Ventilation fan adjusting ring and ventilation fan system

Abstract

The invention discloses a ventilation fan adjusting ring. The ventilation fan adjusting ring comprises a base part and an adjusting part, a wall extending from the base; an opening defined by the recess of the base; and at least one slot defined by the slot portion of the base. The base may have a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The wall may extend from the base in a first direction. The wall may define an interior space of the base. An opening may be disposed in the interior space of the base. The recess of the base may extend in a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to ventilation fans, and more specifically, to a trimring for ventilation fans and ventilation fan systems to prevent air loss from conditioned air environments to unconditioned air environments, such as air loss from conditioned rooms to unconditioned attics and subfloors. Background Technology

[0002] Modern building structures, such as residential or office buildings, are tightly sealed and well-isolated. The indoor air quality of these structures is often affected by general ventilation filtration or source capture, such as in kitchens and bathrooms with steam and moisture from showers.

[0003] Typical ventilation systems extract moisture and odors from various rooms within a building structure and expel air and odors to the outside of the building. Essentially, ventilation systems help remove steam or odors from a room. This practice helps prevent excessive moisture, mold, mildew, and rot within structural walls. For example, steam generated during shower use can spread throughout the space and eventually condense on the back of walls or drywall, potentially leading to mold growth. Additionally, maintaining high humidity levels in confined areas provides a habitat for cockroaches, mice, and other unwanted pests. Current residential building standards have also been implemented to require good insulation and greater airtightness for homes, resulting in less air loss.

[0004] The basic working principle of a ventilation fan is that an electric motor rotates a fan that draws humid air out of a space (e.g., a bathroom, kitchen) and releases it to the outside. Fans typically generate air movement and prevent moisture from condensing on wall surfaces. Ventilation systems / fans are usually placed in openings in the drywall of the ceiling, or in some cases, on the ground floor, such as in an attic. The metal casing surrounding the fan includes openings and mounting brackets that allow the metal casing to be mounted to timber or joists. The electric motor for the ventilation fan is mounted in the casing, and a grille (for aesthetic purposes) is placed on the side of the room to conceal the motor. However, a problem now exists with the typical design of ventilation systems, especially in more tightly constructed homes.

[0005] Heating and cooling air can easily escape through openings in one or more ventilation fans within the metal housing. Air can flow around the motor in a drafting manner (e.g., natural chimney effect ventilation) and can leak from other openings in the metal housing. It is also possible for air to leak from electrical / wiring knockouts and / or covers. Installers can use tape, foil tape, or other types of preventative measures to attempt to seal openings in the metal housing. Air escapes by upward and outward extraction, such as through a “break in the home envelope.” In addition to ventilation losses, the metal housing can contribute to heat transfer losses. This loss can occur when the temperature of the metal differs from the conditioned air temperature and heat is exchanged across the metal surfaces.

[0006] In more tightly sealed homes, for example, when there are holes in the drywall, those holes need to be sealed, and users may try to seal them with paint or by applying a specific sealant to the drywall. Such damage or penetration in the drywall leads to increased energy consumption and costs. Users with recessed canned lights have attempted to use foam padding around the baffle, which allows air to seep from the conditioned space into the unconditioned space. However, these methods have proven ineffective. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, a ventilation fan adjustment ring is provided, the adjustment ring comprising: a base having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a wall extending from the base in a first direction; an opening defined by a recess in the base; and at least one groove defined by a slot in the base. The wall may define an internal space of the base. The opening may be arranged in the internal space of the base. The recess in the base may extend in the first direction.

[0008] In some embodiments, the base of the adjustment ring may be configured to extend beyond the edge of an opening in the dry wall, ceiling, or other wall material, wherein the ventilation fan adjustment ring is configured to be installed in the opening.

