Channel-Section Glazing with Integral Plastic Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved glazing unit that enhances energy performance, is suitable for retrofitting into existing systems, and simplifies production and installation.
Innovation Solution
A glazing configuration comprising first and second channel-section glazing elements with an inner plastic glazing element between them, where the inner glazing element has a central portion and edge portions with connection portions that are integrally formed and in mechanical communication with the flanges of the channel-section glazing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional triple glazed windows with three spaced apart panes of glass are used, then visibility and transparency are maintained, but thermal insulation performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure combining glass channel-section elements with an inner plastic glazing element. The plastic material provides superior thermal insulation properties compared to traditional glass-only configurations, creating a hybrid system that leverages the advantages of both materials to improve energy performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner plastic glazing element is nested within the channel-section structure formed by the glass elements. The channel-section elements have hollow cavities that accommodate the inner plastic element, creating a nested configuration that maximizes thermal insulation while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate clips are used to hold glass sheets in position, then assembly and disassembly are simplified, but manufacturing complexity and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the holding function directly into the channel-section glass elements themselves. The channel sections are designed with features that directly secure the inner plastic glazing element, eliminating the need for separate clips or fasteners. This merging of structural and fastening functions reduces component count and simplifies manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel-section glass elements are self-sufficient in providing both structural support and fastening functionality. The design allows the glazing unit to assemble and secure itself without requiring additional external fastening components, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed glazing solution improves energy performance by enhancing thermal insulation and simplifies production and installation by eliminating the need for separate clips and reducing inventory costs.
Implementation Method 1
an inner glazing element made of plastic is located between the first and second channel-section glazing elements
Data Source
AI summary
Glazings including first and second channel-section glazing elements are described. The first and second channel-section glazing elements are arranged to define a cavity in which an inner glazing element made of plastic is located. The inner glazing element includes a central portion and first and second edge portions running along opposite sides of the central portion. The first edge portion of the inner glazing element includes a first connection portion in mechanical communication with a first flange of the first channel-section glazing element. The first connection portion is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element. In preferred embodiments the second edge portion of the inner glazing also includes a second connection portion that is preferably integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.