Concealed fastener window or curtain wall assemblies

Abstract

Window or curtain wall assemblies and concealed window fastening assemblies are disclosed. Each window panel includes two layers of glass or other material separated by a spacing mullion, which lines the perimeter of the window panel to create a sealed chamber. The depth of the sealed chamber between the two layers is variable to accommodate either thermal requirements, vertical and horizontal structural loads, or both. The chamber reduces heat loss due to convection allowing it to outperform current double or triple glazing window walls. Each chamber can connect through tubes to allow for air or gas transfer to enhance thermal performance and create the potential for other functional and aesthetic effects. When the window panels are assembled, the latching mechanism structurally unifies each panel to become a single monolithic surface that can also account for thermal expansion. Elements of the latching mechanism are arranged to allow the window or curtain wall to be assembled from the interior, leaving only caulking to be performed from the exterior. Concealing all of such elements helps eliminate the exposure of window mullions and minimizes maintenance of the window or curtain wall.