Air conditioner accessory

Abstract

The invention relates to an air conditioner accessory for an air conditioner or a ventilator unit. An air conditioning accessory configured to be positioned in a window opening includes a housing extending in a first direction from an inlet toward an outlet and defining an air passage for guiding air, where the outlet is an angled portion extending at an angle to the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between the window and an associated window frame. The invention further relates to an air-conditioning assembly and a kit comprising an air-conditioning accessory and a closure element. The invention also relates to a method for securing an air conditioner outlet in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an air conditioner accessory, an air conditioner having such an accessory and a method for fixing an air conditioner outlet in a window opening. Background Art

[0002] Portable or mobile air conditioning and ventilation units (often referred to simply as mobile air conditioners or air conditioning units) are known in practice and are commonly used to ventilate or cool specific spaces or rooms in buildings on hot days. In use, the mobile air conditioning unit draws in ambient air through an inlet, which air is then cooled and reintroduced as cooled air into the space to be cooled. The extracted heat is discharged from the space to be cooled through a discharge hose located in the window opening and, in the window open position, between the window frame and the window.

[0003] The disadvantage of these discharge hoses is their relatively large size, which means that the window opening must be quite large. This results in a greater heat exchange through the window opening. However, reducing the size of the discharge hose may cause the compressor to overheat, which can lead to failure of the air conditioning unit.

[0004] Another disadvantage of these known air conditioning units is that the hose can fall out of the opening due to gravity and the forces acting on it. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention aims to solve or at least reduce the above-mentioned problems by providing an air conditioning accessory for an air conditioning or ventilation unit, the air conditioning accessory being configured to be positioned in a window opening, the air conditioning accessory comprising a shell extending from an inlet toward an outlet along a first direction and defining an air passage for guiding air, wherein the outlet is an angled portion extending at an angle to the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame.

[0006] One advantage of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention is that, due to the angled portion, the outlet can be more easily positioned between the window and the window frame. This particular shape reduces the necessary window opening and at the same time provides a sufficiently large opening to exhaust hot air to prevent the air conditioning unit (especially its compressor) from overheating. Thus, the leakage of heat into the space (and / or the leakage of cold air outside the space) through the window opening can be reduced.

[0007] Another advantage is that the specific shape of the angled portion also prevents the air conditioning accessory from being displaced from the window opening.

[0008] Another advantage of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention is that it can also be used in combination with a tiltable window, in which the angled portion can easily slide in the opening formed by the tilting window.

[0009] It should be noted that in use of this air conditioning attachment, the opening between the window and the window frame is also referred to as the window opening in this application and is considered interchangeable.

[0010] The window opening in which the air conditioning accessory is arranged can be a normal window which opens sideways, or it can be a (vertical) tiltable window or an oblique window, for example a tiltable skylight.

[0011] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the fixing element is connected to the housing and is configured to fix the window relative to the window frame such that the angled portion of the housing is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0012] One advantage of the fixing element of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention is that it fixes the window and the window frame to prevent the window from accidentally opening while keeping the outlet in place.

[0013] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the housing is made of a rigid material, preferably metal or a (rigid) plastic material.

[0014] An advantage of a rigid material is that it is able to resist the clamping forces exerted on the air conditioning accessory by the fixing element.

[0015] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the inlet is configured to be operably connected to an outlet of an air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, and is preferably shaped to form a mating connection with the outlet of the air conditioning unit or the ventilation device.

[0016] Preferably, the inlet is adapted to provide a matching connection with an outlet of an air conditioning or ventilation unit to reduce leakage of air discharged into the space to be cooled or ventilated. In most cases, the matching connection will be established by providing a circular inlet, which can for example slide over or inside a circular outlet of the unit. However, another connection is also possible.

[0017] It should be noted that the operable connection may also (additionally) include a hose or other conduit between the unit outlet and the air conditioning accessory inlet.

[0018] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the fixing element may be releasably connected to the housing.

[0019] One advantage of this embodiment is that it allows the fixing element to be attached to a variety of different positions on the housing. Thus, the air conditioning accessory can be used with a variety of different types of windows, for example, windows that rotate inwards or outwards and windows that rotate to the left or to the right. This can be achieved, for example, by attaching the fixing element to the right side of the housing or to the left side of the housing.

[0020] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the fixing element may include a window frame connector, which is operably connected to the housing and configured to be connected to the window frame. In addition, the fixing element may include a window stopper, which is operably connected to the housing and can be configured to cooperate with the window frame connector to clamp the window in the open position between the two.