[0009] In some embodiments, a groove in the base may extend from a second surface of the base along a first direction. Each groove may have an inlet end and an outlet end. Each groove may define: a first stage portion located at the inlet end of the groove, having an opposing wall parallel to the longitudinal axis of the groove; a second stage portion adjacent to the first stage portion and opposite to the inlet end of the groove, having an opposing wall inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the groove; and a third stage portion located at the outlet end of the groove and adjacent to the second stage portion, having an opposing wall parallel to the longitudinal axis of the groove. Each of at least one groove may have a first opening and a second opening opposite to the first opening. The first opening may be integrally formed in a first surface of the base. The at least one groove may include two grooves arranged on opposite sides of the base. Each groove of the at least one groove may be configured to receive one or more spring clips therein. The at least one groove may be located within an interior space of the base.

[0010] In some embodiments, the wall may include a first wall portion, a second wall portion, a third wall portion, and a fourth wall portion. The first wall portion may be parallel to the second wall portion. The third wall portion may be parallel to the fourth wall portion. The first and second wall portions may be transverse to the third and fourth wall portions. The first, second, third, and fourth wall portions may form a continuous polygonal shape.

[0011] In another embodiment, the ventilation fan assembly may include: a ventilation fan having a housing; an adjustment ring including a base removably coupled to the interior of the housing; and a shield coupled to the adjustment ring and substantially covering the housing and the adjustment ring. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 A front-view perspective view of a conventional ventilation fan is shown.

[0013] Figure 2 An internal perspective view of an adjustment ring cover for a ventilation fan according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The external perspective view of the adjustment ring cover is shown.

[0015] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring cover is shown.

[0016] Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 2 The adjustment ring cover shown is connected to a ventilation fan system located in a drywall ceiling or subfloor.

[0017] Figure 6An exploded view of the ventilation fan system of this application is shown, the ventilation fan system including Figure 2 The adjusting ring cover is shown.

[0018] Figure 7 The assembled Figure 6 Front view of the ventilation fan system shown.

[0019] Figure 8 The first step of installing the adjusting ring cover for the ventilation fan is shown. Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring cover is shown.

[0020] Figure 9 The second step of installing the adjusting ring cover for the ventilation fan is shown. Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring cover is shown.

[0021] Figure 10 This shows the third step during the installation of the adjusting ring cover for the ventilation fan. Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring cover is shown.

[0022] Figure 11 The image shows the result after installing the adjusting ring cover for the ventilation fan. Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring cover is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0023] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that implementations can be carried out without one or more of these specific details, or using other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures associated with exhaust fans, ventilation fans, fan motors, and other ventilation system components are not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments.

[0024] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and the subsequent claims, the word “comprising” and its variations, such as “comprises” and “comprising”, shall be interpreted in an open, inclusive sense, meaning “including, but not limited to”.

[0025] First refer to Figure 1 The figure shows a conventional ventilation fan 100 known in the art, which is mounted to a ceiling, drywall, or subfloor 119. Ventilation fans 100 are typically installed within a building structure to ventilate residential or commercial spaces. Figure 1The ventilation fan 100 is installed in the dry wall 119 using conventional installation methods, wherein the ventilation fan 100 is located in an opening or hole in the dry wall 119, such that part of the ventilation fan is exposed and part of it protrudes and / or extends into the wall space or attic space 107. The ventilation fan 100 includes a grille 105 that serves as a cover for the ventilation fan 100.

[0026] The ventilation fan 100 includes a canister or housing 123 extending into the attic space 107, and a portion including a grille 105 adjacent to the surface of the dry wall 119 (shown translucently for illustrative purposes). Figure 1 (Grate 105 in the image). The housing 123 may be metal. Ventilation fans are typically equipped with a metal housing constructed around the fan. The metal housing 123 is configured with mounting brackets (not shown) and multiple openings on one or more surfaces of the metal housing 123.

