EP4617468A1

EP4617468A1 - Vacuum insulated glass unit comprising one or more force transferring members

Info

Publication number: EP4617468A1
Application number: EP24163542.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Willibrordus Servatius BOUWENS; Søren Vejling ANDERSEN; Barakat Bokharaie
Original assignee: VKR Holding AS
Current assignee: VKR Holding AS
Priority date: 2024-03-14
Filing date: 2024-03-14
Publication date: 2025-09-17

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a vacuum insulated glass unit (1). The vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a first glass sheet (3a) and a second glass sheet (3b). An insulating, evacuated gap (4) is placed between the first glass sheet (3a) and the second glass sheet (3b). A first edge seal (6) encloses the evacuated gap (4), wherein the first edge seal (6) comprises a first side surface (6a) which faces away from the evacuated gap (4). The first glass sheet (3a) comprises a first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a first projection length (L1). A further glass sheet (3b, 3c) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a second projection length (L2). The vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises one or more force transferring members (8). The one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).

Description

The present disclosure relates to a vacuum insulating glass unit and a device comprising one or more vacuum insulated glass units.

Background

Vacuum insulated glass units (VIG units) provides several advantages. For example, VIG units may provide improve heat insulation performance compared to the amount of material used. VIG unit may e.g. also provide a space saving solution. VIG unit soften comprises two glass sheets, a plurality of support structures placed in a gap between major surfaces of the glass sheets, and an edge seal, such as a solder edge seal, that encloses the gap. The gap is evacuated. US2021270083 discloses a VIG unit comprising a gasket for clamping. EP1835120 A1 and EP4242393A1 discloses roof windows comprising a VIG unit.
The present disclosure may e.g. provide a VIG unit solution that may be more robust, it may provide a VIG unit with reduced carbon footprint, it may provide a VIG unit with appealing aesthetics. Additionally or alternatively, the present disclosure may provide a solution that may be more easy to install in a device. It may additionally or alternatively enable providing a cost efficient and/or more mechanically simple solution.

Summary

The present disclosure relates to a vacuum insulated glass unit. The vacuum insulated glass unit comprises a first glass sheet and a second glass sheet. An insulating, evacuated gap is placed between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet. A plurality of support structures are distributed in the evacuated gap so as to maintain a distance between a first major surface of the first glass sheet facing towards the evacuated gap and a first major surface of the second glass sheet facing towards the evacuated gap. A first edge seal encloses the evacuated gap. The first edge seal comprises a first side surface which faces away from the evacuated gap.
The first glass sheet comprises a first projecting glass sheet portion which projects beyond the first side surface of the first edge seal with a first projection length.
This may e.g. provide an aesthetically advantageous VIG unit and/or a VIG unit with reduced carbon footprint. It may also provide a solution enabling improved mechanical protection.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a further glass sheet of the vacuum insulated glass unit comprises a second projecting glass sheet portion which projects beyond the first side surface of the first edge seal with a second projection length.
This may e.g. provide improved, mechanical protection of the edge region of the VIG unit.
In one or more advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprises one or more force transferring members. Said one or more force transferring members are arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion.
The above may e.g. provide a more robust vacuum insulated glass unit. Stress conditions may occur and/or be present at the first edge seal that encloses the evacuated gap. The first edge seal may in some embodiments e.g. comprise a rigid edge seal, such as a solder edge seal, such as comprising a metal solder material or a glass solder material. The stress conditions at/in the first edge seal may e.g. be caused by sudden impacts at one of the glass sheets, it may be caused by temperature differences between the glass sheets, it may be caused by the specific usage and/or installation scenario of the vacuum insulated glass unit, it may originate from the VIG unit manufacturing and/or the like. Generally the stress conditions may be rather complex as they may be caused by a combination of different conditions and vary dependent of usage and/or the ambient environment.
The present inventors have by tests seen indications that a solution as described above may help to provide a more robust vacuum insulated glass unit because a force transfer may be provided between the first and second projecting glass sheet portions and may hence reduce stress in the edge seal caused by impacts on the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portion. This may e.g. help to protect the first edge seal.
A VIG unit according to embodiments of the present disclosure may additionally or alternatively provide a VIG unit with an integrated protection that protects the edge seal.
The force transferring member(s) may provide a VIG unit with an integrated support that that supports the first projecting glass portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion. Hence these projecting portions transfers forces to each other. This may help to protect the edge seal and/or the projecting glass sheet portions.
The force transferring members may directly connect the first and second projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may strengthen the first projecting glass sheet portion and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion when compared to a scenario where the force transferring member is omitted, when a force F1, such as a strike, hits the projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member may provide vibration damping when the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portions is/are subjected to a direct impact force.
In one or more advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure, said one or more force transferring members may be configured to transfer impact forces subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions. This may e.g. provide increased protection of the edge seal and/or the projecting glass sheet portion subjected to the impact forces. It may additionally or alternatively provide increased structural integrity of the edge region of the VIG unit.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, said one or more force transferring members may be configured to transfer impact forces subjected to the first projecting glass sheet portion to the further projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projecting glass sheet portion may comprise a projecting glass sheet part which projects beyond the edge of the further projecting glass sheet portion with a third projection length.
This may e.g. provide advantages in relation to one or more of reduced carbon foot print, space optimization, such as a more space saving solution, and/or or aesthetical advantages such as a larger exterior surface of the glass unit.
The force transferring member(s) may provide a VIG unit with an integrated step support that that supports the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion and transfers forces acting thereon to the second projecting glass sheet portion. This may help to protect the edge seal and/or may enable providing a longer projection length of the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In other embodiments, the first and second projecting glass sheet portions may not extend beyond each other. For example, edge surfaces of the first and second projecting glass sheet portions may be substantially flush.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length is at least 25 mm, such as at least 45 mm, such as at least 65 mm.
Tests have indicated that a VIG unit where a projecting glass sheet portion comprises a projecting glass sheet part which projects beyond the edge of the further projecting glass sheet portion with the third projection length, this third projection length may be longer and remain strong and resistant to impact forces. This is when compared to a solution where the force transferring member and the further projecting glass sheet portion are omitted, and where the first projecting glass sheet portion extends beyond the first edge seal surface with a projection length.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length may be between 25 mm and 200 mm, such as between 45 mm and 120 mm, such as between 45 mm and 80 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length may be smaller than the third projection length.
This may e.g. provide a solution where carbon foot print is reduced, it may provide a more space saving solution and/or it may provide a solution enabling providing an advantageous and sufficient step support that supports the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length may be at least 5% smaller, such as at least 10% smaller, such as at least 20% smaller, than the third projection length.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length may be between 3% and 95% smaller, such as between 5% and 80% smaller, such as between 10% and 50% smaller, than the third projection length.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length and/or the second projection length may be at least 10 mm, such as at least 20 mm, such as at least 30 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length and/or the second projection length may be at least 40 mm, such as at least 60 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length and/or the second projection length may be between 10 mm and 200 mm, such as between 30 mm and 150 mm, such as between 40 mm and 100 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a space between surfaces, such as major surfaces, of the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion may be filled with a gas such as air or argon.
This may e.g. provide that the projecting glass sheet portions are not subjected to the forces provided due the space being evacuated, And hence, the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portions may be better equipped to withstand impact forces.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, substantially no pressure difference is present between the vacuum insulated glass unit exterior and a space arranged between major surfaces of the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the distance between surfaces, such as major surfaces, of the first and second projecting glass sheet portions in said space may be below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the distance in said space between surfaces, such as major surfaces, of the first and second projecting glass sheet portions may be between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, such as between 0.15 and 0.25 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the space between the projecting glass sheet portions may extend over at least 30%, such as at least 70%, such as at least 95% of the second projection length.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and further glass sheets may be tempered glass sheets, such as thermally tempered glass sheets.
Tempered glass sheets provides increased structural strength. This may allow for larger distance between adjacent support structures in the evacuated gap, it may allow usage of thinner glass sheets and/or it may provide a stronger projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second glass sheet may be said further glass sheet.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprise a lamination glass sheet attached to a major surface of a glass sheet of the vacuum insulated glass unit, such as to a major surface of the second glass sheet, by means of a lamination interlayer.
The lamination interlayer and lamination glass sheet may provide safety and/or a more wear resistant VIG unit. The lamination layer may moreover provide strength and stiffness to the vacuum insulated glass unit The atmospheric pressure of 10 tons/m2 makes the two VIG unit glass panes transfer forces between each other. Hence, the lamination layer may provide stiffness to both the inner VIG glass pane and to the outer VIG glass pane.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the lamination interlayer may comprise or consist of one or more of the following:
ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA),

polyisobutylene (PIB),
polyacetals such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB),
transparent polyurethane (PU),
thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU),
polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
polyesters,
cyclo olefin polymers (COP),
ionomers and/or an ultraviolet activated adhesives.

