Localized heating via an infrared heat source array of edge seals for a vacuum insulating glass unit, and/or unitized oven with infrared heat source array for accomplishing the same
US8506738B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 2007 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B80/22
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to edge sealing techniques for vacuum insulating glass (VIG) units. More particularly, certain example embodiments relate to techniques for providing localized heating to edge seals of units, and/or unitized ovens for accomplishing the same. In certain example embodiments, a unit is pre-heated to one or more intermediate temperatures, localized heating via at least one substantially two-dimensional array of heat sources is provided proximate to the peripheral edges of the unit so as to melt frits placed thereon, and cooled. In certain non-limiting implementations, the pre-heating and/or cooling may be provided in one or more steps. An oven for accomplishing the same may include multiple zones for performing the above-noted steps, each zone optionally including one or more chambers. Accordingly, in certain example embodiments, a temperature gradient proximate to the edges of the unit is created, thereby reducing the chances of breakage and/or at least some de-tempering of the substrates.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.