ES3062388T3 - Window and assembly comprising a frameless sash covering a fixed frame - Google Patents

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Window and assembly comprising a frameless sash covering a fixed frame

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention falls within the field of windows in the broadest sense of the term, including operable windows such as casement windows, tilt-and-turn windows, as well as fixed windows. Windows consist of a sash attached to a fixed frame mounted in an opening or tunnel in a wall or the like. The present invention relates more particularly to high-performance windows comprising a frameless sash defined by an inner surface bounded by an inner glazing perimeter and an outer surface bounded by an outer glazing perimeter, wherein the inner and outer surfaces are made of inner and outer glazing, respectively, and the inner and outer glazing does not include an outer frame profile. The present invention proposes a novel window concept that improves thermal insulation and offers new design opportunities with new aesthetic aspects available to designers.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Windows typically consist of a frame attached to a fixed frame mounted in an opening or tunnel in a wall or similar structure. The sash comprises one, two, or more panes of glass attached to frame profiles that extend over part or all of a glazing perimeter. Frame profiles are typically made of metal, wood, polymer, or composite material. A pane of glass may consist of a single pane or multiple panes. Frame profiles may be either interior or exterior. "Interior frame profile" herein refers to frame profiles that are fitted between at least two panes of glass so as not to protrude beyond the perimeter of the panes. Conversely, "exterior frame profile" refers to frame profiles that are attached to the interior and/or exterior surface of the glazing facing an interior and/or exterior environment of the window, respectively. The outer frame profiles are always visible from at least one of the window's interior or exterior environments. Typically, sashes comprising one or more panes of glass without an outer frame profile are called "frameless sashes." Frameless sashes have been available on the market for several years and are generally characterized by larger transparent areas than corresponding sashes of the same dimensions fitted with an outer frame. Frameless sashes consist of an inner pane of glass that defines the entire interior surface of the sash and an outer pane of glass that defines the entire exterior surface of the sash, with the inner and outer surfaces delimited by inner and outer glazing perimeters. The inner and outer glazing panes are kept separate and parallel to each other by at least a defined space within a peripheral spacer and do not comprise an outer frame profile. Frameless sashes actually consist of an inner frame profile, which is fitted between the inner and outer glazing panes and within the peripheral spacers and the inner and outer glazing perimeters. It consists of profiles whose ends interlock to form the inner frame profile. The inner frame profile is designed to accommodate the hardware needed to lock the frameless sash in a closed or semi-open (e.g., tilted) position. In the case of casement windows, the hinges that allow a sash to open and close may also be enclosed within the inner frame profile so they are not visible from either side of the window.

[0007] Document EP3228795 describes a frameless sash window comprising an inner frame profile made of metal and wood fitted between an outer and an inner glazing. Document EP2436865 describes a frameless sash window comprising an inner frame profile made of polymer or aluminum fitted between an outer and an inner glazing.

[0008] The frameless leaf is attached to a fixed frame, which is itself hermetically coupled to a tunnel perimeter defined by an opening in a wall, with an inner face of the fixed frame facing an interior environment and an outer face of the fixed frame facing an exterior environment, such that the interior environment is separated from the exterior environment by the wall and the window when the frameless leaf is in the closed position.

[0009] The fixed frame can typically be made of fixed frame profiles constructed from metal, wood, polymer, or a composite material. Metals can be chosen, in particular, from aluminum and steel. Aluminum has the advantage of being extremely weather-resistant, unlike wood and polymers in general, which are sensitive to UV rays. Due to the high thermal conductivity of aluminum, fixed aluminum frames are fitted with one or more thermal barriers, usually consisting of a polymer block, typically a thermoplastic block such as a polyamide block. These polymer blocks, positioned between two aluminum elements, reduce thermal conductivity across the thickness of the fixed frame but increase the complexity and cost of aluminum fixed frames.

[0010] The inner surface of the fixed frame is normally at least partially visible when the frameless sash is in the closed position. The inner surface of the fixed frame may be, for example, aligned with the inner surfaces of the inner glazing, as in document EP3847335A1. Two contrasting surfaces are visible on the interior: that of the fixed frame and that of the inner glazing. Since these surfaces are also adjacent to the wall, they create aesthetically challenging situations. Furthermore, the visibility of the inner surface of the fixed frame discourages the use of materials perceived as less aesthetically pleasing, such as polymers and composite materials, and in particular recycled polymers like recycled PVC (polyvinyl chloride), but also recycled wood or composite materials, which have a non-uniform appearance.

[0012] The inner surface of the fixed frame may be concealed by the wall, particularly by plasterboard, as in document EP3296498A1. Installation of these fixed frames is complex and requires extensive finishing work after the frame is fixed. When used to replace existing windows, it is necessary to partially remove the surrounding wall and reinstall it after mounting the fixed frame in the wall opening.

[0014] The present invention proposes a high-energy-performance window comprising a frameless sash coupled to a fixed frame, providing a uniform aesthetic appearance on the interior, combined with enhanced thermal insulation. These and other advantages are described in more detail in the following sections. The present invention is particularly suitable for fixed frame profiles made of recycled wood, wood composite, recycled polymer, or a recycled fiber-reinforced polymer composite, or a combination thereof.

