Abstract:
A framed panel and related method of manufacture are disclosed. A framed panel unit includes a panel along the edge of which thermoplastic frame members are disposed. The frame members have first and second opposed side walls which define a channel for receiving the edge of the panel. The channel of each frame member has spacers between the panel and each side wall for spacing the panel from the side walls. Prior to welding together the ends of the frame members, the spacers retain the frame members on the panel. The panel may include multiple opposed sheet members with a spacer between the sheet members spacing them apart, and a reactive thermoplastic sealant material bonding the sheets to the frame members. An associated method of forming a framed panel, frame members for a panel, and a spacer component for use in mounting a panel within a channel of a frame member are also disclosed.
Abstract:
A fenestration assembly comprising a sliding glass assembly that slides between a fully closed position and a fully open position in which the sliding glass assembly is received into a pocket of the fenestration assembly. The pocket is covered on at least one side with insulation. The fenestration assembly may have two sliding glass assemblies. The fenestration assembly may be used in an energy efficient building system.
Abstract:
Vibratory welded connections are formed between first and second members (32, 33) of thermoplastic material by interposing a junction piece (47) of similar material and vibrating the junction piece (47) at high speed while pressing the first and second members (32,33) in a controlled manner against opposite sides of the junction piece (47). Friction created by the vibration generates heat which melts a small amount of material at the engaging surfaces which upon cooling provides a strong welded joint having minimal flash. Entire frame systems such as window frames can be fabricated by an apparatus system (120) which forms a friction welded joint between adjacent ends of the frame members (134, 135, 136, 137). Furthermore the frame can be fabricated around a panel such as a glazing panel. The welded connections formed by the system do not mar the finish of the frame members and produce no unsightly flash bead requiring subsequent machining steps for its removal.
Abstract:
The present disclosure describes equipment, methods, and systems for energy efficient buildings. In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a building energy system is disclosed that comprises a plurality of homes and a central server that is configured to match supply and demand of electricity consumption from non-fossil fuel sources. In the building energy system, each of the plurality of homes comprise a home controller that can communicate with the central server over a communication network. The plurality of homes further comprise several sub-systems and equipment that further reduce energy consumption and integrate with the home controller to reduce GHGs associated with electricity consumption.
Abstract:
A solar energy collection system for a building enclosure with an insulated building envelope allows excess solar gains to be captured, stored and used for subsequent heating. The system controls operation of a fenestration assembly that has an adjustable R-value. The fenestration assembly can be controlled to allow additional solar gains to be captured and the captured heat and used for subsequent heating when required.
Abstract:
A metal air cell (10) and cell system is provided. In general, the cell (10) includes a cathode structure (14) comprising opposing cathode portions and a space configured for receiving an anode structure (12). The anode structure (12) includes a pair of rigid structures (20) having plural apertures (26) for allowing ionic communication and anode material (16) between the rigid structures (20). A separator (18) is disposed between the anode (12) and cathode (14) to electrically isolate the anode (12) and the cathode (14). The rigid structures (20) of the anode structure (12) facilitate removal of the anode structure (12) from the cathode structure (14). In certain embodiments, anode structures (12) are formed with bimodal gelling agents to promote an even distribution of anode material (16) and electrolyte gel.