Multi-Nozzle Roof Adhesive Wand for Even, Low-Waste Application

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional adhesive distribution methods for roofing applications are inefficient, leading to excessive adhesive use and uneven application, requiring costly personal protective equipment and often resulting in undesirable finishes and issues like blistering due to incomplete solvent or water evaporation between non-breathable surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A distribution apparatus with a wand and extension that dispenses one-part or two-part reactive polyurethane adhesives through a static mixer, allowing for even and efficient application without atomization, eliminating the need for protective equipment and reducing adhesive waste by applying a thin, even coating.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional adhesive distribution methods (pouring and squeegeeing) are used, then adhesive can be applied to the substrate, but the distribution is uneven and excessive adhesive is used

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive distribution uniformityVSAvoidadhesive waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive distribution system is segmented into multiple dispensing nozzles arranged in a pattern across the applicator head. Each nozzle dispenses adhesive at a controlled rate, collectively providing uniform distribution across the entire substrate surface. This segmentation allows precise control over adhesive placement and eliminates the waste associated with manual pouring and squeegeeing methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If solvent or water based elastomer adhesives are applied between non-breathable surfaces, then adhesion is achieved, but blistering occurs due to incomplete evaporation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesion strengthVSAvoidblistering resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the fundamental parameter of adhesive chemistry from solvent or water-based elastomers to reactive adhesives (polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, or polysiocyanate). This chemical parameter change eliminates the evaporation requirement entirely, as these adhesives cure through chemical reaction rather than solvent evaporation. The result is reliable adhesion without blistering, even between non-breathable surfaces, while maintaining strong bond strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If spray application method is used, then more even coating is achieved, but personal protective equipment is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoating uniformityVSAvoidprotective equipment requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses a controlled dispensing system with multiple nozzles as an intermediary between the adhesive source and the substrate. This intermediary mechanism delivers adhesive in a controlled manner that achieves even coating without the hazards of spray application. The system eliminates the need for protective equipment by avoiding aerosol generation, while still providing uniform distribution through the multi-nozzle configuration and controlled dispensing rates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Strength

If contact adhesives requiring full coverage are used, then adhesion is achieved, but application time and adhesive consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesion strengthVSAvoidapplication efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The dispensing system applies adhesive with local quality by placing it only where needed on the substrate, rather than requiring full coverage. The multiple nozzles are positioned to target specific adhesive requirements across the surface, delivering precise amounts to specific locations. This localized application maintains strong adhesion while significantly reducing both application time and adhesive consumption compared to full-coverage contact adhesive methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9498792B2Roof adhesive distribution apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.11.22 ADCO PROD INC
  • US9498792B2 patent drawing
  • US9498792B2 patent drawing
  • US9498792B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A distribution apparatus for applying a one or two-part adhesive to a substrate includes a wand with a plurality of openings through which the adhesive is dispensed. An extension is connected in fluid communication to the wand. The extension directs a flow of adhesive to the wand.