Finite element analysis of temperature-induced deflection of vacuum glazing

Mechanical loading of vacuum glazing mainly results from atmospheric pressure and temperature differences between inside and outside air, which induce a differential thermal expansion of the internal and external glass panes. These are separated by a narrow evacuated gap of only a few tenths of a millimeter. This paper presents the results of static non-linear finite element analyses for vacuum glazing with surfaces up to 3×3m2 and glass pane thickness between 3 and 10 mm. These analyses were conducted using three different styles of finite element modeling for vacuum glazing. The non-linear deformation behavior and the particular deflection patterns observed for large-area vacuum glazing were investigated for two basic sets of boundary conditions. The paper further examines parameter studies carried out to assess the impact of the support pillars, which act as spacers between the glass panes, on the transverse shear stiffness of the glazing and on the overall glazing deflection.