Patent Application
20190085557
The present disclosure relates generally to a structural insulation system with a radiant barrier.
Wood and steel framing in buildings is mostly used in North America, Scandinavia, and Central Europe. Of interest ever since the energy crisis in the early 1970s in the United States is improvement in the thermal performance envelope (building envelope) afforded by such structural insulated framing systems. Building envelopes play an important role in the heat transfer between the exterior and the interior spaces of a building. From a thermal perspective, a well-performing building frame system is one that contributes to thermal comfort inside the building with minimum consumption of space conditioning energy. See Barrios et al., 2012, “Envelope wall/roof thermal performance parameters for non-air-conditioned buildings,” Energy and Buildings 50 pp. 120-127 and ASHRAE, Energy-efficient Design of Low-rise Residential Buildings (ASHRAE Standard 90.2-2004), American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., 1791 Tullie Circle NE, Atlanta, Ga. 30329, 2006, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Building envelope technologies have been evaluated in the United States using techniques such a hot-box testing as well as numerical thermal analysis. Technical information, field and lab test thermal performance data, and three-dimensional thermal analysis from such evaluation provides for an objective evaluation of the existing building envelope technologies. For instance, R-values or U-values provide a measure of thermal performance of building envelope components. For building frame systems, the part of the frame that is traditionally analyzed is the cavity of the frame that is uninterrupted by details such as wooden or steel structural elements, windows, or vents, which comprises about 50-80% of the total area of the opaque building frame. For instance, in wall systems that make use of studs, this would be the stud cavities between studs. The remaining 20-50% of the wall area (e.g., the windows, studs, vents, etc.) is typically not analyzed when rating conventional insulation. As a result, for most forms of insulation, traditionally estimated R-values for such insulation are 20-30% higher than the corresponding overall whole wall R-values that are achieved when such insulation is used.
In principle, thermal performance of building frame assemblies has been increased conventionally by application of thicker and wider insulation space in building frame cavities, such as wall cavities, installing insulating sheathing, improving thermal resistance of insulation materials, reducing or eliminating thermal bridging, and/or applying airtight construction. Combinations of these methods is normally applied in practice to reach a high R-value and sometimes to improve other building performance aspects such as durability, constructability, and costs. For instance, Kosny et al. calculated that for wood-framed houses, 25 mm of EPS foam sheathing gives an average 7.3% of saving in that part of the whole building energy consumption which is generated by building enclosure. See, Kosny 2014, “A review of high R-value wood framed and composite wood wall technologies using advanced insulation techniques,” Energy and Buildings 72, pp. 441-456, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
One conventional wall technology that has been employed in wood frame building construction is exterior insulation finish system (EIFS). EIFS utilizes rigid insulation sheathing and plaster finish on the exterior wall surface. As illustrated in
Further examples of conventional framing systems include double walls, Larsen truss walls, optimum or advanced framing walls, European walls, and walls with furring and composites. Such walls are framing systems are disclosed in Kosny 2014, “A review of high R-value wood framed and composite wood wall technologies using advanced insulation techniques,” Energy and Buildings 72, pp. 441-456, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Given ever rising energy costs, and the ever present need for affordable housing, improved framing systems that provide satisfactory R-values without compromising other performance aspects such as durability, constructability, and costs, and that are compliant with applicable building codes are needed in the art.
The present disclosure addresses the above-identified shortcomings.
In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a framing system abutting an interior space of a building. The framing system comprises an exterior siding having a first side and a second side. The first side of the exterior siding faces the interior space of the building and the second side of the exterior siding opposes the first side and thus faces away from the interior space of the building. The framing system further comprises a plurality of structural frame elements (e.g., joists, studs, rafters, etc.). Each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is arranged against the first side of the exterior siding. Each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval thereby creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities. Each respective structural frame element cavity comprises a polyurethane foam (e.g., two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam) overlaying a portion of the first side of the exterior siding bounded by the respective structural frame element cavity.
A radiant barrier having an emissivity of 0.50 or less is attached to the second side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements. The radiant barrier includes a plurality of indented portions. Each indented portion in the plurality of indented portions is indented (protrudes) into a corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the corresponding polyurethane foam and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
An interior siding (e.g., wall) covers the radiant barrier and is attached to the second side of each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements thereby creating a respective second sealed space, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, between the radiant barrier and the interior siding in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a framing system abutting an interior space of a building. The framing system comprises an exterior siding, a plurality of structural frame elements, a radiant barrier having an emissivity of 0.50 or less, and an interior siding.
The exterior siding has a first side facing the interior space and an opposing second side facing away from the interior space. The structural frame elements in the plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other, and each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The radiant barrier is attached to the first side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements, and the interior siding is attached to the second side of each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements.
