Plastic extrusion strip for anchoring insulation board on concrete structures

US20260297929A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-10-01BENBROOK RANDY
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Patent Information

Application Number
US19/094378
Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Applications(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-28
Publication Date
2026-10-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the construction industry, the process of attaching insulation to concrete structures is often labor-intensive and costly.

Benefits of technology

[0004]In one aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a plastic extrusion embedment strip for anchoring rigid insulation board to a concrete foundation or wall, the plastic extrusion embedment strip comprising a spine extending longitudinally, the spine having a plurality of apertures formed therein for allowing concrete to flow therethrough to form a mechanical bond; and first and second channels defined on opposite sides of the spine for receiving the rigid insulation board; wherein the plastic extrusion embedment strip is positioned in a concrete form adjacent to the rigid insulation board prior to the pouring of concrete, allowing the poured concrete to engage the plurality of apertures and permanently secure the rigid insulation board to the foundation or wall.

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Abstract

A plastic extrusion embedment strip for anchoring rigid insulation board to concrete structures simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for post-cure mechanical fastening. The strip features a longitudinal spine with apertures that allow concrete to flow through, forming a mechanical bond, and channels for receiving insulation boards. Positioned in a concrete form before pouring, the strip secures the insulation board to the foundation or wall. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), it enhances durability and weather resistance. This innovative solution reduces labor and material costs while improving the durability and efficiency of insulation installation in construction projects.
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Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] In the construction industry, the process of attaching insulation to concrete structures is often labor-intensive and costly. Traditional methods typically involve mechanically fastening insulation boards to cured concrete surfaces, which requires drilling and the use of additional materials such as screws and mounting strips. This approach not only increases labor costs and time but also introduces potential issues such as material degradation over time, particularly with components that may rust.

[0002] Moreover, the current methods can be inefficient and cumbersome, as they necessitate multiple steps after the concrete has set. This can lead to delays in construction timelines and increased overall project costs. There is a clear need for a more efficient, cost-effective solution that simplifies the process of securing insulation to concrete structures, reducing labor and material expenses while enhancing the durability and longevity of the installation.

[0003] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a plastic extrusion embedment strip for anchoring rigid insulation board to a concrete foundation or wall, the plastic extrusion embedment strip comprising a spine extending longitudinally, the spine having a plurality of apertures formed therein for allowing concrete to flow therethrough to form a mechanical bond; and first and second channels defined on opposite sides of the spine for receiving the rigid insulation board; wherein the plastic extrusion embedment strip is positioned in a concrete form adjacent to the rigid insulation board prior to the pouring of concrete, allowing the poured concrete to engage the plurality of apertures and permanently secure the rigid insulation board to the foundation or wall.

[0005] In a preferred embodiment, the plastic extrusion embedment strip is high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to enhance durability and weather resistance; wherein the spine includes ribbing or a thicker central section to increase structural integrity and load-bearing capacity; wherein the plurality of apertures are circular and have a diameter of 0.5 inches to optimize concrete flow and bonding strength; wherein the first and second channels have a width of 2 inches and a depth of 1 inch to accommodate different thicknesses of rigid insulation board; further comprising alignment guides or clips for precise positioning in the concrete form; wherein the spine includes barbs or flanges to enhance the mechanical bond between the embedment strip and the concrete; further comprising expansion joints to account for thermal expansion and contraction.

[0006] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a plastic extrusion strip in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0008] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a plastic extrusion strip in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0009] FIG. 3 is a detailed side view of the plastic extrusion strip of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a top cross-sectional view of a plastic extrusion strip taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

[0011] FIG. 5 is a top cross-sectional view of a plastic extrusion strip of the present invention, shown in use securing an insulation board within a concrete form;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a top cross-sectional exploded view of a plastic extrusion strip taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a top cross-sectional exploded view of a plastic extrusion strip taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5;

[0014] FIG. 8 is a top cross-sectional exploded view of a plastic extrusion strip taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5; and

