WO2017182800A1

WO2017182800A1 - An expandable insulation device

Info

Publication number: WO2017182800A1
Application number: PCT/GB2017/051088
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Stuart Giles HORNER; Philip Neil RAMSHAW
Original assignee: Troutbeck (Holdings) Ltd; Cinetic Carbon Compounds Limited
Priority date: 2016-04-21
Filing date: 2017-04-19
Publication date: 2017-10-26

Abstract

An expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form.

Description

An Expandable Insulation Device

The present invention relates to an expandable insulation device and in particular to an expandable insulation device for insulating buildings, such as, for example, an expandable insulation device for insulating buildings comprising one or more wall(s) having cavities or hollow spaces therein.

It is known to include an insulating material in the walls of a building in order to improve the thermal insulation thereof. For example, the cavities or hollow spaces in stud walls or cavity walls may be filled or part filled with fibreglass or foam sheets, such as polyisocyan urate, polyurethane or phenolic foam sheets. However, there are problems with known insulation systems.

It is an object of aspects of the present invention to provide one or more solutions to one of the above mentioned or other problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form.

The expandable insulation device of the present invention may be for insulating any suitable building. For example, the expandable insulation device may be for insulating a domestic building, such as a house or apartment, or a commercial building, such as an office block, shop or hotel.

The building may be constructed in any suitable form. In certain embodiments, the building may comprise one or more wall(s) having a cavity or hollow space therein. Suitable examples of walls having a cavity or hollow space therein include, but are not limited to, stud walls, such as, for example, timber framed walls or steel framed walls, or cavity walls.

The expandable insulation material of the present invention comprises an envelope. The envelope comprises a gas impermeable material. By "gas impermeable" is meant that substantially no gas, such as air, is able to pass through the material. In certain embodiments, the envelope may comprise a plastic material. Suitable examples of plastics include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: polyethylene; polypropylene; polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polyethylene terephthalate (PET); or combinations thereof. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the materials from which the envelope may be formed includes materials from which components of the envelope, such as, for example, the first and/or second surfaces, may be formed.

Advantageously, the use of a gas impermeable material ensures that the foam, such as open- celled foam, remains substantially compressed when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure. For example, use of a gas impermeable material ensures that substantially no gas, such as air, may pass into the envelope such that, when the expandable insulation device is subjected to a reduced pressure, the expandable insulation device remains under reduced pressure and the foam, such as open-celled foam, remains substantially compressed.

In certain embodiments, the envelope may comprise a single plastic material or may comprise two or more plastic materials. It will be appreciated that each of the components from which the envelope is formed, such as, for example, the first and second surfaces, may be formed from the same or different gas impermeable material(s), such as plastic material(s).

In certain embodiments, the envelope may be formed from a gas impermeable material, such as a plastic, which comprises an antioxidant. Suitable examples of antioxidants include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: hydrogen-donating antioxidants, such as hindered phenols and secondary aromatic amines; benzofuranones; phosphites; thioethers; carbon antioxidants; proprietary antioxidants; and combinations thereof. Advantageously, the use of plastic comprising an antioxidant may delay the degradation of the envelope such that it has improved longevity.

In certain embodiments, the envelope may be formed from a gas impermeable material, such as a plastic, which is substantially resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar. Resistance to building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may be provided inherently by the gas impermeable material from which the envelope is formed, may be provided in the form of an additional cover layer or may be provided by a combination thereof. Advantageously, the use of a gas impermeable material, such as a plastic, which is substantially resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may delay the degradation of the envelope such that it has improved longevity. Advantageously, the use of a gas impermeable material, such as a plastic, which is substantially resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may make the expandable insulation material simpler to install because, for example, a builder may not need to ensure that said building materials do not come into contact with the expandable insulation device, in particular, with the envelope of the expandable insulation device.

The envelope may be manufactured by any suitable method. In certain embodiments, the envelope may be extruded or may by co-extruded with multiple layers of the same or different plastic material(s). For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the method by which the envelope may be manufactured includes methods by which components of the envelope, such as, for example, the first and/or second surfaces, may be manufactured.

The envelope has a first surface. The first surface may be any suitable shape. For example, the first surface may be substantially square in shape or may be substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the first surface may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The first surface may be any suitable size. The first surface may be of any suitable width and length. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the first surface may be of a size suitable to fit within a cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device may be inserted. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a width of about 1 ,200mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a length of about 2,400mm, suitably about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a width x length of about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the first surface may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the size of the first surface is with respect to the size of the first surface when the expandable insulation device is subjected to atmospheric pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with reference to the first surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the first surface of the envelope which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with reference to the first surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the first surface of the envelope which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the first surface may be equal.

The envelope has a second surface. The second surface may be any suitable shape. For example, the second surface may be substantially square in shape or may be substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the second surface may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The second surface may be any suitable size. The second surface may be of any suitable width and length. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the second surface may be of a size suitable to fit within a gap or hollow space of the wall into which it may be inserted. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a width of about 1 ,200mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a length of about 2,400mm, suitably about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a width x length of about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the second surface may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the size of the second surface is with respect to the size of the second surface when the expandable insulation device is subjected to atmospheric pressure.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with reference to the second surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the second surface of the envelope which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with reference to the second surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the second surface of the envelope which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the second surface may be equal.

Suitably, the first surface and the second surface of the envelope may have substantially the same shape. Suitably, the first surface and the second surface of the envelope may be substantially the same size. For example, the first surface and the second surface may have substantially the same width and length. The first and second surfaces of the envelope are connected around their peripheries. Suitably, the first and second surfaces of the envelope may be connected around their peripheries so as to be substantially airtight. By "airtight", and like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, is meant that the first and second surfaces of the envelope are connected such that gases, such as air, are substantially unable to pass into the envelope. Advantageously, the first and second surfaces of the envelope being connected around their peripheries so as to be substantially airtight ensures that foam, such as open-celled foam, remains substantially compressed when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure. For example, the first and second surfaces of the envelope being connected around their peripheries so as to be substantially airtight allows that substantially no gas, such as air, may pass into the envelope such that, when the expandable insulation device is subjected to a reduced pressure, the expandable insulation device remains under reduced pressure and the foam, such as open-celled foam, remains substantially compressed.

