Patent Publication Number: US-8967219-B2

Title: Window spacer applicator

Description:
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/353,545, filed on Jun. 10, 2010, titled “WINDOW SPACER APPLICATOR”; and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/424,545, filed on Dec. 17, 2010, titled “TRIPLE PANE WINDOW SPACER, WINDOW ASSEMBLY AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SAME”; and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/386,732, filed Sep. 27, 2010, titled “WINDOW SPACER, WINDOW ASSEMBLY AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SAME”; the disclosures of which are each hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     The technology disclosed herein generally relates to spacer applicator assembly that has tooling comprising a plurality of spacer retention devices, where at least one of the spacer retention devices is movable in a first direction. An actuator is coupled to the tooling, and is adapted to rotate the tooling about an axis. The tooling is adapted to move in a direction that is generally parallel to the axis. 
     In another implementation of the current technology, a spacer applicator has a rotatable mount configured to secure a pane. A spacer feed assembly is adjacent to the mount, where the feed assembly is configured to position and feed a spacer. A rotary actuator assembly is coupled to the mount and is configured to rotate the mount about an axis. The mount is further configured to be linearly actuated. 
     The technology disclosed herein also relates to a system for applying a spacer to a pane of a window assembly. A storage spool has a length of a spacer and a corner registration mechanism is adapted to score the spacer at defined locations. A filler station is adapted to insert a filler material into an interior region of the spacer and a sealant extruder adapted to apply sealant to first and second sides of the spacer. A cutter is adapted to cut the spacer to a desired length. A spacer applicator is adapted to automatically shape the spacer into a frame and assemble the spacer frame onto a pane. 
     One method disclosed herein relates to a method of applying a spacer to a pane, where a length of a spacer is received at a spacer applicator and an end portion of the spacer is engaged to one of a plurality of spacer retention devices. Tooling of the spacer applicator is rotated about an axis so that the spacer surrounds the plurality of spacer retention devices. The spacer applicator is moved in a direction that is generally parallel to the axis so that the spacer engages a surface of the first pane. 
     In an alternative method disclosed herein, a pane having an edge is secured to a mount, and the edge of the pane is adjacent a channel defined by a spacer. The mount is rotated, thereby rotating the pane and thereby wrapping the spacer around the edge of the pane. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a window assembly. 
         FIG. 2  is a side view of the window assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a spacer suitable for use with the window assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a spacer suitable for use with the window assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a spacer suitable for use with the window assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic representation of a system for applying the spacer to a window pane. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the spacer having a plurality of notches. 
         FIG. 8  is an enlarged perspective view of the spacer of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a spacer applicator assembly. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a stand assembly suitable for use with the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a side view of the stand assembly of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an applicator assembly suitable for use with the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 13  is a side view of the applicator assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a front view of the applicator assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a spacer applicator tooling suitable for use with the applicator assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the spacer applicator tooling of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  is a front view of the spacer applicator tooling of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spacer retention device suitable for use with the spacer applicator tooling of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 19  is an actuator assembly suitable for use with the applicator assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a lift assembly suitable for use with the applicator assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of the lift assembly of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 22  is a back view of the lift assembly of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a front view of the lift assembly of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a spacer applicator assembly. 
         FIG. 25  is a front view of the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 26  is a side view of the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a spacer feed assembly suitable for use with the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a shuttle assembly suitable for use with the spacer feed assembly of  FIG. 27 . 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the shuttle assembly of  FIG. 29  with the shuttle removed. 
         FIG. 30  is a fragmentary enlarged perspective view of the shuttle assembly of  FIG. 27 . 
         FIG. 31  is a fragmentary enlarged perspective view of the shuttle assembly of  FIG. 27 . 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an applicator assembly suitable for use with the spacer applicator assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of spacer applicator tooling suitable for use with the applicator assembly of  FIG. 32 . 
         FIG. 34  is a front view of the applicator assembly tooling of  FIG. 33 . 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a spacer retention device. 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a lift assembly suitable for use with the applicator assembly of  FIG. 32 . 
         FIG. 37  is a side view of the lift assembly of  FIG. 36 . 
         FIGS. 38-42  are schematic representations of a process for applying a spacer to spacer applicator tooling. 
         FIG. 43  is a schematic representation of an alternative result to  FIG. 42 . 
         FIG. 44  is a schematic representation of the process of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 45  is a schematic representation of the process of  FIG. 44 . 
         FIG. 46  is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a spacer. 
         FIG. 47  is a schematic representation of an alternate embodiment of tooling of a spacer applicator. 
         FIG. 48  is a schematic representation of an alternate embodiment of a spacer applicator. 
         FIG. 49  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a non-rectangular shape. 
         FIG. 50  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a rectangular shape with four supports. 
         FIG. 51  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a trapezoidal shape. 
         FIG. 52  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a rectangular shape with two supports. 
         FIG. 53  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a triangular shape. 
         FIG. 54  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having another non-rectangular shape. 
         FIG. 55  is a schematic of a window spacer and applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a pentagonal shape. 
         FIG. 56  depicts a partial perspective view of one implementation of a triple pane window assembly described herein. 
         FIG. 57  depicts a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a spacer retention device. 
         FIG. 58  depicts a top view of the spacer retention device of  FIG. 57 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like structure. 
     Window Assembly and Spacer Embodiments in  FIGS. 1-5   
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a window assembly  10  is shown. The window assembly  10  includes a first pane  12 , a second pane  14  and a spacer  16  disposed between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . 
     In the subject embodiment, the first and second panes  12 ,  14  are adapted to allow at least some light to pass through the panes  12 ,  14 . The first and second panes  12 ,  14  are made of a translucent or transparent material. In the subject embodiment, the first and second panes  12 ,  14  are made of a glass material. In another embodiment, the first and second panes  12 ,  14  are made of a plastic material. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , the first pane  12  includes a first surface  18  and an oppositely disposed second surface  20 . The second pane  14  includes a first surface  22  and an oppositely disposed second surface  24 . 
     The spacer  16  is disposed between the first and second panes  12 ,  14  to keep the first and second panes  12 ,  14  spaced apart from each other. The spacer  16  is adapted to withstand compressive forces applied to the first and second panes  12 ,  14  and/or to maintain a desired space between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . 
     The spacer  16  is sealingly engaged to each of the first and second panes  12 ,  14  at an edge portion  26  of each of the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer  16  is sealingly engaged to the second surface  20  of the first pane  12  and the second surface  24  of the second pane  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the spacer  16  is shown. A spacer suitable for use with the window assembly  10  has been described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0120036 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009-0120035, the disclosures of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     The spacer  16  includes a first strip  30  of material and a second strip  32  of material. The first and second strips  30 ,  32  are generally flexible in both bending and torsion. In some embodiments, bending flexibility allows the spacer  16  to be bent to form non-linear shapes (e.g., curves). Bending and torsional flexibility also allows for ease of window manufacturing. Such flexibility includes either elastic or plastic deformation such that the first and second strips  30 ,  32  do not fracture during installation into window assembly  10 . Some embodiments of spacer  16  include strips that do not have substantial flexibility, but rather are substantially rigid. In some embodiments, the first and second strips  30 ,  32  are flexible, but the resulting spacer  16  is substantially rigid. 
     In one embodiment, the first and second strips  30 ,  32  are formed from a metal material or a plastic material. In the depicted embodiment, each of the first and second strips  30 ,  32  has a plurality of undulations  34 . In one embodiment, the undulations  34  are arcuate in shape. In another embodiment, the undulations  34  have one of a sinusoidal, square, rectangular, triangular or other shape. 
     In one embodiment, the undulations  34  are adapted to provide flexibility to the first and second strips  30 ,  32 . In another embodiment, the undulations  34  are adapted to resist permanent deformation (e.g., kinks, fractures, etc.). In another embodiment, the undulations  34  may also increase the structural stability of the first and second strips  30 ,  32  and improve the ability of the spacer  16  to withstand compressive and torsional loads. 
     The first strip  30  includes a first side portion  36  and an oppositely disposed second side portion  38 . The first strip  30  further includes a first surface  40  and an oppositely disposed second surface  42 . 
     The second strip  32  includes a first side portion  44  and an oppositely disposed second side portion  46 . The second strip  32  further includes a first surface  48  and an oppositely disposed second surface  50 . 
     The second strip  32  includes a plurality of passages  52  that extend through the first and second surfaces  48 ,  50  of the second strip  32 . In the depicted embodiment, the passages  52  are generally aligned along a central longitudinal axis  54  of the second strip  32 . Other embodiments include other arrangements of passages  52 , such as multiple rows of passages  52 . Passages can be openings or apertures of any shape including slits, circular apertures, or the like. 
     The spacer  16  includes a first sidewall  56  and a second sidewall  58 . The first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  extend between the first strip  30  and the second strip  32 . In the depicted embodiment, the first sidewall  56  is engaged to the first side portion  36  on the first surface  40  of the first strip  30  and the first side portion  44  on the first surface  48  of the second strip  32 . In one embodiment, the first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  extend the length of the first and second strips  30 ,  32 . 
     Each of the first and second elongate strips  30 ,  32  includes a first elongate edge and a second elongate edge. The first elongate edge is at the edge of the first side portion  36 ,  44  of each strip and the second elongate edge is at the edge of the second side portion  38 ,  46  of each strip. The first extruded sidewall  56  is closer to the first side portion  36 ,  44  of each strip  30 ,  32  than to the second side portion  38 ,  46  of each strip  30 ,  32 . The first sidewall  56  is offset from the first edge of the first elongate strip  30  and from the first edge of the second elongate strip  32  by a first offset distance. The second extruded sidewall  58  is closer to the second side portion  38 ,  46  of each strip  30 ,  32  than to the first side portion  36 ,  44  of each strip  30 ,  32 . The second sidewall  58  is offset from the second edge of the first elongate strip and from the second edge of the second elongate strip by a second offset distance that will be substantially similar to the first offset distance. 
     In one embodiment, the first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  are manufactured from a plastic material. The plastic material can be extruded, rolled or molded to form the first and second sidewall  56 ,  58 . 
