Cellular Matrix with Radiant Barriers for Self-Inflating Insulation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Inflatable bodies with film-based cellular matrices face inefficiencies in thermal transfer resistance, particularly in convection and radiation modes, due to the lack of integrated thermal barriers in the axial direction, which compromises their thermal performance and self-inflation capabilities.

Innovation Solution

The integration of radiant and convection barriers within a cellular matrix, utilizing non-film sheet materials like non-woven or foam sheets, and thermally reflective films or coatings, along with alternative core orientations where the cellular axes are parallel to the envelope panels, to mitigate thermal transfer through convection and radiation modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If film-based cellular matrices are used as core configurations for inflatable bodies, then self-inflation capability is improved, but thermal transfer resistance deteriorates due to lack of radiant and convection barriers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveself-inflation capabilityVSAvoidthermal transfer resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines film-based cellular matrix structure with radiant barrier materials and convection barrier materials to create a composite core configuration. The film-based structure provides self-inflation capability while the integrated radiant and convection barriers provide thermal transfer resistance, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and energy loss prevention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The core configuration is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the film-based cellular structure provides self-inflation capability while the integrated radiant and convection barriers provide thermal insulation. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components and resolves the contradiction by making the single structure serve both purposes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Force

If cellular axes are oriented orthogonal to opposing panels for self-inflation, then restorative force is improved, but thermal transfer through convection and radiation worsens due to unimpeded fluid/gas conduit

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverestorative forceVSAvoidthermal transfer through convection and radiation

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different properties to different parts of the cell walls: the film-based structure provides restorative force for self-inflation, while integrated radiant barriers and convection barriers are placed within the cell walls to block thermal transfer. This local differentiation of properties allows the structure to simultaneously provide mechanical restorative force and thermal insulation, resolving the contradiction between force generation and energy loss prevention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This approach significantly enhances thermal performance by reducing heat transfer via convection and radiation, while maintaining or restoring self-inflation characteristics by selecting appropriate materials for cell walls that provide both thermal resistance and structural resilience.

Implementation Method 1

heat energy or thermal transfer takes place via three modes: conductive (direct transfer of molecular kinetics), convective (indirect transfer of molecular kinetics through a dynamic medium) and radiant (emission and absorption of electromagnetic radiation)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadiation: Thermal Radiation

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

The very presence of a thermally non-conductive cellular matrix functioning as a core of an inflatable body according to the invention disclosed in PCT/US03/39259 arrests any appreciable conductive modes of heat or thermal transfer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentEP2249684B1Cellular matrix with integrated radiant and/or convection barriers particularly for use with inflatabel bodies

Publication Date: 2013.11.06 CASCADE DESIGNS INC

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention is directed towards a cellular matrix having intgrated radiant and convection barriers, methods for making such matrices, articles of manufacture incorporating such matrices as a core thereof and methods for making such articles of manufacture.