Glass Dome Device with Gas-Filled Insulation for Load Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof devices face issues with rainwater accumulation, reduced light permeability after exposure to rain and sun, and inadequate resistance to static loads such as snow, while multi-walled plastic domes lack durability and glass windows do not integrate well with flat elements.
Innovation Solution
A dome device combining a substantially flat light-transmitting element with a glass dome element, featuring a closed connecting device and spacer to create a gas-filled space, enhancing insulation and resistance, and optionally incorporating a second glass plate for improved impact resistance and fire classification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a multi-walled plastic dome structure is used, then rainwater resistance and dome shape are improved, but light permeability and durability deteriorate after exposure to rain and sun
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining glass dome element with flat light-transmitting element (glass or plastic), creating a multi-material system that leverages the weather resistance of glass and the light transmission properties of the flat element, resolving the contradiction between rainwater resistance and light permeability durability
Solution Approach 2:
The dome device is segmented into multiple functional components: glass dome element for rainwater shedding, flat light-transmitting element for light transmission, and connecting device for structural integration. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified system
2Illumination intensity
If a flat glass plate structure is used, then light permeability is improved, but resistance to static loads such as snow deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a domed glass element with curved geometry that provides structural strength against static loads like snow, while maintaining high light transmission. The curved shape distributes mechanical stress more effectively than flat surfaces, resolving the contradiction between light permeability and load resistance
3Strength
If a glass dome element is used, then static load resistance is improved, but integration with flat light-transmitting elements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a connecting device as an intermediary component that seamlessly integrates the glass dome element with the flat light-transmitting element. This connecting device includes sealing and structural components that facilitate easy assembly and disassembly, reducing integration complexity while maintaining structural integrity and load resistance
4Loss of energy
If spacers are used to create distance between elements, then insulation and condensation prevention are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural connection, sealing, and spacing functions. By integrating multiple functions into a single component rather than using separate spacers and seals, the invention improves thermal insulation and condensation prevention while minimizing the increase in device complexity
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 provides a durable, rainwater-resistant, and energy-efficient dome device with improved light transmission and static load resistance, while maintaining economic viability by using ETFE films and spacers to prevent condensation and enhance sealing.
Implementation Method 1
A gas is included in this closed space
Implementation Method 2
A desiccant, such as a silica gel, can optionally be incorporated in the material of the spacer. If vapour were present between the glass dome element and the first element, it could be absorbed into the desiccant, such that condensation in the closed space is avoided
Data Source
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AI summary
Dome device comprising a substantially flat first glass plate, a glass dome element and closed connecting device between a peripheral part of the first element and a peripheral part of the glass dome element, such that a closed space is formed between the first element and the glass dome element; wherein a gas is included in the closed space.