     The first and second strips  30 ,  32  and the first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  cooperatively define an interior region  60  of the spacer  16 . In one embodiment, a filler material is added to the interior region  60 . An exemplary filler material that may be added to the interior region  60  is a desiccant material. In the event that moisture is disposed between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 , the moisture passes through the passages  52  of the second strip  32  and is absorbed by the desiccant material in the interior region  60  of the spacer  16 . 
     The first side portion  36  of the first strip  30 , the first sidewall  56  and the first side portion  44  of the second strip  32  cooperatively define a first side  62  of the spacer  16 . The second side portion  38  of the first strip  30 , the second sidewall  58  and the second side portion  46  of the second strip  32  cooperatively define a second side  64  of the spacer  16 . The interior region  60  is disposed between the first and second sides  62 ,  64  of the spacer  16 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , an alternate embodiment of a spacer  16 ′ is shown. The spacer  16 ′ is similar to the previously described spacer  16 . Features of the spacer  16 ′ that are similar to features of the previously described spacer  16  have the same reference numeral with the addition of apostrophes or prime designations (′). As these features were previously described, these features will not be described further. New features of the spacer  16 ′ have reference numerals higher than  64 . 
     The spacer  16 ′ includes first and second strips  30 ′,  32 ′, a first sidewall assembly  65  and a second sidewall  58 ′. In the depicted embodiment, the first and second strips  30 ′,  32 ′ and the second sidewall  58 ′ are similar to the ones described above. 
     The first sidewall assembly  65  includes a first wall  66  and a second wall  68 . In one embodiment, a height H 1  of the first wall  66  is about equal to a height H 2  of the second wall  68 . In another embodiment, the height H 1  of the first wall  66  is greater than the height H 2  of the second wall  68 . In another embodiment, the height H 2  of the second wall  68  is greater than the height H 1  of the first wall  66 . 
     The first wall  66  is engaged to the first strip  30 ′ while the second wall  68  is engaged to the second strip  32 ′. In the depicted embodiment, the first wall  66  is engaged to a first side portion  36 ′ on a first surface  40 ′ of the first strip  30 ′ while the second wall  68  is engaged to a first side portion  44 ′ on a first surface  48 ′ of the second strip  32 ′. 
     The first and second walls  66 ,  68  define a channel  70  that extends through the first sidewall assembly  65  The channel  70  separates the first and second walls  66 ,  68  of the first sidewall assembly  65  so that a first side  62 ′ of the spacer  16 ′ is open to an interior region  60 ′ through the channel  70 . In the depicted embodiment, the channel  70  extends the length of the spacer  16 ′. In the embodiment shown, the channel  70  is centrally disposed between the first and second strips  30 ′,  32 ′. In another embodiment, the channel  70  is disposed closer to the first strip  30 ′ than the second strip  32 ′. In one embodiment, the channel  70  is potentially advantageous as it allows for greater flexibility of the spacer  16 ′ in bending and torsion as compared to the spacer  16 . In another embodiment, the channel  70  is potentially advantageous as it allows for insertion of a filler into the interior region  60 ′ of the spacer  16 ′. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , an alternate embodiment of a spacer  100  is shown. The spacer  100  includes a first strip  102  and a second strip  104 . In one embodiment, the first and second strips  102 ,  104  are made from a material consisting of metal, plastic and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the first and second strips include a plurality of undulations (not shown in  FIG. 5 ) similar to those shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     The first strip  102  includes a first side portion  106  and an oppositely disposed second side portion  108 . The first strip  102  further includes a first surface  110  and an oppositely disposed second surface  112 . 
     The second strip  104  includes a first side portion  114  and an oppositely disposed second side portion  116 . The second strip  104  further includes a first surface  118  and an oppositely disposed second surface  120 . Similar to the spacer embodiments described above, the first and second strips  102 ,  104  can define undulations. 
     The spacer  100  includes a first sidewall  122  and a second sidewall  124 . Each of the first and second sidewalls  122 ,  124  can be made of one or more pieces. The first and second sidewalls  122 ,  124  extend between the first strip  102  and the second strip  104 . In the depicted embodiment, the first sidewall  122  is engaged to the first side portion  106  on the first surface  110  of the first strip  102  and the first side portion  114  on the second surface  120  of the second strip  104 . In one embodiment, the first and second sidewalls  122 ,  124  extend the length of the first and second strips  102 ,  104 . 
     The second strip  104  of the spacer  100  includes an alignment member  126 . The alignment member  126  extends outwardly from the first surface  118  of the second strip  104 . In the depicted embodiment, the alignment member  126  is centrally disposed on the second strip  104  and extends the length of the second strip  104 . In one embodiment, the alignment member  126  is integrally formed from the second strip  104 . In another embodiment, the alignment member  126  is a separate component that is engaged to the second strip  104 . 
     Many additional spacer embodiments can be used with the system described herein, including spacers constructed of foam, for example. 
     System Description  FIGS. 6-8   
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a system  200  for applying a spacer  16 , such as that depicted in  FIG. 3 , to one of the first and second panes  12 ,  14  of the window assembly  10  is shown. The system  200  is adapted to prepare and apply the spacer  16  to the first and second panes  12 ,  14  of the window assembly  10 . In one embodiment, the process of preparing and applying the spacer  16  to the first and second panes  12 ,  14  takes less than about 15 seconds per window assembly  10 . In another embodiment, the process takes between about 8 to 15 seconds. In one embodiment, the process is electronically controlled and does not require much manual interaction. 
     In system  200 , the spacer  16  is coiled on a storage spool  202 . In one embodiment, the spacer  16  is continuously wrapped about the storage spool  202 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the spacer  16  from the storage spool  202  is fed through a tensioner  203 , such as a dancer component, into a heater  204 . The heater  204  applies heat to the spacer  16  as the spacer  16  is uncoiled from the storage spool  202 . In one embodiment, the heat supplied by the heater  204  is at a temperature that is adapted to remove any arcuate shape (e.g., memory) from the spacer  16  resulting from the spacer  16  being stored on the storage spool  202 . 
     From the heater  204 , the spacer  16  is passed through a slitting station  205 , where channels  70  (See  FIG. 4 ) are introduced to the structure of the first side  62 ′ of the spacer  16 ′, as described in the discussion of  FIG. 4 , above. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that a variety of approaches can be used to form channels  70  in a side of the spacer  16 ′. 
     The system  200  also includes a filler station  206 . The filler station  206  is adapted to insert a filler material into the interior region  60  of the spacer  16 , such as the spacer of  FIG. 3 . In one embodiment, the filler material is inserted through the channel  70  of the spacer  16 ′ of  FIG. 4 . In one embodiment, the filler material includes at least a desiccant material, such as a matrix desiccant. In another embodiment, the spacer on the spool already has a filler material. In such embodiments, the filler is inserted into the spacer during manufacture of the spacer, for example. 
     The spacer  16  can be fed into a welding station  207  in some embodiments of the system that also incorporate a slitting station  205 . The welding station  207  is configured to re-seal a channel  70  in the sidewall of the spacer  16 ′. In some examples, the welding station includes ultrasonic or micro-torch devices. 
     The spacer  16  is fed into one or more corner registration mechanism stations  208 . Each corner registration mechanism  208  is adapted to score the spacer  16  at a defined location. In the subject embodiment, the corner registration mechanism  208  is adapted to cut notches  210  (shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 ) into the spacer  16  at given intervals. The intervals between the adjacent notches  210  are chosen based on the dimensions of the first pane  12  or the second pane  14 . As the spacer  16  is fed through the corner registration mechanism  208 , the length of the spacer  16  is calculated, monitored or measured. At predetermined intervals, the notches  210  are cut by the corner registration mechanism  208 . 
     In the depicted embodiment of  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the notches  210  are generally V-shaped. Each notch  210  extends through the second strip  32 , the first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  and at least partially through the first surface  40  of the first strip  30 . In the depicted embodiment, the notch  210  defines an angle that is about 90 degrees, although the angle of the corner notch  210  can have different measurements depending on the desired angle measurement of the resultant corner in the formed spacer frame. In one embodiment, the filler material is inserted into the interior region  60  of the spacer  16  at the notches  210 . In such an embodiment, the filler station is positioned to act on the spacer after the corner registration mechanism. 
     The system  200  includes a cutter  218 . The cutter  218  cuts the spacer  16  to a desired length. In one embodiment, the cutter  218  cuts through the spacer  16  so that the first and second strips  30 ,  32  are generally equal in length. In other embodiments, the cutter  218  cuts through the spacer  16  so that the length of the first strip  30  is greater than the lengths of the second strip  32  and the first and second sidewalls  56 ,  58  (See  FIG. 3 ). 
     Referring again to  FIG. 6 , the system  200  further includes a sealant extruder  212 . The sealant extruder  212  is adapted to apply a sealant to the spacer  16  at the first and second sides  62 ,  64  of the spacer  16 . In some embodiments the spacer  16  can pass through the sealant extruder  212  before passing through the cutter  218 . The sealant is formed of a material that has adhesive properties. The sealant is adapted to fasten the spacer  16  to the first and second panes  12 ,  14  of the window assembly  10 . In one embodiment, the sealant is adapted to seal the joint formed between the spacer  16  and the first and second panes  12 ,  14  so that gas and liquid are inhibited from entering the space defined between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . Sealants suitable for use with the window assembly include polyisobutylene (PIB), butyl, curable PIB, hot melt silicon, acrylic adhesive, acrylic sealant, and other Dual Seal Equivalent (DSE) type materials. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the sealant is applied to the first side  62  of the spacer  16  so that the sealant overfills the first side  62 , which is defined by the first side portion  36  of the first strip  30 , the first sidewall  56  and the first side portion  44  of the second strip  32 . The sealant is similarly applied to the second side  64  of the spacer  16  so that the sealant overfills the second side  64 . 
     The sealant used typically has a curing time of less than about five minutes. In another embodiment the sealant used typically has a curing time of two hours. Conventional processes require the sealant to be reheated before applying to the window panes. The present process, however, does not require the sealant to be reheated because the sealant is applied just before the spacer is applied to the pane. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 6 , the system  200  further includes a storage area  214 . The storage area  214  is adapted to accumulate one or more cut lengths of spacers  16  for a temporary time period. In some embodiments, the storage area  214  is a conveyor surface area that stores a plurality of the spacer  16  segments (after having been cut) in a linear fashion on a surface. In at least one of those embodiments, the storage area  214  has two or more stacked conveyor surfaces that each store a plurality of the spacers  16  segments in a linear fashion. Such conveyor surfaces can also convey the spacer  16  segments towards additional system  200  components such as a spacer applicator assembly  220 . In one embodiment, the conveyor system has an elevator configured to move spacer segments up and down in relation to a conveyor top surface. 
