Framed Glass Block Wall Assembly for Tight-Clearance Curved Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional glass block walls require significant clearance behind the wall for construction, limiting their installation in spaces where space is constrained or adjacent to existing walls, and they are typically straight and linear, reducing versatility.
Innovation Solution
A glass block assembly system with a frame composed of horizontal and vertical rigid members forming a grid, allowing for installation with minimal clearance by using padding material and a sealant to secure glass blocks within cells, enabling curvature and hiding the framework for an 'all glass' aesthetic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional glass block wall construction is used, then the wall provides natural light and privacy, but it requires significant clearance (2-3 feet or more) behind the wall for construction and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The wall is divided into individual glass block units that can be independently installed within a framework system. Each block is separated by grout joints, allowing the wall to be constructed in modular sections that can accommodate limited clearance spaces behind the installation area.
Solution Approach 2:
A framework system acts as an intermediary structure between the glass blocks and the backing wall. This framework includes furring strips or battens that create a mounting surface, allowing the glass blocks to be installed close to the backing wall while maintaining proper construction clearance through the framework's depth.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional glass block wall construction is used, then the wall is structurally sound, but it must be straight and linear, reducing design versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The framework system is designed to be adaptable and configurable rather than rigid and fixed. Furring strips can be arranged in various patterns and orientations, allowing the wall to follow curved paths, angles, or custom geometries while maintaining structural integrity through the flexible framework configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework system enables curved wall configurations by arranging furring strips in curved patterns. This allows glass blocks to be installed on curved surfaces, transforming the traditional straight linear wall into versatile curved or angled designs that adapt to different architectural requirements.
3Area of stationary object
If glass blocks are installed close to the backing wall, then space is saved, but access for construction and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The framework system serves as an intermediary that creates a built-in working space between the glass blocks and the backing wall. This framework depth provides adequate clearance for mortar application, block adjustment, and maintenance activities while keeping the overall wall profile compact and space-efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing clearance in the horizontal plane behind the wall, the framework creates vertical and lateral working space through its three-dimensional structure. This allows construction and maintenance access from the front and sides of the wall while maintaining minimal clearance requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A transparent or translucent block assembly and method thereof has a frame with a plurality of spaced apart horizontal plates and a plurality of spaced apart vertical plates that intersect in a grid configuration defining a plurality of cells between respective plates. The frame is to be installed at a location within a building that offsets the plates a dimensional distance from a rear wall in the building that is less than two feet but greater than a direct connection to the rear wall. There are a plurality of transparent or translucent blocks, wherein one transparent or translucent block is disposed within one cell. There may be a padding material that surrounds the transparent or translucent block in each cell. The transparent or translucent block and padding material may be sealed into the frame via a sealant that is free of mortar.