[0015] FIG. 9 is a top cross-sectional exploded view of a plastic extrusion strip with the concrete form ties installed.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017] In the construction industry, the process of attaching insulation to concrete structures presents significant challenges. Traditional methods typically involve mechanically fastening insulation boards to cured concrete surfaces. This approach requires drilling into the concrete and using additional materials such as screws and mounting strips. Such methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly. Moreover, the mechanical fastening process can lead to potential issues such as material degradation over time, particularly with components that may rust or corrode. These drawbacks not only increase labor costs and time but also introduce inefficiencies that can delay construction timelines and elevate overall project expenses.

[0018] The existing technology in this field primarily consists of systems that rely on post-cure mechanical fastening techniques. These systems, while effective in securing insulation, often result in increased time and material costs. The need for drilling and screwing into the concrete after curing adds complexity to the construction process. Additionally, metal components used in these systems are susceptible to rust, which can compromise the integrity and longevity of the installation. Consequently, there is a clear need for a more efficient, cost-effective solution that simplifies the process of securing insulation to concrete structures, reducing labor and material expenses while enhancing the durability and longevity of the installation.

[0019] The present invention addresses these and other challenges by introducing a novel plastic extrusion embedment strip designed for anchoring rigid insulation board to a concrete foundation or wall. This innovative solution allows for the embedment strip and insulation board to be positioned within the concrete form prior to the pouring of concrete. The plastic extrusion embedment strip comprises a spine with a plurality of apertures that enable concrete to flow through, forming a mechanical bond. Additionally, the strip features first and second channels on opposite sides of the spine for receiving the rigid insulation board. This design ensures that the insulation is securely anchored to the concrete structure during the pouring process, eliminating the need for post-cure mechanical fastening and the associated drawbacks.

[0020] The plastic extrusion embedment strip of the present invention offers a novel solution for anchoring rigid insulation boards to concrete foundations or walls. By incorporating a spine with multiple apertures, the strip allows concrete to flow through these apertures during the pouring process, creating a mechanical bond that secures the insulation board in place. This design removes the need for post-cure mechanical fastening, such as drilling and screwing, which are labor-intensive and time-consuming. The first and second channels on opposite sides of the spine are specifically designed to receive the rigid insulation board, ensuring a secure fit and alignment within the concrete form. This arrangement not only simplifies the installation process but also enhances the durability and longevity of the insulation attachment by integrating the insulation board directly into the concrete structure. The embedment strip's capability to be positioned adjacent to the insulation board prior to concrete pouring streamlines the construction process, reducing labor costs and potential delays associated with traditional methods. This approach also mitigates issues related to material degradation, such as rusting of metal components, thereby improving the overall reliability and performance of the insulation system.

[0021] In various embodiments, the plastic extrusion embedment strip for anchoring rigid insulation board to a concrete foundation or wall can be adapted to suit different construction needs and environmental conditions. One embodiment may utilize a plastic material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) instead of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to provide enhanced flexibility and ease of installation in colder climates. Another embodiment could feature a spine with a varying number of apertures, such as a denser pattern of smaller apertures, to optimize the mechanical bond with the concrete in applications where increased load-bearing capacity is required. The channels on either side of the spine may be designed with adjustable widths and depths to accommodate a range of insulation board thicknesses, allowing for greater versatility in different building projects. Additionally, the embedment strip could incorporate integrated thermal breaks within the channels to improve the overall thermal efficiency of the insulation system. In yet another embodiment, the strip may include a modular design with detachable sections, enabling easy customization of length and configuration to fit specific formwork dimensions. These variations ensure that the embedment strip can be tailored to meet diverse construction requirements while maintaining the fundamental functionality of securely anchoring insulation boards to concrete structures.

[0022] FIGS. 1-4 show a plastic extrusion strip constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The extrusion strip 10 includes a front retainer 12A, a rear retainer 12B, a spline 14, holes 16, slots 20B and 20C to accept concrete form ties (CFT) 20D (see FIG. 9), outside corner section (OCS) 22, and an outside corner clip (OCC) 24. These components interact to secure the rigid insulation 18 within the concrete wall 20 (see FIG. 5, by way of example).

