EP4613964A1

EP4613964A1 - Glazed assembly providing all seasons thermal confort

Info

Publication number: EP4613964A1
Application number: EP24161852.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Pierre Schneider; Amélia DESMEDT; Julien JEANFILS; Tanguy Timmermans; Olivier Bouesnard; Thomas Lescot
Original assignee: AGC Glass Europe SA
Current assignee: AGC Glass Europe SA
Priority date: 2024-03-06
Filing date: 2024-03-06
Publication date: 2025-09-10

Abstract

The present invention relates to a glazed assembly (A) configured to close an opening within a partition separating a first space, Sp1, from a second space, Sp2. It comprises a glazing unit that comprises :- a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11), a second face (F12), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a first energetic absorptance, AE1;- a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face (F21), a second face (F22), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a second energetic absorptance, AE2; and- a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of the first glass pane and the first face of the second glass pane, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling the first glass pane and the second glass pane; and defining a first internal volume (41).Within the glazing unit, the first face of GP1 is oriented towards the first space; part of the second glass pane extends beyond the spacer assembly in at least one edge, GP2e and the second energetic absorptance is greater than the first energetic absorptance (AE2 > AE1).The glazed assembly further comprises at least one thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element (51). The thermo-electric module is coupled on the part of the second glass pane that extends beyond the first spacer assembly.

Description

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates to glazed assembly, in particular a glazed assembly for building windows, that are configurated to provide all seasons thermal comfort.

2. Background of the invention

Current building market trend is to increase natural light and therefore the glazing surface. However, to respond to climate change, a further market trend is to increase the energy performance of the building including of the energy performance of the glazing surfaces. Typical solution to minimize the energy consumption of the building is to use glazing unit having insulating performances. Insulating performances comprise thermal insulation and/or solar control performances.
Glazing unit such as double glazing or triple glazing, are common answers to provide thermal insulation properties and/or solar control performance. Typically, the glazing unit will further comprise one or more functional coatings such as high thermal insulating coating - also designated as low-emissivity coating, to reduce the energy transmission by radiation and/or selective solar control coatings allowing sunlight to enter the building while radiating and reflecting away a large portion of the sun heat. Such low-emissivity coating are particularly efficient in energy saving in the winter since they minimize the amount of energy dissipated to the outside environment. However, maintaining energy within the building can be detrimental in summer conditions. On the other hand, solar control techniques allow to maintain the interior of the building brighter and much cooler in the summer. However, in winter conditions, high solar control performance can be detrimental since it limits the amount of energy entering inside the building.
Several solutions have been proposed in the art to address the technical problem of balancing the thermal insulation properties and the solar control performance of glazing unit to provide the best performance in both summer and winter.
One solution is the use of a drop-down blind within the internal space of the double glazing having typically a low emissivity coating. In sunny conditions, the blind is closed to prevent the sun heat to enter the interior of the building. For cold exterior temperatures, the blind is rolled up allowing the sunlight to enter and heat up the interior space. However, it has been found that such technical solution has serious drawbacks: when the blind is unrolled, it indeed blocks up partially the sunlight but also darken greatly the interior space. This can induce the light transmission to decrease substantially up to 1%. The unrolled blind creates two separate artificial cavities within the internal space, that increase the thermal insulation performance of the double glazing and therefore limits the dissipation of the heat from the interior of the building to the external environment. In hot exterior temperature conditions, the unrolled blind has the advantage to prevent sun heat to enter the interior space but has the disadvantage to limit the heat dissipation from the interior space to the exterior space. In cold exterior temperature conditions, the unrolled blind has the advantage to prevent the heat dissipation from the interior space to the exterior space but has the disadvantage to not allow sun heat to enter the interior space while darkening this interior space. Furthermore, the addition of a blind within the internal space of the double glazing induce several technical challenges to ensure a proper, efficient and sustainable rolling up and rolling down of the blind. Glazing unit with drop-down blind requires also tempered glass in order to avoid glass breakage that can be caused by unbalanced temperatures within the internal space resulting from the position of the blind.
Another solution is for example a reversible window unit wherein a double glazing is enclosed in an opening frame pivotally mounted with a fixed frame to function efficiently as a solar energy collector in winter and as a heat shield in summer. Such windows are often double glazed wherein the exterior pane is tinted having high solar energy absorption or selectively absorbing having for example some solar control coating. The absorbing pane when facing the exterior of the building, rejects part of the absorbed solar radiation to the environment - which is highly desirable in the hot season and highly undesirable in the cold season. However, when such double glazing is reverse such that the absorbing pane is facing the interior of the building, the absorbing pane provides a significant solar heat gain to the interior of the building, which is beneficial in the cold season but detrimental in the hot season. Thus, windows that can be reversed according to the season are beneficial both in hot and cold seasons. However, it is very complex to design frames for such reversible windows that meet all the requirements to provide proper tightness properties. Complex gaskets systems are required. In addition, those frames are typically heavy construction, require complex rotation and fixations systems to provide safety and security, and not very consumers friendly.
Therefore there is still a need to design a glazed assembly that provides an improved all-seasons thermal comfort by limiting excessive cooling of the building interior space in hot exterior temperatures conditions and by limiting excessive heating of the building interior space in cold exterior temperatures conditions.
There is still the need to design a simple and effective glazed assembly using the energy absorbing properties of high absorbing glass panes, whereby the accumulated heat is transferred in the interior or exterior to the building according to the season, without requiring the technical complexity of reversibility or built-in blinds. Hence, there is still a need to configure such all-seasons thermal glazed assembly that can be easily adapted to an existing fixed frame and would be suitable for any applications such as openable or non-openable windows as well as glass doors.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a glazed assembly configured to close an opening within a partition separating a first space, Sp1, from a second space, Sp2. The glazed assembly comprises a glazing unit that comprises :

a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face, a second face, an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a first energetic absorptance, AE1;
a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face, a second face, an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a second energetic absorptance, AE2;

a first spacer assembly positioned between the second face of the first glass pane and the first face of the second glass pane, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling the first glass pane and the second glass pane; and defining a first internal volume.

The first face of GP1 is oriented towards the first space and a part of the second glass pane extends beyond the first spacer assembly in at least one edge, GP2e.
The glazed assembly further comprises at least one thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element that is coupled on the first face of the second glass pane, on the part of the second glass pane that extends beyond the first spacer assembly. Preferably, the at least one thermo-electric element is a Peltier functioning element. Preferably the thermo-electric module further comprise at least one heat transfer means coupled to the at least one thermo-electric element.
Within the glazing unit, GP2e extends preferably in the upper edge and/or on at least in one of the lateral edges of the GP2, or GP2e extends preferably in the upper edge and/or on the bottom edge of the GP2.
It is preferred that GP2e, does extend beyond the corresponding at least one edge of the GP1. GP2e, does typically extend by at least 5cm, 7cm, 8cm or even 10cm beyond the first spacer assembly.
In one embodiment, GP2 with higher energy absorptance, is a single tinted mineral glass sheet or a laminate of two mineral glass sheets with a polymer interlayer. Typically, AE2 is equal to or greater than 10% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.1 AE1), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.15 AE1), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE1 (AE2 > 1.2 AE1), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.3 AE1).
In one embodiment, the glazing unit is a triple glazing and therefore further comprises:

a third glass pane, GP3, having a first face, a second face, an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges, and having an energetic absorptance, AE3,
a second spacer assembly positioned between :
- the second face of GP2 and the first face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling GP2 and GP3; and defining a second internal volume; OR
- the first face of GP1 and the second face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling GP1 and GP3; and defining a second internal volume.

Preferably, the second spacer assembly is positioned between the second face of GP2 and the first face of GP3. Within such embodiment, AE2, the higher energetical absorptance of GP2 is equal to or greater than 10% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.1 AE3), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.15 AE3), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.2 AE3), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.3 AE3).
The glazed assembly can further comprising a second thermo-electric module being coupled to the face of the second glass pane on GP2e that faces Sp2, said second thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element, preferably a Peltier functioning element.
At least a part at of one pane face of the glazing unit can comprise a functional coating.
In a preferred embodiment, the glazed assembly further comprises at least one ventilation means comprising a ventilation cap defining a ventilation path. The ventilation cap encompasses the at least one thermo-electric module, is coupled to at least one of the glass panes of the glazing unit, and comprises at least two ventilation holes opening to Sp1 and at least two ventilation holes opening to Sp2. The at least one ventilation means does not fluidly connect Sp1 and Sp2.
To provide electrical current to the Peltier functioning element, thermo-electric module can further comprise at least one Seebeck functioning element or a photovoltaic solar cell module preferably located close to the thermo-electric module. The photovoltaic solar cell module is located on the outer face of the glazed assembly that faces Sp1 being an exterior space, preferably located on ventilation cap and/or on a small part of the first glass pane, GP1.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and further aspects of the invention will be explained in greater detail by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings. The Figures are not drawn to scale.

