Acoustic Decorative Element With Stiffened Impact Sound Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decorative elements and hard surface flooring systems fail to effectively minimize sound transmission between adjacent rooms or stories in buildings, particularly when subjected to impact, and do not meet high-frequency acoustical performance standards like HIIC 63 without additional structural support.
Innovation Solution
A decorative element with an acoustic article on its second side, comprising a resiliently compressible material with a thickness of at least 0.4 mm and compressibility of less than 25% under 2 lbf/in², and a stiffening structure positioned between the decorative element and the acoustic article, enhancing the system with a stiffening structure to enhance acoustic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a resiliently compressible acoustic article is used under decorative elements, then acoustic performance (sound transmission reduction) is improved, but structural support and rigidity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two previously separate components - the resilient acoustic article and the rigid stiffening structure - into a single integrated assembly. The acoustic article is positioned between the decorative element and the stiffening structure, which is then attached to the substrate. This merging allows the system to simultaneously provide both acoustic insulation and structural support without requiring separate installation steps or additional adhesive layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite structure by layering materials with different properties: the resiliently compressible acoustic article (providing sound transmission reduction) is combined with the rigid stiffening structure (providing structural support). This composite assembly integrates the beneficial properties of both material types, allowing the thinner acoustic article to achieve effective sound isolation while the stiffening structure compensates for any loss of structural rigidity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the acoustic article thickness is increased to improve acoustic performance, then sound transmission reduction is improved, but the overall system thickness and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise parameter ranges for the acoustic article, including thickness of at least 0.4 mm and compressibility of less than 25% under 2 lbf/in² pressure. By controlling these parameters, the invention achieves effective acoustic performance with a relatively thin article, avoiding the need for thick materials that would increase overall system complexity and thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffening structure serves as an intermediary element that enhances the acoustic performance of the thinner acoustic article. By providing a rigid backing, the stiffening structure improves the acoustic isolation effectiveness, allowing the use of a thinner acoustic article than would otherwise be required to achieve the same sound transmission reduction.
3Strength
If a stiffening structure is added to improve structural support, then structural integrity is improved, but acoustic performance may deteriorate due to additional rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the functional requirements into distinct components: the acoustic article handles sound transmission reduction, while the stiffening structure handles structural support. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other, as the acoustic article remains resilient and compressible while the stiffening structure provides the necessary rigidity.
4Strength
If traditional adhesive layers are used between decorative elements and acoustic articles, then bonding is achieved, but acoustic performance deteriorates due to rigid connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for traditional rigid adhesive layers by using a resilient adhesive layer that provides sufficient bonding strength while maintaining acoustic isolation. The resilient adhesive acts as a compliant connector that allows the acoustic article to maintain its sound transmission reduction properties while still achieving adequate bonding between components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves improved acoustic performance, achieving a High-frequency Impact Insulation Class (HIIC) rating of at least 63 and Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating of at least 56 on a 6″ concrete floor without a drop ceiling, while maintaining structural integrity and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The acoustic article comprises a resiliently compressible material; has a thickness of at least 0.4 mm; and is compressible by less than 25% of the thickness when subjected to a pressure of 2 lbf/in2
Implementation Method 2
An acoustic article is disposed on the opposing second side of the decorative element. The acoustic article comprises a resiliently compressible material
Implementation Method 3
A stiffening structure is positioned between the decorative element and the acoustic article
Data Source
AI summary
Acoustic articles, decorative elements, and system containing the same can include a decorative element having a first side and an opposing second side, and an acoustic article coupled to the opposing second side of the decorative element. The acoustic article can include an entangled fiber structure. The acoustic article can have a thickness of at least 0.4 mm, and can compress less than 25% of the thickness thereof when subjected to a pressure of 2 lbf/in2.