In some embodiments, PVB, EVA or TPU may be preferred for the lamination interlayer.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the lamination interlayer may have a thickness (extending between the adjacent glass sheet surfaces) above 0.5 mm, such as above 0.7 mm, such as above 1 mm or above 1.4 mm.
In some embodiments, the lamination interlayer 6 has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, such as between 0.6 mm and 3 mm, such as between 0.7 mm and 2 mm or between 1 mm and 3 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the lamination glass sheet may be said further glass sheet. Hence, in that case, the force transferring member may be arranged between the first glass sheet and the lamination glass sheet.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first glass sheet, such as the first projecting glass sheet portion, may project beyond an edge of the lamination glass. Additionally or alternatively, the second glass sheet, such as the second projecting glass sheet portion, may project beyond an edge of the lamination glass.
This may e.g. provide a more cist efficient and/or space saving solution. It may also help to reduce carbon footprint.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may be arranged between a major surface of the first projecting glass sheet portion and a major surface of the second projecting glass sheet portion. The major surface of the first projecting glass sheet portion faces the major surface of the second projecting glass sheet portion.
This may e.g. provide an efficient force transfer. Additionally or alternatively, it may protect the force transferring member. If the force transferring member comprising a sealing strip, such as a water sealing strip for sealing the space between the glass sheets, it may also provide an efficient seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may overlap, such as be is attached to, the edge surface of the first projecting glass sheet portion and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion. Allowing this may e.g. provide a force transferring member that may be more easy and/or cost efficient to manufacture. For example, the force transferring member may hereby be provided after the evacuated gap has been permanently evacuated and sealed. Additionally or alternatively, it may provide a more resistant force transferring member and/or an improved sealing feature in embodiments where the force transferring member also acts as a space seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may overlap, such as be is attached to, the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion beyond which the projecting part projects with the third projection length. In this embodiment, the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion may provide improved protection of the force transferring member and/or the space between the projecting glass sheet portions.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may be arranged proximate the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion beyond which the first projecting glass sheet portion project with the third projection length. This may provide a cost efficient solution and/or enable more simple/easy manufacturing. In some embodiments, it may also provide advantages if the force transferring member comprises an elongated strip which seals the space between the first and second projecting glass sheet portions.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may extend beyond the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion beyond which the first projecting glass sheet portion project with the third projection length.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may be attached to the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion. In some embodiments hereof, this attachment may be obtained/provided by means of adhesion in additional or alternative embodiments, this attachment may be obtained/provided by means of clamping.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may comprises a resilient material, such as a polymer, a silicone material, a rubber material and/or a tape. This may e.g. provide a solution that may provide an advantageous force transferring member. Additionally or alternatively, it may provide a solution that may be advantageous as a space seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may comprises a material that may be extruded, e.g. through a nozzle, to provide the force transferring member.
In additional or alternative embodiments, the force transferring member may comprises one or more of clips or spacers, such as one or more metal or polymer clips or spacers.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure said one or more force transferring members may comprise an elongated strip.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members may comprise an elongated strip, such as a resilient, elongated strip, extending along the length of the edge of the further glass sheet. This may e.g. help to provide advantageous force distribution. Additionally or alternatively, it may help to seal the space between the first and second projecting glass sheet portions.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprise a protection seal which protects the first edge seal, such as wherein the protection seal is arranged opposite the first side surface of the first edge seal.
This may provide a more wear resistant solution. The inventors have seen indication that the first edge seal may be less resistant to some environments. For example, water may potentially be a risk to the integrity of the edge seal, e.g. in combination with changing temperatures. The edge seal may hence provide a VIG unit that may maintain a high structural integrity in a wider range of different environments and/or in more harsh environments.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal is arranged between major surfaces of the first and further glass sheet. In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may be arranged between major surfaces of the first and second glass sheet. This may provide a resistant and/or efficient protection seal solution.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may seal said space between the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion. This may reduce or prevent water and/or dust from entering into the space.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may comprises a water tightening strip of material which encloses the space between the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion.
In some embodiments, the protection seal may comprises a water tightening strip of material which encloses the space between the first projecting glass sheet portion and the second projecting glass sheet portion at least at two, such as at least three, sides of the vacuum insulating glass unit.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may seal said space proximate the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion which is overlapped by the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may seal said space at a location proximate the edges of the second projecting glass sheet portion and/or the edges of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal is provided by one or more of the one or more force transferring members.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may consist of an elongated strip, where said strip provides a force transferring member.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member may consist of an elongated strip, where said elongated strip provides said protection seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may substantially surround the first edge seal around the outer boundary of the edge seal) at the top, bottom, and sides of the vacuum insulated glass unit. This may provide a more resistant, such as a more weather resistant, VIG unit. In some embodiments hereof, the protections seal may comprise, such as provide, the force transferring member. This may provide a more simple and/or space saving solution.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal may be a water tightening seal, such as a protection seal for protecting the first edge seal against water.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more force transferring members and/or said protection seal comprises or consists of an adhesive material.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the first glass sheet and/or second glass sheet has a thickness below 6 mm, such as below 4.5 mm, such as 4 mm or below.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first glass sheet and second glass sheet have substantially the same thickness.
This may e.g. provide a cost efficient solution and/or a solution providing manufacturing advantages. In some embodiments, Borth of the first and second glass sheet may have a thickness below 6 mm, such as below 4.5 mm, such as substantially 4 mm or substantially 3 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first glass sheet and second glass sheet have different thickness.
This may e.g. provide an advantages in relation to reduction and/or handing of thermal deflection of the glass sheets when the first and second glass sheets have different temperatures, and/or in relation to handing stress conditions in the first edge seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the distance between the first major surface of the first glass sheet and the second major surface of the second glass sheet (3b) is below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the distance between the first major surface of the first glass sheet and the second major surface of the second glass sheet may be between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, such as between 0.15 and 0.25 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit comprises a further insulating gap arranged between a major surface of a third glass sheet and a major surface of the second glass sheet which faces away from the evacuated gap, wherein a further edge seal encloses the further insulating gap. This may e.g. provide a VIG unit with an improved heat insulation feature.
The first edge seal may e.g. comprise a rigid edge seal such as a solder edge seal, e.g. a metal solder edge seal or glass solder edge seal. Such edge seals are strong but also provides good heat conduction.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the further insulating gap may overlaps the evacuated gap and the first edge seal. This may e.g. help to reduce issues caused by the heat conductivity of the first edge seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the evacuated gap may overlap the further edge seal. This may e.g. help to reduce issues caused by the heat conductivity of the first edge seal.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the majority of the area of the further insulating gap is arranged opposite the majority of the area of the evacuated gap.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the further insulating gap is a gas filled gap such as a gap containing argon. A gap comprising argon may e.g. help to provide good heat insulation.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion may extend over at least 15%, such as at least 25%, such as at least 35% of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion may extend over less than 55%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43%, of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion extends over between 10% and 60%, such as between 20% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion may substantially correspond to the sum of the length of the part of the first projecting glass sheet portion that is overlapped by the second projecting glass sheet portion, and the length of the part of the first projecting glass sheet portion that projects beyond the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member may be arranged at the outer half, such as the outer quarter, such as the outer fifth, of the of the length of the second projection glass sheet portion that is distal to the first edge seal. This may e.g. provide VIG unit that is more easy to manufacture, may be more cost efficient and/or may provide a VIG unit with lower carbon footprint.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more of the one or more force transferring members may be arranged with a distance from the first surface of the first edge seal that is less than 65%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43% of the of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more of the one or more force transferring members may be arranged with a distance from the first edge seal that is larger than 10%, such as larger than 20%, such as larger than 30% of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more of the one or more force transferring members may be arranged with a distance from the first surface of the first edge seal that is between 10% and 70%, such as between 15% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion may extend over less than 55%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43%, of the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the VIG unit has a height and a width, wherein the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion constitutes at least 1 %, such as at 2%, such as at least 3% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the VIG unit has a height and a width, wherein the projection length of the second projecting glass sheet portion constitutes between 0.5% and 5%, such as between 1% and 4%, such as between 1% and 3% of the height H or width W the VIG unit.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the VIG unit has a height and a width.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion constitutes at least 2%, such as at least 4% such as at least 7% of the height or width of the VIG unit 1.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion constitutes between 1% and 15%, such as between 2% and 10%, such as between 3.5% and 7%, of the height or width of the VIG unit 1.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion constitutes at least 1%, such as at least 2% such as at least 3% or 4% of the height or width of the VIG unit 1.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length of the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion constitutes less than 10%, such as less than 6%, such as less than 4% of the height or width of the VIG unit 1.
The various embodiments described above relating to the length of one or more projecting glass sheet portions relative to the width or height of the VIG unit may e.g. provide a VIG unit with a reduced carbon foot print, a more cost efficient VIG unit, a VIG unit that has a higher structural integrity and/or a VIG unit that provides aesthetic advantages.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprise an enamel layer, wherein said enamel layer covers the length, such as at least 90% of the length, or substantially the full length, of the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portion.
This may provide an aesthetically pleasing solution as the enamel layer may e.g. hide the force transferring member(s) the first edge seal and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the enamel layer may extend into the evacuated gap and/or may extend in between the first glass sheet and the first edge seal. This may e.g. provide an advantageous hiding feature.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the enamel layer may hide one or more of the second projecting glass sheet portion, the one or more force transferring members and/or the first edge seal. The enamel layer may be opaque to visible light.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprise a top side, a bottom side and two sides extending between said top and bottom sides. The top and bottom sides may be substantially parallel. The sides are substantially parallel.
The vacuum insulated glass unit may in embodiments comprise comprises a first set of said first and second projecting glass sheet portions at a first of said top side, bottom side or sides extending between said top and bottom sides. Additionally, the vacuum insulated glass unit may in further embodiments comprise one or more further sets of projecting glass sheet portions at one or more other of said top side, bottom side or sides extending between said top and bottom sides.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the vacuum insulated glass unit may comprises sets of said projecting glass sheet portions at all four of said top side, bottom side and sides extending between said top and bottom sides.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, said one or more force transferring members may be configured to transfer impact forces subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions directly to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the VIG unit may be configured so that impact forces subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions is transferred to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions through the one or more force transferring members.
The present disclosure moreover relates, in a further aspect, to a device, wherein one or more vacuum insulated glass units according to one or more of the embodiments described above is/are installed at said device.
In one or more embodiments of said further aspect, said device may be a window. such as a building window. In some embodiments, the building window may be a roof window or a facade window.
In one or more embodiments of said further aspect, the device may be a furniture, such as a heating furniture, such as an oven, or a cooling furniture, such as a freezer or a refrigerator.
In one or more embodiments of said further aspect, the length of the first projecting glass sheet portion may overlap one or more frame parts and/or walls of the device.
In one or more embodiments of said further aspect, the length of the second projecting glass sheet portion may overlap one or more frame parts and/or walls of the device.

Description of the drawings

The present disclosure will in the following be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising projecting glass sheet portions and a force transferring member, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure
Fig. 2: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising a protecting glass sheet portion with a projecting part which projects beyond a side edge of another glass sheet of the VIG unit, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 3: illustrates schematically a laminated VIG unit, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 4: illustrates schematically a laminated VIG unit where a lamination sheet comprises a projecting part, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Figs. 5-6: illustrates a various embodiments of a VIG unit comprising a further insulating gap, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 7: illustrates schematically a laminated VIG unit, according to further embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 8: illustrates schematically a vacuum insulated glass comprising an enamel layer, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 9: illustrates a schematically a VIG unit comprising an edge covering, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 10: illustrates a schematically a VIG unit comprising a clips or clamp, according to embodiments of the present disclosure
Fig. 11: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising a protection seal, according to embodiments of the present disclosure,
Figs. 12-14: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising discrete force transferring members, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 15: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising a protection seal, according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 16: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising projecting glass sheet portions at opposite sides of the VIG unit, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Figs. 17-18: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising projecting glass sheet portions at all four sides, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 19: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising projecting glass sheet portions at four VIG unit sides, and projecting glass sheet parts which projects beyond the edge of a projecting glass sheet portion at two sides, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 20: illustrates schematically a VIG unit comprising projecting glass sheet portions at three sides, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure,
Figs. 21-23: : illustrates schematically a device comprising a VIG unit, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed description

