Laminated VIG Frame Assembly for Thermal Deflection Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) units experience significant thermal deflection due to temperature differences between glass sheets, leading to stress and potential damage, especially when constrained by traditional framing systems, which can compromise the vacuum seal and reduce the VIG unit's lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with recessed portions and flexible connection arrangements that allow the VIG unit to thermally deflect while protecting the sealing system, using resilient suspension elements and fixation systems to absorb bending moments, thereby reducing stress and extending the VIG unit's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional framing systems constrain the VIG unit, then the VIG unit is held securely in the frame, but thermal deflection causes stress and potential damage to the sealing system
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly incorporates resilient suspension elements that allow dynamic movement and deflection accommodation. The frame transitions from a rigid constraint system to a dynamic one that can absorb thermal expansion and contraction forces, preventing stress concentration on the sealing system while maintaining secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient suspension elements change their mechanical properties (stiffness, damping) in response to thermal deflection forces. The frame assembly adapts its constraint characteristics based on temperature conditions, providing firm support under normal conditions while allowing controlled deflection during thermal cycles to protect the sealing system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the frame rigidly constrains the VIG unit edges, then the VIG unit is stable in position, but thermal expansion and contraction create stress that can damage the sealing system
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient suspension elements are pre-configured to provide cushioning before thermal stress becomes damaging. These elements are designed with appropriate initial deflection and damping characteristics to absorb thermal expansion and contraction forces before they can transmit harmful stress to the sealing system, while still maintaining position stability.
3Reliability
If the frame allows free thermal deflection, then stress on the sealing system is reduced, but the VIG unit may become misaligned or loose in the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient suspension elements act as intermediaries between the VIG unit and the rigid frame structure. These elements mediate the interaction by providing a compliant connection that allows controlled deflection to protect the sealing system while simultaneously maintaining adequate constraint to prevent excessive misalignment or loosening of the VIG unit in the frame.
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 frame assembly effectively manages thermal deflection, protecting the sealing system and maintaining the vacuum seal, leading to a longer-lasting VIG unit that can withstand varying temperature conditions and climates.
Implementation Method 1
resilient suspension elements and fixation systems to absorb bending moments
Implementation Method 2
the temperature difference ΔT between the glass sheets causes the VIG unit to deflect (also known as thermal bending, thermal deflection or thermal distortion), as the hotter glass sheet of the VIG unit will expand compared to the colder of the glass sheets
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a vacuum insulated glass (VIG) unit frame assembly (10), wherein said vacuum insulated glass unit frame assembly (1) comprises: a frame (20) comprising elongated frame profile arrangements (20a-20d, 70) which frames a vacuum insulated glass unit (1) in a frame opening (21), wherein said vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises at least two glass sheets (2a, 2b) separated by a gap (11) between said glass sheets (2a, 2b), wherein a plurality of support structures (12) are distributed in said gap (11), and wherein said gap (11) is sealed by means of a sealing system (1b, 1c) which seals an evacuation hole (1a) arranged in a first (2a) of said glass sheets and extending to the gap (11). A lamination glass sheet (14) is attached to an outer major surface (4a) of said first glass sheet (2a) by means of a lamination layer (16), and wherein said sealing system (1c) extends into a hole (14a) in the lamination glass sheet (14), and the edge (8a-8e) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) proximate the hole (14a) in the lamination glass sheet (14), said sealing system (1c) and said hole in the lamination glass sheet (14) into which the sealing system (1c) extends are covered by the frame (20). The disclosure additionally relates to a retrofitting frame system (100) and a laminated vacuum insulated glass unit (1).