The first side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements abuts the first side of the exterior siding with the radiant barrier in between. Each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval thereby creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The radiant barrier includes a plurality of indented portions, each indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the first side of the exterior siding and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
Each respective structural frame element cavity comprises a foam (e.g., a polyurethane foam) overlaying the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by the respective structural frame element cavity. A respective second sealed space, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, is formed between the foam and the interior siding in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
In still another aspect, the present disclosure provides a framing system abutting an interior space of a building. The framing system comprises an exterior siding, a first plurality of structural frame elements, a radiant barrier having an emissivity of 0.50 or less, a second plurality of structural frame elements, and an interior siding.
The exterior siding has a first side facing the interior space and an opposing second side facing away from the interior space. The structural frame elements in the first plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other, and each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side.
The radiant barrier is attached to the first side of each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements abuts the first side of the exterior siding with the radiant barrier in between. Each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements is spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval thereby creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities. The radiant barrier includes a plurality of indented portions, each indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the first side of the exterior siding and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
Each respective structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities comprises a foam overlaying the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by the respective structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The structural frame elements in the second plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other and are interspersed among and parallel to the first plurality of structural frame elements. Each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements is coupled with the foam in the corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The interior siding is attached to the second side of each structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements, thereby creating a respective second sealed space, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, between the foam and the interior siding and bounded by two adjacent structural frame elements in the second plurality of structural frame elements.
In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a framing system abutting an interior space of a building. The framing system comprises an exterior siding, a first plurality of structural frame elements, a radiant barrier having an emissivity of 0.50 or less, a second plurality of structural frame elements, and an interior siding.
The exterior siding has a first side facing the interior space and an opposing second side facing away from the interior space. The structural frame elements in the first plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other. Each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side abutting the first side of the exterior siding. Each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements is spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval thereby creating a first plurality of structural frame element cavities. Each respective structural frame element cavity in the first plurality of structural frame element cavities comprises a polyurethane foam overlaying a portion of the first side of the exterior siding bounded by the respective structural frame element cavity in the first plurality of structural frame element cavities.
Each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements is coupled with the foam in the corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities. The structural frame elements in the second plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other and are interspersed among and parallel to the first plurality of structural frame elements, thereby creating a second plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The radiant barrier is attached to the second side of each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements. The radiant barrier comprises a plurality of indented portions, each indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the corresponding foam and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The interior siding covers the radiant barrier and is attached to the second side of each structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements, thereby creating a respective second sealed space, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, between the radiant barrier and the interior siding in each structural frame element cavity in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities.
In some embodiments, the foam overlaying the portion of the first side of the exterior siding or overlaying the portion of the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by a structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities is medium-density two-part closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation having a thickness of at least 38 millimeters and a long term thermal resistance (LTTR) R-value between 6.9 and 7.0 per inch.
In some embodiments, the two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam overlaying the portion of the first side of the exterior siding or overlaying the portion of the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by a structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities is medium-density two-part closed-cell spray polyurethane foam insulation having a thickness of at least 45 millimeters and a long term thermal resistance (LTTR) R-value between 5.1 and 6.8 per inch.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding comprises one or more wood panels, the interior siding comprises one or more sheetrock panels, and each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements has two-inch by six-inch cross-section, is made of wood, and is at least a foot long. In some such embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a stud. In some such embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a joist.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding comprises one or more wood panels, the interior siding comprises one or more sheetrock panels, and each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements has two-inch by four-inch cross-section, is made of wood, and is at least a foot long. In some such embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a stud. In some such embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a joist.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier is stapled along a third side of a first structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements and a fourth side of a second structural frame element, the second structural frame element adjacent to the first structural frame element, in the plurality of structural frame elements, thereby forming a first indented portion, in the plurality of indented portions, between the first structural frame element and the second structural frame element. In some embodiments, the second sealed air space in the second plurality of sealed air spaces in the first indented portion has a width that is determined by an air spacing between the radiant barrier within the first indented portion and the interior siding. In some such embodiments, the air spacing is between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches.
In some embodiments a width of each respective first sealed air space between the corresponding polyurethane foam and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities is between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches, and a width of each respective second sealed air space in the second plurality of sealed air spaces between the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities and the interior siding is between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches.
In some embodiments, a first sealed air space in the first plurality of sealed air spaces at a first indented portion has a width that is determined by an air spacing between the radiant barrier within the first indented portion and the first side of the exterior siding. In some embodiments, the air spacing is between 0.25 inches and 1.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 1.75 inches, or between 0.75 inches and 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, a width of each respective first sealed air space in the first plurality of sealed air spaces between the radiant barrier and the first side of the exterior siding in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities is between 0.25 inches and 1.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 1.75 inches, or between 0.75 inches and 2.0 inches.
