Radon Mitigation Apparatus with Rigid Ring Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mitigating radon vapor in building construction face challenges such as inadequate sealing due to rough footings, contamination, and difficulty in ensuring the integrity of plastic sheeting between the gas permeable layer and the concrete slab, as well as sealing around penetrations made of various materials.
Innovation Solution
A vapor mitigation apparatus featuring a vertical securing piece with a horizontal foot and a mechanical clip to ensure the plastic sheeting creates an airtight seal between the ground and the building, along with a rigid ring for sealing around penetrations, which can stretch to accommodate different materials and provide a secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plastic sheeting is placed between the gas permeable layer and the concrete slab to create an airtight seal, then radon vapor mitigation is improved, but it becomes difficult to determine if the sheeting remained in place after concrete pouring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a verification mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the plastic sheeting and the concrete slab. This mechanism allows workers to verify the sheeting's position and integrity after concrete pouring by providing a means to detect whether the sheeting remained in place or moved during the pouring process, thus resolving the detection difficulty while maintaining the airtight seal function
2Reliability
If sealing tape is used to secure the Radon gas membrane around penetrations, then sealing capability is improved, but the seal depends on the cleanliness of the penetrating object which is not guaranteed on construction sites
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-attaching a rigid ring with an undersized hole to the Radon gas membrane before installation. This pre-assembled configuration ensures that the membrane is already positioned and secured around the penetration point, eliminating the need for on-site tape application and avoiding dependence on surface cleanliness. The rigid ring structure provides a mechanical seal that is independent of the penetrating object's surface condition
3Reliability
If the Radon gas membrane is secured with sealant tape around penetrations, then sealing is achieved, but movement of the membrane or penetrating object during concrete pouring can compromise the seal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rigid ring structure with an undersized hole that creates a curved or circular configuration around the penetration. This geometric design provides structural stability and resistance to movement during concrete pouring. The rigid ring's shape allows it to maintain its position and the membrane's position around penetrations, preventing seal compromise while accommodating various penetration materials
Data Source
AI summary
A vapor mitigation apparatus and method for use with the construction of a building. The apparatus includes a vertical member configured to be affixed to a foundation wall proximate a footing that is supporting the foundation wall. The vertical member has a first end located proximate to a footing and a second end. A horizontal foot is located at the first end of the securing piece. The horizontal foot is configured to rest against the footing. The apparatus may include a mechanical clip located at the second end of the vertical member and is configured to secure a gas impermeable membrane. In the alternative, the vertical member and the gas impermeable membrane are of a unitary structure. The method includes securing the apparatus to the foundation wall, sealing the gas impermeable membrane to a membrane that is covering the footings or granular base of the building and then creating a concrete slab by pouring concrete over the footing and apparatus. The apparatus may also include a membrane material and a rigid ring located at the approximate center of the membrane material. An inner portion of the membrane material is located inside the perimeter of the ring. The rigid ring is configured to be located around one of the at least one penetration such that the inner portion of the membrane material is configured to stretch around the one penetration resulting in the sealing of the apparatus to the penetration.