Electrical Spacer Bar Transfer for Space-Constrained Glass Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electrical wiring connection systems face challenges in installations where space or material constraints hinder the installation of electricity-generating devices, compromising the integrity and insulating value of framing systems.

Innovation Solution

An Inter- and Inner Connection Spacer Bar Transfer and Receiving Device (E-SBTD) system that integrates with electricity-generating glass products (EGPs) to facilitate efficient electron transfer while maintaining insulating and aesthetic properties, using E-SBTD and E-SBRD components for secure and watertight connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional electrical wiring connection systems are used with discrete points of contact, then electrical connection can be established, but installation becomes difficult or impossible due to space constraints and hardness of adjoining materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidinstallation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection system is segmented into multiple contact points distributed along the spacer bar rather than relying on a single discrete connection point. This allows the electrical connection to be established through multiple locations, improving reliability while accommodating installation constraints in hard or confined spaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spacer bar serves as an intermediary element that facilitates electrical connection between the glass panes and the mounting structure. By incorporating conductive features into the spacer bar, the system enables electrical connection without requiring direct access to discrete points on the glass or mounting hardware, thereby simplifying installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If drilling or cutting access points is performed to accommodate conventional wiring connections, then electrical connection can be established, but the integrity and insulating value of the framing system is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidintegrity of framing system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection function is extracted from the primary structural framing system and integrated into the spacer bar assembly. This allows electrical connections to be established through the spacer bar without requiring drilling or cutting into the main framing structure, thereby preserving the integrity and insulating value of the framing system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The spacer bar is designed to perform multiple functions: providing mechanical support for the glass panes, maintaining the seal between panes, and facilitating electrical connection. By integrating electrical conductivity into the spacer bar, the system achieves electrical connection without compromising the structural and insulating functions of the framing system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If penetration of rigid extrusions is performed to install electrical components, then electrical connection can be established, but the insulating value and integrity of the framing system is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidinsulating value
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection function is extracted from the rigid extrusion framing system and relocated to the spacer bar assembly. This eliminates the need to penetrate the rigid extrusions, thereby preserving their insulating value and structural integrity while still enabling electrical connection through the spacer bar's conductive features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Reliability

If conventional discrete point connections are used, then electrical connection can be established, but installation costs and complexity increase due to additional connectors and junction boxes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidinstallation system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection function is merged with the spacer bar assembly, eliminating the need for separate connectors and junction boxes. The spacer bar itself serves as the electrical conduit, integrating the electrical connection function into the existing structural component and thereby reducing overall system complexity and installation costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The spacer bar is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical support, sealing, and electrical connection. This consolidation of functions into a single component reduces the number of separate parts needed, simplifying the installation system and reducing costs associated with additional connectors and junction boxes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12352099B2Electrical spacer bar transfer device for electricity-generating surface
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 SOLARWINDOW TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US12352099B2 patent drawing
  • US12352099B2 patent drawing
  • US12352099B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system including an electrical spacer bar transfer device (E-SBTD) and an electrical spacer bar receiving device (E-SBRD), wherein the electrical spacer bar transfer device (E-SBTD) is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical spacer bar receiving device (E-SBRD).