Air distribution nozzle, aircraft including an air distribution nozzle, and method of utilizing an air distribution nozzle

Abstract

To provide improved air distribution nozzles, an aircraft that includes the improved air distribution nozzles, and / or methods of utilizing the improved air distribution nozzles.SOLUTION: The air distribution nozzles include an elongate inlet chamber, an elongate outlet chamber, a tapered elongate slot, an inlet port into the elongate inlet chamber, and an elongate outlet port from the elongate outlet chamber. The elongate inlet chamber extends along an inlet chamber length. The elongate outlet chamber extends along the inlet chamber length. The tapered elongate slot extends between, and fluidly interconnects, the elongate inlet chamber and the elongate outlet chamber. The inlet port is configured to receive an inlet fluid flow along an inlet flow axis. The elongate outlet port is configured to discharge an outlet fluid flow along an outlet flow axis that is oriented at a skew angle relative to the inlet flow axis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to air distribution nozzles, aircraft including air distribution nozzles, and / or methods of utilizing air distribution nozzles. [Background technology]

[0002] Distribution nozzles can control, direct, and / or regulate the flow of a fluid, such as air, and can be used in a variety of applications. As one example, an air distribution nozzle can be used to form and / or define an air curtain, e.g., to enable and / or facilitate different environmental control for each side of the air curtain. As another example, an air distribution nozzle can be used to regulate airflow within an aircraft. In a particular example, an air distribution nozzle can be used to form and / or define an air curtain within an aircraft cockpit, to enable and / or facilitate independent environmental control for the pilot and co-pilot seating areas of the aircraft. Conventional air distribution nozzles are relatively complex, utilize a significant number of separately manufactured and subsequently assembled parts, and / or are relatively expensive. Therefore, a need exists for improved air distribution nozzles, as well as aircraft including improved air distribution nozzles and / or improved methods of utilizing improved air distribution nozzles. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] Disclosed herein are air distribution nozzles, aircraft including the air distribution nozzles, and / or methods utilizing the air distribution nozzles. The air distribution nozzle includes an elongated inlet chamber, an elongated outlet chamber, a tapered elongated slot, an inlet port to the elongated inlet chamber, and an elongated outlet port from the elongated outlet chamber. The elongated inlet chamber extends along the inlet chamber length. The elongated outlet chamber extends along the inlet chamber length. The tapered elongated slot extends between the elongated inlet chamber and the elongated outlet chamber and fluidly interconnects the elongated inlet chamber and the elongated outlet chamber. The inlet port is configured to receive an inlet fluid flow in an inlet flow direction along an inlet flow axis. The elongated outlet port is configured to discharge an outlet fluid flow in an outlet flow direction along an outlet flow axis. The outlet flow axis is oriented at a skew angle with respect to the inlet flow axis.

[0004] The aircraft includes an air distribution nozzle and an air supply conduit providing an inlet fluid stream to an inlet port. The method includes providing the inlet fluid stream through the inlet port along an inlet flow direction into an elongated inlet chamber. The method further includes changing a direction of the inlet fluid stream within the elongated inlet chamber. The changing of direction includes changing the direction to generate a slot fluid stream that flows through a tapered elongated slot into an elongated outlet chamber. The method further includes generating a pair of counter-rotating vortices within the slot fluid stream in the elongated outlet chamber. The method further includes discharging the outlet fluid stream from the elongated outlet port along the outlet flow direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example aircraft that may include and / or utilize an air distribution nozzle according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example air distribution nozzle according to the present disclosure; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a somewhat more detailed side view of an example air distribution nozzle according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a left end view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a right end view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 3. [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of FIG. 3 taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] 1-9 provide illustrative, but non-limiting, examples of air distribution nozzles 100, aircraft 10, and / or methods according to the present disclosure. Elements serving similar or at least substantially similar purposes are labeled with similar numbers in each of FIGS. 1-9, and these elements may not be described in detail herein with reference to each of FIGS. 1-9. Similarly, not all elements may be labeled in each of FIGS. 1-9, but their associated reference numbers may be used consistently herein. Elements, components, and / or features described herein with reference to one or more of FIGS. 1-9 may be included in and / or utilized in any of FIGS. 1-9 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0007] In general, elements that are likely to be included in a given (i.e., particular) embodiment are shown with solid lines, and elements that are optional for a given embodiment are shown with dashed lines. However, elements shown with solid lines are not required for all embodiments, and elements shown with solid lines may be omitted from particular embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0008] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example aircraft 10 that may include and / or utilize an air distribution nozzle 100 in accordance with the present disclosure. The aircraft 10 may further include an air supply conduit 30 that may be configured to provide an inlet fluid flow 70 to the air distribution nozzle 100. The air distribution nozzle 100 in accordance with the present disclosure may be configured to control, direct, and / or regulate fluid or air flow within the aircraft 10 in any suitable manner. Examples of air distribution nozzles 100 are disclosed herein.

[0009] As an example, the air distribution nozzle 100 may be disposed within the cockpit 20 of the aircraft 10. In some such examples, the air distribution nozzle 100 may be configured to generate an outlet fluid flow 90 that may function as an air curtain 98. In some examples, the air curtain 98 may flow between the pilot seating area 12 and the co-pilot seating area 14 of the aircraft 10, for example, to allow, facilitate, and / or enable independent environmental control between the pilot and co-pilot seating areas. In other words, the air curtain 98 may enable independent adjustment of the pilot environmental controls 13 and the co-pilot environmental controls 15 by restricting the air flow between the pilot seating area 12 and the co-pilot seating area 14, for example, so that the body temperature of the pilot in the pilot seating area 12 may be maintained at a different temperature than and / or independent from the body temperature of the co-pilot in the co-pilot seating area 14. In some examples, the air curtain 98 can reduce the possibility of cross-contamination between the pilot seating area 12 and the co-pilot seating area 14. In other words, the air curtain 98 can reduce the flow of airborne contaminants between the pilot seating area 12 and the co-pilot seating area 14 by entraining the airborne contaminants, such as particulate matter, bacteria, and / or viruses, in the flow.

