Monolithic Sump Drain Ramp for Roof Leak Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional roofing drainage systems are prone to leaks due to differences in thermal expansion of components, leading to seal deterioration and water intrusion, and are costly and time-consuming to install, with a high risk of incorrect installation.
Innovation Solution
A sump drain apparatus with a single, continuous, monolithic component that includes a drain inlet, ramp, and attachment portion, featuring insulation beneath the ramp and a roof membrane coupled to the second land, which redirects drainage water effectively and minimizes leaks by moving the membrane away from areas likely to accumulate standing water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multi-component drainage systems are used, then drainage function is achieved, but thermal expansion differences cause seal deterioration and leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (drainage assembly, membrane assembly, insulation, attachment means) into a single monolithic formed assembly. This integration eliminates the mating interfaces between components that were prone to seal deterioration from thermal expansion, while maintaining all necessary drainage functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic formed assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides drainage through the ramp and inlet conduit, thermal insulation through the integrated insulation layer, structural attachment to the roof deck via attachment means, and waterproofing through the integrated membrane. This multi-functionality in a single component reduces the number of separate elements needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional drainage systems with multiple components are used, then drainage is achieved, but installation is costly and time-consuming with high risk of incorrect installation
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is pre-formed as a complete, integrated unit with all components (drainage structure, insulation, membrane, attachment means) already positioned and connected correctly. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for complex on-site installation procedures, reducing both installation time and the risk of incorrect installation while maintaining full functionality.
3Reliability
If membrane is positioned near drainage components, then complete coverage is achieved, but standing water accumulates and increases leak risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a ramp with a specified slope that directs water flow toward the inlet conduit, creating a three-dimensional drainage surface rather than a flat membrane. This dimensional change ensures water does not pool on the membrane surface, reducing leak risk while maintaining complete coverage functionality.
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 solution reduces the likelihood of leaks, simplifies manufacturing and installation, and complies with construction codes by housing insulation directly underneath the ramp, providing a watertight seal and preventing structural failure from standing water.
Implementation Method 1
a ramp connected to the drain bowl comprising an incline plane configured to divert drainage water toward the drain bowl
Implementation Method 2
a ramp connected to the drain bowl comprising an incline plane configured to divert drainage water toward the drain bowl
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a sump drain apparatus comprising a drain inlet and a ramp coupled to the drain inlet comprising an incline plane configured to divert drainage water toward the drain bowl, wherein at least a portion of the ramp is configured to be positioned on top of a roof deck.