Multi-layer glass stack with evacuated space and transparent plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing glass panel units face challenges in achieving both improved thermal insulation and mechanical strength, with existing solutions often compromising on one aspect due to limitations in spacer materials and bonding pressures.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing a multi-layer stack involving a glass panel unit with an evacuated space and spacers, where a transparent plate is bonded using an intermediate film, applying pressure less than the compressive strength of the spacers to maintain structural integrity and thermal insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a glass panel unit with evacuated space is used to improve thermal insulation, then thermal insulation properties are improved, but mechanical strength is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining glass panels with a transparent plate (polycarbonate or acrylic) bonded via intermediate film. This composite structure provides both thermal insulation from the evacuated space and enhanced mechanical strength from the transparent plate layer, resolving the contradiction between insulation and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent plate is applied specifically to the outer surface where mechanical strength is most needed, while maintaining the evacuated space for thermal insulation. This localized application of the transparent plate provides strength enhancement without compromising the insulation performance of the evacuated space.
2Strength
If bonding pressure is applied to attach transparent plate to glass panel, then bonding strength is improved, but spacer collapse is caused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully controls the bonding pressure parameter to be within a specific range that is sufficient to achieve strong bonding between the transparent plate and glass panel, but not so high as to collapse the spacers. This optimized pressure parameter resolves the contradiction between bonding strength and spacer stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacers are positioned in advance within the evacuated space to provide structural support and cushioning during the bonding process. This beforehand placement prevents spacer collapse under bonding pressure while allowing adequate bonding strength to be achieved.
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 method results in a multi-layer stack with enhanced mechanical strength and thermal insulation properties, reducing the risk of spacer collapse and maintaining optimal performance under bonding pressures.
Implementation Method 1
bonding a transparent plate to an outer surface of at least one of a first glass panel or a second glass panel of a glass panel unit with an intermediate film interposed between the outer surface and the transparent plate
Implementation Method 2
a glass panel unit with an evacuated space between two glass panels facing each other
Implementation Method 3
the thermal insulation properties are improved by providing an evacuated space between two glass panels facing each other
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manufacturing a multi-layer stack includes bonding a transparent plate to an outer surface of at least one of a first glass panel or a second glass panel of a glass panel unit with an intermediate film interposed therebetween. The glass panel unit includes: the first glass panel; the second glass panel; and an evacuated space provided between the first glass panel and the second glass panel. A plurality of spacers are provided in the evacuated space between the first glass panel and the second glass panel. A pressure applied for bonding the glass panel unit and the transparent plate together is less than a compressive strength of the plurality of spacers.