Trapezoidal Insulation Modules for Cantilevered System Floor Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for post-insulating cantilevered system floors, such as ribbed or PS insulation floors, with thermal insulation material in the form of isosceles trapezoidal spaces are inefficient, as insulating foils can tear, leak, and are difficult to apply reliably, especially in limited spaces like crawl spaces, failing to achieve desired insulation results and meet stringent energy-saving requirements.
Innovation Solution
The method involves attaching form-retaining insulating insert modules with a trapezoidal contour to the underside of the system floor, which are designed to fill or partially fill the trapezoidal free spaces, creating closed air-filled chambers with high insulation values, using materials like cured plastic foam with low thermal conductivity, and can be easily cut and fitted to match the floor's dimensions for effective insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insulating foil is applied between the legs of the trapezoidal space, then insulation is provided, but the foil can tear, leak, and is difficult to apply reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the flexible insulating foil with rigid or semi-rigid insulating insert modules that have a trapezoidal cross-section matching the trapezoidal free space. These modules are inserted between the legs of the trapezoidal space and retained by the geometry of the space, eliminating the need for adhesive or sealing operations while providing reliable, leak-proof insulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the insulation material from flexible foil to rigid/semi-rigid modules with specific geometric parameters (trapezoidal cross-section). This parameter change allows the insulation to maintain its shape and sealing function without requiring additional fastening or sealing operations.
2Reliability
If insulating foil is hung tightly on the existing system floor, then insulation is provided, but the working space is limited and application is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the flexible insulating foil that requires tight hanging and sealing operations with rigid/semi-rigid insulating insert modules. These modules are simply inserted into the trapezoidal free space and retained by the geometry of the space, eliminating the need for adhesive or sealing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating insert modules are self-retaining through the geometric fit with the trapezoidal free space. The modules automatically stay in place without requiring external fastening, sealing, or adhesive operations, making the insulation application self-service and significantly simpler.
3Reliability
If insulating foil is used to create a closed air-filled chamber, then insulation is provided, but the chamber can leak and lose insulating capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the flexible insulating foil that forms the chamber walls with rigid/semi-rigid insulating insert modules. These modules maintain their shape and sealing function inherently, eliminating the risk of tearing, leaking, or losing insulating capacity that plagues foil-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating insert modules are designed with a trapezoidal cross-section that anticipates and prevents potential leakage issues. The geometric fit between the modules and the trapezoidal free space provides built-in sealing and structural support, cushioning against future degradation or failure.
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
This approach provides a simple and reliable method for enhancing insulation, reducing the risk of leakage, and achieving higher insulation values, even in constrained spaces, thereby improving energy efficiency and meeting current insulation standards.
Implementation Method 1
providing plate-shaped insert modules made of insulating material with an insulation value of less than 1.0 W/mK, preferably less than 0.5 or less than 0.1 W/mK, and even more preferably less than 0.07 or 0.05 W/mK
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2~4
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for post-insulating a cantilevered, already insulated system floor with pre-formed insulation elements on the underside with a trapezoidal free space formed by a top side as a small base, two legs extending from the top side, each with the small base subtending an angle greater than or equal to 90 degrees, each leg terminating in a free end, and an imaginary underside as the large base, the method comprising the step of attaching a multiple insert modules in and/or under the free space, wherein the free space is completely closed off by the insert modules of insulation modules and/or is partially or at least substantially completely filled. The invention further relates to such an insert module and a system floor post-insulated according to the method.