Fig. 1 illustrates schematically a cross section of a vacuum insulated glass unit 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vacuum insulated glass unit may also be referred to as "glass unit" or "VIG unit" in the present document.
The VIG unit comprises a first glass sheet 3a comprising a first major surface 3a1, and a second glass sheet 3b comprising a second major surface 3b1. These major glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 faces each other and an evacuated gap 4 placed/provided between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1. The glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 are substantially parallel. The glass sheets 3a, 3b also comprises oppositely directed, major surface 3a2, 3b2 facing away from the evacuated gap 4.
A plurality of support structures 5 are arranged between the glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 with a mutual distance to the neighbouring support structures. These support structures 5 are distributed inside the evacuated gap 4 according to a predetermined pattern, e.g. in rows and columns. The support structures 5 maintains the gap 4 between the major glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the VIG unit 1 when the gap 4 has been evacuated and sealed.
The glass sheets 3a, 3b are sealed together at the periphery of the glass sheets 3a, 3b with the plurality of support structures 5 arranged between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 in the evacuated gap 4. The sealing together of the first and second glass sheets 3a, 3b may comprise use of an edge seal 6 material such as a rigid edge seal material. In some embodiments, the edge seal 6 material may comprise or consist of a solder material such as a glass solder material, for example a glass solder frit material, such as a low melting point glass solder frit material.
The vacuum insulated glass unit 1 may in some embodiments comprise more than 300 support structures 5, such as more than 1000 or more than 2000 support structures 5arranged in the evacuated gap 4. The vacuum insulated glass unit 1 may in some embodiments comprise between 500 and 10000 support structures 5, such as between 1000 and 600 support structures in the evacuated gap 4.
The sealing together of the glass sheet 3a, 3b at the edges by the edge seal 6 may provide a fused, rigid edge seal. The edge seal encloses the evacuated gap around the periphery of the evacuated gap 4.
One or both glass sheets 3a, 3b may have a thickness between 1 mm and 6 mm, such as between 2 mm and 4 mm, for example between 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm including both end points.
The glass sheets 3a, 3b may be of the same or different thickness.
In some embodiments, the first glass sheet and/or second glass sheet has a thickness below 6 mm, such as below 4.5 mm, such as 4 mm or below.
In some embodiments, one or both glass sheets 3a, 3b has a thickness of between 2.5 mm and 5 mm, such as between 3 mm and 4.5 mm, such as 3 mm or 4 mm.
The glass sheets 3a 3b may be annealed glass sheets or tempered glass sheets, such as thermally tempered glass sheets. Thermally tempered glass sheets 3a, 3b may e.g. allow providing a VIG unit with larger mutual distance between adjacent support structures 5 and/or may allow use of thinner glass sheets 3a, 3b than if using annealed glass sheets.
The distance between neighbouring support structures 5 in the gap 4 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be between 20 mm and 70 mm, such as between 25 mm and 65 mm, such as between 35 mm and 45 mm.
If the glass sheets 3a and/or 3b are thermally tempered glass sheets, the major surfaces 3a1, 3a2, 3b1, 3b2 of these may be uneven due to e.g. a plurality of so-called roller waves, bending and/or due to global edge kink. These characteristics may originate from the manufacturing process of the thermally tempered glass sheets.
The evacuated gap 4 has been evacuated to a reduced pressure (e.g. provided at an evacuation and sealing station.
In embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure in the evacuated gap 4 may be below 0.05 mbar, such as below 0.005 mbar, such as 0.003 or 0.001 mbar or below. This may be obtained by means of an evacuation pump before sealing the gap 4.
For the evacuation of the gap 4, a pump (not illustrated) may have been connected directly or indirectly to an evacuation hole of the VIG unit assembly, and after the evacuation, the evacuation hole is sealed by a gap sealing, such as at least partly by means of a solder material and/or another sealing solution, such as a permanent sealing solution. In some embodiments, an evacuation hole sealing solution may comprise a solder material and/or a glass pipe to be sealed by heating when the gap 4 has been finally evacuated to provide a VIG unit. In some embodiments, the evacuation of the gap 4 may be provided by means of a suction cup (not illustrated) arranged to cover an evacuation hole. In other embodiments, the evacuation may be provided inside an evacuation chamber.
The support structures 5 maintain a distance between the glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 across the evacuated gap when the gap 4 has been evacuated and sealed to provide the final VIG unit.
The distance between the major glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 facing the evacuated gap 4 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be 0.5 mm or below, such as 0.3 mm or below, for example 0.2 mm or below.
The distance between the major glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1 facing the evacuated gap 4 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, such as between 0.15 and 0.25 mm. It is understood that the support structures 5 may have a height substantially matching such a gap height / distance between the glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1.
It is understood that the edge seal 6 may have a height substantially matching the gap 4 height / distance between the glass sheet surfaces 3a1, 3b1.
The edge seal 6 comprises a first side surface 6a facing away from the evacuated gap 4, and a second side surface 6b facing towards the evacuated gap 4. The width of the edge seal 6 extends between said first 6a and second 6b edge seal surfaces. The edge seal also has a length (not visible in fig. 1).The edge seal 6 length extends parallel to the glass sheet edges 3ae, 3be. The VIG unit cross section illustrated in fig. 1 may be substantially perpendicular to the edge seal 6 length.
It is generally to be understood that the VIG unit 1 may e.g. be transparent to at least visible light, i.e. light in the spectrum that is visible to the human eye.
The VIG unit 1 may also, in embodiments of the present disclosure, comprise a lamination layer 3c, 9 (see e.g. figs. 3 or 4). For example a multi-layer lamination layer, as illustrated.
The lamination layer 9, 3 in fig. 1 comprises a lamination interlayer 9. The lamination interlayer 6 may in embodiments comprise or consist of one or more of the following: ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA),

