Polymer Bracket Insulation System Thermal Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building insulation systems face challenges with thermal bridging due to metal-to-metal contact, which leads to reduced warranties and lifespan, and potential fire compromise of bracket members, compromising the cladding's position.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising polymer-based bracket members with insert rigidity members and a strap system that creates a thermal break and maintains cladding position through a network of straps and reinforcement channels, preventing metal-to-metal contact and enhancing fire resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal anchors and fasteners are used to secure cladding, then structural strength is improved, but thermal bridging increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces polymer-based bracket members as intermediary components between the cladding and building substrate. These polymer brackets act as thermal breaks that prevent direct metal-to-metal contact, thereby eliminating thermal bridging pathways while maintaining structural integrity. The polymer material serves as a mediator that connects structural elements without creating thermal conduction paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs composite construction by combining polymer bracket members with metal reinforcement channels and insert rigidity members. This composite approach allows the polymer to provide thermal insulation while the metal components provide structural strength, achieving both thermal break and structural integrity simultaneously without metal-to-metal contact.
2Loss of energy
If polymer-based bracket members are used to create thermal break, then thermal bridging is reduced, but fire resistance worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite bracket system where polymer material provides thermal insulation properties while metal reinforcement channels and insert rigidity members provide fire resistance. The metal components are strategically positioned within the polymer structure to maintain structural integrity during fire exposure while the polymer maintains thermal break functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The design nests metal reinforcement channels and insert rigidity members within the polymer bracket structure. This nested configuration allows the polymer to provide external thermal insulation while the embedded metal components provide internal structural support and fire resistance, creating a multi-functional integrated system.
3Strength
If metal skins are bonded together, then structural integrity is improved, but thermal bridging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The polymer bracket members serve as intermediary components between building substrates and cladding systems, preventing direct thermal conduction paths. By introducing this polymer mediator, the system achieves structural connection without metal-to-metal contact, thereby eliminating thermal bridging while maintaining structural integrity.
4Loss of energy
If additional sealing components are added, then thermal efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the bracket member itself. The polymer bracket provides structural support, thermal break, and integrated sealing through its design features such as reinforcement channels and insert rigidity members. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate caulk, tape, and wrap applications, reducing construction complexity while maintaining thermal efficiency.
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 effectively reduces thermal bridging, extends the lifespan of insulation systems, and maintains cladding position even in severe fire situations by eliminating metal-to-metal contact and using a thermally insulative polymer-based framework.
Implementation Method 1
a bracket system comprising at least one bracket member and a first insert rigidity member... a thermally insulative polymer-based framework... effectively eliminating or greatly reducing thermal bridging
Data Source
AI summary
A strap system comprising a plurality of straps. Each strap comprises a central body configured to extend within the first reinforcement channel, an outward jog at an upper end of the central body with an upper offset body extending therefrom, and a lower overlap portion extending from the central body opposite of the upper offset body. The lower overlap portion is positionable within the first reinforcement channel, while the upper offset body extending along the first end wall overlying the first reinforcement channel, whereupon positioning the first strap in operable position relative to the second strap directs the upper offset body into overlying position relative to the lower overlap portion of the second reinforcement channel, to, in turn, provide for the coupling therebetween by a fastener directed therethrough. A bracket member with a strap system, and a building system with a strap system are also disclosed.