In certain embodiments, the first and second surfaces may be directly connected together around their peripheries or may be connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion.

The first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, may be connected by any suitable method. Suitable examples of methods to connect the first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: use of an adhesive; welding, such as welding using heat or solvents; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the first and second surfaces, when directly connected around their peripheries, may be heat sealed. In an alternative method, the first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, may be integrally formed.

Suitably, the first and second surfaces may be connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion. The connecting portion may be of any suitable form. The connecting portion may have any suitable length. In certain embodiments, the connecting portion may have a length which is substantially the same as the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope or may have a length which is less than the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope. Suitably, the connecting portion may have a length which is substantially the same as the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with respect to the connecting portion, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the connecting portion which, when the connecting portion is connected to the first and/or second surfaces, runs around, and may be connected to, the periphery of said first and/or second surfaces.

The connecting portion may have any suitable width. In certain embodiments, the connecting portion may have a width from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to 200mm, such as from 90mm to 150mm, or even from 90mm to 120mm. Suitably, the connecting portion may have a width of about 100mm.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with respect to the connecting portion, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the connecting portion which, when the connecting portion is connected to the first and second surfaces, is equivalent to the distance between said first and second surfaces.

The connecting portion, when present, may be formed from any suitable gas impermeable material. Suitable gas impermeable materials are as described above. It will be appreciated that the connecting portion, when present, may be formed from the same gas impermeable material as the first surface and/or the second surface of the envelope or may be formed from a different gas impermeable material to the first surface and/or the second surface of the envelope.

The first and second surfaces, when connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion, may be connected by any suitable method. Suitably, each of the first and second surfaces may be attached to the connecting portion. Suitable examples of methods to connect the first and second surfaces to the connecting portion include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: use of an adhesive; welding, such as welding using heat or solvents; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the first and second surfaces, when connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion, may be heat sealed. In an alternative method, the first and second surfaces and the connecting portion may be integrally formed.

The expandable insulation device of the present invention comprises a foam. Suitably, the foam is an open-celled foam. By "open-celled foam", and like terms as used herein, is meant a foam material in which substantially all of the gaps or pockets located therein are connected to one another. It will be appreciated that an open-celled foam may comprise a portion of discrete gaps or pockets but that the majority of said gaps or air pockets are connected to one another. The foam, such as open-celled foam, is located between the first and second surfaces of the envelope. It will be appreciated, therefore, that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is located within the envelope of the expandable insulation device.

The foam may comprise any suitable foam. In certain embodiments, the foam may comprise an open-celled foam. Suitable examples include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: thermoplastic foams such as, for example, polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foam or combinations thereof. Suitably, the foam may comprise polyethylene foam. Suitably, the foam may comprise open-celled polyethylene foam.

In certain embodiments, the open-celled foam may comprise a reticulated foam. In certain embodiments, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may be substantially hydrophobic. Advantageously, the use of a hydrophobic foam means that any moisture present in the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device is inserted is less likely to move across the foam and cause damp on, for example, an internal wall.

The expandable insulation device of the present invention may comprise any suitable amount of foam, such as open-celled foam. In certain embodiments, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope or may fill only a portion of the envelope. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the amount of foam, such as open-celled foam, present is with regard to the amount present when the expandable insulation device is subjected to atmospheric pressure. For example, when the device is under atmospheric pressure, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope or may fill only a portion of the envelope. Suitably, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope such that it exerts a positive pressure thereon at atmospheric pressure.

Suitably, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope of the expandable insulation device such that it exerts a positive pressure thereon at atmospheric pressure, wherein the foam, such as open-celled foam, is operable to substantially hold the shape of the envelope of the expandable insulation device at atmospheric pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, by the term "hold the shape of the envelope... under atmospheric pressure", and like terms as used herein, is meant that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is able to substantially hold the envelope in its expanded or open form. Advantageously, the use of a foam, such as open-celled foam, which substantially fills the envelope such that it exerts a positive pressure thereon at atmospheric pressure means that the foam, such as open-celled foam, may hold the envelope in place, such as in shape, when the expandable insulation device is under atmospheric pressure. For example, the use of a foam, such as an open-celled foam, which substantially fills the envelope of the expandable insulation device such that it exerts a positive pressure thereon at atmospheric pressure means that the envelope is able to hold its shape and not, for example, to collapse, when the expandable insulation device is under atmospheric pressure.

The expandable insulation device of the present invention is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby substantially compressed. The term "reduced pressure" or like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to any pressure which is lower than atmospheric pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, atmospheric pressure is 1 atm (=101 ,325 Pa). It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when the expandable insulation device of the present invention is subjected to a reduced pressure, a portion of the gas, such as air, or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device has been removed.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may be operable to be subjected to a full or a partial vacuum. Suitably, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may be operable to be subjected to a full vacuum. The expandable insulation device of the present invention may be operable to be subjected to a reduced pressure by any suitable method. For example, the expandable insulation device may be operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device or the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device may be forced out of the envelope.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may be operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device. For example, the expandable insulation device may be operable to be connected to a vacuum pump. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to a vacuum pump. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may comprise one or more valve(s), suitably one valve. The valve, when present, may be located on any suitable location of the expandable insulation device. In certain embodiments, the valve, when present, may be located on the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the valve, when present, may be located on one or more of the first surface of the envelope, on the second surface of the envelope, on the connecting portion of the envelope, when present.

In certain embodiments, the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device may be forced out of the envelope. The gas, such as air, may be forced out of the envelope by any suitable means. For example, the gas, such as air, may be forced out of the envelope by the application of pressure such as, for example, in the form of a weight. For example, the expandable insulation device may comprise a sealable aperture that is operable to allow gas, such as air, to escape from the envelope, for example when pressure is applied to the envelope of the expandable insulation device, and subsequently be sealed to form a substantially airtight envelope.

Advantageously, the application of pressure, such as, for example, in the form of a weight, to force gas, such as air, out of the envelope means that the expandable insulation device is substantially planar.