[0021] This embodiment provides a simple and effective way of fixing the window, the window frame and the housing relative to each other. The window frame connector allows the air conditioning accessory to be operably connected to the window frame in an easier manner, while acting as a connecting element to fix the window in place together with the window stop.

[0022] Another advantage is that only a few parts are required to secure the window in position where the casing (particularly the angled portion thereof) is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0023] In one embodiment of the air conditioner accessory according to the present invention, the fixing element may further include a fixing element base, which extends a predetermined length along the first direction and is connected to the side wall of the shell, wherein at least one of the window frame connector and the window stopper is connected to the fixing element base.

[0024] An advantage of the fixing element base is that the window frame connection piece and the window stop can be releasably connected more easily than being connected to the housing. In addition, this embodiment allows the entire fixing element to be replaced when necessary.

[0025] Another advantage is that the fixing element base can be made of a different material than the housing, such as, for example, stainless steel or aluminum, to increase strength.

[0026] Another advantage of providing a fixing element base is that the fixing element base can be easily detached and reattached to another location on the accessory housing.

[0027] Preferably, the fixing element base is connected to a lateral side wall of the housing, which is the side wall of the housing that defines the height, rather than the width, of the air passage.

[0028] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the window frame connection piece may be movably, preferably slidably, connected to the housing or alternatively to the fixing element base.

[0029] One advantage of a slidable connection is that the sash connector (its associated surface) can be aligned with the inner edge of the angled portion of the housing.

[0030] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the window frame connection piece may be connected to the housing at one of a plurality of predetermined connection locations on the housing or, alternatively, on the base of the fixing element.

[0031] An advantage of providing a plurality of predetermined connection positions is that the window frame connection element can be easily connected to the housing or the fixed base element.

[0032] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the window frame connector may include a support bracket having a connecting portion and a U-shaped retaining portion, the connecting portion being configured to be operably connected to the housing and the U-shaped retaining portion being configured to be positioned around the window frame.

[0033] The advantage of providing a support bracket is that the support bracket provides a strong and reliable connection. The advantage of providing a U-shaped retaining portion is that the U-shaped retaining portion can be easily positioned on the window frame, while the connecting portion can be easily connected to the housing or fixing element base.

[0034] The connecting element is preferably connected to the outer end of one leg of the U-shape and extends vertically away from the U. This allows the connecting element to be connected to the housing or the fixing element base.

[0035] Another advantage of the U-shaped retaining portion is that the U-shaped retaining portion does not require any connecting means to be positioned on the window frame. This prevents damage to the window frame and allows the air conditioning accessory to be easily transferred to another window opening.

[0036] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the U-shaped retaining portion may include a first angled portion and a second angled portion, which together define the distance between the first leg and the second leg of the U-shaped retaining portion, wherein the first angled portion and the second angled portion are releasably connected to each other so that the distance can be adjusted.

[0037] By providing two releasable parts which together form a U-shape, the distance between the legs can be adapted to the thickness of the window frame, so as to achieve a substantially matching mounting of the window frame connector on the window frame.

[0038] One advantage is that the air conditioning attachment becomes more flexible as it can be attached to window frames of different types and thicknesses.

[0039] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the window block may include: a supporting element, including a base and an extension, the base being configured to be operably connected to the housing and the extension extending substantially vertically from the base; and a distance element connected to the extension and configured to clamp the air conditioning accessory (particularly its angled portion) in the opening by fixing the window against the window frame connector.

[0040] An advantage of this structure is that the base can be used to provide a rough positioning relative to the window, while the distance element can be used to overcome the remaining distance from the window and provide the force required to fix the window and the air conditioning accessory to the window frame.

[0041] Preferably, the window stop is releasably connectable to the housing or fixing element base and can be positioned at a plurality of predetermined positions on the housing or fixing element base.

[0042] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the angled portion may extend substantially along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0043] The advantage of providing an angled portion with an angle in the second direction (i.e., an angle of 90° relative to the first direction) is that the angled portion is substantially flush with the window, thereby reducing air leakage between the space to be cooled or ventilated and the environment. This in turn increases the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning or ventilation unit.

[0044] Another advantage is that, due to the 90° angle, the angled portion can be easily positioned (and retained) in the opening between the window and the window frame.

