Rotatable X-Shaped Tie System for Insulated Concrete Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction industry faces challenges in creating insulated concrete panels with varying insulation layer sizes, as existing metal ties are inefficient for thermal insulation and require multiple sizes, increasing complexity and reducing efficiency in building projects.
Innovation Solution
A wall tie system with a rotatable X-shaped configuration, comprising hubs and extension members, allows for expansion and contraction to fit various insulation layer sizes without deforming the insulation, providing enhanced thermal insulation and structural strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal ties are used to connect concrete layers, then structural strength is improved, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates due to high thermal conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to foam core material with low thermal conductivity. The foam core material maintains the structural strength function while dramatically reducing thermal conductivity, thus improving thermal insulation performance without sacrificing structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite structure where the tie comprises a foam core material surrounded by a metal shell or coating. The foam core provides thermal insulation while the metal shell provides structural strength, combining the benefits of both materials to resolve the contradiction between strength and thermal insulation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of ties are used to accommodate varying insulation layer sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and construction efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an expandable tie structure that can dynamically change its dimensions. The tie starts in a compressed state for insertion through the insulation layer, then expands to its full size to provide structural support. This dynamic capability allows a single tie design to adapt to various insulation layer thicknesses, eliminating the need for multiple tie sizes and simplifying construction processes
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable tie is designed to perform multiple functions with a single component. It can accommodate different insulation layer sizes, provide structural strength, and maintain thermal insulation across various applications. This universal design resolves the contradiction by allowing one tie type to replace multiple specialized tie sizes
3Ease of operation
If holes larger than ties are formed in insulation layers, then ease of insertion is improved, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable tie is inserted in a compressed state through a hole that is smaller than its expanded dimensions. After insertion, the tie expands to fill the hole completely, creating a tight fit that minimizes thermal bridging. This dynamic expansion process resolves the contradiction by allowing easy insertion through a small hole while maintaining thermal insulation performance through the expanded configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
A tie system for an insulated concrete panel. The tie system includes a first structural member formed with a first hub and a pair of first extension members coupled to the first hub. The first extension members extend outwardly from the first hub in generally opposite directions. The tie system further includes a second structural member formed with a second hub and a pair of second extension members coupled to the second hub. The second extension members extend outwardly from the second hub in generally opposite directions. As such, the first and second hubs may be rotatably coupled to one another in a manner that permits rotation of the hubs relative to one another. Thus, the tie system is shiftable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration by rotating the first and second structural members relative to one another.