Integrated Window Sash Lattice Frame Retainer Clip Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window sash manufacturing methods require multiple steps and components, such as spacer frames, to create an insulating viewing area, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An integrated window sash design that eliminates the need for spacer frames by using a sash frame with muntin bars and a retainer clip system to maintain glass sheets in a spaced relationship, creating a sealed compartment without external spacers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spacer frames are used to maintain glass sheets in spaced relationship, then the sealed compartment is formed reliably, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spacer frame function with the muntin bars by integrating retaining clips directly onto the muntin bars. This merging eliminates the need for separate spacer frames while maintaining the sealed compartment formation between glass sheets, thereby reducing device complexity without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The muntin bars are given multiple functions: they serve as both the structural lattice elements and the retaining structures for the glass sheets through integrated clips. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated spacer frames, reducing the number of components while maintaining reliable sealed compartment formation
2Reliability
If multiple components (spacer frames, retainer clips) are used, then the glass sheets are securely retained, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clips are integrated directly onto the muntin bars, combining two previously separate components into one unified structure. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of parts to produce and assemble, while maintaining secure retention of glass sheets through the clip's gripping mechanism
3Device complexity
If spacer frames are eliminated, then manufacturing costs and complexity are reduced, but the ability to maintain sealed compartment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The muntin bars with integrated retaining clips perform the dual function of structural support and glass sheet retention. The clips are designed with compression springs that provide reliable retention force to maintain the sealed compartment between glass sheets, eliminating the need for separate spacer frames while ensuring compartment integrity
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 design simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and enhances thermal performance by eliminating the need for additional components while maintaining a sealed gas compartment for improved insulation.
Implementation Method 1
a retainer clip having a first end portion connected to an end portion of the lattice and the opposite second end portion having a compressible base, the compressible base in surface contact with the second major surface of the first sheet and the first major surface of the second sheet to retain the lattice in position between the sheets
Data Source
AI summary
An insulating unit includes a first and a second sheet, each of the sheets having a first major surface and an opposite second major surface; an arrangement to position the first and second sheets in spaced relation to one another to provide a compartment between the sheets, the second major surface of the first sheet and the first major surface of the second sheet facing the compartment; a lattice made of muntin bars in the compartment, the lattice having end portions adjacent to and spaced from the arrangement; and a retainer clip having a first end portion connected to an end portion of the lattice and the opposite second end portion having a compressible base, the compressible base in surface contact with the second major surface of the first sheet and the first major surface of the second sheet to retain the lattice in position between the sheets.