In some embodiments, PVB, EVA or TPU may be preferred for the lamination interlayer.
In one or more embodiments, the lamination interlayer 9, may have a thickness (extending between the adjacent glass sheet surfaces) above 0.5 mm, such as above 0.7 mm, such as above 1 mm or above 1.4 mm.
In some embodiments, the lamination interlayer 9 has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, such as between 0.6 mm and 3 mm, such as between 0.7 mm and 2 mm or between 1 mm and 3 mm.
The lamination layer comprises a lamination glass sheet 3c attached to said lamination interlayer 6. The further glass sheet 3c may be tempered, such as thermally tempered, or annealed. The lamination glass sheet 3c may have the same thickness, a lower thickness or a larger thickness, than the glass sheet thickness of the first and/or second glass sheets 3a, 3b. The lamination layer 3c, 6 provides safety and may e.g. carry broken parts of the glass unit 3 in case of breakage thereof.
In fig. 1, the first glass sheet 3a comprises a first projecting glass sheet portion P1a which projects beyond the first side surface 6a of the first edge seal 6 with a first projection length L1.
The length L1 may corresponds to the distance DIS1 between the glass sheet edge 3ae and the edge seal 6 surface 3a, measured across the surface 3a1 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the edge 3ae.
Moreover, in fig. 1 the second glass sheet 3b comprises a second, further projecting glass sheet portion P2a which projects beyond the first side surface 6a of the first edge seal (6) with a second projection length L2.
The length L2 may corresponds to the distance DIS2 between the glass sheet edge 3be and the edge seal 6 surface 3a, measured across/along the surface 3b1 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the edge 3be.
The vacuum insulated glass unit 1 comprises a force transferring member 8. The force transferring member 8 is arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
The first side surface 6a and the second side surface 6b of the edge seal 6 both extends between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the glass sheets 3a, 3b. The edge seal 6 also comprises parts that provides an airtight sealing connection between the edge seal 6 and the surface 3a1, 3b1 of the respective glass sheet 3a, 3b, so as to maintain the low pressure in the evacuated gap 4. These surfaces extends between the edge seal side surfaces 6a, 6b.
The force transferring member 8 is configured to transfer impact forces F1 subjected to one of the first P1a or further P2a projecting glass sheet portions, to the other of the first P1a or further P2a projecting glass sheet portions.
The impact force F1 may comprise a sudden impact force, such as a strike. For example a hit, such as a strike provided by an object such as a ball, such as hails. The impact force may be applied neat the edge 3a1 at the surface 3a2.
The force transferring member 8 may be configured so as to transfer impact forces F1 subjected to the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a to the further projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
The force transferring member 8 in fig. 1 is configured to transfer impact forces F1 subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a directly to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a.
Hence, impact forces F1, such as sudden impact forces F1, subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a is configured to be transferred to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a through the force transferring member 8.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 may be at least 10 mm, such as at least 20 mm, such as at least 30 mm. In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 may be at least 5 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 may be at least 40 mm, such as at least 60 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 may be smaller than 100 mm, such as smaller than 80 mm, such as smaller than 60 mm. In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 may be smaller than 40 mm, such as smaller than20 mm, such as smaller than 10 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 is at least 40 mm, such as at least 60 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 is at least 100 mm, such as at least 150 mm, such as at least 200 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the first projection length L1 is between 10 mm and 200 mm, such as between 30 mm and 150 mm, such as between 40 mm and 100 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L2 may be at least 10 mm, such as at least 20 mm, such as at least 30 mm. In some embodiments, the second projection length L2 may be at least 5 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L2 may be at least 40 mm, such as at least 60 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L2 may be smaller than 100 mm, such as smaller than 80 mm, such as smaller than 60 mm. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L1 may be smaller than 40 mm, such as smaller than 20 mm, such as smaller than 10 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L2 is at least 100 mm, such as at least 150 mm, such as at least 200 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the second projection length L2 is between 10 mm and 200 mm, such as between 30 mm and 150 mm, such as between 40 mm and 100 mm.
As illustrated in fig. 1 and several figures described below, a space 7 is provided between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. In fig. 1 and several figures described below, the space 7 has a height defined between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 that substantially corresponds to the height of the edge seal and/or the length between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 in the evacuated gap.
It is understood that the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a extends beyond the first side surface 3a so that a space 7 may be provided between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a. As illustrated in fig. 1 and several figures described below, the distance between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a which faces the space may be at least partly, or substantially fully, determined by the thickness of the edge seal 6.
In some embodiments, the distance between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P1b may be below 1 mm, such as below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below. In some embodiments, the distance between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P1b may be between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, such as between 0.15 and 0.25 mm.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the space 7 between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a may be filled with a gas such as air or argon.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, substantially no pressure difference may be present between the vacuum insulated glass unit exterior EXT and the space 7 arranged between the major surfaces 3a1, 3b1of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the space 7 extends over at least 30%, such as at least 70%, such as at least 95% of the second projection length L2.
The space 7 may, in embodiments, as e.g. illustrated in fig. 1 and several figures described below, be arranged between the first side surface 6a and the force transferring member 8.
In fig. 1 and several figures described below, the force transferring member 8 is arranged between the major surface 3a1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the major surface 3b1 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. The major surface 3a1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a faces the major surface 3b1 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
The force transferring member 8 is in fig. 1 arranged proximate the edges 3be, 3ce of the first and second projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a.
The force transferring member 8 may extend beyond the edge(s) 3be, 3ae. It 8 may also overlap the edge 3be, 3ae surface(s) and/or adhere to the edge 3be, 3ae surface(s).
The force transferring member 8 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be attached to the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. This this attachment may e.g. be provided by means of such clamping and/or adhesion.
The force transferring member 8 may in embodiments of the present disclosure comprise or consist of a resilient material. The force transferring member 8 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be resilient.
In some embodiments the force transferring member 8 may comprise one or more of a polymer, a silicone material, a rubber material and/or a tape, such as an adhesive tape.
In some embodiments the force transferring member 8 may comprise an extrudable material such as comprising a thermoplastic insulation material, e.g. a silicone material, a butyl material and/or an EPDM (ethylene propylene diene) rubber, such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber.
In some embodiments, the force transferring member 8 may comprises one or more of clips or spacers, such as one or more metal or polymer clips or spacers.
In some embodiments, the force transferring member 8 may acta a s a spacer that maintains a distance between the projecting glass sheet portions when a force F1 is applied directly to one or both projecting glass sheet portions, e.g. at one of the surfaces 3a2, 3b2 at a location opposite the space 7.
As illustrated in figures described further below, see e.g. one or more of figs. 11, and/or 16-20 the force transferring member(s) may comprise an elongated strip, such as a resilient, elongated strip, extending along/parallel to the length of the edge 3be, 3ce of the first and second glass sheet 3a 3b.
In fig. 1, the first projection length L1 and the second projection length L2 are substantially.
Fig. 2 illustrates a cross section of a VIG unit 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, where the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a comprises a projecting part P1b, which projects beyond the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a with a third projection length L3.
The length L3 may corresponds to the distance DIS3 between the glass sheet edge 3be and the glass sheet edge Sab, measured along the surface 3a1 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the edge 3ae. The length L3 is defined from a position at the glass sheet 3a surface 3a1 opposite to the edge 3be as e.g. illustrated in fig. 2 and several figures described below.
In fig. 2 and several of the figures described above and below, the first projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a corresponds to the total projection length of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a. The total projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a comprises or consist of the sum L2 + L3 of the lengths L2 and L3, i.e. the sum of the length of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a that is overlapped by the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a, and the length L3 of the part P1b of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
In fig. 2 and several of the figures described below, the second projection length L2 is smaller than the first projection length/ total projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
The projection lengths L1, L2, L3 are substantially perpendicular to a plane PL2 that extends parallel to the longitudinal direction of the edge seal 6. Said plane PL2 may additionally or alternatively be substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the edges 3ae, 3be. The plane PL2 may be perpendicular to the plane PL1 which comprises an exterior major surface 3a2 of the glass sheet 3a. The plane PL2 may comprise the first side surface 6a of the edge seal 6.
Projection lengths L1, L2, L3 extends substantially parallel to the plane PL1 which comprises an exterior major surface 3a2 of the glass sheet 3a.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length L3 may be at least 25 mm, such as at least 45 mm, such as at least 65 mm.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length L3 may be at least 45 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length L3 is between 25 mm and 200 mm, such as between 45 mm and 120 mm, such as between 45 mm and 80 mm.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the third projection length L3 is between 35 mm and 80 mm, such as between 45 mm and 70 mm.
The second projection length L2 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be smaller than the third projection length L3. In some embodiments, the second projection length L2 may be is at least 5% smaller, such as at least 10% smaller, such as at least 20% smaller, than the third projection length L3.
The projection length L2 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a may in embodiments of the present disclosure extend over at least 15%, such as over at least 25%, such as over at least 35%, of the total projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
