Electrochromic Window Framing With Accessible IGU Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of electrochromic windows is challenging, costly, time-consuming, and prone to damage, leading to inconsistent results and difficulties in maintenance due to the complex routing of cables and controllers.
Innovation Solution
The development of assemblies with insulated glass units (IGUs) and frames that include intermediate horizontal members to route IGU cables, allowing for unitized or stick build configurations that facilitate uniform, robust construction and reduce installation costs and damage, with features like removable covers and cable retention systems for easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex cable routing is used to connect IGUs and controllers, then electrical connections can be established, but installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is divided into multiple components including intermediate horizontal members, vertical members, and removable covers that can be assembled separately. The cable routing is segmented into defined paths through these components, allowing installers to assemble the frame first and then route cables through pre-defined channels rather than performing complex routing during final assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate horizontal members as intermediary structures between IGUs and controllers. These members include cable retention features and openings that facilitate cable routing. The removable covers act as intermediaries that provide access to cable routing paths and controller connections, simplifying the installation process by allowing cables to be routed through established channels rather than requiring complex custom routing.
2Reliability
If cables are routed through the frame structure, then electrical connections are established, but the risk of cable damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cable retention features directly into the frame structure, including channels, openings, and support elements that protect cables from damage before installation occurs. The removable covers are designed with integrated cable protection features that cushion and protect cables during routing and connection. This beforehand protection prevents cable damage during installation and operation without requiring additional protective measures.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate horizontal members serve as intermediary protective structures that guide and protect cables between IGUs and controllers. These members include dedicated cable pathways and retention features that prevent cables from being damaged by the frame structure or other components. The removable covers provide an additional intermediary layer that protects cables during installation and maintenance operations.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the frame structure is made robust for structural support, then assembly stability improves, but accessibility for maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is segmented into multiple removable components including removable covers that can be detached without disassembling the entire frame. This segmentation allows the main frame structure to remain robust and stable while providing easy access to cable routing paths and controllers through the removable covers. Installers and maintenance personnel can access internal components by simply removing the covers rather than disassembling the entire frame assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates removable covers that can be dynamically added or removed from the frame structure. These covers provide access to cable routing paths and controllers during maintenance operations, then can be reattached to restore the robust sealed structure. This dynamic element allows the frame to transition between a stable closed state for structural support and an accessible open state for maintenance, without compromising the overall structural integrity when closed.
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 solution enables efficient, reliable, and cost-effective integration of electrochromic windows by reducing installation time and costs, minimizing damage, and ensuring consistent performance through standardized cable routing and maintenance accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in an optical property when placed in a different electronic state, typically by being subjected to a voltage change.
Implementation Method 2
Tungsten oxide is a cathodic electrochromic material in which a coloration transition, transparent to blue, occurs by electrochemical reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
Assemblies having first and second insulated glass units with one or more IGU cables and frame having an intermediate horizontal member interposed between IGUs, wherein the frame is configured to pass the one or more IGU cables into the intermediate horizontal member.