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an example air distribution nozzle 100 according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a somewhat more detailed side view of an example air distribution nozzle 100 according to the present disclosure, while Figures 4-9 provide additional views of the air distribution nozzle 100 of Figure 3. More specifically, Figure 4 is a bottom view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3, Figure 5 is a left end view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3, Figure 6 is a right end view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3, Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3 taken along line 7-7 of Figure 3, Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3 taken along line 8-8 of Figure 3, and Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution nozzle of Figure 3 taken along line 9-9 of Figure 5.

[0011] The air distribution nozzle 100 of Figures 2-9 may include and / or be a more detailed view of the air distribution nozzle 100 of Figure 1. With this in mind, any of the structure, functions, and / or features of the air distribution nozzle 100 of Figures 2-9 may be included in and / or utilized in the aircraft 10 and / or its air distribution nozzle 100 of Figure 1 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Likewise, any of the structure, functions, and / or features of the aircraft 10 of Figure 1 may be utilized in the air distribution nozzle 100 of Figures 2-9 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] As shown in Figure 2 and cooperatively illustrated by Figures 3-9, the air distribution nozzle 100 includes an elongated inlet chamber 150 and an elongated outlet chamber 170. The elongated inlet chamber 150 extends along an inlet chamber length 152, as shown in Figure 2, and the elongated outlet chamber 170 extends along the inlet chamber length, or alternatively, along the inlet chamber length. Additionally, the air distribution nozzle 100 includes a tapered, elongated slot 190. The tapered, elongated slot 190 extends between the elongated inlet chamber 150 and the elongated outlet chamber 170 and fluidly interconnects the elongated inlet chamber 150 and the elongated outlet chamber 170.

[0013] The air distribution nozzle 100 further includes an inlet port 220 into the elongated inlet chamber 150 and an elongated outlet port 230 from the elongated outlet chamber 170. The inlet port 220 is configured to accept the inlet fluid flow 70 along an inlet flow axis 72 and / or in an inlet flow direction (as indicated by the arrow of the inlet fluid flow 70). The elongated outlet port 230 is configured to discharge the outlet fluid flow 90 along an outlet flow axis 92 and / or in an outlet flow direction (as indicated by the arrow of the outlet fluid flow 90). The outlet flow axis 92 is oriented at a skew angle 96 with respect to the inlet flow axis 72. In other words, the inlet flow direction may be referred to herein as being at a skew angle 96 with respect to the outlet flow direction.

[0014] During operation of the air distribution nozzle 100 and / or the aircraft 10 including the air distribution nozzle 100, the inlet fluid flow 70 may be provided through the inlet port 220 in an inlet flow direction and / or along the inlet flow axis 72 into the elongated inlet chamber 150. This may include providing the inlet fluid flow 70 through the air supply conduit 30 of FIG. 1 . The inlet fluid flow 70 may be redirected in the elongated inlet chamber 150 to generate a slot fluid flow 206 that flows through the tapered elongated slot 190 and / or into the elongated outlet chamber 170. Within the elongated outlet chamber 170, a pair of counter-rotating vortices 80 may be generated from and / or within the slot fluid flow 206. An outlet fluid flow 90, which may be generated from the counter-rotating vortices 80, may then be discharged from the elongated outlet port 230 along the outlet flow axis 92 and / or in the outlet flow direction. The creation of counter-rotating vortices 80 can improve the uniformity, improve the straightness, and / or improve the laminar nature of the exit fluid stream 90. In other words, the air distribution nozzle 100 can discharge a straight exit fluid stream 90 and / or a laminar exit fluid stream 90. Such a configuration can make the exit fluid stream 90 suitable for particular applications, such as an air curtain 98, as described in more detail herein.

[0015] With the above in mind, the air distribution nozzle 100 may be referred to herein as being configured to redirect the outlet fluid stream 90 from an inlet flow direction to an outlet flow direction, for example, to create and / or generate the inlet fluid stream 70. The redirection may be such that the outlet fluid stream 90 is uniform or at least substantially uniform along the outlet port length 232 of the elongated outlet port 230, the outlet fluid stream is laminar, and / or the outlet fluid stream is at least substantially uniformly directed in the outlet flow direction. Additionally or alternatively, the redirection may be such that the outlet flow direction is oriented at a skew angle relative to the inlet flow direction.

[0016] The inlet flow axis 72 can have and / or be defined in any suitable orientation or relative orientation. As one example, the inlet flow axis 72 can be perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a cross-section, a transverse cross-section, and / or a surface extending across the inlet opening 226 of the inlet port 220. As another example, the inlet flow axis 72 can be parallel or at least substantially parallel to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154 of the elongated inlet chamber 150, as shown in FIG. 2 .

[0017] The outlet flow axis 92 can have and / or be defined in any suitable orientation or relative orientation. As one example, the outlet flow axis 92 can be perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a cross-section, a transverse cross-section, and / or a surface extending across the outlet opening 236 of the elongated outlet port 230. As another example, the outlet flow axis 92 can be perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 of the elongated outlet port 230.

[0018] Skew angle 96 can include any suitable angle between inlet flow axis 72 and outlet flow axis 92 and / or can be any suitable angle between inlet flow axis 72 and outlet flow axis 92. By way of example, skew angle 96 can be at least 45 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 55 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, at least 75 degrees, at least 80 degrees, at least 85 degrees, at least 90 degrees, up to 135 degrees, up to 130 degrees, up to 125 degrees, up to 120 degrees, up to 115 degrees, up to 110 degrees, up to 105 degrees, up to 100 degrees, up to 95 degrees, and / or up to 90 degrees. In certain examples, skew angle 96 can be equal to 90 degrees or at least substantially equal to 90 degrees.

