EA042162B1 - EXTERIOR WALL PANEL AND EXTERIOR WALL PANEL ASSEMBLY - Google Patents

Description

This application claims priority of provisional application US 62/597,558, filed December 12, 2017, titled Exterior wall panel and exterior wall panel assembly. This US provisional application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Technical field

The technical field to which the invention relates relates to exterior wall panels, more specifically to exterior wall panels assembled in factories and ready for construction of residential, commercial and industrial buildings. In addition, it refers to assemblies containing such external wall panels, which are protected from the ingress of air and the transfer of moisture.

State of the art

Exterior wall panels typically include a frame, a heat insulating layer and protective membranes to protect the panels from outdoor conditions, to drain water and prevent condensation from entering the inside and/or outside. The heat insulating layer usually contains a section of wool insulation.

Prefabricated exterior wall panels are manufactured in a controlled factory facility to control the quality of the product, while conventional building techniques require walls to be erected on site during fluctuating weather conditions. It is known in the art that the use of prefabricated wall panels and components facilitates the site installation process, reduces construction time, and prevents schedule delays due to weather, thereby reducing construction costs.

However, protective membranes intended to cover wall panels are typically partially attached to the wall panels at the factory and fully attached to the wall panels on site during erection. The end portions of the protective membranes are left free or loose on the wall surface until adjacent wall panels are adjacent and aligned to form the wall panel assembly. Thus, prefabricated wall panels must be stored indoors until they are hermetically sealed from each other on site and therefore require significant storage space.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for exterior wall panels and exterior wall panel assemblies that can overcome or at least minimize some of the prior art disadvantages described above.

The essence of the invention

According to a general aspect, an exterior wall panel is provided, comprising a wall frame comprising a plurality of horizontal stud elements and a plurality of vertical stud elements forming together an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface located at some distance from the inner wall surface, the wall frame having a first a pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced peripheral edges; a vapor barrier membrane applied to the inner surface of the wall and covering at least partially at least one of: a first pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges fixed thereon; and a weatherproof membrane applied to the outer surface of the wall and at least partially covering at least one of the first pair of spaced peripheral edges and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges and attached thereto.

In one embodiment, the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier overlap along at least a portion of one of a first pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel further comprises a bonding joint installed on at least one of: the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane, and extending along at least one of: the first pair of spaced apart another peripheral edge and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges, wherein the bonding joint is in contact with at least one of a vapor barrier membrane and a weather barrier membrane on the other outer wall panel in case the configuration is made in an adjacent and adjoining configuration.

In one embodiment of the invention, the bonding joint comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel further comprises a rigid peak having a first section superimposed on the outer surface of the wall, and a second section extending past at least one of the first pair of spaced peripheral edges and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges. peripheral edges.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first portion of the hard visor is overlaid and attached to one of a weatherproof membrane and a weatherproof membrane.

- 1 042162 fumes, and the second section of the hard canopy is aligned and attached to one of: a membrane that protects against weathering, and a membrane that protects against fumes, placed adjacent to the outer wall panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first section of the rigid canopy is inserted between the wall frame and the weatherproof membrane.

In one embodiment of the invention, the second portion is aligned externally with respect to the weather protection membrane placed adjacent to the outer wall panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the exterior wall panel further comprises a rigid thermal insulation panel externally applied to the wall framing, wherein the weather protection membrane is externally applied to the rigid thermal insulation panel; outer cladding superimposed on the outside on a rigid heat-insulating panel and a membrane that protects against weathering; and a plurality of spaced-apart pavement tiles extending between the weatherproof membrane and the outer cladding.

In one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of spaced-apart coating tiles are in a stacking configuration and form a plurality of tile layers between the weatherproof membrane and the outer cladding.

In one embodiment of the invention, the exterior wall panel further comprises a rigid thermal insulation panel applied to the wall frame from the outside, wherein the weather protection membrane is superimposed on the rigid thermal insulation panel from the outside; outer cladding superimposed on the outside on a rigid heat-insulating panel and a membrane that protects against weathering; and a plurality of spaced-apart pavement tiles extending between the weatherproof membrane and the outer cladding.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first portion of the hard visor is at least partially sandwiched between the weatherproof membrane and the vapor barrier membrane.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first portion of the rigid canopy extends between the rigid thermal insulation panel and the weatherproof membrane.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel further comprises a bonding joint installed on at least one of: the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane, and extending along at least one of: the first pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced apart peripheral edges, wherein the bonding joint is in contact with at least one of an anti-evaporative membrane and an anti-weather membrane placed adjacent to the outer wall panel, wherein the rigid the visor protects the bonding connection between the outer wall panel and the adjacent outer wall panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel further comprises a load-bearing element abutting against and attached to the wall frame from the inside and extending at least partially between the vapor barrier membrane and the wall frame.

In one embodiment of the invention, the wall frame defines the interior space, and the outer wall panel further comprises a heat insulating layer extending within the interior space and between the load-bearing element and the rigid heat insulating panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges comprises a top edge and a bottom edge, and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges comprises side edges.

In one embodiment of the invention, the rigid thermal insulation panel comprises a beveled edge extending downward from the outer surface of the wall, and a second section of the rigid canopy is located above the beveled edge adjacent the outer wall panel.

In accordance with another general aspect, an exterior wall panel assembly is provided, comprising an assembly of exterior wall panels in accordance with the present disclosure, wherein the assembly of exterior wall panels is in an adjacent and adjacent configuration.

In accordance with another general aspect, a method is provided for forming an outer wall panel assembly, comprising providing a first outer wall panel in accordance with the present invention, providing a bonding joint for at least one of: a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced apart peripheral edges. from each other of the peripheral edges of the first outer wall panel, providing a second outer wall panel in accordance with the present invention, and making the second outer wall panel in an adjacent and adjacent configuration relative to the first outer wall panel, with at least one of: the first pair of spaced apart the other peripheral edges and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges of the second outer wall panel is in contact with the bonding joint.

In accordance with another general aspect, an exterior wall panel assembly is provided comprising a plurality of exterior wall panels configured in an adjacent and adjacent configuration.

- 2 042162 tion, each of these outer wall panels contains a wall frame containing a set of horizontal rack elements and a set of vertical rack elements, jointly forming the inner surface of the wall and the outer surface of the wall, located at a distance from the inner surface of the wall, as well as a second pair of spaced from each other peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges; a vapor barrier membrane covering the inner surface of the wall and covering, at least partially, at least one of: a first pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges, and a membrane attached to it that protects against weatherproof, overlapping the outer surface of the wall and covering, at least partially, at least one of: the first pair of spaced peripheral edges and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges also attached to it.

In accordance with the general aspect, an external wall panel is proposed. The outer wall panel contains a wall frame, which contains a set of horizontal rack elements and a set of vertical rack elements, jointly forming the inner surface of the wall and the outer surface of the wall, located at a distance from the inner surface of the wall, and a second pair of peripheral edges spaced apart from each other, passing between the first a pair of spaced apart peripheral edges; a vapor barrier membrane covering the inner surface of the wall and covering, at least partially, at least one of: a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges attached thereto; a weatherproof membrane covering the outer surface of the wall and covering, at least partially, at least one of: a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges attached thereto; and a bonding joint installed on at least one of: the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane, and extending along at least one of: the peripheral edges, the bonding joint being in contact with at least one of : an anti-evaporative membrane and an anti-weather membrane from the other outer wall panel, if provided in an adjacent configuration.

