Flat Roof Component with Integrated Moisture Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for installing flat roof components, such as gullies and skylights, often result in moisture leaks due to inadequate sealing, and existing leak detection methods are either ineffective or require additional openings in the roof.

Innovation Solution

Integrating a moisture detection device directly into the built-in roof components, particularly at the vapor barrier level, to quickly detect and indicate leaks, eliminating the need for separate detection devices and additional roof openings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate moisture detection devices are installed in the roof structure, then leak detection capability is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase due to requiring additional openings and separate installation steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleak detection capabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the moisture detection device with the built-in part (such as a gully) by integrating the detection device into the built-in part's structure. The detection device is arranged in the receiving space of the built-in part, merging two previously separate components (built-in part and detection device) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate installation of detection devices and reduces installation complexity while maintaining leak detection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The built-in part is designed to serve multiple functions: it performs its primary function (e.g., drainage for a gully) while simultaneously housing the moisture detection device. This multi-functionality allows the built-in part to act as both a structural/component element and a detection system platform, eliminating the need for separate detection devices and reducing overall system complexity

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

2Reliability

If additional openings are made in the roof for separate detection devices, then leak detection capability is improved, but roof integrity and moisture protection deteriorate due to additional penetration points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleak detection capabilityVSAvoidroof integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The detection device is integrated into the built-in part that is already installed in the roof, eliminating the need for separate openings. The detection device utilizes the existing opening and structure of the built-in part, so no additional penetrations are required. This maintains roof integrity while providing leak detection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The built-in part serves itself by incorporating the detection device within its own structure. The detection device is housed in the receiving space of the built-in part, allowing the built-in part to provide both its primary function and the detection function without requiring external additions or separate installation points

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If moisture detection device is placed in the roof structure, then leak detection capability is improved, but installation complexity increases due to integration with multiple roof layers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleak detection capabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The detection device is merged with the built-in part in such a way that they are installed together as a single unit. The detection device is arranged in the receiving space of the built-in part, allowing simultaneous installation of both components through a single opening. This eliminates the need to separately integrate the detection device with multiple roof layers, simplifying installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This approach ensures rapid and accurate leak detection, allowing for immediate repair measures without compromising the roof's integrity and simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for additional openings.

Implementation Method 1

The measuring device is suitable for detecting and evaluating changes in at least one physical parameter, such as electrical resistance, current, temperature, voltage and/or conductivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical resistance change due to moisture: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentEP3176341B1Flat roof installation part
Publication Date: 2018.11.28 FLEISCHMANN & PETSCHNIG DACHDECKUNGS
  • EP3176341B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3176341B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3176341B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a flat roof installation component that can be inserted into an opening (OE) of a flat roof, comprising the following features: 1.1 a first section (10) which, in an installation position of the installation component, forms an upper section of the installation component and can be connected to an outer seal (D1) of the flat roof, 1.2 a second section (12) which, in an installation position of the installation component, forms a lower section of the installation component and extends within the flat roof, 1.3 a middle section (10.M) extending between the first, upper section (10) and the second, lower section (12), characterized by 1.4 a moisture detection device (20) positioned on the installation component at the middle section (10.M) and/or at the lower section (12).