[0023] The extrusion strip 10 serves as a central component that holds the rigid insulation 18 in place. The design allows the strip to fit snugly against the rigid insulation 18, ensuring stability during the concrete pouring process. The extrusion strip 10 operates in conjunction with the front retainer 12A and the rear retainer 12B to maintain the position of the rigid insulation 18.

[0024] The front retainer 12A and the rear retainer 12B are positioned on opposite sides of the spline 14. These retainers provide additional support to the extrusion strip 10, ensuring that the rigid insulation 18 remains securely in place. The spline 14 extends longitudinally and is equipped with holes 16 that allow concrete to flow through, forming a mechanical bond with the concrete wall 20.

[0025] The holes 16 are strategically placed along the spline 14 to optimize the flow of concrete and enhance the bonding strength between the plastic extrusion strip and the concrete wall 20. This design ensures that the rigid insulation 18 is firmly anchored within the concrete structure.

[0026] The rigid insulation 18 is positioned adjacent to the concrete wall 20, providing thermal insulation. The concrete wall 20 is reinforced with concrete form ties (CFT) 20D which extend through slots 20B and 20C, with concrete form ties (CFT) 20D helping maintain the structural integrity of the wall during the curing process.

[0027] The outside corner section (OCS) 22 and the outside corner clip (OCC) 24 are used to secure the plastic extrusion strip at the corners of the concrete wall 20. These components ensure that the strip conforms to the shape of the wall, providing a seamless and secure fit.

[0028] FIG. 3 shows a detailed side view of a extrusion strip, highlighting the interaction between the front retainer 12A, rear retainer 12B, spline 14, and 16. These components work together to secure the rigid insulation board within the concrete form, ensuring stability and alignment during the concrete pouring process.

[0029] The front retainer 12A is positioned on one side of the spline 14, providing additional support to the extrusion strip 10. The front retainer 12A ensures that the insulation board remains securely in place, preventing any lateral movement during the concrete pouring process. The front retainer 12A works in tandem with the rear retainer 12B to maintain the alignment and stability of the insulation board.

[0030] The rear retainer 12B is located on the opposite side of the spline 14, complementing the function of the front retainer 12A. The rear retainer 12B provides additional support to the extrusion strip 10, ensuring that the insulation board remains securely anchored within the concrete form. The rear retainer 12B, along with the front retainer 12A, helps maintain the structural integrity of the insulation system during the concrete pouring process.

[0031] The spline 14 extends longitudinally and is equipped with holes 16 that allow concrete to flow through, forming a mechanical bond with the concrete structure. The strategic placement of holes 16 along the spline 14 optimizes the flow of concrete, enhancing the bonding strength between the plastic extrusion strip and the concrete wall 20. This design ensures that the insulation board is firmly anchored within the concrete structure, providing long-term stability and durability.

[0032] FIGS. 5-9 depict top cross-sectional views illustrating the embedment of a plastic extrusion strip 10 within a concrete wall for securing insulation. The figures includes an extrusion strip 10, rigid insulation 18, concrete wall 20, concrete form 20A, outside corner section 22, and outside corner clip 24. As seen in FIG. 9, the concrete form ties 20D extend through slots 20B and 20C in flange 10 to help maintain the structural integrity of the wall during curing.

[0033] The extrusion strip 10 is positioned to hold the rigid insulation 18 securely against the concrete wall 20. This arrangement ensures that the insulation remains stable during the concrete pouring process, providing effective thermal insulation once the concrete has cured.

[0034] The rigid insulation 18 is shown adjacent to the concrete wall 20, illustrating its role in providing thermal insulation to the structure. The concrete wall 20 is formed within the concrete form 20A, which serves as a mold during the pouring and curing process.