Figure 1 shows a cross sectional view of a glazed assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention wherein the glazing unit is a double glazing that comprises a thermo-electric module on the part of the second glass pane that extends on its upper edge.
Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a glazed assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention wherein the glazing unit is a tripe glazing that comprises two thermo-electric modules located on each face of the second glass pane that extends in its upper edge.
Figure 3 is a 3D schematic view of a glazed assembly according to one embodiment of the invention wherein the glazing unit is a double glazing that comprises a thermo-electric module on the part of the second glass pane that extends on its upper edge and wherein the thermo-electric module further comprises heat transfer means.
Figure 4 is a schematic view of a glazed assembly according to Figure 2 wherein each thermo-electric module further comprises heat transfer means.
Figure 5 is a schematic view of a glazed assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention wherein the glazing unit is a double glazing that comprises a thermo-electric module on the part of the second glass pane that extends on its lateral edge. The thermo-electric module further comprising heat transfer means
Figure 6 is a schematic view of a glazed assembly according to certain embodiments of the present invention, wherein the glazing unit is a tripe glazing, and that further comprises a ventilation cap with two ventilation holes opening to the first space and two ventilation holes opening to the second space (not visible).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The objective of the present invention is to design a simple and efficient glazed assembly that provides all-seasons thermal comfort. In particular, the glazed assembly of the present invention is energy efficient by providing both thermal insulation performance in a cold exterior temperature conditions and solar control performance in a hot exterior temperature conditions.
Another objective of the present invention is to design such all-seasons glazed assembly that is simple, flexible, easy to produce and cost-effective, and can be easily adapted to any conventional frame as well as to existing frames. By simple, flexible and easy to produce and adaptable, it means that it does not require for example, the complexity of reversibility of the window requiring complex gasket systems, or the incorporation of a blind in the internal space.
It is a further objective of the present invention to design such all-seasons glazed assembly to be adapted to any kind of frames for openable windows such as casement windows, tilting windows, sliding windows and glass doors as well as non-openable windows.
It is also an objective of the present invention to provide a glazed assembly that demonstrates thermal comfort in all-seasons, for large glazing surfaces promoting high amount of natural light to enter inside the building in all-seasons while counteracting the negative excessive sun heat in the summer and the negative heat loss in the winter.
A further objective is to reach the climate control goals of energy savings and reduced carbon footprint. Indeed, the amount (and therefore the cost) of heating and cooling a home is closely related to the performance of the glazing. An initial investment in an energy efficient glazed assembly can greatly reduce the need of heating and/or cooling.
It has been found that the heat contribution of high absorbing glass panes within a glazed assembly can be managed depending on the seasons, when combined with a thermo-electric module and can be used to contribute to the thermal management of the building. In particular, it has been found that such system allows to increase or decrease the heat contribution of such glass pane and thereby increase or decrease the building needs for heating or cooling.
The present invention relates to a glazed assembly configured to close an opening within a partition separating a first space from a second space, such as in general-purpose glazing units, a build wall, automotive glazing units or architectural glazing units,... Preferably, the first space refers to an exterior space, more preferably the exterior of a building and the second space refers to an interior space, more preferably the interior of a building. The ambient air temperature within the interior space is typically from 18° to 25°C. In winter, the exterior temperature is typically lower than ambient air temperature, whereas in summer, the exterior temperature is typically higher than the ambient air temperature. Indeed, the temperature of the exterior space can extend from -20°C in winter to +40°C and even up to 50°C in summer.
Therefore, the present invention relates to glazed assembly comprising a higher absorbing glass pane combined with a thermo-electric module that will selectively increase or reduce the contribution of the heat absorbed by such glass pane according the high or low sunlight conditions. The glazed assembly can then contribute to the thermal management of the building and provides an all-seasons thermal comfort.
In particular, the glazing unit will comprise at least one glass pane having a higher energetic absorptance than the other glass pane(s).
Preferably, the glass pane having the higher energetic absorptance of the glazing unit is facing the interior space; i.e. the second space is the interior space of a building. It has been surprisingly found that within such configuration, the heat absorbed by the higher energetic absorptance glass pane may be increased and dissipated towards the interior space in winter and thereby contributing to the heating of the interior of the building. It has been further surprisingly found that within such configuration, the heat absorbed by the higher energetic absorptance glass pane may be decreased and dissipated towards the exterior space in summer and thereby limiting the overheating of the interior of the building.
The present invention relates to a glazed assembly (A) configured to close an opening within a partition separating a first space, Sp1, from a second space, Sp2, and extends along a plane, P, defined by a longitudinal axis, X, and a vertical axis, Z. Preferably, the first space is the exterior space, more preferably the exterior space of a building. Therefore, the second space is the interior space and preferably the interior space of a building.
The glazed assembly has a lower edge and an upper edge parallel to the longitudinal axis, X, and lateral edges, parallel to a vertical axis, Z. It is well understood that the upper edge has a higher Z value than the lower edge. It is well understood that the lateral edges are substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis, Z and are connecting the upper edge to the lower edge. Typically, the glass panes are rectangular or square and have 2 faces, an upper edge, a lower edge and 2 lateral edges.
As illustrated in Figure 1, the glazed assembly comprises a glazing unit that comprises :

a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11), a second face (F12), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a first energetic absorptance, AE1;
a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face (F21), a second face (F22), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a second energetic absorptance, AE2; and
a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of the first glass pane (F12) and the first face of second glass pane (F21), over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling the first and second glass panes; and defining a first internal volume (41).

The first face (F11) of the first glass pane, GP1, of the glazing unit faces the first space. The second face (F22) of the second glass pane, GP2, of the glazing unit faces the second space. The second glass pane is characterized by having a part extending beyond the first spacer assembly in at least one edge, GP2e. The glazing unit is further characterized in that the energetic absorptance of the second glass pane, AE2 is greater than the energetic absorptance of the first glass pane, AE1 : (AE2 > AE1).

GLAZING UNIT

GP2 and extension

The second glass pane, GP2, has a part extending beyond the spacer assembly on at least one edge of GP2, said part or portion is designated as GP2e. In other words, GP2e protrudes over the spacer assembly towards the exterior of the glazing unit, in the direction opposite to the spacer assembly. GP2e extends beyond the spacer assembly on one edge of GP2 or on several edges of GP2. GP2e can extend beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge and/or on at least one of the lateral edges of GP2 and/or on the bottom edge.
Depending on the size of the glazed assembly as well as on its orientation versus the exterior and interior spaces, different positions of the thermo-electric module coupled on GP2 can be preferred. For example, when the glazed assembly is installed in landscape configuration (i.e. larger than higher), it is advantageous that thermoelectric module(s) is/are at least coupled on the upper edge and/or on the lateral edges of GP2e. When the glazed assembly is installed in portrait configuration (i.e. higher than larger), it is advantageous that thermoelectric module(s) is/are at least coupled on the upper edge and/or on the bottom edge of GP2e. Hence GP2e preferably extends in its upper edge and/or on at least in one of its lateral edges, or GP2e extends in its upper edge and/or on its bottom edge.
In another particular embodiment, GP2e extends not only beyond the spacer assembly, but also beyond the corresponding edge(s) of GP1 so that GP2e protrudes over GP1 on that edge or on these edges. As an example, if GP2e extends beyond the upper edge of GP2, it extends beyond the upper edge of GP1. In another example, if GP2e extends beyond the upper edge and one lateral edge of GP2, it extends beyond the upper edge and the same lateral edge of GP1.
Typically, GP2e extends up to a distance of at least 5 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm or even 10 cm beyond the spacer assembly. This distance is adapted, for example made larger for larger glass panes, as a larger GP2e may provide a larger heat exchange area.

Glass panes

The term "glass" in the present invention is understood to mean any type of mineral or organic glasses known to the skilled in the art. The mineral glasses may be soda-lime-silicate glass, alumino-silicate glass, alkali-free glass, boro-silicate glass, crystalline and polycrystalline glasses. Preferably, the mineral glass is a soda-lime-silicate glass, alumino-silicate glass or boro-silicate glass. More preferably and for reasons of lower production costs, the mineral glass is a soda-lime-silicate glass.

Advantageously, the expression soda-lime-silicate glass in the present invention is used in a broad sense and relates to any mineral glass which comprises the following components in weight percentage, expressed with respect to the total weight of mineral glass (Comp. A). More preferably, the mineral glass composition (Comp. B) is a soda-lime-silicate-type glass with a base glass matrix of the composition comprising the following components in weight percentage, expressed with respect to the total weight of mineral glass.

	Comp. A	Comp. B
SiO₂	40 - 78%	60 - 78 wt%
Al₂O₃	0 - 18%	0 - 8 wt%, pref 0 - 6 wt%
B₂O₃	0 - 18%	0 - 4 wt%, pref 0 - 1 wt%
Na₂O	0 - 20%	5 - 20 wt%, pref 10 - 20 wt%
CaO	0 - 15%	0 - 15 wt%, pref 5 - 15 wt%
MgO	0 - 10%	0 - 10 wt%, pref 0 - 8 wt%
K₂O	0 - 10%	0 - 10 wt%
BaO	0 - 5%	0 - 5 wt%, pref 0 - 1 wt%.

