Replacement Window Stop for VIG Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The adoption of vacuum insulated glass (VIG) window units in existing buildings is hindered by the need for costly and time-consuming redesign of window structures due to their thinner profile compared to traditional insulated glass (IG) units, which requires significant modifications to the window sash and frame.
Innovation Solution
A re-profiled replacement window stop that compensates for the thickness difference between IG and VIG window units, allowing for easy integration into existing window sash designs with minimal modifications, and includes additional insulation for improved thermal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional insulated glass (IG) window units are used, then the window structure is stable and well-established, but the thermal insulation performance is insufficient compared to VIG units
Solution Approach 1:
The window unit is divided into separate functional components: the VIG panel for thermal insulation and the stop for structural support and positioning. This segmentation allows the VIG panel to be optimized for thermal performance while the stop handles structural requirements, resolving the contradiction between improved insulation and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the VIG panel and the window sash. It provides the necessary structural connection and positioning without requiring complex modifications to the window structure, enabling the transition from traditional IG to VIG while maintaining structural stability.
2Loss of energy
If VIG window units are installed in existing window sashes, then thermal insulation performance improves, but the thinner profile of VIG requires redesign of window structure
Solution Approach 1:
The stop is designed as a universal component that serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, positions the VIG panel, compensates for the thickness difference between IG and VIG units, and interfaces with existing window sashes. This multi-functionality enables easy installation in existing structures without requiring complete redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop's width parameter is specifically designed to compensate for the thickness difference between traditional IG units and thinner VIG units. By adjusting this dimensional parameter, the stop accommodates the profile difference and enables VIG installation in existing window sashes without structural redesign.
3Loss of energy
If VIG window units replace IG units, then energy efficiency increases, but installation time and costs increase due to structural redesign requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The stop is pre-configured with the appropriate width to compensate for thickness differences and pre-designed to interface with standard window sashes. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site structural redesign and customization, significantly reducing installation time and costs while maintaining high energy efficiency.
4Loss of energy
If VIG window units are used, then thermal insulation performance improves, but the thinner profile requires additional structural support and modification
Solution Approach 1:
The stop serves as a universal structural component that provides support, positioning, and thickness compensation in a single element. This eliminates the need for multiple separate structural modifications and simplifies the overall window structure while maintaining the high thermal insulation performance of VIG units.
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
Facilitates the adoption of high-efficiency VIG window units by reducing installation time and costs, enabling their use in current window designs with minimal changes, while maintaining aesthetics and allowing low-volume manufacturers to implement them with reduced tooling requirements.
Implementation Method 1
two spaced apart glass substrates that enclose an evacuated or low-pressure space/cavity therebetween
Implementation Method 2
Vacuum insulating glass (VIG) units are generally much more efficient insulators than typical multi pane non-vacuum insulated glass window units
Implementation Method 3
a chemical getter may be included within a recess that is disposed in an interior face of one of the glass substrates. The chemical getter may be used to absorb or bind with certain residual impurities that may remain after the cavity is evacuated and sealed
Implementation Method 4
The entire assembly including the glass substrates, the spacers/pillars and the seal material (e.g., glass frit in solution or paste), is then heated to a temperature of at least about 500°C, at which point the glass frit melts, wets the surfaces of the glass substrates
Implementation Method 5
the glass frit melts, wets the surfaces of the glass substrates, and ultimately forms a hermetic peripheral/edge seal
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for enabling a vacuum insulated glass (VIG) window to be substituted for and/or replace a non-vacuum insulated glass window in an existing window assembly frame structure is disclosed. A width of a VIG window is substantially less than that of existing non-vacuum insulated glass (IG) windows (e.g., a double, triple or quad pane windows). A replacement stop is provided that compensates for the difference between the larger width of a non- vacuum insulated glass window and a VIG window which has a smaller width, thereby enabling the VIG window to be easily and cost effectively installed in existing window configurations originally intended for non-vacuum insulated glass windows. The replacement stop may be used in the manufacture of VIG window units and/or to replace existing and/or already installed non-vacuum insulated glass windows.