[0019] The inlet port 220 can have and / or be defined in any suitable shape, configuration, and / or form. As one example, the inlet port 220 can include and / or be a circular, at least partially circular, and / or at least substantially circular inlet port 220. As another example, the inlet port 220 can be shaped, sized, and / or oriented to direct the inlet fluid flow 70 along, or at least substantially along, the inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154. As yet another example, the cross-section of the inlet port 220, the transverse cross-section of the inlet port 220, and / or the inlet opening 226 can be perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154. Such a configuration can enhance the uniformity of the inlet fluid flow 70 into and / or within the elongated inlet chamber 150.

[0020] The elongated outlet port 230 can have and / or be defined in any suitable shape, configuration, and / or form. By way of example, the elongated outlet port 230 can include and / or may be a rectangular elongated outlet port 230, an at least substantially rectangular elongated outlet port 230, and / or a rectangular elongated outlet port 230 with rounded corners. In some examples, the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 can extend parallel or at least substantially parallel to the outlet chamber longitudinal axis 174 of the elongated outlet chamber 170.

[0021] As mentioned above, the tapered elongated slot 190 may be tapered. Such a configuration may increase the flow or flow rate uniformity of the slot fluid stream 206, for example, by increasing the flow uniformity along the tapered slot length 192 of the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0022] The tapered elongate slot 190 is tapered along its length 192 and can have and / or define any suitable shape, configuration, and / or structure that extends between and / or fluidly interconnects the elongate inlet chamber 150 and the elongate outlet chamber 170. In some examples, the tapered elongate slot 190 can extend or continuously between a first slot end 196 and a second slot end 200. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 2 , the tapered elongate slot 190 can include multiple slot segments 204. In such a configuration, each slot segment of the multiple slot segments can fluidly interconnect a given region of the elongate inlet chamber 150 with a corresponding region of the elongate outlet chamber 170.

[0023] The tapered elongated slot 190 may be tapered in any suitable manner. By way of example, and perhaps best shown in FIG. 4 , the tapered elongated slot 190 may define a first slot width 198 at a first slot end 196 and a second slot width 202 at a second slot end 200. The second slot width 202 may be different from the first slot width 198, and both the first slot width 198 and the second slot width 202 may be measured in a direction perpendicular to the elongated axis of the tapered elongated slot 190 or the tapered slot length 192. Additionally or alternatively, the first slot width 198 and / or the second slot width 202 may be measured in a direction perpendicular to the flow of the slot fluid stream 206 through the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0024] In some examples, as shown, the first slot end 196 can be located relatively close to the inlet port 220 and / or the second slot end 200 can be located relatively far from the inlet port 220. In some examples, the first slot width 198 can be greater than the second slot width 202. In some examples, the tapered elongated slot 190 can be tapered, monotonically tapered, linearly tapered, and / or arcuately tapered from the first slot width 198 to the second slot width 202 and / or between the first slot width 198 and the second slot width 202.

[0025] It is within the scope of the present disclosure that first slot width 198 may differ from second slot width 202 by any suitable amount and / or percentage. By way of example, the ratio of first slot width 198 to second slot width 202 may be at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at least 2.0, at most 4.0, at most 3.8, at most 3.6, at most 3.4, at most 3.2, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and / or at most 1.5.

[0026] Examples of first slot width 198 include widths of at least 1.5 millimeters (mm), at least 1.6 mm, at least 1.7 mm, at least 1.8 mm, at least 1.9 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 2.1 mm, at least 2.2 mm, at least 2.3 mm, at least 2.4 mm, up to 3 mm, up to 2.9 mm, up to 2.8 mm, up to 2.7 mm, up to 2.6 mm, up to 2.5 mm, up to 2.4 mm, up to 2.3 mm, up to 2.2 mm, up to 2.1 mm, and / or up to 2 mm. Examples of second slot width 202 include widths of at least 0.5 mm, at least 0.6 mm, at least 0.7 mm, at least 0.8 mm, at least 0.9 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.1 mm, at least 1.2 mm, at least 1.3 mm, at least 1.4 mm, up to 2 mm, up to 1.9 mm, up to 1.8 mm, up to 1.7 mm, up to 1.6 mm, up to 1.5 mm, up to 1.4 mm, up to 1.3 mm, up to 1.2 mm, up to 1.1 mm, and / or up to 1 mm.

[0027] The air distribution nozzle 100 and / or its components may have and / or define any suitable dimension and / or dimensions, for example, that may enable and / or facilitate operation and / or utilization of the air distribution nozzle at a target facility and / or in a desired manner. In some examples, the air distribution nozzle 100 may be utilized in a relatively space-constrained environment, such as an aircraft 10.

[0028] In some examples, the elongated inlet chamber 150 can have and / or define an inlet chamber length 152, as shown in FIG. 2. In some examples, the inlet chamber length 152 can be measured along an inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154 and / or can be the largest dimension of the elongated inlet chamber 150 measured along the inlet chamber longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the elongated outlet chamber 170 can have and / or define an outlet chamber length 172, also as shown in FIG. 2. In some examples, the outlet chamber length 172 can be measured along an outlet chamber longitudinal axis 174 and / or can be the largest dimension of the elongated outlet chamber 170 measured along the outlet chamber longitudinal axis.

[0029] In some examples, the inlet chamber length 152 can be different from or longer than the outlet chamber length 172. By way of example, the ratio of the inlet chamber length 152 to the outlet chamber length 172 can be at least 1.0, at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, at most 1.5, at most 1.4, at most 1.3, and / or at most 1.2. Examples of inlet chamber lengths 152 include lengths of at least 300 mm, at least 325 mm, at least 350 mm, at least 375 mm, at least 400 mm, at least 425 mm, at least 450 mm, at least 475 mm, at least 500 mm, up to 600 mm, up to 575 mm, up to 550 mm, up to 525 mm, up to 500 mm, up to 450 mm, up to 425 mm, and / or up to 400 mm.

