GB2272014A

GB2272014A - The encapsulated window

Info

Publication number: GB2272014A
Application number: GB9222519A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Christopher John Rowlands
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1992-10-27
Filing date: 1992-10-27
Publication date: 1994-05-04
Also published as: GB9222519D0

Abstract

The encapsulated window (1) has a machined or moulded shape which enables it to be used as a display window of a larger panel such as a keyboard, display bezel or, facia panel. The shape of the window insert (1) provides a small rim around the outer profile which acts as a support onto the panel laminations (2) and backplate/p.c.b. (3) in the event of any impact to the front face. There is a sealant and bonding agent (4) which bonds the window insert (1) into position and also provides a seal to prevent the ingress of moisture and liquids but also provides an air-tight seal to prevent gas leakages. <IMAGE>

Description

THE ENCAPSULATED WINDOW This invention relates to an encapsulated window that is bonded and sealed into a larger panel, keyboard or facia to provide a one-part assembly that is sealed over the full surface area - even though part or parts of the panel are transparent.

A non-encapsulated window will leave surface joints to the top layers which are vulnerable to moisture ingression, chemical breakdown and physical abuse. This invention enables the entire panel to become one solid part without any surface joint - thereby protecting all layers below the window and, at the same time, providing a waterproof seal and impact protection to any components placed behind it.

The invention is now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawing.

The window insert (1) is made from a flat, transparent material which is then machined or moulded to provide a rim and a bevelled edge around its entire profile. The rim is then painted with an opaque paint to prevent the sealant from being visable from the top face.

The window insert (1) is then placed into an open aperture of a panel assembly (2) and (3). The panel assembly may include a printed circuit board (p.c.b.) or a metal backing plate each with various decorative or functional surface membrane layers bonded onto its surface (2).

After the window insert (1) has been fitted into position, a liquid sealant and bonding agent (4) is applied to a void area around the window insert (1) which bonds and seals it into position.

Claims

THE ENCAPSULATED WINDOW 1. The encapsulated window is produced from a transparent material and machined or moulded to such a shape that it will fit into an open aperture of any larger panel or bezel and then be sealed and bonded into position by using any liquid sealant and bonding agent. The window is now secured into position and now provides a complete encapsulation of a window and panel as one part.
2. An encapsulated window as claimed in claim 1. where, due to the shape and design, the window prevents the ingress of liquids and moisture through the panel.
3. An encapsulated window as claimed in claim 1. and 2.

wherein the window has an upper rim which provides impact resistance to the front face and protection to any components fitted behind it.
4. An encapsulated window as claimed in claim 3. wherein the window and encapsulation protects the edges of any surface laminations from vandalism or mechanical abuse.
5. An encapsulated window as claimed in claim 4. wherein the window and its encapsulation enables the complete panel to flex, expand and contract without affecting its sealing properties, as claimed in claim 1, 2 and 6.
6. An encapsulated window as claimed in claim 5. wherein the window and rim and its encapsulation prevents chemicals, liquids and moisture from attacking and degrading any adhesives or bonding that secures the surface laminations in place.
7. An encapsulated window as described therein with reference to the accompanying drawing.