[0016] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The present invention is defined in the appended independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. In particular, the present invention relates to a window comprising (a) a frameless sash comprising

[0019] or an interior glazing defining an interior surface bounded by an interior glazing perimeter, parallel to an exterior surface of an exterior glazing, bounded by an exterior glazing perimeter, the interior and exterior glazing being separated from each other by at least a space defined within a peripheral spacer and not comprising an exterior frame profile,

[0020] or an inner frame profile housed within a defined volume between the inner and outer glazing and between the peripheral spacer and the inner and outer perimeters,

[0021] wherein the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101) comprise an inner peripheral region (14n) and an outer peripheral region (141) extending inwards from an edge of the inner and outer glazing, along the entire perimeters of the inner and outer glazing, respectively, to preferably at least the peripheral spacer (121, 12i) that contacts the corresponding glazing, wherein the inner and outer peripheral regions have a visible light transmission, TL, at least 50% lower than that of the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101), outside the respective inner and outer peripheral regions, and are preferably opaque,

[0022] (b) a fixed frame defining a frame opening having an outer face bounded by an outer frame perimeter coinciding with the outer glazing perimeter and an inner face bounded by an inner frame perimeter, said fixed frame comprising,

[0023] or a fixed frame profile having an inner side and an outer side,

[0024] or receiving elements for coupling the frameless sash to the fixed frame in the closed position, closing the frame opening, wherein the inner and outer glazing perimeters of the frameless sash are coupled to the inner and outer frame perimeters of the fixed frame, respectively, (c) sealing elements mounted on the fixed frame and/or on the frameless sash to form a seal between the fixed frame and the frameless sash when the latter is in the closed position, to hermetically close the frame opening when the frameless sash is in the closed position,

[0025] wherein, when the frameless sash is in the closed position, at least 60% of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n).

[0027] Covering part of the fixed frame with the inner glazing of frameless sashes reduces the amount of heat exchange, particularly by radiation and/or convection, between the fixed frame and the interior environment. Furthermore, it can help achieve more desirable aesthetic properties and, in particular, help conceal fixed frame materials that may be perceived as less visually appealing, even if they are more economical.

[0029] The receiving elements are suitable for attaching the frameless sash to the fixed frame in one of the following ways: • the frameless sash is securely attached to the fixed frame in the closed position, or

[0030] • the frameless sash is movably coupled to the fixed frame in such a way that the frameless sash can be moved reversibly with respect to the fixed frame from the closed position to an open position in which the frameless sash leaves at least a portion of the frame opening open, either

[0031] ∘ by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges fixed to the fixed frame and defining an axis of rotation parallel to the outer surface when the frameless leaf is in the closed position, or

[0032] ∘ by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges fixed to the fixed frame and defining a rotation axis parallel to the outer surface when the frameless leaf is in the closed position, combined with the displacement of the rotation axis of the frameless leaf with respect to the fixed frame, so that the position of said rotation axis will vary depending on the degree of opening of the frameless leaf.

[0033] The fixed frame profile may be made of metal, wood, polymer, a fiber-reinforced polymer composite, in particular recycled wood, a wood composite, recycled polymer, a recycled fiber-reinforced polymer composite, or a combination thereof. Preferably, it has a frame heat transfer coefficient, Uf, of no more than 2.7 W/m²K, preferably no more than 2.4 W/m²K, more preferably no more than 1.7 W/m²K, and more preferably no more than 1.4 W/m²K. The fixed frame extends inward from a perimeter and has a height H21 extending inward by no more than 130 mm, preferably no more than 110 mm, more preferably no more than 70 mm, even more preferably no more than 50 mm, and most preferably no more than 40 mm. The fixed frame may extend inward to a height H21 of at least 20 mm. The H21 height of the fixed frame profile is measured parallel to the outer surface of the outer glazing when the frameless sash is in the closed position.

[0034] In one embodiment, the frameless sash comprises an intermediate glazing unit forming a three-pane unit consisting of an outer, intermediate, and inner glazing unit separated from each other by two gaps, each gap being defined within a peripheral spacer. In an alternative embodiment, the frameless sash comprises two intermediate glazing units forming a four-pane unit consisting of an outer glazing unit, a first intermediate glazing unit, a second intermediate glazing unit, and an inner glazing unit separated from each other by three gaps, each gap being defined within a peripheral spacer.

[0035] The frameless sash is preferably movably coupled to the fixed frame. In many embodiments, the inner glazing perimeter is larger than the outer glazing perimeter, wherein, in a projection onto the outer surface, the outer glazing perimeter is contained within the inner glazing perimeter.

[0036] The inner and outer glazing comprise an inner and an outer peripheral region extending inwards from an edge of the inner and outer glazing, along the entire perimeters of the inner and outer glazing, respectively, preferably to at least the peripheral spacer that contacts the corresponding glazing. To conceal the inner surface of the fixed frame, the inner and outer peripheral regions preferably have a visible light transmission, TL, at least 50% lower than that of the inner and outer glazing, outside the respective inner and outer peripheral regions. The inner and outer peripheral regions are preferably translucent or opaque. TL is measured according to EN410:2011 using illuminant D65.

[0037] At least one glazing unit may be provided with at least one heat-reflecting film or a low-emissivity film. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the glazing units may be interactive glazing, preferably selected from an electrochromic, thermochromic, or photochromic device, interstitial blinds, a photovoltaic device, a multimedia connection, an antenna, a communication medium, a television, a light source including an LED, a loudspeaker, a sensor including an irradiance, temperature, or acoustic sensor, or a combination thereof. The window may comprise a mechanical, pneumatic, or electrical drive device for reversibly moving the frameless sash relative to the fixed frame from the closed to the open position. A remote control system, including a receiver integrated in the frameless sash and/or the fixed frame, may be provided for actuating the movement of the frameless sash or a functional element.

[0038] The glazing of frameless leaves preferably has a thermal transmittance coefficient, Ug, of no more than 1.0 W/m<2>K, more preferably no more than 0.7 W/m<2>K and even no more than 0.5 W/m<2>K.