In some embodiments, a width of each respective second sealed air space in the second plurality of sealed air spaces between the foam in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities and the interior siding is between 1 inch and 3 inches, between 2 inches and 4 inches, or between 3 inches and 5 inches.
In some embodiments, the framing system has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces.
In some embodiments, the framing system has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces.
In some embodiments, the framing system has a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier comprises aluminum or copper.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier has an emissivity of less than 0.08 or less than 0.06.
In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam is two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam and a thickness of the two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam overlaying the portion of the first side of the exterior siding or overlaying the portion of the indented portion of the radiant barrier is at least 0.5 inches thick and provides an R-value of at least 5.
In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam is two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam and a thickness of the two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam overlaying the portion of the first side of the exterior siding or overlaying the portion of the indented portion of the radiant barrier is at least 0.8 inches thick and provides an R-value of at least 6.
In some embodiments, the interior siding comprises a sheet rock panel having a thickness of ½-inch (13 mm), ⅝-inch (16 mm), ¼-inch (6.4 mm), ⅜-inch (9.5 mm), ¾-inch (19.0 mm) or 1-inch (25.4 mm).
In some embodiments, the interior siding comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6.
In some embodiments, the interior siding comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding comprises wall wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces.
In some embodiments, the interior siding comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding comprises wall wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces.
In some embodiments, the first side of the exterior siding is at least 100 square feet.
In some embodiments, the interior siding is a wall or a ceiling.
The accompanying drawings constitute a part of this specification and illustrate an embodiment of the invention and together with the specification, explain the invention.
Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.
The present disclosure addresses the above-identified shortcomings. Referring to
Referring to
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises plywood sheathing, oriented strand board (OSB), or wood-based panel. In some embodiments, the exterior siding comprises “Nail Base.”
In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 includes V-groove, channel groove, or deep groove surface treatment.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises plywood that is manufactured under the Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-09 for structural plywood. In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises plywood or OSB that is manufactured under the provisions of APA PRP-108, Performance Standards and Qualifications Policy for Structural-Use Panels, or under the Voluntary Product Standard PS 2-10, Performance Standard for Wood-Based Structural-Use Panels.
In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 comprises a wood structural panel having a thickness of 15/32 of an inch. In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 comprises 15/32 inch structural 1 plywood having at least 4 plies and 3 layers. In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 comprises plywood having at least 4 plies and 3 layers. In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 comprises plywood having 5 plies and 5 layers. In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 is Douglas Fir-Larch wood, Hem Fir wood, or Redwood open grain. In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 has a shear of between 270 and 680 lbs./ft., or between 270 and 440 lbs./ft. In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises oriented strand board.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 is rated for exterior siding. In some such embodiments, the exterior siding has a performance rating of 11/32, ⅜, 7/16, 15/32, ½, 19/32, or ⅝. As used herein the term “performance rating” is a panel designation related to the panel thickness range that is linked to the nominal panel thickness designations used in the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC).
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 is rated for wall sheathing. In some such embodiments, the exterior siding has a performance rating of ⅜, 7/16, or 15/32.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 has a bond rating of Exposure 1. In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 has a bond rating of Exterior. Bond classification relates to moisture resistance of the glue bond, and thus to the structural integrity of the panel. Exterior siding 102 has bonds capable of withstanding repeated wetting and redrying or long-term exposure to weather or other conditions of similar severity, provided they are properly finished and maintained.
In some embodiments exterior insulation is overlaid on the second side 102B of the exterior siding. In some embodiments the exterior insulation comprises building paper or other form of weather-resistant barrier. In some embodiments the exterior insulation comprises building paper or other form of weather-resistant barrier overlaid with siding panels. In some such embodiments, these siding panels have a maximum width of twelve inches. In some embodiments the exterior insulation comprises building paper or other form of weather-resistant barrier, overlaid with an air space followed by brick veneer masonry.
In some embodiments, the second side 102B of the exterior siding 102 is at least 50 square feet, at least 100 square feet, at least 200 square feet or at least 300 square feet. In some embodiments the framing system 100 has overall dimensions of at least two feet by two feet, at least four feet by four feet, at least six feet by six feet, or at least seven feet by seven feet.
In some embodiments, the exterior 102 siding comprises plywood sheathing. In some such embodiments, a trowel applied adhesive layer and liquid applied air/water resistive barrier are overlaid on the first side of the exterior siding, an exterior insulation is overlaid on the trowel applied adhesive layer, a base coat stucco with reinforcing wire mesh is overlaid the exterior insulation, and an acrylic-based finish coat is overlaid on the base coat stucco.
The framing system further comprises a plurality of structural frame elements. In some embodiments each structural frame element is made of wood. In some embodiments each structural frame element has a two-inch by four-inch cross-section and is made of a wood beam. In some embodiments each structural frame element has a two-inch by six-inch cross-section and is made of wood. In some embodiments, each structural frame element is a beam, joist, rafter, or component of a truss.