     In some embodiments, it can be desirable to temporarily store the spacer before it is cut into discrete segments. In such an embodiment the storage area  214  can include a plurality of rollers and can be positioned between any adjacent pairs of stations in the system  200 . In such an example embodiment, the spacer  16  is woven through the storage rollers. The greater distance between the rollers, the greater the length of spacer  16  disposed in the storage area  214 . 
     Spacer Applicator Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6 and 9 , the desired length of spacer  16  is applied to one of the first and second panes  12 ,  14  by a spacer applicator assembly  220 . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer applicator assembly  220  includes a stand assembly  222  and a spacer applicator  224 , which comprises the “tooling”  330  of the spacer applicator assembly  220  (See  FIG. 9 , for example). 
     Stand Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the stand assembly  222  is shown. The stand assembly  222  is adapted to receive one of the first and second panes  12 ,  14  of the window assembly  10 . The first or second pane  12 ,  14  is positioned on the stand assembly  222  so that the spacer can be applied to the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . The stand assembly  222  includes a base  226  and a panel support  228 . 
     The base  226  includes a first surface  230  and an oppositely disposed second surface  232 . The base  226  includes a first end  234 , an oppositely disposed second end  236 , a first side  238  and an oppositely disposed second side  240  (See also  FIG. 9 ). The first and second sides  238 ,  240  extend between the first and second ends  234 ,  236 . In the depicted embodiment, the base  226  is generally rectangular in shape. 
     A first support  242  and a second support  244  extend outwardly from the first surface  230  of the base  226 . The first support  242  includes a first axial end  246  and an oppositely disposed second axial end  248 . The second support  244  includes a first axial end  250  and an oppositely disposed second axial end  252 . The first axial ends  246 ,  250  of the first and second supports  242 ,  244  are engaged (e.g., fastened, bolted, welded, screwed, etc.) to the first surface  230  of the base  226 . The first axial end  246  of the first support  242  is disposed adjacent to the first end  234  of the base  226  while the first axial end  250  of the second support  244  is disposed adjacent to the second end  236  of the base  226 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the first and second supports  242 ,  244  extend outwardly from the first surface  230  at a first angle α 1  with respect to a first plane P 1  (shown as a dashed line in  FIG. 11 ) that extends through the first axial ends  246 ,  250  of the first and second supports  242 ,  244  and is generally perpendicular to the base  226 . In the depicted embodiment, the first and second supports  242 ,  244  are angled toward a second plane P 2  (shown as a dashed line in  FIG. 11 ) that is generally perpendicular to the base  226  and adjacent to the second side  240  of the base  226 . 
     Generally, the first angle α 1  ranges from about 0 degrees, at which the stand assembly  222  is substantially vertical, to about 90 degrees, at which the stand assembly  222  is substantially horizontal. In at least one embodiment the angle α 1  is about 0 degrees. In another embodiment, the first angle α 1  is in the range of about 1 degree to about 40 degrees. In another embodiment, the first angle α 1  is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. In another embodiment, the first angle α 1  is in the range of about 15 degree to about 25 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the first angle α 1  ranged from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle α 1  is about 90 degrees. 
     The panel support  228  is engaged to the first and second supports  242 ,  244  at a location that is adjacent to the second axial ends  248 ,  252  of the first and second supports  242 ,  244 . The panel support  228  includes a first plurality of rail assemblies  254   a , a second plurality of rail assemblies  254   b , and a bottom roller assembly  256 . 
     Referring particularly to  FIG. 10 , the first and second pluralities of rail assemblies  254   a ,  254   b  are alternately mounted on the first and second supports  242 ,  244 . The first plurality of rail assemblies  254   a  includes a first plurality of rails  260   a  and a first plurality of rollers  262   a . In the depicted embodiment, each of the rails  260   a  has a generally rectangle cross-section. Each rail  260   a  includes a first side  264  (visible in  FIG. 11 ), an oppositely disposed second side  266 , a third side  268  and an oppositely disposed fourth side  270 . In the depicted embodiment, the first and second sides  264 ,  266  are generally parallel. The third and fourth sides  268 ,  270  extend between the first and second sides  264 ,  266 . In the depicted embodiment, the third and fourth sides  268 ,  270  are generally perpendicular to the first and second sides  264 ,  266 . 
     The first side  264  of each of the rails  260   a  is adapted for mounting to the first and second supports  242 ,  244 . The third side  268  is adapted to engage the first plurality of rollers  262   a . The first plurality of rollers  262   a  is engaged to the third side  268  of the rail  260   a  so that the rollers  262   a  rotate about an axis  272 . The axis  272  is generally parallel to the second side  266  of the rails  260   a  and generally perpendicular to the third side  268 . 
     The axis  272  of the rollers  262   a  is offset from a central longitudinal axis of the rail  260   a  (visible in  FIG. 11 ). In the depicted embodiment, the axis  272  of the rollers  262   a  is disposed adjacent to the second side  266  of the rail  260   a  so that the axis  272  of the rollers  262   a  is disposed closer to the second side  266  than the first side  264 . In the subject embodiment, the rollers  262   a  are engaged to the third side  268  of the rail  260   a  so that a portion of each roller  262   a  extends beyond the second side  266  of the rail  260   a.    
     The second plurality of rails  260   b  is substantially similar to the first plurality of rails  260   a . Each rail  260   b  includes a first side  276  (visible in  FIG. 11 ), an oppositely disposed second side  278 , a third side  280  and an oppositely disposed fourth side  282 . In the depicted embodiment, the first and second sides  276 ,  278  are generally parallel. The third and fourth sides  280 ,  282  extend between the first and second sides  276 ,  278 . In the depicted embodiment, the third and fourth sides  280 ,  282  are generally perpendicular to the first and second sides  276 ,  278 . 
     The first side  276  of each of the rails  260   b  is adapted for mounting to the first and second supports  242 ,  244 . The fourth side  282  is adapted to engage the second plurality of rollers  262   b . In the depicted embodiment, the second plurality of rollers  262   b  is engaged to the fourth side  282  of the each of the rails  260   b  so that a portion of each roller  262   b  extends beyond the second side  278  of the rail  260   b.    
     The bottom roller assembly  256  includes a rail  284  and a plurality of rollers  286  mounted to the rail  284 . Typically, at least a portion of the plurality of rollers  286  are drive rollers for positioning a pane. The rail  284  includes a first side (visible in  FIG. 11 )  288  and an oppositely disposed second side  290 . The first side  288  is adapted for mounting to the first and second supports  242 ,  244 . In the depicted embodiment, the rail  284  is disposed between the first axial ends  246 ,  250  of the first and second supports  242 ,  244  and the lowermost rail assembly  254   a ,  254   b.    
     The second side  290  is adapted for engagement with the rollers  286 . In the depicted embodiment, the rollers  286  extend outwardly from the second side  290  so that an axis of rotation  291  of the rollers  286  is generally perpendicular to the second side  290 . In the depicted embodiment, the axis of rotation  291  of the rollers  286  is generally perpendicular to the axis  272  of the rollers  262   a.    
     The panel support  228  further includes a stop  316 . In the depicted embodiment, the stop  316  is adapted to provide a positive stop for the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . In one embodiment, the stop  316  is a sensor that senses the presence of a pane in its perimeter and stops operation of relevant drivers in the system such as drive rollers. The stop  316  can also be a mechanical stop such as a mount and a pin member, in another example. In such an embodiment the mount is adapted for mounting to the rail  284  of the bottom roller assembly  256 . In the depicted embodiment, the mount is engaged to the first side of the rail  284 . 
     With the mount mounted to the bottom roller assembly  256 , the pin member is disposed between the rail  284  of the bottom roller assembly  256  and the lowermost rail assembly  254   a ,  254   b . The pin member is selectively movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the pin member extends beyond the second side  290  of rail  284  so that the first or second pane  12 ,  14  is prevented from sliding along the pane support  228 . In the second position, the pin member is retracted so that the first or second pane  12 ,  14  can slide along the pane support  228 . 
     Spacer Applicator 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12-14 , the spacer applicator  224  is shown. The spacer applicator  224  is adapted to receive spacer  100 , automatically shape the spacer into a frame, and to assemble the spacer  100  frame onto the first or second pane  12 ,  14  disposed on the stand assembly  222  (See  FIG. 10 ). The spacer applicator  224  includes spacer applicator tooling  330  and a lift assembly  332 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15-17 , the spacer applicator tooling  330  includes a first plurality of guide rails  334  and a second plurality of guide rails  336 . The first plurality of guide rails  334  is rigidly mounted to a plate  338 . In the depicted embodiment, the first plurality of guide rails  334  is mounted to the plate  338  in a parallel orientation. The plate  338  includes a first surface  340  and an oppositely disposed second surface  342 . In the depicted embodiment, the first plurality of guide rails  334  is mounted to the first surface  340  of the plate  338 . The plate  338  is coupled to a shaft  344 . The shaft  344  is centrally disposed on the plate  338  and extends outwardly from the second surface  342  of the plate  338 . In one embodiment, the shaft  344  is integral with the plate  338 . 
     The second plurality of guide rails  336  is slidably mounted to the first plurality of guide rails  334  so that the second plurality of guide rails  336  can move in a first direction  346  (shown as an arrow in  FIG. 17 ) along the first plurality of guide rails  334 . In the depicted embodiment, each of the second plurality of guide rails  336  is slidably mounted to each of the first plurality of guide rails  334 . 
     The second plurality of guide rails  336  includes a plurality of spacer retention devices  348 , which can be referred to as “corner blocks” in a variety of embodiments, despite the particular location of each device. The spacer retention devices  348  are adapted to receive the spacer  16 ,  16 ′,  100 . In one embodiment, the spacer retention devices  348  are removable so that a second set of spacer retention devices can be installed to accommodate a different spacer. 
