Multiply-insulated assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insulator components do not provide sufficient insulation to protect sensitive components from environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
The design of multiply-insulated articles featuring containers with variable distance spacing and vents that guide gas molecules out of the insulating space, creating a deeper vacuum without the need for getter materials, combined with low-emissivity coatings and phase change materials for enhanced thermal protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing insulator components are used, then the structure is simple, but the insulation performance is insufficient to protect from extreme temperatures for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating system is divided into multiple independent vacuum spaces separated by container walls. Each vacuum space provides independent thermal insulation, and the segmentation allows each layer to contribute to overall insulation performance without requiring a single complex insulation structure
Solution Approach 2:
Containers are nested within each other with the first container disposed within the second container. This nested arrangement creates multiple insulating layers where each container wall and vacuum space contributes to thermal protection, achieving enhanced insulation through layered structure rather than a single thick insulation layer
2Productivity
If variable distance spacing is used to direct gas molecules toward the vent, then evacuation efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spacing between container walls is made variable in specific local regions rather than uniformly throughout. The distance between walls is adjusted in portions adjacent to the vent to create gas molecule directionality, while other regions may maintain different spacing. This localized variation achieves evacuation enhancement without requiring precision control over the entire structure
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameter of wall spacing is changed from constant to variable in specific regions. By modifying the distance parameter between container walls in portions adjacent to the vent, the system creates regions that naturally direct gas molecule flow toward the vent opening, improving evacuation without complex active control mechanisms
3Reliability
If multiple containers are nested to provide multiply-insulated protection, then thermal protection is enhanced, but the device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first container is disposed within the second container, creating a nested configuration where each container serves as both a protective shell and a structural element for the next insulation layer. This nesting provides multiply-insulated protection with shared walls and integrated structure rather than separate independent insulation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The container walls serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, define vacuum spaces, act as thermal barriers, and maintain spacing between insulation layers. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, offsetting the complexity increase from nested structure with functional integration
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 solution achieves effective thermal insulation by maintaining a deep vacuum and reducing heat transfer, protecting sensitive components from environmental stresses while minimizing material usage and costs.
Implementation Method 1
the distance between the first and second walls being variable in a portion of the insulating space adjacent the vent such that gas molecules within the insulating space are directed towards the vent by the variable-distance portion of the first and second walls during the evacuation of the insulating space
Implementation Method 2
a vent communicating with the insulating space to provide an exit pathway for gas molecules from the space
Implementation Method 3
the vent being sealable for maintaining a vacuum within the insulating space following evacuation of gas molecules through the vent
Implementation Method 4
a second wall enclosing the first wall and the second wall being spaced at a distance from the first wall to define an insulating space therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are multiply-insulated articles, comprising at least first and second containers disposed together such that the interior volume of the first container is sealed against the environment exterior to the article.