[0045] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the inner side wall of the angled portion is configured to be flush with the edge of the window when the air conditioning accessory is in use.

[0046] One advantage of providing a flush position is that the fixation of the casing, in particular the angled portion, between the window and the window frame is further improved.

[0047] Another advantage is that the flush positioning also reduces air leakage between the space to be cooled or ventilated and the environment, which increases the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning or ventilation unit.

[0048] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the outlet may be a square or rectangular channel provided with a plurality of supporting fins arranged in the channel to increase the rigidity of the angled portion.

[0049] One advantage of the support fins is that they increase the rigidity of the angled portion, thereby increasing resistance to compression of the outlet opening by the clamping force exerted on the angled portion by the window stop. In other words, the support fins reduce the risk of outlet compression and the associated reduction in the discharge capacity of the air conditioning accessory.

[0050] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the channel comprises channel walls which define the outlet, and wherein an outer side of one or more of the channel walls is provided with anti-slip material.

[0051] One advantage of providing anti-slip material at one or more of the above-mentioned locations is that accidental release of the window frame connection is substantially prevented or at least significantly reduced.

[0052] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the housing inlet may have a substantially circular cross-section, the housing outlet may have a substantially square or rectangular cross-section, and wherein the housing converges from a circular cross-section to a square or rectangular cross-section along a first direction.

[0053] It has been found that an outlet with a rectangular or square cross section has several advantages compared to a circular cross section. First, a rectangular or square cross section can be more easily positioned in the opening between the window and the window frame because it is more similar to the shape of the opening.

[0054] Secondly, a rectangular or square cross section allows a substantially vertical angle to be formed in the housing to form an angled portion. The vertical angle allows the angled portion to be more easily positioned against the edge of the window and into the opening. This is not possible or at least not easy to achieve with a circular cross section of the housing.

[0055] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, in use of the air conditioning accessory, the angled portion is fixed between a window and an associated window frame.

[0056] In use of the air conditioning accessory, the angled portion may be positioned flush with the corner of the window so that the outlet is directed toward the environment outside the window. The fixing is then at least partially achieved by the fixing element. In the case of a tiltable window (tilted to an open position), the clamping may also be achieved in part by sliding the angled portion downwards in the opening (i.e. substantially in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions) until it is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0057] It should be noted that the air conditioning accessory according to the invention is particularly suitable for air conditioning or ventilation units that are intended to exhaust air outside a building and do not have a direct outlet to the environment. In most cases, such units are mobile units or, alternatively, fixed units that do not have a separate outlet to the environment and rely on separate hoses to exhaust air from the space to be cooled or ventilated.

[0058] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the inlet comprises connection means, such as connection clips or threads, which are configured to connect the inlet to an outlet of the air conditioner of the ventilation unit.

[0059] An advantage of the connection device is that the inlet of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention can be easily releasably connected to an air conditioning or ventilation device or unit. Thus, the air conditioning accessory can be used for a variety of different air conditioning or ventilation units.

[0060] In one embodiment of the air conditioner accessory according to the present invention, the air conditioner accessory further comprises an anti-slip material, such as rubber, silicon or another material that increases friction.

[0061] One advantage of non-slip materials is that, particularly when applied to surfaces that come into contact with a window or window frame, the non-slip material provides additional grip or strength to hold the air conditioning accessory in place.

[0062] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the anti-slip material is provided on at least a portion of the U-shaped bracket, and preferably on the inner side of the U-shaped connection portion and / or one or both legs of the U-shaped bracket.

[0063] One advantage of providing anti-slip material at one or more of the above-mentioned locations is that accidental release of the window frame connection is substantially prevented or at least significantly reduced.

[0064] In one embodiment of an air conditioning accessory according to the present invention, the air conditioning accessory is configured to be positioned in a window opening of a window inclined relative to a vertical plane, wherein the shell extends a predetermined distance from an entrance along a first direction and then extends a predetermined second distance toward an exit along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction to form an angled portion configured to be positioned between the window and an associated window frame, wherein the angled portion has a conical shape when viewed along a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0065] Although the above described embodiments are preferably applied in combination with fixing elements, it should be noted that due to the tapered shape, it is not necessary to use fixing elements.

[0066] In one embodiment of the air conditioning accessory according to the invention, the cross section of the outlet is dimensioned to the power output of the compressor.

[0067] An advantage of this embodiment is that overheating of the compressor is substantially prevented because the outlet is sized to allow all necessary heat to be discharged.