     In the depicted embodiment, there are four spacer retention devices  348 . The spacer retention devices  348  are slidably mounted on the second plurality of guide rails  336  so that the spacer retention devices  348  can move in a second direction  350  (shown as an arrow in  FIG. 17 ) along the second plurality of guide rails  336 . In the depicted embodiment, the second direction  350  is generally perpendicular to the first direction  346 . As the spacer retention devices  348  are slidably mounted to the second plurality of guide rails  336  and as the second plurality of guide rails  336  is slidably mounted to the first plurality of guide rails  334 , the spacer retention devices  348  are adapted for movement in the first and second directions  346 ,  350 . In one embodiment, the spacer retention devices  348  are infinitely variable in the first and second directions  346 ,  350 . 
     In one embodiment, the spacer retention devices  348  are moved manually in the first and second directions  346 ,  350 . In another embodiment, sensors and actuators are used to move at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  in the first and second directions. In yet another embodiment, another type of control system is used to move at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  in the first and second directions. 
     Spacer Retention Device 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , the spacer retention device  348  is shown, consistent with an alternative embodiment. The spacer retention device  348  includes a base portion  352  and a guide portion  354 . The base portion  352  defines a channel  356   a . The channel  356  is adapted to slidably engage one of the second plurality of guide rails  336 . In the depicted embodiment, the base portion  352  defines a second channel  356   b . The second channel  356   b  is oriented at an angle relative to the channel  356   a . In the depicted embodiment, the second channel  356   b  is oriented at a 90° angle relative to the channel  356   a.    
     The guide portion  354  is generally rectangular in shape. The guide portion  354  includes an outer edge surface  358  disposed at a perimeter of the guide portion  354 . At least a portion of the outer edge surface  358  of the guide portion  354  is adapted to receive the spacer  16 ,  16 ′,  100 . 
     The outer edge surface  358  includes a first portion  358   a , an oppositely disposed second portion  358   b , a third portion  358   c  and a fourth portion  358   d . The third portion  358   c  is adjacent to the first and second portions  358   a ,  358   b . The fourth portion  358   d  is disposed opposite the third portion  358   c  and adjacent to the first and second portions  358   a ,  358   b . In the depicted embodiment, at least two adjacent portions of the outer edge surface  358  define a groove  360 . The groove  360  is adapted to receive the alignment member  126  of the spacer  100 . 
     Spacer Applicator Movement 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12 ,  15 - 17  and  19 , the spacer applicator tooling  330  is adapted to rotate about a rotation axis  362 . The rotation axis  362  is centrally disposed on the spacer applicator  330 . The rotation axis  362  is generally perpendicular to the plate  338 . In the depicted embodiment, the rotation axis  362  is a central axis of the shaft  344  of the spacer applicator  330 . 
     An actuator assembly  364  is generally coupled to the applicator tooling  330 . The actuator assembly  364  is adapted to rotate the spacer applicator tooling  330  about the rotation axis  362 . The actuator assembly  364  includes an actuator  366  and a collar  368 . In one embodiment, the actuator  366  is a rotary actuator. The actuator  366  can be electronically controlled so that speed and duration of rotation of the spacer applicator tooling  330  are controlled by a control system including, for example, a central processing unit. The collar  368  defines a bore  370  that is adapted to receive an end of the shaft  344  (See  FIG. 16 ). The actuator  366  is coupled to the shaft  344  of the spacer applicator tooling  330  at the collar  368 . 
     In one embodiment, the actuator  366  is configured to rotate the applicator tooling  330  one cycle to form a spacer frame having a closed perimeter. In some embodiments, the actuator  366  is configured to rotate the applicator tooling only 270 degrees to complete a cycle. In some other embodiments, the actuator  366  is configured to rotate the applicator tooling about 360 degrees to complete a cycle. In one embodiment, the actuator  366  can be configured to reverse-rotate the applicator tooling  330  to the same degree as the original rotation cycle. Such reverse rotation can unwind couplers, cords, and the like, that have been wound during the original 270-degree rotation. In some embodiments the reverse-rotation cycle can also be used to form a second spacer frame having a closed perimeter. In such embodiments a second spacer would be fed to the applicator tooling  330  from the opposite direction of the first spacer. 
     In a variety of embodiments the actuator  366  is configured to rotate the applicator tooling  330 . In such embodiments, a contact point between the actuator  366  and the applicator tooling  330 , such as the collar  368  or wire couplers, can be configured to rotate along with the applicator tooling  330 , with one or more bearings or the like to prevent winding of couplers, cords, and the like, during rotation of the applicator tooling  330 . 
     The spacer applicator tooling  330  is engaged to the lift assembly  332  by a mount  372 . The mount  372  is adapted to move the spacer applicator tooling  330  along a translation axis  373  that is generally perpendicular to the plate  338  of the spacer applicator  224 . In the depicted embodiment, the translation axis  373  is generally parallel to the rotation axis  362 . In one embodiment, the translation of the spacer applicator tooling  330  is electronically controlled. 
     The mount  372  includes a base portion  374  having a first end  376  and an oppositely disposed second end  378 . The base portion  374  defines a plurality of guide paths  380  that extend through the first and second ends  376 ,  378  of the base portion  374 . In the depicted embodiment, the guide paths  380  are parallel to the translation axis  373 . 
     Lift Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 20-23 , the lift assembly  332  will be described. The lift assembly  332  includes a base support  381  and a lift  382 . The lift assembly  332  is configured to move the entire tooling  330  vertically in either direction. As a result, any point or area on the tooling can be moved vertically in one embodiment. For example, in one embodiment a center area of the tooling, for example, the axis of rotation, can be moved vertically. In a variety of embodiments dynamic position adjustment of the tooling  330  during assembly of a spacer frame allows the spacer to be applied to the perimeter of the tooling throughout the cycle. Adjustment of the position of the tooling  330  will generally be vertical adjustments of the axis of rotation in many embodiments, if the tooling is oriented to mate the spacer frame to a vertically positioned pane. However, it is also possible for the tooling to be oriented to mate the spacer frame to a horizontally positioned pane. Adjustment of the vertical position of the tooling  330  can occur during the rotation cycle of the tooling. The base support  381  includes a support portion  384  and a base plate  388 . The support portion  384  includes a first end  390  and an oppositely disposed second end  392 . 
     The support portion  384  extends outwardly from the base plate  388  at a second angle α 2  relative to a vertical plane P 3  (shown as a dashed line in  FIG. 21 ) that is generally perpendicular to the base plate  388  and extends through the first end  390  of the support portion  384 . Generally, the second angle α 2  can range from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees. In an embodiment where the second angle α 2  is about 0 degrees, the pane is substantially vertical and can be supported with one or more retention devices. In one embodiment, the second angle α 2  is generally equal to the first angle α 1 . In another embodiment, the second angle α 2  is in the range of about 1 degree to about 15 degrees. In another embodiment, the second angle α 2  is in the range of about 1 degree to about 10 degrees. In another embodiment, the second angle α 2  is in the range of about 5 degree to about 10 degrees. In another embodiment, the second angle α 2  is in the range of about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the second angle α 2  is about 90 degrees and is, therefore, substantially horizontal. 
     The support portion  384  includes a plurality of slide rails  394 . The slide rails  394  extend at least partially between the first end  390  and the second end  392  of the support portion  384 . The support rails  394  include a base end  396  and a free end  398 . The base end  396  is engaged to the support portion  384 . The free end  398  extends outwardly from the support portion  384  in a generally perpendicular direction. In one embodiment, the free end  398  has a width that is greater than the base end  396 . 
     The lift  382  is slidably engaged to the base support  381 . The lift  382  includes a body  400  having a first axial end portion  402  and an oppositely disposed second axial end portion  404 . In the depicted embodiment, the body  400  includes a first wall  406  having a first side portion  408  and an oppositely disposed second side portion  410 . A second wall  412  extends outwardly from the first wall  406  at the first side portion  408  while a third wall  414  extends outwardly from the first wall  406  at the second side portion  410 . The first, second and third walls  406 ,  412 ,  414  cooperatively define a cavity  416 . The base support  381  is received in the cavity  416 . 
     The first wall  406  defines a plurality of linear tracks  418 . The linear tracks  418  are adapted to receive the slide rails  394  of the support portion  384  of the base support  381 . The linear tracks  418  are configured so that the slide rails  394  can slide in the linear tracks  418  between a first position in which the lift  382  is fully retracted and a second position in which the lift  382  is fully extended. In one embodiment, the extension of the lift  382  is electronically controlled. 
     The second axial end portion  404  of the lift  382  is adapted to engage the mount  372 . The second axial end portion  404  includes a plurality of protrusions  420  having a base end portion  422  and a free end portion  424 . The base end portion  422  is engaged to the second axial end portion  404  of the body  400  while the free end portion  424  extends outwardly from the body  400 . The plurality of protrusions  420  is adapted for sliding engagement with the plurality of guide paths  380  of the mount  372 . The engagement of the protrusions  420  and the guide paths  380  of the mount  372  allow for translation of the mount along the translation axis  373  (See  FIGS. 19 &amp; 20 ). 
     In the depicted embodiment, the width of the free end portion  424  of each of the protrusions  420  is greater than the width of the base end portions  422 . This prevents the mount  372  from being disengaged from the second axial end portion  404  of the body  400  in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the translation axis  373 . 
     Use of the Spacer Applicator 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9-23 , the use of the spacer applicator assembly  220  will be described. One of the first and second panes  12 ,  14  is positioned on the pane support  228  of the stand assembly  222 . With the dimensions of the first or second pane  12 ,  14  known, the spacer retention devices  348  of the spacer applicator  224  are moved in the first and second directions  346 ,  350  so that the spacer retention devices  348  are disposed adjacent to the perimeter of the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . In some embodiments, the spacer retention devices only move in a first direction. The height of the spacer applicator  224  is also adjusted so that the height of the tooling  330  corresponds to the height of the first or second pane  12 ,  14  on the panel support  228  of the stand assembly  222 . The differences in the height of the spacer applicator tooling  330  and the height of the first or second pane  12 ,  14  account for the second angle α 2  of the applicator  224 , the distance the applicator  224  is from the stand assembly  222 , as well as the fact that the spacer is placed on the pane such that it is inset from the edges of the pane. The height of the spacer applicator tooling  330  is adjusted by sliding the lift  382  relative to the base support  381 . In one embodiment, the height is electronically controlled. 