Suitably, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to substantially hold the shape of the envelope of the expandable insulation device when the expandable insulation device is under reduced pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, by the term "hold the shape of the envelope... under reduced pressure", and like terms as used herein, is meant that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is able to substantially hold the envelope in its compressed, flat or closed form. Further advantageously, the use of foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to hold the envelope of the expandable insulation device in place, such as in shape, when the expandable insulation device is under reduced pressure. For example, the use of a foam, such as an open-celled foam, means that the envelope of the expandable insulation device is able to hold its shape, such as a substantially planar shape, when the expandable insulation device is under reduced pressure.

For the avoidance of doubt, reference to removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device includes removal of some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the gaps or pockets within the foam, such as open-celled foam, located therein.

Advantageously, the use of a foam, in particular an open-celled foam, is such that subjecting the expandable insulation device to reduced pressure results in some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the gaps or pockets within the foam, such as open-celled foam, being removed such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, becomes substantially compressed. Advantageously, the fact that the expandable insulation device of the present invention is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is substantially compressed means that the expandable insulation device may have a reduced volume. This means that it is easier to, for example, store and transport. For example, it is an advantage that the expandable insulation device may be provided to a user under reduced pressure because it has a reduced volume compared to, for example, the expandable insulation device subjected to increased pressure or the insulation materials of the prior art and is, therefore, easier to store and to handle.

The first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form. By "substantially planar", and like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, is meant that the substantially planar element is substantially flat or level in a two-dimensional plane. For example, the substantially planar element, in use, may have a substantially flat or level plane in the horizontal direction such that the substantially planar element is substantially parallel, i.e. co-planar, to the wall of the building into which it is inserted. The term "increased pressure" or like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to any pressure which is equal to or higher than atmospheric pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, atmospheric pressure is 1 atm (=101 ,325 Pa).

Suitably, the expandable insulation device may be subjected to atmospheric pressure. Advantageously, when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure, in particular to atmospheric pressure, the expandable insulation device has improved thermal insulation properties. This is because there is a static body of air or other gases, such as carbon dioxide, krypton, argon or combinations thereof, within the expandable insulation device.

The substantially planar element may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: plastic; wood; metal; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the substantially planar element is formed from plastic. Suitable examples of plastics include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: polyethylene; polypropylene; polyethylene terephthalate; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be formed from polyethylene.

In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be formed from a semi-rigid or rigid material. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be formed from a semi-rigid or a rigid plastic. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be formed from a semi-rigid plastic. It will be appreciated that the substantially planar element should be formed from a material, such as plastic, which is rigid enough to maintain the first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure or is subjected to increased pressure.

The substantially planar element may have any suitable shape. For example, the substantially planar element may be substantially square in shape or may be substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The substantially planar element may be any suitable size. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be substantially the same size as the first surface of the envelope, may be smaller than the first surface of the envelope or may be larger than the first surface of the envelope. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be smaller than the first surface of the envelope. For example, the width of the substantially planar element may be longer than the width of the first surface of the envelope, may be shorter than the width of the first surface of the envelope or may be substantially the same size as the width of the first surface of the envelope. For example, the length of the substantially planar element may be longer than the length of the first surface of the envelope, may be shorter than the length of the first surface of the envelope or may be substantially the same size as the length of the first surface of the envelope.

In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may have a width of about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, suitably about 600mm, such as about 400mm or even about 350mm. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may have a length of about 2,200mm, suitably about 1 ,800mm, suitably about 1 ,400mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 1 ,100mm. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may have a width x length of about 1 ,000mm x 2,200mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,800mm, suitably about 600mm x 1 ,400mm, such as about 400mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 30mm x 1 ,100mm. Suitably, the substantially planar element may have a width x length of about 350mm x 1 ,100mm.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with reference to the substantially planar element, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the substantially planar element which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with reference to the substantially planar element, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the substantially planar element which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the substantially planar element may be equal.

Suitably, the size of the substantially planar element may be substantially the same when the expandable insulation device is subjected to a reduced or an increased pressure. However, it will be appreciated that a change in size of the substantially planar element will be tolerated on the proviso that the first surface maintains a substantially planar configuration.

The substantially planar element may have any suitable form. Suitable forms include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a solid sheet; a frame; or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, when in the form of a frame, the frame may be in the from of a grid, such as, for example, a grid formed of one or more substantially parallel struts, a hexagonal grid, a cartesian grid, a rectangular grid, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be a solid sheet or a frame in the form grid formed of one or more substantially parallel struts. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be a frame in the form of grid formed of one or more substantially parallel struts. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be a sheet.

The first surface may comprise one or more substantially planar elements). Suitably, the first surface may comprise one substantially planar element. The substantially planar element may be made by any suitable method. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be injection moulded, may be extruded or may be co-extruded with one or more of the same or different materials, such as plastic. Suitably, when in the form of a sheet, the substantially planar element may be extruded or may be co-extruded with one or more of the same materials, such as plastic.

The substantially planar element may be attached to the first surface of the envelope by any suitable method. For example, the substantially planar element may be attached to the first surface of the envelope by an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may be attached on top of the first surface of the envelope or may be attached within, i.e. be substantially surrounded by, the first surface of the envelope. Suitably, the substantially planar element may be attached on top of the first surface of the envelope. In an alternative embodiment, the substantially planar element may be integrally formed with the first surface of the envelope. Advantageously, in use, the substantially planar element enables the expandable insulation device to remain substantially parallel to, i.e. co-planar with, a wall of a building such that a tight fit against the wall is maintained. This increases the thermal insulation properties of the expandable insulation device because there is reduced gas exchange. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that trapped gas, such as air, has increased thermal insulation properties because it is not susceptible to gas exchange. For example, when the expandable insulation device is substantially parallel to, i.e. co-planar or in conformity with, a wall of a building there is a reduced amount of, or substantially no, gas, such as air, between the wall and the expandable insulation device such that substantially all of the gas, such as air, adjacent to the wall is trapped or static. Advantageously, in use, the substantially planar element enables the expandable insulation device to be in conformity with the wall such that there is not a layer of gas, such as air, between the wall and the expandable insulation device. The expandable insulation device advantageously provides a static body of gas, such as air, and significantly reduces the amount of exchangeable gas, such as air, present within the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which it is inserted.

The expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be of any suitable depth. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be of a depth that is substantially equivalent to the depth of the cavity or hollow space into which the expandable insulation material may be inserted or may of a depth that is slightly larger than the cavity or hollow space into which the expandable insulation material may be inserted. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may have a depth from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to 200mm, such as from 90mm to 150mm, or even from 90mm to 120mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may have a depth of about 100mm.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 50mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 50mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 50mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 50mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 50mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 50mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 90mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 90mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 90mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 90mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 90mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 90mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 75mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 75mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 75mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 75mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 75mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 75mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 100mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 100mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 100mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 100mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 100mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 120mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 120mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 120mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 120mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 120mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 120mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 150mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 150mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 150mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 150mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 150mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 150mm. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be about 1 ,200mm x 2,400mm x 200mm, suitably about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 200mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 200mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 200mm. Suitably, the expandable insulation device, when subjected to increased pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby in an expanded form, may be 450mm x 900mm x 200mm. Advantageously, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may expand to substantially the same depth as the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which it is inserted and may, thus, exert a positive force on said walls. Thus, it is an advantage of the present invention that it is not necessary to fix the expandable insulation device to the wall of a building. Accordingly, the expandable insulation device according to the present invention is simpler to use and, in particular, simpler to install than known insulation devices because additional fixing means and fixing steps are not required. This reduces, for example, the time and cost for installation. However, in certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may optionally comprise further fixing means operable to attach the expandable insulation device to one or more wall(s) of a building into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted. The further fixing means, when present, may comprise any suitable means operable to attach the expandable insulation device to one or more wall(s) of a building into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted. For example, the further fixing means, when present, may comprise clips, clamps, pins, ties and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the wall into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted may optionally comprise complementary fixing means. For the avoidance of doubt, by the term "complementary fixing means" and like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to members that are operable to receive and/or be received in and/or on the further fixing means of the expandable insulation device, when present. For example, the complementary fixing means may comprise anchor points attachable in and/or on an inner and/or outer wall of a building into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted into and/or onto which fixing means of the expandable insulation device, when present, may be attached. The further fixing means, when present, may be operable to permanently or releasably attach the expandable insulation device to one or more wall(s) of a building into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted.

Suitably, when the expandable insulation device is to be inserted into a cavity wall, the expandable insulation device does not comprise further fixing means. Advantageously, when the expandable insulation device is to be inserted into a cavity wall, the expandable insulation device may be inserted between the inner and outer skin of the cavity wall once the inner and outer skin of the cavity wall have both been constructed such that it is substantially held therein. This means that the expandable insulation device typically does not require further fixing means.

Suitably, when the expandable insulation device is to be inserted into a steel-framed wall, the expandable insulation device may comprise further fixing means operable to attach the expandable insulation device to one or more of the steel-framed wall(s) into which the expandable insulation device is to be inserted. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that, when the expandable insulation device is to be inserted into a steel-framed wall the expandable insulation device may typically be inserted once only one of the inner or outer walls has been constructed (i.e. before the other of the inner or outer wall has been constructed). This means that the expandable insulation device typically requires further fixing means.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may further comprise a means for subjecting the expandable insulation device to an increased pressure. Suitably, the means for subjecting the expandable insulation device to an increased pressure comprises a method for introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device. For example, the expandable insulation device may comprise a gas canister or may be operable to be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may be operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may comprise one or more valve(s), suitably one valve. The valve, when present, may be located on any suitable location of the expandable insulation device. In certain embodiments, the valve, when present, may be located on the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the valve, when present, may be located on one or more of the first surface of the envelope, on the second surface of the envelope, on the connecting portion of the envelope, when present. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the valve operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump may be the same or different to the valve operable be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device, such as a vacuum pump.

Suitably, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may comprise a valve operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope and also operable be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope.

For the avoidance of doubt, reference to introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device includes introducing a gas into the gaps or pockets within the foam, such as open-celled foam, located therein. The gas may comprise any suitable gas. For example, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide, krypton, argon or combinations thereof. Suitably, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the gas may comprise air. For example, the gas may comprise air when the expandable insulation device is used in a domestic environment. Domestic environments include, for example, houses and flats (i.e. in which people live). Advantageously, the use of air as the gas in a domestic environment means that fittings such as, for example, screws and/or nails, and/or service fixtures such as, for example, electrical wires and/or drainage pipes can be inserted into and/or through the walls thereof without the risk of other gases, such as, for example, carbon dioxide, being released. For example, the use of air as the gas in a domestic environment means that fittings such as, for example, screws and/or nails and/or service fixtures such as, for example, electrical wires and/or drainage pipes, can be inserted into and/or through the walls thereof without the risk of other gases, such as, for example, carbon dioxide, being released into the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device is inserted. It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that in a domestic environment, service fixtures such as, for example, electrical wires and/or drainage pipes are typically put in after the insulation has been inserted. When the gas comprises air, the expandable insulation device according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise an optional carbon dioxide-containing layer. In certain embodiments, the carbon dioxide-containing layer may comprise a layer having one or more pockets filled with carbon dioxide. For example, the carbon dioxide-containing layer may comprise a plastic sheet comprising one or more pockets filled with carbon dioxide. Suitably, the carbon dioxide-containing layer may comprise a plastic sheet having a plurality of pockets filled with carbon dioxide. Suitably, the carbon dioxide-containing layer may comprise bubble- wrap filled with carbon dioxide. Advantageously, the use of an additional carbon-dioxide layer increases the insulating properties of the expandable insulation device, particularly, when the gas comprises air.