[0068] The invention also relates to an air conditioning assembly, comprising an air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, preferably a movable air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, and an air conditioning accessory according to the invention.

[0069] The air conditioning assembly according to the present invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention. It should be noted that the embodiments described for the air conditioning accessory according to the present invention can be freely applied alone or in combination with the air conditioning assembly according to the present invention.

[0070] In one embodiment of the air conditioning assembly according to the present invention, the air conditioning assembly may further include a closing element configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening to seal the window opening to prevent airflow between the space to be cooled and the external environment.

[0071] One advantage of the closing element is that the opening between the window and the window frame can be sealed substantially completely against air transfer in order to prevent cool air from escaping into the environment and / or to prevent hot outside air from entering the space to be cooled.

[0072] In one embodiment of the air conditioning assembly according to the invention, the closing element is a strip of flexible material, preferably an insulating flexible material such as foam, which can be located in the window opening.

[0073] An advantage of a flexible material is that the flexible material can be positioned to seal the entire opening. An advantage of an insulating material is that the insulating material further reduces heat transfer.

[0074] The invention also relates to a kit comprising an air conditioning accessory according to the invention and a closing element, the closing element being configured to be positioned between a window and a window frame in a window opening, and wherein the air conditioning accessory and the closing element cooperate to seal the window opening to prevent airflow between the space to be cooled and the external environment.

[0075] The kit according to the invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning accessory and air conditioning assembly according to the invention. It should be noted that the embodiments described for the air conditioning accessory and air conditioning assembly according to the invention can be freely applied alone or in combination with the kit according to the invention.

[0076] In particular, the kit provides the user with a complete package which overcomes the disadvantages of known air conditioning units and improves their efficiency.

[0077] The invention also relates to a method for fixing an air conditioning outlet in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame, the method comprising:

[0078] - providing an air conditioning accessory according to the invention or an air conditioning assembly according to the invention;

[0079] - Position the window frame connection piece around the window frame so that the air duct outlet faces outwards;

[0080] - moving the window so that the first side abuts the angled portion and / or the window frame; and

[0081] - positioning a window stop against a second side of the window opposite the first side to secure the window and the air conditioning accessory relative to the window frame.

[0082] The method according to the present invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning accessory, air conditioning assembly and kit according to the present invention. It should be noted that the embodiments described for the air conditioning accessory, air conditioning assembly and kit according to the present invention can be freely applied alone or in combination with the method according to the present invention.

[0083] In particular, the method provides an easy, consumer-friendly way of eliminating the disadvantages of known air conditioning units by providing and using an air conditioning accessory according to the present invention. The air conditioning accessory can be easily installed (and removed after use) without the need to install auxiliary connection means.

[0084] In one embodiment of the method according to the present invention, the step of positioning the window frame connection member may include:

[0085] -Determine the thickness of the window frame;

[0086] - adjusting the distance between the first angled portion and the second angled portion of the U-shaped retaining portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame;

[0087] and / or include the following steps:

[0088] - moving the first angled portion against the inner side of the window frame; and

[0089] - Fixing the first angled portion relative to the housing.

[0090] An advantage of the above steps is that it provides a substantially tight fit around the window frame. An advantage of moving the first angled portion (ie the portion closest to the window) is that the first angled portion is aligned with the housing, which improves the fixation of the housing in the window opening.

[0091] In one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of positioning the window stop against the second side of the window may comprise the following steps:

[0092] - positioning the window stop relative to the window frame connection (preferably on the inside thereof) so that the distance between the window stop and the window frame connection substantially matches the thickness of the window;

[0093] -operably connecting the window stop to the housing;

[0094] - moving the distance element of the window stop against the window to clamp the window against the window frame connection and fix the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

[0095] One advantage of this embodiment is that the window stop can be positioned with high precision in two consecutive steps. For a particular window, the initial positioning of the window stop by connecting the base of the support element to the housing or the base of the fixing element only needs to be done once. Subsequently, the actual fixing can be done using the distance element. This ensures that the user can quickly attach and detach the air conditioning accessory to the window opening by operating the distance element after the initial assembly.

[0096] In one embodiment of the method according to the present invention, the method may further comprise the following steps:

[0097] - determining the window type, wherein the determining comprises:

[0098] ~Determine whether the window is an inward-swinging window or an outward-swinging window; and

[0099] ~Determine whether the window is a left-swing window or a right-swing window;

[0100] - Depending on the window type, attach the fixing element, preferably the fixing element base, to the right or left side of the housing.

