Warm Edge Spacer Kit With Embedded Metallic Inserts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current warm edge spacer elements for insulating glasses are not adaptable to curtain kits and fail to withstand the stresses generated by them during assembly and operation, while also having high thermal transmittance due to their metallic composition, which is a significant issue in reducing heat loss through windows and doors.
Innovation Solution
A warm edge curtain kit for insulating glasses using plastic spacer elements with embedded metallic inserts that provide strength and reduce thermal transmittance, eliminating the need for a metallic thermal bridge and enhancing the structural integrity to support curtain systems without compromising thermal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thick metallic spacer elements are used to support curtain kit stresses, then structural strength is improved, but thermal transmittance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer element is constructed as a composite structure combining plastic material (for thermal insulation) with embedded metallic inserts (for structural strength and gas impermeability). This composite approach allows the spacer to simultaneously support curtain kit stresses while maintaining low thermal transmittance, as the plastic matrix provides thermal break whereas the thin metallic inserts provide mechanical reinforcement without forming continuous thermal bridges.
2Loss of energy
If thin metallic layers are used in warm edge spacers, then thermal transmittance is reduced, but ability to withstand curtain kit stresses is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer combines plastic material with embedded metallic inserts where the plastic provides thermal insulation and the thin metallic layers (0.03-0.10mm) provide both gas impermeability and structural reinforcement. This composite structure enables the spacer to withstand curtain kit stresses during assembly and operation while maintaining the low thermal transmittance characteristic of warm edge spacers.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic component is segmented into discrete inserted elements rather than continuous thick metal, allowing localized strength where needed while maintaining thermal break across the spacer. The metallic inserts are positioned strategically within the plastic matrix to provide structural support at critical stress points without creating continuous thermal pathways.
3Loss of energy
If plastic material is used for spacer elements, then thermal transmittance is reduced, but gas permeability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer element uses a composite construction where plastic material provides thermal insulation and embedded metallic inserts (made from impermeable metal such as stainless steel or aluminum) provide gas impermeability. The metallic layers act as barriers to gas permeation through the plastic matrix, ensuring that the insulating gas layer remains sealed while the plastic provides the thermal break.
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 effectively reduces thermal transmittance and supports curtain systems by distributing stresses without forming a thermal bridge, thus improving the energy efficiency and structural stability of insulating glasses.
Implementation Method 1
plastic spacer elements with embedded metallic inserts that provide strength and reduce thermal transmittance, eliminating the need for a metallic thermal bridge
Implementation Method 2
The spacing frame is shaped so that moisture-absorbing salts can be housed inside it, preventing the appearance of condensation in the volume comprised between the panes of glass
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A warm edge curtain kit for insulating glasses, comprising a plurality of spacer elements (3a,3b,3c) connected together so as to define a closed structure integrated in an insulating glass (A), a curtain group (5), comprising a box (6) and a curtain body (7), housed inside said closed structure defined by said spacer elements (3a,3b,3c), each of said spacer elements (3a,3b,3c) being made from plastic material and comprising at least one respective metallic insert (14) at least partially embedded inside it, at least one of said spacer elements (3c) comprising connection means (17) to said box (6) of said curtain (5).