According to another general aspect, an exterior wall panel is provided. The outer wall panel contains a wall frame, containing a set of horizontal rack elements, and a set of vertical rack elements, forming together the inner surface of the wall and the outer surface of the wall, located at some distance from the inner surface of the wall, and the wall frame has a first pair of peripheral edges spaced from each other and a second pair of spaced apart peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges; a vapor barrier applied to and attached to an inner wall surface, a vapor barrier that extends beyond at least one of the peripheral edges, overlapping the vapor barrier from another outer wall panel, when in an adjacent configuration; a weatherproof membrane covering and attached to the outer surface of the wall; a rigid cap that overlaps the outer surface of the wall and that extends beyond at least one of: the peripheral edges, wherein the rigid cap can overlap and be secured to the weatherproof membrane from another exterior wall panel if it is in an adjacent configuration, and a bonding joint mounted on and extending along at least one of the peripheral edges, wherein the bonding joint is in contact with at least one peripheral edge from the other outer wall panel, if provided in an adjacent configuration.

In one embodiment of the invention, the bonding joint comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape.

In one embodiment of the invention, the exterior wall panel further comprises: a load-bearing element abutting against and attached to the wall frame, wherein the vapor barrier membrane is superimposed on the outside of the load-bearing element; a rigid thermal insulation panel adjoining the wall frame, wherein the weather protection membrane is externally applied to the rigid thermal insulation panel; a wall frame forming an interior space and an exterior wall panel further comprising a heat insulating layer within the interior space and also between the supporting member and the rigid heat insulating panel; and an outer cladding superimposed on the outside of the rigid heat insulating panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first pair of spaced peripheral edges comprises a top edge and a bottom edge, and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges comprises side edges.

In accordance with yet another general aspect, an exterior wall panel assembly is provided that comprises a plurality of exterior wall panels configured in an adjacent configuration. Every

- 3 042162 day of the outer wall panels contains a wall frame containing a set of horizontal rack elements and a set of vertical rack elements, jointly forming the inner surface of the wall and the outer surface of the wall, located at some distance from the inner surface of the wall, and the wall frame containing the first pair of spaced peripheral edges, and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced peripheral edges; a vapor barrier membrane applied to an inner surface of the wall and covering at least partially at least one of: a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges, and attached thereto; a weatherproof membrane applied to the outer surface of the wall and covering at least partially at least one of: a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges and attached thereto; and a bonding joint installed on at least one of the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane and extending along at least one of the peripheral edges; wherein, in the case of an adjacent configuration, the bonding joint of the first of the outer wall panels comes into contact with at least one of the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier adjacent to one of the outer wall panels to create a seal between them.

In accordance with yet another general aspect, an exterior wall panel assembly is provided that comprises a plurality of exterior wall panels configured in an adjacent configuration. Each of the outer wall panels contains a wall frame, containing a set of horizontal rack elements and a set of vertical rack elements, jointly forming the inner surface of the wall and the outer surface of the wall, located at some distance from the inner surface of the wall, and the wall frame has a first pair of spaced peripheral edges and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced peripheral edges; a membrane that protects against evaporation, superimposed on the inner surface of the wall and attached to it; wherein the vapor barrier extends past at least one of the peripheral edges; a weatherproof membrane applied to and attached to the outer surface of the wall; a rigid visor applied to the outer surface of the wall and extending past at least one of the peripheral edges; and a bonding joint mounted on and extending along at least one of the peripheral edges; in the case of an adjacent configuration, the fastening joint of one of the first of the outer wall panels comes into contact with at least one peripheral edge of the other outer wall panel, the vapor barrier membrane, one of the first of the outer wall panels is upper in relation to the membrane protecting from the fumes, the other outer wall panel, and the rigid canopy of the first of the outer wall panels is the top and can be attached to the weatherproof membrane from the other outer wall panel.

In accordance with yet another general aspect, an exterior wall panel is provided that comprises a wall frame comprising a plurality of horizontal stud members and a plurality of vertical stud members collectively defining an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface located some distance from the inner wall surface, and a second pair of spaced apart peripheral edges extending between the first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges; while the horizontal rack elements have an outer inclined edge extending down to the outer surface of the wall; and a drainage baffle superimposed on at least one of and attached to the outer sloped edge and the outer surface of the wall, and the drainage barrier is in contact with the outer sloped edge of the other outer wall panel, if performed in an adjacent configuration, to drain water .

In one embodiment of the invention, the exterior wall panel further comprises a vapor barrier applied to and attached to the inner surface of the wall, wherein the vapor barrier extends past at least one of the peripheral edges and can be applied to the membrane, a vapour-proofing, other outer wall panel, if implemented in an adjacent configuration, having a beveled edge extending downward from the outer surface of the wall, with a drainage baffle superimposed on the beveled edge of the rigid heat-insulating panel and attached to it from the outside; and a weather protection membrane externally applied to and attached to the rigid heat insulating panel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the drainage partition contains a rigid visor.

Brief description of graphic materials

Fig. 1 is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels shown in their natural setting, which includes a roof structure, foundation wall, and floor trusses, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

- 4 042162

Fig. 2A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in a spaced apart configuration with a vapor barrier membrane and a weather barrier covering the peripheral edges of the exterior wall panels, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. .

Fig. 2B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 2A in a vertically adjacent configuration.

Fig. 2C is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels made in a spaced apart configuration, with a vapor barrier membrane and a weather barrier membrane, respectively, applied to the interior and exterior wall surfaces of the exterior wall panels in accordance with with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2D is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two outer wall panels in a spaced apart configuration with rigid thermal insulation panels and bevelled stud members, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2E is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels configured in a spaced apart configuration with an evaporative membrane and a weather protection membrane, respectively, applied to the interior and exterior wall surfaces of the exterior wall panels, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, furthermore, the two outer wall panels comprise spaced apart tiles on the outer surfaces of the walls, the tiles forming a plurality of tile layers.

Fig. 2F is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels made in a spaced apart configuration with rigid thermal insulation panels having beveled edges and a floor truss cooperating therewith, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, one of the exterior wall panels additionally contains a rigid visor placed between the tiles of the coating, and a membrane that protects against atmospheric influences on the other one of the outer wall panels.

Fig. 3A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in a spaced apart configuration, with a vapor barrier membrane and a weather barrier covering the peripheral edges of the exterior wall panels, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 3A in a horizontally adjacent configuration.

Fig. 4A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels arranged in an angled configuration and spaced apart with an evaporative membrane and a weather protection membrane covering the peripheral edges of the exterior wall panels in accordance with an embodiment. inventions.

Fig. 4B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels arranged in an angled configuration and spaced apart, with an evaporative membrane and a weatherproof membrane partially covering the peripheral edges of the exterior wall panels, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4C is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 4B adjacent to each other to form an outside corner.

Fig. 5A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in an angled configuration and spaced apart with an evaporative membrane and a weather protection membrane covering the peripheral edges of the exterior wall panels in accordance with an embodiment. implementation of the invention.

Fig. 5B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 5A adjacent to each other to form an outside corner.

Fig. 6A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of a configuration comprising an exterior wall panel, a foundation wall, and a floor truss, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 6B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of a configuration comprising an exterior wall panel, a foundation wall, and a floor truss, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 6C is a fragmented cross-sectional view of the outer wall pa

- 5 042162 of the sill adjacent to the foundation wall and the floor truss in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 6D is a fragmented cross-sectional view of a configuration comprising an exterior wall panel, a foundation wall, and a floor truss, in accordance with one further embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in a set-back configuration and a floor truss mountable to one of the two exterior wall panels, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 7A in a vertically adjacent configuration and a floor truss mounted to horizontal studs attached to the outer wall panel assembly.

Fig. 7C is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in a stand-off configuration with rigid thermal insulation panels having bevelled edges and a floor truss cooperating therewith, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7D is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two outer wall panels in a setback configuration and a floor truss cooperating therewith, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7E is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel assembly showing the two exterior wall panels shown in FIG. 7D in a vertically adjacent configuration and a floor truss having an end portion engaged between the outer wall panels.