Other advantageous glass compositions for the mineral glass of the present invention, comprise the following components in weight percentage, expressed with respect to the total weight of mineral glass:

Comp. C	Comp. D	Comp. E
65 ≤ SiO₂ ≤ 78 wt%	60 ≤ SiO₂ ≤ 78 %	65 ≤ SiO₂ ≤ 78 wt%
5 ≤ Na₂O ≤ 20 wt%	5 ≤ Na₂O ≤ 20 %	5 ≤ Na₂O ≤ 20 wt%
0 ≤ K₂O < 5 wt%	0.9 < K₂O ≤ 12 %	1 ≤ K₂O < 8 wt%
1 ≤ Al₂O₃ < 6 wt%, pref 3 < Al₂O₃ ≤ 5 %	4.9 ≤ Al₂O₃ ≤ 8 %	1 ≤ Al₂O₃ < 6 wt%
0 ≤ CaO < 4.5 wt%	0.4 < CaO < 2 %	2 ≤ CaO < 10 wt%
4 ≤ MgO ≤ 12 wt%	4 < MgO ≤ 12 %	0 ≤ MgO ≤ 8 wt%
(MgO/(MgO+CaO)) ≥ 0.5, pref 0.88 ≤ [MgO/(MgO+CaO)] < 1.		K₂O/(K₂O+Na₂O) : 0.1 - 0.7

According to certain embodiments of the invention, the mineral glass may have a composition comprising a total iron (expressed in terms of Fe₂O₃) content ranging from 0.002 to 0.06 weight%. A total iron (expressed in the form of Fe₂O₃) content of less than or equal to 0.06 weight% makes it possible to obtain a mineral glass with almost no visible coloration. Preferably, the composition comprises a total iron (expressed in the form of Fe₂O₃) content ranging from 0.002 to 0.04 weight%. More preferably, the composition comprises a total iron (expressed in the form of Fe₂O₃) content ranging from 0.002 to 0.020 weight%. Advantageously, for extra-clear mineral glass, the composition comprises a total iron (expressed in the form of Fe₂O₃) content ranging from 0.002 to 0.015 weight% for the lowest visible light absorption.
Glass sheets of mineral glass can be obtained by the known methods such as a floating process, a drawing process, a rolling process or any other process known to manufacture a glass sheet starting from a molten glass composition.
For GP2 having a higher energetic absorptance, the mineral glass can be a tinted mineral glass which has an energetic absorption higher than normal clear glass. In particular, the tinted mineral glass is composed of a soda-lime -silicate glass comprising the aforesaid components and an added coloring agent. Some examples of commercial tinted mineral glasses are Planibel Bronze, Planibel Dark Blue, Planibel Dark Grey, Planibel Green, Planibel Grey, Planibel Linea Azzurra, Planibel Privablue soda-lime glass ranges commercialized by AGC Glass Europe.
Organic glasses are typically transparent thermoplastic polymers having a Young's modulus of at least 0.5 GPa and a glass transition temperature of at least 70°C. The term "transparent" denotes a property illustrating the average LT (light transmittance) of visible light transmitted through a material in the visible spectrum of at least 1%. Preferably, transparent relates to a LT of at least 10%, more preferably a LT of at least 50%, most preferably a LT of at least 70%. Light transmittance is the percentage of incident light flux, illuminant D65/2°, transmitted by the material. The glass transition temperature is a well-known quantity that can be measured according to methods known by the skilled person such as for instance according to ISO 11357-2. The Young's modulus is preferably at least 1 GPa, more preferably at least 1.5 GPa. The Young's modulus is also a well-known quantity that can be measured according to methods known by the skilled person such as for instance according to ASTM D 638 and D 618 (Procedure A or B) in the case of polymers. The organic glasses are well-known by the skilled in the art and some non-exhaustive examples of suitable polymers comprise polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate and poly(methyl methacrylate). The most widely used as organic glasses are typically polycarbonate and poly(methyl methacrylate).
Glass sheets of organic glass may be obtained by any method known by the skilled in the art.
The organic glass may also be a tinted organic glass obtained by adding a coloring agent to the polymer and increasing its energetic absorptance. Example of coloring agents are dyes or pigments. These additives selectively absorb certain wavelengths of solar radiation, converting them into heat.
The glass panes in the present invention may be selected from single glass sheets or laminates of two glass sheets assembled by a polymer interlayer.
The polymer interlayer that may be used in the present invention typically comprises a material selected from the group consisting ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyisobutylene (PIB), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chlorides (PVC), polyesters, copolyesters, polyacetals, cyclo olefin polymers (COP), ionomer and/or an ultraviolet activated adhesive, and others known in the art of manufacturing glass laminates. Blended materials using any compatible combination of these materials can be suitable as well. Typically, polymer interlayers suitable to laminate mineral glass sheets comprise a thermoplastic material selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and polyvinyl butyral, more preferably polyvinyl butyral. The polymer interlayer is also designated as a "bonding interlayer" since the polymer interlayer and the glass pane form a bond that results in adhesion between the glass pane and the polymer interlayer. Typical thicknesses for polymer interlayers are 0.3 mm to 3.5 mm, preferably 0.75 mm to 1.75 mm. Traditional, commercially available polymer interlayers are polyvinyl butyral (PVB) layers of 0.38 mm and 0.76mm, 1.52 mm, 2.28 mm and 3.04mm. To achieve the desired thickness, one or more of those films can be used.
Polymer interlayers having enhanced energetic absorptance also exist. Such polymer interlayers are well-known by the skilled in the art as solar control interlayers, some non-exhaustive examples of which are solar control ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer or polyvinyl butyral, preferably a solar control polyvinyl butyral.

Energetic Absorptance

The glass panes are characterized by a solar direct absorptance as defined in EN410 and is herein referred to as energetic absorptance. The energetic absorptance of GP2 designated as AE2, is greater than the energetic absorptance of GP1 designated as AE1 (AE2 > AE1).
AE2, the energetic absorptance of GP2, is preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 30%; typically no more than 60%. In the embodiment wherein the first space is the exterior space, AE1, the energetic absorptance of GP1, is thus preferably at most 20%, more preferably at most 15% so that a significant amount of energy remains available for absorption by GP2.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, AE2 is equal to or greater than 10% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.1 AE1), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE1 (AE2 > 1.15 AE1), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.2 AE1), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.3 AE1). In a preferred embodiment, GP2 is selected from a single tinted mineral glass sheet and/or a laminate of two mineral glass sheets assembled by a polymer interlayer. Said polymer interlayer may be a solar controlled interlayer. GP2 may also comprise pre-stressed glass sheet(s) that may optionally be tinted. GP2 may alternatively be a double glazing with an internal volume filled with water, aqueous or solvent solutions or gels that are transparent while also having the ability to absorb solar energy and conduct heat.
In another preferred embodiment, GP1 is a single mineral glass sheet such as a soda-lime-silica glass sheet, alumino-silicate glass sheet or boro-silicate glass sheet. Preferably, GP1 is a soda-lime-silica glass sheet.
In yet another preferred embodiment, GP1 is a soda-lime-silica glass sheet and GP2 is selected from a single tinted mineral glass sheet and a laminate of two mineral glass sheets assembled by a polymer interlayer. Said polymer interlayer may be a solar controlled interlayer.

Double Glazing

The glazed assembly comprises a glazing unit with a first and a second glass pane designated respectively as GP1 and GP2. Each of GP1 and GP2 has a first face and a second face designated as F11 and F12 for GP1 and F21 and F22 for GP2, and lateral faces defining the thickness of the glass panes. GP1 and GP2 may have the same or different dimensions. In the glazed assembly of the invention, face F11 is oriented towards Sp1, face F12 and face F21 are in contact with the first internal volume and face F22 is oriented towards Sp2. "Oriented towards" indicates an orientation of a pane face towards a given space and does not imply a contact with that space. "In contact with" means that is the objects are partially or totally in contact with each other. The glass panes have also edge zones herein designated as edges, which are the peripheral zones of the glass panes. They have an upper and a bottom edge which are respectively the edges configured to be above and below the other edges when the glazing is installed in a building and they have lateral edges connecting the upper and bottom edges. The glass panes have typically an upper edge, a bottom edge and 2 lateral edges. Generally, the glass panes are rectangular or square and have 2 main faces, 4 lateral faces, an upper edge, a bottom edge and 2 lateral edges.
The glazing unit comprises further a first spacer assembly that typically comprises a first spacer and at least one sealing barrier. The spacer is made of any material known by the skilled person such as metal, polymer, ceramic, glass, a composite material reinforced by glass fibers or a mix of several of these materials. Use of warm-edge spacers, often made of polymer reinforced with a metallic foil, are advantageous to reduce thermal fluxes at the periphery of the glass panes. The spacer can be solid or hollow. Hollow spacers are able to receive drying materials also designated as desiccants. When the spacer is solid, for instance made of polymer, the desiccative material may be incorporated into the polymer matrix. The spacer has typically a thickness ranging from 4 to 32 mm. In standard glazing units, the thickness ranges from 9 to 18 mm.
The spacer is hold between the glass panes typically by means of at least one sealing barrier consisting of a seal located at each interface between the spacer and the glass panes. This first sealing barrier is typically made of materials selected from polyisobutylene, silicone, acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, and mixtures or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, an additional sealing barrier may be present at the interface between on one hand the spacer and the first sealing barrier and on the other hand the exterior of the glazing unit. This second sealing barrier is typically made of materials selected from polyisobutylene, silicone, polysulfide, polyurethane or mixtures or combinations thereof. Generally the spacer assembly consists either of a spacer and first sealing barrier or of a spacer, a first and a second sealing barrier.
The spacer assembly hermetically couples GP1 and GP2 and maintains them at a certain distance from each other. The spacer assembly, GP1 and GP2 thus define an internal volume hermetically sealed and typically filled with an insulating gas which may be selected from air, dry air, argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), carbon dioxide or a combination thereof. Said gas or gas mixtures are effective for enhancing thermal insulating performances and/or may be used to reduce sound transmission. Preferably the gas within the internal volume comprises at least 50% Ar or Kr as such noble gases considerably improve insulation properties.