In certain embodiments, the gas may comprise carbon dioxide. For example, the gas may comprise carbon dioxide when the expandable insulation device is used in a commercial environment. Commercial environments include, for example, offices, retail buildings and the like. Advantageously, the use of carbon dioxide as the gas in a commercial environment means that the insulating properties of the expandable insulation device is increased. This is because carbon dioxide has better insulating properties than, for example, air. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the potential problem of carbon dioxide being released from the expandable insulation device need not typically be a consideration in a commercial environment where fittings such as, for example, screws and/or nails and/or service fixtures such as, for example, electrical wires and/or drainage pipes are generally not used. For example, services such as, for example, electrical wires and/or drainage pipes are generally internal in a commercial building. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise optional locating means operable to allow the expandable insulation device to be placed in a suitable position and/or orientation relative to another expandable insulation device, in use. The locating means, when present, may be of any suitable form. For example, the locating means may be in the form of complimentary male and female connection members. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may comprise one or more male connection members each operable to be inserted into a female connection member of another expandable insulation device or the expandable insulation device may comprise one or more female connection members each operable to receive a male connection member of another expandable insulation device. The male and female connection members may each have any suitable form. For example, the male connection member may have a square, semi-circular, triangular or rectangular cross sectional shape. It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that the male and female typically have complimentary shapes. Thus, the female connection members may be of a form that is operable to receive male connection members of square, semi-circular, triangular or rectangular cross sectional shape. Suitably, the female connections members may have a square, semi-circular, triangular or rectangular shaped channel or groove. Suitably, the female connections members may have a triangular or rectangular shaped channel or groove. Advantageously, the use of female members having a triangular shaped channel or groove enables the male receiving member to be easily located within said channel or groove, even if the male receiving member is not located in the correct position initially.

The locating means, when present, may be located on any suitable part of the expandable insulation device. In certain embodiments, the locating means, when present, may be located on the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the locating means, when present, may be located around the peripheries of the first and second surfaces of the envelope, such as on the connecting portion, when present, of the envelope. The locating means, when present, may be attached to envelope, such as the connecting portion of the envelope, by any suitable method.

In certain embodiments, the locating means, when present, may be located on the substantially planar element. The locating means, when present, may be attached to the substantially planar element or may be integrally formed therewith. Suitably, the location means, when present, may be integrally formed therewith.

Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the substantially planar element may extend beyond the first surface of the envelope. In such embodiments, the extended portion of the substantially planar element may be used to locate the expandable insulation device in a suitable position and/or orientation relative to another expandable insulation device, in use. For example, in use, the extended portion of the substantially planar portion typically overlaps with an adjacent expandable insulation device locate said expandable insulation devices in an abutting position next to one another. In certain embodiments, the extended portion of the substantially planar element may be complimentary to the shape of the substantially planar element of another expandable insulation device. In this way, in use, the extended portion of the substantially planar element may be received, for example, over the surface of the substantially planar element of an adjacent expandable insulation device in a substantially fully complimentary manner. Advantageously, the use of an extended portion of the substantially planar element is easier and cheaper to manufacture than, for example, the use of locating means. Advantageously, when the extended portion of the substantially planar element is received, for example, over the surface of the substantially planar element of an adjacent expandable insulation device in a substantially fully complimentary manner a substantially waterproof barrier may be formed.

Advantageously, the use of the locating means enables each expandable insulation device to be positioned within the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device is inserted such that they are in correct alignment with one another. For example, the use of the locating means may enable each expandable insulation device to be positioned within the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device is inserted such that they abut one another. This means that there are substantially no air gaps between each adjacent expandable insulation device, either in the vertical or horizontal direction. This may, for example, allow the expandable insulation device to meet building regulations.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form;

and wherein the expandable insulation device further comprises locating means operable to allow the expandable insulation device to be placed in a suitable position and/or orientation relative to another expandable insulation device.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise one or more optional foil layer. The or each foil layer, when present, may be formed from any suitable material. Suitably, the foil layer, when present, may be selected so as to have low emissivity. "Low emissivity", and like terms as used herein, means, unless specified otherwise, that the foil layer should emit low levels of radiant thermal (i.e. heat) energy. Suitably, the foil layer, when present, may be selected so as to have high reflectivity at a wavelength of about 3 to 15 microns (μηι). "High reflectivity", and like terms as used herein, means, unless specified otherwise, that the foil layer should reflect high levels of radiant thermal (i.e. heat) energy, in particular at the specified wavelengths. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, the following: metal foil, such as aluminium foil or tin foil; plastic foil; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the or each foil layer, when present, may be a metal foil.

In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer, when present, may, in use, be between the first surface of the envelope and a wall of a building and/or may be between the second surface of the envelope and a wall of a building. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that each foil layer, when more than one foil layer is present, may be formed from the same or from different materials.

Advantageously, the provision of at least one foil layer, when present, may, in use, improve the thermal insulation of the expandable insulation device.

In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope. Suitably, the or each foil layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope during the manufacturing process. In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope by an adhesive. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when one or more foil layer is optionally attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope, one or more additional foil layers which are not attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope may also be provided.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise one or more optional puncture resistant layer.

In certain embodiments, the or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may, in use, be between the first surface of the envelope and a wall of a building and/or may be between the second surface of the envelope and a wall of a building. Suitably, the or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may, in use, be between the first surface of the envelope and an inner wall of a building and/or may be between the second surface of the envelope and an outer wall of a building.

The or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials will be well known to a person skilled in the art. It will be appreciated that the material should be of sufficient durability and resilience to resist puncture by, for example, wall fixings such as screws or nails.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that each puncture resistant layer, when more than one puncture resistant layer is present, may be formed from the same or from different materials.

In certain embodiments, the or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope. Suitably, the or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope during the manufacturing process. In certain embodiments, the or each puncture resistant layer, when present, may optionally be attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope by an adhesive. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when one or more puncture resistant layer is optionally attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope, one or more additional puncture resistant layers which are not attached to the first surface of the envelope and/or the second surface of the envelope may also be provided. In certain embodiment, the expandable insulation device according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise one or more optional substantially waterproof layer. The substantially waterproof layer, when present, may comprise any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, plastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate. Advantageously, the provision of an additional substantially waterproof layer may provide a waterproof barrier which prevents any moisture which may be present in the cavity or hollow space of the wall into which the expandable insulation device is inserted from penetrating the expandable insulation device and/or, for example, an internal wall.

