Foldable Multi-Panel Insulation Assembly for Low-Slope Roofs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roofing systems face challenges in efficiently insulating low-slope roofs, particularly in managing the installation and configuration of insulation panels to optimize thermal performance and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
An insulation system comprising multiple interconnected insulation panels that can transition between a folded and unfolded configuration, utilizing materials like polyisocyanurate foam and glass fiber-reinforced cellulosic felt, connected by double-sided tape, and installed on various roof decks, including metal, concrete, or wood, with a membrane covering for enhanced insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If multiple insulation panels are used to insulate low-slope roofs, then thermal performance is improved, but installation complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple insulation panels into a single integrated assembly with interconnected panels that can be installed as one unit rather than separate pieces, reducing installation complexity while maintaining thermal performance
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation assembly is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing thermal insulation, acting as a structural element, and facilitating simplified installation through its integrated design, thereby reducing overall system complexity
2Loss of substance
If insulation panels are installed in folded configuration, then material usage is reduced, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation panels are designed with flexible connections that allow the assembly to transition dynamically between folded and unfolded configurations, maintaining structural integrity in both states while enabling compact storage when folded
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation assembly is divided into multiple connected panels that can be folded relative to each other, reducing material usage during storage and transport while maintaining full structural integrity when deployed in the unfolded configuration
3Temperature
If thicker insulation panels are used, then thermal efficiency is improved, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Thick insulation requirements are met by stacking multiple thinner panels within the integrated assembly rather than using a single thick panel, maintaining thermal efficiency while improving ease of installation through manageable panel sizes
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple insulation panels are combined into a single pre-assembled unit that provides the equivalent thermal performance of thick insulation but is easier to handle and install as an integrated system
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 provides flexible insulation solutions for low-slope roofs, improving thermal efficiency and structural stability while reducing material usage and installation complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the second layer comprises polyisocyanurate foam
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the first material or the second material comprises double-sided tape
Data Source
AI summary
An insulation system includes a first insulation panel having a thickness of 0.4 inches to 6 inches, a second insulation panel including a first side and an opposite second side, a third insulation panel, a first material contacting the first side of the second insulation panel, the first material connecting the first insulation panel to the second insulation panel, and a second material contacting the second side of the second insulation panel, the second material connecting the second insulation panel to the third insulation panel, the insulation system positionable between a folded configuration in which the first insulation panel, the second insulation panel, and the third insulation panel are stacked, and an unfolded configuration in which the first insulation panel, the second insulation panel, and the third insulation panel are unstacked.