[0027] The metal housing 123 includes a fan motor (not shown) fixed inside the metal housing 123. A grille 105 is arranged on the front of the ventilation fan 100 to conceal the motor for aesthetic reasons. However, in this configuration and design of the ventilation fan 100 and grille 105, several perforations exist in both the external components and internal parts of the ventilation fan 100. Airflow or air leakage within the building structure, such as vents and ineffective seals around the openings, can further cause airflow to leak from the metal housing openings or other openings in the metal housing, which may be parts of mounting systems or electrical outlets, such as wiring perforations. For example, airflow 103 may flow through a crack where the grille 105 meets the dry wall 119, or it may escape directly from an opening in the metal housing, as indicated by arrow 103, flowing through the grille 105, through the crack between the grille 105 and the dry wall 119, or directly from the metal housing 123 into the attic space 107.

[0028] According to this disclosure, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The image shows a ventilation fan adjustment ring 200 for a ventilation fan 204 according to an exemplary embodiment. The adjustment ring 200 is designed to minimize air loss from conditioned air in the room to unconditioned air in the attic and ground floor, such air loss being... Figure 1 The conventional ventilation fan shown is continuous. The adjustment ring 200 typically includes a ventilation fan cover, which, when integrated with a ventilation fan / ventilation system, improves the ability to seal and cut off airflow drafting and heat exchange losses. For example, the inventors conducted tests to determine the amount of air loss that occurs when the adjustment ring 200 is attached to the ventilation fan. Test results showed that, when used in conjunction with a ventilation fan, the adjustment ring 200 reduces air loss by 75%.

[0029] The adjustment ring 200 is configured to have a generally flat base 206 having a first side or first surface 201 and a second side or first surface 202. The first surface 201 of the adjustment ring 200 is exposed to the adjustment area or room, while the second surface 202 is exposed to the attic space 107. The base 206 of the adjustment ring 200 is configured to mate with a dry wall 119 such that the first surface 201 of the base 206 extends beyond one or more edges 120 of the dry wall 119, in which openings or holes are provided for housing the ventilation fan 200. This extension of the base 206, more specifically the extension of the first surface 201, is advantageous because the excessive extension through one or more edges 120 of the dry wall prevents unwanted air loss that might flow across the edges of the dry wall and / or the ventilation fan, as is commonly seen in conventional ventilation fan designs. By extending the adjusting ring 200 beyond one or more edges 120 and into the dry wall 119, a type of seal is created that allows air to flow only into the central opening, such as into a ventilation fan, and air to flow only out of the ventilation duct. In other words, the adjusting ring 200 controls and mitigates air loss.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, the second surface 202 of the base 206 includes a wall 203 positioned at an edge remote from the base 206. The wall 203 extends around the base 206 of the adjustment ring 200 and integrally forms a first side 203a, a second side 203b, a third side 203c, and a fourth side 203d. However, in some embodiments, the wall 203 may be configured in different ways and / or may be positioned or attached to the base 206 in an alternative manner. In this embodiment, the wall 203 extends vertically along a first direction D1, remote from the base 206 of the adjustment ring 200, and together with the base defines an internal space 208 of the adjustment ring 200. The wall 203 is configured to surround or close an opening in the dry wall 119 such that the internal space 208 completely occupies any remaining free space within the opening in the dry wall between the adjusted and unadjusted spaces, thereby effectively sealing any additional potential gaps and crevices to prevent air loss.

[0031] The adjusting ring 200 also includes a concave opening 215 located in an internal space 208 between a plurality of walls 203. The opening 215 may be centrally positioned in the internal space 208, but such central positioning is not required. The opening 215 is formed by one or more chamfered or angled walls 213 extending in a first direction (in... Figure 3 (Most clearly shown) defines the opening 215, which terminates in the annulus or edge 211 configured to assemble the ventilation fan. In some embodiments, the size and structure of the opening 215 may vary and may be determined by the size of the ventilation fan, the ventilation system, or other relevant factors deemed necessary by the manufacturer and / or user. The wall 203 may be closer to the concave opening 215 than the edge of the base 206.

[0032] The adjusting ring 200 also includes a pair of slots or spring slots 205 on two opposite sides of the concave opening 215. A portion of each spring slot 205 is inserted between the concave opening 215 on the second surface 202 of the wall 203 and the base 206. Each spring slot 205 is configured to receive a spring clip that engages the cover 221 to the adjusting ring 200, as will be described in more detail below. Although two spring slots 205 are shown in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, any number of spring slots 205 can be used.

