Insulated Glass Units with Integrated Emitters and Conductive Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional insulated glass units (IGUs) lack versatility and functionality beyond serving as a passive heat barrier and light transmitter, with limited ability to function as an active light source or convey information.
Innovation Solution
Integration of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) into the airspace of IGUs, along with techniques to maintain a hermetic seal and provide an external power source connection using conductive interfaces like bus bars and thin films.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If emitters are integrated into IGUs to provide active lighting and information display functions, then the functionality and versatility of IGUs are enhanced, but the device complexity increases due to the need for power connections and sealing modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the IGU structure: the edge seal serves both its traditional sealing function and houses conductive interfaces for power delivery; the spacer element integrates both structural spacing and electrical connection pathways; and the emitter assembly merges lighting/display functionality with the window structure itself, eliminating the need for separate mounting systems
Solution Approach 2:
The edge seal is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: maintaining the hermetic seal between glass panes, providing a mechanical mounting structure for electrical components, and incorporating conductive interfaces for power delivery. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
2Reliability
If a hermetic seal is maintained around the periphery of the IGU to protect internal components, then the reliability and protection of internal components are improved, but the ease of operation for connecting power and control signals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive interface acts as an intermediary element that bridges the hermetic seal and the external environment. It provides a controlled pathway for electrical signals and power while maintaining the seal's integrity, effectively mediating between the need for protection and the need for connectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive interfaces are pre-integrated into the edge seal structure during manufacturing, rather than requiring post-installation modifications. This preliminary integration ensures the seal remains hermetic while connectivity is already established, eliminating the need for drilling or sealing modifications after installation
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional single pane windows are used to maintain simplicity and low cost, then the ease of manufacture and low cost are preserved, but the thermal insulation performance deteriorates with low R-value
Solution Approach 1:
The IGU employs a composite structure combining multiple glass panes, gas-filled spaces, edge seals, and integrated emitter components. This composite design provides superior thermal insulation compared to single-pane windows while remaining manufacturable through established IGU production processes
4Adaptability or versatility
If emitters are integrated into IGUs to transform windows into active light sources, then the functionality and aesthetic value are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The emitter system is segmented into modular assemblies that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the IGU structure. This segmentation allows specialized emitter components to be produced separately using appropriate techniques, then assembled into the final window unit, reducing overall manufacturing 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
Enables IGUs to function as active light sources with natural light-like coloration, enhance aesthetics, provide additional lighting, and serve as display units or security systems, while maintaining thermal insulation and hermetic sealing.
Implementation Method 1
Integration of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) into the airspace of IGUs
Implementation Method 2
organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs)
Implementation Method 3
polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs)
Implementation Method 4
maintain a hermetic seal around the periphery of the IGU
Implementation Method 5
provide an external power source connection using conductive interfaces like bus bars and thin films
Implementation Method 6
an optionally gas filled pocket therebetween
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Certain example embodiments relate to an improved IGU (200, 300, 500, 600) with first (202, 302, 504, 604) and second (204, 304, 504, 604) glass substrates, spaced apart and defining a gap (212, 309) therebetween. An edge seal is provided around a periphery of the first and second substrates, the edge seal forming an hermetic seal in certain example instances. An emitter (208, 310) is disposed in the gap defined by the first and second glass substrates. A conductive interface (210, 312) is provided through the edge seal, and is arranged to interface with the emitter and to provide electrical current to the emitter. The conductive interface in certain example embodiments may include one or more bus bars, one or more pattered thin film lines, etc.