[0035] The outside corner section 22 and outside corner clip 24 are depicted at the corner of the concrete wall 20. These components are designed to secure the plastic extrusion strip at the corners, ensuring that the strip conforms to the shape of the wall and provides a seamless fit. This design enhances the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the insulation system.

[0036] Overall, FIGS. 1-9 demonstrate how the plastic extrusion strip and associated components work together to anchor the rigid insulation board within the concrete structure, streamlining the installation process and improving the durability and performance of the insulation system.

[0037] FIGS. 5-9 show detailed views of a plastic extrusion strip 10 embedded within a concrete wall 20, illustrating the interaction of various components that secure the rigid insulation 18. The figure includes extrusion strip 10, a front retainer 12A, a rear retainer 12B, a spline 14, and a concrete form 20A. These components work together to ensure the stability and alignment of the rigid insulation 18 during the concrete pouring process.

[0038] The extrusion strip 10 is positioned to hold the rigid insulation 18 securely against the concrete wall 20. This component plays an important role in maintaining the insulation's position and preventing any movement during the pouring and curing of the concrete. The extrusion strip 10 works in conjunction with the front retainer 12A and rear retainer 12B to provide comprehensive support to the insulation system.

[0039] The front retainer 12A is located on one side of the spline 14, providing additional support to the insulation clip 10. The front retainer 12A ensures that the rigid insulation 18 remains securely in place, preventing any lateral movement during the concrete pouring process. The front retainer 12A works in tandem with the rear retainer 12B to maintain the alignment and stability of the insulation board.

[0040] The rear retainer 12B is positioned on the opposite side of the spline 14, complementing the function of the front retainer 12A. The rear retainer 12B provides additional support to the extrusion strip 10, ensuring that the rigid insulation 18 remains securely anchored within the concrete form 20A. Together, the rear retainer 12B and the front retainer 12A help maintain the structural integrity of the insulation system during the concrete pouring process.

[0041] The spline 14 extends longitudinally and is equipped with strategically placed holes 16 that allow concrete to flow through, forming a mechanical bond with the concrete wall 20. This design optimizes the flow of concrete and enhances the bonding strength between the plastic extrusion strip and the concrete wall 20, ensuring that the rigid insulation 18 is firmly anchored within the concrete structure.

[0042] It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017]In the construction industry, the process of attaching insulation to concrete structures presents significant challenges. Traditional methods typically involve mechanically fastening insulation boards to cured concrete surfaces. This approach requires drilling into the concrete and using additional materials such as screws and mounting strips. Such methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly. Moreover, the mechanical fastening process can lead to potential issues such as material degradation over time, particularly with components that may rust or corrode. These drawbacks not only increase labor costs and time ...

Claims

1. A plastic extrusion embedment strip for anchoring rigid insulation board to a concrete foundation or wall, the plastic extrusion embedment strip comprising:a spine extending longitudinally, the spine having a plurality of apertures formed therein for allowing concrete to flow therethrough to form a mechanical bond; andfirst and second channels defined on opposite sides of the spine for receiving the rigid insulation board;wherein the plastic extrusion embedment strip is positioned in a concrete form adjacent to the rigid insulation board prior to the pouring of concrete, allowing the poured concrete to engage the plurality of apertures and permanently secure the rigid insulation board to the foundation or wall.

2. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 1, wherein the plastic is high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to enhance durability and weather resistance.

3. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 2, wherein the spine includes ribbing or a thicker central section to increase structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.

4. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 3, wherein the plurality of apertures are circular and have a diameter of 0.5 inches to optimize concrete flow and bonding strength.

5. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 4, wherein the first and second channels have a width of 2 inches and a depth of 1 inch to accommodate different thicknesses of rigid insulation board.

6. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 5, further comprising alignment guides or clips for precise positioning in the concrete form.

7. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 6, wherein the spine includes barbs or flanges to enhance the mechanical bond between the embedment strip and the concrete.

8. The plastic extrusion embedment strip of claim 7, further comprising expansion joints to account for thermal expansion and contraction.