[0039] The window of the present invention, when the frameless sash is in the closed position, with at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or 100% of the surface area of the inner face of the fixed frame covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n), can provide a heat transfer coefficient Ufg of the fixed frame covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing of no more than 0.9 x Uf, and in particular no more than 0.8 x Uf. The greater the amount of surface area of the inner face of the fixed frame that is covered, the greater the reduction of the heat transfer coefficient in the covered area. It should be understood that if the fixed frame profile is exposed to the interior environment, then the inner face of the fixed frame profile is the inner face of the fixed frame.

[0040] In an optional embodiment, a cover plate (22) is attached and covers at least 10% of the surface area of the outer face of the fixed frame profile over substantially the entire perimeter of the outer frame. The cover plate may be made of metal, a UV-resistant polymer, or a UV-resistant fiber-reinforced polymer composite. The cover plate thus forms a water and UV barrier for the sealing elements and at least a portion of the fixed frame profile.

[0041] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising:

[0042] • a wall separating an interior environment from an exterior environment and provided with a through opening in the form of a tunnel defined by a tunnel perimeter, and

[0043] • at least one window as defined above, wherein the fixed frame is hermetically coupled to the perimeter of the tunnel, with the inner face of the fixed frame facing the interior environment and the outer face facing the exterior environment, such that the interior environment is separated from the exterior environment by the window when the frameless sash is in the closed position.

[0044] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0045] For a more complete understanding of the nature of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0046] Figure 1: shows a cross-section of a window according to the present invention comprising a frameless leaf formed by three glazing panes separated by two peripheral spacers (a) in the closed position, and (b) in the open position.

[0047] Figure 2 shows several types of windows according to the present invention, (a) a hinged window with two frameless leaves that open by rotation about vertical axes (= single-leaf windows), (b) a hinged window with one frameless leaf that opens by rotation about a vertical axis, and (c) a tilt-and-turn window that opens by rotation about a horizontal axis.

[0048] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a window according to the present invention comprising a frameless sash formed by three glazings separated by two peripheral spacers, in the closed position, (a) wherein the entire inner face of the fixed frame and a portion of the inner wall surface (31) adjacent to the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n), and (b) wherein the fixed frame is provided with a thermal break element (23).

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] As illustrated in Figure 1(a), the present invention relates to a window comprising a frameless leaf (10) coupled to a fixed frame (20).

[0051] Unframed sheet

[0052] The frameless sash comprises an inner glazing (10n) defining an inner surface (10b) bounded by an inner glazing perimeter, parallel to an outer surface (10a) of an outer glazing (101), bounded by an outer glazing perimeter. The inner and outer glazings are separated from each other by at least one space (131) defined within a peripheral spacer (121) and do not comprise an outer frame profile. The space (131) may also be referred to as an intermediate space or cavity. Typically, the peripheral spacer is composed of a desiccant and is usually 6 mm thick or thicker. Generally, the space is filled with a gas that may be selected from air, dry air, argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), carbon dioxide, or a combination thereof. These predetermined gases are effective in preventing heat transfer and/or can be used to reduce sound transmission.

[0053] The frameless sash actually comprises an inner frame profile (11) extending around the entire perimeter of the frameless sash. The inner frame profile is housed within a defined volume between the inner and outer glazing and between the perimeter spacer and the inner and outer perimeters. Because the inner frame profile does not extend beyond the inner and outer glazing perimeters, these sashes are called frameless sashes, even though they do comprise a frame, albeit an inner frame profile. The frameless sash is devoid of an outer frame profile, i.e., it is devoid even of partial frame elements that are fixed to the inner and/or outer surface of the inner and/or outer glazing, respectively. The frameless sash is preferably devoid of any outer element that obscures any part of the inner and/or outer surface of the inner and/or outer glazing, respectively. These outer elements may be, for example, edge protection elements or edge protection profiles. The frameless sash most preferably comprises interior and/or exterior glazing units whose interior and/or exterior surfaces are fully visible, respectively. Most preferably, the interior and exterior surfaces of the interior and exterior glazing units are fully visible.

[0054] The inner frame profile can be made of wood, polymer, fiber-reinforced composite, or metal such as steel or aluminum. However, for optimized thermal insulation, it is preferred that the profile not be made of metal. The inner frame profile contains the hardware necessary to lock/unlock the frameless sash in an open or closed position.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the frameless sheet may comprise an intermediate glazing (10i) forming a three-glazing unit consisting of an outer (101), intermediate (10i = 102) and inner (10n = 103) glazing separated from each other by two spaces (131, 13i = 132), each space being defined within a peripheral spacer (121, 12i = 122). In an alternative embodiment, the glazing may comprise two intermediate glazings (10i) forming a four-glazing unit consisting of an outer glazing (101), a first intermediate (10i = 102), a second intermediate (10(i+1) = 103) and an inner glazing (10n = 104) separated from each other by three gaps (131, 13i = 132, 13(i+1) = 133), each defined within a peripheral spacer (121, 12i).

[0056] To conceal the inner frame profile and most of the hardware enclosed therein from view from the interior and exterior environments separated by the window, the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101) comprise an inner peripheral region (14n) and an outer peripheral region (141) extending inwards over a defined height from an edge of the inner and outer glazing, along the entire perimeters of the inner and outer glazing, respectively, preferably to at least the peripheral spacer (121, 12i) that contacts the corresponding glazing. The inner and outer peripheral regions have a visible light transmission, TL, at least 50% lower than the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101), respectively, outside the respective inner and outer peripheral regions, and are preferably opaque. For example, the peripheral region can be enamelled, etched, or sandblasted to create a texture that results in a translucent peripheral region. The peripheral region can also be made (partially) opaque or translucent by applying a film. The peripheral region can also be colored or comprise decorative patterns. To increase the transparency of the frameless sash (i.e., the transparent area of the window when the frameless sash is in the closed position), the height of the peripheral region, measured from the edge to the center of the glazing, should preferably be between 10 and 120 mm. In particular, to simultaneously cover at least part of the inner face of the fixed frame with the inner peripheral region (14n), the height of this region, measured from the edge to the center of the glazing, should preferably be between 60 and 120 mm. In particular, the height of the outer peripheral region (141) can be less than that of the inner peripheral region (14n). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height of the outer peripheral region (141), measured from an edge towards the center of a glazing, is between 10 and 100 mm, more preferably between 15 and 80 mm, most preferably between 20 and 60 mm.