Fig. 7F is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels in a freestanding configuration with a bevelled rigid thermal insulation panel and a floor truss mounted thereon, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 is a fragmented cross-sectional view of an exterior wall panel adjacent to a roof structure, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 9A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels adjacent to the top and bottom edges of a window guard, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 9B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels mounted in a position adjacent to each side of a window or door opening, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 10A is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels and a floor truss mounted on a carrier attached to one of the two exterior wall panels.

Fig. 10B is a fragmented cross-sectional view of two exterior wall panels and a concrete floor slab mounted on a load-bearing member anchored to one of the two exterior wall panels.

Fig. 11A is a schematic view of a residential building showing an exterior wall panel assembled of three exterior wall panels in a horizontally adjacent configuration.

Fig. 11B is a schematic view of a residential building showing an exterior wall panel assembled of two exterior wall panels in a vertically adjacent configuration.

It should be noted that throughout the accompanying drawings, the same reference numbers are indicated by the same reference numbers.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In addition, although embodiments of the invention with respect to the exterior wall panel and exterior wall panel assembly and their respective parts consist of certain geometric configurations, as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometric shapes are essential and therefore should not be construed. in their limited sense. It should be understood, and it should also be obvious to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and the interaction between them, as well as other suitable geometric configurations, can be used to construct the exterior wall panel and exterior wall panel assembly, as will be briefly explained in this document, and as can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art. In addition, it should be appreciated that positional descriptions such as above, below, left, right, and the like, unless otherwise noted, are to be considered in the context of the drawings, and are not to be construed as limiting.

In the following description, the same reference numbers refer to like elements. Except

- 6 042162 In addition, for simplicity and clarity, namely in order not to overburden the figures with a collection of reference numbers, not all figures contain references to all components and features, and references to some components and features can only be found in one figure, as well as the components and features of the present disclosure, which are illustrated in other figures, can be easily derived from there. Embodiments of the invention, geometric configurations, indicated materials and/or dimensions shown in the figures are optional and are given by way of example only.

In addition, it should be understood that positioning descriptions such as inside, outside, top, bottom, front, back, left, right, and the like, unless otherwise noted, should be considered in the context of the figures, and they correspond to the position and orientation of the exterior wall panel and exterior wall assembly, and their respective parts, where the term internal corresponds to the position oriented towards the volume inside the building formed by the assembly of the combination of exterior wall panels or exterior wall panels assemblies, and the term exterior means being outside of the interior space. Positioning descriptions should not be considered limiting.

To provide a more concise description, some of the quantitative expressions given here may be qualified by the term approximately. It should be understood that whether the term approximately is used explicitly or not, any quantity given herein is intended to indicate an actual setpoint, and it is also intended to indicate an approximation to such a setpoint that can reasonably be assumed. based on the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art, including approximation due to experimental conditions and/or measurement conditions for such a given value.

In the following description, an approximate term has a meaning within an acceptable error range for a particular value, as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how said value is measured or determined, i. from the limitations of the measurement system. It is generally accepted that a 10% measure of accuracy is acceptable and covers the term approximately.

Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of the invention is depicted with respect to a pair of exterior wall panels 20 intended to be attached to form an exterior wall assembly 22 for use in a building that includes a roof 24, a foundation wall 26, and a floor truss 28. In one embodiment of the invention , foundation wall 26 is made of concrete. The workspace of the outer wall panel assembly 22 also includes horizontal stud members 30 attached to one of the outer wall panels 20 within it to receive and support the floor trusses 28. The roof 24 and foundation wall 26 may be provided with rigid thermal insulation panels 32 on surfaces of contact with the outer wall panel assembly 22 and floor trusses 28 in accordance with climatic and building codes, for example. Typically, another thermal insulation material, such as, but not limited to, polyurethane foam 34, may be applied to the area of the floor truss 28 adjacent to the foundation wall 26 for insulation purposes. As shown, the weatherproof membrane 36 covers the outer surface 38 of the concrete wall of the foundation 26 and acts as a means to drain water from the wall 26. The schematic line shows the position 40 of the earth cable with respect to the wall 26.

Several embodiments of the invention regarding exterior wall panels 20 and exterior wall assemblies 22 will be described below, but the workspace and foundation wall 26 on which exterior wall panels 20 and exterior wall assemblies 22 are mounted are substantially the same or have the same signs.

Referring to FIG. 2A and B, an embodiment of the invention is shown with respect to a pair of exterior wall panels 20 intended to be joined to form an exterior wall panel assembly 22 (only the tops and bottoms are shown to better show their interconnection). As shown, the outer wall panels 20 may be configured in a vertically adjacent configuration. It should be understood that the lower part of the first wall panel 20a, i. e. top panel, located above the second wall panel 20b, i. e. a bottom panel, which may also correspond to the bottom of the second wall panel, and that the top of the second wall panel may also correspond to the top of the first wall panel.

Each outer wall panel 20 includes a wall framing 42. Wherein, the wall framing 42 comprises a plurality of horizontal stud members 44 and a plurality of vertical stud members 46 (see FIG. 4B). In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the rack elements 44, 46 are made of wood and have a substantially rectangular cross section. For example, and without limitation, rack members may have nominal cross-sectional dimensions such as 2x3, 2x4, 2x6, or any other appropriately sized rack member.

A person skilled in the art will understand that the actual size of the element is less than the nominal size. For example, a 2x3 denomination feature measures 1-1/2 by 2-1/2. It should be clear that the rack elements 44, 46 can be made of other structural materials,

- 7 042162 such as concrete or metal, and have different cross sections.

Rack elements 44, 46 together form the inner surface 48 of the wall and the outer surface 50 of the wall, and the outer surface of the wall 50 is at some distance from the inner surface 48 of the wall. As can be understood, the inner surface 48 of the wall faces the space inside the building, while the outer surface 50 of the wall is open to the outside of the building. The inner and outer surfaces 48, 50 of the wall are spaced apart to form an interior space 78 which may contain thermal insulation elements of the building. In the embodiment shown, as a thermal insulating element of the building, the outer wall panel 20 comprises a thermal insulating layer 80 inserted and positioned within the interior space 78. The thermal insulating layer 80 typically comprises mineral wool material, but it should be understood that any material having a thermal insulation properties.

In one embodiment, the wall frame 42 defines a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges 52 and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges 54 (see FIG. 3A) extending between the first pair of spaced peripheral edges 52. As shown in Fig. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the exterior wall panels 20 have a vertically adjacent configuration, but as shown in FIG. 3A and 3B, they are arranged in a horizontally adjacent configuration, and in FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A and 5B, they are arranged in an angled configuration, as will be described in more detail below. The first pair of spaced peripheral edges 52 may thus include a top edge 52a and a bottom edge 52b, and a second spaced pair of peripheral edges 54 may include side edges corresponding to vertical, horizontal or corner configurations. It should be understood that in an alternative (not shown) embodiment of the invention for an exterior wall panel used as a roof component, the first pair of spaced peripheral edges and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges comprise side edges.

As shown in FIG. 2A and B, the outer wall panel 20 further comprises a vapor barrier membrane 62 applied to the inner surface 48 of the wall. By overlapping is meant that the vapor barrier membrane 62 is located on or above the inner surface 48 of the wall, but it is not necessarily in contact with the inner surface 48 of the wall. For example, in one embodiment, which will be described in more detail below, the outer wall panel 20 further comprises a structural panel 64 abutting against and attached to the wall frame 42. Structural panel 64 extends between inner wall surface 48 and vapor barrier membrane 62. In this embodiment, the vapor barrier membrane 62 is indirectly applied to and covers the inner wall surface 48 (either directly or indirectly in contact) and is also attached to the structural panel 64. In this embodiment, illustrated in fig. 2A and 2B, the vapor barrier membrane 62 covers, at least partially, at least one of a first pair of spaced apart peripheral edges 52 and a second pair of spaced peripheral edges 54 of the frame of the wall 42 and is attached thereto. . It should be understood that in the present description, the term overlay should be understood in the sense of placing or laying on top of or on, regardless of whether contact takes place or not. In addition, in the present description, the term coating should be understood in the sense of an overlay or covering in relation to something directly or indirectly.