     The spacer  100  is fed to one of the spacer retention devices  348  of the spacer applicator  224 . 
     In one embodiment where the spacer includes an alignment member, the alignment member  126  of the spacer  100  is positioned in the groove  360  of at least one portion of the outer edge surface  358  of the guide portion  354  of the spacer retention device  348 . 
     In another embodiment, an end portion of the spacer  100  is engaged by one of the spacer retention devices  348 . For example, in one embodiment, the spacer  100  is clamped to the spacer retention device  348 . With the spacer  100  clamped to the spacer retention device  348 , the spacer applicator tooling  330  rotates about the rotation axis  362  so that the spacer  100  is disposed on the outwardly facing surfaces of the outer edge surfaces  358  of the spacer retention devices  348 . It will be understood that the phrase “outwardly facing surfaces” refers to those surfaces that do not face in a direction of another spacer retention device  348 . In other words, the tooling  330  rotates so that the spacer  100  surrounds the plurality of spacer retention devices  348 . 
     As the spacer applicator tooling  330  rotates, the notches  210  of the spacer  100  close to form distinct corners. In some embodiments, the corners are about 90 degrees, although in other embodiments, corners will have a variety of different angle measurements depending on the shape of the window and/or the desired shape of the framed spacer. For example, where the desired spacer shape is a triangular frame, a corner could be 60 degrees. Generally a corner is understood to be a location where two sides or portions of the perimeter of an insulating glazing unit or a spacer frame meet and form an angle. 
     The rotation of the spacer applicator tooling  330  is stopped after one cycle, at which point the spacer  16  forms a complete frame. In other words, after one cycle, the spacer  100  is disposed about the outwardly facing surfaces of the spacer retention devices  348 . In one embodiment, one cycle is about 270 degrees of rotation. In another embodiment, one cycle is less than about 360 degrees of rotation. In yet another embodiment, one cycle is 360 degrees of rotation. After one cycle, ends of the spacer  100  are joined together so that the spacer  100  forms a frame with a generally continuous loop or perimeter. 
     In at least one embodiment, after the spacer  100  is disposed around the plurality of spacer retention devices  348 , the spacer  100  is tensioned. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  move apart relative to each other to exert a force on the spacer  100 . Such a force places the spacer  100  in a state of tension, which can increase the stiffness of the spacer frame. Tensioning the spacer  100  can also increase the spacer frame dimensions to a relatively exact measurement. In addition, tensioning the spacer  100  can aid in the accurate placement of the spacer frame on a pane. 
     In a variety of embodiments at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  move between approximately 0.005 and 0.3 inches apart. In another embodiment at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  move between approximately 0.05 and 0.2 inches apart. In yet another embodiment at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  move between approximately 0.05 and 0.1 inches apart. Because tensioning the spacer  16  results in an increase in the dimensions of the spacer frame, it can be desirable to cut the linear spacer segment slightly shorter than the intended perimeter length of the spacer frame. 
     The spacer applicator tooling  330  moves along the translation axis  373  toward the first or second pane  12 ,  14 , which is positioned on the stand assembly  222 . The translation, or movement, of the spacer applicator tooling  330  is stopped when one of the first and second sides  62 ,  64  of the spacer  100  abuts one of the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . In one embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  330  includes a translation adjustment to account for different thickness of window panes. The spacer  100  is engaged to the pane  12 ,  14  by the sealant disposed on the first and second sides  62 ,  64 . 
     In one embodiment, springs bias the spacer retention devices  348  outwardly from the second plurality of guide rails  336 . The springs allow for angular misalignment between the stand assembly  222  and the spacer applicator tooling  330  or between the spacer  100  and the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . The springs also can absorb force when the spacer  100  contacts the pane, so that a portion of the forces are absorbed. 
     With the spacer  100  engaged to the first or second pane  12 ,  14 , the spacer applicator tooling  330  releases the spacer  100  and translates back to its initial position, or generally moves away from the first pane and spacer. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the spacer retention devices  348  move inwardly relative to each other to assist in disengaging the tooling from the spacer  100  before the tooling  330  moves away from the pane. At this point, in some embodiments, the spacer applicator tooling  330  can reverse-rotate the amount of the original rotation (and, as described above, the reverse rotation can be used to form a second spacer frame). The opposite pane of the window assembly  10  is then added. 
     Alternate Spacer Applicator Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 24-26 , an alternate embodiment of a spacer applicator assembly  500  is shown. The spacer applicator assembly  500  includes a stand assembly  502 , a spacer feed assembly  504  and a spacer applicator  506 . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer applicator assembly  500  is controlled by an electronic controller  507 . 
     The stand assembly  502  is similar in structure to the stand assembly  222  previously described. The stand assembly  502  includes a base  508  and a panel support  510 . 
     First and second supports  512   a ,  512   b  extend outwardly from the base  508 . The panel support  510  is engaged to the first and second supports  512   a ,  512   b . The panel support  510  includes the first plurality of rail assemblies  254   a , the second plurality of rail assemblies  254   b  and the bottom roller assembly  256 . As the first and second rail assemblies  254   a ,  254   b  and the bottom roller assembly  256  were previously described, as such, the first and second rail assemblies  254   a ,  254   b  and the bottom roller assembly  256  will not be further described. 
     The spacer feed assembly  504  is adapted to feed the spacer  16  to the applicator assembly  506 . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer feed assembly  504  is not mounted to stand assembly  502 . Rather, the spacer feed assembly  504  is positioned at a location that is adjacent to the stand assembly  502 . 
     Shuttle Assembly ( FIGS. 27-31 ) 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 27-31 , the spacer feed assembly  504  includes a frame  514  that supports a shuttle assembly  516 . The shuttle assembly  516  includes a drive assembly  518  (See  FIG. 28 ). In the depicted embodiment, the drive assembly  518  includes a first belt  520  and a second belt  520   b . The first belt  520   a  is disposed in a first loop configuration while the second belt  520   b  is disposed in a second loop configuration. The first and second loop configurations extend from a first end  522  of the shuttle assembly  516  to an oppositely disposed second end  524  of the shuttle assembly  516 . A first motor  526   a  is engaged to the first belt  520   a  (e.g., through a pulley, sprocket, etc.) and drives the first belt  520   a  (see  FIG. 28 ). In the depicted embodiment, a second motor  526   b  is engaged to the second belt  520   b  and drives the second belt  520   b.    
     The shuttle assembly  516  further includes a first guide bar  528   a  and a second guide bar  528   b . The first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  are rigidly engaged to the shuttle assembly  516  so that the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  are generally parallel. Each of the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  includes a first end  530  and an oppositely disposed second end  532 . 
     A shuttle  534  of the shuttle assembly is movably engaged to at least one of the first guide bar  528   a  and the second guide bar  528   b . In the depicted embodiment, the shuttle  534  includes a first axial end  536  and an oppositely disposed second axial end  538 . The shuttle  534  is adapted to move along the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  (See  FIGS. 28-29 ) between a first position and a second position. With the shuttle  534  at the first position, the first axial end  536  is immediately adjacent to the first ends  530  of the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b . With the shuttle  534  at the second position, the second axial end  538  of the shuttle  534  is immediately adjacent to the second ends  532  of the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b.    
     In the depicted embodiment, the shuttle  534  is engaged to the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  by a plurality of pillow blocks  540  (See  FIGS. 30 &amp; 31 , in particular). The pillow blocks  540  are adapted to slide along the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  between the first and second positions. In one embodiment, the pillow blocks  540  are engaged with the first and second belts  520   a ,  520   b  so that the pillow blocks  540  move along the first and second guide bars  528   a ,  528   b  when the first and second belts  520   a ,  520   b  are actuated by the first and second motors  526   a ,  526   b.    
     The shuttle  534  further includes a first clamp  542  (See  FIG. 31 , in particular) engaged to the shuttle  534  adjacent the second axial end  538  of the shuttle  534 . In the depicted embodiment, a body of the first clamp  542  is rigidly engaged to the shuttle  534 . The first clamp  542  is adapted to receive an end of the spacer  16  and to clamp that end to the shuttle  534  so that the spacer  16  can be transported from the first position of the shuttle  534  to the second position. 
     The shuttle  534  further includes a roller assembly  544  (See  FIGS. 27 &amp; 28 ). The roller assembly  544  is adapted to move axially along the shuttle  534 , independently of the shuttle  534 . The roller assembly  544  can be in mechanical communication with the first belt  520   a  or the second belt  520   b  of the drive assembly  518 . The roller assembly  544  receives a portion of the spacer  16  and applies tension to the spacer  16  as the spacer  16  is being engaged to the applicator assembly  506 . The roller assembly  544  is dynamically repositioned along the shuttle  534  based on the position of the tooling  330  of the applicator assembly relative to the spacer  16  to retain tension on the spacer  16  as the un-engaged spacer  16  length shortens. Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein will not incorporate a roller assembly  544 . 
     The shuttle  534  further includes an end roller  545  (See  FIG. 31 ). The end roller  545  is engaged to the second axial end  538  of the shuttle  534 . The end roller  545  is adapted to extend and retract. When the end roller  545  is retracted, the uppermost surface of the end roller  545  is disposed below a receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534  that receives the spacer  16 . When the end roller  545  is extended, the uppermost surface of the end roller  545  extends above the receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the shuttle  534  defines a groove  548  disposed at the receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534 . In one embodiment, the groove  548  is adapted to receive a bead or dollop of adhesive (e.g., hot melt, etc.) that is disposed on the second surface  42  of the first strip  30  of the spacer  16 . 
     Alternate Spacer Applicator 
     Referring now to  FIG. 32 , the spacer applicator  506  is shown. The spacer applicator  506  includes a tooling  550  and a lift assembly  552 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 33 and 34 , the spacer applicator tooling  550  is shown. The spacer applicator tooling  550  is similar in the spacer applicator tooling  330  of  FIG. 15  in structure and function. Therefore, it should be understood that any of the structure of the spacer applicator tooling  330  of  FIG. 15  could be applied to the spacer applicator tooling  550  of  FIG. 33 , and any of the structure of the spacer applicator tooling  550  of  FIG. 33  could be applied to the spacer applicator tooling  330  of  FIG. 15 . 