[0033] Each spring slot 205 is connected to the base 206 of the adjusting ring 200 and configured in a chimney-like structure. The chimney-like structure includes a straight portion and an angled portion. This configuration allows the user to directly insert the spring clip into the spring slot 205 on one side to move to the next spring clip on the other side, without having to hold the first spring on the first side, then push the cover upward to snap the spring clip into place, and connect the cover 221 to the adjusting ring 200.

[0034] Each corresponding spring slot 205 includes an inner slot opening 207 and an outer slot opening 209. This configuration of the spring slot 205 also allows for easy access during the installation of the ventilation fan. For example, in reference... Figure 1 During the installation of the ventilation fan 100, as described, the user blindly places the spring clip into the housing to find the hole or slot inside the metal can. In this disclosure, the spring slot 205, the inner slot opening 207, and the outer slot opening 209 are advantageously positioned on the first surface 201 of the adjusting ring 200, as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0035] Additionally, the spring groove 205 can be used to guide the spring clip 223 (e.g. Figures 8 to 11 (As shown) passes through it. Each corresponding spring clip 223 can extend from the cover 221. After passing through the corresponding spring slot 205, the corresponding spring clip 223 can be coupled to the spring clip receiver 224 of the housing 123 (as shown). Figure 6 (As shown). The spring clip receiver 224 may be located within the interior space of the housing 123. The spring clip receiver 224 may include at least one orifice configured to receive the portion of the corresponding spring clip 223 passing through the orifice. When the adjusting ring 200 is installed, the spring clip receiver 224, in particular its at least one orifice, may be positioned against the inner groove opening 207 of the corresponding spring groove 205.

[0036] Figure 4 It shows along Figure 2 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the adjusting ring 200 taken by line 4-4, illustrating the internal structure of the spring groove 205. The spring groove 205 can define multiple stages within its interior 225. Figure 4In the embodiment shown, the spring grooves 205 each define a first stage portion 227, a second stage portion 229, and a third stage portion 231.

[0037] The first stage portion 227 is adjacent to the outer groove opening 209 of the spring groove 205. In other words, the first stage portion 227 may be located at the inlet end of the spring groove 205. The first stage portion 227 includes opposing walls 233 that at least partially define the interior 235 of the first stage portion 227. The opposing walls 233 of the first stage portion 227 may be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A1 of the spring groove 205.

[0038] The second stage portion 229 is positioned adjacent to the first stage portion 227 and opposite to the outer groove opening 209 of the spring groove 205. The second stage portion 229 includes opposing walls 237 that at least partially define the interior 239 of the second stage portion 229. The opposing walls 237 may be substantially inclined relative to the longitudinal axis A1 of the spring groove 205. Specifically, the opposing walls 237 may be angled relative to each other such that the distance D2 between opposing walls 237 adjacent to the first stage portion 227 is greater than the distance D3 between opposing walls 237 at opposite ends of the second stage portion 229. In other words, the interior 239 of the second stage portion 229 between the opposing walls 237 may narrow with increasing distance from the first stage portion 227. The opposing walls 237 of the second stage portion 229 may form a continuous structure with the opposing walls 233 of the first stage portion 227.

[0039] The third stage portion 231 is positioned adjacent to the second stage portion 229 and opposite to the first stage portion 227. The third stage portion 231 may have opposing walls 241 that at least partially define the interior 243 of the third stage portion 231. The opposing walls 241 of the third stage portion 231 may be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A1 of the spring groove 205. The opposing walls 241 of the third stage portion 231 may form a continuous structure with the opposing walls 237 of the second stage portion 229.

