodiments in which the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window comprising a first glass sheet 21and a second glass sheet 22. The first glass sheet 21 and the second glass sheet 22 are separated by an interlayer. The interlayer can be a gap filled of gas to form a IGU, a VIG or a thermoplastic interlayer to form a laminated window. The electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a metallic sash 3 enclosing the window.

[0133] In embodiments illustrated in FIG. 8, the conductive layer and the first conductive layer are not made of a single material. The first conductive layer can be a coating system and a conductive layer is attached to the coating system and going out of the window to be connected to the conductive gasket.

[0134] FIG. 9 illustrates some embodiments in which the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window comprising a first glass sheet 21and a second glass sheet 22. The first glass sheet 21 and the second glass sheet 22 are separated by an interlayer. The interlayer can be a gap filled of gas to form a IGU, a VIG or a thermoplastic interlayer to form a laminated window. Theelectromagnetic shielding system further comprises a metallic sash 3 enclosing the window.

[0135] The first conductive layer 6 is disposed on the external surface of the second glass sheet. The first conductive layer and the conductive layer are formed as a single material. Preferably, the first conductive layer is a hard coating system to avoid scratches and moisture problems.

[0136] It is understood that in some embodiments the first conductive layer can be disposed on the external surface of the first glass sheet.

[0137] In the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 9, a conductive tape can be added and folded on the first conductive layer to ensure the connection with the conductive gasket 4.

[0138] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the present invention relates to an assembling method 300 to assemble an electromagnetic shielding system according to the invention. The assembling method comprises ordered following steps:Al. Providing 301 a part of the metallic sash comprising the bottom and the first lateral wing with the first dielectric gasketA2. P roviding 302 the conductive gasketA3. Installing 303 the conductive gasket against the bottom to connect the conductive gasket to the bottomA4. Providing 304 the windowA5. Installing 305 the window against the conductive gasket to connect the exceeding part to the conductive gasketA6. Closing 306 the sash with the second lateral wing with the second dielectric gasket.

[0139] In some embodiments, the conductive gasket can be made of several parts that have to be connected together in the sash to have a conductive gasket all around the window.

[0140] In preferred embodiments, the conductive gasket is installed at the lower part of the sash then at the side parts and finally at the top part whether in one piece or in several parts.

[0141] In the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 9, a conductive tape can be added and folded on the first conductive layer to ensure the connection with the conductive gasket 4.

[0142] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the present invention also relates, in a third aspect, to an retrofit installation method 400 to obtain an electromagnetic shielded volume.

[0143] The retrofit installation method comprises following steps :Bl. Opening 401 the metallic sash with the second lateral wing B2. Removing 402 the existing windowB3. Providing 403 a window comprises a first conductive layer and a conductive element; the conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer; the conductive element comprises an exceeding element part that extends outside of the lateral edges of the window B4. P roviding 404 a conductive gasket B5. Installing 405 the conductive gasket against the bottom to connect the conductive gasket to the bottomB6. Installing 406 the window against the conductive gasket to connect the exceeding part to the conductive gasketB7. Closing 407 the sash with the second lateral wing with the second dielectric gasket to create an electromagnetic shielding system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0144] In preferred embodiments, to assemble or to retrofit an electromagnetic shielding system, the conductive gasket has a generic sectional C-shape. The conductive gasket is disposed on the bottom of the sash at the lower part of the sash. Some setting blocks can be inserted in the opening of the conductive gasket to ensure the correct positioning of the window inside the sash. Then the window is positioned against the conductive gasket at the lower part of the metallic sash. After that the conductive gasket is correctly positioned between the window and the sash at the side parts of the sash. Some other settings blocks can be added to tilt correctly the window inside the sash. Then the conductive gasket is correctly positioned at the top part of the sash. After these steps, the sash can be closed to maintain the window thanks to the second lateral wing.

[0145] It is understood that if the sash is not rectangular, then the first step is to start from the lower part to the upper part.

[0146] The present invention permits to obtain a system able to close a volume and shield the volume with an easy and configurable installation even if the window and the sash are not fully corresponding in term of dimensions and shape while ensuring the all-around connection between the window and the metallic sash.

Claims

ClaimsClaim 1. Electromagnetic shielding system (1) ; the electromagnetic shielding system comprises a window (2) and a metallic sash (3) enclosing the window; the window comprises a first conductive layer (6) and a conductive element (5) ; the conductive element is connected to the first conductive layer all around the perimeter of the first conductive layer; the conductive element comprises an exceeding element part (51) that extends outside of the lateral edges of the window; the metallic sash has a generic U-shape having a first lateral wing (311), a second lateral wing (312) and a bottom (313); the window is maintained inside the sash by a first dielectric gasket (33) attached to the first lateral wing and a second dielectric gasket (34) attached to the second lateral wing characterized in that the electromagnetic shielding system further comprises a conductive gasket (4) ; the conductive gasket connects by an electrical connection the said exceeding element part to the bottom of the metallic sash; and in that the electrical connection is performed all around the window.Claim 2. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claim 1, wherein the conductive gasket has a core 41 made of a dielectric material and a conductive layer 42 surrounding the core.Claim 3. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claim 2, wherein the core of the conductive gasket is made of PVC or EPDM.Claim 4. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claims 2 to 3, wherein the conductive layer is made of conductive coating, a conductive textile or a knitted wire mesh.Claim 5. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims, wherein the window comprises a first dielectric panel.Claim 6. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims, wherein the first dielectric panel comprises a glass sheet.Claim 7. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims, wherein the window further comprises a second conductive layer.Claim 8. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claim 7, wherein the second conductive layer is electrically connected to the conductive gasket.Claim 9. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any claims 1 to 8, wherein the first conductive layer is a coating system.Claim 10. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any claims 1 to 8, wherein the first conductive layer is a metallic meshed structure.Claim 11. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claim 10, wherein the metallic meshed structure is a woven metallic mesh, preferably the meshed structure is a metal.Claim 12. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims, wherein the first conductive layer and the conductive element are made of a single piece.Claim 13. Electromagnetic shielding system according to claims 1 to 12, wherein the conductive element comprises a conductive tape preferably a double-sided conductive tape.Claim 14. Electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims, wherein the said conductive tape is folded back on at least one surface of the window.Claim 15. Assembling method (300) to assemble an electromagnetic shielding system according to any preceding claims; the assembling method comprises following steps:Al. providing a part of the metallic sash comprising the bottom (313) and the first lateral wing (311) with the first dielectric gasket (33)A2. Providing the conductive gasket (4)A3. Installing the conductive gasket against the bottom to connect the conductive gasket to the bottomA4. Providing the windowA5. Installing the window against the conductive gasket to connect the exceeding part to the conductive gasketA6. Closing the sash with the second lateral wing (312) with the second dielectric gasket (34).

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