[0058] Glazing

[0060] The glazing of the present invention may consist of a single glass panel or multiple glass panels. The glass panels, whether single or multiple, may be selected from clear, extra-clear, or colored float glass. In particular, for aesthetic purposes, the glazing may be decorative, such as painted or etched glass, sandblasted glass, or a combination thereof. The term "glass" herein means any type of glass or equivalent transparent material, such as mineral glass or organic glass. The mineral glasses used may be one or more known types of glass, such as soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate or borosilicate glass, crystalline glass, and polycrystalline glass. The glass panel may be obtained by a float process, a wire drawing process, a rolling process, or any other known process for manufacturing a glass panel from a molten glass composition. The glass panel may optionally have ground edges. Edge grinding transforms sharp edges into smooth edges that are much safer for people who might come into contact with a glass panel, particularly the edge of a frameless sheet. Preferably, the glass panel according to the invention is made of soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, or borosilicate glass. More preferably, and for reasons of lower production costs, the glass panel is made of soda-lime-silica glass.

[0062] To maintain high mechanical performance and/or further enhance the safety of the frameless sash, at least one glazing unit preferably consists of a single panel of prestressed glass. For example, the inner glazing unit (10n) and/or the outer glazing unit (101) may be prestressed glass panels. Prestressed glass is heat-strengthened glass, thermally tempered safety glass, or chemically strengthened glass. Aluminosilicate-type glass compositions, such as those in the DragonTrail® product range from Asahi Glass Co. or the Gorilla® product range from Corning Inc., are also known to be suitable for chemical tempering.

[0063] Preferably, the composition for at least one of the frameless glass panels of the present invention comprises the following components in weight percentage, expressed with respect to the total weight of the glass. Comp. A is an example of a first embodiment of a glass composition, and Comp. B is an example of a soda-lime silicate type glass with a base glass matrix.

[0066]

[0067] Other preferred glass compositions for at least one of the frameless glass panels of the present invention comprise the following components in weight percentage, expressed with respect to the total weight of the glass:

[0070]

[0073] Other examples of base glass matrices for glass panel compositions suitable for the present invention are described in documents WO2015/150207, WO2015/150403, WO2016/091672, WO2016/169823, and WO2018/001965.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a glass panel may comprise one or more layers such as low-emissivity layers, heat-reflective layers (solar control layers), anti-reflective layers, and anti-fog layers. The layer or layers may be coated or applied as one or more films. At least one glazing unit (101, 10i, 10n) preferably comprises a glass panel provided with a heat-reflective layer or a low-emissivity layer to improve the thermal insulation properties of the frameless sash.

[0077] Within the present invention, and to improve thermal insulation performance, as well as safety or acoustic performance, at least one of the glazing units (101, 10i, 10n) of the frameless sash may be a multi-pane glazing unit. In particular, the multi-pane glazing unit may be selected from either vacuum insulating glass (VIG) to obtain particularly high insulation properties, or laminated glazing to improve safety and acoustic performance.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the glazing units (101, 10i, 10n) of the frameless sash may be an interactive glazing unit. "Interactive glazing" herein means glazing that integrates functional elements capable of responding to external stimulation from the environment and/or a user. For example, the interactive glazing unit may integrate functional elements including one or more electrochromic, thermochromic, or photochromic devices, interstitial blinds, a photovoltaic device, a multimedia connection, an antenna, media, a television, a light source including an LED, a speaker, a sensor including an irradiance, temperature, acoustic, and similar sensor, or a combination thereof. The electrochromic device and interstitial blinds can be controlled manually, with a switch or a remote control, or they can be coupled to a sensor that measures light irradiation and by means of a controller that automatically controls the voltage applied to the electrochromic device according to the level of irradiation or adjusts the position of the blind.

[0081] The windows of the present invention are preferably highly energy efficient. For this reason, it is preferred that the glazing of the frameless sashes (i.e., the transparent area of the frameless sash) have a thermal transmittance coefficient, Ug, of no more than 1.0 W/m²K, preferably no more than 0.7 W/m²K, or even no more than 0.5 W/m²K.

[0083] Fixed frame

[0085] The frameless sash (10) is attached to a fixed frame (20) that defines a frame opening. The frame opening has an outer face bounded by an outer frame perimeter of the fixed frame, which coincides with the outer glazing perimeter of the frameless sash, and an inner face bounded by an inner frame perimeter of the fixed frame. The frame opening accommodates the frameless sash(s) when the window is closed and allows seamless communication between the interior and exterior environments when the window is open. The fixed frame consists of one or more fixed frame profiles (21). The fixed frame profile can be made of metal, wood, polymer, a fiber-reinforced polymer composite, or a combination thereof. In particular, the fixed frame profile can be made of a weather-sensitive material, such as wood or certain polymers or fiber-reinforced polymer composites (which are sensitive to UV radiation or hydrolysis). The fixed frame profile has an inner face oriented towards the interior environment and comprising the inner frame perimeter of the fixed frame, and an outer face oriented towards the exterior environment and comprising the outer frame perimeter of the fixed frame. When the frameless sash is in the closed position, at least a portion of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). Depending on the shape and aesthetic and technical preferences, different areas of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame may be covered to varying degrees by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n).

[0086] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95%, and more preferably 100% of the surface area of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). This increased coverage limits the contact surface of the fixed frame with the interior atmosphere where heat exchange can occur, thereby improving the window's insulation. At the same time, the visual appearance can be improved.

