The invention relates to windows and more particularly to methods and means for sealing and retaining glass (which term is used herein to include like transparent or translucent media) in window openings such as, for example, window openings in vehicle bodies, particularly windscreen or windshield openings.
In fixing a window glass in an opening, it is necessary for the fixing arrangement to be simple and quick to use, to provide an effective weatherproof seal, and to provide secure retention of the window glass. These requirements are particularly important in fixing arrangements for fixing glass in a windshield opening in a motor vehicle body; and in that application it is especially important that the fixing arrangement provides secure retention of the glass so as to hold it in position even when struck forcibly by, for example, an occupant of the vehicle in the event of a crash. In fact, such a requirement is not only important but is required by official regulations.
However, it will be appreciated that any fixing arrangement, while securely retaining the glass in position, should also be such as to be easy to use so as both to minimise production costs and to ease replacement of the window glass in case of breakage. Furthermore, it should provide a proper seal and be pleasing in appearance.
A sealing and retaining arrangement for retaining glass in a windshield opening is known in which the glass is primarily held in position by means of a layer of adhesive between the glass and a flange around the opening. In addition, clips are placed at intervals around the window opening and mounted on the flange, these clips having extensions direction both inwardly and outwardly of the window opening, and these extensions hold decorative moldings. Although the clips may also, in this application, help to support the glass in position during the bonding operation, primarily they are intended merely for supporting the decorative moulding.
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved sealing and retaining arrangement for sealing and retaining a window glass in position in a window opening.