Spacer System for VIG Window Installation in Existing Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) units are thinner than traditional insulating glass (IG) units, requiring redesign of window frames for installation, which is costly and time-consuming, hindering the adoption of VIG units in existing buildings and by smaller manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A peripheral spacer system is provided around the VIG unit to fit within window frames designed for thicker IG units, including hollow areas filled with air or insulating material, allowing for installation without significant frame modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VIG units are used in window frames designed for thicker IG units, then thermal performance and strength are improved, but the units cannot be installed without redesigning the window frames
Solution Approach 1:
A spacer system is introduced as an intermediary component between the VIG unit and the window frame. The spacer includes a first portion that contacts the VIG unit and a second portion that contacts the window frame, bridging the thickness gap and enabling installation without frame modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer system extends in the thickness dimension (z-direction) to compensate for the difference between the thinner VIG unit and the frame designed for thicker IG units. This dimensional extension allows the VIG unit to occupy the correct spatial position within the frame.
2Adaptability or versatility
If window frames are redesigned to accommodate VIG units, then installation compatibility is improved, but costs and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the window assembly into distinct functional components: the VIG unit, the spacer system, and the existing window frame. This segmentation allows the frame to remain unchanged while the spacer adapts to accommodate the VIG unit, avoiding costly frame redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer system serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, fills the thickness gap, enables installation compatibility, and maintains the structural integrity of the window assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized frame modifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If window frames are redesigned to accommodate VIG units, then installation compatibility is improved, but adoption time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer system is pre-configured with the appropriate thickness to match specific VIG unit dimensions and frame requirements. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation without on-site frame modifications, significantly reducing adoption time.
4Reliability
If the spacer system includes hollow areas filled with insulating material, then thermal performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer system combines solid structural material with hollow areas filled with insulating material, creating a composite structure. This composite design provides both mechanical support and enhanced thermal insulation, improving overall thermal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer includes hollow areas that can be filled with insulating material, creating a porous or cavitated structure. This porous design increases thermal resistance by trapping air or other insulating materials within the spacer walls, enhancing the thermal performance of the overall window assembly.
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
Enables the use of VIG units in frames intended for thicker IG units, reducing adoption time and costs, maintaining aesthetics, and improving thermal performance and strength.
Implementation Method 1
The spacer structure may include at least one hollow area surrounded by a solid portion when viewed cross sectionally
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A vacuum insulated glass (VIG) window unit installation configuration and method for installing a VIG window unit in a window frame that was designed to accommodate at least a thicker IG (insulating glass/integrated glass) window unit(s). The VIG window unit may be supported on a first side by a first stop portion of the frame and on a second side by a second stop portion of the frame. A spacer structure is provided along at least one side of the VIG window unit between the VIG window unit and at least one of the first and second stop portions, the spacer structure including at least one hollow area surrounded by a solid portion when viewed cross sectionally.