Window Frame Assembly With Intermediary Seals for Fluid Ingress
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window frame connection systems fail to provide a reliable connection between frame members, allowing fluid communication and poor insulation, leading to excessive heating or cooling needs and debris/l liquid ingress.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly with co-operatively configured frame members featuring seal-receiving channels and seals to create a sealing interface that resists fluid ingress and enhances insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing connection systems (adhesive or double-sided tape) are used to connect frame members, then installation is simple, but the connection is unreliable and allows fluid communication between frame members
Solution Approach 1:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary component between the first and second frame members. The seal member includes a body portion that fits into a channel formed by the frame members and a protruding portion that extends into the space between the frame members, physically blocking fluid communication pathways and providing a reliable seal.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing connection systems are used between frame members, then manufacturing is simple, but insulation performance is poor allowing excessive heat transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member acts as a thermal break intermediary between adjacent frame members. The seal member body portion fits into the channel and the protruding portion extends into the inter-frame space, creating a physical barrier that disrupts thermal bridges and reduces heat transfer between the frame members.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing connection systems are used between frame members, then design flexibility is maintained, but the system allows debris and liquid ingress into the room
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member serves as a protective intermediary that blocks debris and liquid pathways. The protruding portion extends into the space between frame members to prevent debris accumulation, while the body portion within the channel blocks liquid ingress, all while maintaining the modular frame connection design.
4Area of stationary object
If larger window frames are manufactured, then more light and line of sight are provided, but design and cost limitations are exceeded with existing connection systems
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is designed as a universal component that can be applied to various frame sizes and configurations. The channel and seal member combination provides a scalable solution that maintains connection reliability and sealing performance across different window frame dimensions without requiring complex custom connection systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A window assembly for mitigating fluid ingress between adjacent frame members is disclosed. The assembly has a first frame member of a first frame, and a second frame member of a second frame. The first frame member includes a seal-receiving channel first counterpart, and the second frame member includes a seal-receiving channel second counterpart. The first and second frame members are co-operatively configured such that, while the first counterpart of the seal-receiving channel is disposed opposite to the second counterpart of the seal-receiving channel, the seal-receiving channel is defined. The sealing interface is defined while the seal is disposed in the seal-receiving channel, and while the first and second frame members are disposed in a sealing interface-defining proximity. While the sealing interface is defined between the first and second frame members, the sealing interface resists fluid communication or fluid ingress between the first and second frame members.