Each respective structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is arranged against (abuts) the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102 as illustrated in
Each respective structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements is spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval thereby creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities. In some embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is arranged along the exterior siding at an interval of sixteen inches from the center of one structural frame element to the center of the next structural frame element. In some embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is arranged along the exterior siding at an interval of 24 inches from the center of one structural frame element to the center of the next structural frame element.
Each respective structural frame element cavity 106 comprises a polyurethane foam 108 overlaying a portion of the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102 bounded by the respective structural frame element cavity 106.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises “Nail Base.” Nail Base is a bonded combination of plywood and foam panel that can be used as a continuous insulating “CI” exterior. In some such embodiments, the polyurethane foam 108 is overlaid against the interior foam portion of the nail base for this assembly. In some embodiments, the Nail Base is closed-cell polyisocyanurate (polyiso) insulation board bonded to a minimum 7/16″ APA/TECO rated OSB or minimum 19/32″ CDX plywood on the top face. In some embodiments the exterior siding 102 is Nail Base has a long-term thermal resistance (LTTR) value between 6.3 and 24.2. In some embodiments, exterior siding is Nail Base with a nominal thickness of 1.5″ to 4.5.″ In some embodiments, exterior siding is Nail Base manufactured in accordance with ASTM C1289, Type V. One source of Nail Base is Atlas Roofing Corporation. See the Internet at roof.atlasrwi.com/products/acfoam-nailable-polyiso-roof-insulation/acfoam-nail-base/, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
In some embodiments polyurethane film is a rigid polyurethane film. A comprehensive overview of the production of rigid polyurethane foams and their use as outer or core layer in composite elements and also their application as insulating layer in cooling or heating technology is provided in “Polyurethane,” Kunststoff-Handbuch, volume 7, 3rd edition, 1993, edited by Dr. Gunter Oertel, Carl-Hanser-Verlag, MunichNienna, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam 108 is obtained by reacting organic polyisocyanates with one or more compounds having two or more reactive hydrogen atoms in the presence of blowing agents, catalysts and optionally auxiliaries and/or additives. For instance, in some embodiments the polyurethane foam 108 is a rigid polyrurethane foam obtainable by reaction of A) organic or modified organic polyisocyanates or mixtures thereof, B) compounds having two or more isocyanate-reactive hydrogen atoms in the presence of C) optionally further polyester polyols, D) optionally polyetherol polyols, E) optionally flame retardants, F) one or more blowing agents, G) catalysts, and H) optionally further auxiliaries and/or additives, where component B) comprises the reaction product of a1) 15 to 40 wt % of one or more polyols or polyamines having an average functionality of 2.5 to 8, a2) 2 to 30 wt % of one or more fatty acids and/or fatty acid monoesters, a3) 35 to 70 wt % of one or more alkylene oxides of 2 to 4 carbon atoms as disclosed in United States Patent Publication No. 2013/0231410, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam is a rigid polyurethane foam comprising the reaction product of: (A) an isocyanate reactive component comprising; (i) an aromatic polyester polyol; (ii) a rigid polyol; and (iii) an aliphatic polyester polyol, where the aliphatic polyester polyol is present in the isocyanate reactive component in an amount of from 2 to 10 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the total weight of the polyols present in the isocyanate reactive component, and (B) an isocyanate; in the presence of (C) a blowing agent. In some such embodiments, the rigid polyurethane foam has a tensile adhesion of greater than 35 kPa (5 psi) when disposed on a metal substrate, a polyester coated metal substrate, a polyurethane coated metal substrate, or an epoxy coated metal substrate, each having a substrate temperature of greater than 41° C. and tested in accordance with ASTM D1623-09 as disclosed in United States Patent Publication No. 2014/0179812, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
In some embodiments, rather than using a polyurethane foam, a foam made of polystyrene, styrene based-copolymers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyesters, polyvinylchloride, cellulose acetate, glass beads, fumed silica, graphite, or combinations thereof is used. In some embodiments, rather than using a polyurethane foam, a foam made of polyurethane with some combination of polystyrene, styrene based-copolymers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyesters, polyvinylchloride, cellulose acetate, glass beads, fumed silica, or graphite is used.
In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam 108 is a foam disclosed in United States Patent Publication Nos. 2017/0044301, 2017/0037637, 2017/0037615/ 2016/0362519, 2016/0355658, 2015/0322196, 2015/0299374, 2015/0299373, 2015/0218303, 2015/0210035; 2015/0141543; 2015/0141542; 2015/0076400; 2015/0051301; 2014/0370267; 2015/0290834; 2014/0288204, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam 108 is a polyurethane foam manufactured and offered for sale by BASF, BAYER, DOW CHEMICAL, CERTAINTEED (See, the Internet, at certainteed.com/insulation/benefits-spray-polyurethane-foam-commercial-applications/), JOHNS MANVILLE (See, the Internet at jm.com/en/manufacturers-solutions/fibers/assembled-roving/polyurethane/, DEMILEC (See, the Internet at demilec.com/), or SWD (See, the Internet at swdurethane.com/company/).