Water vapor can cause numerous problems in buildings when its flow is not controlled. Moisture buildup can cause mold, mildew and damage. The direction of movement of water vapor usually occurs from inside the building to the outside of the building in cold climates such as Canada and the northern United States. Using air conditioning at warmer temperatures reduces humidity levels and causes water vapor to flow from the outside into the building. In the embodiment shown, the vapor barrier membrane 62 is applied to the inner wall surface 48 and is designed to prevent water vapor from condensing on the wall surface inside the building due to the higher water vapor pressure inside the building, as this can occur in colder climates. conditions. Therefore, it should be understood that in warmer climates, a vapor barrier membrane may cover and be attached to the outer surface of a wall formed by stud members (not shown). It should be understood that the vapor barrier membrane 62 may be made from any suitable material for resistance to water vapor diffusion, such as a non-limiting polymer (eg, polyethylene) or sheet metal or foil.

The outer wall panel 20 further comprises a weatherproof membrane 36 which is applied to the outer surface 50 of the wall. By the term superimposed is meant that the weatherproof membrane 36 is located on or above the outer surface 50 of the wall, but it is not necessarily in contact with the outer surface 50 of the wall. In one embodiment, the outer wall panel 20 includes a rigid thermal insulation panel 66 abutting against the wall frame 42 and positioned between the outer wall surface 50 and the weatherproof membrane 36. Membrane 36, for

- 8 042162 weatherproofing, may cover, at least partially, at least one of: the first pair of spaced peripheral edges 52 and the second pair of spaced peripheral edges 54 from the frame 42 of the wall. The weatherproof membrane 36 may be attached to the peripheral edges 52, 54 using adhesive tapes (not shown) or any other suitable mechanical fasteners.

It should be understood that the weatherproof membrane 36 may be made from any suitable material for wicking water from the outer surface of the rigid thermal insulation panel 66, such as, but not limited to, a polyethylene fiber membrane (eg, Tyvek®).

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2A and B, the vapor barrier membrane 62 extends from the inside of the wall frame 42 to cover one edge of the first pair of spaced peripheral edges 52, and further partially cover the outer thermal insulation panel 66 on the outside of the wall frame 42, forming a portion passing below the membrane 36, protecting from weathering. Considering the weatherproof membrane 36, it can be understood that the vapor barrier 62 can be attached to the peripheral edges 52, 54 and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 using adhesive tapes (not shown) or any other suitable mechanical fasteners.

In one embodiment, the vapor barrier membrane 62 and the weather barrier membrane 36 are installed and attached to the outer wall panel 20 at the factory. As shown in the figures, the weatherproof membrane 36 may partially overlap the vapor barrier 62 along part of the peripheral edges 52, 54 of the wall frame 42. As mentioned above, the evaporative membrane 62 and the weatherproof membrane 36 can be installed with the possibility of replacement on the outer wall panel 20 according to the climate, that is, in some embodiments of the invention, the evaporative membrane 62 , can be installed outside of the outer wall panel 20, and the weatherproof membrane 36 can be installed from the inside of the outer wall panel 20. In some embodiments of the invention (not shown), the evaporative membrane 62 can overlap the membrane 36 protecting from atmospheric influences. The membranes usually overlap each other in lengths from 1 to 12.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the lower outer wall panel 20b further comprises a bonding joint 68 mounted to the vapor barrier membrane 62 along one upper of the peripheral edges 52. The bonding joint 68 extends longitudinally along a respective one of the peripheral edges 52, 54 of the wall frame 42 and is in contact with the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the other outer wall panel 20a, if it is in an adjacent configuration. The bonding joint 68 may alternatively be configured to be in contact with the weather protection membrane 36 on one of the adjacent exterior wall panels. As described below, the bonding joint 68 may alternatively be installed on the weatherproof membrane 36 to contact either the weatherproof membrane 36 or the vapor barrier 62 on one of the adjacent exterior wall panels.

Let us now refer to FIG. 2B, which shows an exterior wall panel assembly 22 which includes the exterior wall panels 20a, 20b of FIG. 2A in adjacent and interlocked configuration. In this configuration, the bonding joint 68 provides a seal between the outer wall panels 20, between the engaging edges 52, 54. More specifically, the bonding joint 68 is compressed (clamped) between the peripheral edges 52, 54 of two adjacent and interlocking outer wall panels 20a, 20b.

The bonding connection 68 may thus provide a seal between two vapor barrier membranes 62, two weather barrier membranes 36, or a vapor barrier membrane 62 and a weather barrier membrane 36 on two adjacent and interlocking outer wall panels 20a, 20b.

In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the bonding joint 68 comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 70 (as depicted in FIG. 2A) for sealing adjacent panels during installation under force during installation of the wall panel assembly 22. It should be understood that the material of the bonding joint may be any suitable material that provides an airtight seal between the outer wall panels 20, such as available, as well as non-limiting, butyl rubber. The bonding joint 68 is typically positioned relative to the outer surface of the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 in accordance with the calculation of the dew point. This calculation provides information on the thickness of the thermal insulation panel, for example, which varies according to the climate and conditions inside the building.

As shown in FIG. 2A, one outer wall panel 20a further comprises a rigid canopy 72a (or inner rigid canopy 72a) located between (or having at least a portion located therebetween) the vapor barrier membrane 62 and the membrane 36,

- 9 042162 weatherproof (or between the overlapping portions of the vapor barrier membrane 62 and the weather barrier 36) to prevent water from penetrating through the joint formed between adjacent and adjacent peripheral edges 52, 54, and more specifically, between overlapping membranes.

The exterior wall panel 20 may also include an exterior cladding 74 mounted on a rigid thermal insulation panel 66 with a plurality of spaced-apart deck tiles 76 (eg, at least partially made of wood) extending therebetween. More specifically, the exterior cladding 74 is externally applied to a rigid thermal insulation panel 66 with deck tiles 76 such as, but not limited to, 1 to 3 wood deck tiles extending therebetween.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2A and B, at its aforementioned lower peripheral edge, the outer wall panel 20a also comprises a rigid cap 72b (or an additional rigid cap 72b or an outer rigid cap 72b) located under the outer cladding 74 and extending outwards and downwards to be superimposed on the outer cladding 74 vertically adjacent to the outer wall panel 20b. In the depicted embodiment of the invention, the additional hard canopy 72b (or outer hard canopy 72b) comprises first and second portions substantially perpendicular to each other.

For example, and without limitation, the hard caps 72a, 72b may be aluminum sheet or any other rigid material, such as plastic or rubber, suitable for protecting the joint between the peripheral edges 52, 54, such as plastic or rubber, suitable for preventing water from entering the joint. In the described embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panels 20a, 20b contain a drainage wall containing rigid canopies 72a, 72b. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to rigid visors 72a, 72b, which are at least partially made of a metallic material. Any other material having stiffness and/or impermeability properties may also be used to wick water away from the exterior wall panels in an adjacent configuration.

It should be understood that the design, shape, configuration, and location of the hard canopies 72a, 72b with respect to the facings 74, floor tiles 76, and hard thermal insulation panels 76 may differ from the embodiments shown.

