Apparatus for manufacturing muntin bar assemblies

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for assembling muntin bar lattices and spacer frames for use in insulating glass units are disclosed. One method of assembling a muntin bar lattice in accordance with the present invention comprises the steps of providing a muntin bar segment and a keeper dimensioned for piercing a wall of the muntin bar segment. A keeper in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises an elongate body including a tip portion that is dimensioned for piercing a wall of the muntin bar segment to create an opening therein. A spacer for the separation of panes in an insulating glass unit in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a tubular member comprising a wall defining a lumen and a mounting flange defining a plurality of mounting holes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.