Frameless Sash Window Assembly for Hidden Frame Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frameless sashes with visible fixed frames compromise thermal insulation and aesthetics, particularly when made of materials like aluminium, which are aesthetically less pleasing and require complex installation.
Innovation Solution
A frameless sash design with inner and outer glazings having peripheral regions that cover at least 60% of the fixed frame's inner face, combined with a fixed frame made of recycled wood, wood composite, or recycled polymer, and enhanced sealing and insulating elements to minimize heat exchange and improve aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If aluminium fixed frames are used for thermal insulation, then thermal performance is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies surface coating or tinting to the fixed frame to change its visual appearance. The frame can be coated with materials that match the glazing color or provide a uniform aesthetic finish, transforming the appearance of aluminium or other metallic frames to be less visually intrusive while maintaining the thermal insulation properties of the original material.
2Loss of energy
If aluminium fixed frames are used for thermal insulation, then thermal performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the thermal insulation function from the structural framing function. By using a simple structural frame (which can be easily installed) and adding thermal insulation layers or thermal break components as separate elements, the system achieves thermal performance without requiring complex integrated aluminium frame constructions.
3Strength
If visible fixed frames are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed frame surface is treated with coating or tinting to match the glazing or provide a uniform appearance. This allows the structurally necessary frame to remain visible but aesthetically acceptable, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different surface treatments or coatings to different parts of the frame. Areas that are more visible or aesthetically critical receive special treatment (such as tinting or coating to match glazing), while less visible areas can use simpler finishes, optimizing both structural integrity and aesthetic appearance locally.
4Shape
If frameless sash design is used, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but thermal insulation deteriorates due to visible fixed frames
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite material constructions for the fixed frame, combining materials with different properties. For example, a metallic structural core provides strength while an insulating material layer (such as polymer or foam) provides thermal insulation. This composite structure allows the frameless sash aesthetic to be maintained while improving thermal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal insulation elements as intermediary components between the inner and outer environments. These can include insulating strips, thermal breaks, or insulation layers integrated into the fixed frame structure, which mediate heat transfer and improve thermal insulation without compromising the frameless aesthetic appearance.
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 design achieves improved thermal insulation and uniform aesthetics by reducing visible fixed frame exposure, allowing for the use of less aesthetically pleasing materials while maintaining high energy efficiency and simplified installation.
Implementation Method 1
the inner and outer peripheral regions have a visible light transmission, TL, at least 50% lower than the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101), outside of the respective inner and outer peripheral regions
Implementation Method 2
enhanced sealing and insulating elements to minimize heat exchange and improve aesthetics
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2(a)
Figure 2(b)
AI summary
The present invention concerns a window comprising: • a frameless sash comprising an inner glazing and an outer glazing separated by at least one gap defined within a peripheral spacer, an inner frame profile lodged within a volume defined between the inner and outer glazings and between the peripheral spacer and the inner and outer perimeters, the inner (10n) and outer (101) glazing comprising an inner (14n) and outer (141) peripheral region extending inwardly from an edge, along the inner and outer glazing perimeters, and having a visible light transmission, at least 50% lower than the inner (10n) and outer (1 01) glazing, and • a fixed frame, wherein, when the frameless sash is in the closed position, at least part of the surface area of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n).