Multi-Functional Thermal Break for Window Frames
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction products, such as windows and doors, often lack substantial thermal insulation, structural support, and are complex and costly to manufacture, particularly when they include thermal barriers with moveable parts.
Innovation Solution
A construction product featuring a frame with a thermal break made of a rigid insulating material, such as polymer, that connects and supports interior and exterior portions, providing both thermal insulation and structural support while simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a thermal barrier element is added to block thermal energy passage, then thermal insulation is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the thermal barrier function with the structural support function into a single integrated thermal break element. This thermal break is positioned within the frame assembly and simultaneously provides thermal insulation to reduce energy loss and structural support to hold the sash in the open position, thereby eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal break element is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a thermal barrier to reduce heat transfer between interior and exterior portions, provides structural support for the sash mechanism, and serves as a mounting structure for hardware components. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts needed in the system.
2Loss of energy
If a thermal barrier element is added to block thermal energy passage, then thermal insulation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal break is integrated into the frame assembly during manufacturing, combining multiple functions into a single component that is produced and installed as one unit. This integration reduces the number of separate parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs despite the added thermal insulation functionality.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for thermal barrier and structural support, then functional requirements are met, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the thermal barrier component and structural support component into a single integrated thermal break element within the frame assembly. This unified component maintains all necessary functional properties—thermal insulation and structural strength—while reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the overall device architecture.
4Loss of energy
If a rigid insulating material is used for thermal break, then thermal insulation is improved, but structural support capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal break is constructed from rigid insulating material that provides thermal insulation while maintaining sufficient structural strength through its geometry and integration with the aluminum frame portions. The rigid insulating material forms a continuous barrier that reduces thermal conduction while its structural configuration enables it to support the sash and operate as a mechanical element within the window assembly.
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 multi-functional thermal break effectively limits thermal conduction and provides structural support, enhancing the product's insulating and aesthetic properties while reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
The thermal break may be made of a rigid insulating material that connects and supports the interior portion and the exterior portion
Data Source
AI summary
A construction product such as a window or door includes a multi-functional thermal break. The thermal break serves to contact and support elements of the frame of the construction product. The thermal break also provides one or more additional structural functions for the construction product.