[0087] The fixed frame has a thickness, W20, measured normal to the outer surface (10a) when the frameless sash is in the closed position, which is equal to the sum of the thicknesses, W21 and W22, of the fixed frame profile and the optional cover plate if present (i.e., W20 = W21 - W22). The fixed frame profile is made of a material selected for its high insulating properties, although generally, to ensure high thermal insulation, the thickness W21 can be increased. The present invention allows a reduction in the width of the fixed frame profile, since the interior glazing compensates for any loss of thermal insulation.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, and more preferably at least 95% of the surface area of the outer face of the fixed frame, projecting onto the inner glazing (10n), is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). The outer and inner faces of the fixed frame may have different dimensions, the larger of these dimensions defining the size of the opening in the building wall covered by the window. This opening in the wall defines the area where the building's insulation is lowest. Covering a larger portion of this opening with the inner glazing improves the window's insulation.

[0089] The fixed frame is provided with receiving elements for coupling the frameless sash to the fixed frame in the closed position, closing the frame opening, wherein the inner and outer glazing perimeters of the frameless sash are coupled to the inner and outer frame perimeters of the fixed frame, respectively. In particular, the receiving elements are designed to accommodate the hardware of the inner frame profile of the frameless sash.

[0090] The frameless sash can be permanently attached to the fixed frame in the closed position and can be designed not to open at any time. The fixed attachment can be reversible, so that the frameless sash can be detached from the fixed frame but cannot be opened or closed like a typical window, while remaining attached to the fixed frame.

[0091] In another embodiment, the frameless sheet can be attached to the fixed frame in such a way that it can be reversibly moved with respect to the fixed frame (20) from a closed position, sealing the frame opening, to an open position, exposing part or all of the frame opening, either

[0092] • by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges fixed to the fixed frame and defining an axis of rotation parallel to the outer surface (10a) when the leaf is in the closed position, or

[0093] • by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges fixed to the fixed frame and defining a rotation axis parallel to the outer surface (10a) when the frameless leaf is in the closed position combined with the displacement of the rotation axis of the frameless leaf with respect to the fixed frame, so that the position of said rotation axis will vary depending on the degree of opening of the frameless leaf.

[0094] The fixed frame profile (21) is preferably of high thermal performance. In particular, the heat transfer coefficient, Uf, of the fixed frame profile is no more than 1.4 W/m²K, preferably no more than 0.7 W/m²K, and more preferably no more than 0.5 W/m²K. The fixed frame profile of a window according to the present invention can be made of metal, wood, polymer, a fiber-reinforced polymer composite, or a combination thereof. Thanks to the additional insulation provided by the inner glazing (10n) covering the inner face of the fixed frame, even fixed aluminum frames can be used, despite having lower heat transfer coefficients, Uf. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fixed frame extends inward from a perimeter and has an inward-extending height H21, preferably no more than 70 mm, more preferably no more than 50 mm, and most preferably no more than 40 mm. Limiting the height of the fixed frame profile allows increasing the frame opening area available for a given fixed frame perimeter or a building wall opening.

[0095] In particular, when the fixed frame profile is made of a highly thermally insulating material that is generally sensitive to weathering, a cover plate (22) may be attached and cover at least 10% of the surface area of the outer face of the fixed frame profile over substantially the entire outer perimeter of the fixed frame profile. The cover plate serves to protect the fixed frame profile from weathering by exposure to UV rays and moisture. A portion of the fixed frame profile may be recessed into the wall and thus not exposed to the external environment. Therefore, the cover plate may preferably cover up to 100% of the exposed surface area of the outer face of the fixed frame profile when it is mounted in a wall tunnel (i.e., 100% of the surface area that is not recessed into the wall). The cover plate can cover from 20 to 100% of the surface of the outer face of the fixed frame profile, preferably from 30 to 90%, more preferably from 40 to 80%.

[0096] The cover plate is used to protect the weather-sensitive material of the fixed frame profile from the elements, especially UV light, and also to protect the fixed frame profile as well as the inner frame profile of the frameless sash from external moisture and water. To meet these requirements, the cover plate is made of a weather-resistant material, such as a metal (e.g., aluminum or steel), UV-resistant polymers or composite materials, or ceramic.

[0097] When the frameless sash is in the closed position, the outer face of the fixed frame can be substantially flush with the outer surface of the outer glazing (101). With the inner glazing (10n) covering at least part of the inner face of the fixed frame, a window is provided with a largely continuous, smooth surface without a significant protrusion or gap extending across the entire area on either side of the window. In addition to the obvious aesthetic advantages, this configuration is particularly advantageous in terms of cleaning since, on the one hand, there are no corners, edges, etc., where dirt can accumulate and be difficult to remove, and on the other hand, the entire inner and outer surface of the window can be cleaned with a continuous motion of a rubber squeegee, thus substantially facilitating window cleaning. Furthermore, since all sealing elements are internal (i.e., located between the inner and outer glazing of the frameless sash when in the closed position), rainwater or cleaning water flows over the surface of the glazing without coming into substantial contact with any sealing element.

[0098] In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated in the figures, when the frameless sash is in the closed position, a portion of the outer peripheral region (141) of the outer glazing may be at least partially covered by the fixed frame (20), in particular by the cover plate if present. With the inner glazing (10n) covering at least part of the inner face of the fixed frame, a window is provided with a mostly continuous, smooth surface without a significant protrusion or gap extending over the entire area of the inner face of the window, while providing a more traditional appearance on the exterior.