In certain embodiments, expandable insulation device of the present invention may be inserted within a cavity or hollow space of a wall of a building.

Thus, according to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for insulating a building, the building comprising at least one wall having a cavity or hollow space therein, the method comprising the steps of;

(a) inserting an expandable insulation device within said cavity or hollow space, wherein the expandable insulation device comprises an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and

(b) subjecting the expandable insulation device to an increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form, wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is substantially compressed in step (a) and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure in step (b).

The expandable insulation device according to the second aspect of the present invention is as described in relation to the first aspect of the present invention.

In step (a), the expandable insulation device is inserted into a cavity or hollow space within a wall of a building. In certain embodiments, one or more expandable insulation device(s) may be inserted into a cavity or hollow space within a wall of a building. Suitably, more than one expandable insulation device may be inserted into a cavity or hollow space within a wall of a building.

In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may be inserted within a cavity or hollow space of a stud wall. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may be inserted between an inner sheet and an outer sheet of a stud wall. For the avoidance of doubt, stud walls comprise an inner sheet and an outer sheet formed from, for example, plasterboard, plywood or oriented strandboard (OSB) with struts or "studs" located therebetween. Typically, the inner sheet is formed from plasterboard. Typically, the outer sheet is formed from plywood or oriented strandboard (OSB). Typically, the inner sheet and outer sheet of the stud wall are attached to the struts and, thus, are held in position by said attachment thereto. Typically, the struts may be formed from one or more of timber or metal, such as steel. Suitably, the struts may be formed from timber. For example, when the struts are formed from timber, the building may be what is known in the art as a 'timber-framed' building. Typically, in use, the struts comprise one or more horizontal member(s) and one or more vertical member(s) arranged therebetween. Accordingly, typically, the members of the struts are arranged such that there are substantially rectangular or square spaces or gaps formed therebetween which form the cavities or hollow spaces of the stud wall when an inner and/or outer sheet is attached to the struts. The inner sheet forms the interior of the building and the outer sheet forms the outside of the building. It will be understood that additional layers of, for example, masonry, may be used to form the inner or outer walls of the building. Suitably, the outer wall comprises additional layers, such as, for example, bricks, concrete blocks or timber, to form the outside of the building. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may be inserted within the cavity or hollow space of a cavity wall. Suitably, the expandable insulation device of the present invention may be inserted between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall. For the avoidance of doubt, cavity walls comprise an inner skin and an outer skin, typically constructed from masonry such as bricks, concrete blocks or timber, separated by a hollow space or cavity. The inner skin forms the interior of the building and the outer skin forms the outside of the building. The inner skin and outer skin of the cavity wall are typically tied together with walls ties which are position at spaced intervals and span the hollow space or cavity.

The inner skin of the cavity wall may be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: bricks; hollow clay bricks; concrete blocks; masonry blocks; natural stone; timber; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the inner skin of the cavity wall may be formed from masonry blocks or timber. The outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: bricks; hollow clay bricks; concrete blocks; masonry blocks; natural stone; timber; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from bricks or concrete blocks, more suitably, the outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from bricks.

The hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be any suitable size. Typically, in the United Kingdom (UK), the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall is at least about 100mm. In certain embodiments, the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to about 200mm, such as from about 90mm to about 150mm, or even from about 90mm to about 120mm. Suitably, the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be about 100mm. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be determined according to the appropriate building regulations.

Advantageously, in step (a), inserting the expandable insulation device within a cavity or hollow space of a wall of a building when it is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby substantially compressed means that the expandable insulation device is simpler to install because the expandable insulation device has a reduced volume and is, thus, typically smaller, in particular smaller in depth, than the cavity or hollow space into which it is to be inserted. This means that the expandable insulation device is less likely to be impeded (or to 'catch') on the wall(s) of the building.

In step (b), the expandable insulation device is subjected to an increased pressure. The expandable insulation device may be subjected to an increased pressure by any suitable method. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may be subjected to an increased pressure by introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Gas may be allowed to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device by any suitable means. In certain embodiments, gas may be allowed to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device by active or by passive means.

The gas may comprise any suitable gas. For example, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide, argon or combinations thereof. Suitably, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide, krypton or a combination thereof. Suitably, the gas may comprise air or carbon dioxide.

Suitable examples of active means of allowing a gas to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device include, but are not limited to, pumping a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device from an outside source of gas or pumping a gas into the envelope from a source of gas provided within the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitable examples of outside sources of gas include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a gas canister; an air pump; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the outside source of gas may be a gas canister.

In certain embodiments, when gas is pumped into the envelope of the expandable insulation device from an outside source, the expandable insulation device may be connected to any suitable means for introducing said gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump. In certain embodiments, the expandable insulation device may be connected to any suitable means for introducing said gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device by a valve located on the expandable insulation device. Suitably, the expandable insulation device may be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump by a valve located on the expandable insulation device. The valve, when present, is as described above in relation to the first aspect of the present invention. Suitable examples of a source of gas provided within the envelope of the expandable insulation device include, but are not limited to, a gas canister. In certain embodiments, when a gas is pumped into the envelope of the expandable insulation device from a source provided within the envelope, the source may be activated so as to release a gas by any suitable means. For example, the source may be activated by causing damage to said source, such as by breaking or piercing said source, so as to cause it to release a gas. For example, a gas canister, when present, may be activated by causing damage to said gas canister, such as by breaking or piercing said gas canister, so as to cause it to release gas.

Typically, when active means of allowing a gas to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device are used, the gas comprises carbon dioxide or argon, suitably, carbon dioxide. Advantageously, the use of carbon dioxide and/or argon results in the expandable insulation device having improved thermal insulation properties because carbon dioxide and/or argon is a more efficient insulator when compared to, for example, air. Suitable examples of passive means of allowing a gas to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device include, but are not limited to, forming a hole in the envelope of the expandable insulation device. Forming a hole in the envelope of the expandable insulation device may be done by any suitable method. For example, a hole may be formed by piercing the envelope of the expandable insulation device using a tool such as, for example, a knife or may be formed by tearing or ripping the envelope of the expandable insulation device, for example, manually. Advantageously, piercing the envelope of the expandable insulation device as a means of allowing gas, such as air, to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device is simple and quick to perform by a user as no specialised equipment is required. Advantageously, piercing the envelope of the expandable insulation device as a means of allowing gas, such as air, to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device is also cheap because no specialised equipment or relatively expensive sources of gas, such as carbon dioxide or argon, are required. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that, when allowing a gas to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device by forming a hole in the envelope of the expandable insulation device, the gas will typically be air from the atmosphere. However, when allowing a gas to enter the envelope of the expandable insulation device by forming a hole in the envelope of the expandable insulation device, gas may alternatively be pumped into the envelope from, for example, an air pump or gas canister through the formed hole.