In some embodiments, the polyurethane foam 108 is two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam. In some embodiments, the foam 108 is created and applied on-site into the structural frame element cavities to form the foam 108 illustrated in
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell (about 2 pounds per cubic foot density or more) spray polyurethane foam applied in thicknesses of over two inches (50 millimeters).
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell spray polyurethane foam that has a thermal conductivity of 0.030 W/m K or less once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell polyurethane spray foam that has a thermal conductivity of about 0.24 W/m K or less once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell polyurethane spray foam that has an insulating value (long term design value) of at least 0.9 per 25.4 mm R 6.0 per inch once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102. In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell polyurethane spray foam that has an insulating value (long term design value) of at least 1.0 per 25.4 mm R 6.0 per inch once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell polyurethane spray foam that has a vapor permeability of less than 5 ng/Pa·s·m, less than 4 ng/Pa·s·m, less than 3 ng/Pa·s·m, less than 2 ng/Pa·s·m, or less than 1.5 ng/Pa·s·m once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed-cell polyurethane spray foam that has a vapor permeance of less than 50 ng/Pa·s·m2, less than 40 ng/Pa·s·m2, less than 30 ng/Pa·s·m2 or less than 20 ng/Pa·s·m2 once applied onto the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is medium-density two-part closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation having a thickness of at least 38 millimeters and a long term thermal resistance (LTTR) R-value between 6.9 and 7.0 per inch. In some embodiments, the foam 108 is medium-density two-part closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation having a thickness of at least 45 millimeters and a long term thermal resistance (LTTR) R-value between 5.1 and 6.8 per inch. The R-value is a measure of thermal resistance, or ability of heat to transfer from hot to cold, through a material (such as foam 108) or an assembly of materials (such as the framing system 100). The higher the R-value, the more a material prevents heat transfer. R-value depends on the resistance of the material to heat conduction, as well as the thickness. R varies with temperature but in construction it is common to treat it as being constant for a given material (or assembly). It is closely related to the thermal transmittance (U-value) of a material or assembly, and can be simply added for materials and assemblies that are arranged in layers, or scaled proportionately if the thickness of a material changes. R-values expressed in United States customary units are about 5.67 times larger than those expressed in metric (SI) units. R is expressed as the thickness of the material normalized to the thermal conductivity, and under uniform conditions it is the ratio of the temperature difference across an insulator and the heat flux density (heat transfer per unit time per unit area, {dot over (Q)}A) through it or R=ΔT/{dot over (Q)}A.
In some embodiments, a thickness of the foam 108 overlaying the portion of the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102 is at least 0.5 inches thick. In some embodiments, the foam 108 provides an R-value of at least 5. In some embodiments, the foam 108 provides an R-value of at least 6.
In some embodiments, the foam is a two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam and the thickness of the foam in overlaying the portion of the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102 is at least 0.8 inches thick and provides an R-value of at least 6.
In some embodiments, the foam is two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam 108 and the thickness of the foam overlaying the portion of the first side 102A of the exterior siding 102 is at least 0.8 inches thick.
In some embodiments, the foam is a two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam 108 having a permeance of one perm or less as measured under ASTM E96. A perm is a measure of resistance to the transmission of water vapor and is equal to the number of grains of water vapor (7000 grains=1 lb.) that passes through 1 square feet of the material in 1 hour when the vapor pressure differential between two sides of the material equals 1 inch of mercury pressure (0.49 psi).
In some embodiments, the foam 108 is a two-part closed cell spray polyurethane foam overlaid on the portion of the exterior siding and has a density of at least 1.5 pounds per cubic foot, at least 1.6 pounds per cubic foot, at least 1.7 pounds per cubic foot, at least 1.8 pounds per cubic foot or at least 1.9 pounds per cubic foot.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 having an emissivity of 0.50 or less is attached to the second side of each respective structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements as illustrated in
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is pre-treated polymer web infused with condensed small particle (nano) aluminum vapor with clear-seal corrosion protection. In some embodiments, copper is used instead of aluminum to manufacture the radiant barrier. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is formed by depositing a metallic layer on a continuous basis over a web in a vacuum chamber. For instance, in some such embodiments, the metallic layer is deposited on the web as the web is spooled through a vacuum chamber at a defined rate of speed between a feed roller and a take-up roller over a cold rotating drum.