[0099] Sealing elements

[0100] As shown in Figure 1, the window of the present invention comprises sealing elements (3) for hermetically sealing the frame opening when the frameless sash is in the closed position, i.e., when the frameless sash closes the frame opening, with the inner and outer glazing perimeters of the frameless sash being coupled to the inner and outer frame perimeters of the fixed frame, respectively. The sealing elements participate in preventing air and/or water leaks between an exterior and an interior environment through gaps between the fixed frame and the frameless sash.

[0101] Sealing elements can be mounted on the fixed frame, for example, on an inner edge of the fixed frame profile that is transverse to the inner and outer faces of the fixed frame profile, and/or on the cover plate. Alternatively, or concurrently, the sealing elements can be mounted on the frameless sash on an outer edge transverse to the inner and outer surfaces. When the frameless sash is in the closed position, the sealing elements deform as the outer edge of the frameless sash fits into the corresponding inner edge of the fixed frame, thus forming a seal between the fixed frame and the frameless sash when the latter is in the closed position. The sealing elements are typically made of rubber or plastic. They can be arranged along the periphery of the window element, fixed frame, and/or frameless sash on which they are mounted. Multiple parallel sealing elements can be provided on each window element.

[0102] Insulating element

[0103] Insulating elements (4) can be mounted on the fixed frame (20) and/or on the frameless sash (10) to form an insulating seal between the fixed frame and the frameless sash when the latter is in the closed position. The insulating elements (4) can be mounted, in particular, on the fixed frame and/or on the inner glazing (10n), specifically between the inner peripheral region (14n) and the inner face of the fixed frame, so that the insulating elements are concealed from view.

[0104] Alternatively, or concomitantly, insulating elements (4) can be mounted on the fixed frame between the wall and the fixed frame.

[0105] Insulating elements, in addition to preventing air and/or water leaks between an exterior and an interior environment, can prevent or reduce the formation of thermal bridges between adjacent parts. In particular, they can prevent thermal bridges between the inner face of a fixed frame and the inner glazing of a frameless sash (10) and/or between a fixed frame and a wall.

[0106] As shown in Figure 1, the window of the present invention may comprise insulating elements (4) to break the thermal bridge between the inner glazing (10n) and the fixed frame when the frameless sash is in the closed position, i.e., when the frameless sash closes the frame opening, the inner and outer glazing perimeters of the frameless sash being coupled to the inner and outer frame perimeters of the fixed frame, respectively. The insulating elements may be mounted on the fixed frame, for example, on an inner surface of the fixed frame profile. Alternatively, or concomitantly, the insulating elements may be mounted on the inner surface of the glazing, supported by the inner surface of the fixed frames. When the frameless sash is in the closed position, these insulating elements are compressed between the inner surface of the fixed frame and the inner glazing of the frameless sash.

[0107] The insulating elements (4) can normally be made of compressible insulating materials. When the frameless sash (10) is in a closed position, the insulating elements (4) can be compressed, for example, between the inner glazing and the inner face of the fixed frame. Furthermore, when a fixed frame is mounted in a wall opening, the insulating elements can be compressed between the wall and the fixed frame.

[0108] Compressible insulating materials can typically be polymer foams, in particular closed-cell polymer foams or open-cell polymer foams. Compressible insulating materials can be selected, for example, from polyethylene, polyurethane, neoprene, silicone, or ethylene propylene diene monomer foams. The compressible insulating material can have, for example, a thermal conductivity of between 0.025 and 0.060 W/mK, preferably between 0.030 and 0.050 W/mK, and in particular between 0.032 and 0.040 W/mK.

[0109] In addition to improving thermal insulation, the insulating elements of the present invention can also improve the acoustic insulation of the glazing according to the present invention.

[0110] Coupling the frameless leaf to the fixed frame

[0111] The fixed frame comprises receiving elements for coupling the frameless sash to the fixed frame in the closed position, closing the frame opening. As mentioned above, the frameless sash can be permanently coupled to the fixed frame, so that the frameless sash cannot be easily opened or closed (it can possibly be removed from the fixed frame, but the frame opening cannot be opened while it is still coupled to the fixed frame).

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, the frameless leaf is movably coupled to the fixed frame such that the frameless leaf can be reversibly moved with respect to the fixed frame (20) from the closed position to an open position in which the frameless leaf leaves at least a portion of the frame opening open, with the frameless leaf remaining coupled to the fixed frame.

[0113] Figure 2 illustrates different possible configurations of the present invention.

[0114] Figure 2(a) shows a casement window (which could be a glass door if the frameless sashes extend to the floor), comprising two movable frameless sashes mounted on hinges (40) aligned to define vertical axes of rotation. This window design may also be called a "stulp." The dashed triangles indicate the opening direction, with the apex being the edge opposite the hinges and away from the fixed frame, and the base (vertical) being the axis of rotation defined by the hinge positions. Figure 2(b) shows a casement window similar to that in Figure 2(a) but comprising a single frameless sash instead of two. Figure 2(c) shows a tiltable frameless sash attached to the fixed frame by hinges located on the lower horizontal edge of the fixed frame. Thus, the upper edge of the frameless sash can be moved away from the upper edge of the fixed frame by rotation about a horizontal pivot axis. Most tilt-and-turn windows can also be opened by rotating around a vertical axis, as discussed in Figure 2(b), thus combining both opening modes. These windows are called tilt-and-turn windows.

[0115] In a particular embodiment, as clearly illustrated in Figure 1, the frameless sash is preferably movably coupled to the fixed frame, and the inner glazing perimeter of the frameless sash is larger than the outer glazing perimeter, with the projection of the outer glazing perimeter onto the outer surface contained within a projection of the inner glazing perimeter. The fixed frame, of course, has a geometry that matches, with the inner perimeter of the frame opening being larger than the outer perimeter of the frame opening. This provides the significant advantage of improving the sealing of the interface between the frameless sash and the fixed frame. In fact, as illustrated in Figure 1, several surfaces of both the sash and the fixed frame, which are substantially parallel to the outer surface when the frameless sash is in the closed position, can thus face each other and collide when the frameless sash is in the closed position. By providing sealing elements between two facing and contiguous surfaces, a hermetic seal can be formed between the frameless sash and the fixed frame. By providing insulating elements between the facing and contiguous surfaces of the inner glazing and the fixed frame, additional insulation is provided between the fixed frame and the interior environment.