[0040] In the embodiment shown, when the spring groove 205 comprises three stage portions, the third stage portion 231 may be adjacent to the inner groove opening 207 of the spring groove 205. In other words, the third stage portion 231 may be on the outlet end of the spring groove 205. The spring groove 205 may also include any additional number of portions. Preferably, the spring groove 205 comprises an odd number of portions. Preferably, the portions of the spring groove 205 alternate between having parallel opposing walls and inclined opposing walls, wherein the parallel opposing walls are as shown in the first stage portion 227 and the third stage portion 231, and the inclined opposing walls are as shown in the second stage portion 229.

[0041] The spring groove 205 extends along a first direction D1 and is configured to mate with a spring clip receiver (not shown) within the metal housing 123. For example, when the adjusting ring 200 is installed, the groove opening 207 may be adjacent to the spring clip receiver within the metal housing 123. The spring groove 205 slightly protrudes or extends beyond the plurality of walls 203. The length of the spring groove 205 can be configured in various sizes depending on the construction of the ventilation fan and ventilation system, the ceiling width, and other factors.

[0042] One or more chamfered portions 212 are provided on the first surface 201 to further provide a connection mechanism for the cover 221. The one or more chamfered portions 212 may be provided around the outer edge of the first surface 201.

[0043] Figure 5 A front top view of the ventilation fan system 204 is shown. The specifications and dimensions of the ventilation fan system 204 can vary depending on various factors, and therefore may differ in specifications and / or shape from those of other systems. Figure 5 The ventilation fan system 204 differs from the description. It includes a ventilation fan adjustment ring 200 connected to the metal housing 123, with a base 206 extending beyond the dry wall opening such that the entire outer edge of the base 206 partially overlaps with the dry wall 119. Ventilation fan blades 243 can be centrally positioned within a concave opening 215 of the adjustment ring 200. The attic space 107 accommodates the metal housing 123 of the ventilation fan system 204. As previously described, because the base 206 of the adjustment ring 200 extends beyond the edge of the dry wall opening and onto the surface of the dry wall 119, significant air loss that might occur through the ventilation fan, the metal housing 123, or the dry wall 119 itself can be prevented or reduced.

[0044] Special Reference Figure 6 The figure shows an exploded view of a ventilation fan system 204, which includes an adjustment ring cover or shield 221 covering an adjustment ring 200. The shield 221 may include a plurality of fasteners 245, such as bushings, pins, or screws, which are inserted into chamfered holes 212 on a first surface 201 of the adjustment ring 200, thereby further providing a simplified process for attaching the shield 221 to the adjustment ring 200. The shield 221 can be spaced apart from the adjustment ring 200 when the plurality of fasteners 245 of the shield 221 are received in the chamfered holes 212 of the adjustment ring 200. In addition to preventing air loss, the shield 221 also contributes to improving the aesthetic appearance of the ventilation fan system 204.

[0045] The adjusting ring 200 is connected to the metal housing 123 via a spring clip 223 extending from the cover 221, the spring clip 223 being inserted through a spring groove 205. (Refer to the following...) Figures 8 to 11 The method of inserting spring clip 223 through spring groove 205 is described.

[0046] The spring groove 205 can be positioned on the opposite side of the concave opening 215 and adjacent to a plurality of walls 203, such that the concave opening 215 can mate with the fan blades 243 of the fan, and the walls 203 mate around the metal housing 123. This connection configuration of the adjusting ring 200 and the metal housing 123 also helps to prevent air loss from the regulated area to the unregulated area. For example, each external opening 209 in the spring groove 205 can be integrally formed within the adjusting ring 200, while advantageously arranged on the outer first surface 201 of the adjusting ring 200, separate from the metal housing 123, and entirely external.

[0047] Figure 7 A ventilation fan system 204 in an assembled configuration is shown. The ventilation fan system 204 includes an adjustment ring 200 and an adjustment ring cover 221. The ventilation fan system 204 may also include a ventilation duct 249 projecting from the side of a metal housing 123. A portion of the aforementioned vertical wall 203 includes cutouts configured to mate with the contours of the duct 249. The cutout portion of the vertical wall 203 may be on any other side as needed to conform to the specifications and construction of the duct 249 connected to the metal housing 123.

