Window assembly and a method regarding the same
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of installing window assemblies with electrochromic materials and electrical components is hindered by the need for precise integration and the risk of parts becoming separated during shipping and installation.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled window assembly design that includes an insulated glass unit, moveable mounting brackets, and electrical components secured with fasteners like bolts, screws, cam levers, or bayonet connectors, allowing for packaging and shipping as a single unit, with moveable coupling for easy installation and aesthetic covers to conceal fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If window assemblies are pre-assembled with electrical components, then installation complexity is reduced and parts loss is minimized, but manufacturing and shipping complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling the mounting brackets and electrical components onto the insulated glass unit before shipping. This allows the window assembly to arrive at the installation site as a partially completed unit, reducing on-site installation complexity while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized pre-assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the window assembly into distinct modules: the insulated glass unit with pre-attached mounting brackets, and separate electrical components that can be coupled during installation. This segmentation allows for manageable pre-assembly of structural elements while deferring integration of electrical components until installation, balancing manufacturing and installation complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple components are shipped separately, then manufacturing and packaging is simpler, but parts can become separated or lost during shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mounting brackets with the insulated glass unit through pre-attachment, creating an integrated assembly that cannot become separated during shipping. This merging ensures reliable parts retention while managing assembly integration complexity through the use of standardized mounting mechanisms that simplify subsequent electrical component attachment.
3Ease of operation
If fasteners are exposed for easy adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces decorative covers as intermediary elements that conceal exposed fasteners and mounting hardware from view while allowing the mounting brackets and electrical components to remain accessible for adjustment. These covers serve as mediators between the functional requirement for easy adjustment and the aesthetic requirement for a clean appearance.
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
This design reduces the likelihood of parts being lost or separated during shipping and installation, simplifies the installation process, and maintains a clean, professional appearance by allowing for adjustment and secure fastening of components post-installation.
Implementation Method 1
Window assemblies can include electrochromic materials that can change their optical properties in response to the application of an electrical potential. Such a change can make glazings within the assemblies more or less transparent or more or less reflective.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A window assembly can include an insulated glass unit, a mounting assembly moveably coupled to the insulated glass unit, and an electrical component secured to the mounting assembly. A method can include securing an electrical component to a mounting assembly, coupling the mounting assembly to an insulated glass unit, and installing the insulating glass unit in a frame. In an embodiment, after the window assembly is installed within the frame, the mounting assembly can be moved in a final position and securely fastened into position. In an embodiment, the pre-assembly can help to keep all components of a window assembly together during shipping and at the installation site to reduce the likelihood that components are separated or lost during shipping or at the installation site.