[0116] The slope formed by a straight line extending between the inner glazing perimeter and the recessed outer glazing perimeter is preferably between 30° and 60° and is preferably equal to 45° ± 5° to optimize the sealing contact between the frameless sash and the fixed frame. The same applies to casement windows, in which the central vertical edges of two frameless frames come into contact, as illustrated in Figure 2(a). It can be seen in Figure 2(a) that, unlike the left-side frameless sash, which is characterized by a trapezoidal cross-section according to the previous discussion, the right-side frameless sash has a parallelogram cross-section, with the inner glazing perimeter recessed relative to the outer glazing perimeter at the level of the central vertical edge that comes into contact with the left-side sash in the closed position. In this way, the central vertical edges of the two leaves come together and fit tightly in the closed position.

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the frameless sash is in the closed position, the entire inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). Thus, from the inside, only the inner glazing is visible, and the fixed frame is invisible. This allows for various aesthetic choices; for example, materials perceived as less refined, such as a polymer, e.g., PVC (polyvinyl chloride), or fiber-reinforced polymer composites, and in particular recycled polymer materials, which may have a less homogeneous appearance, can be used.

[0118] In one embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in Figure 3(a), when the frameless sash is in the closed position, at least a portion of the inner wall surface (31) adjacent to the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). The walls and window frames are subject to movement, for example, due to thermal expansion or humidity, which can cause cracks to appear where they are in contact. These cracks can be covered by the frameless sash extending beyond the inner face of the fixed frame. At the same time, at least a portion of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). Advantageously, the entire inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n).

[0119] In one embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in Figure 3(b), the fixed frame (20) is provided with a thermal break element (23). These thermal break elements are used to limit thermal conduction through the fixed frame, particularly when fixed frame materials with high thermal conductivity are used, especially metal fixed frames made of steel and aluminum. The thermal break elements limit thermal conduction through the fixed frame and, in combination with the additional thermal insulation provided by the inner glazing covering a portion of the inner face of the fixed frame, further enhance the overall insulation of the window. The materials for these thermal break elements are typically selected from polyurethane resin, polyamide, polyamide reinforced with 25% glass fiber, PVC, expanded polystyrene (EPS), wood fiber insulation board, or high-density polyethylene foam with a self-adhesive backing.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the window comprises a mechanical, pneumatic, or electrical drive device for reversibly moving the frameless sash (10) relative to the fixed frame (20) from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. The drive device can be activated by a switch located on the window or on the wall (30) supporting the window. Alternatively or additionally, the drive device can be activated by a remote control system, which includes a receiver integrated into the frameless sash and/or the fixed frame for actuating the movement of the frameless sash. The remote control system can preferably also control any functionality of the glazing as discussed above in the section entitled "glazing," such as an electrochromic device, a multimedia connection, an antenna, media, a television, a light source including an LED, a speaker, a sensor, and the like.

[0121] Although the present invention relates to true windows comprising a true frame without an external frame profile, it is obvious, though aesthetically less desirable, that alternatives with an external frame profile are feasible in the interior or exterior glazing. The reasons for having such an external frame profile may be, for example, the desire to provide additional edge protection or the desire to obtain a more traditional appearance for better fitting into a particular architectural setting.

[0122] Window Assembly

[0123] The window of the present invention is used to allow light to pass through an opening in a wall. In many cases, a window can be opened to allow seamless communication between interior and exterior environments separated by the wall. For this purpose, the wall (30), which separates the interior environment from the exterior environment, is provided with a through-opening in the form of a tunnel (30t) defined by a tunnel perimeter. The fixed frame (20) is tightly coupled to the tunnel perimeter, with the inner face of the fixed frame facing the interior environment and the outer face of the fixed frame facing the exterior environment. When the frameless sash is in the closed position, the interior environment is separated from the exterior environment by the window.

[0124] The opening ratio, A0 = Af / At, defined above, where Af and At are the areas of the frame opening and the tunnel, respectively, depends on the dimensions of the fixed frame. The thermal insulation of the fixed frame generally increases with the width of the fixed frame profile W21. Generally, the thermal insulation of the fixed frame can also be increased by adding chambers to the fixed frame profile, which can increase the width of the frame profile W21 and/or the height H21 of the fixed frame profile. These common strategies for increasing the thermal insulation of the fixed frame tend to decrease the opening ratio A0, whereas with the present invention, thermal conduction through the fixed frame can be decreased without decreasing the opening ratio A0.

[0125] REF CHARACTERISTIC

[0126]

Claims (16)

