Pane Module Border Element for Window Glazing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional window glazing methods require numerous parts and can cause destructive strains on panes, leading to breakage and sealing failures, while gluing technologies face challenges with adhesion failure, environmental sensitivity, and lack of standardized design criteria, limiting their widespread adoption.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a border element that provides continuous support to the pane by attaching it to the window frame using screws or moulding, eliminating the need for glazing clips and adhesive, and allowing for improved load distribution and insulation properties without the use of glue.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional glazing profiles with screws and clips are used to secure the pane, then the pane can be firmly attached to the frame, but the discontinuous support causes destructive strains on the pane leading to breakage and sealing failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidpane durability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the border element with the pane assembly to create an integrated unit. The border element is attached to the pane edges and extends to form a continuous support structure that integrates with the frame, eliminating the need for separate clips and screws that cause discontinuous support and stress concentration points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The border element is pre-attached to the pane edges before installation into the frame. This preliminary attachment creates a continuous support system that distributes loads evenly across the entire pane perimeter, preventing the destructive strains that occur with post-installation mechanical fastening methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If glazing clips and multiple parts are used for conventional glazing, then the pane can be secured to the frame, but the large number of different parts increases device complexity and potential failure points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepane attachmentVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines multiple separate components (border element, clips, screws, sealings) into a single integrated border element structure. This border element is attached to the pane edges and extends to form a continuous support that integrates with the frame, reducing the assembly to essentially one main component instead of multiple separate parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The border element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, creates sealing, enables frame attachment, and distributes loads. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity.

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

3Reliability

If adhesive is used to attach the pane to the frame, then continuous support is achieved, but the glued connection is sensitive to environment and preparation conditions requiring special training and control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous supportVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of adhesives with a mechanical attachment system. The border element is mechanically attached to the pane edges and frame, providing continuous support through physical connection rather than chemical adhesion, thereby eliminating sensitivity to environmental conditions and surface preparation requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The border element structure is designed to self-align and self-support during installation. The continuous support is achieved through the inherent geometry and attachment mechanism of the border element itself, without requiring external control systems, climate control, or specially trained personnel to ensure proper adhesive application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2188478B1A method for making a pane module and a window comprising such a pane module
Publication Date: 2016.07.27 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP2188478B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2188478B1 patent drawingFigure 4a~5
  • EP2188478B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The pane module comprises a pane element composed by glass sheets (31, 35) and provided with a border element (37, 38) by moulding. The border element is adhered to the pane element during the moulding process and at least partially encases the border of at least one sheet element.