Universal membrane configured to be divided to form a base membrane and a cover membrane that is couplable to the base membrane to form an uncoupling membrane for installation between a subfloor and floor tiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor heating systems and underlayment installations require multiple layers of thinset and significant time and effort for installation and maintenance, including curing processes, which are costly and labor-intensive, and do not efficiently allow for the movement of floor tiles relative to the subfloor.
Innovation Solution
A universal membrane system comprising a base membrane and a cover membrane, made of flexible materials like rubber, that uncouples the subfloor and floor tiles, allowing horizontal movement and eliminating the need for a second layer of thinset by encapsulating heating cables and forming a flat surface for tile installation, with studs and pockets for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple layers of thinset are used to install floor tiles over heating cables, then the floor tiles can be securely attached, but the installation time and labor costs increase significantly due to curing processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the curing step from the installation process by replacing traditional thinset mortar with a mechanical fastening system using clips and adhesive dots that provide immediate bond strength without requiring curing time. The heating cables are secured directly to the underlayment using these mechanical elements, eliminating the time-consuming curing process while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of thinset mortar with a mechanical fastening system consisting of clips, adhesive dots, and interlocking features. This mechanical approach provides immediate bond strength without the delays associated with chemical curing, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining attachment strength.
2Strength
If traditional floor heating installation methods are used with multiple thinset layers, then adequate bonding is achieved, but the overall weight of the floor system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes excessive material layers from the floor system by replacing multiple thick thinset layers with a thin underlayment and minimal adhesive dots. This extraction of unnecessary material reduces the overall weight of the floor system while maintaining adequate bonding strength through the mechanical fastening system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a thin flexible underlayment film that provides the necessary bonding surface and structural support without the weight of multiple thick mortar layers. This thin film approach maintains bonding strength while significantly reducing the weight of the stationary floor system.
3Strength
If floor tiles are installed directly over heating cables with thinset, then the tiles are securely fixed, but tile replacement becomes difficult and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the floor system into distinct modular components: underlayment, heating cables, clips, adhesive dots, and floor tiles. This segmentation allows individual components to be easily removed and replaced without affecting the entire system. Tiles can be detached from adhesive dots and heating cables can be removed from clips independently, making tile replacement simple and labor-free.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic, reversible fastening system where clips can be opened and closed to release or secure heating cables, and adhesive dots allow for controlled detachment. This dynamic design enables easy tile removal and replacement without permanent bonding, significantly improving ease of repair compared to traditional fixed thinset installations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If uncoupling membranes are used to allow floor tile movement relative to subfloor, then movement is enabled, but the device complexity increases with additional layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single universal underlayment component that provides both structural support and uncoupling capabilities. The underlayment with its mechanical fastening system enables floor tile movement relative to the subfloor while simultaneously securing heating cables and providing a bonding surface, thereby reducing system complexity despite maintaining movement capability.
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 solution reduces installation and maintenance costs and time by eliminating the need for additional thinset layers, allows for easier tile replacement, and decreases the overall weight of the system by approximately 30% while providing effective uncoupling and insulation.
Implementation Method 1
The heating cable generates heat when electrical current is passed through the heating cable
Implementation Method 2
made of flexible materials like rubber, that uncouples the subfloor and floor tiles, allowing horizontal movement
Data Source
AI summary
A universal membrane is configured to be installed between a subfloor and floor tiles to allow movement of the floor tiles relative to the subfloor. The universal membrane includes a base layer, a plurality of studs projecting from the base layer, and a plurality of sidewalls projecting from the base layer and disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of studs. Each sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls forming a perimeter of a pocket. The base layer forms a bottom wall of the pocket.