The projection length L2 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a may in embodiments of the present disclosure extend over less than 55%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43% of the total projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
The projection length L2 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a may in embodiments of the present disclosure extend over between 10% and 60%, such as between 20% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the total projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
The projection length L2 of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a may in embodiments of the present disclosure be between 3% and 95% smaller, such as between 5% and 80% smaller, such as between 10% and 50% smaller, than the third projection length L3.
Fig. 2 moreover illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the force transferring member 8 overlaps, such as is attached to, the edge 3be surface of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a beyond which the projecting part P1b projects. The force transferring member 8 extends in between the projecting portions P1a, P1b from the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a that is distant to the edge seal 6.
The force transferring member 8 is in fig. 2 arranged proximate the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a beyond which the projecting part of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a project with the third projection length L3.
In other embodiments, the force transferring member 8 may not overlap the edge 3be surface of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a beyond which the projecting part P1b projects.
In several of the figures described above and below, the force transferring member 8 is placed at the part of the second projection glass sheet portion that is distal to the edge seal 6.
In embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may be arranged at the outer half, such as the outer third, such as the outer quarter or outer fifth of the part of the length L2 of the second projection glass sheet portion P2a that is distal to the edge seal 6.
In embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may be arranged at the outer eighth, or outer tenth of the part of the length L2 of the second projection glass sheet portion P2a that is distal to the edge seal 6.
The space 7 is proximate the edge seal 6 between the force transferring member 8 and the edge seal 6.
In the embodiments of figs. 1 and 2, if an impact force F1, such as a sudden strike, acts directly on the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a, a part of that force is transferred through the force transferring member 8 to the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a, in this case the projecting glass sheet portion P2a of the second glass sheet. sheet 3c.
It is generally understood that the force transferring member 8 may strengthen the first projecting glass sheet portion and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion when compared to a scenario where the force transferring member 8 is omitted. The force transferring member(s) 8 may provide that the first and second projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a each acts less as separate, individual cantilever beams.
The force transferring member 8 may provide vibration damping when the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a is/are subjected to a direct impact force F1. The force transferring member 8 may provide oscillation damping when the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a is/are subjected to a direct impact force F1.
Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the VIG unit 1 is a laminated VIG unit. Hence, the VIG unit comprises a lamination glass 3c and a lamination interlayer as e.g. described according to various embodiments above. The lamination interlayer 9 is arranged between the lamination glass 3c and the second glass sheet 3b.
In fig. 3, the first 3a and second 3b glass sheets projects beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c.
In fig. 3, the first glass sheet 3a projects beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c with the first projection length L1, and the second glass sheet 3b projects beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c with the second projection length L2. This is due to that the edge 3ce is substantially flush with the edge seal surface 6a.
In fig. 3, the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a, and the second glass sheet portion P2a, project beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c.
In other embodiments, the first glass sheet 3a may project beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c with a length that is larger or smaller than the first length L1.
In still further embodiments, the second glass sheet 3b may project beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c with a length that is larger or smaller than second length L1.
In other embodiments, the first glass sheet 3a and/or the second glass sheet 3b may project beyond the edge 3ce of the lamination glass 3c a length that is larger or smaller than the first length L1.
The lamination glass 3c and the lamination interlayer 9 may overlap the edge seal 6 width partly or fully. In other embodiments, the lamination glass 3c edge 3ce may not overlap the edge seal 6 width.
It is generally understood that in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may be arranged with a distance from the first surface 6a of the first edge seal 6 that is less than 65%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43%, of the of the projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
In embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may be arranged with a distance from the first edge seal 6 that is larger than 10%, such as larger than 20%, such as larger than 30%, of the projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
In embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may be arranged with a distance from the first surface 6a of the first edge seal 6 that is between 10% and 70%, such as between 15% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 6 is arranged with a distance to the first edge seal 6 that is between L2 - 20 mm to L2, such as between L2 - 10 mm to L2, such as L2 - 5 mm to L2. This distance may correspond to the extent of the space 7 from the first edge seal 6 and to the force transferring member 6. For example if the force transferring member 8 is arranged with a distance from the first surface 6a of L2 - 5 mm (L2 minus 5 mm) means that the force transferring member 8 may extend from 5 mm from the edge 3be and towards the edge 3be.
As an example, a test was conducted in an embodiment substantially as illustrated in fig. 3. In the test:

25 mm diameter solid steel balls (for imitating hails of a hail storm) were shot at the projecting part P1b proximate the edge 3ae,
the first and second glass sheets 3a, 3b was both 4 mm thermally tempered glass sheets
The second projection length L2 was approximately 33 mm
The third projection length L3 of the projecting part P1b of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a which projected beyond the edge of the second projecting glass sheet portion was approximately 50 mm
The force transferring member 8 was a silicone material strip extending along the bottom edge 3be of the second glass sheet, and was arranged proximate the edge 3be and extended a small distance in between the projecting portions P1a, P2a from the edge 3be
The second glass sheet was laminated with a lamination interlayer and a lamination glass sheet (see below). The lamination glass did not project beyond the edge seal 6 surface 3a. The edge 3bc of the lamination glass sheet was substantially flush with the edge 6a

The results of this test indicated a that a solution as illustrated in figs. 2 and 3 may provide a more strong projecting part P1b that is less likely to break when subjected to impact forces. With a force transferring member 8 arranged as described above, tests indicated that the projection length L3 may be 50 mm, or more, without breaking when shooting the steel balls a the projecting part P1b.
On the other hand, without a force transferring member 6 and without the second projecting portion P2a, tests indicated that a projecting glass sheet portion that projected beyond the edge seal 6 may be more likely to break if the projection length was larger than 25 mm when shooting the steel balls on that projecting portion distant to the edge seal 6.
In embodiments of the present disclosure )see e.g. figs. 1-3), the force transferring member 8 may overlap, such as be attached to, the edge 3be, 3ae surface of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and/or second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. This attachment may comprise an adhesive attachment.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, as e.g. illustrated in fig. 2, the force transferring member 8 may extend beyond the edge 3be, 3ce of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a beyond which the projecting part (P1b) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) project with the third projection length (L3).
Fig. 4 illustrates a laminated VIG unit 1 according to further embodiments of the present disclosure. Here, the lamination glass sheet 3c comprises the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a which projects beyond the first side surface 6a of the first edge seal 6 with the second projection length L2. The second projecting glass sheet portion P2a of the lamination glass sheet 3c may be provided substantially as described above according to various embodiments of the present disclosure where the second glass sheet 3b comprises the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a
The first glass sheet 3a comprises, in fig. 4, the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a which projects beyond the first side surface 6a of the first edge seal 6 with the first projection length L1, e.g. as described according to various embodiments above and/or below.
The second glass sheet 3b is arranged between the first glass sheet 3a and the lamination glass sheet 3c. The first glass sheet 3a and the lamination glass sheet 3c both project beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b.
The force transferring member 8 is arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the lamination glass sheet 3c. The force transferring members 8 is configured to transfer impact forces F1 subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a.
Hence, in case an impact force F1, such as a sudden strike, acts directly on the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a, a part of that force is transferred through the force transferring member 8 to the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a, in this case the projecting glass sheet portion P2a of the lamination glass sheet 3c.
The force transferring member 8 may in embodiments of the present disclosure be arranged at the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b, e.g. as illustrated in figs. 2-3.
It is generally understood that the edge 3ae, 3be, 3ce surfaces described above and/or below extend between major surfaces 3a1, 3a2, 3b1, 3b2, 3c1, 3c2 of the respective glass sheet 3a, 3b, 3c. The edge 3ae, 3be, 3ce surfaces and the major surfaces 3a1, 3a2, 3b1, 3b2, 3c1, 3c2 of the respective glass sheets intersects at longitudinal corner parts.
In fig. 4, the space 7 between the surfaces 3a1, 3c1 of the first and second projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a is arranged opposite to the edge 3be surface and overlaps the edge surface of the second glass sheet 3b.
In fig. 4, the force transferring member 8 is arranged opposite the edge 3be surface and overlaps the edge surface of the second glass sheet 3b.
Figs. 5 and 6 illustrates various embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the VIG unit 1 comprises a further insulating gap 10. The further insulating gap 10 is arranged between a major surface 3d1 of a third glass sheet 3d and the major surface 3b2 of the second glass sheet 3b which faces away from the evacuated gap 4. A further edge seal 10a encloses the further insulating gap 10.
The majority of the area of the further insulating gap 10 is arranged opposite the majority of the area of the evacuated gap 4. This is not visible in fig. 5. The further insulating gap 10 may be a gas filled gap such as a gap containing argon.
In some embodiments, the mutual distance between the surfaces 3d1, 3b2 that is arranged at opposite sides of the further insulating gap 10 may be at least 10 times larger, such as at least 20 times larger or at least 40 times larger than the mutual distance between the glass sheets 3a, 3b that is arranged at opposite sides of the evacuated gap 4.
In some embodiments, the mutual distance between the surfaces 3d1, 3b2 that are arranged at opposite sides of the further insulating gap 10 may be between 10 and 120 times, such as between at least 20 times and 90 times, such as between 40 times and larger 70 times larger, than the mutual distance between the glass sheet 3a, 3b surfaces 3a1, 3b1 that is arranged at opposite sides of the evacuated gap 4.
The seal 10a enclosing the further insulating gap 10 may comprise one or more of (not illustrated):