In some embodiments, the web is a polymeric web, such as a polyester [e.g. PET, polyethylene terphalate), polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE)] film. In some embodiments, a metal-evaporation unit is used to evaporate and deposit a metallic layer over the web. In some embodiments, the speed of the rotating drum is controlled to produce the desired layer thickness. In some embodiments, a conventional pre-treatment plasma unit is used prior to the metallization step to clean the web surface and promote adherence of the metal layer to the web. In some embodiments, an additional plasma unit is operated with a gas containing an oxygen-bearing component to passivate the metal layer. In this way, by using a controlled amount of oxygen or, preferably, a plasma gas containing an oxygen-bearing constituent with conventional plasma gases will produce inline oxidation of the metallic layer as necessary to prevent the subsequent formation of hydrated aluminum oxides. The effect of the treatment prevents peel-off and blocking and also provides long-term resistance to deterioration produced by moisture and other environmental factors. In some embodiments, the plasma unit (which in some embodiments consists of a low-voltage plasma treater and a source of oxygen-bearing gas mixed with conventional plasma gases such as argon, helium or nitrogen) is added to the process stream in the vacuum chamber. The plasma treater is positioned past the metal-vaporization unit to treat the metallic layer deposited over the underlying polymer web. As described, the oxygen-bearing gases in the plasma gas result in the passivation of the metal layer in a continuous inline sequence of operation. Although less preferred, in some embodiments oxygen alone is used and this provides a significant degree of passivation.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is manufactured and/or has the properties disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,807,232, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
In some embodiments, the metal is layered on both sides of the fabric. In some embodiments, the metal is layered only on one side of the fabric. In embodiments where the metal is layered only on one side of the fabric, the metal side of the fabric faces either the interior siding 116 and thus towards an interior space of the building when installed or away from the interior siding 116 and thus facing away from the interior space of the building in accordance with the present disclosure. For instance, in hot climates, such as Arizona, it is more often than not desirable to keep heat out of the interior space of the building. In such embodiments where the radiant barrier has a single metal face, the metal side of the fabric is installed away from the interior siding 116 and thus facing away from the interior space of the building. In this way, the radiant barrier 110 acts to keep heat out of the interior space of the building. By contrast, in cold climates, such as Canada, it is more often than not desirable to keep heat in the interior space of the building. In such embodiments where the radiant barrier has a single metal face, the metal side of the fabric is installed facing the interior siding 116 and thus facing toward the interior space of the building. In this way, the radiant barrier 110 acts to keep heat in the interior space of the building. Advantageously, in embodiments where the radiant barrier 110 is metal coated on both sides, the radiant barrier 110 acts to keep out heat from the interior space of the building on hot days and to keep heat in the interior space of the building on cold days.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 reflects more than 95% of the infrared or radiant heat that strikes one side of it, and does not emit over 5% of infrared or radiant heat through it. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 reflects more than 90% of the infrared or radiant heat that strikes one side of it, and does not emit over 10% of infrared or radiant heat through it. In some embodiments the radiant barrier 110 is a 3100 Series Radiant Barrier, a PoliFoil Low-E film or fabric, or an IrWRAP low-E membrane available from Sigma Technologies. See the Internet at sigma-technologies.com/3100-series-rb-quality/.
In some embodiments, one side of the radiant barrier 110 is at least 95% reflective and less than 5% emissive when tested to ASTM C1371. In some embodiments, both sides of the radiant barrier 110 is at least 95% reflective and less than 5% emissive when tested to ASTM C1371. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 does not exhibit delamination or bleeding when tested to ASTM C1313. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 exhibits no loss of reflective surface when tested to ASTM D3310. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 does not exhibit growth of fungi or mildew when tested to ASTM C1338. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 exhibits at least 6.9 Perms of Water Vapor Transmission when tested to ASTM E96. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier has 0 Flame Spread and 10 Smoke when tested to ASTM E84 with ASTM E2599. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 exhibits at least 46.8 MD and 27.4 CD Trapezoidal Tear Strength when tested to ASTM D4533.
In some alternative embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is a laminate.
As illustrated in the Figures, the radiant barrier 110 is adapted to include a plurality of indented portions. Each respective indented portion 112 in the plurality of indented portions is indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity 106 in the plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space 114, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the corresponding polyurethane foam 108 and the radiant barrier 110 in each structural frame element cavity 106 in the plurality of structural frame element cavities. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is stapled along a third side of a first structural frame element and a fourth side of a second structural frame element, the second structural frame element adjacent to the first structural frame element, in the plurality of structural frame elements, thereby forming a first indented portion 112, in the plurality of indented portions, between the first structural frame element and the second structural frame element, and the second sealed air space 118 in the second plurality of sealed air spaces in the first indented portion has a width that is determined by an air spacing between the radiant barrier 110 within the first indented portion and the interior siding 116. In some such embodiments, the air spacing is between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches.