Triple Glazing

The glazing unit of the glazed assembly of the present invention can comprise further a third glass pane, GP3, having a first face (F31), a second face (F32), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges. GP3 has lateral faces defining the thickness of the glass pane. Generally, GP3 is rectangular or square and has 2 main faces, 4 lateral faces, an upper edge, a bottom edge and 2 lateral edges. GP3 has an energetic absorptance, AE3. GP1, GP2 and GP3 may have the same or different dimensions.
In one embodiment, GP3 is positioned next to GP1 so that a second spacer assembly is positioned between the first face of the first glass pane (F11) and the second face of the third glass pane (F32), over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance therebetween and hermetically coupling the first and third glass panes; and defining a second internal volume.
In a preferred embodiment, the second spacer assembly is positioned between the second face of the second glass pane (F22) and the first face of the third glass pane (F31), over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance therebetween and hermetically coupling the second and third glass panes; and defining a second internal volume. As illustrated in Figure 2, it is further preferred that GP1 and GP3 have the same dimensions and GP2e can extends beyond the spacer assembly and both upper edges of GP1 and GP3.
The spacer of the first spacer assembly and the spacer of the second spacer assembly may have the same or preferably different thicknesses.
The part of the second glass pane extending beyond the spacer assembly in at least one edge and referred to herein as GP2e, will be positioned on GP2 depending on the size and landscape or portrait configuration of the glazed assembly when used to close an opening within a partition separating a first space from a second space, typically as a window separating the interior from the exterior of a building.
It is contemplated that GP1 and GP3 may have the same or different dimensions and GP2e can extends both on the upper edge and on the bottom edge of GP2. In such configuration,

On the top of the glazed assembly : GP2e on the upper edge of GP2 is aligned with the upper edge of the GP3 and extends beyond the first spacer assembly and the upper edge of GP1; and
On the bottom of the glazed assembly : GP2e on the bottom edge of GP2 is aligned with the bottom edge of the GP1 and extends beyond the second spacer assembly and the bottom edge of GP3.

The second spacer assembly may be composed of the same elements as the first spacer assembly or may be different, as defined supra. The second internal volume can be filled with an insulating gas or gas combination, as defined supra, which may have the same composition as in the first internal volume or a different one.
The energetic absorptance of GP3, AE3, may either be higher, equal or lower than the energetic absorptance of GP1, AE1. AE3 is preferably lower than the energetic absorptance of GP2 (AE2 > AE3). In this preferred last case, GP2 is thus a glass pane having a higher energetic absorptance than both GP1 and GP3. Even more preferably, the energetic absorptance of GP2, AE2, is equal to or greater than 10% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.1 AE3), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.15 AE3), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE3 (AE2 > 1.2 AE3), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE3 (AE2 > 1.3 AE3).
GP3 may be a single glass sheet or a laminate of two glass sheets assembled by a polymer interlayer as described supra. GP3 is preferably a single mineral glass sheet such as a soda-lime-silica glass sheet, alumino-silicate glass sheet or boro-silicate glass sheet. More preferably, GP3 is a soda-lime-silica glass sheet. In this more preferred embodiment, GP1 and GP3 are preferably soda-lime-silica glass sheets and GP2 is preferably selected from a single tinted mineral glass sheet and a laminate of two mineral glass sheets assembled by a polymer interlayer. Said polymer interlayer may be a solar controlled interlayer.
In this more preferred embodiment wherein the glazing unit is a triple glazing and wherein GP2 is positioned between GP1 and GP3, the thermo-electric element of the first thermo-electric module is preferably coupled to GP2e on F21 and even more preferably a thermo-electric element of a second thermo-electric module is coupled to GP2e on F22. It can be also contemplated that a first thermo-electric module is indeed coupled to GP2e on F21 and a heat transfer means is coupled to GP2e on F22 and/or on lateral face of GP2 defining its thickness.
As described above different configurations of the GP2e are possible.
In one preferred configuration, GP2e extends beyond the first spacer assembly on at least one edge of GP2 - preferably on at least the upper edge of GP2, and beyond the corresponding at least one edge of GP1 so that GP2e protrudes over GP1 on at least that edge and over F21 of GP2. GP2e is thus exposed to Sp1. In this configuration, the thermo-electric element of the thermo-electric module is coupled to F21 of GP2e. Preferably, GP2e extends as well beyond the second spacer assembly on at least one edge of GP2 - preferably on at least the upper edge of GP2, and beyond the corresponding at least one edge of GP3 so that GP2e protrudes over GP3 on at least that edge and over F22 of GP2e. Preferably, the thermo-electric element of a second thermoelectric module is coupled to F22 of GP2e. GP2e is thus exposed to Sp2. This configuration is illustrated in Figure 2.
It is also contemplated that in a specific configuration of the glazed assembly of the present invention as discussed supra, at the top of the glazed assembly : the upper edge GP2 is aligned with the upper edge of GP3, both beyond the corresponding upper edge of GP1. GP2e on the upper edge of the GP2 is then exposed to Sp1 and the thermo-electric element of a first thermo-electric module is coupled to F21 of GP2e. At the bottom of the glazed assembly, the bottom edge of GP2 is aligned with the bottom edge of GP1, both beyond the corresponding bottom edge of GP3. GP2e on the bottom edge of the GP2 is then exposed to Sp2 and the thermo-electric element of a second thermo-electric module is coupled to F22 of GP2e.

Coating

In an embodiment of the invention, at least a part of at least one pane face of the glazing unit comprises a functional coating. That is to say that when the glazing unit comprises two glass panes GP1 and GP2, at least a part of at least one of the first face and/or second face of GP1, and/or GP2 comprises a first functional coating. When the glazing unit comprises three glass panes GP1, GP2 and GP3, at least a part of at least one of the first face and/or second face of GP1, and/or GP2 and/or GP3 comprises a first functional coating. The glazing unit may also comprise several functional coatings on at least part of several glass pane faces.
The functional coatings are infrared (IR) reflecting and/or absorbing coatings, for example solar control coatings or low-emissivity (lowE) insulating coatings. The position and nature of the functional coating may be adapted according to thermal management needs, for example for increased insulating properties in colder regions of for increased solar control needs in hotter regions.
Functional coatings may comprise a transparent conductive oxide or comprise at least one functional, infrared reflecting, layer comprising silver, and include one or more layers, and in many embodiments it may be multilayer coating. Low-emissivity functional coatings for example includes at least one infrared (IR) reflecting layer (e.g., based on silver) sandwiched between at least first and second dielectric layers. Since one example function of low-emissivity coatings is to block certain amounts of IR radiation and prevent the same from reaching the building interior, the solar management coatings may include at least one IR blocking (i.e., IR reflecting and/or absorbing) layer. Example IR blocking layer(s) which may be present in coatings are of or include silver (Ag), nickel-chrome (NiCr), gold (Au), and/or any other suitable material that blocks significant amounts of IR radiation. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that IR blocking layer(s) of lowE coating need not block all IR radiation, but only need to block significant amounts thereof. In certain embodiments, each IR blocking layer of coating is provided between at least a pair of dielectric layers. Example dielectric layers include silicon nitride, titanium oxide, silicon oxynitride, tin oxide, zinc stannate, and/or other types of metal-oxides and/or metal-nitrides. In certain embodiments, in addition to being between a pair of dielectric layers, each IR blocking layer may also be provided between a pair of contact layers of or including a material such as an oxide and/or nitride of nickel-chrome or any other suitable material. Of course, functional coatings herein are not limited to these particular coatings, and any other suitable functional coatings capable of blocking amounts of IR radiation may instead be used. Functional coatings herein may be deposited on glass sheets in any suitable manner, including but not limited to sputtering, vapor deposition, and/or any other suitable technique.
In a preferred embodiment, the glazing unit comprises a functional coating on at least a part of the first face of GP2 (F21) or on at least a part of the second face of GP1 (F12). In order to promote the highest solar energy absorption on GP2, it is preferred that the functional coating is on at least a part of the first face of GP2 (F21). In order to limit the cost production of the coated glass pane while achieving the high absorption of GP2, it is preferred that the functional coating is on at least a part of the second face of GP1 (F12). When the glazing unit comprises three glass panes GP1, GP2 and GP3 with GP2 sandwiched between GP1 and GP3, a second functional coating may be present on at least a part of the second face of GP2 (F22) i.e. both faces of GP2 may be at least partially covered by a functional coating. Producing a glass pane with a functional coating on each face involves additional costly process steps such as cleaning the glass surface before the application of any additional coating not obtained directly on the float glass production line. Hence, alternatively, a second functional coating may be present on at least a part of the first face of GP3 (F31).
The glass panes energetic absorptances in the present invention may be adjusted by the energetic absorptance of a glass sheet composition used, its tint and thickness, by the use of polymer interlayers, and/or also by the choice of a functional coatings deposited on at least one pane face.
According to any of the embodiments or combination of embodiments hereinabove, the light transmittance of the glazing unit is at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%.

