Cross-Laminated Waterproof Membrane for Seamless Corner Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproof materials for building structures in high moisture environments, such as bathrooms and showers, are rigid and require seams, which are prone to water incursion and degradation, and lack flexibility and strength to cover corners and curved areas effectively.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof membrane composed of a polypropylene non-woven layer, a high-density polyethylene cross-laminated film, and a polyolefin tie layer, which is flexible and strong, allowing seamless application over irregular surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid waterproof materials are used, then waterproofing capability is improved, but flexibility and ability to cover irregular surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane construction consisting of a polyolefin tie layer laminated to a cross-laminated film layer, creating a flexible sheet that can conform to corners and curved surfaces without requiring rigid support structures or creating seams
2Strength
If rigid board materials are used, then structural strength is improved, but ease of installation and seam requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane provides sufficient strength through its cross-laminated film structure while maintaining flexibility for easy installation. The material can be applied continuously over irregular surfaces without requiring cuts or seams, significantly improving installation ease compared to rigid boards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure combining a polyolefin tie layer with a cross-laminated film layer, achieving both strength and flexibility in a single material that is easier to install than rigid alternatives
3Adaptability or versatility
If seams are used to cover extended surfaces, then adaptability to surface geometry is improved, but waterproofing reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane allows the entire surface to be covered by a single continuous piece that conforms to the substrate geometry, eliminating seams that would compromise waterproofing reliability
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 membrane provides a durable, flexible, and lightweight barrier against water and vapor, enhancing protection in high moisture areas without seams, with improved handling and adherence to surfaces, including corners and curves.
Implementation Method 1
a cross laminated film layer... provides a durable, flexible, and lightweight barrier against water and vapor
Implementation Method 2
a tie layer between the first non-woven first surface and the cross laminated film and the second non-woven first surface and the cross laminated film
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof extrusion laminated flexible membrane that may be seamlessly applied to an irregularity on a substrate supporting a finished surface for waterproofing that includes first and second polypropylene non-woven layers each having first and second surfaces, a water impermeable HDPE oriented cross laminated film layer, a first tie layer between the first non-woven first surface and the cross laminated film layer, and a second tie layer between the second non-woven first surface and the cross laminated film layer. Other membranes and methods are also disclosed.