Slim Window Frame Sealing via Compressed Gaskets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window and shutter systems for outdoor settings face challenges in minimizing frame thickness while maintaining effective sealing against noise and weathering agents, as stepped profiles are necessary for sealing, which increases the frame thickness and contradicts architectural needs.
Innovation Solution
A window/shutter system with a movable wing and fixed framework design featuring a hinging system and perimeter gaskets that allow for a slim profile while ensuring a tight seal, using polyurethane foam or similar materials for the gaskets to compress and seal effectively, and a metallic or wooden framework with thermal insulation for optimal sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stepped profiles are used to ensure sealing against noise and weathering agents, then sealing efficiency is improved, but frame thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional stepped profiles (one-dimensional thickness increase) to a multi-component sealing system where gaskets are positioned in grooves and compressed through angular wing movement. This distributes the sealing function across multiple dimensions: groove depth, gasket compression, and wing angle, rather than requiring increased frame thickness in a single dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible gaskets made of elastomeric or foam materials that can be compressed to create effective seals. These flexible sealing elements are positioned in grooves and compressed by the angular movement of the wing, allowing effective sealing without the need for thick stepped profiles. The flexibility of these materials enables them to deform and conform to create tight seals.
2Length of stationary object
If frame thickness is reduced to meet architectural needs, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but sealing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different properties to different parts of the frame system. The main frame structure maintains a thin profile for aesthetic purposes, while localized sealing grooves and channels are strategically positioned to provide effective sealing. The gaskets are placed in specific locations where they can be compressed by the wing's angular movement, allowing the overall frame to remain thin while maintaining sealing efficiency at critical locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the dynamic angular movement of the wing to activate the sealing mechanism. As the wing moves from parallel to angular position relative to the frame, this movement compresses the gaskets in the grooves, creating the seal. This dynamic compression during operation allows effective sealing without requiring permanently thick stepped profiles that would be needed in static sealing designs.
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 system achieves a significantly reduced wing thickness, meeting architectural requirements while maintaining high sealing efficiency against noise and weathering agents, ensuring reliability and safety in operation.
Implementation Method 1
two or more gaskets (70, 71) mounted on the movable wing (3) or on the fixed framework (2), at opposite faces intended to face each other when the movable wing (3) is in closed position
Data Source
AI summary
Window for outdoor settings, which comprises a movable wing provided with a first support frame hinged to a second support frame of a fixed framework by means of a hinging system, so that, when the movable wing is closed, the two frames define two opposite perimeter faces delimiting a slit. The window comprise a first perimeter gasket fixed to one of the two opposite perimeter faces, acting against the other perimeter face, and placed at an internal opening of the slit in order to conceal from view the hinging system of the window. The window further comprises a second perimeter gasket fixed to one of the two opposite perimeter faces, acting against the other perimeter face, and placed at an intermediate position between the internal opening and an external opening of the slit.