Tape

Abstract

A method and apparatus for applying and removing a strip of tape to a surface. The tape having a width dimension and a longer length dimension wherein the tape has a greater tensile strength than a cured compound covering the tape. The tape applicable to panel surfaces and panel joints and removeable after the compound has cured on the tape.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 782,358, filed Mar. 15, 2006, and U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 777,188, filed Feb. 27, 2006, both of which are here incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus and method for taping a surface and removing the tape. Particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for securing and removing tape from panel surfaces. More particularly still, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for taping a panel joint and or taping panel fasteners; and then removing the tape and fasteners during disassembly of the panels.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]In the erection of panels for use in homes, facilities and buildings, surface panels are often secured to support elements such as studs. T...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]The present disclosure generally relates to a strip of tape having a width dimension and a longer length dimension. The tape has a greater resistance to a pulling force than a cured compound. The tape may be more resistant to a pulling force along the length than the width.

[0011]The present disclosure further relates to a method of removing a tape from a surface by applying the tape to the surface typically in one continuous length. Pulling the tape along the reinforced length dimension. Removing the tape without breaking the tape. The tape has a reinforced length dimension.

Problems solved by technology

The removal and disposal of gypsum board sheathing and other panels is becoming an increased environmental problem.

Hydrogen sulfide gas is toxic, even lethal to humans, and is detected by a foul, rotten-egg odor.

Thus, the disposal of gypsum board sheathing, once removed, has become a problem.

Currently, however, only 20-30% of the gypsum may be recovered from the used gypsum board sheathing.

Further, the recycling of the gypsum board sheathing creates added cost in transporting it to a recycle center.

Further, toxic mold is a major problem facing homes, apartments, hotels, and hospitals due to water overflow from fixture overflow and roof / envelope leaks.

The problem with taped joints in gypsum board sheathing or other panels is that the removal of the panel is difficult without destroying the panel.

Thus, accessing and removing the tape to access the fasteners is difficult.

Current gypsum board sheathing tapes on the market are not designed for removal and thus will routinely break when pulled once the compound has cured near maximum strength.

Currently the American Society of Testing and Materials ASTM, requires a performance for the width dimension of the tape; however, it does not regulate the performance of the length of the tape.

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