Vacuum Insulated Panel Assembly With Slip Surface for Abrasion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum insulated panels used for temperature-sensitive goods transportation lack sufficient abrasion and impact resistance, leading to reduced thermal performance when the external barrier is breached.
Innovation Solution
The assembly of abutting vacuum insulated panels with a protective sleeve providing a slip surface with a low kinetic coefficient of friction at abutment areas to minimize abrasive wear and maintain the integrity of the vacuum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If vacuum insulated panels are used for temperature-sensitive goods transportation, then thermal insulation performance is improved, but abrasion and impact resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is segmented into multiple functional layers: an outer protective layer for abrasion/impact resistance, and an inner vacuum insulated panel for thermal insulation. This segmentation allows each layer to specialize in its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite material structure combining the vacuum insulated panel (with vacuum core and barrier layers) and the protective outer layer. This composite structure integrates the high thermal performance of VIP with the mechanical durability of the protective layer.
2Strength
If the external barrier of the panels is breached, then abrasion resistance is improved (through protective layer), but thermal performance deteriorates (vacuum integrity lost)
Solution Approach 1:
The protective outer layer serves as a cushioning barrier that absorbs abrasion and impact forces before they can reach the vacuum insulated panel. This prior protection prevents breaches that would otherwise compromise the vacuum and thermal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective outer layer acts as an intermediary between the external environment and the vacuum insulated panel. It mediates the interaction by absorbing mechanical stresses and preventing direct contact between abrasive forces and the vulnerable vacuum barrier.
3Area of stationary object
If panels are assembled in abutment areas, then insulation coverage is improved, but abrasive wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective outer layer is applied specifically to areas where abrasion occurs, particularly at abutment areas where panels meet. This local application of protection targets the specific zones of high wear without affecting the overall insulation structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective outer layer is designed as a sacrificial element that can wear away over time without compromising the expensive vacuum insulated panel. It serves as a disposable protective barrier that extends the life of the main insulation component.
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 configuration significantly increases the useful life of vacuum insulated panels by reducing abrasion and maintaining thermal performance, ensuring effective insulation for temperature-sensitive goods during transport.
Implementation Method 1
a slip surface with a low kinetic coefficient of friction is interposed between the panels within the abutment areas to decrease the abrasive wear on the panels
Implementation Method 2
Vacuum insulated panels are extremely effective insulators as long as the internal vacuum remains intact
Implementation Method 3
Vacuum insulated panels are extremely effective insulators as long as the internal vacuum remains intact
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is an assembly of abutting vacuum insulated panels configured and arranged to form a retention chamber with a slip surface providing a low kinetic coefficient of friction interposed between the panels within the abutment areas.