     The spacer applicator  506  includes a plate  554 . The plate  554  is coupled to a shaft  556  of a motor  558  (shown in  FIG. 32 ) and is adapted to rotate about an axis of the shaft  556 . 
     The spacer applicator tooling  550  further includes a first plurality of guide rails  560  and a second plurality of guide rails  562 . In the depicted embodiment, each of the first plurality of guide rails  560  includes a lead screw  564 . In the depicted embodiment, the lead screws  564  are threaded rods that are rotatably mounted to the plate  554  of the spacer applicator  506 . In the depicted embodiment, the first plurality of guide rails  560  is mounted to the plate  554  in a parallel orientation. 
     The second plurality of guide rails  562  is threadedly mounted to the lead screws  564  of the first plurality of guide rails  560  so that the second plurality of guide rails  562  can move in a first linear direction and an opposite second linear direction along the lead screws  564 . In the depicted embodiment, the second plurality of guide rails  562  is movable by a first actuator assembly  566 . The first actuator assembly  566  includes a motor  568  that rotates a belt  570 , which is disposed in a loop configuration. The belt  570  includes a plurality of teeth on an inner surface of the belt  570  that is adapted to engage a plurality of teeth disposed on gears  574  of the second plurality of guide rails  562 . As the gears  574  rotate, the lead screws  564  of the first plurality of guide rails  560  rotate causing the second plurality of guide rails  562  to move in one of the first and second linear directions. As the belt  570  is actuated in a first direction (e.g., clockwise), a distance between the guide rails  560  increases. As the belt  570  is actuated in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the distance between the guide rails  560  decreases. 
     Each of the second plurality of guide rails  562  includes a lead screw  576 . In the depicted embodiment, the lead screws  576  are threaded rods that are rotatable. A plurality of spacer retention devices  578  is threadedly mounted on the lead screws  576  of the second plurality of guide rails  562  so that the spacer retention devices  578  can move along the second plurality of guide rails  562  when the lead screws  576  are rotated. In the depicted embodiment, the lead screws  576  of the second plurality of guide rails  562  are generally perpendicular to the lead screws  564  of the first plurality of guide rails  560 . 
     Alternate Spacer Retention Devices 
     Referring now to  FIG. 35 , one of the spacer retention devices  578  is shown. The spacer retention device  578  includes a base portion  580  and a guide portion  582 . The base portion  580  includes a base  584 . A protrusion  586  extends outwardly from the base  584 . The protrusion defines an opening  588  that extends longitudinally through the protrusion  586 . In the depicted embodiment, the opening  588  is threaded and is adapted to receive one of the lead screws  576  of the second plurality of guide rails  562 . 
     The guide portion  582  includes a first sidewall  590  and an adjacent second sidewall  592 . In the depicted embodiment, the first sidewall  590  is disposed at a right angle from the second sidewall  592  so that the first and second sidewalls  590 ,  592  form an “L” shape. The first and second sidewalls  590 ,  592  extend outwardly from the base  584  in a direction that is opposite the direction in which the protrusion  586  extends outwardly from the base  584 . In the depicted embodiment, the first and second sidewalls  590 ,  592  are generally perpendicular to the base  584 . The first and second sidewalls  590 ,  592  include an outer edge surface that is adapted to receive the spacer  16 ,  16 ′,  100  from the spacer feed assembly  504  (See  FIG. 27 ). 
     The guide portion  582  of the spacer retention device  578  includes a plurality of clamp assemblies  596 . In the depicted embodiment, a first clamp assembly  596   a  is operatively associated with the outer edge surface of the first sidewall  590  while a second clamp assembly  596   b  is operatively associated with the outer edge surface of the second sidewall  592 . 
     Each of the first and second clamp assemblies  596   a ,  596   b  are pivotally mounted to the spacer retention device  578  at a rib  598  that extends between the first and second sidewalls  590 ,  592 . In the depicted embodiment, each of the first and second clamp assemblies  596   a ,  596   b  are pivotally mounted to the rib  598  by a pin  600 . Each of the first and second clamp assemblies  596   a ,  596   b  includes a clamp arm  602  and an actuator  604 . In the depicted embodiment, the actuators  604  of the first and second clamps  596   a ,  596   b  are solenoid actuators. In another embodiment, the actuators  604  of the first and second clamps  596   a ,  596   b  are pneumatic actuators. 
     In the depicted embodiment, the clamp arm  602  is generally “L” shaped and includes a clamping surface  610  that is adapted to abut the second surface  42  of the first strip  30  of the spacer  16 . 
     The clamp arm  602  is configured to move between two positions. In a first position, the outer edge surface is unobstructed by the clamp arm  602 . In a second position shown in  FIG. 35 , the clamp arm  602  is positioned adjacent to the outer edge surface to hold a spacer against the outer edge surface. 
     Lift Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 36-37 , the lift assembly  552  is shown. The lift assembly  552  includes a base support  622  and a lift  624 . 
     The base support  622  includes a support portion  626  and a base plate  628 . The support portion  626  includes a first end  630  and an oppositely disposed second end  632 . 
     The support portion  626  extends outwardly from the base plate  628 . In one embodiment, the support portion  626  extends outwardly from the base plate  628  at an oblique angle. 
     The support portion  626  includes a first plurality of slide rails  634 . The slide rails  634  extend at least partially between the first end  630  and the second end  632  of the support portion  626 . The slide rails  634  are generally parallel and are similar in structure to the slide rails  394  previously described. 
     The support portion  626  further includes a lead screw  640 . The lead screw  640  is generally parallel to the slide rails  634 . In the depicted embodiment, the lead screw  640  is disposed between the slide rails  634 . A motor  642  rotates the lead screw  640 . In the depicted embodiment, the motor  642  is disposed at the second end  632  of the support portion  626  and is generally coaxial with the lead screw  640 . 
     The lift  624  is engaged to the base support  622 . The lift  624  is adapted to move between the first end  630  and the second end  632  of the support portion  626  of the base support  622  in response to actuation of the motor  642 . When the lead screw  640  is rotated in a first direction (e.g., clockwise), the lift  624  moves toward the second end  632 , whereas when the lead screw  640  is rotated in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the lift  624  moves toward the first end  630 . 
     The lift  624  includes a mounting plate  644 . The mounting plate  644  is engaged to the support portion  626  by a plurality of mounting blocks  646  (See  FIG. 36 ). The mounting blocks  644  define openings that are adapted to receive the slide rails  634  of the support portion  626  so that the mounting blocks  646  can slide relative to the slide rails  634 . 
     A shelf  648  is engaged to the mounting plate  644 . In the depicted embodiment, the shelf  648  extends outwardly from the mounting plate  644  in a generally perpendicular direction. The shelf  648  includes a second plurality of slide rails  650 . The second plurality of slide rails  650  are generally perpendicular to the first plurality of slide rails  634  disposed on the support portion  626  of the base support  622 . 
     A rotary head  652  is mounted on the second plurality of slide rails  650 . The rotary head  652  is adapted to rotate the spacer applicator tooling  550  (See  FIG. 33 ). The rotary head  652  is engaged to the plate  554  of the spacer applicator  506  (See  FIGS. 33 &amp; 34 ) through mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts, weld, etc.). In addition to rotation, the rotary head  652  is adapted to move axially and/or laterally along the second plurality of rail supports  650 . 
     Use of Spacer Applicator 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 38-42 , the use of the spacer applicator  506  will be described. With the shuttle  534  in the first position, the spacer  16  is feed onto the receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534  so that the second surface  42  of the first strip  30  of the spacer  16  abuts the receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534 . In one embodiment, a sensor, which is disposed on an end of the shuttle  534 , monitors the position of the spacer  16  on the receiving surface  546 . The spacer  16  is positioned so that the notches  210  form corners of the spacer  16  when the spacer applicator tooling  550  is rotated. When the spacer  16  is appropriately positioned on the receiving surface  546 , the first clamp  542  is actuated so as to secure a first end  654  of the spacer  16  to the shuttle  534 . The shuttle  534  then moves in a first direction  660  (shown as an arrow in  FIG. 38 ) to the second position. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 39 , with the shuttle  534  in the second position, the shuttle  534  is adjacent to the spacer applicator tooling  550 . The first clamp  542  of the shuttle  534  is actuated so that the spacer  16  is no longer clamped to the shuttle  534 . The spacer applicator tooling  550  is positioned so that the outer edge surfaces  594  of two of the spacer retention devices  578  are aligned with the spacer  16  on the shuttle  534 . With the outer edge surfaces  594  of the spacer retention devices  578  aligned, the corresponding clamp assemblies  596  of the spacer retention devices  578  are actuated to secure the spacer  16  to the outer edge surfaces  594  of the spacer retention devices  578 . In the depicted embodiment, the roller assembly  544  of the shuttle  534  maintains tension on the spacer  16 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 40 , the spacer applicator tooling  550  is rotated around an axis  549  so that the spacer  16  can be secured to the outer edge surfaces  594  of the adjacent spacer retention devices  578 . In the depicted embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  550  is rotated 90 degrees. As the spacer applicator tooling  550  is rotated, the spacer applicator tooling  550  is linearly moved so that a leading edge  662  of the adjacent outer edge surface  594  is disposed in a plane that is parallel to the second surface  50  of the second strip  32  of the spacer  16  as the spacer applicator tooling  550  rotates. This movement of the tooling  550  during rotation of the tooling  550  is a dynamic adjustment of the spacer applicator tooling  550 . This dynamic adjustment of the spacer applicator tooling  550  is adapted to maintain or promote contact between the second surface  42  of the first strip  30  of the spacer  16  and the receiving surface  546  of the shuttle  534  prior to engagement of the spacer  16  by the applicator tooling  550 . In one embodiment, the corresponding clamp assemblies  596  of the spacer retention devices  578  are actuated to secure the spacer  16  to the spacer retention devices  578 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 41 and 42 , the shuttle  534  is retracted toward the first position after the spacer  16  has been secured to the outer edge surfaces  594  of all of the spacer retention devices  578 . In one embodiment, a second end  664 , which is opposite the first end  654 , of the spacer  16  includes a tab  668 . The tab  668  is formed from the first strip  30  of the spacer  16 . With the spacer  16  disposed about the spacer retention devices  578 , the end roller  545  is actuated so that the end roller  545  presses the tab  668  onto the first strip  30  at the first end  654  of the spacer  16 . In one embodiment, the second surface  42  of the first strip  30  at the first end  654  of the spacer  16  includes an adhesive that bonds the tab  668  of the first end  654 . 