[0030] In some examples, the elongated inlet chamber 150 has and / or can define an inlet chamber width or average inlet chamber width 160, perhaps as best shown in Figures 5 and 6. In some examples, the inlet chamber width 160 may be measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154, the inlet flow axis 72, the slot longitudinal axis 194 of the tapered elongated slot 190, and / or the inlet chamber length 152, perhaps as best shown in Figure 2. Additionally or alternatively, the elongated outlet chamber 170 has and / or can define an outlet chamber width or average outlet chamber width 180, perhaps also as best shown in Figures 5 and 6. In some examples, the outlet chamber width 180 may be measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the outlet chamber longitudinal axis 174, the outlet flow axis 92, the slot longitudinal axis 194, and / or the outlet chamber length 172, perhaps as best shown in Figure 2. Additionally or alternatively, outlet chamber width 180 may be measured parallel to inlet chamber width 160. Examples of inlet chamber width 160 and / or outlet chamber width 180 include widths of at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at most 75 mm, at most 70 mm, at most 65 mm, at most 60 mm, at most 55 mm, at most 50 mm, at most 45 mm, at most 40 mm, and / or at most 35 mm.

[0031] The air distribution nozzle 100 may have and / or define an overall nozzle height or average overall nozzle height 102, perhaps best shown in FIG. 2. In some examples, the overall nozzle height 102 may be measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis 154, the inlet chamber length 152, the outlet chamber longitudinal axis 174, the outlet chamber length 172, the inlet chamber width 160, the outlet chamber width 180, and / or the slot longitudinal axis 194. In some examples, the overall nozzle height 102 may be measured parallel or at least substantially parallel to the outlet flow axis 92. Examples of overall nozzle height 102 include heights of at least 75 mm, at least 80 mm, at least 85 mm, at least 90 mm, at least 95 mm, at least 100 mm, at least 105 mm, at least 110 mm, at least 115 mm, at least 120 mm, up to 150 mm, up to 145 mm, up to 140 mm, up to 135 mm, up to 130 mm, up to 125 mm, up to 120 mm, up to 115 mm, up to 110 mm, and / or up to 105 mm.

[0032] 2 , the elongated inlet chamber 150 can have and / or define an inlet chamber height 158. Additionally or alternatively, the elongated outlet chamber 170 can have and / or define an outlet chamber height 178. The inlet chamber height 158 ​​and the outlet chamber height 178 can each be a fraction or percentage, a different fraction or percentage, and / or a corresponding fraction or percentage of the overall nozzle height 102. Example fractions include at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at most 75%, at most 60%, at most 55%, at most 50%, at most 45%, at most 40%, at most 35%, at most 30%, and / or at most 25%.

[0033] The elongated inlet chamber 150 extends along the inlet chamber length 152 and may include any suitable structure, configuration, and / or arrangement capable of receiving the inlet fluid flow 70 from the inlet port 220 and / or providing the slotted fluid flow 206 to the elongated outlet chamber 170 via the tapered elongated slot 190. In some examples, the elongated inlet chamber 150 may be shaped to direct the inlet fluid flow 70 towards and / or into the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0034] In some examples, perhaps best shown by FIGS. 7 and 8 , the cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber 150 can decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber 150 can be located relatively close to the inlet port 220, while the minimum cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber can be located relatively far from the inlet port. In some such examples, the cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber 150 can decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber 150 can be a threshold inlet chamber area multiple of the minimum cross-sectional area 156 of the elongated inlet chamber. Examples of threshold inlet chamber area multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and / or at most 1.5. Such configurations can enhance flow or rate uniformity of the slot fluid stream 206, for example, by enhancing flow uniformity along the tapered slot length 192 of the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0035] In some examples, the inlet chamber height 158, sometimes referred to herein as the height of the elongated inlet chamber 150, may decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum value of the inlet chamber height 158, sometimes referred to herein as the maximum height of the elongated inlet chamber 150, may be at least a threshold inlet chamber height multiple of the minimum value of the inlet chamber height 158, sometimes referred to herein as the minimum height of the elongated inlet chamber. Examples of threshold inlet chamber height multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, up to 3.0, up to 2.9, up to 2.8, up to 2.7, up to 2.6, up to 2.5, up to 2.4, up to 2.3, up to 2.2, up to 2.1, up to 2.0, up to 1.9, up to 1.8, up to 1.7, up to 1.6, and up to 1.5. Such configurations can also enhance flow or rate uniformity of the slot fluid stream 206, for example, by enhancing flow uniformity along the tapered slot length 192 of the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0036] In some examples, the inlet chamber width 160, sometimes referred to herein as the width of the elongated inlet chamber 150, may decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum value of the inlet chamber width 160, sometimes referred to herein as the maximum width of the elongated inlet chamber 150, may be at least a threshold inlet chamber width multiple of the minimum value of the inlet chamber width 160, sometimes referred to herein as the minimum width of the elongated inlet chamber. Examples of threshold inlet chamber width multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5. Such configurations can also enhance flow or rate uniformity of the slot fluid stream 206, for example, by enhancing flow uniformity along the tapered slot length 192 of the tapered elongated slot 190.

[0037] The elongated outlet chamber 170 extends along the outlet chamber length 172 and may include any suitable structure, configuration, and / or arrangement capable of receiving the slot fluid stream 206 from the tapered elongated slot 190, generating a counter-rotating vortex 80, and / or discharging the outlet fluid stream 90, for example, via the elongated outlet port 230. In some examples, the elongated outlet chamber 170 may be shaped to generate a counter-rotating vortex 80 and / or direct the slot fluid stream 206 as the outlet fluid stream 90 to the elongated outlet port 230.

