External Mobile Insulation Panels for Rigid Shelters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rigid wall structures used for shipping, living quarters, and housing electronic systems are often energy inefficient due to inadequate insulation, and internal insulation solutions occupy valuable space, limiting storage and living space.
Innovation Solution
A mobile insulating system comprising flexible insulating panels with zippers and hook-and-loop fasteners, insulating strips, and a weatherproof outer covering, which can be easily attached to the exterior of the structure using straps and magnets, allowing for customizable insulation without occupying internal space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If internal insulation is used to improve energy efficiency of rigid wall structures, then energy loss is reduced, but available internal space for storage and living is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by placing insulation on the exterior of the rigid wall structure rather than the interior. The insulating panels are attached to the outer surface, reversing the traditional location of insulation and thereby preserving internal space while achieving energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the insulation from the internal dimension to the external dimension of the wall structure. By attaching insulating panels to the exterior surface, the insulation function is relocated to a different spatial dimension, eliminating the trade-off between insulation and internal space.
2Loss of energy
If permanent insulation modifications are made to rigid wall structures, then energy efficiency is improved, but adaptability and ease of removal are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating panels are designed to be dynamically attachable and detachable rather than permanently fixed. Using magnetic attachments and fastening systems allows the insulation to be easily installed and removed, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation system is divided into separate, modular panels that can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows for flexible configuration and easy adaptation without permanent modifications to the underlying structure.
3Loss of energy
If custom insulation solutions are created for each structure, then energy efficiency is optimized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating panels are designed as universal, standardized components that can be applied to various rigid wall structures regardless of size or shape. The modular panels with standardized fastening systems provide a one-size-fits-all solution that simplifies manufacturing while maintaining energy efficiency through proper installation.
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 system effectively reduces energy loss by providing a customizable and space-efficient insulation solution that maintains energy efficiency without requiring permanent modifications to the rigid wall structure, while also offering protection against weather and electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
In certain embodiments, insulating panels that move with the structure, for example, doors, are attached via magnets where possible. In the case of a structure composed of magnetic material, magnets are imbedded into the insulating panels and once the insulating panels are ready for installation the insulating panels are set in place and the magnetic field holds the insulating panels in place.
Data Source
AI summary
Rigid wall shelters are used throughout the world for shipping, living quarters, and housing for electronic systems and are energy inefficient. While investigating energy-efficient technologies for rigid wall shelters the discovery was made to insulate the outside of the shelter rather than the inside. Space is often limited inside of the shelter. The invention of an external, re-deployable insulation system was developed. The present invention is an insulating system composed of three main components. The first component is multiple, purpose cut flexible envelopes filled with insulating materials (which creates a panel). The second component is multiple insulating strips that cover the joint between the panels. The final component is a weatherproof outer covering that protects the entire system from the elements.