Composite Drainboard for Blindside Foundation Waterproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In urban construction, limited access to building foundations near property lines complicates the installation of effective drainage and waterproofing systems, as existing methods require direct access and are not well-suited for blind-side applications.
Innovation Solution
A composite drainboard with a patterned substrate core and dual membranes, where a geotextile membrane covers the outward surface and a fiber membrane covers the inward surface to absorb liquid waterproofing, allowing for a smooth coating and efficient drainage, even in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional waterproofing methods are used, then waterproofing can be achieved, but direct access is required for installation which is not available in blind-side applications
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproofing membrane is pre-applied to the interior surface of the drainboard before the exterior waterproofing layer is installed. This preliminary action enables the waterproofing system to be assembled in a blind-side configuration where only the interior surface is accessible, eliminating the need for external access during installation while maintaining waterproofing effectiveness through the pre-prepared membrane layer.
2Manufacturing precision
If a smooth surface is provided for waterproofing application, then waterproofing quality is improved, but access to the surface is required which is not available in blind-side applications
Solution Approach 1:
The drainboard is pre-formed with a smooth interior surface and the waterproofing membrane is pre-applied to this surface during manufacturing or pre-installation. This preliminary preparation creates the smooth surface required for high-quality waterproofing application without requiring access to the exterior surface during final installation, enabling blind-side application while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Productivity
If drainage functionality is provided, then water management is improved, but access for installation is required which is not available in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage system is segmented into distinct functional layers: the drainboard with its drainage channels, the waterproofing membrane, and the exterior waterproofing layer. This segmentation allows each component to be installed independently from the interior side, with the drainage channels being formed within the drainboard structure itself, eliminating the need for external access during installation while maintaining drainage efficiency.
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
Enables reliable waterproofing and drainage in blind-side foundation applications, ensuring a sealed envelope around the foundation while allowing for efficient water drainage and preventing moisture buildup, thus protecting the building from hydrostatic pressure.
Implementation Method 1
A fiber membrane is attached to the substrate core and covering the inward surface to provide a substantially smooth coating to the inward surface, wherein the fiber membrane absorbs a liquid waterproofing
Implementation Method 2
The fiber membrane absorbs a liquid applied waterproofing
Data Source
AI summary
A composite drainboard includes a patterned substrate core having an inward surface, and opposed outward facing surface. The substrate core comprises a plurality of projections, forming concavities on the inward surface. A first geotextile membrane is attached to the substrate core and covers the outward facing surface. A second membrane is attached to the substrate core to cover the inward facing surface and the concavities to provide a substantially smooth coating to the inward surface. The second membrane at least partially absorbs a liquid applied waterproofing.