As shown in FIG. 2A and 2B, the rigid cap 72a is applied to the outer surface 50 of the wall and extends past at least one of the peripheral edges 52, in this case the top edge. In an adjacent configuration, the hard canopy 72a of the first outer wall panel 20a is top and can be secured to the weatherproof membrane 36 of the second outer wall panel 20b. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 2, at least one of the rigid canopies 72a, 72b is sized and shaped to at least partially extend between the exterior cladding 74 and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 of the second exterior wall panel 20b.

In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the tiles of the cover 76 are designed in such a way as to facilitate the fastening of the outer cladding 74 on the rigid heat-insulating layer 66 or directly on the outer surface 50 of the wall formed by the rack elements 44, 46 of the frame 42 of the wall. The floor tiles 76 are further configured to receive a portion of at least one of the hard caps 72a, 72b to aid in the effectiveness of the drainage barrier.

As mentioned above, the exterior wall panel 20 includes a structural panel 64 abutting against and attached to the wall frame 42 on the interior side of the wall. In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the structural panel 64 is made of an oriented strand board material, but it should be understood that any material having structural properties may be used. In one embodiment, the vapor barrier membrane 62 is externally applied to the structural panel 64. As noted above, on the side of the wall that is oriented to the outside of the building, the outer wall panel 20 includes a rigid thermal insulation panel 66 adjacent to the wall framing 42. As shown, the weatherproof membrane 36 is externally applied to the rigid thermal insulation panel 66. In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 comprises expanded polystyrene material, but it should be understood that any material having thermal and structural properties may be used. properties.

As mentioned above, the thermal insulation layer 80 is located within the interior space 78 and between the structural panel 64 and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66.

As shown in FIG. 2B and, as mentioned above, when implemented in an adjacent configuration, a plurality of exterior wall panels 20 form an exterior wall panel assembly 22. Each exterior wall panel 20 includes a wall frame 42, an evaporative membrane 62, a weatherproof membrane 36 , and bonding joint 68. In an adjacent configuration, bonding joint 68 on the first of the outer wall panels 20 makes contact

- 10 042162 with at least one of: a membrane 62 that protects against evaporation, and a membrane 36 that protects against weathering, adjacent to one of the outer wall panels 20 to create a seal between them. It should be understood that the bonding joint 68 may be sandwiched between the peripheral edges 52, 54, each at least partially covered with a vapor barrier membrane 62 or a weather barrier membrane 36, or both. As shown, when adjacent to each other, the outer wall panels 20 can be fastened together with a carrier board 82 superimposed on the bearing elements 64 of adjacent and interlocking outer wall panels 20a, 20b, and attached to the stud members 44 of each wall panel 20 with fastening joints 84 It should be understood that the fasteners 84 may include screws or nails.

Let us now refer to FIG. 2C, which shows another embodiment of exterior wall panels 20 in a vertically adjacent configuration. The outer wall panels 20 differ from the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A with respect to the position of the evaporative membranes 62 and the weatherproof membranes 36 so that they do not cover the peripheral edges 52, 54 of the outer wall panels 20. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2C, the vapor barrier membrane 62 is applied and attached to the inner surface 48 of the wall formed by the stud members 44 of the wall frame 42 and extends beyond at least one of the peripheral edges 52 of the wall frame 42. As shown, the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the first wall panel 20a extends towards the second wall panel 20b below and is positioned above the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the second wall panel 20b when provided in an adjacent and interlocking configuration. . Thus, in the present embodiment, the vapor barrier membrane 62 extends beyond the lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20a. It should be understood that the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the second wall panel 20b may also extend past the peripheral edge to the first wall panel 20a to be aligned and attached thereto.

As mentioned above, the outer wall panel assembly 22 further comprises a rigid canopy 72a which is applied to the outer surface 50 of the wall and extends beyond one of the lower peripheral edges 52. Each wall panel 20 is coated on the outer surface of the wall 50 in the form of a membrane 36, weatherproofing that is attached thereto, wherein the rigid canopy 72a has a first portion extending between the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 and the weatherproofing membrane 36 on the top layer 20a of the outer wall panels 20, and a second portion extending downward beyond the lower peripheral edge 52 of the upper portion 20a of the outer wall panels 20. In the event that two adjacent panels 20a, 20b are engaged with each other, the second section of the rigid peak 72a of the upper portion 20a of the outer wall panels 20 can be inserted between the membrane 36 protecting against atmospheric influences, and tiles of the coating 76, that is, outside the membrane 36, which protects against of the bottom portion 20b of the outer wall panels 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion of the rigid canopy 72a may be inserted between the weatherproof membrane 36 and the outer cladding 74 of the lower portion 20b of the outer wall panels 20. Thus, when in engagement between the weatherproof membrane 36 and the tiles of the cover 76, or externally applied to the underside 20b of the exterior wall panels 20, a rigid cap 72a protects the connection between adjacent exterior wall panels 20 when provided in an adjacent and interlocking configuration. In the depicted embodiment of the invention, the bonding joint 68 is not installed on the evaporative membrane 62 or on the weatherproof membrane 36, but it is installed directly on the stud members 44, 46 of the framing of the wall 42 and extends along at least one of peripheral edges 52. In an adjacent and interlocking configuration of exterior wall panels 20, contact is made with at least one peripheral edge 52 of another exterior wall panel 20. It should be understood that, as in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2A and 2B, the bonding joint 68 may alternatively be mounted on the weatherproof membrane 36 or the vapor barrier 62 to provide contact with either the weather barrier 36 or the vapor barrier 62. adjacent to one of the outer wall panels.

Now with reference to FIG. 2D consider another embodiment of two exterior wall panels 20 in a vertically adjacent configuration. It should be understood that the components of the exterior wall panels 20 may take a variety of shapes suitable for mating with each other to join and seal the panels together. In this embodiment, the rigid thermal insulation panels 66 have beveled edges 86 in complementary shapes so that they can mate if two adjacent exterior wall panels 20 are in an adjacent configuration. In the depicted embodiment of the invention, each beveled edge 86 is covered with a weatherproof membrane 36. The free end of the beveled edges 86 extends downward from the outer surface 50 of the wall to allow water to drain which may have accumulated between

- 11 042162 external wall panels towards the outside of the building. In other words, the bevelled edges 86 slope downwardly towards the outside of the building so as to facilitate the drainage of water that may accumulate between the outer wall panels 20 towards the outside of the building. Each exterior wall panel 20 includes a horizontal stud member 44 having a bevelled surface 88 that facilitates mating with the corresponding stud member 44. elements, i.e. internal and external, having a bevelled surface 88. A weatherproof membrane 36 at least partially covers the peripheral edges 52. The outer wall panels 20 also include a connecting barrier element 90 superimposed on the rack elements 44, limiting the peripheral edges 52, and partially superimposed on the membrane 36, which protects against weathering, and the membrane 62, which protects against evaporation. This connecting barrier element 90 can facilitate the sealing of exterior wall panels by connecting the ends of the weatherproof membrane 36 and the vapor barrier 62 that only partially cover the peripheral edges 52. The fastening joint 68 is installed on the connecting barrier element 90 of the upper peripheral edge and is in contact with the connecting barrier element of the lower peripheral edge of the adjacent and interlocking outer wall panel 20. The connecting barrier element 90 may comprise a flexible membrane or a substantially rigid panel, such as metal sheets or foil, which can also be used as a rigid visor.

