Thermal Isolator with Protrusion Recess Coupling for Wall Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall systems face challenges in effectively isolating thermal energy transfer between conductive materials and the building interior, leading to inefficient temperature control and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A thermal isolator system is integrated into wall systems, comprising a thermal isolator with a solid portion and hollow voids, coupled with a sub-framing system and retainers, which separates and isolates sub-framing members from other components, using complementary protrusions and recesses for secure attachment, and is designed to be modular and adaptable for various construction needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional wall systems are used without thermal isolators, then the structure is simpler and easier to construct, but thermal energy transfer between conductive materials and the building interior is not effectively isolated
Solution Approach 1:
The wall system is divided into distinct functional layers including outer wall, thermal isolator, insulation, and inner wall components. The thermal isolator itself is segmented with hollow voids and solid portions to create thermal breaks, preventing continuous thermal pathways through the wall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal isolator serves as an intermediary component positioned between conductive materials (outer wall, sub-framing) and the building interior. This intermediate layer with its hollow void structure acts as a thermal barrier, interrupting heat flow without requiring complete redesign of the wall system.
2Reliability
If thermal isolators are integrated into wall systems, then temperature control is enhanced and energy efficiency improves, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal isolator incorporates flexible features including hollow voids that can accommodate dimensional variations, and coupling mechanisms with protrusions and recesses that allow for adjustable positioning. These dynamic characteristics enable the isolator to adapt to different installation conditions while maintaining thermal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal isolator design allows for parameter variations in the hollow void dimensions, solid portion thickness, and coupling recess positions to optimize installation for different wall configurations. These parameter adjustments maintain thermal reliability while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and site-specific requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components with coupling protrusions and recesses are used, then component reuse and adaptability improve, but the number of parts and assembly steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling protrusion and recess design creates universal interfaces that can accommodate various retainer types and positioning requirements. The same thermal isolator component can be adapted to different wall configurations and loading conditions through its standardized coupling mechanisms, reducing the need for multiple specialized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system employs nested structures where protrusions fit into recesses, creating integrated assemblies of multiple components. This nesting approach allows retainers, thermal isolators, and fasteners to be combined into unified assemblies that function as single units, effectively managing complexity through hierarchical organization.
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 thermal isolator system significantly reduces thermal energy transfer, enhancing temperature control within buildings, improving energy efficiency, and allowing for flexible installation and reuse of components.
Implementation Method 1
providing thermal insulation such that the effect of the exterior climate on the interior building temperature is lessened or minimized
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal isolator system may comprise a thermal isolator configured to be coupled to an inner wall of a wall system, and a first retainer comprising a first coupling protrusion having a first protrusion shape. The thermal isolator may comprise an isolator body spanning between an isolator outer surface and an isolator inner surface and between an isolator first side and an isolator second side, and a first coupling recess disposed through the isolator outer surface and into the isolator body. The first coupling recess may comprise a recess shape, and the first protrusion shape of the first coupling protrusion may be complementary to the recess shape of the first coupling recess. The first retainer may be configured to be coupled to the thermal isolator by the first coupling protrusion being disposed in the first coupling recess of the thermal isolator.