One or more desiccants
One or more spacers,
One or more seals, such as comprised in a primary seal, such as comprising one or more portions for preventing or reducing vapor penetration and/or gas loss, such as reducing argon gas loss
One or more seals, such as secondary seals, that is/are configured to keep the glass sheets 3d, 3b2 together, protect the primary seal and/or prevent vapor penetration.
A silicone edge seal material, such as a silicone material comprising moisture absorbing particles

In some embodiments, the mutual distance between the major surfaces 3d1, 3b2 that are arranged at opposite sides of the further insulating gap 7 may be between 10 mm and 22 mm, such as between 11 mm - 15 mm, such as between 12 and 14 mm.
In fig. 5, the further insulating gap 10 fully overlaps width of the first edge seal 6. The third glass sheet 3d extends beyond the side surface 6a of the edge seal 6 with a length that substantially corresponds to the length L2. In some embodiments, the second glass sheet 3b, such as the projecting glass sheet portion P2a, may project beyond the edge 3de of the third glass sheet 3d. This is illustrated in fig.6. Moreover, in fig. 6, the evacuated gap 4 overlaps the further edge seal 10a.
Fig. 7 illustrates a laminated VIG unit 1 substantially similar to the one illustrated in fig. 3. However, in fig. 7, the lamination glass sheet 3c and the lamination layer projects beyond the first surface 6a of the edge seal.
In the embodiments illustrated in figs. 5 and 7, the third glass sheet 3d or the lamination glass sheet 3c and the lamination interlayer 9 may provide a further strengthening of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the VIG unit 1 comprises an enamel layer 12. The VIG unit 1 in fig. 8 is of the type as illustrated in fig. 2, but it is naturally understood that the VIG unit 1 may also be a VIG unit as described in relation to other embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the VIG unit 1 comprising an enamel 12 may be a VIG unit 1 as illustrated in, and/or described in relation to, figures described above and/or below.
The enamel layer 12 provides a hiding feature. The enamel layer 12 may be substantially opaque to at least visible light. The enamel layer 12 covers, such as is applied to, a surface 3a1 of the glass sheet 3a, which comprises the projecting glass sheet portion P1a. The enamel layer 12 covers a major surface 3a1 of the projecting glass sheet portion P1a. The enamel 12 may provide a masking.
The enamel layer 12 may be visible through the first glass sheet 3a when looking towards the major surface 3a2 from the outside/exterior EXT, but may hide further parts of the VIG unit 1 as it 12 is opaque.
The enamel 12 may have e.g. a dark colour such as dark grey or substantially black.
The edge seal 6 is in fig. 8 placed between the enamel layer 12 and the second glass sheet 3b. This may in some embodiments provide that the edge seal 6 abuts the enamel layer 12 and may be fixed thereto. This may e.g. be provided during the VIG unit manufacturing where the enamel 12 may be heated together with the edge seal material to a temperature above the melting point of the edge seal 6 material, so that the edge seal 6 material attach with a rigid connection to the enamel 12 material. Here, the edge seal 6 material may as previously mentioned comprise solder material providing e.g. a glass solder edge seal or a metal solder edge seal.
The enamel layer 12 covers a major part of the surface 3a1 of the projecting glass sheet portion P1b, so as to hide one or more parts P2a, 8, 6 of the VIG unit.
The enamel layer 12 may in some embodiments cover substantially an entire major surface 3a1 of the projecting glass sheet portion P1b. The force transferring member(s) 8 may be arranged between the enamel layer 12 and the projecting portion P2a.
The enamel layer 12 may in some embodiments, as illustrated, extend into the evacuated gap 4. The enamel layer 12 may be arranged between the glass sheet 3a and the edge seal 9. In some further embodiments, one or more support structures 5 may support on the enamel layer 12. In other embodiments, no support structures 5 may support on the enamel layer 12.
The enamel layer 12 may in some embodiments comprise or be made from or comprise a glass material and/or a metal oxide layer. This may be applied during manufacturing of the glass sheet.
In some embodiments, a low-e coating (not illustrated), if present, may be removed from the glass sheet surface where the enamel layer is to be placed, prior to applying the enamel 12 material. This low-e coating may e.g. be removed by means of laser.
The enamel layer 12 may be attached to the glass sheet surface already during hardening of the glass sheet if the glass sheet is a thermally tempered glass sheet. This enamel layer may be applied to the glass sheet and heated together with the glass sheet to a temperature above 500°C, such as above 600°C, in the hardening process of providing a thermally tempered glass sheet.
The enamel layer 12 may have a thickness below 0.15 mm, such as below 0.1 mm, such as below 0.04 mm. in some embodiments, the thickness of the enamel layer may be between 0.001 mm and 0.1 mm, such as between 0.02 mm and 0.05 mm.
It is generally understood that in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the VIG unit 1 may comprise one or more low-e coatings 13.
A low-e coatings 13 is/are in fig. 8 arranged at a major surface 3b1 of the second glass sheet 3b facing towards the evacuated insulating gap 4.
The low-e coating(s) 13 may e.g., in some embodiments, comprise one or more silver layers and/or one or more dielectric layers.
In some embodiments, the low-e coating 13, such as a low-e coating stack, may as illustrated be terminated before the edge seal 6 so as to not extend in between the edge seal 6 and the glass sheet 3b. The low-e coating 13 extends in between the support structures 5 and the glass surface 3b1.
The low-e coating may cover at least 90%, such as 95% or at least 98% of the surface 3b1 part facing the evacuated gap 4. If the glass unit is of a type comprising a further insulating gap 10 as described previously, a major surface of the glass sheet 3b and/or 3d facing the gap 10 may additionally or alternatively comprise a low-e coating, such as a low-e coating stack. This is however not illustrated.
The enamel layer 12, may in embodiments of the present disclosure cover the length L1, L2, L3, such as at least 90%, or substantially the full length, of the first P1a, P1b and/or second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an edge covering 14 comprises the force transferring member. The edge covering 14 extends in fig. 9 to cover both glass sheet 3a, 3b edge 3ae, 3be surfaces and extends to cover a part of the major glass sheet 3a, 3b surfaces 3b2, 3a2 that faces away from the space 7.
In some embodiments, the edge covering 14 may partly or fully encapsulate the VIG unit 1 edge. In some embodiments, the edge covering 14 may comprise an overmoulding. The edge covering 14 may a adhere to the glass sheets.
In some embodiments, the edge covering 14 may comprise or consist of a resilient material such as rubber, silicone, a polymer material and/or the like.
The edge covering 14 may as illustrated, in some embodiments, comprises the force transferring member 8 which extends in between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a. The edge covering 14 and force transferring member 8 may or may not be unitary. In other embodiments, the force transferring member 8 may be separate to the edge covering 14.
Fig. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a clips or clamp 15 comprises the force transferring member 8. The clips may comprise or be made from a metal, a polymer material, a fibre reinforced material and/or the like. The clips extends to cover the glass sheet 3b edge 3be surface and a part of the glass sheet surfaces 3b1, 3b2. The clips may be attached to the glass sheet 3a by clamping and/or by means of an adhesive.
In some embodiments, a recessed portion (not illustrated) may be provided in one or both glass sheets 3a, 3b in order to provide more space for the force transferring member 8, this recessed portion may e.g. be arranged proximate the edge(s) of the glass sheet(s) 3a, 3b. In other embodiments, however, the surface(s) 3b1, 3b2 of the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a may not comprise a recessed portion (as illustrated in the figures described above and/or below. for the force transferring member 8.
It is understood that the first glass sheet 3a may comprise the major surface 3a2 configured to be the exterior major surface of the VIG unit 1, when the VIG unit is installed, that may be subjected to exterior forces such as weather, striking objects and/or the like. Dependent on if the VIG unit 1 comprises a lamination glass sheet 3a and/or a third glass sheet 3d as described above according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a major surface of one of the glass sheets 3b, 3c, 3d may comprise the major exterior surface of the VIG unit that faces away from the first glass sheet 3a.
Fig. 11 illustrates a VIG unit 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, seen towards the exterior major surface 3a2 of the VIG unit. The VIG unit 1 may e.g. be a VIG unit 1 according to one or more embodiments described above and/or below. For example, the VIG unit 1 may be a VIG unit as illustrated in one or more of figs. 2-8. The VIG unit 1 may in other embodiments not comprise the projecting part P1b, See e.g. fig. 1.
The VIG unit 1 comprises a top TO bottom BO, and sides SI1, SI2. The projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a, and the projecting part P1b, are arranged at the VIG unit bottom BO. The VIG unit 1 has a width extending in the width direction WD. The width direction WD is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the top edge 1te and bottom edge 1be of the VIG unit. The VIG unit 1 has a height extending in the height direction HD. The height direction HD is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the side edges 1se. The length of the side edges 1si may or may not be longer than the length of the bottom and top edges 1te, 1be. Bottom and top edges 1te, 1be are parallel. Side edges 1se are parallel. The longitudinal direction of the side edges 1se of the VIG unit may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the top and bottom edges 1te, 1be of the VIG unit. The VIG unit 1 has a total height H extending in the height direction HD. The height H includes the length L1. The VIG unit 1 has a total width W extending in the width direction WD.
It is generally understood that in various embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in several of the figures described above, see e.g. figs. 1-4 and 7-10 the VIG unit 1 may comprise just one insulating gap 4 (the evacuated gap). Such a single gap 4 VIG unit 1 may have a U_g (U_glazing ) value of below 0.8 W/(m ² K), such as below 0.6 W/(m ² K), such as below 0.5 W/(m ² K). The U_g (U_glazing ) value of such a singe gap 4 unit 1 may be between 0.35-0.7 W/(m ² K), such as between 0.4-0.6 W/(m ² K).
In other embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in e.g. the figures 5-6, the VIG unit 1 may comprise the evacuated gap 4 and a further insulating gap 10 such as a gas filled gap 10, such as a gap containing argon. Such a multi gap 4, 10 VIG unit 1 may have a U_g (U_glazing ) value of below 0.5 W/(m ² K), such as below 0.4 W/(m ² K), such as below 0.3 W/(m ² K). The U_g (U_glazing ) value of such a multi gap VIG unit 1 may be between 0.2-0.5 W/(m ² K), such as between 0.25-0.4 W/(m ² K).
The U_g value may be determined at the centre portion CEGU of evacuated gap pf the VIG unit 1. The centre portion CEGU of the glass unit 1 may be at the location of the evacuated gap 4 arranged where two diagonally extending lines 49a, 49b, which extends between diagonally arranged corner portions of the edge seal 6, intersect.
The length L2 may in some embodiments constitute at least 1%, such as at 2%, such as at least 3% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit 1.
The length L1 may in some embodiments constitute at least 2%, such as at least 4% such as at least 6% or at least 7% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit 1.
The projection length L2 of the second projecting glass sheet portion may in embodiments constitute between 0.5% and 5%, such as between 1% and 4%, such as between 1% and 3% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit.
The projection length L1 of the first projecting glass sheet portion may in embodiments constitute between 1% and 15%, such as between 2% and 10%, such as between 3.5% and 7%, of the height H or width W of the VIG unit 1.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length L3 of the projecting part P1b of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a may constitute at least 1%, such as at least 2% such as at least 3% or 4% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit 1.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection length L3 of the projecting part P1b of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a may constitute less than 10%, such as less than 6%, such as less than 4% of the height H or width W of the VIG unit 1.
For example if the projection length L1, L2 and/or L3 extend in the height direction, the above mentioned percentage embodiments may be determined in the height direction. If instead the projection length L1, L2, L3 extend in the width direction, the above mentioned percentage embodiments may be determined in the width direction. See e.g. also the various embodiments of figs 17-20, where projecting portions extend both in the width direction and the height direction.
In fig. 11, the force transferring member 8 comprises an elongated strip, such as a resilient, elongated strip, extending along/parallel to the longitudinal direction LDB of the bottom edge 3be of the first and second glass sheet 3a 3b.
Fig. 11 illustrates a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit 1 comprises a protection seal 11 which protects the first edge seal 6. The protection seal 11 is arranged opposite the first side surface 6a of the first edge seal. In fig. 11, the protection seal 11 also comprises, such as provides, the force transferring member 8.
The protection seal 11 is arranged between major surfaces 3a1, 3b1of the first and further glass sheet 3a, 3b. In fig. 11 it is arranged between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a. The protection seal 11 seals the space 7 between the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. In fig. 11, the protection seal also extends along the side edge 1se at the area of the space 7, so as to seal the space 7 at the VIG unit sides.
The protection seal 11 may seal said space 7 at a location proximate the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a. In fig. 11, the protection seal 11 seals the space 7 between the projecting portions P1a, P2a proximate the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a which is overlapped by the projecting part P1b of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
The protection seal 11 may be a water tightening seal, such as a protection seal 11 for protecting the first edge seal 6 against water. Additionally or alternatively, the protection seal 11 may be a seal for preventing dust from entering the space 7. The seal 11 may or may not be a hermetic seal that hermetically seals the space 7.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may or may not comprises or consists of an adhesive material.
In some embodiments, one or more further force transferring members 8 (not illustrated)may be arranged in the space 7. This/these may e.g. comprise adhesive dots and/or strips configured to provide force transfer between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a. In other embodiments, the force transferring member 8 may comprise or consist of a strip, such as a continuous strip, extending to enclose the space 7 at one, two or three (as illustrated in fig. 11) sides of the space 7.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protection seal 11 may consist of an elongated strip, where said strip provides a force transferring member 8.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the force transferring member 8 may consist of an elongated strip, where said strip provides said protection seal 11.