As shown in FIG. 2E, the spaced tiles of the deck 76 of the outer wall assembly 22 may be in a superimposed configuration and form an array of layers of tiles extending between the rigid thermal insulation panels 66 and the outer cladding 74. This stacked configuration of the array of spaced tiles cover 76 further increases the stability of mounting the outer cladding 74 to the outer surface 50 of the wall, through, in the depicted embodiment of the invention, rigid heat-insulating panels 66. The upper outer wall panel 20a also contains two spaced apart rigid canopies 72a, 72b, made with the possibility, together, at least partially, form a drainage barrier of the outer wall panel assembly 20. The top portions of the spaced apart rigid canopies 72a, 72b extend respectively—or overlap—the outer and inner alignment surfaces of the spaced floor tiles 76. In other words, ver The lower section of the inner rigid cap 72a extends between the surface of the layers of tiles facing the outer surface 50 of the wall and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66, while the upper section of the outer rigid cap 72b extends between the tiles of the coating 76 (i.e. the outer surface of the layers of tiles of the coating) and the outer lining 74.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2E, one of the floor tiles 76 running along the lower outer wall panel 20b has an upper edge offset from the upper edge of the other of the floor tiles 76 running along the lower outer wall panel 20b. In the illustrated embodiment, the top edge of the outer deck tile 76 extends over the top edge of the inner deck tile 76. Thus, a panel-mating recess 81 is formed between adjacent interior and exterior deck tiles 76 running along the lower exterior wall panel 20b. panel recess 81 is sized to receive a portion of one of the hard canopies (inner hard canopy 72a in a non-limiting embodiment of the invention). In the depicted embodiment, the weatherproof membrane 36 of the bottom exterior wall panel 20b extends between the interior deck tile 76 and the rigid thermal insulation board 66 and has a top edge extending slightly above the top edge of the exterior deck tile 76 (i.e., extending above the upper edge of the inner tile of the flooring 76).

Although, in the depicted embodiment, the bottom edges of the interior and exterior tiles 76 extending along the top exterior wall panel 20a are substantially aligned with each other, a single top exterior wall panel 20a can be provided having superimposed deck tiles 76c. lower edges offset from one another.

For example, the overlay tiles of the cover 76 of the top exterior wall panel 20a can be offset so as to form a panel mating protrusion (not shown) capable of being placed in the mating groove 81 of the panel if the top and bottom exterior wall panels 20a, 20b are formed into adjacent configuration.

It should be understood that the shape, configuration and arrangement of the spaced floor tiles 76 and the layers of floor tiles formed therefrom may differ from the illustrated embodiment.

Referring to Fig. 3A and B showing two exterior wall panels 20 from an exterior wall assembly 22 in a horizontally adjacent configuration. This configuration shows similarities with the embodiment described above with reference to FIG. 2A and B, that

- 12 042162 each of: the membrane 36, protecting against weathering, and the membrane 62, protecting against evaporation, at least partially superimposed on the peripheral edges 54, while the fastening connection 68 is installed on one of the membranes 36, 62 and is in contact with the other of membranes 36, 62 on adjacent and interlocking outer wall panel 20 to provide a continuous seal therebetween.

More specifically, in the depicted embodiment of the invention, the bonding joint 68 is installed on the weatherproof membrane 36, which overlaps the vapor barrier membrane 62 on the first exterior wall panel 20a and is in contact with the weatherproof membrane 36, on the second outer wall panel 20b if it is in an adjacent configuration as shown in FIG. 3B.

Also, as shown, carrier board 82 is overlaid on carrier board 64 and fasteners 84 are inserted through them to attach each of the wall panels 20 to the stud members 46.

In addition, the second outer wall panel 20b also includes a rigid canopy 72 having a first portion inserted between the outer cladding 74 and the weather protection membrane 36 and a second portion extending perpendicular to the first portion and outward to overlap the outer cladding 74 of the first outer wall panel 20a, if the first and second exterior wall panels 20a, 20b are in an adjacent configuration as shown in FIG. 3B.

Now, with reference to FIG. 4A, two exterior wall panels 20 are shown in an angled exterior configuration. The first exterior wall panel 20a comprises two rigid thermal insulation panels 66a, 66b formed in a perpendicular configuration along the edge of the exterior wall panel 20a relative to the vertical stud members 46. In this embodiment, the weatherproof membrane 36 covers both the rigid thermal insulation panels 66a, 66b, and the peripheral edge, or side edge, of the post members 46 running parallel to the wall surfaces 48, 50. The vapor barrier membrane 62 is also at least partially applied to and covers the peripheral edges. An anchor joint 68 is installed on one of the membranes 36, 62 and provides contact with the other one of the membranes 36, 62 from the adjacent and interlocking outer wall panel 20 to provide a continuous seal therebetween.

More specifically, in the depicted embodiment, the fastener 68 is installed on the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the first exterior wall panel 20a and is in contact with the vapor barrier membrane 62 of the second exterior wall panel 20b, if it is in an adjacent configuration.

The two tiles of the cover 76 define the rigid thermal insulation panels 66a, 66b on the outside, and the X-shaped rigid cap 72 is superimposed on the two tiles of the tiles 76. In particular, one arm of the X-shaped rigid cap 72 is inserted between the corresponding one of the tiles of the coating 76 and the outer facing 74, in At the same time, the other arm is inserted between another of the floor tiles 76 and a corresponding one of the rigid thermal insulation panels 66b. The two outer arms of the X-shaped hard canopy 72 protrude outward. In the depicted embodiment, the two outer arms of the X-shaped hard canopy 72 extend substantially perpendicular to each other, but other configurations can be provided to change the outer profile of the outer wall panel 22. The hard canopy 72 is designed as a cross to protect surfaces contact at the corner formed between the two tiles of the covering 76 and the ends of the two outer facings 74 in case the first and second outer wall panels 20a, 20b are in an adjacent and interlocking configuration. Sealing material 92 is added to the seam between the outer cladding 74 and the two outwardly protruding shoulders of the hard cap 72 of the first outer wall panel 20a. The outer wall panel assembly 22 comprises a cover tile 76 applied to the inner wall surface 48 of the first wall panel 20a, which can be used with a structural corner member 94 (see FIG. 4C) as a support for fastening through it to hold the first and second outer wall panels 20a, 20b together.

Referring to Fig. 4B and C showing two exterior wall panels 20 and an assembly exterior wall panel 22 in another exterior corner configuration. The wall panels 20 differ from the wall panels shown in FIG. 4A as having different sizes of rack members 46 and their configurations. The side peripheral edges of the 54 outer wall panels have a ladder profile. Exterior wall panel assembly 22 includes an X-shaped rigid canopy 72 that is placed at the junction of exterior claddings 74. FIG. 4C shows exterior wall panels 20 in an exterior corner configuration with structural corner piece 94 and structural connectors 84 holding wall panels 20 together.

Let us now refer to FIG. 5A and B, which show two exterior wall panels 20 and an exterior wall panel assembly 22 in an interior corner configuration with structural connectors 84 to secure the structural panels 64 to the stud members 46, thereby securing the wall panels together.

As embodiments of the invention described above, the membrane 62, protecting against

- 13 042162 pairs, and the membrane 36, which protects against weathering, also, at least partially, overlap and cover the peripheral edges. A bonding joint 68 is placed on one of the membranes 36, 62 and placed in contact with the other of the membranes 36, 62 on the adjacent and interlocking outer wall panel 20 to provide a continuous seal therebetween.

A rigid canopy 72, forming an acute angle, is provided at the outer junction of two adjacent and interlocked outer wall panels 20.

Referring to Fig. 6A, which shows an exterior wall panel 20 intended to be installed in a vertical adjacent configuration on a foundation wall 26 upon which the floor truss 28 rests. The foundation wall 26 is made of concrete and is covered on the outside with a membrane 36 that protects against atmospheric influences. As shown, two rigid thermal insulation panels 32, larger than the thermal insulation panels used in the exterior wall assembly 22, are applied to the foundation wall 26 and the weatherproof membrane 36 from the outside, as well as the ground cable 40, extending outward and along a part of the outer heat-insulating panel. The outer wall panel 20 includes a rigid cap 72b to cover the top edges of the thermal insulation panels 32 and to protect the joint between the wall panel 20 and the foundation wall 26. friend at the bottom of the outer wall panel 20.

The lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20 is covered with a combination of a weatherproof membrane 36 and an evaporative membrane 62, and these membranes have their own section superimposed along the lower peripheral edge 52. A bonding joint 68 is installed on the membrane 62, which protects against evaporation, and is in contact with the membrane installed on the upper edge of the foundation wall 26 when applied to it. It should be understood that in an alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown), the bonding connection 68 may be installed on the membrane 36, protecting from weathering.

As shown in FIG. 6B, this embodiment differs from that shown in FIG. 6A in that the rigid thermal insulation panels 32 are located on the inside of the foundation wall 26, and therefore the rigid cap 72b is sized to be applied only to the outside of the foundation wall 26.

In addition, in the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 6B, as in FIG. 6A, the lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20 is covered with a combination of a weatherproof membrane 36 and a vapor barrier 62, and these membranes have their own section superimposed along the lower peripheral edge 52. The bonding joint 68 is installed on the evaporative membrane 62 but in contact with the upper edge of the floor truss 28, in case the outer wall panel 20 is laid over the upper edge of the foundation wall 26.

Let us now refer to FIG. 6C, which shows an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 6B, but showing rigid thermal panels 32 covering the height of foundation wall 26, and floor truss 28 installed between exterior wall panel 20 and stud member 30 adjacent foundation wall 26.

As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6B, the lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20 is covered with a combination of a weatherproof membrane 36 and a vapor barrier 62 that have their own section superimposed along the lower peripheral edge 52. A bonding joint 68 is installed on the membrane. 62, which protects against evaporation, and is in contact with the upper edge of the floor truss 28 in case the outer wall panel 20 is superimposed on the upper edge of the foundation wall 26.

Fig. 6D shows an embodiment of the invention with respect to an exterior wall panel 20 like that shown in FIG. 6C, for installation on a foundation wall 26, on which, from the outside, a vapor barrier membrane 62 and a rigid thermal insulation panel 32 are applied. provides a seal/protection between the wall panel 20 and the rigid thermal insulation panel 32.

As in the embodiments of the invention depicted in FIG. 6A, B and C, the lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20 is covered with a combination of a weatherproof membrane 36 and a vapor barrier 62, and these membranes have their own section superimposed along the lower peripheral edge 52. However, the bonding connection 68 is not used. However, it should be understood that in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel may be provided with a bonding joint installed on one of the vapor barrier membrane 62 and the weather barrier membrane 36 in order to be in contact with the top the edge of the post element 30 and/or the upper edge of the foundation wall 26.

In addition, in the embodiments of the invention depicted in FIGS. 6A, B, C and D combination

- 14 042162 two weatherproof membranes 36 covers the bottom of the outer wall surface 50 of the exterior wall panel 20 on top of the hard canopy 72b to be sandwiched between the two weatherproof membranes 36. The first of the weatherproof membrane combinations 36 has a bottom edge substantially aligned with the bottom edge of the cover tile 76, while the second of the weatherproof membrane combinations 36 has a top edge located between the thermal insulation panel 32 and tile covering 76 of the outer wall panel 20. The lower peripheral edge 52 of the outer wall panel 20 is covered with a second combination of combinations of a weatherproof membrane 36 and an evaporative membrane 62, and these membranes have their own section superimposed on each other along lower peripheral edge 52.

Fig. 7A shows an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 2A, with the vapor barrier 62 covering the upper and lower peripheral edges 52a, 52b of the wall frame 42 and the weather barrier 36 partially covering the upper peripheral edge 52a. The first rigid canopy 72a has a first portion superimposed and attached to the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 of the upper exterior wall panel 20a (i.e., extending between the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 and the weatherproof membrane 36 of the upper exterior wall panel 20a), and the second a portion extending downward beyond the lower peripheral edge of the upper outer wall panel 20a. A second portion is located outside the weatherproof membrane 36 bottom 20b of the exterior wall panels 20 to seal the two wall panels 20 at their junction and protect the connection between them. A second rigid cap 72b is provided between the outer cladding 74 and the deck tile 76 with a portion protruding outwards and superimposed on the lower edge of the outer cladding 74. panel 20b and is in contact with the vapor barrier membrane 62 on the upper outer wall panel 20a. Fig. 7A also shows the floor truss 28 attached to the wall panel assembly 22 shown in FIG. 7B by abutting the stud members 30 attached to the lower outer wall panel 20b, inside it.

Referring to Fig. 7C, which depicts an alternate embodiment of the invention with respect to the outer wall 20 assembly, wherein the rigid thermal insulation panels 66 have top and bottom bevelled edges 86 to engage when they are in an adjacent configuration. In this embodiment, the floor truss 28 is installed in the area extending between the outer wall panels 20 in an adjacent and interlocking configuration.

Fig. 7D and E show an alternative embodiment of the invention with respect to the execution of the outer wall panels 20 of FIG. 7C, in which, instead of the beveled edges of the rigid thermal insulation panels 66, the upper outer wall panel 20a is provided with a rigid canopy 72a having a first portion superimposed and attached to the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 of the upper outer wall panel 20a, and a second portion extending down past the lower peripheral the edge of the upper outer wall panel 20a. A second portion is located outside the weatherproof membrane 36 of the bottom portion 20b of the exterior wall panels 20 to seal the two wall panels 20 as they are joined and protect the connection between them. In FIG. 7E, the floor truss 28 is attached to the wall panel assembly 22 by a structural connector 84. An exterior wall assembly 22 comprising exterior wall panels 20 having bevelled thermal insulation panels 66 as shown in FIG. 7C and a rigid canopy 72a applied and attached to a rigid thermal insulation panel 66 as shown in FIG. 7D and E may also be created as shown, for example, in FIG. 2F.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2F, the top edges of the tiles of the cover 76, the outer cladding 74, and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 of the lower outer wall panel 20b are substantially aligned with each other to assist in the stability of the installation of the outer cladding 74 on the outer surface 50 of the wall, in the embodiment shown, by means of the rigid thermal insulations. panels 66 and deck tiles 76. Similarly, in the embodiment shown, the bottom edges of deck tiles 76, facing 74, and the rigid thermal insulation panel 66 of upper exterior wall panel 20a are substantially aligned with each other.

Fig. 7F shows another embodiment of the invention with respect to the outer panel 20 assembly, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7D and E, but in which the rigid thermal panel 66 has top beveled edges 96. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom edge of the rigid thermal panel 66 of the top wall panel 20a is straight. The beveled edge 96 provides a gap for the introduction of the second portion of the hard peak 72a.

Referring to Fig. 8, which shows an embodiment of the invention with respect to the manufacture of an outer wall panel 20 adapted to be installed adjacent to the roof structure 24. The upper peripheral edge 52 of the wall frame 42 is covered with a membrane combination 36 that protects

- 15 042162 weatherproof, and membrane 62, protecting against evaporation, with their areas superimposed on each other, in order to completely cover the upper peripheral edge 52. The hard cap 72 serves as a seal for the connection between the outer lining 74 and the membrane 36 roof structure 24. Adhesive tape or any other suitable mechanical fastener (not shown) can be used to secure the edges of the weatherproof membrane 36 and evaporative membrane 62 together and to the top peripheral edge 52 of the frame 42 of the wall.

Fig. 9A and B depict alternative embodiments of the invention with respect to the manufacture of exterior wall panels that are installed adjacent to the top and bottom edges of a window guard and the sides of a window or door guard, respectively. As in the embodiments described above, the peripheral edges 52, 54 of the outer wall panels 20 are covered with a combination of a weatherproof membrane 36 and an evaporative membrane 62, and these membranes have their own section superimposed along the respective peripheral edges 52, 54. However, no bonding connection 68 is used. However, it should be understood that in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the outer wall panel may be provided with a bonding joint installed on one of the vapor barrier membrane 62 and the weather barrier membrane 36 to be in contact with the window or door frame. elements.

