Innovative, modular, highly-insulating panel and method of use thereof

Abstract

An innovative, low-density, highly-insulating modular panel for use in many applications and industries. The panel consists of a frame and a “tube” or “pocket” of thin, low-density, lightweight material that has the capability of sufficiently stretching to surround the frame when the “tube” or “pocket” is pulled onto it. When fabricated, the “tube” or “pocket” panel covering was made slightly narrower than the frame. The “tube” or “pocket” is then secured along the previously open end or ends of the panel, where frame was inserted, by various fastening devices. The panel is durable and cost-effective for numerous uses. It has very good solar-control and insulating qualities. It also has usefulness as an improved windbreak panel, an improved noise-reduction panel, an improved hail and impact protection panel, a fall protection panel and, in some applications, an improved pollution-control panel.

1 . A unique, modular, highly-insulating panel comprising:
 A frame that may be preformed or “bent”; and   A fabric/material “tube” or “pocket” (panel covering) to be pulled completely over the frame and securely fastened with Velcro or C-dips   Wherein the frame, and its tube or pocket (covering), create a finished panel that is self-tensioning and that is useful in many industries and applications.   
     
     
         2 . The panel of  claim 1  wherein unique corner components may be used to construct the frame, along with straight end and side pieces, instead of having the frame preformed or “bent”. 
     
     
         3 . The panel of  claim 1  wherein unique U-shaped end components may be used to construct the frame, along with straight side pieces, instead of having the frame preformed of “bent”. 
     
     
         4 . The panel of  claim 1  onto which solar collectors are mounted or affixed in an operable position to generate electric power from sunlight. 
     
     
         5 . The panel of  claim 1  which provides a method of protecting property from hail and/or impact damage. 
     
     
         6 . The panel of  claim 1  which provides a method of blocking or deflecting wind currents, including use of the panel to help increase wind speeds approaching wind power equipment. 
     
     
         7 . The panel of  claim 1  which provides a method of reducing noise levels. 
     
     
         8 . The panel of  claim 1  which provides a method of achieving enhanced dust control. 
     
     
         9 . The panel of  claim 1  which serves as a barrier to reduce the likelihood of corrosion. 
     
     
         10 . The panel of  claim 1  which serves as a physical and/or visual barrier to provide fall-protection. 
     
     
         11 . The panel of  claim 1  which provides a method of creating environmental credits such as Carbon-reduction credits for energy-saving systems/products, Nox reduction credits, RECs (Renewable Energy Credits), Particulate Matter (PM) reduction credits and/or other incentives, rebates or credits. 
     
     
         12 . A unique, modular, highly-insulating panel comprising:
 A suitable frame over which is pulled/attached a stretchy fabric or material, sewn into a “tube” or “pocket” configuration, onto which a non-stretchy, highly-insulating material has also been affixed, on one of both sides of the panel in the form of rectangular strips, as squares or as circles or dots in order to create a more efficient, a more aesthetic and/or a more durable insulating panel.