In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, force transferring member may comprises a material that may be extruded, e.g. through a nozzle, to provide the force transferring member and possibly also the protection seal.
Fig. 12 illustrates a VIG unit 1 where the VIG unit 1 comprises a plurality of force transferring members 8, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. These force transferring members 8 are discretely arranged with a mutual distance DIS4. The mutual distance DIS4 extends in the longitudinal direction LDB of the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b.
In some embodiments, the distance DIS4 may be less than 80%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 25% of the length of the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b. The length of the edge 3b extends between corners of the glass sheet 3b.
In some embodiments, the plurality of force transferring members 8 may comprise at least two force transferring members 8, such as at least three, at least four, or at least 6 force transferring members. In fig. 12, five force transferring members 8 are illustrated.
In some embodiments, the plurality of force transferring members 8 may comprise no more than 10 force transferring members 8, such as no more than six force transferring members 8, such as no more than four or no more than two force transferring members.
In some embodiments, the plurality of force transferring members 8 may comprise between two and fifteen force transferring members 8, such as between two and eight force transferring members 8, such as between three and six force transferring members 8.
The plurality of force transferring members 8 may comprise adhesive dots of resilient material such as silicone, rubber, a thermoplastic polymer, butyl, adhesive tape and/or the like. additionally or alternatively, The plurality of force transferring members 8 may one or more clips or clamps, such as one or more clips or clamps comprising or made from a metal and/or a polymer, such as a plastic.
Fig. 12 moreover illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a protection seal 11 substantially surrounds the first edge seal 6 around the outer boundary of the edge seal 6 at the top TO, 1te (not illustrated in fig 12), bottom BO, 1be, and sides 1se, SI1, SI2 of the vacuum insulated glass unit 1. See also e.g. figs. 16-20.
The protection sealing 11 is arranged opposite to the side surface 6a of the edge seal that encloses the evacuated gap 4, which side surface 6a faces away from the evacuated gap 4. The projecting portions P1a, P2a overlaps the edge seal in fig. 12. The glass sheets 3a, 3b may as illustrated overlap the protection sealing 11 also at sides 1se and/or top 1te. The glass sheets 3a, 3b may in other embodiments not overlap the protection sealing 11 at sides 1se and/or top 1te.
The protection seal 11 may or may not abut the surface 6a of the edge seal 6. In fig. 12, the protection seal 11 is in touch with the surface 6a at the sides 1se and bottom of the VIG unit 1. In other embodiments, the protection seal may not be in touch with the edge seal at one or more of the sides bottom and/or top of the VIG unit. See e.g. fig. 11 where the protection seal 11 is arranged with a distance to the edge seal 6.
In fig. 12, the plurality of force transferring members 8 are arranged at the edge 3be of the second projecting portion P2a, in this embodiment an edge 3be of the glass sheet 3b. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in fig. 13, the force transferring member(s) 8 may be arranged with a distance to the edge 3be of the glass sheet 3b, between the edge 3be and the edge seal 6.
Figs. 12 and 13 moreover illustrates a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the entire space 7 between the projecting portions P1a, P2 is not fully sealed. A protection seal 11 is in fig. 13 arranged to protect the edge seal 6.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in e.g. figs 12-13, the force transferring member(s) 8 may be arranged in the space 7 between the protection seal 11 and the edge 3be of the second projecting glass sheet portion P2a.
It may in some embodiments be acceptable not to fully seal the space 7 from water and/or dust. For example in case of a final solution where an external part, such as a part of a device 100, provides a sufficient seal of the space 7, and/or in embodiments where an enamel 12 covers a projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a. See also e.g. fig. 8 and/or one or more of figs. 21-23.
Fig. 14 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, seen towards the second glass sheet 3b2 exterior surface EGS2 (see also fig. 2). In fig. 14, discrete, force transferring members 8 are arranged in the space 7 (see e.g. figs 1-3) between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a. A water protection seal 11 is arranged to protect the edge seal 6 enclosing the evacuated gap 4 comprising the support structures 5.
In the embodiment of fig. 14, the protection seal 11 does substantially not extend in between the glass sheets 3a, 3b at the VIG unit side 1se or VIG unit bottom. The protection seal 11 does in fig. 14 substantially not extend in between the projecting portions P1a, P2a. Hence, the force transferring members 8 may provide the majority of the force transfer, or substantially the entire force transfer, between the projecting portions P1a, P2a in response to a force F1 striking the projecting portion P1b. (see e.g. F1 of fig. 2). The protection seal 11 encloses the space between the projecting portions and assure a seal hereof from e.g. water and/or dust. In fig. 14, the force transferring members 8 are separate to the protection seal 11.
However, in some embodiments, the protection seal 11 may extend in between the glass sheets 3a, 3b at one or more of the VIG unit sides 1se, VIG unit top (not illustrated in fig. 14), and/or VIG unit bottom.
In the various embodiments of figs. 12, 13, the force transferring members 8 are discrete and comprises dots such as adhesive dots. In other embodiments, the force transferring member or members 8 may comprise or consist of one or more elongated members, such as elongated force transferring strips, such as adhesive strips, see e.g. fig. 14.
In figs 13-14, the space 7 extends between the edge seal surface 6a and force transferring members. The space 7 may hence also continue at the other side of the respective force transferring member. In figs. 13 and 14, the force transferring members are surrounded by the space 7.
In figs. 12 and 13, the protection seal 11 is arranged between the edge seal surface 3a and the force transferring member(s).
Fig. 15 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure where the first glass sheet 3a does not comprise a projecting part, see also fig. 1. In fig. 15, a protection seal 11 is arranged to enclose the space 7 between the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a at the sides 1se and bottom 1be of the VIG unit 1. The space 7 is arranged between the protection seal 11 and the edge seal 6. The protection seal in fig. 15 provides the force transferring member 8, e.g. as described above in relation to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 16 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the VIG unit comprises projecting portions at both VIG unit top To and VIG unit bottom BO. The projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a, P1b at the bottom BO projects in opposite directions than the projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a, P1b at the top TO.
The protection seal 11 encloses surface 6a of the edge seal 6 at all four sides SI1, SI2, TO, BO of the VIG unit and also encloses the space 7 (see e.g. fig. 2) between the projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a.
In fig. 16, the protection seal 11 also comprises, such as provides, the force transferring members 8 at the bottom BO and top TO. In other embodiments, the protection seal 11 may be separate to the one or more force transferring members 8.
In fig. 16, the first glass sheet 3a and second glass sheet 3b projects P1a, beyond the edge seal 6 surface 6a at both the top TO and bottom BO of the VIG unit. Also, in fig. 16, the first glass sheet 3a comprises a projecting part P1b that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at both VIG unit top TO and VIG unit bottom BO.
Fig. 17 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the first glass sheet 3a and second glass sheet 3b projects P1a, P2a, beyond the edge seal 6 surface 6a at all four sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit. Also, in fig. 17, the first glass sheet 3a comprises a projecting part P1b that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at all four sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit 1.
It is generally understood that the projection length L1, L2 and/or L3 may be the same or different at the different sides SI1, SI2, TO, BO, of the VIG unit 1.
FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the first glass sheet 3a and second glass sheet 3b projects P1a, P2a, beyond the edge seal 6 surface 6a at all four sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit. However, in fig. 18, the first glass sheet 3a does not comprise a projecting part P1b that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at all four sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit 1. See e.g. also fig. 1 and/or 15.
FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the first glass sheet 3a and second glass sheet 3b projects P1a, P2a, beyond the edge seal 6 surface 6a at all four sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit. In fig. 19, the first glass sheet 3a also comprises a projecting part P1b projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at some of the sides BO, TO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit 1, and does not project beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at other of the sides. In fig. 19, the first glass sheet 3a comprises a projecting part P1b that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at the TO and bottom BO of the VIG unit 1, Whereas the projecting glass sheet portion P1a of the first glass sheet 3a does not project beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet 3b at the VIG Unit sides SI1, SI2.
It is understood that the projecting part P1b may be omitted at one, two, three or four (see fig. 18) sides TO, BO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit 1 whereas the projcting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a may be provided at all four sides TO, BO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit 1.
Fig. 20 illustrates an embodiment substantially similar to that illustrated in fig. 19. However, projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a are omitted at one side (in this case top TO side) of the VIG unit. Projecting portions P1a, P2a are provided at all three other sides, but a projecting part P1b that projects beyond the edge 3be of the second glass sheet is only provided at one side of the VIG unit 1, in this case the bottom BO side.
In the figures 16-20, an edge seal 6 protection seal 11, as e.g. previously described, is arranged to surround and enclose the space 7 between the projecting glass sheet portions P2a, P1a so as to provide e.g. dust and/or water protection. The protection seal 8 may provide a substantially endless enclosure enclosing the entire edge seal 6 of the VIG unit 1. In other embodiments, the protection seal 8 may not provide a substantially endless enclosure enclosing the entire edge seal 6 of the VIG unit (see. e.g. fig. 11). In that case, the protection seal 8 may only provide edge seal 6 protection at a sub-part of the edge seal 6 of the VIG unit 1. E.g. at the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a.
In the figures 16-20, the protection seal 11 also comprises, such as provides, the force transferring member(s) 6. In other embodiments, the force transferring member(s) may be separate to the protection seal 11.
As can be seen in several of the figures described above, the first glass sheet 3a may be larger than the second glass sheet 3b (and e.g. also larger than the lamination glass sheet 3c and/or larger than the third glass sheet 3d, if present). This may be the case if the projecting part P1b is present at one or more sides TO, BO, SI1, SI2 of the VIG unit.
In figs. 11, 16 and 17 the length H of the glass sheet 3a is larger than the length of the second glass sheet 3b. The widths W of the glass sheets 3a, 3b are however substantially the same. In
In fig. 18, both the length H and the width W of the first glass sheet 3a is substantially identical to the length and width of the second glass sheet 3b, since the glass sheet 3a does not comprise the projecting part P1b. The glass sheets hence only comprises the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a.
In fig. 19, the length H and width W of the glass sheet 3a is larger than the length and width of the second glass sheet 3b.
In fig. 20, the length H of the glass sheet 3a is larger than the length of the second glass sheet 3b. The widths W of the glass sheets 3a, 3b are however substantially the same.
Figs. 21 - 23 Illustrates a device 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. A vacuum insulated glass unit 1 as described above according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is installed in or at the device 100. The device may or may not be or comprise an electrical appliance.
In figs. 21-23, an enamel 12 (hatched in figs. 21-23) provides a hiding of the force transferring member(s) 8, edge seal 6, projecting glass sheet portion(s) of one or more other glass sheets 3b, 3c, 3d of the VIG unit and/or the like.
Fig. 21 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the device 100 is a cooling furniture, such as a freezer or a refrigerator. The VIG unit 1 is installed at a door of the cooling furniture to enable display of the interior of the refrigerator from the exterior of the device 100. The VIG unit 1 provides heat insulation in order to provide a device 100 having improved heat insulating performance and hence improving energy efficiency of the device.
Fig. 22 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the device 100 is a heating furniture such as an oven. The VIG unit 1 is installed at a door of the heating device to enable display of the interior compartment of the heating furniture. The VIG unit 1 provides heat insulation in order to provide a device 100 having improved heat insulating performance and hence improving energy efficiency of the device.
Fig. 23 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the device 100 is a window, such as a building 200 window. The device 100 may be a roof window or a facade window. In the roof window illustrated at fig. 11, the enamel 12 is arranged at the bottom BOT of the roof window and overlaps one or more elongated bottom profiles (not illustrated) of the roof window.
The length L1, L2, L3 of the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a as described according to various embodiments of the present disclosure above, may overlap one or more body parts of the device 100. For example, the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a may overlap one or more frame parts, such as may overlap one or more frame profiles, such as the width of one or more frame profiles, of a window. Alternatively, the projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a may cover wall sides of one or more heat insulating walls of the device 100 enclosing a storage space (e.g. walls enclosing a storage space of a refrigerator, freezer or an oven). One or both projecting glass sheet portions P1a, P2a may in some embodiments overlap a part of the wall thickness, or the full wall thickness, of one or more heat insulating walls of the device 100 enclosing a storage space (e.g. walls enclosing a storage space of a refrigerator, freezer or an oven). The enamel 12 may partly or fully hide the overlap so that the overlapped wall part may not be visible when looking through the glass sheet 3a at the area of the enamel from the VIG unit exterior EGS1.
The projecting glass sheet portion P1a and the projecting part P1b (if present), may or may not substantially provide a "glass to edge" impression at the device 100 at one or more sides of the device.

