Window Sash Frame with Removable Inner Sub-Sash for Glass Panel Protection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Insulated glass panel units in window assemblies have exposed and unprotected outer edges during handling and shipping, requiring careful handling and protection, and lack a convenient method for removal or replacement in case of damage or moisture issues.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly design featuring a rectangular outer sash frame and inner sub-sash frame made of rigid plastics with inwardly projecting flanges that seal and protect the glass panels, allowing precise location and locking within the frame, and enabling easy removal of the glass panel unit for repair or replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outer edges of the glass panels are exposed and unprotected, then the insulated glass panel unit is simpler in structure, but the handling and shipping becomes difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into two functional parts: an outer frame providing structural support and an inner sub-sash frame providing edge protection. This segmentation allows the protection function to be added without fundamentally changing the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner sub-sash frame is nested within the outer frame, with the glass panel unit positioned between them. The inner frame's flanges overlap the glass panel edges, creating a protective layer without exposing the glass edges to external damage.
2Ease of manufacture
If the outer edges of the glass panels are exposed, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the glass panels require careful handling and protection during shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The inner sub-sash frame is pre-assembled with the glass panel unit before installation into the outer frame. This preliminary assembly protects the glass edges during manufacturing, handling, and shipping, eliminating the need for additional protective measures later.
3Ease of repair
If the glass panel unit is permanently fixed in the sash frame, then the window assembly is more stable, but the removal and replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The glazing members are designed with spring flange portions that provide dynamic retention. The springs maintain constant pressure against the glass panel edges, ensuring stable fixation during normal operation while allowing easy removal when needed for repair or replacement.
4Stability of the object's composition
If no spacers are used to prevent lateral movement, then the device complexity is reduced, but the glass panel unit shifts laterally within the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The inner sub-sash frame and outer frame are merged through interlocking flanges and grooves. The flanges of the inner frame engage with corresponding grooves in the outer frame, creating a unified structure that prevents lateral movement without requiring separate spacer components.
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 provides enhanced protection and convenience during handling and shipping, prevents moisture ingress, and allows for easy removal of the glass panel unit for maintenance, while eliminating lateral movement of the panel within the frame.
Implementation Method 1
The edge portions and spacer frame are bonded and sealed together by a bonding compound such as a butyl rubber compound or a similar bonding material surrounding the spacer frame
Implementation Method 2
the flange is bonded to the glass panel
Data Source
AI summary
A rectangular outer sash frame has extruded plastic frame members with inwardly projecting flange portions overlapping a peripheral edge portion of an outer glass panel of an insulated glass unit. A removable inner sub-sash frame interconnects with the outer sash frame and has extruded plastic frame members with inwardly projecting flange portions overlapping and bonded to a peripheral edge portion of at least one of the glass panels. Extruded plastic glazing members have flange portions overlapping a peripheral edge portion of the inner glass panel and include retaining flange portions projecting between the outer sash frame and the inner sub-sash frame. In another embodiment, the sub-sash frame has integrally extruded parallel spaced walls projecting inwardly between and bonded to the peripheral edge portions of both the inner and outer glass panels.