Multi-layer Acoustical Plaster System for Sound Absorption

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for acoustical building materials that provide both improved sound absorbency and an aesthetically pleasing surface, as traditional sound-reducing materials often reflect sound and have unappealing aesthetics, while existing solutions require multiple steps and specialized supplies for installation.

Innovation Solution

A two-layer plaster system comprising a base layer mixture with porous, lightweight particles and a finish layer mixture, which can be applied directly to a substrate without the need for a fiberglass panel, reducing the number of supplies and installation steps, and providing a smooth, monolithic finish.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional acoustical panels with needle voids and pores are used, then sound absorption is improved, but aesthetics deteriorate due to visible holes and fissures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound reflectionVSAvoidsurface appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses porous plaster materials that allow sound waves to penetrate and be absorbed while maintaining a smooth, continuous surface appearance. The porosity is internal rather than surface-level, eliminating visible holes while preserving acoustic functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines acoustical plaster with decorative plaster in a multi-layer composite system. The base layer provides sound absorption properties while the finish layer provides aesthetic appearance, creating a material that simultaneously achieves both acoustic performance and visual appeal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Shape

If specialty fiberglass panels with adhesive and multiple plaster types are used, then both sound attenuation and aesthetic finish are achieved, but device complexity and installation steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface finishVSAvoidnumber of supplies and installation steps
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the functions of separate acoustical plaster and decorative plaster into a unified two-layer system that can be applied in sequence. This integration reduces the number of separate supplies needed and simplifies the installation process while maintaining both acoustic and aesthetic performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The acoustical plaster base layer serves multiple functions: it provides sound absorption, creates a suitable substrate for the finish layer, and eliminates the need for separate fiberglass panels and adhesives. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Shape

If conventional plaster with smooth monolithic appearance is used, then aesthetics are improved, but sound absorption deteriorates as sound is reflected and distorted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface appearanceVSAvoidsound reflection
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from surface-level porosity (which creates visible holes) to internal porosity within the plaster matrix. This dimensional shift allows the surface to remain smooth and continuous for aesthetic purposes while sound absorption occurs through internal pore structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 effectively absorbs sound with minimal reflection, requiring fewer supplies and steps for installation, and offers a visually appealing finish without the need for visible holes or fissures, enhancing both acoustics and aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

The base layer includes a system of interconnecting pores that extend throughout the thickness of the base layer. Sounds are partially absorbed by the base layer and partially reflected.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic absorption: Acoustic Absorption

Data Source

PatentUS9266778B2Multi-layer acoustical plaster system
Publication Date: 2016.02.23 USG INTERIORS INC
  • US9266778B2 patent drawing
  • US9266778B2 patent drawing
  • US9266778B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An acoustical plaster system features a base layer mixture and a finish layer mixture. The base layer mixture includes a first binder, a first thickener and a plurality of first particles, with the first particles being porous, lightweight, non-close packing particles having a first mean diameter. The finish layer mixture includes a powder latex binder, a second thickener and a plurality of second particles, with the second particles being porous, lightweight particles having a second diameter. The first mean diameter is larger than said second mean diameter.