[0038] In some examples, perhaps best shown by FIGS. 7 and 8 , the cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber 170 can decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber 170 can be located relatively close to the inlet port 220, while the minimum cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber can be located relatively far from the inlet port. In some such examples, the cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber 170 can decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber 170 can be a threshold outlet chamber area multiple of the minimum cross-sectional area 176 of the elongated outlet chamber. Examples of threshold outlet chamber area multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and / or at most 1.5. Such configurations can enhance the flow or rate uniformity of the outlet fluid stream 90, for example, by enhancing the flow uniformity along the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 of the elongated outlet port 230.

[0039] In some examples, the outlet chamber height 178, sometimes referred to herein as the height of the elongated outlet chamber 170, may decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum value of the outlet chamber height 178, sometimes referred to herein as the maximum height of the elongated outlet chamber 170, may be at least a threshold outlet chamber height multiple of the minimum value of the outlet chamber height 178, sometimes referred to herein as the minimum height of the elongated outlet chamber. Examples of threshold outlet chamber height multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5. Such configurations can enhance the flow or rate uniformity of the outlet fluid stream 90, for example, by enhancing the flow uniformity along the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 of the elongated outlet port 230.

[0040] In some examples, the outlet chamber width 180, sometimes referred to herein as the width of the elongated outlet chamber 170, may decrease or monotonically decrease along the inlet flow axis 72 and / or in the inlet flow direction. In some such examples, the maximum value of the outlet chamber width 180, sometimes referred to herein as the maximum width of the elongated outlet chamber 170, may be at least a threshold outlet chamber width multiple of the minimum value of the outlet chamber width 180, sometimes referred to herein as the minimum width of the elongated outlet chamber. Examples of threshold outlet chamber width multiples include multiples of at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5. Such configurations can enhance the flow or rate uniformity of the outlet fluid stream 90, for example, by enhancing the flow uniformity along the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 of the elongated outlet port 230.

[0041] As shown by the dashed lines in Figure 2 and the solid lines in Figures 3-8, the air distribution nozzle 100 can include an elongated outlet structure 250. When present, the elongated outlet structure 250 can be configured to receive the outlet fluid flow 90 from the elongated outlet chamber 170 and / or to expel the outlet fluid flow from the air distribution nozzle 100.

[0042] In some examples, the elongated outlet structure 250 can define a diffuser mounting structure 252. The diffuser mounting structure 252, if present, can be adjusted, configured, shaped, and / or dimensioned to receive an air diffuser 254 and / or operably attach the air diffuser to the remainder of the air distribution nozzle 100. In some examples, the air distribution nozzle 100 further includes an air diffuser 254, which can be operably attached to the diffuser mounting structure 252. Examples of the diffuser mounting structure 252 include an area shaped to receive the air diffuser 254 and / or any suitable fastener. Examples of the air diffuser 254 include a screen, a grill, and / or a louver. The air diffuser 254, if present, can be configured to diffuse the outlet fluid flow 90 and / or provide backpressure to the elongated outlet chamber 170. Such a configuration may increase the flow or rate uniformity of the outlet fluid stream 90 by, for example, increasing the flow uniformity along the outlet port longitudinal axis 234 of the elongated outlet port 230 .

[0043] In some examples, the air distribution nozzle 100 can include a nozzle body 110. The nozzle body 110, if present, can define an elongated inlet chamber 150, an elongated outlet chamber 170, a tapered elongated slot 190, an inlet port 220, and / or an elongated outlet structure 250. In some such examples, the nozzle body 110 can include and / or be a monolithic or unitary nozzle body 110 that can be formed, for example, by an additive manufacturing process and / or defined by an additive manufacturing process. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 2 , the nozzle body 110 can include and / or be a composite nozzle body 110 that can be defined by at least two or only two body components 112 that can be operably attached to each other to define the nozzle body. In some examples, the body components 112 can be shaped to be mirror images or at least substantially mirror images of each other.

[0044] The nozzle body 110 may define the various components of the air distribution nozzle 100 in any suitable manner. By way of example, and perhaps best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the nozzle body 110 may include an upper region 114 that may define a top surface of the elongated inlet chamber 150. As another example, the nozzle body 110 may define a first inlet chamber lateral region 116 that may define a first side of the elongated inlet chamber 150 and / or a second inlet chamber lateral region 118 that may define a second side of the elongated inlet chamber. As yet another example, the nozzle body 110 may define a first inlet chamber transition region 120 that may transition from the upper region 114 to the first inlet chamber lateral region 116 and / or a second inlet chamber transition region 122 that may transition from the upper region 114 to the second inlet chamber lateral region 118.

[0045] As another example, the nozzle body 110 may define a first inlet chamber tapered region 124 that may taper from the first inlet chamber lateral region 116 to at least partially define a first side of the tapered elongated slot 190, and / or a second inlet chamber tapered region 126 that may taper from the second inlet chamber lateral region 118 to at least partially define a second side of the tapered elongated slot 190. As shown, the first inlet chamber tapered region 124 and the second inlet chamber tapered region 126 may taper toward one another.

[0046] As yet another example, the nozzle body 110 can define a first upper outlet chamber tapered region 128 that may extend from the first inlet chamber tapered region 124 and / or may taper away from the tapered elongated slot 190, and / or a second upper outlet chamber tapered region 130 that may extend from the second inlet chamber tapered region 126 and / or may taper away from the tapered elongated slot. The first upper outlet chamber tapered region 128 and the second upper outlet chamber tapered region 130 can taper away from one another.