     The end roller  545  is then retracted. The shuttle  534  is then moved to the first position to receive the spacer  16  for the next window assembly  10 . 
     With the spacer  16  disposed about the plurality of spacer retention devices  578 , the spacer applicator tooling  550  is moved toward the first or second pane  12 ,  14  disposed on the stand assembly  502  so that the spacer  16  abuts the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . The clamp assemblies  596  are released and the spacer retention devices  578  are contracted so that the spacer  16  no longer abuts the outer edge surfaces  594  of the spacer retention devices  578 . The spacer applicator tooling  550  is moved away from the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . 
     The first or second pane  12 ,  14  with the spacer  16  advances to a next station where the second or first pane  14 ,  12  is added. The second or first pane  14 ,  12  is pressed into abutment with the spacer  16  to form the window assembly  10 . In some embodiments, after the window assembly  10  is formed, the window assembly  10  is sent to a station in which a gas is injected into the space between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . 
       FIG. 43  is a schematic representation of an alternative result to that depicted in  FIG. 42 , based on an alternative method consistent with the technology disclosed herein. In such an embodiment, the joint  665  between the first end  654  of the spacer  16  and the second end  664  of the spacer is offset from the corner of the spacer retention device  578 . The first end  654  of the spacer  16  is disposed on the spacer retention device  578  at a particular distance from the corner. Likewise, the second end  664  of the spacer  16 , which may or may not include a tab, is also disposed about the spacer retention device  578  to be offset from the corner. In such an embodiment it can be desirable to position a patch over the joint  665  defined by the first end  654  and second end  664  of the spacer  16 . 
     Process 
     Referring now to  FIG. 44 , a process  700  used to make the window assembly  10  will be described. The process  700  uses the system  200 , which has been previously described. In the depicted embodiment, the process  700  is broken up into three functional groups. The first group  702  includes the spacer preparation function, including the cutter/extruder function. The second group  704  includes the spacer frame assembly, including the applicator function. The third group  706  includes the pane-positioning function. Those having skill in the art will recognize that some of the process steps reflected herein can be removed, replaced, and/or switched around and remain consistent with the technology disclosed. In some embodiments, the second group  702  also includes the step of heating the spacer to remove any arcuate shapes before extruding a filler material. In some embodiments, the second group  702  also includes the step of slitting a side wall of the spacer before extruding the filler material. In some embodiments, the second group  702  also includes the step of welding the slit after the step of extruding the filler material. 
     In the first group  702 , processing information regarding the spacer  16  is received by an electronic controller in step  710 . In step  712 , the filler material is extruded at the filler station  206 . In step  714 , the corner registration mechanism  208  cuts the notches  210 . In one embodiment, the length of the spacer  16  is also cut. In step  716 , the sealant extruder  212  extrudes the sealant. 
     In the second group  704 , the spacer  16  is fed to the applicator assembly  506  by the spacer feed assembly  504  in step  718 . The shuttle  534  is extended to the second position to feed the spacer  16  to the applicator assembly  506 . One of the clamp assemblies  596  of one of spacer retention devices  578  of the applicator assembly  506  clamps the spacer  16  to the outer edge surface  594  of the spacer retention device in step  720 . 
     In step  722 , the applicator assembly  506  is rotated so that the spacer  16  is disposed about the spacer retention devices  578 . In step  724 , the end roller  545  presses the tab  688  of the spacer  16  onto the first strip  30  at the first end  654  of the spacer  16 . The spacer  16  is then applied to the second pane  14  in step  726  while the shuttle  534  is returned to the first position in step  728 . In some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein, no tab is incorporated into the structure of the spacer. In some embodiments, an end of the spacer  16  is not aligned with the corner of any of the spacer retention devices  578 . Instead, a joint  665  (See  FIG. 43 ) between the two ends of the spacer  16  is offset from any corner of the spacer frame. For these embodiments, an end portion of the spacer can be pressed toward the other end of the spacer by the end roller  545  to complete perimeter of the spacer frame. 
     In the third group  706 , the first and second panes  12 ,  14  are moved into position for assembly in step  730 . The second pane  14  is positioned on the stand assembly  502  in step  732 . Pane positioning technology is generally known in the art. Many different types of pane positioning equipment can be used with the systems described herein, such as equipment available from GED Integrated Solutions, Twinsburg, Ohio, USA and from LiSEC Group of Companies, Hausmening, Austria. 
     In one embodiment, two panes move along an assembly line sequentially toward a spacer applicator, destined to be joined together in a double pane window assembly. The first pane moves past a spacer applicator assembly. In one embodiment, that first pane is stopped at a next station and is secured to a pane positioning device. In one embodiment, a suction device is used to secure the first pane. In another embodiment, a clamping device acting on the edges of the first pane is used to secure the first pane instead of a suction device. Meanwhile, the second pane in the sequence is stopped at the spacer applicator assembly, where a spacer frame complete with sealant is assembled and attached to the second pane, forming a pane and spacer frame subassembly. Then the pane and spacer frame subassembly is moved along the assembly line toward the first pane. The pane positioning device brings the first pane into contact with the pane and spacer frame subassembly to form a double pane window assembly. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 44 and 45 , the occurrence of many of these process steps described herein can overlap and occur simultaneously in an automated fashion. For example, as the second group  704  is shaping a first spacer  16  for a first window assembly, the first group  702  can be preparing a second spacer  16  for a second window assembly  10 . After the first spacer  16  has been applied to the first or second pane  12 ,  14 , the third function  706  can be positioning the first and second panes  12 ,  14  for application of the second prepared spacer  16 . A pane positioning device, one or more pane preparation devices, and an automated spacer applicator assembly are configured to operate substantially simultaneously in some embodiments. This overlap of functions can decrease the overall cycle time of the spacer applicator assembly  500 . Examples of spacer preparation devices include the heater, the corner registration mechanism, the filler applicator, the sealant extruder, and the cutter. In such an embodiment, many components can operate on the same length of spacer, or on different lengths of spacers. In one particular embodiment, the corner registration mechanism, filler applicator, sealant extruder and cutter are configured to operate substantially simultaneously on the same length of spacer. 
     Triple Pane 
     Referring now to  FIG. 46 , an alternate embodiment of a spacer  800  is shown. The spacer  800  includes a first strip  802  of material and a second strip  804  of material. The spacer  800  further includes a first sidewall  806  and a second sidewall  808 . The first and second sidewalls  806 ,  808  extend between the first strip  802  and the second strip  804 . 
     The second strip  804  defines a channel  810  that extends longitudinally along the second strip  804 . The channel  810  is adapted to receive a third pane  812  (shown in  FIG. 47 ), which is generally the middle pane in a triple pane window assembly. In the depicted embodiment, the channel  810  is disposed between the first and second sidewalls  806 ,  808 . Some materials and configurations described earlier in this application for other spacer embodiments can be similar or the same to spacer configurations consistent with a triple pane spacer embodiment. 
     In the depicted embodiment of  FIG. 46 , a sealant  814  is disposed in the channel  810 . The sealant  814  is adapted to seal the joint formed between the spacer  800  and the third pane  812 . Sealants suitable for use in the channel  810  include polyisobutylene (PIB), butyl, curable PIB, hot melt silicon, acrylic adhesive, acrylic sealant, and other Dual Seal Equivalent (DSE) type materials. 
     In the depicted embodiment of  FIG. 46 , the sealant  814  is also disposed at a first side  816  of the spacer  800  and an oppositely disposed second side  818  of the spacer  800 . The sealant  814  at the first and second sides  816 ,  818  is adapted to bond the spacer  800  between the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 47 , an alternate embodiment of the spacer applicator  820  is shown. It will be understood that the spacer applicator tooling  820  can include any of the features or structures of the previously described spacer applicator tooling  330 ,  550 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  820  includes a plurality of pane retention devices  822  that is adapted to receive the third pane  812 . In one embodiment, the pane retention devices  822  are interchangeable with the spacer retention devices  348 ,  578 . The spacer applicator tooling  820  is adapted engage the spacer  800  to the third pane  812  and to assemble the third pane  812  to one of the first and second panes  12 ,  14 . 
     In one embodiment, each of the pane retention devices  822  includes a suction device  824  for securing the third pane  812  to the spacer applicator tooling  820 . In some embodiments, a plurality of suctions devices can be incorporated in the system. In one embodiment, the suction device  824  or the tooling  820  includes a mount  826 . In one embodiment, the pane retention device  822  has a single suction device. Other pane retention devices  822  can also be used, such as one or more clamps at perimeter locations on the pane. Such clamps can be controlled to release from an edge of the pane in order to allow the spacer to be applied to that edge, and then to clamp to that edge after the spacer is applied. Another option is retention devices that clamp by exerting opposing forces on each side of a central portion of the pane. The mount  826  is adapted to receive the third pane  812 . In a variety of embodiments the mount  826  is rotatable. In one embodiment, suction secures the third pane  812  to the mount  826 . In another embodiment, the suction is generated by a vacuum generating device. 
     With the third pane  812  secured to the mount  826  of the spacer applicator tooling  820 , the spacer feed assembly  504  positions the spacer  800  so that an edge  828  of the third pane  812  is aligned adjacent to the channel  810  in the spacer  800 . The sealant  814  in the channel  810  bonds the spacer  800  to the third pane  812 . As the spacer applicator mount  826  rotates, the spacer  800  is wrapped about the edge  828  of the third pane  812 . A rotary actuator assembly is coupled to the mount  826  in a variety of embodiments, and is configured to rotate the mount  826  about an axis. Features of the rotation and control process described herein with respect to various spacer applicator devices also apply to the applicator  820 . 
     With the spacer  800  disposed about the edge  828  of the third pane  812 , the spacer applicator tooling  820  and, therefore, the mount  826 , is linearly actuated to engage the first side  816  of the spacer  800  to the first pane  12 . In a variety of embodiments, the mount  826  is linearly actuated in a direction generally perpendicular to its rotation axis. 