[0101] One advantage of the above embodiment is that the method provides a solution for multiple window types by providing a single air conditioning attachment. This increases flexibility for the consumer. In addition, the method reduces manufacturing costs because it eliminates the need to manufacture a variety of different types of air conditioning attachments for different windows.

[0102] In one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of positioning the window stop relative to the window frame connection comprises the step of positioning the window stop, preferably its base, at one of a plurality of predetermined connection positions on the housing or alternatively at the fixing element base.

[0103] One advantage of providing a releasable window stop is that the initial positioning of the window stop can be carried out by connecting the base of the support element to the housing or the base of the fixing element. Subsequently, the actual fixing can be carried out using the distance element. This ensures that the user can quickly attach and detach the air conditioning accessory to the window opening by operating the distance element after the initial assembly.

[0104] An advantage of the tapered (preferably triangular) shape of the outlet arranged in the third direction is that the outlet can be easily positioned in a (vertically) angled window without falling out of the opening. This particular embodiment is particularly configured for use in conjunction with a vertically tiltable window.

[0105] Preferably, the conical or triangular shape fits the opening of the vertically inclined window so that it can be tightly inserted into the opening. It should be noted that this particular embodiment can be freely combined with the above embodiments in the present application. This embodiment can also be used as part of a kit and / or assembly and can also be used in the method according to the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are explained based on preferred embodiments of the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0107] Figure 1 A perspective view showing an example of an air conditioning accessory according to the present invention;

[0108] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of an example of;

[0109] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a second example of an air conditioning accessory according to the present invention;

[0110] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A side view of an example of;

[0111] Figure 5 Shows Figure 2 A side view of an example of;

[0112] Figure 6 A perspective view showing an example of an air conditioning assembly according to the present invention being placed in a window opening;

[0113] Figure 7 A perspective view showing an example of a kit according to the present invention; and

[0114] Figure 8 A schematic example of one example of a method according to the invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0115] In one example of air conditioning annex 2 (see Figure 1 and 2), the air conditioning accessory 2 comprises a housing 4 and a fixing element 18. In this example, the housing 4 extends from the inlet 6 along a first direction x to a bend 8 originating from inside the outlet 10. In other words, the outlet 10 is positioned at an angle to the first direction x and, in this example, extends substantially along a second direction y. The second direction y is substantially perpendicular to the first direction x. In this example, the bend 8 and the outlet 10 together form an angled portion 12. The angled portion 12 is configured to be positioned against and partially around an edge of a window (not shown). Thus, the housing 4 defines an air channel C extending parallel to the longitudinal axis A in a first portion C1 and at an angle of 90° to the longitudinal axis A in a second portion C2. The housing 4 further comprises a connecting device 16 (in this example in the form of a connecting hook 16) which allows the air conditioning accessory 2 to be connected to the outlet of the air conditioning unit. In this example, the housing 4 converges from a circular cross-section near the inlet 6 to a rectangular cross-section at the outlet 10 (see Figure 2 ).

[0116] In this example, the fixing element 18 comprises a fixing element base 20, which is releasably connected to the lateral side wall 4a of the housing 4. In this example, screws 22 are used for connection, but any other suitable connection method can also be used. The fixing element base 20 extends along a first direction x and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A. The fixing element base 20 is provided with a plurality of different connection locations 24, at which a window stop 26 can be connected in a releasable connection. In this example, bolts 28 are used to connect the window stop 26 to form the connection. The window stop 26 comprises a support element 30, which in turn comprises a base 32 and an extension 34, which is connected to the fixing element base 20. The extension 34 extends away from the base 32 along a second direction y. When used in a window opening, the extension 34 extends substantially parallel to the inner side of the window. The extension 34 is provided with a distance element 36, which in this example is a rotatable element 36, which is provided with a cap 38 on the side facing the window. In this example, the cap 38 is a rubber cap 38. On the opposite side, a knob 40 is positioned to allow the distance element 36 to rotate.

[0117] The fixing element 18 further comprises a sash connector 42 which is slidably connected to the fixing element base 20. The sash connector 42 can slide along the first direction x a predetermined distance S defined by a slot 44 in the fixing element base 20 (not visible).

