Window Pane with Masked Projection for Integrated Solar and Adhesion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern windows require increased functionalities and slimmer designs, leading to complex frame structures and higher manufacturing costs, necessitating a simplification of the frame structure without compromising comprehensiveness.

Innovation Solution

The window design incorporates a pane with projecting elements and functional masks on the pane's surface, transferring frame functions to the pane while maintaining light transmission and view, using masks for various purposes such as solar protection, adhesion promotion, and integration of features like solar panels or sensors, which can be made from various materials and applied using techniques like serigraphic printing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If frame structures are optimized with multiple components and special designs to provide increased functionalities, then window functionality is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow functionalityVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple frame functions (adhesion, solar protection, electrical connections, mechanical support) directly into the pane structure. The pane is designed with an integrated frame structure where the pane itself serves as both the transparent element and the functional frame, eliminating the need for separate frame components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pane is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides transparency for light transmission, structural support for the window assembly, adhesion bonding to seals and frame, solar radiation protection through masks, and electrical connection pathways. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for multiple specialized components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If frame structures are optimized with multiple components to provide increased functionalities, then window functionality is improved, but manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple frame functions (adhesion, solar protection, electrical connections, mechanical support) directly into the pane structure. The pane is designed with an integrated frame structure where the pane itself serves as both the transparent element and the functional frame, eliminating the need for separate frame components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pane is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides transparency for light transmission, structural support for the window assembly, adhesion bonding to seals and frame, solar radiation protection through masks, and electrical connection pathways. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for multiple specialized components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If masks are applied on visible parts of the pane, then functional requirements are met, but light transmission and view are obstructed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional requirementsVSAvoidlight transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies masks selectively only on specific local areas of the pane where functionality is required (such as border regions for adhesion promotion or specific zones for solar protection), while leaving the central visible areas transparent. This localized application ensures functional requirements are met without compromising overall light transmission and view quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

This approach simplifies the frame structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances the window's functionality by integrating features like solar protection and adhesion promotion without obstructing light or view, while allowing for aesthetic and technical enhancements.

Implementation Method 1

an adhesion promoter is applied to the border of the pane, which is encased in the frame by moulding. The adhesion promoter may be a mask having a particularly good frictional resistance or a material forming a chemical connection to the frame material.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP2188479B1Window with a masked pane
Publication Date: 2016.10.12 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP2188479B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2188479B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2188479B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

In the window, a part of the pane projects over the frame, making it invisible from the interior in the mounted state, and at least one sheet element is provided with a functional mask on a surface thereof, the mask being provided on the invisible part(s) of the pane. The mask may be used for separating parts of the pane serving different functional purposes. For instance, a masking strip (32) separates the upper part (31) from the lower part (33). The upper part may serve the common purpose of windows to transmit light to the interior of the building, whereas the lower part may be fitted with a photo-voltaic element supplying electricity to other functional elements.