Vacuum Insulated Glass Frame Assembly for Edge Thermal Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum insulated glass units (VIG) experience thermal deflection due to temperature differences between glass sheets, leading to stress and potential damage, especially when constrained by traditional frame assemblies, which can reduce vacuum integrity and insulation effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with a fixation system that allows edges of the VIG unit to thermally deflect perpendicular to the frame plane, with discrete fixation points to manage deflection magnitude and reduce stress, using clamping devices and gaskets to secure the VIG unit while accommodating thermal expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the VIG unit is constrained by traditional frame assemblies, then the VIG unit is securely held in place, but thermal deflection causes stress and potential damage to the VIG unit
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is divided into multiple independent fixation points rather than continuous constraint. The fixation system includes discrete fixation elements (screws, clips, or adhesives) positioned at specific locations along the frame, allowing each point to independently accommodate thermal deflection while maintaining overall structural integrity and vacuum seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system is designed with adjustable parameters including flexible fixation elements that can move or deform within a range, allowing the system to adapt to thermal deflection. The fixation points are positioned and dimensioned to permit controlled movement while maintaining sealing, changing the rigid constraint parameter to a flexible one.
2Strength
If the VIG unit is allowed to thermally deflect freely, then stress is reduced, but the VIG unit may become loose or misaligned in the frame
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the frame assembly have different fixation characteristics. Some areas have rigid fixation points for stability, while others have flexible or movable fixation elements that accommodate thermal deflection. The fixation system creates zones of different constraint levels to balance stability and stress reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system transitions from a static rigid constraint to a dynamic system that can adapt its constraint level. The fixation elements are designed to move, deform, or adjust their position in response to thermal deflection, maintaining optimal contact and sealing while reducing stress on the VIG unit.
3Reliability
If discrete fixation points are used, then thermal deflection is accommodated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation elements are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support, maintaining vacuum seal, accommodating thermal deflection, and ensuring proper alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system despite the distributed fixation points.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation elements use simple, inexpensive components such as standard screws, clips, or adhesive points that can be easily replaced if needed. These discrete fixation points are designed as simple, standardized elements rather than complex custom components, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost.
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 solution reduces stress on the VIG unit, enhances its lifetime, maintains vacuum integrity, and allows use in varying climatic conditions by managing thermal deflection effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the temperature difference ΔT between the glass sheets causes the VIG unit to deflect (also known as thermal bending, thermal deflection or thermal distortion), as the hotter glass sheet of the VIG unit will expand compared to the colder of the glass sheets
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2a~3
Figure 4~4a
AI summary
Herein is disclosed a vacuum insulated glass (VIG) unit frame assembly (10) comprising: a rectangular vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprising two glass sheets (2a, 2b) separated by a sealed gap (11) comprising a plurality of support structures (12), and a frame arrangement (20) comprising a fixation system (6, 40) fixating the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) at the frame arrangement (20), wherein said fixation system (6, 40) is arranged so as to allow edges (8a-8d) of said vacuum insulated glass unit (1)to thermally deflect (DIS1, DIS2) in a deflection direction (D1, D2) perpendicular to a frame opening plane (P2) due to a temperature difference (∆T=T1−T2) between the two glass sheets (2a, 2b), wherein said fixation system (6, 40) is configured so as to allow the magnitude of said thermal deflection (DIS1, DIS2) is configured to vary along the edge (8a-8d) between the corners (9) where the respective edge (8a-8d) terminates.