[0048] The following is for reference. Figures 8 to 11 The method of inserting spring clip 223 through spring slot 205 during the installation of cover 221 is described. Figures 8 to 11 Cross-sectional views of the adjusting ring 200 and the guard 221 are shown at different stages of the insertion of the spring clip 223 through the spring groove 205. During this installation process, the housing 123 will be present near the adjusting ring 200, but it is not shown in the figure for clarity.

[0049] In the first step of installing the protective cover 221 to the metal housing 123, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can be clamped. Next, as... Figure 8 As shown, the clamping first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can be inserted into the first stage portion 227 of the spring groove 205 through the outer groove opening 209. When present in the first stage portion 227, the clamping first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can be partially extended, such that the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 contacts the opposing wall 233 of the first stage portion 227. In this position, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 cannot be fully extended due to the position of the opposing wall 233. In addition, the outward pressure exerted on the opposing wall 233 by the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 allows the spring clip 223 to be held in this position even without additional force from the user to hold the spring clip 223 in this position.

[0050] Then, as Figure 9As shown, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can advance into and pass through the second stage portion 229 of the spring groove 205. While in the second stage portion 229 of the spring groove 205, as the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 advances further into the second stage portion 229, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is further clamped by the opposing wall 237 of the second stage portion 229. This further clamping is due to the narrowing of the opposing wall 237 of the second stage portion 229 and the contact of the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 with the opposing wall 237 of the second stage portion 229. This further clamping of the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 greatly simplifies the installation of the cover 221, as the user does not need to clamp the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 to advance it. Additionally, the spring groove 205 ensures that the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is clamped to a degree sufficient to attach the cover 221 to the metal housing 123.

[0051] In the next step, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can advance into the third stage portion 231 of the spring groove 205, as follows: Figure 10 As shown. In this position, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 cannot fully extend due to the position of the opposing wall 241. In addition, the outward pressure exerted by the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 on the opposing wall 241 allows the spring clip 223 to be held in this position even without any additional force from the user to hold the spring clip 223 in this position.

[0052] At this stage, it may not be necessary to extend the first end 251 of the clamping spring clip 223 further, at least partially, to the short distance D3 between the opposing walls 241 of the third stage portion 231 to complete the installation of the shield 221. When the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is located in the third stage portion 231 and held in place by the opposing walls 241 interacting with the first end 251 of the spring clip 223, the user has the opportunity to adjust their hand so that it is not positioned between the shield 221 and the metal housing 123. For example, the user can place their hand in a position that allows them to push the shield 221 into the installed position, such as on the exposed side 253 of the shield 221.

[0053] To complete the installation, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 advances beyond the inner groove opening 207 of the spring groove 205, as shown. Figure 11As shown. The first end 251 of the spring clip 223 can be advanced, for example, by a user pushing against the exposed side 253 of the cover 221. When the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 advances beyond the inner groove opening 207 of the spring groove 205, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 expands because the opposing wall 241 of the third stage portion 231 no longer prevents this expansion. Specifically, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 extends into the spring clip receiver 224 of the metal housing 123, beyond the inner groove opening 207 of the spring groove 205. When the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 extends into the spring clip receiver 224, the central portion 257 of the spring clip 223 can contact the opposing wall 241 of the third stage portion 231 and / or the structure of the housing 123. The outward force applied by the central portion 257 of the spring clip 223 connects the cover 221 to the metal housing 123.

[0054] Shield 221 can also be from Figure 11 Remove the mounting position shown. To remove the cover 221 from the metal housing 123, the user first pulls the cover 221 off the metal housing 123 until the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is in the third stage portion 231, as shown. Figure 10 As shown. In this position, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 engages with the opposing wall 241 of the third stage portion 231, allowing the user to adjust their hand to complete the removal process.

[0055] Next, the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is clamped, which releases the contact between the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 and the opposing wall 241 of the third stage portion 231. Then, while the first end 251 of the spring clip 223 is clamped, the cover 221 can be pulled away from the metal housing 123, which removes the cover 221 from the metal housing.

