Diecut Seal for Hole Closure in Metal and Plastic Parts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for closing holes in metal sheets or plastics parts, particularly in vehicle bodies, fail to provide airtight and watertight seals, leading to issues like corrosion, noise transmission, and logistical complexities due to the need for multiple plug sizes and materials that are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A diecut comprising a laminate of polymeric films with a heavy-duty lower film and a curable adhesive, applied over the hole to create a strong, puncture-resistant seal that withstands mechanical stress and enhances soundproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple plugs of different sizes and materials are used to close holes, then the sealing effectiveness for various hole sizes is improved, but the logistical complexity and production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single diecut structure that can close holes of various sizes (5-50 mm) without requiring different sized plugs. The diecut comprises a carrier with a closure element that can be adjusted or sized to match different hole dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized plug types while maintaining effective sealing across all hole sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the diecut dimensions and closure element properties to suit different hole sizes. Rather than changing the fundamental structure or material type for each hole size, the solution adjusts parameters such as diecut diameter, closure element size, and adhesive coverage to optimize sealing for various hole dimensions within the 5-50 mm range.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional plastics plugs are used to close holes, then the production process is simplified, but the sealing reliability and puncture resistance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining multiple functional layers within a single diecut structure. The composite comprises a carrier layer for structural support, a closure element for sealing, and adhesive material for bonding. This multi-layer composite approach achieves superior sealing reliability and puncture resistance compared to conventional single-material plugs, while still maintaining ease of manufacture through a unified application process.
3Ease of operation
If adhesive tapes are used to close holes, then the application process is simplified, but the airtight and watertight sealing is not always achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the sealing function in a specific closure element within the diecut structure. Rather than relying on the adhesive tape alone for sealing, the design incorporates a dedicated closure element (such as a foil or membrane layer) that provides the airtight and watertight barrier, while the adhesive carrier ensures proper positioning and bonding. This localized sealing approach achieves reliable sealing while maintaining simple application.
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 diecut solution achieves a reliable, airtight, and soundproof seal, reducing logistical complexities and costs by using a single solution for various hole sizes, with improved puncture resistance and moisture barrier properties.
Implementation Method 1
a diecut (1) comprising a carrier (2) composed of a laminate of at least two polymeric films... the lower film... bearing an applied adhesive, more particularly a self-adhesive or curable adhesive
Implementation Method 2
The lower film has a basis weight of at least 1.5 kg/m2 and is preferably a heavy-duty film such as a polyolefin film, more particularly a mineral-filled polyolefin film, or an elastomer-modified bitumen film
Implementation Method 3
achieves a reliable, airtight, and soundproof seal, reducing logistical complexities and costs by using a single solution for various hole sizes, with improved puncture resistance and moisture barrier properties
Data Source
AI summary
A blank and/or diecut permanently closes of holes in metal sheets and/or in plastic parts. The blank and/or diecut comprises at least one carrier having a laminate of at least two polymeric films, wherein the lower film has a basis weight of at least 1.5 kg/m2 and the side of the lower film opposite the upper film has an applied adhesive thereon.