Resilient Seal for Façade Gaps and Expansion Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wet-seal systems for façade gaps and expansion joints are time-consuming, costly, aesthetically unsatisfactory, prone to bubbling and unevenness, and affected by temperature changes, with issues of wastage and poor performance in wide gaps.
Innovation Solution
A resilient seal comprising an elongate strip with a hollow second portion that deforms to fit gaps, featuring gripping means and extensions for secure engagement, made of silicone for easy installation and temperature stability, using a method involving alignment and force application with optional adhesive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If liquid sealants are used to seal façade gaps and expansion joints, then water penetration is prevented, but the sealing process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state of the sealing material from liquid (requiring curing time) to solid foam beads that expand in place, eliminating the time-consuming application and curing process while maintaining effective sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the manual liquid sealant application process with a mechanical foam bead insertion system, where pre-expanded foam beads are inserted into gaps and then expand to seal, significantly reducing labor time and cost
2Reliability
If liquid sealants are used to seal wide gaps, then sealing is achieved, but the application becomes cumbersome and ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The foam sealing material exhibits dynamic properties by being inserted in a compact form and then expanding in place within the gap, adapting to various gap widths including wide gaps that would be difficult to seal with liquid sealants
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing material is provided as discrete foam beads or segments that can be individually inserted into gaps, making the application process simpler and more effective for wide or irregular gaps compared to liquid sealants
3Reliability
If liquid sealants are used to seal gaps, then sealing is achieved, but bubbling and uneven surface occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses disposable foam beads that are inserted and expand to seal gaps, eliminating the need for manual smoothing and finishing operations required with liquid sealants, thus achieving uniform surfaces without bubbling
4Reliability
If liquid sealants are used in expansion joints, then sealing is provided, but the seal bulges due to thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses foam material with different physical parameters including higher elasticity and thermal stability that allow the seal to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the structure without bulging or deforming
5Reliability
If liquid sealants are used for sealing, then gaps are sealed, but material wastage occurs requiring disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The foam sealing material is pre-expanded to its final volume before insertion, allowing precise dosage control and eliminating excess material wastage that occurs with liquid sealant application where it is difficult to control the exact amount used
6Reliability
If liquid sealants are used in hot weather, then sealing is attempted, but the silicone boils causing aesthetic and performance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses foam material with higher thermal stability parameters that prevent boiling or degradation in hot weather conditions, eliminating the aesthetic and performance issues associated with liquid silicone sealants in high temperatures
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 provides a quick, cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and durable seal that maintains performance across varying temperatures and gap sizes, minimizing wastage and ensuring consistent appearance and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
the hollow is positioned, shaped and configured so as to facilitate elastic deformation of part or all of the second portion as it enters the or each gap or joint
Implementation Method 2
During installation, when subjected to external compressing or squeezing forces, the side walls are advantageously configured to collapse inwardly so as to facilitate placement of the elongate strip into the or each gap
Implementation Method 3
made of silicone for easy installation and temperature stability
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a resilient seal for sealing one or more gaps or joints. The seal includes an elongate strip having first and second portions. The first portion is configured in use to engage one or more internal surfaces defining the gaps or joints. The second portion is configured to substantially conform to the shape and configuration of the one or more gaps or joints so as to substantially fill the one or more gaps or joints when in use. The invention also relates to a method of sealing one or more gaps or joints using the resilient seal.