Closed Frame Spacer Ramp Interface Smoothing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The visible interface between the start and end of a thermoplastic spacer in insulating glass panes is aesthetically displeasing and difficult to conceal after assembly, as existing methods either leave visible depressions or markings that cannot be treated post-assembly.
Innovation Solution
Applying pressure between a first jaw and a second jaw on the side faces of the spacer, using non-adherent materials and controlled pressure to smooth out the transition between the start and end of the spacer before assembly, ensuring the interface is not discernible in the finished pane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the start and end of the strand are abutted together via an inclined face (ramp) to form a closed frame-shaped spacer, then the spacer hermetically seals the interior space of the insulating glass pane, but a visible interface line appears on the side face delimiting the interior space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a coating layer to the ramped interface between the start and end of the strand before assembly. This preliminary cosmetic treatment conceals the visible interface line that would otherwise be apparent on the side face delimiting the interior space, while the underlying ramped structure maintains the hermetic sealing function.
2Shape
If mechanical vibrations are applied to the side face of the pasty strand to conceal the interface, then the visible line can be reduced, but the process becomes more complex and requires additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical vibration system with a coating application system. Instead of using vibrating bodies to mechanically smooth the interface, a coating layer is applied to the ramped surface, which is a simpler and more straightforward process that achieves the same aesthetic goal without the complexity of vibration generation and control equipment.
3Reliability
If the strand is compressed to obtain the desired nominal thickness and ensure firm connection, then the spacer seals against water vapour diffusion, but the interface between start and end is compressed together and bonded tightly
Solution Approach 1:
The coating layer is applied to the ramped interface before compression and assembly. This preliminary application ensures that when the strand is compressed to achieve the desired nominal thickness and water vapour sealing, the coating is already in place to conceal the interface, rather than trying to conceal it after compression has already occurred.
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 effectively conceals the interface between the start and end of the spacer, improving the aesthetic appearance of insulating glass panes by eliminating visible markings or depressions, while maintaining production efficiency by integrating the process into the assembly line before final assembly.
Implementation Method 1
Upon cooling, the initially pasty strand consolidates and forms the intended spacer.
Implementation Method 2
at least the surface of the first jaw exerting pressure on the first side face of the strand which delimits the interior space of the insulating glass pane after assembly thereof has a property enabling the material of the strand which comes into contact with the surface of the first jaw to be removed therefrom by lifting the first jaw from the strand
Data Source
AI summary
A method for forming a closed frame-shaped spacer for an insulating glass pane by applying a paste-like and subsequently hardening strand has at a beginning of the strand a ramp in which the thickness of the strand increases from zero to a nominal thickness. An end of the strand's thickness is complementary to the rising ramp on the same path, overlapping the ramp, decreasing from the target thickness to zero, the surface of the ramp forming an interface between the beginning and the end of the strand. The beginning and end of the strand are pressurized on either side by placing it between a first jaw and a second jaw. The exerting surface of the first jaw has a property enabling the material of the strand which comes into contact with the surface of the first jaw to be removed therefrom by lifting the first jaw from the strand.