Historically accurate simulated divided light glass unit and methods of making the same
US11964897B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2021 |
| Grant date | Apr 23, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB44F1/063
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The insulated glass unit (IGU) that replicates a historic glass window includes a single simulated divided light glass pane, a low-e glass layer, and spacer grills disposed therebetween. True divided light glass window panes are scanned to obtain surface characteristic data, subsequently used to design a pane that includes slumped areas corresponding to the unique topological characteristics of antique glass, separated by flat areas. The flat surfaces provide for sealing the IGU with the spacer grills, while the optics of the original historic glass are preserved via the slumped areas. A mold of the designed pane is then 3D printed in furan resin sand, and a glass layer is melted over the mold to create a one-piece pane that includes the antique features. Accurate replication of these windows enables historic building renovation with modern insulated windows with less sealing while retaining the original appearance, providing improvements in longevity and efficiency.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.