An interior siding 116 covers the radiant barrier 110 and is attached to the second side of each structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements thereby creating a respective second sealed space 118, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, between the radiant barrier 110 and the interior siding 116 in each structural frame element cavity 106 in the plurality of structural frame element cavities. In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having a thickness of ½-inch (13 mm), ⅝-inch (16 mm), ¼-inch (6.4 mm), ⅜-inch (9.5 mm), ¾-inch (19.0 mm) or 1-inch (25.4 mm). In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises one or more wood panels, the interior siding 116 comprises one or more sheetrock panels, and each structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements has a two-inch by four-inch cross section and is at least a foot long. In some such embodiments, each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a joist, stud, or rafters. In some such embodiments, each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a component of a truss.
In some embodiments, the exterior siding 102 comprises one or more wood panels, the interior siding 116 comprises one or more sheetrock panels, and each structural frame element 104 in the plurality of structural frame elements has a two-inch by six-inch cross section and is at least a foot long. In some such embodiments, each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a joist, stud, or rafters. In some such embodiments, each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements is a component of a truss.
With reference to
In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces. In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater.
In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces. In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater.
In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces. In some embodiments, the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater.
In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding 102 comprises wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces. In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding 102 comprises wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater.
In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding 102 is wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces. In some embodiments, the interior siding 116 comprises a sheet rock panel having an R-value of less than 0.6, the exterior siding 102 is wood siding or plywood having an R-value of less than 1.0, and the framing system 100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater.
Embodiments in which the framing system is part of a wall (e.g., each of the structural elements is a stud) have been disclosed. However, the framing system can be used in other parts of a building. For example, in some embodiments, referring to
Moreover, in
Moreover, the framing system can be installed using rafters, rather than studs or joists. In such instances, each structural frame element cavity is formed between adjacent rafters and the exterior siding 102 supports the roof
Moreover, in still other embodiments, the framing system can be installed using the trusses in an attic, where each respective structural element in the plurality of structural element is a component of a truss in a corresponding plurality of trusses. Trusses are manufactured systems that are engineered from component wood members connected by flat metal plates with teeth that are pressed into the wood. A “web” structure of triangles is created which balances tension and compression in the component members and can span significant distances. In some instances, trusses are built at the job site using plywood and nails instead of the metal plates. More typically, trusses are built in factories according to the design and specifications prepared by licensed engineers. The variety of truss designs is substantial, both in the ‘web’ design and the styles of roofs that can be created.
Referring to
The framing system of the present disclosure can include additional, optional or alternative components. Also, the framing system of the present disclosure can include the same material layers but configured in different ways, for instance, disposed in different orders with respect to each other, to achieve different effects. For instance, in hot climates, such as in Arizona, it is more often than not desirable to keep heat out of the interior space of the building. In such cases, it would be more beneficial to have the radiant barrier installed adjacent the exterior siding 102 so that most of the heat from the outside is reflected back by the radiant barrier to the outside and thus would not be transferred to and absorbed by the other components of the framing system. In embodiments where the radiant barrier has a single metal face, the metal side of the fabric is installed facing the exterior siding 102. As such, the radiant barrier 110 acts to effectively keep heat out of the interior space of the building.
As an exemplary,
The radiant barrier 110 is disposed between the exterior siding 102 and the structural frame elements 1104, and has an emissivity of 0.50 or less. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 has an emissivity of less than 0.08 or less than 0.06. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements abuts the first side of the exterior siding with the radiant barrier in between. In some embodiments, the structural frame elements 1104 are arranged in parallel to each other, with each respective structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval and thus creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities 1106. For instance, in some embodiments, each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements 1104 is arranged along the exterior siding at an interval of 24 inches from the center of one structural frame element to the center of the next structural frame element.
With reference in particular to
In some embodiments, the foam 108 overlays the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by each respective structural frame element cavity. In some embodiments, the foam is a closed cell spray foam. In some embodiments, the foam has a thickness of at least 0.5 inches, at least 1.0 inches, at least 1.5 inches, or at least 2.0 inches.
The interior siding 116 is attached to an opposing second side of each structural frame element in the plurality of structural frame elements. A second plurality of sealed air spaces 1118 is formed, each between the foam 108 and the interior siding 116 in each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities. The second sealed air space 1118 in the second plurality of sealed air spaces has a width (1404-1-1404-2) that is determined by an air spacing between the foam 118 within each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities and the interior siding 116. In some embodiments, the air spacing of the second sealed air space 1118 is between 1 inch and 3 inches, between 2 inches and 4 inches, or between 3 inches and 5 inches.
The framing system 1100 can be installed in a variety of places including but not limited to a wall, a ceiling, a floor, or a roof. In some embodiments, the framing system 1100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater. In some embodiments, without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces, the framing system 1100 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater.
Referring now to
The radiant barrier 110 is disposed between the exterior siding 102 and the first plurality of structural frame elements 1004. The first side of each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements abuts the first side of the exterior siding with the radiant barrier in between. In some embodiments, the first structural frame elements 1004 are arranged in parallel to each other, with each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements spaced along the exterior siding at a common interval and thus creating a plurality of structural frame element cavities 1010.
