Thermally-Insulating Composite Elevation Panel

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current building elevation technologies face challenges with the durability and complexity of thermal insulation methods, particularly with thin ceramic boards that are prone to deformation and detachment due to thermal expansion differences, and the need for a single-step solution that combines thermal insulation, structural support, and aesthetic appeal.

Innovation Solution

A thermally-insulating composite elevation panel integrating a ceramic board with a metal framework and a layer of polyurethane polystyrene foam (PSUR) composite, which is produced using a low-pressure pouring process, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that eliminates the need for separate insulation and structural components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If thin ceramic boards (2-3mm) are used for elevation, then weight and system complexity are reduced, but the boards become too fragile and susceptible to damage during mounting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight of elevation boardsVSAvoidstrength and durability of elevation boards
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a composite structure by integrating the thin ceramic board with a foam core material and a support grid framework. This composite construction provides the necessary strength and rigidity to thin ceramic boards (2-3mm) that would otherwise be too fragile for handling and mounting, while maintaining the weight advantages of thin materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Device complexity

If ceramic boards are bonded directly to thermally insulating material, then mounting is simplified, but thermal expansion differences cause deformation and detachment of the boards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomplexity of mounting systemVSAvoidadhesion and stability of ceramic boards
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a foam core material as an intermediary layer between the ceramic board and the support structure. This foam layer acts as a buffer that compensates for thermal expansion differences, preventing the deformation and detachment that would occur with direct bonding while still simplifying the mounting process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the bonding interface by using a foam material with specific adhesive properties and thermal characteristics. The foam's ability to change its mechanical properties (from rigid to flexible) in response to thermal conditions allows it to accommodate expansion differences while maintaining reliable adhesion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If separate mounting of insulation and elevation boards is performed, then each component can be optimized, but the process becomes multi-step and technologically complex requiring trained personnel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of insulation and elevation componentsVSAvoidspeed and simplicity of installation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the insulation layer and elevation board mounting into a single integrated panel structure. The foam core serves both as thermal insulation and as the bonding medium for attaching the ceramic board to the support grid, eliminating the need for separate insulation installation and elevation mounting steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The foam core material performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides thermal insulation, acts as an adhesive bonding layer, and serves as a cushioning element to accommodate thermal expansion. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and steps required in the construction process.

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

4Device complexity

If traditional adhesive bonding is used for elevation boards, then mounting is simplified, but adhesives have limited lifetime and high price

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of mounting methodVSAvoidlifetime of adhesive bonding
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional organic adhesives with a composite foam material that provides bonding functionality. The foam's cellular structure and chemical composition give it superior long-term durability and resistance to environmental degradation compared to conventional adhesives, while maintaining the simplicity of a bonding-based mounting system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 solution offers high thermal insulation, everlasting durability, reduced moisture absorption, and cost-effectiveness, allowing for the creation of energy-efficient, aesthetically appealing building elevations with reduced weight and simplified installation, suitable for high buildings and passive houses.

Implementation Method 1

A thermally-insulating composite elevation panel integrating a ceramic board with a metal framework and a layer of polyurethane polystyrene foam (PSUR) composite

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

which is produced using a low-pressure pouring process

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFoaming: Foam

Data Source

PatentEP3077603B1A thermally-insulating composite elevation panel, a method of its preparation and a use of the thermally-insulating composite elevation panel
Publication Date: 2020.02.05 EUTHERM
  • EP3077603B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3077603B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3077603B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a thermally-insulating composite elevation panel, characterised in that it comprises an elevation board (1) and a frame (3), preferably a metal one, which are permanently connected to each other through an insulating layer (2), the insulating layer being constituted by a plastic foam which, during its foaming process, permanently connects the elevation panel (1) with the frame (3). The invention relates also to a method for performing thereof and its use for simultaneous mounting of elevations and thermal insulation of buildings, especially high buildings.