In certain embodiments, when a hole has been formed in the envelope to allow gas to enter the envelope, the hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed. The hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed by any suitable method. For example, the hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed using tape or an adhesive. Advantageously, subsequently covering and/or resealing the hole may reduce or prevent the amount of gas, such as air, exchange and, thus, increase the thermal properties of the expandable insulation device. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to introducing a gas into the envelope of the expandable insulation device includes introducing a gas into the gaps or pockets within the foam, such as open-celled foam, located therein.

Advantageously, subjecting the expandable insulation device to an increased pressure in step (b) allows the foam, such as open-celled foam, to expand so as to substantially fill the cavity or hollow space within the wall of the building. This has the advantage that additional fixing means are not required because the expandable insulation device is held in place as a result of positive pressure, i.e. from the foam, such as open-celled foam. This also has the advantage that the thermal insulation properties of the expandable insulation device are increased because substantially the whole cavity or hollow space of the wall of the building is filled with the expandable insulation device thus maximising the amount of gas, such as air, carbon dioxide, krypton, argon or combinations thereof, trapped within the cavity or hollow space of the wall of the building. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that it is the trapped or static gas, such as air, carbon dioxide, krypton, argon or combinations thereof, which is present in the envelope of the expandable insulation device which provides the thermal insulation properties. Advantageously, the provision of the substantially planar element allows the expandable insulation device of to be placed in conformity with one side of the wall into which it is inserted, allowing for ease of use and the above mentioned advantages, whilst also allowing the cavity or hollow space within the wall of the building to be substantially filled, even if the other side of the wall is irregularly shaped.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of an expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a wall having a cavity or hollow space therein, the wall comprising an expandable insulation material comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form. All of the features contained herein may be combined with any of the above aspects and in any combination.

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 a shows a plan view of an expandable insulation device which is subjected to a reduced pressure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1 b shows a side view of an expandable insulation device which is subjected to a reduced pressure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2a shows a plan view of an expandable insulation device which is subjected to increased pressure according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2b shows a side view of an expandable insulation device which is subjected to increased pressure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3a shows a plan view of an expandable insulation device inserted within a stud wall according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The expandable insulation device is shown subjected to both increased and reduced pressure.

Figure 3b shows a top view of an expandable insulation device inserted within a stud wall according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The expandable insulation device is shown subjected to both increased and reduced pressure.

Figures 1 a and 1 b show an expandable insulation device (100a, 100b) for insulating a building (not shown), which is subjected to reduced pressure. The expandable insulation device (100a, 100b) is under vacuum. For the avoidance of doubt, like features have been given like numerals, with the exception that those for figure 1 a are succeeded with an 'a' and those for figure 1 b with a 'b'. Both numerals are provided in parentheses if a feature is visible in both figures 1 a and 1 b. Where a feature is only visible in one of figure 1 a or 1 b, only this numeral is provided. The expandable insulation device (100a, 100b) has an envelope (102a, 102b) having a first surface (104a, 104b) and a second surface (106b). The first surface (104a, 104b) and second surface (106b) are connected around their peripheries by a connecting portion (108b). Each of the first surface (104a, 104b), second surface (106b) and connecting portion (108b) are formed from polyethylene which is gas impermeable. The first surface (104a, 104b) has substantially planar element (1 10a, 1 10b) on a portion thereof. The substantially planar element (1 10a, 1 10b) is formed from a rigid polyethylene plastic grid which is attached to the first surface (104a, 104b) by an adhesive. As shown in figure 1 b, in particular, the substantially planar element (1 10a, 1 10b) is planar when subjected to reduced pressure.

The envelope (102a, 102b) is filled with an open-celled foam (not shown). The open celled foam is formed from polyethylene foam. The envelope (102a, 102b) also has a valve (1 12a, 1 12b) operable to be connected to a vacuum pump (not shown). The expandable insulation device (100a, 100b) is subjected to a reduced pressure, by virtue of having been connected to the vacuum pump (not shown), such that the open-celled foam (not shown) is compressed.

Figures 2a and 2b show an expandable insulation device (200a, 200b) for insulating a building (not shown), which is subjected to atmospheric pressure, i.e. an increased pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, like features have been given like numerals, with the exception that those for figure 2a are succeeded with an 'a' and those for figure 2b with a 'b'. Both numerals are provided in parentheses if a feature is visible in both figures 2a and 2b. Where a feature is only visible is one of figure 2a or 2b, only this numeral is provided. Further, like features from figures 1 a and 1 b have been given like numerals, with the exception that the starting number '1 ' has been replaced with a '2'. The expandable insulation device (200a, 200b) has an envelope (202a, 202b) having a first surface (204a, 204b) and a second surface (206b). The first surface (204a, 204b) and second surface (206b) are connected around their peripheries by a connecting portion (208b). Each of the first surface (204a, 204b), second surface (206b) and connecting portion (208b) are formed from polyethylene which is gas impermeable.

The first surface (204a, 204b) has substantially planar element (210a, 210b) on a portion thereof. The substantially planar element (210a, 210b) is formed from a rigid polyethylene plastic grid which is attached to the first surface (204a, 204b) by an adhesive. As shown in figure 2b, in particular, the substantially planar element (210a, 210b) is planar when subjected to atmospheric pressure.