[0118] In this example, the window frame connector 42 includes a connecting portion 46 and a U-shaped retaining portion 48, the connecting portion 46 is connected to the fixing element base 20, and the U-shaped retaining portion 48 is connected to the connecting portion 46. In use, the U-shaped retaining portion 48 can be positioned around a window frame (not shown). The U-shaped retaining portion 48 includes a first angled portion 50, which is connected to the connecting portion 46 by a first end 52, which also forms the end of a first leg 54 of the U-shaped retaining portion 48. The first angled portion 50 further includes a plurality of connecting openings 51, which allow a second angled portion 56 to be connected thereto. The second angled portion 56 of the U-shaped retaining portion 48 forms a part of the second leg 58 and the U-shaped base 60. In this example, the second angled portion 56 is also provided with connecting openings 62, which allow the first angled portion 50 and the second angled portion 56 to be connected to each other by, for example, a bolt-nut connection or a similar connection.

[0119] The first angled portion 50 and the second angled portion 56 together form the U-shaped retaining portion 48 and define a distance D between the first leg 54 and the second leg 58 of the U-shaped retaining portion 48 .

[0120] In the example of air conditioning Annex 2 (see Figure 3 ), the air conditioning accessory 102 comprises a housing 104 and a fixing element 118. In this example, the housing 104 extends from the inlet 106 along a first direction x to a bend 108, which originates from the inside of the outlet 110. In other words, the outlet 110 is positioned at an angle to the first direction x and extends substantially along a second direction y in this example. The second direction y is substantially perpendicular to the first direction x. In this example, the bend 108 and the outlet 110 together form an angled portion 112. The angled portion 112 is configured to be positioned against and partially around the edge of a window (not shown). Thus, the housing 104 defines an air channel C, which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis A on a first portion C1 and extends at an angle of 90° to the longitudinal axis A on a second portion C2. The housing 104 further comprises a connecting device 116 (in this example in the form of a connecting hook 116) which allows the air conditioning accessory 102 to be connected to the outlet of the air conditioning unit. In this example, the housing 104 converges from a circular cross-section near the inlet 106 to a rectangular cross-section at the outlet 110 (see Figure 3 ).

[0121] In this example, the fixing element 118 comprises a fixing element base 120, which is releasably connected to the lateral side wall 104b of the housing 104. In this example, the connection is made using screws 122, but any other suitable connection method can also be used. The fixing element base 120 extends along a first direction x and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A. The fixing element base 120 is provided with a plurality of different connection locations 124, at which a window stop 126 can be connected in a releasable connection. In this example, the window stop 126 is connected using bolts 128 to form the connection. The window stop 126 comprises a support element 130, which in turn comprises a base 132 (not visible) and an extension 134, which is connected to the fixing element base 120. The extension 134 extends away from the base 132 along a second direction y. When used in a window opening, the extension 134 extends substantially parallel to the inner side of the window. The extension 134 is provided with a distance element 136, which in this example is a rotatable element 136, which is provided on the side facing the window with a cap 138. In this example, the cap 138 is a rubber cap 138. On the opposite side, a knob 140 is positioned to allow the distance element 136 to rotate.

[0122] The fixing element 118 further comprises a sash connector 142 which is slidably connected to the fixing element base 120. The sash connector 142 can slide along the first direction x by a predetermined distance S defined by a slot 144 in the fixing element base 120.

[0123] In this example, the window frame connector 142 includes a connecting portion 146 and a U-shaped retaining portion 148, the connecting portion 146 being connected to the fixing element base 120, and the U-shaped retaining portion 148 being connected to the connecting portion 146. In use, the U-shaped retaining portion 148 can be positioned around a window frame (not shown). The U-shaped retaining portion 148 includes a first angled portion 150, which is connected to the connecting portion 146 by a first end 152 (not visible), which first end 152 also forms the end of a first leg 154 of the U-shaped retaining portion 148. The first angled portion 150 further includes a plurality of connecting openings 151, which allow a second angled portion 156 to be connected thereto. The second angled portion 156 of the U-shaped retaining portion 148 forms a second leg 158 and a portion of the U-shaped base 160. In this example, the second angled portion 156 is also provided with connection openings 162 that allow the first angled portion 150 and the second angled portion 156 to be connected to each other, for example, by a bolt-nut connection or the like.

[0124] The first angled portion 150 and the second angled portion 156 together form the U-shaped retaining portion 48 and define a distance D between the first leg 154 and the second leg 158 of the U-shaped retaining portion 148 .

