Molded Glazing Border with Pre-stressed Cable

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional window glazing methods require numerous parts and can lead to structural issues and adhesion failures, necessitating specialized training and equipment, while lacking standardized design criteria for secure and durable glazing solutions.

Innovation Solution

A pane module comprising a pane element and a border element made by moulding, which provides continuous support and secure attachment without glue, allowing for easier replacement and integration of functional features, and can be attached directly to a window frame, reducing the need for glazing clips and specialized training.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional glazing profiles with screws and clips are used, then the pane is securely attached to the frame, but the number of parts increases and the frame becomes heavier

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of partsVSAvoidattachment security

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The border element merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides structural support for the pane, creates the seal between glass sheets, and attaches to the frame. This eliminates the need for separate glazing clips, spacers, and sealing elements, reducing part count while maintaining attachment security through the continuous molded structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The border element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element, a sealing element, a spacing element, and an attachment component. This multi-functionality allows a single element to replace the conventional assembly of multiple specialized parts, simplifying the overall glazing system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If glazing clips and spacers are used, then the pane is supported and sealed, but discontinuous support causes destructive strains on the pane

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepane support continuityVSAvoidpane strain resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The border element provides continuous support along the entire edge of the pane through its molded structure, eliminating the discontinuous point-contact support provided by conventional clips. This continuous contact distributes loads evenly along the pane edge, preventing localized destructive strains while maintaining reliable support and sealing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Ease of manufacture

If glue is used for attachment, then continuous support is provided and frame profiles can be slimmer, but the quality of connection is sensitive to environment and requires specialized training

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveglazing process simplicityVSAvoidadhesion consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the chemical adhesion system (glue) with a mechanical interlocking system. The border element is molded to mechanically interlock with the frame through integrated attachment features, providing consistent connection quality that is not sensitive to environmental conditions or operator skill, while still enabling continuous support and allowing for slimmer frame profiles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Ease of operation

If conventional glazing methods are used, then the pane is attached to the frame, but the process requires specialized training and investment in climate control and quality control systems

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveglazing installation easeVSAvoidprocess equipment requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The border element is designed to be self-installing through its integrated attachment features that mechanically interlock with the frame. The molded structure includes built-in alignment and securing mechanisms that guide proper installation without requiring specialized tools, climate control equipment, or quality control systems, making the process accessible to general workers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 offers a secure, durable, and adaptable glazing system that simplifies window manufacturing, allows for easy pane replacement, and enhances load distribution and insulation properties, while reducing the complexity and cost associated with conventional glazing methods.

Implementation Method 1

The pre-stressed member provides a pre-stressing of the border element, which may counteract harmful stresses on the pane caused by wind suction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPre-stressing:

Data Source

PatentEP3103954B1Double glazing unit comprising a prestressed cable in its moulded border element

Publication Date: 2018.04.11 VKR HOLDING AS

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AI summary

The pane module is adapted to be installed in a window frame and comprises a pane element and a border element (91). The pane element includes at least two sheet elements (92, 94), such as sheets of glass, separated by one or more spacer members (93). The border element (91) is made by moulding and surrounds the pane element, at least partially encasing the edge of at least one sheet element. In order to provide the pane module with an increased resistance to stresses on the pane caused by wind suction, the pane module comprises a pre-stressed member.