THERMO-ELECTRIC MODULE

The glazed assembly further comprises at least one thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element (51), preferably a Peltier functioning element. The thermo-electric element is coupled to the first face of the second glass pane (F21) on the part of the second glass pane that extends beyond the first internal volume, GP2e, as illustrated in Figures 1-5. The Peltier functioning element has one side coupled to the glass pane and one side facing the space within the glazed assembly but outside of the first internal volume.
As commonly understood, a Peltier functioning element is an element that is able to transport heat using the Peltier effect. The Peltier effect is the cooling of one junction and the heating of the other junction when electric current is maintained in a circuit of material consisting of two dissimilar conductors. Hence, the Peltier effect produces inside the Peltier functioning element, a temperature difference between two sides when a current is flowing. One side is called cold and the other side is called hot. Direction of current flow within the conductors ensures the reversibility of the system, the cold side and the hot side can then become the hot side and the cold side respectively. The object to be cooled or heated is brought into contact with the cold or hot side of the Peltier functioning element, while the other side of the Peltier functioning element can be brought into contact with a heat or cold transfer means, or may be coupled to a heat or cold removal device. In the present invention, conduction and radiation are taken advantage of.
In the embodiment wherein the second space, Sp2, is the exterior space, GP2 being the more energetic absorbent glass pane, faces the exterior space when the glazing unit is a double glazing or when the glazing unit is a triple glazing where the third glass pane is facing the first space, Sp1 being the interior space.
In the preferred embodiment wherein the first space, Sp1, is the exterior space, GP2 being the more energetic absorbent glass pane, faces the interior space, Sp2, when the glazing unit is a double glazing or is between the GP1 and GP3 if the glazing unit is a triple glazing configuration. In both embodiments, the inventors have found that solar energy transmitted directly or transmitted through GP1 to GP2, is absorbed by GP2 that heats up. GP2's heat is transferred by conduction to GP2e and to the Peltier functioning element of the thermo-electric module, coupled on GP2e. The direction of the electrical current of the Peltier functioning element can be switched such as manually, and thereby its cold and hot sides are switched correspondingly. The Peltier functioning element may consequently be activated in different positions, depending on high, moderate, low or even no sunlight conditions to set the direction of current flow and therefore determine the hot and cold side of the Peltier functioning element. Therefore, depending on the sunlight contribution in winter or summer seasons, the side of Peltier functioning element in contact with GP2e, can be either a cold side or a hot side and thereby the Peltier functioning element can heat or cool GP2e.
In summer, the Peltier functioning element, having the cold side coupled to GP2e and so promoting the glass heat pump mechanism within GP2, limits the heat contribution of GP2 to the general heating of the building while in winter, the Peltier functioning element, having the hot side coupled to GP2e, amplifies the heat contribution of GP2 to the general heating of the building. In particular, in high sunlight conditions (during the summer), GP2 can achieve a temperature of at least 50°C or even from 80°C to 120°C and the Peltier functioning element aims at extracting the heat of GP2 and contribute to its dissipation towards the exterior space. On the other hand, in moderate or low sunlight conditions (during the winter), GP2 can achieve a temperature lower than 50°C or even lower than 40°C during cloudy days, and the Peltier functioning element aims at extracting the heat of GP2 even if lower than in summer, and contributes to the dissipation of heat towards the interior space.
In order to provide the optimal use of the heating extraction and dissipation mechanism towards exterior space in summer and towards interior space in winter via the glazed assembly of the present invention, the thermo-electric module may be coupled to a temperature regulation device. The temperature regulation device sets the direction of current flow and therefore fix the orientation of the cold and hot sides of the Peltier functioning element. The glazed assembly can further comprise a temperature sensor located on at least one edge(s) of GP2 as part of the temperature regulation device.
In summer, GP2 having the higher energetic absorptance, absorbs more solar energy and heats up. Heat is conducted through the glass pane to GP2e, i.e. its part extending beyond the spacer assembly. The Peltier functioning element located on GP2e, has been set up to provide its cold side in contact with GP2e. Therefore, the Peltier functioning element by cooling GP2e part amplifies the glass heat pump mechanism within the GP2. Indeed, the heat absorbed by GP2 is transferred by conduction to GP2e and the Peltier functioning element of the thermo-electric module by cooling the GP2e part amplifies this heat conduction mechanism and thereby reduces the heat contribution of GP2 to the overall heating of the building. Hence, the glazed assembly of the present invention by combining a high absorbing glass pane with a thermo-electric module, can contribute to the thermal management of the building, in particular can provide solar control performance.
In winter, in moderate or low sunlight conditions, GP2 absorbs more solar energy than GP1 and heats up - even if in a lesser extent than in summer. In contrast to the summer conditions, the Peltier functioning element located on GP2e, has been set up to provide its hot side in contact with GP2e. Therefore, the Peltier functioning element heats up GP2e thereby increases the heat contribution of GP2 to the overall heating of the building. Hence, the glazed assembly of the present invention by combining a high absorbing glass pane with a thermo-electric module, can contribute to the thermal management of the building, in particular can provide thermal insulation performance.
The glazed assembly can comprise more than one thermo-electric modules located at different positions of the glazed assembly as long as there is at least one thermo-electric element coupled to GP2e, preferably on the first face of GP2 that extends beyond the spacer assembly. The thermo-electric module comprises a thermo-electric element, preferably a Peltier functioning element. The coupling of Peltier functioning element to GP2e may for instance be done with thermally conductive adhesive materials, such as for example glues or double-sided adhesives. Such adhesive materials improve thermal conduction at the coupling zone with GP2e. The thermal conduction at the coupling zone can further be improved by a conductive layer deposited on GP2e, for instance a copper coating. The thermo-electric module can comprise further two or more Peltier functioning elements, in order to amplify or limit the heat contribution of GP2 to the heating of the space. The thermo-electric module can have different sizes and can extend up to the full length of GP2e.
In the embodiment wherein the glazing unit is a triple glazing, the glazed assembly will preferably further comprise a second thermo-electric module coupled to the face of the second glass pane on GP2e that faces Sp2 (F22); such as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4.
In summer, in high sunlight conditions, in such triple glazing configuration, the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module located at the first face (F21) of GP2 on GP2e, has been set up to provide its cold side in contact with GP2e. The Peltier functioning element of the second thermo-electric module located at the second face (F22) of GP2 on GP2e, is switched off. As discussed above, in such configuration, the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module, by cooling GP2e part, amplifies the glass heat pump mechanism and thereby reduces the heat contribution of GP2 to the overall heating of the building. In particular, in intensive sunlight conditions, when the external temperatures are very hot, it is advantageous to further promote cold dissipation towards Sp2, the interior space. The Peltier functioning element of the second thermo-electric module has been activated to provide its cold side exposed to the interior space and its hot side coupled to GP2e while maintaining the glass heat pump mechanism operated with the first thermo-electric module. In this configuration, the first and second thermo-electric modules are functioning in a tandem mode and reduces heat contribution of GP2 by providing heat towards Sp1, the exterior space, while providing cold towards Sp2, the interior space, and thereby decreases the building cooling requirements.
In winter, in moderate or low sunlight conditions, in such triple glazing configuration, the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module located at the first face (F21) of GP2 on GP2e, is switched off. The Peltier functioning element of the second thermo-electric module located at the second face (F22) of GP2 on GP2e, has been set up to provide its cold side coupled to GP2e and amplifies the glass heat pump mechanism as discussed supra. The other side of the Peltier functioning element being the hot, heat is dissipated towards Sp2, the interior space and then this mechanism amplifies the heat contribution of GP2 to the general heating of the building. In particular, when the day is cloudy or at night, times during which low or none sunlight heat is absorbed by GP2, it is advantageous that the first and second thermo-electric modules function in a tandem mode : the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module has been activated to provide its cold side exposed to the exterior space and its hot side coupled to GP2e in order to contribute or even to boost the functioning of the second thermo-electric module. This means that the heat dissipation from the second thermo-electric module towards Sp2, the interior space, is promoted. In this configuration, the first and second thermo-electric modules provide heat towards the interior space and thereby decreases the building heating requirements.
Electricity is required for the Peltier element to function. Direction of current flow ensures the reversibility of the cold and hot side of the Peltier functioning element. Electricity supply can be brought by a regular external source to the glazing unit, by a photovoltaic solar cell module that forms part of the glazing unit and/or by a Seebeck functioning element. Preferably, the electricity supply is brought by a Seebeck functioning element and/or a photovoltaic module thereby rendering the glazing autonomous. More preferably the electricity supply is brought by a Seebeck functioning element, being preferably located within the thermo-electric module.
When the electricity supply is provided by a photovoltaic solar cell module, it is located on the face of the glazed assembly that when positioned within a partition, faces the exterior space. The photovoltaic solar cell module can be positioned as a strip along one edge of the glass pane facing the exterior space, preferably in close proximity to the thermo-electric module, typically GP1 when Sp1 is the exterior space. When a ventilation means is provided within the glazed assembly, it is preferred that the photovoltaic solar cell module is located on the ventilation cap to maximize the sun light reaching GP2 and thereby the absorption of heat by GP2.
The photovoltaic module can be further coupled to an energy storage device, such as a battery, which is particularly advantageous in summer conditions where the solar energy is more prominent than in winter conditions.
The present invention comprises the following embodiments :

(a) GP2e extends beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge and/or at least one of the lateral edges of GP2, and thermo-electric module(s) is/are coupled to GP2e on the corresponding edge(s) of GP2.
(b) GP2e extends beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge and/or at least one of the lateral edges of GP2 and beyond the corresponding edge(s) of GP1 and thermo-electric module(s) is/are coupled to GP2e on the corresponding edge(s) of GP2.
(c) GP2e extends beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge and/or on the bottom edge of GP2 and thermo-electric module(s) is/are coupled to GP2e on the corresponding edge(s) of GP2.
(d) GP2e extends beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge and/or on the bottom edge of GP2 and beyond the corresponding edge(s) of GP1 and thermo-electric module(s) is/are coupled to GP2e on the corresponding edge(s) of GP2.

