Inclined Building Window Waterproofing via Projecting Pane

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window systems face challenges in providing satisfactory waterproofing, especially when mounted at low inclinations, and have complex systems for protecting motor operators and devices on the outer side of the frame structure.

Innovation Solution

A window system design where the projecting pane element covers the transition between the pane and sash structures, and includes a frame extension element and sealing elements that create a continuous, watertight surface, preventing water, snow, and ice from entering the window structure by directing them onto a resistant surface or flashing member, with a bottom covering element and sealing element ensuring effective sealing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional window system is used with motor operator on the outer side of the frame, then the window can be operated automatically, but the waterproofing at the lower outer side becomes insufficient and the covering system becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovewaterproofingVSAvoidcovering system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pane element is designed to project beyond the plane of the sash and frame structures, creating a stepped configuration. This dimensional extension allows the pane to form a protective lip that directs water away from critical areas, eliminating the need for complex covering systems while maintaining reliable waterproofing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The pane element itself serves dual functions: as the transparent barrier and as the waterproofing feature. By extending the pane to cover the lower outer side, the system uses the pane's own structure to provide protection, eliminating the need for separate complex covering systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the pane element projects further to cover the operator area, then waterproofing improves, but the complexity of protecting the operator increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovewaterproofingVSAvoidoperator protection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The extended pane element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary transparent barrier, creates waterproofing at the transition areas, and protects the operator from water and debris. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate operator protection systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The pane element protects itself and the operator by extending to cover the operator area. The same structural element that provides the transparent barrier also creates the protective lip that directs water away from the operator, making the system self-sufficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3039200B1A window adapted for being mounted in an inclined surface of a building and a method for water proofing such a window
Publication Date: 2017.07.12 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP3039200B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3039200B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3039200B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A window system adapted for being mounted in an inclined surface of a building and comprising a frame and a sash, a pane, and at least one operator arranged on an outer side of the frame opposite the inner opening and at the lower surface thereof. At least one sheet element of the pane projects over the lower surfaces of the sash structure and the frame structure away from the inner opening, and the window system further includes a frame extension element,at least one bottom covering element and at least one sealing element. The frame extension element is attached to a frame bottom member and projects with a distal edge towards a lower edge of the pane, and the covering and sealing elements close a gap between the distal edge of the frame extension element and the pane, the sealing element being in contact both with a sheet element of the pane element and with the bottom covering element in the closed state of the window. The window system preferably comprises a bottom covering element on the sash or pane and a sealing element on the frame extension element.