The envelope (202a, 202b) is filled with an open-celled foam (not shown). The open celled foam is formed from polyethylene foam. The envelope (202a, 202b) also has a valve (212a, 212b) operable to be connected to an air pump (not shown). The expandable insulation device (200a, 200b) is under atmospheric pressure, by virtue of having been connected to the air pump (not shown), such that the open-celled foam (not shown) is in an expanded form. In the expanded form, as shown in figures 2a and 2b, the open-celled foam (not shown) exerts a positive pressure on the envelope (202a, 202b) of the expandable insulation device (200a, 200b). As can be seen in figure 2b, in particular, the substantially planar element (210a, 210b) is operable to maintain the first surface (204a, 204b) in a substantially planar configuration.

Figures 3a and 3b show two (2) expandable insulation devices (300a1 , 300a2, 300b1 , 300b2) inserted within a stud wall (314a, 314b) of a timber-framed building. For the avoidance of doubt, like features have been given like numerals, with the exception that those for figure 3a are succeeded with an 'a' and those for figure 3b with a 'b'. Both numerals are provided in parentheses if a feature is visible in both figures 3a and 3b. Where a feature is only visible is one of figure 3a or 3b, only this numeral is provided. Further, like features from figures 1 a and 1 b (and/or 2a and 2b) have been given like numerals, with the exception that the starting number '1 ' (and/or '2') has been replaced with a '3'. The stud wall (314a, 314b) has an inner skin (not shown) and an outer skin (316a, 316b) formed from oriented strandboard (OSB). The stud wall (314a, 314b) has a strut (318a) which is formed from timber and which has two (2) horizontal members (320a1 , 320a2) and three (3) vertical members (322a1 , 322a2, 322a3, 322b1 , 322b2, 322b3). However, it will be appreciated that the struts may be formed from any suitable number of horizontal and vertical members. The vertical members (322a1 , 322a2, 322a3, 322b1 , 322b2, 322b3) are connected between the horizontal members (320a1 , 320a2) forming two (2) cavities or spaces (324a1 , 324a2, 324b1 , 324b2). The expandable insulation devices (300a1 , 300a2, 300b1 , 300b2) are shown subjected to increased pressure (300a1 , 300b1) and reduced pressure (300a2, 300b2). The expandable insulation devices (300a1 , 300a2, 300b1 , 300b2) have an envelope (302a1 , 302a2, 302b1 , 302b2) having a first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2) and a second surface (306b1 , 306b2). The first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2) and second surface (306b1 , 306b2) are connected around their peripheries by a connecting portion (308b1 , 308b2). Each of the first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2), second surface (306b1 , 306b2) and connecting portion (308b1 , 308b2) are formed from polyethylene which is gas impermeable.

The first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2) has substantially planar element (310a1 , 310a2, 310b1 , 310b2) on a portion thereof. The substantially planar element (310a1 , 310a2, 310b1 , 310b2) is formed from a rigid polyethylene plastic grid which is attached to the first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2) by an adhesive. As shown in figure 3b, in particular, the substantially planar element (310a1 , 310a2, 310b1 , 310b2) is planar both when subjected to atmospheric pressure and to a reduced pressure.

The envelope (302a1 , 302a2, 302b1 , 302b2) is filled with an open-celled foam (not shown). The open celled foam is formed from polyethylene foam. The envelope (302a1 , 302a2, 302b1 , 302b2) also has a valve (312a1 , 312a2, 312b1 , 312b2) operable to be connected to a vacuum pump (not shown) or an air pump (not shown). The expandable insulation device (300a1 , 300a2, 300b1 , 300b2) is shown both under atmospheric pressure (300a1 , 300b1 ), by virtue of having been connected to the air pump (not shown), such that the open-celled foam (not shown) is in an expanded form and under reduced pressure (300a2, 300b2), by virtue of having been connected to the vacuum pump (not shown), such that the open-celled (not shown) foam is in a compressed form. In the expanded form, as shown in figures 3a and 3b, the open-celled foam (not shown) exerts a positive pressure on the envelope (302a1 , 302a2, 302b1 , 302b2) of the expandable insulation device (300a1 , 300a2, 300b1 , 300b2). As can be seen in figure 3b, in particular, the substantially planar element (310a1 , 310a2, 310b1 , 310b2) is operable to maintain the first surface (304a1 , 304a2, 304b1 , 304b2) in a substantially planar configuration when subjected to atmospheric pressure and to a reduced pressure.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1 . An expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and

a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form.

2. An expandable insulation device according to claim 1 , the foam comprises an open- celled foam.

3. An expandable insulation device according to claim 2, wherein the open-celled foam is polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foam or combinations thereof.

4. An expandable insulation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the envelope comprises a plastic material.

5. An expandable insulation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second surfaces are connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion.

6. An expandable insulation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the substantially planar element is formed from a semi-rigid plastic.

7. An expandable insulation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the expandable insulation device comprises a valve operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas present in the envelope and also operable be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope.

An expandable insulation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the expandable insulation device further comprises one or more puncture resistant layer(s).

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and

a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form;

10. A method for insulating a building, the building comprising at least one wall having a cavity or hollow space therein, the method comprising the steps of;

1 1 . A method according to claim 10, wherein the foam comprises an open-celled foam.

12. A method according to claim 10 or 1 1 , wherein the expandable insulation device is subjected to an increased pressure by pumping a gas into the envelope from an outside source of gas or by pumping a gas into the envelope from a source of gas provided within the envelope.

13. A method according to claim 12, wherein the gas comprise air, carbon dioxide, krypton, argon or combinations thereof.

14. A method according to claim 10 or 1 1 , wherein the expandable insulation device is subjected to an increased pressure by allowing a gas to enter the envelope by forming a hole in the envelope of the expandable insulation device.

15. Use of an expandable insulation device for insulating a building, the expandable insulation device comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and

a foam located within said envelope, wherein the expandable insulation device is operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is thereby substantially compressed; and wherein the first surface of the envelope comprises a substantially planar element operable to maintain said first surface in a substantially planar configuration when the expandable insulation device is subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam is substantially compressed and also when the expandable insulation device is subjected to increased pressure such that the foam is thereby in an expanded form.

16. A wall having a cavity or hollow space therein, the wall comprising an expandable insulation material comprising; an envelope comprising a gas impermeable material having a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries; and