In embodiments (a), (b), (c) and (d), GP2e may:

extend beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on said upper edge, or
extend beyond the spacer assembly on one lateral edge of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on said lateral edge, or

extend beyond the spacer assembly on more than one lateral edges of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on each of said lateral edge, or
extend beyond the spacer assembly on the bottom edge of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on said bottom edge, or
extend beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge of GP2 and on one or more lateral edges of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on said upper edge and on said one or more lateral edge(s).
extend beyond the spacer assembly on the upper edge of GP2 and on bottom edge of GP2 with one thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e on said upper edge and on said bottom edge.

Depending on the size of the glazed assembly as well as on its orientation versus the exterior and interior spaces, different positions of the thermo-electric module coupled on GP2 can be preferred. For example, when the glazed assembly is installed in landscape configuration (i.e. larger than higher), it is advantageous that thermoelectric module(s) is/are at least coupled on the upper edge and/or on the lateral edges of GP2e. When the glazed assembly is installed in portrait configuration (i.e. higher than larger), it is advantageous that thermoelectric module(s) is/are at least coupled on the upper edge and/or on the bottom edge of GP2e.

Heat Transfer Means

In a preferred embodiment, the thermo-electric module of the glazed assembly also comprises at least one heat transfer means which is coupled to the thermo-electric element. Heat transfer means aim at collecting and extracting heat or cold dissipated from the opposite face of the Peltier functioning element and transferring this heat or cold to the fluid surrounding them. The term "opposite" in the present invention is commonly understood to mean the face of the Peltier functioning element that is not coupled to GP2e. The term "fluid" in the present invention is commonly understood to mean material media including gases and liquids. The fluid is preferably a gas and preferably air, more preferably atmospheric air, which can equivalently be referred to as ambient air.
Heat transfer means may include a plurality of heat exchange fins. Heat exchange fins enlarge the heat transfer surface thus increasing heat or cold transfer efficiency from the Peltier functioning element to the surrounding fluid. The contact between the Peltier functioning element and the heat transfer means has to conduct heat or cold dissipated from the Peltier functioning element as much as possible by any suitable means. The coupling of Peltier functioning element to heat transfer means may for instance be done with thermally conductive adhesive materials, such as for example glues or double-sided adhesives to improve thermal conduction. The thermal conduction can further be improved by a conductive layer such as a copper coating. The heat transfer means is coupled to the Peltier functioning element and may optionally extend beyond GP2e in the direction opposite to the internal volume.

VENTILATION MEANS

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the glazed assembly further comprises at least one ventilation means comprising a ventilation cap defining a ventilation path. The ventilation cap encompasses the at least one thermo-electric module and is coupled to at least one of the glass panes of the glazing unit, preferably to both GP1 and GP2 when the glass unit is a double glazing or GP1 and GP3, when the glass unit is a triple glazing. Heat transfer means of the thermo-electric module are preferably positioned in the ventilation path, thereby increasing the heat exchange rate between the thermo-electric element coupled to GP2e and the surrounding air. The ventilation means manages the dissipation of the heat generated by the thermo-electric module towards exterior space during high sunlight conditions or towards interior space during moderate or low sun light conditions.
In a more preferred embodiment and when two thermo-electric modules are functioning in tandem mode during intense sunlight (very hot exterior temperature conditions), the ventilation means manages the dissipation of the heat generated by the first thermo-electric module towards exterior space and dissipation of the cold generated by the second thermo-electric module towards interior space. In another more preferred embodiment and when two thermo-electric modules are functioning in tandem mode during cloudy days or at night (cold exterior temperature conditions), the ventilation means manages the dissipation of the heat generated by the second thermo-electric module towards interior space and dissipation of the cold generated by the first thermo-electric module towards exterior space. The ventilation means contributes advantageously to the thermal management of the building by limiting excessive cooling of the interior space in hot exterior temperatures conditions and by limiting excessive heating of the interior space in cold exterior temperatures conditions.
The ventilation means is configured to allow a fluid continuum between Sp1 and the inside of the ventilation means. However, the ventilation means does not fluidly connect Sp1 to Sp2. The ventilation cap of the ventilation means comprises at least two ventilation holes defining the ventilation path configured to allow, air passage or air circulation to and/or from Sp1 to the thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e, via the heat transfer means, if present.
In the embodiment of the present invention wherein the glazing unit comprises a third glass pane, the above described ventilation means is similar but the ventilation cap (71), couples to GP3 to GP1. In this embodiment, the ventilation means can be divided into 2 sections that determine a first ventilation cap coupled to GP2e and the first spacer assembly thereby defining a first ventilation path and a second ventilation cap coupled to GP2e and the second spacer assembly thereby defining a second ventilation path.
In the embodiment wherein the glazed assembly comprises a second thermo-electric module coupled to the second face of GP2e, the second ventilation cap comprises the second thermo-electric module.
In the embodiment wherein the ventilation means is divided into 2 sections: (1) The first ventilation cap comprises at least two first ventilation holes fluidly connecting the first ventilation path to Sp1 but not to Sp2. The first ventilation cap defines the first ventilation path configured to allow, air passage or air circulation to and/or from Sp1 to the first thermo-electric module coupled to the first face of GP2e. (2) The second ventilation cap comprises at least two second ventilation holes fluidly connecting the second ventilation path to Sp2 but not to Sp1. The second ventilation cap defines a second ventilation path configured to allow, air passage or air circulation to and/or from Sp2 to the second thermo-electric module coupled to the second face of GP2e. In all embodiments, there is no fluid connection between the first ventilation path and the second ventilation path.
The first and second ventilation caps may form a joined cap or separate caps. They remain configured to allow separate air passages to and/or from the first or second face of GP2e to Sp1 or Sp2. Sp1 and Sp2 are still not fluidly connected. In an embodiment of the present invention, the first and second ventilation caps are configured to jointly form a frame extending over the whole perimeter of GP1, GP2 and GP3, and in particular contacting the first face of GP1 and the second face of GP3. The frame typically comprises metal, wood, polymer, and/or composite material.
The ventilation means can further comprise sealing elements configured to separate the first and second ventilation paths, that is, the air circulating between the first face of GP2e and Sp1, is separated from air circulating between the second face of GP2e and Sp2.
In particular, the ventilation cap may comprise a plurality of ventilation holes. Each ventilation hole may be configured to allow bi-directional airflow. Each bi-directional ventilation hole is thus configured to allow airflow from Sp1 or Sp2 towards the first or second face of GP2e.
In particular, the two ventilation holes opening to Sp1 or Sp2 can be defined as inlet configured to allow air flow from Sp1 or Sp2 towards the first or second face of GP2e respectively, and outlet configured to allow air flow from the first or second face of GP2e towards Sp1 or Sp2 respectively. Ventilation paths are advantageously configured to fluidly connect an inlet, to the thermo-electric module coupled to GP2e to an outlet.
Ventilation holes may be shaped so as to promote air flow. Bi-directional holes may extend in a vertical direction, thus configured to allow air inflow near the lower part and air outflow near the upper part of the ventilation holes. In an advantageous embodiment, outlets and inlets may be slit shaped. In particular they may be configured to be horizontally positioned. Typically, the outlets are positioned above the inlets. In such a configuration, air may circulate by natural convection. Inlets opening to Sp1 are preferably configured to allow airflow from Sp1 towards the Peltier functioning element coupled to the first face of GP2e, preferably towards the heat transfer means coupled thereto. Outlets opening to Sp1 are preferably configured to allow airflow from the Peltier functioning element coupled to first face of GP2e, preferably from the heat transfer means coupled thereto towards Sp1.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the ventilation means comprise one or more fans. Such fans, generally electrically operated, may further increase heat dissipation and/or increase convection. The ventilation means can further comprises moveable shutters configured to at least partly open and close one or more of ventilation holes opening to Sp1 or Sp2.
The ventilation cap may typically comprise metal, wood, polymer, and/or composite material. The ventilation cap(s) can be sealingly coupled to the respective glass panes and assembly spacer(s). Such coupling may be obtained in an abutting manner and/or in an overlapping manner, for example with a sealing adhesive provided in between coupled parts. It is also contemplated that the ventilation means is incorporated into the frame rather than be an additional element of the glazed assembly.

WINDOW

The present invention further concerns a partition of a stationary or a mobile object configured to separate a first space being preferably the exterior space and second space being preferable the interior space, said partition comprising an opening in which a glazed assembly according to any of the embodiments or combination of embodiments hereinabove is positioned.
The stationary object may typically be a building and the mobile object may be for instance a vehicle, a rapid transit system such as a train, tram or the like. The interior space is the space inside the object and the exterior space is the space outside the object.
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention further covers a window that comprises the glazed assembly of the present invention, a fixed frame, and sealing elements mounted on the fixed frame and/or on the glazing unit for sealingly closing the opening of the partition when the glazed assembly is in the closed position. Windows, whether openable such as casement windows, tilting windows and glass doors as well as non-openable windows, typically comprise a glazed assembly coupled to a fixed frame mounted in an opening of a wall or similar. The glazed assembly can be a framed or a frameless glazed assembly.