     Generally, the rotation of the mount  826  undergoes to wrap the spacer  800  around the perimeter of the third pane  812  will be referred to as a “cycle.” In one embodiment the mount  826  can be configured to rotate no more than about 270 degrees to complete a cycle. In one embodiment, the mount is rotated less than 360 degrees to complete a cycle. In another embodiment, the mount  826  is configured to rotate about 360 degrees to complete a cycle. 
     In some embodiments the mount  826  can further be configured to reverse-rotate after completing one or more cycles. Some of those embodiments can use the reverse-rotation to wrap a second spacer around the perimeter of another third pane. In such embodiments the next third pane will be mounted to the applicator tooling  820  as preparation for the reverse-rotation cycle, and a second spacer will be fed to the spacer applicator  820  on the opposite side of the spacer applicator  820  compared to the first spacer. In a variety of embodiments, the mount  826  is configured to rotate continuously in a single direction, or in two directions. 
     The sealant  814  at the first side  816  of the spacer  800  bonds the spacer  800  to the first pane  12 . At another station, the second pane  14  is bonded to the second side  818  of the spacer  800  by the sealant  814  at the second side  818  of the spacer  800 . 
     Alternate Spacer Applicator 
     Referring now to  FIG. 48 , a schematic representation of an alternate embodiment of spacer applicator tooling  850  is shown. It will be understood that the spacer applicator tooling  850  can include any of the features or structures of the previously described spacer applicator tooling  330 ,  550 ,  820 . The spacer applicator tooling  850  includes a plurality of spacer retention devices  852 . The spacer retention devices  852  are engaged to plurality of rails  854  that extends radially outward from a plate  856 . In one embodiment, each of the rails  854  can extend or retract and can pivot about an axis in order to adjust the placement of the spacer retention devices  852  to accommodate different window pane sizes. In another embodiment, the spacer retention devices  852  move along the rails  854  to adjust the placement of the spacer retention devices  852 . 
     Example Spacer Applicator Tooling 
       FIGS. 49-55  depict a variation in spacer applicator tooling. Such tooling is generally configured to shape a spacer  900 , and retain the shape of the spacer  900  consistently with the shape of a corresponding window pane to which the spacer will be applied. Each of the figures depicts a spacer  900  disposed adjacent to the tooling of the spacer applicator, where the spacer applicator tooling includes a first plurality of guide rails  920  and a second plurality of guide rails  910 , similar to the embodiment description associated with  FIG. 15 . Other configurations are also contemplated, as will be appreciated by those having skill in the art. 
       FIG. 49  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a non-rectangular shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  902  has a first spacer retention device  932  that defines a curved top edge for retaining a similar shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. Two corner spacer retention devices  930  define bottom corner structures for retaining the bottom corner shapes of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. 
       FIG. 50  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a rectangular shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  904  has four spacer retention devices  934  defining corner locations for retaining corner shapes of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. Additionally, the spacer applicator tooling  904  has four additional spacer retention devices  936  further defining a retaining structure for the sides of the spacer  900  extending between the corners. 
       FIG. 51  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a non-rectangular shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  906  has four spacer retention devices  938 ,  940  defining corner structures for retaining the shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. However, the spacer  900  disposed between the two bottom spacer retention devices  940  can allow for spacer curvature  960  along the bottom of the spacer  900  shape. Such a configuration can be implemented by, for example, reducing the spacer tension along that segment of the spacer  900  while applying the spacer to the applicator tooling  906  between the bottom spacer retention devices  940 . Other techniques can also be used. 
       FIG. 52  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a rectangular shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  908  has a total of eight spacer retention devices  942 ,  944 . Four spacer retention devices  944  define corner structures for retaining similar corner shapes of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. Two additional spacer retention devices  942  define the horizontal sides extending between pairs of corner spacer retention devices  940  to assist in retaining the shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. 
       FIG. 53  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a triangular shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  912  has three spacer retention devices  946 ,  948 . Each spacer retention device  946 ,  948  defines a corner structure for retaining a similar shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. The geometry of each spacer retention device  946 ,  948 , including defined angles and lengths can largely depend on the particular window shape, the desired shape of the spacer  900 , and the level of support needed to retain the spacer  900  in the particular shape. 
       FIG. 54  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a trapezoidal shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  914  has four spacer retention devices  950 ,  952 . Each spacer retention device  950 ,  952  defines a corner structure for retaining a similar shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. 
       FIG. 55  is a schematic of a window spacer frame surrounding applicator tooling configured to accommodate a window having a hexagonal shape. In this particular embodiment, the spacer applicator tooling  916  has six substantially similar spacer retention devices  954 . Each spacer retention device  954  defines a corner structure for retaining a similar shape of a spacer  900  disposed thereon. 
     Example Triple Pane Window Assembly 
       FIG. 56  depicts a partial perspective view of one implementation of a triple pane window assembly described herein. A window assembly  1300  includes a first pane  1310 , a second pane  1320 , an intermediary pane or third pane  1330  and a spacer  1340  disposed between the first pane  1310  and the second pane  1320 . The first pane  1310  defines a first pane surface  1312 , a second pane surface  1314 , and a perimeter  1316 . The intermediary pane defines a third pane surface  1332 , a fourth pane surface  1334 , and a perimeter  1336 . The second pane  1320  defines a fifth pane surface  1322 , a sixth pane surface  1324 , and a perimeter  1326 . The intermediary pane  1330  is positioned substantially equidistant to the first pane  1310  and the second pane  1320 , so the size of a first air space  1380  is equal to the size of the second air space  1390 , although such configuration is not necessarily integral to the design of the window assembly  1300 . 
     The spacer  1340  generally has a first elongate strip  1350 , a second elongate strip  1360 , and support legs  1370  that define an interior cavity  1372  configured to receive a filler material  1368 . A first pocket  1364  is defined between a portion of the second surface  1314 , the first elongate strip  1350 , the second elongate strip  1360 , and the support leg  1370 . A second pocket  1366  is defined between a portion of the fifth surface  1322 , the first elongate strip  1350 , the second elongate strip  1360 , and the support leg  1370 . 
     Visible in  FIG. 56 , the first elongate strip  1350  defines a plurality of apertures  1352 , which allow the first air space  1380  and the second air space  1390  to be in fluid communication. The side of the first elongate strip  1350  corresponding to the second air space  1380  defines a similar number of apertures  1352  as the side of the elongate strip  1350  corresponding to the first air space  1380 .  FIG. 8  depicts a schematic top view of the component of  FIGS. 6 and 7 , such that the apertures  1352  are directly visible. 
     The second elongate strip  1360  is substantially planar. The first elongate strip  1350  has planar regions  1351  on each side of a registration structure  1356  having a base  1357  defined substantially central to the width of the spacer  1340 . The base  1357  is offset below the planar regions by an offset distance H R , which is approximately 0.060 inches in the current embodiment. The support legs  1370  are approximately 0.030 inches wide (W L ) in this embodiment, and the height H S  of the spacer is approximately 0.200 inches tall. Channels  1362  defined by the support legs  1370  and the first and second elongate strips  1350 ,  1360  have a width W C  of approximately 0.075 inches. 
     Additional embodiments of triple pane window assemblies and triple pane spacers are described in U.S. Provisional Application 61/424,545, filed on Dec. 17, 2010 and titled “TRIPLE PANE SPACER, WINDOW ASSEMBLY AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SAME”, which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety. 
     Additional Embodiment of a Spacer Retention Device 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 57 and 58 , yet another alternate spacer retention device  1200  is illustrated. The spacer retention device  1200  can be used as a part of the tooling of any of the spacer applicator systems described herein, or with other spacer applicator systems. The spacer retention device  1200  serves to hold spacer to the tooling as the tooling is rotated to form a spacer frame. Clamp  1202  and clamp  1204  serve to hold a spacer to an outer surface  1208  of the spacer retention device  1200 . 
     In spacer retention device  1200 , the outer surface  1208  forms a ninety degree angle. In other embodiments the outer surface of the spacer retention device forms other angles, depending on the desired corner angles of the spacer frame and window assembly. 
     Claims  1202  and  1204  are controlled by actuators  1210  and  1212  respectively. The clamps  1202  and  1204  are capable of a first clamping position shown in  FIGS. 57-58 , where they are positioned to hold a spacer against an outer surface  1208 . The clamps  1202 ,  1204  are moveable into a second position where they do not obstruct the outer surface  1208 . Actuators  1210  and  1212  are configured to cause the clamps  1202  and  1204  move between the first and second positions. In one embodiment, the actuators  1210 ,  1212  are configured to move clamps  1202 ,  1204  away from the outer surface  1208  along axis  1214  and axis  1216 , respectively. Also, the actuators are configured to cause the clamp  1202  and clamp  1204  to rotate about axis  1214  and axis  1216  respectively, so that the outer surface  1208  is unobstructed by clamps  1202  and  1204 . In one embodiment, the actuators  1210  and  1212  are pneumatic cylinders configured to provide the rotational and axial movement of the clamps between the two positions. 
     Spacer retention device  1200  includes a base  1218  that is configured to secure the spacer retention device to a tooling of a spacer applicator. In one embodiment, the base  1218  of is configured to secure the spacer retention device  1200  to guide rails of a spacer applicator. In one embodiment the base  1218  is secured to the second plurality of guide rails  562  shown in  FIG. 34 . 
     In one embodiment, spacer retention device  1218  includes a biasing assembly  1220  that allows for some movement of the spacer retention device  1200  along an axis of the biasing assembly. In one embodiment, biasing assembly bias the spacer retention device  1200  outwardly from the second plurality of guide rails. In one embodiment, the biasing assembly  1220  includes a spring. In another embodiment, biasing assembly  1220  includes a pneumatic cylinder. The biasing assembly allows for angular misalignment between the stand assembly  222  and the spacer applicator tooling  330  or between the spacer  100  and the first or second pane  12 ,  14 . In one embodiment, as the spacer frame held by the plurality of spacer retention devices is brought into contact with a pane of glass, the biasing assembly is  1220  is compressed and provides a biasing force to the spacer retention device in the direction of the pane. 
     Various modifications and alterations of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure, and it should be understood that the scope of this disclosure is not to be unduly limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.