Most Innovative Component

2010 Crystal Achievement Award Winners

Window
 

The AirCell core inside the extrusion creates a superior thermal barrier.  Combined with triple-glazing, the system can deliver a U-factor of 0.15.

EnergyCore Fusion Insulated Vinyl Replacement Window System

Mikron Industries

Kent, Wash.

The EnergyCore window frame incorporates Fusion-Insulated technology to deliver superior energy efficiency. Produced using a proprietary tri-extrusion process, the AirCell insulating core creates a superior-performing thermal barrier thanks to optimized placement within the profile. Unlike manually foam-filled processes, the new tri-extrusion technology ensures frame profiles are fully insulated without internal voids.

Adding the AirCell core into an extrusionoffers thermal conductivity up to six times lower than fiberglass, four times lower than rigid PVC, and three times lower than pine wood. The core also uses material that is corner weldable and 100 percent recyclable back into window profiles. The EnergyCore-powered window system further enhances energy-efficiency potential as it accommodates wider, high-performance triple glazing systems. Combining the EnergyCore frame with triple glazing, manufacturers can build windows achieving a 0.15 U-factor (R 6.7) exceeding Energy Star Northern criteria
by 50 percent and DOE's R-5 program requirements by 29 percent. The system also helps OEMs increase sales and market share by providing a clearly differentiated energy saving feature.

Window frames are available in a range of popular exterior colors incorporating Mikron's SuperCapSR heat-reflective, superior durability coextruded color technology. The window system also features SDLs, trim options to fit a variety of regional architectural design styles, and a variety of
woodgrain finish options.
 

Door
 

Schlage Link uzes Z-Wave wireless technology to link locks to home automation and security systems, and even Web-enabled phones.

Schlage Link

Schlage/Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies

Carmel, Ind.

Schlage Link deadbolts and locks give homeowners the power to remotely control and monitor access to their home and home automation devices 24/7 with any Web-enabled computer or mobile phone. The hardware communicates using the Z-Wave wireless bridge via fully encrypted, secure RF signals.

Providing remote control capabilities to homeowners via a Schlage online portal and mobile phone application, the system easily plugs into an Ethernet port on the home computer's Internet router. It can also communicate with more than 200 additional Z-Wave enabled home automation devices including lighting, IP cameras and thermostats, allowing the system to be incorporated into standard or customized home automation systems. Schlage Link deadbolts and locks eliminate the need to carry or circulate keys by providing keyless entry through the password-protected mobile phone application or 4-digit access codes that can be entered, activated, deleted or disabled on the lock's 11-digit push button keypad or via the Schlage Link web portal. Via the online portal, homeowners can choose to receive text or e-mail notifications when specific user codes are entered on the lock's keypad and track code activity over the past 90 days. These features allow homeowners to know exactly when people are entering their home.

Starter kits include one deadbolt or lock, a wireless ZWave Bridge and a compatible light module. Additional Schlage LiNK deadbolts and locks are sold separately but can be controlled using the same online portal and/or mobile application. Installation is said to require only a screwdriver and
takes less than 30 minutes, Schlage LiNK deadbolts and locks have an installation process similar to mechanical locks and fit standard door preparation. The deadbolts and locks are powered by standard AA and 9-volt batteries and are available in bright brass, satin nickel and aged bronze, to complement any décor. 

Glass/Glazing Component
 

E Glass options allow for glass to change from clear to translucent for privacy or from clear to tint to reduce glare and solar heat gain.

E-Glass

Innovative Glass Corp.

Plainview, N.Y.

A laminated glass product, E-Glass features two high-performing film interlayers and is typically fabricated into an insulating glass unit. The interlayers in E Glass can include either or both SPD-Smart (suspended particle device) and LC (liquid crystal) "smart" films that provide variable light transmission levels through the window. In addition, E Glass windows are available with supplemental interlayers and substrates that introduce desired colors, provide additional impact-resistance, reduce noise or offer other characteristics wanted by homeowners. They can be produced with decorative overlays, sandblasting effects and unique one-of-a-kind patterns for beautiful, dramatic designs. Units are offered in widths up to 40 inches and lengths of 10 feet or more.

The glass is powered using unobtrusive leads that exit the sealed laminate to a UL-approved fitting that is then connected to the home's power supply. Many control options exist ranging from simple on/off switches and dials to more advanced controllers that regulate incoming light and glare using photosensors or automated home control systems. Integration with security systems and home theaters is easily accomplished. The power required to operate E Glass is nominal, with typical windows requiring just one watt per day to operate.

Other 2010 Crystal Achivement Award Winners:

TECHNOLOGY

Most Innovative Window

Most Innovative Door

Unique Innovation

MANUFACTURING

Most Innovative Plant

Most Innovative Machine

MARKETING

Most Innovative Marketing Progam

Best Product Literature

 Best Industry Web Site

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