Detailed description of the figures

As illustrated in Figure 1, the glazed assembly (A) is configurated to close an opening with a partition separating a first space, Sp1 from a second space, Sp2. The glazing unit is a double glazing unit and comprises a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11) and a second face (F12); a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face (F21) and second face (F22); and a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of GP1 and the first face of GP2, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between. The first spacer assembly (31), the second face of GP1 (F12) and the first face of GP2 (F21) define a first internal volume (41). The first glass pane, GP1, faces Sp1. In this Figure 1, GP2 extends beyond the first spacer assembly (31) on its upper edge to create GP2e. GP1 and GP2 having the same size and are aligned at their upper edge. Hence, GP1 also extends beyond the spacer assembly on its upper edge. A thermo-electric module comprising a thermo-electric element (51) is coupled to GP2e.
In Figure 2, the glazed assembly (A) is configurated to close an opening with a partition separating a first space, Sp1 from a second space, Sp2. The glazing unit is a triple glazing unit and comprises a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11) and a second face (F12); a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face (F21) and a second face (F22); and a third glass pane, GP3, having a first face (F31) and a second face (F32). The glazing unit comprises a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of GP1 and the first face of GP2, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between. The first spacer assembly (31), the second face of GP1 (F12) and the first face of GP2 (F21) define an internal volume (41). The glazing unit comprises a second spacer assembly (32) positioned between the second face of GP2 and the first face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between. The second spacer assembly (32), the second face of GP2 (F22) and the first face of GP3 (F31) define a second internal volume (42). The first glass pane, GP1, faces Sp1. In this Figure 2, GP2 extends beyond both first and second spacer assembly (31, 32) on its upper edge to create GP2e. A first thermo-electric module comprising a thermo-electric element (51) and a second thermo-electric module comprising a thermo-electric element (52) are coupled to the first and second face of GP2e respectively.
Figure 3 is a schematic 3D view of a glazed assembly (A) according to a certain embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the glazed assembly (A) separates two spaces Sp1 and Sp2. It comprises a glazing unit with a first glass pane, GP1, having a first and a second faces, F11 and F12, an upper edge, a lower edge and 4 lateral edges. It comprises a second glass pane, GP2, having first and a second faces, F21 and F22, an upper edge, a lower edge and 4 lateral edges. GP1 and GP2 are hermetically coupled by a first spacer assembly (31) and GP1, GP2 and the spacer assembly (31) define a first internal volume not visible on the drawing. Face F11 is oriented towards Sp1. A part of GP2, referred to as GP2e, extends beyond the first spacer assembly (31) on the upper edge of GP2 and beyond the upper edge of GP1. A first thermo-electric module comprising a thermo-electric element (51) and heat transfer means (61) is coupled to GP2e on face F21. The first thermo-electric module further comprises a plurality of heat exchange fins as heat transfer means.
Figure 4 schematically shows the embodiment of Figure 2 in a 3D view, wherein the thermo-electric element of the first and second thermo-electric modules further comprise a heat transfer means (61,62), each coupled to thermo-electric element (51, 52) respectively.
Figure 5 schematically shows, in a 3D view a glazed assembly (A) configurated to close an opening with a partition separating a first space, Sp1 from a second space, Sp2. The glazing unit is a double glazing unit and comprises a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11) and a second face (F12); a second glass pane, GP2, having first face (F21) and a second face (F22); and a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of GP1 and the first face of GP2, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between. The first spacer assembly (31), the second face of GP1 and the first face of GP2 define a first internal volume (41- not visoble). The first glass pane, GP1, faces Sp1. In this Figure 5, GP2 extends beyond the first spacer assembly (31) on one of its lateral edge to create GP2e. A thermo-electric element (51) of a first thermo-electric module is coupled to GP2e. The glazed assembly further comprises heat transfer means (61) coupled to the thermo-electric element (51).
Figure 6 schematically shows in 3D, another embodiment of the present invention wherein a first and a second ventilation caps (71, 72) are coupled for example to a triple glazing unit illustrated in Figure 2 and Figure 4. In the present embodiment, the first and second ventilation caps (71, 72) together form a single cap coupled respectively to the GP1, GP2 and GP3, and to the first and second spacer assemblies (31, 32). In this manner, a first and a second ventilation paths (not shown) are defined within the first and second ventilation caps. With the glazed assembly in a vertical position, outlets opening to Sp1 (81b) are provided above inlets opening to Sp1 (81a), both in the shape of horizontal slits.

Best mode for carrying the present invention

The most preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 2, 4 and 6. The glazed assembly is closing an opening within a partition where, Sp1 is an exterior space and Sp2 is an interior space. The glazing unit is a triple glazing and GP2 extends on its upper edge. The glazed assembly comprises at least 2 thermo-electric modules coupled on each face of GP2e. Heat transfer means are coupled to the each thermo-electric element. First and a second ventilation caps (71, 72) illustrated in Figure 6 are coupled for example to a triple glazing unit illustrated in Figure 2 and Figure 4. The first and a second ventilation caps forms together a single cap defining first and second ventilation paths. Outlets above inlets opening to Sp1 or Sp2 are provided, both in the shape of horizontal slits.
In high sunlight conditions (typically in summer), the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module is configured such that its cold side is in contact with GP2e and its hot side is in fluid contact with Sp1, the exterior space. The heat absorbed by the more absorbent glass pane GP2 and conducted to GP2e is thereby extracted thanks to the cold side of the Peltier functioning element that amplifies the glass heat pump mechanism. The heat provided from the hot side of the Peltier functioning element is transferred to the heat transfer means and then ventilated through the outlets of the first ventilation cap to the exterior space. In this configuration, the Peltier element of the second thermo-electric module is switched off and the inlets and outlets on the second ventilation cap facing the interior space, are closed.
In particular, in intense sunlight conditions, it is advantageous to further promote cold dissipation towards the interior space. In this case, the Peltier functioning element of the second thermo-electric module is activated to provide its cold side exposing to the interior space and its hot side in contact with GP2e while maintaining the glass heat pump mechanism operated with the first thermo-electric module. In this configuration, the first and second thermo-electric modules are functioning in a tandem mode: Heat is ventilated through the outlets of the first ventilation cap to the exterior space. Cold is ventilated through the outlets on the second ventilation cap to the interior space. These embodiments prevents that the heat contribution of GP2 to warm up the interior of building and thereby reduce the need of cooling the building by e.g. air conditioning.
In contrast, in moderate or low sunlight conditions (typically in winter) in the interior space, the Peltier functioning element of the second thermo-electric module is configured such that its cold side is in contact with GP2e and its hot side is in fluid contact with Sp2, the interior space. The heat absorbed by the more absorbent glass pane GP2 and conducted to GP2e is extracted by the Peltier functioning element that amplifies the glass heat pump mechanism and the heat provided from the hot side of the Peltier functioning element is transferred to the heat transfer means and then ventilated through the outlets of the second ventilation cap to the interior space. In this configuration, the Peltier element of the first thermo-electric module is switched off, and the inlets and outlets present on the first ventilation cap facing the exterior space, are closed.
In particular, when the day is cloudy or at night when the heat absorbance of GP2 is limited or even nonexistent, the glass heat pump mechanism is limited or even not operated. In those circumstances, it is further advantageous to promote heat dissipation towards the interior space. In such configuration, the Peltier functioning element of the first thermo-electric module is switched on and is activated to provide its cold side exposing to the exterior space and its hot side in contact with GP2e in order to contribute or even to boost the performance of the second thermo-electric module. In this configuration, the first and second thermo-electric module function in a tandem mode : Cold is ventilated through the outlets of the first ventilation cap to the exterior space and heat is ventilated through the outlets of the second ventilation cap to the interior space. These embodiments promote the heat contribution of GP2 to warm up the building and thereby reduce the need of heating the building.
In all embodiments of the present invention such as described supra, there is no fluid connection between Sp1, typically the exterior space and Sp2, typically the interior space.
In order to provide the optimal use of glass assembly of the present invention and thereby contributing actively to the temperature adjustment within the interior space of the building in all seasons, the thermo-electric module can be coupled to a temperature regulation device to allow the user to set a comfortable temperature to be achieved within the interior space.
The person skilled in the art realizes that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. It is further noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of features, and preferred features, described herein and recited in the claims or in the described embodiments.
It is well understood by persons skilled in the art that, as used herein the terms "a", "an" or "the" means at least "one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless explicitly stated otherwise. As used herein, spatial or directional terms, such as "inner", "outer", "above", "below", "top", "bottom", and the like, relate to the invention as it is shown in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention can assume various alternative orientations and, accordingly, such terms are not to be considered as limiting. Further, all numbers expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, processing parameters, quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and the like, used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical values set forth in the following specification and claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, expression "substantially" mean to within 10%, preferably to within 5%.
Furthermore, the terms first, second and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein. When it is described that a constituent element (e.g., a first constituent element) is "(functionally or communicatively) coupled to" or is "connected to" another constituent element (e.g., a second constituent element), it should be understood that the constituent element may be directly connected to the another constituent element or may be connected to the another constituent element through another constituent element (e.g., a third constituent element).