[0125] In one embodiment of the kit 200 (see Figure 7 ), the kit 200 includes an air conditioning accessory 202 and a closure element 264, which is configured as a sealing strip assembly 264 in this example. In this example, the sealing strip assembly 264 includes a first sealing strip 266 and a second sealing strip 270. The first sealing strip 266 extends a length LS1 and is provided with a folding point 268 (in this case a groove 268) in this example, which allows the first sealing strip 266 to be bent into an arc of 90°. Then, in the bent position, the first sealing strip 266 includes a first portion LS1.1 and a second portion LS1.2. This allows the first sealing strip 266 to be positioned in the opening of the window along the side (i.e., in the width direction of the window) and with a certain length in the height direction. The width WS1 of the first sealing strip 266 is sufficient to clamp in the opening to seal the opening. To this end, the first sealing strip 266 is preferably at least slightly compressible.

[0126] The second sealing strip 270 is provided with a folding point 272, which divides the second sealing strip 270 into a first portion having a length LS2.1 and a second portion having a length LS2.2, which together define a total length LS2. The second sealing strip 270 has a predetermined width WS2, so that the second sealing strip 270 can be arranged in the opening between the window and the window frame. Preferably, the second sealing strip 270 is formed of a slightly compressible material (such as foam, preferably insulating foam).

[0127] The air conditioning accessory 202 includes a housing 204 having an inlet 206 that can be connected to an outlet (not shown) of an air conditioning unit. The air conditioning accessory 202 further includes a fixing element 218 that includes a fixing element base 220 to which a window stop 226 and a window frame connector 242 are connected. The window frame connector 242 includes a U-shaped retaining portion 248 that includes a first leg 254 and a second leg 258 that are part of a first angled portion 250 and a second angled portion 256, respectively.

[0128] In one example of the air conditioning assembly 300 (see Figure 6), the air conditioning assembly 300 comprises the air conditioning accessory 202 and the air conditioning unit 374. In this example, the air conditioning unit 374 comprises a housing 376 having an inlet (not shown) and a cold air outlet 378. The housing 376 further comprises a hot air outlet 380, which in this example is connected to a first end 382 of a discharge hose 384. The second end 386 of the discharge hose 384 is connected to the inlet 306 of the air conditioning accessory 302 via a connecting device 316. In this particular example, the air conditioning assembly 300 is shown in a use position, which means that the air conditioning assembly 300 is ready for use and the air conditioning accessory 302 is held in place (in a clamped position) relative to the window 388 and the window frame 390. To this end, the fixing element 318 is positioned around the window frame 390, and the window stop 326 in this example is used to press the window 388 against the closing element 364, in particular against the second sealing strip 370 arranged between the window 388 and the window frame 390. In this example, the second sealing strip 270 also presses against the first leg of the U-shaped retaining portion of the window frame connection (not visible).

[0129] In one example of method 1000 (see Figure 8 ), method 1000 includes step 1002 of providing an air conditioning accessory or air conditioning assembly according to the present invention. In subsequent steps, method 1000 includes step 1004 of positioning a window frame connector around a window frame so that the air passage outlet faces outward; and step 1006 of moving the window so that a first side abuts against the angled portion and / or the window frame. In this example, method 1000 further includes step 1008 of placing a window stop against a second side of the window opposite to the first side to fix the window and the air conditioning accessory relative to the window frame.

[0130] Optionally, step 1004 of positioning the window frame connector of method 1000 may include step 1010 : determining the window frame thickness; and step 1012 : adjusting the distance between the first angle portion and the second angle portion of the U-shaped retaining portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame.

[0131] Optionally, the step 1004 of positioning the window frame connection member of the method 1000 may include the step 1014 of moving the first angled portion against the inside of the window frame; and the step 1016 of fixing the first angled portion relative to the housing.

[0132] Further optionally, step 1008 of placing the window stop against the second side of the window of method 1000 may include step 1018: positioning the window stop relative to the window frame connection (preferably the inner side thereof) so that the distance between the window stop and the window frame connection substantially matches the thickness of the window; and step 1020: subsequently operably connecting the window stop to the housing. Step 1008 may further optionally include step 1022: moving a distance element of the window stop against the window to clamp the window against the window frame connection and fix the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

[0133] In this example, method 1000 further includes optional step 1024: determining the window type; and optional step 1026: connecting the fixing element (preferably the fixing element base) to the right side or the left side of the housing according to the window type. In this example, determining step 1024 includes step 1028: determining whether the window is an inward swing window or an outward swing window; and step 1030: determining whether the window is a left swing window or a right swing window.