Items

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are moreover described in the below items:

1. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1), wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a first glass sheet (3a) and a second, glass sheet (3b), wherein an insulating, evacuated gap (4) is placed between the first glass sheet (3a) and the second glass sheet (3b), wherein a plurality of support structures (5) are distributed in the evacuated gap (4) so as to maintain a distance between a first major surface (3a1) of the first glass sheet (3a) facing towards the evacuated gap (4) and a first major surface (3b1) of the second glass sheet (3b) facing towards the evacuated gap (4),
- wherein a first edge seal (6) encloses the evacuated gap (4), wherein the first edge seal (6) comprises a first side surface (6a) which faces away from the evacuated gap (4),
- wherein the first glass sheet (3a) comprises a first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a first projection length (L1),
2. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 1, wherein a further glass sheet (3b, 3c) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a second projection length (L2),
3. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 2 wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises one or more force transferring members (8), wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
4. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 3, wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is configured to transfer impact forces (F1) subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a).
5. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 3 or 4, wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is configured to transfer impact forces (F1) subjected to the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) to the further projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
6. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 2-5, wherein the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) comprises a projecting part (P1b) which projects beyond the edge (3be, 3ce) of the further projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) with a third projection length (L3).
7. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 6, wherein the third projection length (L3) is at least 25 mm, such as at least 45 mm, such as at least 65 mm.
8. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 6 or 7, wherein the third projection length (L3) is between 25 mm and 200 mm, such as between 45 mm and 120 mm, such as between 45 mm and 80 mm.
9. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-8, wherein the second projection length (L2) is smaller than the third projection length (L3).
10. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-9, wherein the second projection length (L2) is at least 5% smaller, such as at least 10% smaller, such as at least 20% smaller, than the third projection length (L3).
11. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-9, wherein the second projection length (L2) is between 3% and 95% smaller, such as between 5% and 80% smaller, such as between 10% and 50% smaller, than the third projection length (L3).
12. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first projection length (L1) and/or the second projection length (L2) is at least 10 mm, such as at least 20 mm, such as at least 30 mm.
13. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein said first projection length (L1) and/or the second projection length (L2) is at least 40 mm, such as at least 60 mm, such as at least 80 mm.
14. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first projection length (L1) and/or the second projection length (L2) is between 10 mm and 200 mm, such as between 30 mm and 150 mm, such as between 40 mm and 100 mm.
15. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein a space (7) between surfaces, such as major surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1), of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) is filled with a gas such as air or argon.
16. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein substantially no pressure difference is present between the vacuum insulated glass unit exterior (EXT) and a space (7) arranged between major surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
17. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 15 or 16, wherein the space (7) extends over at least 30%, such as at least 70%, such as at least 95% of the second projection length (L2).
18. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first (3a) and further (3b, 3c) glass sheets are tempered glass sheets, such as thermally tempered glass sheets.
19. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the second glass sheet (3b) is said further glass sheet.
20. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a lamination glass sheet (3c) attached to a major surface (3d2, 3b2) of a glass sheet (3b, 3d) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1), such as to a major surface (3b2) of the second glass sheet (3b), by means of a lamination interlayer (9).
21. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 20, wherein the lamination interlayer 6 comprises or consist of one or more of the following:
ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA),
- polyisobutylene (PIB),
- polyacetals such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB),
- transparent polyurethane (PU),
- thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU),
- polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
- polyesters,
- cyclo olefin polymers (COP),
- ionomers and/or an ultraviolet activated adhesives.
22. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 21 or 22, wherein the lamination interlayer (6) has a thickness above 0.5 mm, such as above 0.7 mm, such as above 1 mm or above 1.4 mm.
23. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 20-22, wherein the lamination glass sheet (3c) is said further glass sheet,
and/or
wherein the first glass sheet (3a, P1a), such as the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a), and/or the second glass sheet (3b, P2a), such as the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), projects beyond an edge (3ce) of the lamination glass (3c).
24. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged between a major surface (3a1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and a major surface (3b1) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a),
wherein said major surface (3a1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) faces the major surface (3b1) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
25. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) overlaps, such as is attached to, the edge (3ae, 3be, 3ce) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and/or second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
26. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-11, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) overlaps, such as is attached to, the edge (3ae, 3be, 3ce) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) beyond which the projecting part (P1b) projects with the third projection length (L3).
27. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-11 or item 26, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged proximate the edge (3be, 3ce) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) beyond which the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) project with the third projection length (L3).
28. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 6-11 or any of items 26-27 wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) extends beyond the edge (3be, 3ce) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) beyond which the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) project with the third projection length (L3).
29. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) is attached to the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), such as by means of clamping and/or adhesion.
30. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) comprises a resilient material, such as a silicone material, a rubber material and/or a tape.
31. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) comprises an elongated strip, such as a resilient, elongated strip, extending along the length of the edge (3be, 3ce) of the further glass sheet (3b).
32. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a protection seal (11) which protects the first edge seal (6), such as wherein the protection seal (11) is arranged opposite the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal.
33. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 32, wherein the protection seal (11) is arranged between major surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1) of the first and further glass sheet (3a, 3b), and/or wherein the protection seal (11) is arranged between major surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1) of the first and second glass sheet (3a, 3b).
34. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 32-33 and according to any of items 15-17, wherein the protection seal (11) seals said space (7) between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a),
and/or wherein the protection seal (11) comprises a water tightening strip of material which encloses the space (7) between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), such as at least two, such as at least thee three sides (BO, SI1, SI2) of the vacuum insulating glass unit (1).
35. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 32-34 and according to any of items 15-17, and/or wherein the protection seal (11) comprises a water tightening strip of material which encloses the space (7) between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), such as proximate at least two, such as at least three, sides (BO, SI1, SI2) of the vacuum insulating glass unit (1).
36. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 34 or 35, and according to any of items 6-11, wherein the protection seal (11) seals said space (7) proximate the edge (3be) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) which is overlapped by the projecting part (P1b) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a)
37. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 34-36, wherein the protection seal (11) seals said space (7) at a location proximate the edges of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) and/or the edges of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
38. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 31-37. wherein said protection seal (11) is provided by one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8).
39. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 32-38, wherein the protection seal (11) substantially surrounds the first edge seal (6) around the outer boundary of the edge seal (6) at the top (TO, 1te), bottom (BO, 1be), and sides (SI1, SI2, 1se) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1),
- such as
- wherein the protection seal (11) comprises, such as provides, the force transferring member (8).
40. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 32-39, wherein the protection seal (11) is a water tightening seal, such as a protection seal (11) for protecting the first edge seal (6) against water.
41. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) and/or said protection seal (11) comprises or consists of an adhesive material,
and/or
wherein the protection seal (11) comprises or consist of an elongated strip, where said elongated strip provides said force transferring member (8).
42. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first glass sheet (3a) and/or second glass sheet (3b) has a thickness below 6 mm, such as below 4.5 mm, such as 4 mm or below.
43. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first glass sheet (3a) and second glass sheet (3b) have substantially the same thickness.
44. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first glass sheet (3a) and second glass sheet (3b) have different thickness.
45. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the distance between the first major surface (3a1) of the first glass sheet (3a) and the second major surface (3b1) of the second glass sheet (3b) is below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below.
and/or wherein the distance between the first major surface (3a1) of the first glass sheet (3a) and the second major surface (3b1) of the second glass sheet (3b) is between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, such as between 0.15 and 0.25 mm.
46. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a further insulating gap (10) arranged between a major surface of a third glass sheet (3d) and a major surface (3b2) of the second glass sheet (3b) which faces away from the evacuated gap (4), wherein a further edge seal (10a) encloses the further insulating gap (10).
47. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 46, wherein the further insulating gap (10) overlaps the evacuated gap and the first edge seal (6).
48. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 46 or 47, wherein the evacuated gap (4) overlaps the further edge seal (10a).
49. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 46 - 48, wherein the majority of the area of the further insulating gap (10) is arranged opposite the majority of the area of the evacuated gap (4).
50. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of items 46 - 49, wherein the further insulating gap (10) is a gas filled gap such as a gap containing argon.
51. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, such as according to any of items 6-11, wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over at least 15%, such as at least 25%, such as at least 35% of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
52. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, such as according to any of items 6-11, wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over less than 55%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43%, of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
53. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, such as according to any of items 6-11, wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over between 10% and 60%, such as between 20% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
54. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, such as according to any of items 6-11, wherein the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) substantially corresponds to the sum of the length of the part of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) that is overlapped by the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), and the length (L3) of the part (P1b) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) that projects beyond the edge (3be) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
55. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the force transferring member (8) is arranged at the outer half, such as the outer quarter such as the outer fifth, of the of the length (L2) of the second projection glass sheet portion P2a that is distal to the edge seal (6).
56. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged with a distance from the first surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) that is less than 65%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43% of the of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion P1a.
57. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged with a distance from the first edge seal (6) that is larger than 10%, such as larger than 20%, such as larger than 30% of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
58. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged with a distance from the first surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) that is between 10% and 70%, such as between 15% and 50%, such as between 30% and 45% of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
59. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over less than 55%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43%, of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
60. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the VIG unit has a height (H) and a width (W), wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) constitutes at least 1%, such as at 2%, such as at least 3% of the height (H) or width (W) of the VIG unit (1), and/or wherein the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) constitutes at least 2%, such as at least 4% such as at least 6% of the height (H) or width (W) of the VIG unit 1.
61. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises an enamel layer (12), wherein said enamel layer (12) covers the length (L1, L2, L3), such as at least 90% or substantially the full length, of the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portion (P1a, P2a).
62. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 61, wherein the enamel layer extends into the evacuated gap and/or extends in between the first glass sheet (3a) and the first edge seal (6).
63. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 61 or 62, wherein the enamel layer (12) hides one or more of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a), the one or more force transferring members (8) and/or the first edge seal (6), and/or wherein the enamel layer is opaque to visible light.
64. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit has a top side (TO), a bottom side (BO) and two sides (SI1, SI2) extending between said top and bottom sides,
- wherein the top (TO) and bottom (BO) sides are substantially parallel wherein the sides (SI1, SI2) are substantially parallel,
- wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a first set of said first and second projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) at a first of said top side, bottom side or sides extending between said top and bottom sides, and
- wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises one or more further sets of projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) at one or more other of said top (TO) side, bottom (BO) side or sides (SI1, SI2) extending between said top and bottom sides.
64. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to item 64, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit comprises sets of said projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) at all four of said top (TO) side, bottom (BO) side and sides (SI1, SI2) extending between said top and bottom sides.
65. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is configured to transfer impact forces (F1) subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) directly to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a).
66. A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit is configured so that impact forces (F1) subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) is transferred to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) through the one or more force transferring members (8).
67. A device (100), wherein one or more vacuum insulated glass units (1) according to any of the preceding items is/are installed at said device.
68. A device (100) according to item 67, wherein the device is a window such as a building window, such as a roof window or a facade window,
69. A device (100) according to item 67, wherein the device is a furniture, such as a heating furniture, such as an oven, or a cooling furniture, such as a freezer or a refrigerator.
70. A device (100) according to any of items 67-69, wherein the length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) overlaps one or more frame parts and/or walls of the device (100),
and/or
wherein the length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) overlaps one or more frame parts and/or walls of the device (100).

Claims

A vacuum insulated glass unit (1), wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a first glass sheet (3a) and a second glass sheet (3b), wherein an insulating, evacuated gap (4) is placed between the first glass sheet (3a) and the second glass sheet (3b), wherein a plurality of support structures (5) are distributed in the evacuated gap (4) so as to maintain a distance between a first major surface (3a1) of the first glass sheet (3a) facing towards the evacuated gap (4) and a first major surface (3b1) of the second glass sheet (3b) facing towards the evacuated gap (4),
wherein a first edge seal (6) encloses the evacuated gap (4), wherein the first edge seal (6) comprises a first side surface (6a) which faces away from the evacuated gap (4),

wherein the first glass sheet (3a) comprises a first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a first projection length (L1),

wherein a further glass sheet (3b, 3c) of the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) which projects beyond the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) with a second projection length (L2),

wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises one or more force transferring members (8), wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) is configured to transfer impact forces (F1) subjected to one of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) to the other of the first or further projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second glass sheet (3b) is said further glass sheet,
such as wherein the distance between the first major surface (3a1) of the first glass sheet (3a) and the first major surface (3b1) of the second glass sheet (3b) is below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) comprises a projecting part (P1b) which projects beyond the edge (3be, 3ce) of the further projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) with a third projection length (L3).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to claim 4, wherein the third projection length (L3) is at least 25 mm, such as at least 45 mm, such as at least 65 mm.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of claims 4-5, wherein the second projection length (L2) is smaller than the third projection length (L3),
such as wherein the second projection length (L2) is at least 5% smaller, such as at least 10% smaller, such as at least 20% smaller, than the third projection length (L3).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a space (7) between surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) is filled with a gas,
such as wherein said space (7) extends over at least 30%, such as at least 70%, such as at least 95% of the second projection length (L2),
and/or

wherein the distance in said space (7) between the surfaces (3a1, 3b1), such as major surfaces, of the projecting glass sheet portions (P1a, P2a) is below 0.5 mm, such as below 0.3 mm, such as 0.2 mm or below.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) overlaps, such as is attached to, an edge (3ae, 3be, 3ce) surface of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and/or the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) is attached to the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a),
such as wherein said one or more force transferring members (8) comprises an elongated strip.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more force transferring members (8) comprises a resilient material, such as a polymer, a silicone material, a rubber material and/or a tape.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises a protection seal (11) which protects the first edge seal (6),
such as wherein the protection seal (11) is arranged opposite the first side surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) and/or wherein the protection seal (11) is arranged between major surfaces (3a1, 3b1, 3c1) of the first and further glass sheets (3a, 3b).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to claim 11, wherein the protection seal (11) seals said space (7) between the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) and the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a),
such as wherein the protection seal (11) is a water tightening seal.
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the protection seal (11) comprises, such as provides, said one or more force transferring members (8).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged with a distance from the first surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) that is larger than 10%, such as larger than 20%, such as larger than 30%, of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a),
and/or
wherein one or more of the one or more force transferring members (8) is arranged with a distance from the first surface (6a) of the first edge seal (6) that is less than 65%, such as less than 50%, such as less than 43% of the of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a),
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over at least 15%, such as at least 25%, such as at least 35% of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a),
and/or wherein the projection length (L2) of the second projecting glass sheet portion (P2a) extends over less than 55%, such as over less than 50%, such as over less than 43%, of the projection length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a).
A vacuum insulated glass unit (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum insulated glass unit (1) comprises an enamel layer (12), wherein said enamel layer (12) covers the length (L1, L2, L3), such as at least 90% or substantially the full length, of the first and/or second projecting glass sheet portion (P1a, P2a), such as wherein said enamel layer is opaque.
A device (100), wherein one or more vacuum insulated glass units (1) according to any of the preceding claims is/are installed at said device (100), wherein said device (100) is
• a window, such as a building window, such as a roof window or a facade window,

• a heating furniture, such as an oven, or

• a cooling furniture, such as a freezer or a refrigerator,
such as wherein the length (L1) of the first projecting glass sheet portion (P1a) overlaps one or more frame parts and/or walls of the device (100).