EXAMPLES

Example 1 : A triple glazing unit is prepared. The first glass pane, GP1, is a 4mm thick clear soda-lime glass sheet bearing a low emissivity functional coating on face F12. The third glass pane, GP3, is a 4mm thick clear soda-lime glass sheet bearing a low emissivity functional coating on F31. The second glass pane, GP2, is a 6mm thick bronze colored tinted soda-lime glass sheet. The first and second internal volumes are filled with a gas comprising 90% Ar. The first internal volume is of 10mm thickness and the second internal volume is of 12mm thickness. Both functional coatings are thermal insulation coatings 'iplus 1.1' commercialized by AGC Glass Europe.
Example 2 : Another triple glazing unit is prepared. The first glass pane, GP1, and the third glass pane, GP3, are 4mm thick clear soda-lime glass sheets both bearing a lowE insulating coating 'iPlus 1.1' on respectively F12 for GP1 and F31 for GP3. The second glass pane, GP2, comprises two extra-clear, or low-iron, 4mm thick soda-lime glass sheets joined by a 0.38mm thick grey PVB polymer interlayer. The first and second internal volumes are filled with a gas comprising 90% Ar. The first internal volume is of 10mm thickness and the second internal volume is of 12mm thickness.
Example 3 : Yet another third triple glazing unit is prepared. GP1 and GP3 are 4mm thick extra-clear, low-iron soda-lime glass sheets, glass sheets bearing no functional coatings. GP2 comprises two clear 4mm thick soda-lime glass sheets joined by a 0.72mm thick clear PVB polymer interlayer. The first and second internal volumes are filled with a gas comprising 90% Ar. The first internal volume is of 10mm thickness and the second internal volume is of 12mm thickness. GP2 bears on F21 the thermal insulation coating 'iplus 1.1'. GP2 further bears on the face F22 a solar control coating, 'Stopray Vision 60' commercialized by AGC Glass Europe.
In all examples 1 to 3, GP2 is sandwiched between GP1 and GP2; GP2e extends by 10cm beyond the first and second spacer assemblies. A first thermo-electric module is coupled on GP2e facing Sp1 (F21) and a second thermo-electric module is coupled on GP2e facing Sp2 (F22), to form the corresponding glazed assemblies.
Comparative examples 1 to 3 are the same corresponding triple glazing units but without the thermo-electric modules. Hence, the heat absorbed by GP2 is not extracted and nor transferred to the thermo-electric modules.
Table 1 below illustrates simulated opto-energetical properties of the examples 1 to 3 in simulated working conditions where a glazed assembly comprising the different triple glazing units of examples 1 to 3, is positioned as a window in a building wherein the first space Sp1 is the exterior space and the second space Sp2 is the interior space.
The solar factor (SF) also designated as the solar heat gain coefficient, measures how readily heat from direct solar energy flows through a glazing. Solar factor is the ratio between incident solar energy transmitted through a glazing, and the total solar energy received by the surface of the glazing facing the exterior space. SF is expressed as a percentage: the higher is the value, the greater the solar energy is transmitted through the glazing, the more solar heat penetrates in the interior and the warmer is the interior space kept. The SF calculation is provided in standard norms such as EN410 or ISO9050. Norm EN410 is typically used for building applications. The solar factor (SF) was calculated by simulation for examples 1 to 3 wherein - for evaluation purposes, all solar energy absorbed by the second glass pane is estimated to be reemitted towards the exterior space providing a theorical lower solar factor (SF) during high or intense sunlight conditions or towards interior space providing a theoretical higher solar factor (SF) during moderate or low sun light conditions.
The U-values and light transmittance (LT) of the examples and comparative examples are not impacted as the glass composition, glass pane thickness, coating, spacers and internal volume of the triple glazing units are identical.

As it can be seen in Table 1 below, the glazed assembly of examples 1 to 3 have a lower solar factor or higher solar factor than their corresponding comparative examples. The lower solar factor is to be understood as the solar energy absorbed by GP2 and extracted and transferred by the thermo-electric module towards the exterior space. The higher solar factor is to be understood as the solar energy absorbed by GP2 and extracted and transferred by the thermo-electric module towards the interior space. By purposively selecting to vent such heat towards exterior space or interior space, the glazed assembly of the present invention, reduces or increases its contribution to the general heating or cooling of the building. For example, during moderate or low sunlight conditions such as in the winter, the glazed assembly contributes to the heating of a building. During high or intensive sunlight conditions such as in summer, the glazed assembly helps to limit the radiative heat of GP2 and therefore excessive cooling of the interior space.

Table 1

	Energetic absorptance AE [%]			LT [%]	SF [%]	U [W/(m².K)]
	First glass pane	Second glass pane	Third glass pane
Example 1	13	32	3	41	28 to 57	0.8
Comparative example 1	13	32	3	41	42	0.8
Example 2	13	30	3	41	29 to 59	0.8
Comparative example 2	13	30	3	41	42	0.8
Example 3	2	34	1	56	28 to 62	0.7
Comparative example 3	2	34	1	56	42	0.7

Wherein the lowest SF values corresponds to 100% of the heat absorbed by GP2 is extracted and re-emitted to the exterior space and wherein the highest SF values corresponds to 100% of the heat absorbed by GP2 is extracted and re-emitted to the interior space.

Ref.#	Feature
A	Glazed assembly
GP1	First glass pane
F11	First face of the first glass pane
F12	Second face of the first glass pane
GP2	Second glass pane
F21	First face of the second glass pane
F22	Second face of the second glass pane
GP2e	Part of GP2 extending beyond the first spacer assembly
GP3	Third glass pane
F31	First face of the third glass pane
F32	Second face of the third glass pane
Sp1	First space
Sp2	Second space
31	First spacer assembly
32	Second spacer assembly
41	First internal volume
42	Second internal volume
51	Thermo-electric element of the first thermo-electric module
52	Thermo-electric element of the second thermo-electric module
61	Heat transfer means of the first thermo-electric module
62	Heat transfer means of the second thermo-electric module
71	First ventilation cap
72	Second ventilation cap
81a	Inlet opening to Sp1
81b	Outlet opening to Sp1

Claims

A glazed assembly (A) configured to close an opening within a partition separating a first space, Sp1, from a second space, Sp2; comprising
a) a glazing unit comprising :
- a first glass pane, GP1, having a first face (F11), a second face (F12), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a first energetic absorptance, AE1;

- a second glass pane, GP2, having a first face (F21), a second face (F22), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges and having a second energetic absorptance, AE2; and

- a first spacer assembly (31) positioned between the second face of the first glass pane and the first face of the second glass pane, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling the first glass pane and the second glass pane; and defining a first internal volume (41);

wherein the first face of GP1 is oriented towards the first space,

wherein a part of the second glass pane extends beyond the spacer assembly in at least one edge, GP2e,

b) at least one thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element (51)
characterized in that :
- the second energetic absorptance is greater than the first energetic absorptance (AE2 > AE1).

- the thermo-electric module is coupled on the part of the second glass pane that extends beyond the first spacer assembly.
A glazed assembly according to the preceding claim 1 wherein the at least one thermo-electric element is coupled to the first face of GP2 and is a Peltier functioning element.
A glazed assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the thermo-electric module further comprises at least one heat transfer means (61) coupled to the at least one thermo-electric element.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein GP2e extends in its upper edge and/or on at least in one of its lateral edges, or GP2e extends in its upper edge and/or on its bottom edge.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein the GP2e, does extend beyond the corresponding at least one edge of the GP1.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein GP2e, does extend by at least 5cm, 7cm, 8cm or even 10cm beyond the first spacer assembly.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein the GP2 is a single tinted mineral glass sheet or a laminate of two mineral glass sheets with a polymer interlayer.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein AE2 is equal to or greater than 10% AE1 (AE2 > 1.1 AE1), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE1 (AE2 > 1.15 AE1), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE1 (AE2 > 1.2 AE1), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE1 (AE2 ≥ 1.3 AE1).
The glazed assembly according to any of the preceding claims wherein the glazing unit further comprises:
- a third glass pane, GP3, having a first face (F31), a second face (F32), an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges, and having an energetic absorptance, AE3,

- a second spacer assembly (32) positioned between :
• the second face of GP2 and the first face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling GP2 and GP3; and defining a second internal volume (42); or

• the first face of GP1 and the second face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling GP1 and GP3; and defining a second internal volume (42).
A glazed assembly according to claim 9 wherein the second spacer assembly (32) is positioned between the second face of GP2 and the first face of GP3, over a perimeter thereof, that maintains a distance there between and hermetically coupling GP2 and GP3; and defining a second internal volume (42).
A glazed assembly according to any one of claims 9 and 10 wherein the AE2, is equal to or greater than 10% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.1 AE3), preferably equal to or greater than 15% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.15 AE3), more preferably equal to or greater than 20% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.2 AE3), most preferably equal to or greater than 30% AE3 (AE2 ≥ 1.3 AE3).
A glazed assembly according to the any one of the preceding claims further comprising a second thermo-electric module being coupled to the face of the second glass pane on GP2e that faces Sp2, said second thermo-electric module comprising at least one thermo-electric element, preferably a Peltier functioning element.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims wherein at least a part at of one pane face of the glazing unit comprises a functional coating.
A glazed assembly according to any one preceding claims further comprising at least one ventilation means comprising at least one ventilation cap (71) defining a ventilation path, said ventilation cap:
- encompasses the at least one thermo-electric module;

- is coupled to at least one of the glass panes of the glazing unit, and

- comprises at least two ventilation holes opening to Sp1 and at least two ventilation holes opening to Sp2; and
wherein the at least one ventilation means does not fluidly connect Sp1 and Sp2.
A glazed assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the thermo-electric module further comprises at least one Seebeck functioning element whereby the Seebeck functioning element provides electricity to the Peltier functioning element.
A glazed assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, having an outer face facing Sp1 wherein Sp1 is an exterior space, further comprising a photovoltaic solar cell module on the outer face, located on ventilation cap and/or on a small part of the first glass pane.
A glazed assembly according to claim 16 wherein the photovoltaic solar cell module is located close to the thermo-electric module.