[0056] The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. All U.S. patents, U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications, foreign patents, foreign patent applications and non-patent publications mentioned in the specification and / or listed in the application data sheets are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. If necessary, aspects of the embodiments can be modified to incorporate the concepts of various patents, applications and publications to provide additional embodiments.

[0057] Based on the detailed description above, these and other changes can be made to the embodiments. Generally, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be interpreted to include all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents conferred by these claims. Therefore, the claims are not limited to this disclosure.

Claims

1. A register for a ventilation fan, comprising: a base having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a wall extending from the base in a first direction, the wall defining an interior space of the base; an opening defined by a recess of the base disposed in the interior space of the base, the recess of the base extending in the first direction; and at least one slot defined by a slot portion of the base. The base of the register for a ventilation fan is configured to extend beyond an edge of an opening in a drywall, ceiling, or other wall material, the register for a ventilation fan configured to be installed in the opening in the drywall, ceiling, or other wall material.

2. The vent fan adjustment ring of claim 1, wherein, The wall on the second surface of the base is closer to the opening than an outer edge of the base.

3. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The slot portion of the base extends from a second surface of the base in the first direction, 4. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, wherein each slot has an inlet end and an outlet end, each slot defining: a first stage portion at the inlet end of the slot, the first stage portion having opposing walls parallel to a longitudinal axis of the slot; a second stage portion adjacent the first stage portion, opposite the inlet end of the slot, the second stage portion having opposing walls inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the slot; and a third stage portion adjacent the second stage portion at the outlet end of the slot, the third stage portion having opposing walls parallel to the longitudinal axis of the slot. Each slot of the at least one slot has a first opening and a second opening opposite the first opening, wherein the first opening is integrally formed in the first surface of the base.

5. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The base includes a rim extending around a perimeter of the opening.

6. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The opening is configured to receive a portion of a ventilation fan.

7. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The at least one slot includes two slots disposed on opposite sides of the base.

8. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, Each slot of the at least one slot is configured to house one or more spring clips therein.

9. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The at least one slot is located in the interior space of the base.

10. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The slot portion of the base extends further in the first direction than the wall.

11. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, The register for a ventilation fan is configured to be coupled to a shroud by a connector extending through the at least one slot.

12. The vent fan adjustment ring of claim 1, wherein, The wall includes a first wall portion, a second wall portion, a third wall portion, and a fourth wall portion, 13. The vent fan trim ring of claim 1, wherein, wherein the first wall portion is parallel to the second wall portion, wherein the third wall portion is parallel to the fourth wall portion, wherein the first wall portion and the second wall portion are transverse to the third wall portion and the fourth wall portion. The first wall portion, the second wall portion, the third wall portion, and the fourth wall portion form a continuous polygonal shape.

14. The vent fan adjustment ring of claim 13, wherein, 15. A ventilation fan assembly, comprising: a ventilation fan having a housing; a register including a base removably coupled to an interior of the housing; and a shroud coupled to the register and substantially covering the housing and the register. The register includes a slot configured to receive a connection device of the shroud, the connection device passing through the slot, the connection device configured to couple the shroud to the register. ​ 16. The vent fan assembly of claim 15, wherein, ​ 17. The vent fan assembly of claim 15, wherein, The vent fan assembly is configured such that when the width of the first end of the spring clip expands to be greater than the distance between the opposing walls of the outlet end of the slot, the end of the connecting device enters the interior of the housing.

18. The vent fan assembly of claim 15, wherein, The adjustment collar includes an opening configured to receive a component from the vent fan.

19. The vent fan assembly of claim 15, wherein, The shroud is spaced apart from the adjustment collar.

20. The vent fan assembly of claim 19, wherein, The shroud is spaced apart from the adjustment collar by a fastener extending from the shroud, and wherein the adjustment collar is configured to house the fastener in a surface of the adjustment collar.

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