In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 includes a plurality of indented portions 112, each of which is indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity and thus creates a respective first sealed air space 1114 between the first side of the exterior siding and the radiant barrier in each structural frame element cavity 1106. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 110 is attached to a first side of each respective structural frame element in the first plurality of structural frame elements. The first sealed air space 1114 in the first plurality of sealed air spaces in the first indented portion has a width (1402-1-1402-2) that is determined by an air spacing between the radiant barrier 110 within the first indented portion and the first side of the exterior siding 102. In some embodiments, the air spacing of the first sealed air space 1114 is between 0.25 inches and 1.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 1.75 inches, or between 0.75 inches and 2.0 inches.
In some embodiments, the foam 108 overlays the indented portion of the radiant barrier bounded by each respective structural frame element cavity. In some embodiments, the foam is a closed cell spray foam. In some embodiments, the foam has a thickness of at least 0.5 inches, at least 1.0 inches, at least 1.5 inches, or at least 2.0 inches.
The structural frame elements 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements are arranged in parallel to each other and are interspersed among and parallel to the first plurality of structural frame elements 1004. Each respective structural frame element 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements comprises a first side and an opposing second side. The first side of each respective structural frame element 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements is coupled with the foam 108 in the corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities. For instance, in an embodiment, the first side of each respective structural frame element 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements is embedded or inserted in the foam in the corresponding structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The interior siding 116 is attached to the opposing second side of each structural frame element 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements, thereby creating a second plurality of sealed air spaces 1518. Each sealed air space in the second plurality of sealed air spaces 1518 is between the foam 108 and the interior siding 116, and bounded by two adjacent structural frame elements in the second plurality of structural frame elements. The second sealed air space 1518 in the second plurality of sealed air spaces has a width (1504-1-1504-2) that is determined by an air spacing between the foam 118 within each structural frame element cavity in the plurality of structural frame element cavities and the interior siding 116. In some embodiments, the air spacing of the second sealed air space 1518 is between 1 inch and 3 inches, between 2 inches and 4 inches, or between 3 inches and 5 inches.
The framing system 1500 can be installed in a variety of places including but not limited to a wall, a ceiling, a floor, or a roof. In some embodiments, the framing system 1500 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater. In some embodiments, without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces, the framing system 1500 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater.
Referring to
The framing system 1600 further comprises a second plurality of structural frame elements (of which 1012-1 and 1012-2 are illustrated in
A radiant barrier 110 having an emissivity of 0.50 or less attached to the second side of each respective structural frame element in the second plurality of structural frame elements. The radiant barrier includes a plurality of indented portions. Each indented portion in the plurality of indented portions is indented into a corresponding structural frame element cavity 1610 in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities, thereby creating a respective first sealed air space 1614, in a first plurality of sealed air spaces, between the foam and the radiant barrier 110 in each structural frame element cavity 1610 in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities.
The framing system 1600 further comprises an interior siding 116 covering the radiant barrier 110 and attached to the second side of each structural frame element 1012 in the second plurality of structural frame elements thereby creating a respective second sealed space 1618, in a second plurality of sealed air spaces, between the radiant barrier 110 and the interior siding 116 in each structural frame element cavity 1610 in the second plurality of structural frame element cavities.
In some embodiments, the first sealed air space 1614 in the first plurality of sealed air spaces in the first indented portion has a width (1602-1-1602-2) that is determined by an air spacing between the foam 118 and the indented portion of the radiant barrier 110. In some embodiments, the air spacing of the first sealed air space 1614 is between 0.25 inches and 1.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 1.75 inches, or between 0.75 inches and 2.0 inches.
In some embodiments, the second sealed air space 1618 in the second plurality of sealed air spaces has a width (1604-1-1604-2) that is determined by an air spacing between the indented portion of the radiant barrier 110 and the interior siding 116. In some embodiments, the air spacing of the second sealed air space 1618 is between 1 inch and 3 inches, between 2 inches and 4 inches, or between 3 inches and 5 inches.
The framing system 1600 can be installed in a variety of places including but not limited to a wall, a ceiling, a floor, or a roof. In some embodiments, the framing system 1600 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater. In some embodiments, without accounting for the first plurality of sealed air spaces or the second plurality of sealed air spaces, the framing system 1600 has a wood frame wall R-value of 13 or greater, a wood frame wall R-value of 16 or greater, or a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or greater.
The terminology used in the present disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and/or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
As used herein, the term “if” may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting,” depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined” or “if [a stated condition or event] is detected” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “upon detecting [the stated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting [the stated condition or event],” depending on the context.
All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/710,497, filed Sep. 20, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,957,715, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15710497 | Sep 2017 | US |
| Child | 15965375 | US |
