Gypsum Repair Plug With Recesses for Plasterboard Holes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for repairing plasterboards, such as using joint compound to fill holes, are tedious and require multiple layers that shrink upon drying, making the process time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A cylindrical repair plug with longitudinal or spiraling recesses made from gypsum plaster or similar materials, which can be twisted or screwed into place using a fluid to secure it, allowing for a single-layer application and easy insertion into holes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If joint compound is used to fill holes in plasterboards, then the holes can be sealed, but the process becomes tedious and time-consuming due to multiple layers being required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehole sealing effectivenessVSAvoidrepair time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The repair system is segmented into a separate plug component and a fastening joint compound. The plug provides the structural filling function while the joint compound provides only the fastening function, eliminating the need for multiple layers of compound and reducing repair time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug acts as an intermediary component between the hole and the joint compound. It provides a stable base that eliminates the need for bulk compound layers, allowing the joint compound to focus solely on fastening and finishing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple layers of joint compound are applied to fill holes, then adequate sealing is achieved, but the process requires repeated drying time between applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing qualityVSAvoiddrying time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The function of sealing is separated from the function of fastening. The plug provides immediate structural sealing without requiring drying time, while the joint compound applies only as a thin fastening layer that dries quickly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug is inserted into the hole before applying joint compound, providing immediate structural support and sealing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for multiple layers of compound and their associated drying times.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If a solid plug without recesses is used, then insertion is difficult and tight fit is hard to achieve, but adding recesses increases manufacturing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplug insertion easeVSAvoidplug structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The plug incorporates recesses that allow joint compound to penetrate and create a mechanical interlock. This simple geometric feature enables easy insertion and secure fastening without complex structures or additional components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

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

Enables quick and effective sealing of holes with a single layer of joint material, reducing the time and effort required for repairs while ensuring a snug fit and easy insertion, resulting in a nearly invisible finish after painting.

Implementation Method 1

This plug is fastened in the hole with the use of a fluid/liquid which is absorbed by the material of the plug, thus fastening it in the hole.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption: Absorption (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP1966451B8Plug for plasterboard repair
Publication Date: 2014.09.24 RK INNOVATIONS OY

AI summary

A repair plug (1) for sealing holes in plasterboards, said repair plug comprising gypsum plaster or the like material and having substantially a cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis extending between a front end (3) and a back end (4), and having a cylindrical side wall (2) and a substantially circular cross-section across the longitudinal axis, the plug further having recesses (5) on the side wall which recesses are either longitudinal or spiral around the cylindrical side walls.