Sliding Frame Thermal Break via Segmented Insulating Web
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding frame devices have reduced heat-insulating properties due to a short connection area between metal frame profiles, leading to undesirable thermal energy transfer, especially when there is a large temperature difference, as the fixed wing and retaining profile directly contact the inner frame profile, compromising thermal insulation.
Innovation Solution
The insulating strip is extended to cover parts of the frame profiles, allowing the retaining profile to bear on the insulating area instead of the frame profile, increasing the distance between profiles and using a heat-insulating material to reduce heat conduction and radiation, with additional fastening areas for force transmission and a cover to enhance thermal insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the connection area between metal frame profiles is kept short to ensure adequate support function of the holding profile, then the supporting function is improved, but the heat insulating function deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection area is segmented into a first connection area on the inner frame profile and a second connection area on the outer frame profile, with the holding profile contacting only the first connection area. This segmentation allows the second connection area to extend further outward, increasing the distance between frame profiles and improving thermal insulation while maintaining structural support through the distributed connection areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding profile acts as an intermediary element that transfers support forces from the glazing bead through the insulating bar to the frame profiles. By contacting the holding profile at the first connection area rather than directly bridging to the second connection area, the design reduces direct thermal contact between frame profiles while maintaining mechanical support functionality.
2Loss of energy
If the distance between frame profiles is increased to improve thermal insulation, then the heat insulating function is improved, but the supporting function deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection area is divided into two separate zones: a first connection area for structural support and a second connection area for extended thermal break. This allows the outer frame profile to be positioned further outward for better insulation while the inner connection area maintains adequate support. The insulating bar spans this segmented connection area, providing both mechanical continuity and thermal isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution extends the connection area in the horizontal dimension (outward from the frame) rather than increasing the vertical distance between frame profiles. The second connection area projects outward from the first connection area, creating a stepped configuration that increases thermal path length without compromising the vertical support structure.
3Strength
If the holding profile rests directly on the inner frame profile to ensure support, then the supporting function is improved, but the heat conduction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding profile serves as an intermediary that contacts the insulating bar at the first connection area rather than directly bridging the inner and outer frame profiles. This intermediary positioning, combined with the insulating bar material, breaks the direct thermal path between frame profiles while maintaining the force transmission path for support. The glazing bead forces are transmitted through the holding profile to the insulating bar and distributed to the frame profiles without creating a direct thermal bridge.
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 solution significantly improves thermal insulation by reducing heat transfer from 5.2 W/(m2K) to 3.4 W/(m2K), allowing for better energy efficiency and reduced thermal bridging.
Implementation Method 1
the heat insulating and thermally insulating function of the insulating bars is reduced
Implementation Method 2
thermal energy can be released in an undesirable manner in such a conventional sliding frame device, for example from the inner frame profile to a colder outer frame profile, which entails a high energy consumption
Implementation Method 3
through the thermal radiation favored by the short distance between the frame profiles
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The device has a main frame section (101) and an auxiliary frame section (102) which are connected by an insulating web (103). A retaining portion (150) is provided for supporting the wing (110) of door or window. The insulating web is extended in the connecting direction of insulating region (105). The insulating region is provided partially covering the main frame section so that the retaining portion is applied partially on the insulating region of the insulating web.