1. CLAIMS 1. A window comprising, (a) a frameless sheet (10) comprising • an inner glazing (10n) defining an inner surface (10b) bounded by an inner glazing perimeter, parallel to an outer surface (10a) of an outer glazing (101), bounded by an outer glazing perimeter, the inner and outer glazings being separated from each other by at least a space (131, 13i) defined within a peripheral spacer (121, 12i) and not comprising an outer frame profile, • an inner frame profile (11) housed within a defined volume between the inner and outer glazing and between the peripheral spacer and the inner and outer perimeters, wherein the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101) comprise an inner peripheral region (14n) and an outer peripheral region (141) extending inwards from an edge of the inner and outer glazing, along the entire perimeters of the inner and outer glazing, respectively, to preferably at least the peripheral spacer (121, 12i) that contacts the corresponding glazing, wherein the inner and outer peripheral regions have a visible light transmission, TL, at least 50% lower than that of the inner glazing (10n) and the outer glazing (101), outside the respective inner and outer peripheral regions, and are preferably opaque, (b) a fixed frame (20) defining a frame opening having an outer face bounded by an outer frame perimeter coinciding with the outer glazing perimeter and an inner face bounded by an inner frame perimeter, said fixed frame comprising, • a fixed frame profile (21) having an inner face and an outer face • Receiving elements for coupling the frameless sash to the fixed frame in the closed position, closing the frame opening, wherein the inner and outer glazing perimeters of the sash are coupled to the inner and outer frame perimeters of the fixed frame, respectively, (c) sealing elements (3) mounted on the fixed frame and/or on the frameless sash to form a seal between the fixed frame and the sash when the latter is in the closed position, to hermetically seal the frame opening when the sash is in the closed position, characterized by, When the frameless sash is in the closed position, at least 60% of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). 2. Window according to claim 1, wherein when the frameless sash is in the closed position, • at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, most preferably 100% of the surface of the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). 3. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixed frame has a height, H21, of no more than 130 mm, preferably no more than 110 mm and more preferably no more than 70 mm, even more preferably no more than 50 mm, most preferably no more than 40 mm. 4. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein when the frameless sash is in the closed position, • at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% of the surface of the outer face of the fixed frame, projected onto the inner glazing (10n), is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the inner glazing (10n). 5. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving elements are suitable for attaching the frameless sash to the fixed frame in one of the following ways, • the frameless sash is fixed to the fixed frame in the closed position, or • the frameless sash is movably coupled to the fixed frame in such a way that the frameless sash can be moved reversibly with respect to the fixed frame (20) from the closed position to an open position in which the frameless sash leaves at least a portion of the frame opening open, either • by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges (40) fixed to the fixed frame and defining an axis of rotation parallel to the outer surface (10a) when the frameless leaf is in the closed position, or • by rotating the frameless leaf around hinges fixed to the fixed frame and defining a rotation axis parallel to the outer surface when the frameless leaf is in the closed position, combined with the displacement of the rotation axis of the frameless leaf with respect to the fixed frame, so that the position of said rotation axis will vary depending on the degree of opening of the frameless leaf. 6. Window according to any of the preceding claims, comprising insulating elements (4) mounted on the fixed frame (20) and/or on the frameless sash (10), preferably between the inner peripheral region (14n) and the inner face of the fixed frame. 7. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixed frame profile (21), • is made of metal, wood, polymer, a fiber-reinforced polymer composite or a combination of these, and/or • is made from recycled wood, wood composite, recycled polymer, a polymer composite reinforced with recycled fiber and/or • has a frame heat transfer coefficient, Uf, of no more than 2.7 W/m<2>K, preferably no more than 2.4 W/m<2>K, more preferably no more than 1.7 W/m<2>K, more preferably no more than 1.4 W/m<2>K, and/or • has a thickness, W21, of no more than 70 mm, preferably no more than 65 mm and more preferably no more than 60 mm. 8. Window according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cover plate (22) attached to and covering at least 10% of a surface area of the outer face of the fixed frame profile over substantially the entire perimeter of the outer frame. 9. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frameless sash comprises, • an intermediate glazing (10i) forming a three-glazing unit consisting of an outer glazing (101), an intermediate glazing (10i = 102) and an inner glazing (10n = 103) separated from each other by two openings (131, 13i = 132), each opening being defined within a peripheral spacer (121, 12i = 122), or • two intermediate glazings (10i) forming a four-glazing unit consisting of an outer glazing (101), a first intermediate glazing (10i = 102), a second intermediate glazing (10(i+1) = 103) and an inner glazing (10n = 104) separated from each other by three gaps (131, 13i = 132, 13(i+1) = 133), each defined within a peripheral spacer (121, 12i). 10. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frameless sash is movably coupled to the fixed frame and wherein the inner glazing perimeter is larger than the outer glazing perimeter, and wherein, in a projection onto the outer surface, the outer glazing perimeter is contained within the inner glazing perimeter. 11. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one glazing (101, 10i, 10n) is provided with at least one heat ray reflecting film or a low emissivity film. 12 Window according to any of claims 5 to 10, comprising a mechanical, pneumatic or electric drive device for reversibly moving the frameless sash (10) with respect to the fixed frame (20) from the closed position to the open position. 13. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the glazing units (101, 10i, 10n) is an interactive glazing unit, preferably selected from an electrochromic, thermochromic or photochromic device, interstitial blinds, a photovoltaic device, a multimedia connection, an antenna, media, a television, a light source including an LED, a speaker, a sensor including an irradiance, temperature or acoustic sensor, or a combination thereof. 14. Window according to claim 12 or 13, comprising a remote control system, including a receiver integrated in the frameless sash and/or in the fixed frame for actuating the movement of the frameless sash or a functional element. 15. Window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frameless sash glazing has a thermal transmittance coefficient, Ug, of no more than 1.0 W/m<2>K, preferably no more than 0.7 W/m<2>K, more preferably no more than 0.5 W/m<2>K. 16 Set comprising: • a wall (30) separating an interior environment from an exterior environment and provided with a through-opening in the form of a tunnel (30t) defined by a tunnel perimeter, and an interior wall surface (31) facing the interior environment, and • at least one window according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixed frame (20) is hermetically coupled to the tunnel perimeter, with the inner face of the fixed frame facing the interior environment and the outer face of the fixed frame facing the exterior environment, such that the interior environment is separated from the exterior environment by the window when the frameless sash is in the closed position, characterized by A portion of the interior wall surface (31) adjacent to the inner face of the fixed frame is covered by the inner peripheral region (14n) of the interior glazing (10n).