In the depicted embodiment of the invention, for the lower peripheral edge 52 of the upper outer wall panel, the vapor barrier membrane 62 extends along the lower peripheral edge 52 and has an end portion extending upwardly and covering the lower portion of the outer wall 50. fumes, superimposed on a rigid heat-insulating panel 66 with a rigid canopy 72b, and a membrane 36 that protects against weathering is superimposed on its outside.

In the illustrated embodiment, additional sealing membranes 98 are used between the weatherproof membrane 36 and the window or door guard frame.

Fig. 10A and B depict embodiments of the invention with respect to exterior wall panels 20, such as those described above, for engaging and fastening together to form a wall assembly 22 onto which a structural support 100 may be attached. This support may, for example, provide a means of attachment to a metal truss. 102 floors or concrete slab 104 floors.

And finally, Fig. 11A and B schematically depict a residential building 106 having an assembled exterior wall panel 22 comprising a plurality of exterior wall panels 20 configured in a horizontally adjacent configuration as in FIG. 11A and in a vertically adjacent configuration as in FIG. 11B.

It should be understood that some embodiments of the invention with respect to exterior wall panels 22 and wall panels 20 assemblies result from the assembly of exterior wall panels 22 as described above. Combinations of features of various embodiments of exterior wall panels 22 and wall panels 20 assemblies may be provided.

Several alternative embodiments of the invention and examples have been described and illustrated in this document. The embodiments of the invention described above are for example only. A specialist with an average level of competence in the art should understand the features of individual embodiments of the invention and the possible combinations and variations of the components, embodiments and possible combinations and variations of the components. A specialist with an average level of competence in the art should be clear that any of the embodiments of the invention may be provided in any combination with other embodiments of the invention disclosed in this document. It should be understood that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without deviating from its essential characteristics. The present examples and embodiments of the invention, therefore, should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention should not be limited to the details described here. Accordingly, while specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications are possible. Therefore, the scope of the invention is to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (19)

CLAIM 1. Exterior wall panel containing a wall frame containing an inner side and an opposite outer side, the inner side having an inner wall surface, and the outer side having an outer wall surface spaced from the inner wall surface, while the wall frame contains more than one horizontal rack elements and more than one vertical rack elements, forming together, at least partially, the inner wall surface and the outer wall surface of the specified wall frame, while the specified wall frame with - 16 042162 holds the first pair of spaced apart peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends passing between the first pair of spaced peripheral ends, the first and second pairs of spaced peripheral ends passing between the inner and outer wall surfaces of the specified wall frame and have a profile with a shape and dimensions, capable of being bonded to the peripheral end profile of adjacent similar exterior wall panels in an adjacent and sealed configuration to co-form an exterior wall assembly; a vapor barrier membrane applied to the inner wall surface; a weatherproof membrane applied to the outer wall surface; wherein each of the two ends of the first pair of peripheral edges spaced apart from each other and each of the second pair of spaced peripheral edges of said wall frame are covered with a vapor-protective membrane or a weather-protective membrane, and each of said ends is attached the membrane covering it; a bonding joint extending longitudinally along each of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends and outwardly of at least one of the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane, wherein the bonding joint is configured to be compressed to provide a seal between said outer wall panel and said adjacent similar outer wall panels made together in an adjacent and sealed configuration, wherein the peripheral ends of said outer wall panel are bonded to the peripheral ends of adjacent similar outer wall panels; an outer cladding extending outside the weatherproof membrane along the outer wall surface. 2. Exterior wall panel according to claim 1, characterized in that the vapor barrier membrane and the weather barrier membrane overlap at least along a portion of at least one of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends . 3. External wall panel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fastening connection is installed on at least one of: a membrane that protects against evaporation, and a membrane that protects against atmospheric influences, and the fastening connection is made with the possibility of contact at least with one of: a vapor barrier membrane and a weather barrier membrane, one of the adjacent similar exterior wall panels, if configured together in an adjacent and sealed configuration. 4. External wall panel according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fastening joint contains a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape. 5. The outer wall panel according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a rigid visor containing a first section superimposed on the outer wall surface, and a second section extending behind at least one of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends. ends. 6. Exterior wall panel according to claim 5, characterized in that the first section of the hard canopy is superimposed and attached to one of: a membrane that protects against weathering, and a membrane that protects against evaporation, and the second section of the hard canopy is superimposed and attached to one of : a weatherproof membrane and an evaporative membrane of one of the adjacent similar exterior wall panels when they are made together in an adjacent and sealed configuration. 7. Exterior wall panel according to any one of claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the first section of the rigid canopy is inserted between the wall frame and the weatherproof membrane. 8. Exterior wall panel according to claim 6, characterized in that the second section is superimposed on the outside of the weatherproof membrane of one of the adjacent similar exterior wall panels if it is made together in an adjacent and sealed configuration. 9. Exterior wall panel according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a rigid heat insulating panel superimposed on the specified wall frame from the outside, thereby the membrane that protects against weathering is superimposed on the outside of the rigid heat insulating panel; and more than one cladding tiles extending between the weatherproofing membrane and the outer cladding; wherein the outer cladding extends from the outside over a rigid heat-insulating panel and a weatherproof membrane. 10. Exterior wall panel according to claim 9, characterized in that said more than one spaced tiles of the coating are made in the form of a superimposed configuration and form more than one layer of tiles - 17 042162 coatings between the weather protection membrane and the outer cladding. 11. Exterior wall panel according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a rigid visor containing a first section superimposed and attached to a rigid insulating panel and at least partially covered on the outside with a membrane that protects against atmospheric influences; and a second portion extending through at least one of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends, and externally applied to the weatherproof membrane of one of adjacent similar exterior wall panels, if configured together in adjacent and sealed configuration. 12. Exterior wall panel according to claim 11, characterized in that the first section of the rigid canopy is located at least partially between the weatherproof membrane and the vapor barrier membrane. 13. Exterior wall panel according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the first section of the rigid canopy extends between the rigid thermal insulation panel and the weatherproof membrane. 14. Exterior wall panel according to any one of claims 11-13, further comprising a load-bearing element abutting said wall frame, attached to it from the inside and passing at least partially between the vapor barrier membrane and said wall frame. 15. External wall panel according to claim 14, characterized in that said wall frame forms an internal space, and the external wall panel further comprises a heat-insulating layer passing inside the internal space and between the supporting element and the rigid heat-insulating panel. 16. Exterior wall panel according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the first pair of spaced peripheral ends contains a top end and a bottom end, and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends contains side ends. 17. The outer wall panel according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that the rigid heat-insulating panel contains a beveled end extending downward from the outer wall surface, and the second section of the hard peak is located above the beveled end of one of the adjacent similar outer wall panels in the case of if it is configured together in an adjacent and pressurized configuration. 18. Exterior wall panel assembly, comprising more than one exterior wall panel according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said more than one exterior wall panel is configured in an adjacent and sealed configuration, wherein the adjacent peripheral ends of the adjacent panels are from more than one of the exterior wall panels. panels rest against each other and are fastened to each other. 19. A method of forming an outer wall panel assembly from the first and second outer wall panels according to any one of claims 1 to 17, including installing the second outer wall panel in an adjacent and sealed configuration with respect to the first outer wall panel, wherein one of the first pair spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends of the first outer wall panel is fastened to one of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends of the second outer wall panel, while said one of the first pair of spaced peripheral ends and the second pair of spaced peripheral ends from the second outer wall panel is in contact with the bonding joint.