Linoleum Tile Structure With Cork Layer for Acoustic Flooring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linoleum surface coverings have poor acoustic properties, and existing solutions, such as underlayment, are often cumbersome and not easily installable as tiles.
Innovation Solution
A linoleum-based surface covering element in the form of a tile comprising a cork-based support layer, a linoleum-based wear layer, and an adhesive layer, with specific compositions and production methods that allow for easy installation and improved acoustic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional linoleum surface coverings are used, then the installation process is simple, but the acoustic properties are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the linoleum wear layer and the acoustic support layer into a single integrated tile structure. The support layer containing ground cork particles is embedded within the tile itself, merging the functions of flooring and acoustic insulation into one component, thereby improving acoustic properties without requiring separate underlayment installation
Solution Approach 2:
The tile employs composite materials by incorporating ground cork particles into the support layer of the linoleum tile. This composite structure combines the durability and aesthetic qualities of linoleum with the acoustic insulation properties of cork, achieving both functional requirements in a single material system
2Reliability
If separate underlayment is installed to improve acoustic properties, then the acoustic performance improves, but the installation process becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the underlayment function directly into the tile structure by creating an integrated support layer with acoustic properties. This eliminates the need for separate underlayment installation steps, making the installation process as simple as laying traditional linoleum tiles while maintaining improved acoustic performance
Solution Approach 2:
The tile is segmented into functional layers (wear layer and support layer) during manufacturing, with the acoustic support layer already positioned and integrated. This pre-segmentation allows for easy installation as complete units without requiring on-site assembly of multiple components
3Productivity
If wide rolls are used for linoleum installation, then coverage area is efficient, but handling and installation become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flooring system into individual tile units rather than using wide rolls. This segmentation makes each unit lighter and easier to handle, transport, and install, while still achieving efficient coverage through systematic tile placement patterns
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a linoleum-based surface covering element (1) in the form of a tile comprising a support layer (2) comprising a cork-based layer (4) and a fabric layer (5), a wear layer (3) comprising a linoleum-based layer (7) and a fabric layer (6), and an adhesive layer (8) joining the fabric layer (5) of the support layer (2) and the fabric layer (6) of the wear layer (7).