[0047] As another example, the nozzle body 110 can define a first lower outlet chamber tapered region 132 that can extend from the first upper outlet chamber tapered region 128 to define a first side of the elongated outlet port 230, and / or a second lower outlet chamber tapered region 134 that can extend from the second upper outlet chamber tapered region 130 to define a second side of the elongated outlet port 230. The first lower outlet chamber tapered region 132 and the second lower outlet chamber tapered region 134 can taper toward one another.

[0048] As yet another example, the nozzle body 110 can define a first outlet structure lateral region 136 that can extend from the first lower outlet chamber tapered region 132 and define a first side of the elongated outlet structure 250. As another example, the nozzle body 110 can define a second outlet structure lateral region 138 that can extend from the second lower outlet chamber tapered region 134 and define a second side of the elongated outlet structure.

[0049] As another example, the nozzle body 110 may define an inlet region 140, perhaps best shown in Figures 3-5. The inlet region 140 may at least partially define the inlet port 220 and / or may extend from the upper region 114, the first inlet chamber lateral region 116, and / or the second inlet chamber lateral region 118.

[0050] As yet another example, the nozzle body 110 can define an end region 142, perhaps best shown in FIG. 6 . The end region 142 can define an inlet-distal end of the air distribution nozzle 100. Additionally or alternatively, the end region 142 can extend from the upper region 114, the first inlet chamber lateral region 116, the second inlet chamber lateral region 118, the first inlet chamber transition region 120, the second inlet chamber transition region 122, the first inlet chamber tapered region 124, the second inlet chamber tapered region 126, the first upper outlet chamber tapered region 128, the second upper outlet chamber tapered region 130, the first lower outlet chamber tapered region 132, the second lower outlet chamber tapered region 134, the first outlet structure lateral region 136, and / or the second outlet structure lateral region 138.

[0051] The air distribution nozzle 100 according to the present disclosure can be relatively simple and / or include fewer components when compared to conventional air distribution nozzles. Such conventional air distribution nozzles often rely on internal baffles, flow straighteners, and / or flow guides to provide a desired level of fluid flow uniformity, resulting in conventional air distribution nozzles being more expensive and / or complex to manufacture, install, and / or maintain. With the above in mind, and considering the illustrations of the air distribution nozzle 100 shown in FIGS. 2-9 , it is within the scope of the present disclosure that the air distribution nozzle 100 according to the present disclosure may not include or may be spared baffles, flow straighteners, and / or flow guides that may extend and / or protrude within and / or between the elongated inlet chamber 150, the elongated outlet chamber 170, the tapered elongated slot 190, the inlet port 220, and / or the elongated outlet port 230.

[0052] Illustrative, non-exclusive examples of the inventive subject matter according to this disclosure are described in the following enumerated paragraphs.

[0053] A1. An elongated inlet chamber (150) extending along an inlet chamber length (152), an elongated outlet chamber (170) extending along said inlet chamber length (152), a tapered elongated slot (190) extending between said elongated inlet chamber (150) and said elongated outlet chamber (170) and fluidly interconnecting said elongated inlet chamber (150) and said elongated outlet chamber (170), and an inlet port (220) to said elongated inlet chamber (150), said inlet port (220) being aligned along an inlet flow axis (72) or in an inlet flow direction. an elongated outlet port (230) from the elongated outlet chamber (170), the elongated outlet port (230) configured to discharge an outlet fluid flow (90) along an outlet flow axis (92) and / or in an outlet flow direction, the outlet flow axis (92) being oriented at a skew angle (96) relative to the inlet flow axis (72).

[0054] A2. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A1, wherein the inlet flow axis (72) is at least one of: (i) perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a cross-section of the inlet port (220); and (ii) parallel or at least substantially parallel to an inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154) of the elongated inlet chamber (150).

[0055] A3. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A1 or A2, wherein the outlet flow axis (92) is at least one of: (i) perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a cross-section of the elongated outlet port (230); (ii) perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to an outlet port longitudinal axis (234) of the elongated outlet port (230); and (iii) perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to an outlet chamber longitudinal axis (174) of the elongated outlet chamber (170).

[0056] A4. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A3, wherein the skew angle (96) is at least one of: (i) at least 45 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 55 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, at least 75 degrees, at least 80 degrees, at least 85 degrees, or at least 90 degrees; (ii) at most 135 degrees, at most 130 degrees, at most 125 degrees, at most 120 degrees, at most 115 degrees, at most 110 degrees, at most 105 degrees, at most 100 degrees, at most 95 degrees, or at most 90 degrees; and (iii) at least substantially equal to 90 degrees.

[0057] A5. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A4, wherein the inlet port (220) is a circular, at least partially circular, or at least substantially circular inlet port (220).

[0058] A6. An air distribution nozzle (100) described in any of paragraphs A1 to A5, wherein the inlet port (220) is oriented to direct the inlet fluid flow (70) along, or at least substantially along, the inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154) of the elongated inlet chamber (150).

[0059] A7. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any of paragraphs A1 to A6, wherein the cross-section of the inlet port (220) is perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154) of the elongated inlet chamber (150).

[0060] A8. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A7, wherein the elongated outlet port (230) is at least one of: (i) a rectangular elongated outlet port (230); (ii) an at least substantially rectangular elongated outlet port (230); and (iii) a rectangular elongated outlet port (230) with rounded corners.

[0061] A9. An air distribution nozzle (100) described in any of paragraphs A1 to A8, wherein the outlet port longitudinal axis (234) of the elongated outlet port (230) extends parallel or at least substantially parallel to the outlet chamber longitudinal axis (174) of the elongated outlet chamber (170).

[0062] A10. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any of paragraphs A1 to A9, wherein the tapered elongated slot (190) extends continuously between the first slot end (196) and the second slot end (200).