[0134] The invention is in no way limited to the preferred embodiments described above and / or their experiments. The rights sought are defined by the scope of the appended claims, within which many modifications are conceivable.

Claims

1. An air conditioning accessory for an air conditioning or ventilation unit, the air conditioning accessory being configured to be positioned in a window opening, the air conditioning accessory comprising a housing extending along a first direction from an inlet toward an outlet and defining an air passage for guiding air, wherein the outlet is an angled portion extending at an angle to the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame.

2. The air conditioning accessory of claim 1, further comprising a fixing element connected to the housing and configured to fix the window relative to the window frame such that the angled portion of the housing is sandwiched between the window and the window frame.

3. The air conditioning accessory according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing element is releasably connected to the housing.

4. The air conditioning accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fixing element comprises: - a window frame connection member operatively connected to the housing and configured to be connected to a window frame; as well as - A window stop operatively connected to the housing and configured to cooperate with the sash connection to clamp the window in an open position therebetween.

5. An air conditioning accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing element further comprises a fixing element base extending a predetermined length along the first direction and connected to the side wall of the housing, and when dependent on claim 4, wherein at least one of the window frame connector and the window stop is connected to the fixing element base.

6. The air conditioning accessory according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the window frame connection piece is movably connected to the housing or the fixing element base, preferably slidably connected to the housing or the fixing element base.

7. An air conditioning accessory according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the window frame connector includes a support bracket having a connecting portion and a U-shaped retaining portion, the connecting portion being configured to be operably connected to the housing, and the U-shaped retaining portion being configured to be positioned around the window frame.

8. An air conditioning accessory according to claim 7, wherein the U-shaped retaining portion includes a first angled portion and a second angled portion, the first angled portion and the second angled portion jointly defining a distance between the first leg and the second leg of the U-shaped retaining portion, wherein the first angled portion and the second angled portion are releasably connected to each other so that the distance can be adjusted.

9. An air conditioning accessory according to any preceding claim, when dependent on claim 4, wherein the window stop comprises: - a support element comprising a base portion and an extension portion, the base portion being configured to be operably connected to the housing and the extension portion extending substantially perpendicularly from the base portion; as well as - A distance element connected to the extension and configured to fix the window against the window frame connection to clamp the angled portion in the window opening.

10. An air conditioning accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the angled portion extends substantially in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

11. An air conditioning assembly comprising an air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, preferably a movable air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, and an air conditioning accessory according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. The air conditioning assembly of claim 11, further comprising a closure element configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening to seal the window opening to prevent airflow between the space to be cooled and an external environment.

13. A kit comprising an air conditioning accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and a closure element, the closure element being configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening, and wherein the air conditioning accessory and the closure element are configured to cooperate to seal the window opening to prevent airflow between the space to be cooled and the external environment.

14. A method for securing an air conditioning outlet in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame, the method comprising: - Providing an air conditioning accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or an air conditioning assembly according to claim 11 or 12; - positioning the window frame connection piece around the window frame so that the air passage outlet faces outwards; - moving the window so that the first side abuts against the angled portion and / or the window frame; and - positioning the window stop against a second side of the window opposite the first side to secure the window and the air conditioning accessory relative to the window frame.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the step of positioning the window frame connection member comprises: - Determine the thickness of the window frame; - adjusting the distance between the first angled portion and the second angled portion of the U-shaped retaining portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame; and / or include the following steps: - moving the first angled portion against the inner side of the window frame; as well as - Fixing the first angled portion relative to the housing.

16. The method of any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the step of positioning the window stop against the second side of the window comprises the steps of: - positioning the window stop relative to the window frame connection, preferably on the inside thereof, such that the distance between the window stop and the window frame connection substantially matches the thickness of the window; - operatively connecting the window stop to the housing; - moving the distance element of the window stop against the window so as to clamp the window against the window frame connection and fix the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

17. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, further comprising the steps of: - determining the window type, wherein said determining comprises: - determining whether the window is an inward-swinging window or an outward-swinging window; and ~determine whether the window is a left-swinging window or a right-swinging window; - Depending on the window type, the fixing element is connected to the right or left side of the housing, preferably the fixing element base is connected to the right or left side of the housing.

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