EMP Shield Conductive Sheets Offset Joints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current techniques for constructing EMP shields are inefficient and costly, failing to effectively protect critical infrastructure and electronics from electromagnetic pulses.

Innovation Solution

A method involving multiple layers of galvanized sheet metal conductive sheets secured to building surfaces with conductive tape and self-tapping screws, where joints between layers are offset to enhance electromagnetic pulse dissipation, and angled sheets are used at surface joints for additional protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional EMP shield construction techniques are used, then electromagnetic pulse protection is provided, but construction efficiency is low and cost is high

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMP protection effectivenessVSAvoidconstruction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The shield is divided into multiple layers of conductive sheets (first plurality and second plurality) with joints offset between layers. This segmentation allows for modular construction while maintaining continuous electromagnetic shielding, improving construction efficiency without compromising protection effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Conductive tape is used as an intermediary material to join the conductive sheets at their joints. This intermediary element ensures electrical continuity between sheets while allowing for efficient assembly, resolving the contradiction between reliable shielding and construction efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional EMP shield construction techniques are used, then electromagnetic pulse protection is provided, but construction cost is high

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMP protection effectivenessVSAvoidconstruction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the shield into multiple layers with offset joints, the design allows for standardized, repeatable construction patterns that reduce material waste and labor costs while maintaining effective electromagnetic shielding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The offset pattern of joints between layers changes the geometric parameters of the shield structure, creating a more efficient configuration that reduces material requirements and construction complexity while preserving shielding effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If conductive sheets are joined at aligned joints, then construction is simpler, but electromagnetic pulse dissipation is less effective

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstruction simplicityVSAvoidelectromagnetic pulse dissipation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The joints of the second plurality of conductive sheets are deliberately offset (asymmetrically positioned) relative to the joints of the first plurality. This asymmetry in joint placement creates a more effective electromagnetic pulse dissipation pattern while maintaining reasonable construction simplicity through a systematic offset pattern.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The offset joint configuration adds a dimensional variation to the joint placement pattern, transforming the shielding structure from a simple aligned grid to a staggered multi-layer configuration that enhances electromagnetic pulse dissipation effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 effectively dissipates up to 10 GHz of electromagnetic energy and handles 120 dB of noise, providing a cost-effective and efficient shield to prevent damage to electronics within secure structures.

Implementation Method 1

securing a first plurality of conductive sheets to a surface, applying a conductive tape to a first plurality of joints between conductive sheets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

Each of a second plurality of joints between conductive sheets of the second plurality of conductive sheets may be offset relative to the first plurality of joints

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 3

The solution effectively dissipates up to 10 GHz of electromagnetic energy and handles 120 dB of noise, providing a cost-effective and efficient shield

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFaraday cage effect: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS11197399B2Electromagnetic pulse shield
Publication Date: 2021.12.07 LIFELINE IP HLDG LLC
  • US11197399B2 patent drawing
  • US11197399B2 patent drawing
  • US11197399B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method according to one embodiment includes securing a first plurality of conductive sheets to a surface, applying a conductive tape to a first plurality of joints between conductive sheets of the first plurality of conductive sheets, and securing a second plurality of conductive sheets to the first plurality of conductive sheets without fully penetrating the first plurality of conductive sheets. In such an embodiment, each of a second plurality of joints between conductive sheets of the second plurality of conductive sheets is offset relative to the first plurality of joints.