[0063] A11. An air distribution nozzle (100) described in any of paragraphs A1 to A10, wherein the tapered elongated slot (190) includes a plurality of slot portions (204), each slot portion (204) of the plurality of slot portions (204) fluidly interconnecting a given region of the elongated inlet chamber (150) with a corresponding region of the elongated outlet chamber (170).

[0064] A12. An air distribution nozzle (100) described in any of paragraphs A1 to A11, wherein the tapered elongated slot (190) defines a first slot width (198) at a first slot end (196) of the tapered elongated slot (190) and a second slot width (202) at a second slot end (200) of the tapered elongated slot (190) that is different from the first slot width (198).

[0065] A13. An air distribution nozzle (100) as described in paragraph A12, wherein the first slot end (196) of the tapered elongated slot (190) is relatively close to the inlet port (220) and the second slot end (200) of the tapered elongated slot (190) is relatively far from the inlet port (220).

[0066] A14. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A12 or A13, wherein the first slot width (198) is greater than the second slot width (202).

[0067] A15. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A12 to A14, wherein the tapered elongated slot (190) is at least one of: (i) monotonically tapering from the first slot width (198) to the second slot width (202); (ii) linearly tapering from the first slot width (198) to the second slot width (202); and (iii) arcuately tapering from the first slot width (198) to the second slot width (202).

[0068] A16. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A12 to A15, wherein the ratio of the first slot width (198) to the second slot width (202) is at least one of: (i) at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, or at least 2.0; and (ii) at most 4.0, at most 3.8, at most 3.6, at most 3.4, at most 3.2, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, or at most 1.5.

[0069] A17. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A12 to A16, wherein the first slot width (198) is at least one of: (i) at least 1.5 millimeters (mm), at least 1.6 mm, at least 1.7 mm, at least 1.8 mm, at least 1.9 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 2.1 mm, at least 2.2 mm, at least 2.3 mm, or at least 2.4 mm; and (ii) at most 3 mm, at most 2.9 mm, at most 2.8 mm, at most 2.7 mm, at most 2.6 mm, at most 2.5 mm, at most 2.4 mm, at most 2.3 mm, at most 2.2 mm, at most 2.1 mm, or at most 2 mm.

[0070] A18. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A12 to A17, wherein the second slot width (202) is at least one of: (i) at least 0.5 mm, at least 0.6 mm, at least 0.7 mm, at least 0.8 mm, at least 0.9 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.1 mm, at least 1.2 mm, at least 1.3 mm, or at least 1.4 mm; and (ii) at most 2 mm, at most 1.9 mm, at most 1.8 mm, at most 1.7 mm, at most 1.6 mm, at most 1.5 mm, at most 1.4 mm, at most 1.3 mm, at most 1.2 mm, at most 1.1 mm, or at most 1 mm.

[0071] A19. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A18, wherein the elongated inlet chamber (150) defines an inlet chamber length (152) and the elongated outlet chamber (170) defines an outlet chamber length (172).

[0072] A20. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A19, wherein at least one of (i) the inlet chamber length (152) is measured along an inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154), and (ii) the outlet chamber length (172) is measured along an outlet chamber longitudinal axis (174).

[0073] A21. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A19 or A20, wherein the ratio of the inlet chamber length (152) to the outlet chamber length (172) is at least one of: (i) at least 1.0, at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, or at least 1.5; and (ii) at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, at most 1.5, at most 1.4, at most 1.3, or at most 1.2.

[0074] A22. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A19 to A21, wherein the inlet chamber length (152) is at least one of: (i) at least 300 mm, at least 325 mm, at least 350 mm, at least 375 mm, at least 400 mm, at least 425 mm, at least 450 mm, at least 475 mm, or at least 500 mm; and (ii) at most 600 mm, at most 575 mm, at most 550 mm, at most 525 mm, at most 500 mm, at most 450 mm, at most 425 mm, or at most 400 mm.

[0075] A23. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any of paragraphs A1 to A22, wherein the elongated inlet chamber (150) defines an inlet chamber width (160) or an average inlet chamber width (160), and the elongated outlet chamber (170) defines an outlet chamber width (180) or an average outlet chamber width (180).

[0076] A24. (i) the inlet chamber width (160) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154), (ii) the outlet chamber width (180) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the outlet chamber longitudinal axis (174), (iii) the inlet chamber width (160) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the inlet flow axis (72), (iv) the outlet chamber width (180) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the outlet flow axis ( 92), (v) the inlet chamber width (160) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a slot longitudinal axis (194) of extension of the tapered elongated slot (190), and (vi) the outlet chamber width (180) is measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the slot longitudinal axis (194).

[0077] A25. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A23 or A24, wherein at least one of the inlet chamber width or average inlet chamber width (160) and the outlet chamber width or average outlet chamber width (180) is at least one of (i) at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, or at least 50 mm, and (ii) at most 75 mm, at most 70 mm, at most 65 mm, at most 60 mm, at most 55 mm, at most 50 mm, at most 45 mm, at most 40 mm, or at most 35 mm.

[0078] A26. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A25, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) defines a total nozzle height (102) or an average total nozzle height (102).

[0079] A27. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A26, wherein the nozzle overall height (102) is at least one of (i) measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to an inlet chamber longitudinal axis (154), (ii) measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to an outlet chamber longitudinal axis (174), (iii) measured parallel or at least substantially parallel to the outlet flow axis (92), and (iv) measured perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to a slot longitudinal axis (194).

[0080] A28. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A26 or A27, wherein the overall nozzle height (102) is at least one of: (i) at least 75 mm, at least 80 mm, at least 85 mm, at least 90 mm, at least 95 mm, at least 100 mm, at least 105 mm, at least 110 mm, at least 115 mm, or at least 120 mm; and (ii) at most 150 mm, at most 145 mm, at most 140 mm, at most 135 mm, at most 130 mm, at most 125 mm, at most 120 mm, at most 115 mm, at most 110 mm, or at most 105 mm.

[0081] A29. The cross-sectional area (156) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum cross-sectional area (156) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) is a threshold inlet chamber area multiple of the minimum cross-sectional area (156) of the elongated inlet chamber (150), and further optionally, the threshold inlet chamber area multiple is at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0082] A30. The height (158) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum height (158) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) is a threshold inlet chamber height multiple of the minimum height (158) of the elongated inlet chamber (150), and further optionally, the threshold inlet chamber height multiple is at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3 , at least one of at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0083] A31. The width (160) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum width (160) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) is at least a threshold inlet chamber width (160) multiple of the minimum width (160) of the elongated inlet chamber (150), and further optionally, the threshold inlet chamber width (160) multiple is at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0084] A32. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A31, wherein the elongated inlet chamber (150) is shaped to direct the inlet fluid flow (70) toward the tapered elongated slot (190).

[0085] A33. The cross-sectional area (176) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum cross-sectional area (176) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) is at least a threshold outlet chamber area multiple of the minimum cross-sectional area (176) of the elongated outlet chamber (170), and further optionally, examples of the threshold outlet chamber area multiple are at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 2. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A32, wherein the axial displacement of the air distribution nozzle (100) is at least one of at least 1.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0086] A34. The height (178) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum height (178) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) is at least a threshold outlet chamber height multiple of the minimum height (178) of the elongated outlet chamber (170), and further optionally, the threshold outlet chamber height multiple is at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1. 0.3, at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0087] A35. The width (180) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) decreases along the inlet flow direction, and optionally the maximum width (180) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) is at least a threshold outlet chamber width multiple of the minimum width (180) of the elongated outlet chamber (170), and further optionally, the threshold outlet chamber width multiple is at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, at least 1.25, at least 1.3 , at least one of at least 1.35, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at most 3.0, at most 2.9, at most 2.8, at most 2.7, at most 2.6, at most 2.5, at most 2.4, at most 2.3, at most 2.2, at most 2.1, at most 2.0, at most 1.9, at most 1.8, at most 1.7, at most 1.6, and at most 1.5.

[0088] A36. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any of paragraphs A1 to A35, wherein the inlet chamber (150) is shaped to impart a pair of counter-rotating vortices (80) to the fluid flow from the tapered elongated slot (190) to the elongated outlet port (230).

[0089] A37. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A36, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) further comprises an elongated outlet structure (250) that receives the outlet fluid stream (90) from the elongated outlet port (230).

[0090] A38. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A37, wherein the elongated outlet structure (250) defines a diffuser mounting structure (252).

[0091] A39. The air distribution nozzle (100) described in paragraph A38, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) further includes an air diffuser (254) operably attached to the diffuser mounting structure (252), and optionally, the air diffuser (254) includes at least one of a screen, a grill, and a louver.

[0092] A40. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A39, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) includes a nozzle body (110) defining the elongated inlet chamber (150), the elongated outlet chamber (170), the tapered elongated slot (190), the inlet port (220), and the elongated outlet port (230).

[0093] A41. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A40, wherein the nozzle body (110) is a monolithic nozzle body.

[0094] A42. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to paragraph A40 or A41, wherein the nozzle body (110) is a composite nozzle body (110) defined by at least two body components (112), optionally only two body components (112), operably attached to one another to define the nozzle body (110).

[0095] A43. The air distribution nozzle (100) of paragraph A42, wherein the at least two body components (112) are shaped to be mirror images or at least substantially mirror images of one another.

[0096] A44. The nozzle body (110) includes: (i) an upper region (114) defining a top surface of the elongated inlet chamber (150); (ii) a first inlet chamber lateral region (116) defining a first side surface of the elongated inlet chamber (150); (iii) a second inlet chamber lateral region (118) defining a second side surface of the elongated inlet chamber (150); (iv) a first inlet chamber transition region (120) transitioning from the upper region (114) to the first inlet chamber lateral region (116); and (v) a second inlet chamber transition region (120) transitioning from the upper region (114) to the second inlet chamber lateral region (118). (vi) a first inlet chamber tapered region (124) tapering from said first inlet chamber lateral region (116) and defining a first side of said tapered elongated slot (190); (vii) a second inlet chamber tapered region (126) tapering from said second inlet chamber lateral region (118) and defining a second side of said tapered elongated slot (190); (viii) a second inlet chamber tapered region (124) extending from said first inlet chamber tapered region (124) and defining a second side of said tapered elongated slot (190); (ix) a first upper outlet chamber tapered region (128) tapering away from said tapered elongated slot (190); (ix) a second upper outlet chamber tapered region (130) extending from said second inlet chamber tapered region (126) and tapering away from said tapered elongated slot (190); (x) a first lower outlet chamber tapered region (132) extending from said first upper outlet chamber tapered region (128) and defining a first side of said elongated outlet port (230); (xi) a second upper outlet chamber tapered region (130) extending from said second upper outlet chamber tapered region (130) (xii) a first outlet structure lateral region (136) extending from the first lower outlet chamber tapered region (132) and defining a first side of the elongated outlet structure (250); (xiii) a second outlet structure lateral region (138) extending from the second lower outlet chamber tapered region (134) and defining a second side of the elongated outlet structure (250); (xiv) the upper region (114) at least partially defining the inlet port (220);an inlet region (140) extending from at least one of the first inlet chamber lateral region (116) and the second inlet chamber lateral region (118); and (xv) an inlet-distal end of the air distribution nozzle (100), the inlet region (140) being formed from the upper region (114), the first inlet chamber lateral region (116), the second inlet chamber lateral region (118), the first inlet chamber transition region (120), the second inlet chamber transition region (122), the first inlet chamber tapered region (124), the second inlet chamber The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A43, comprising at least one of an end region (142) extending from at least one of the first upper outlet chamber tapered region (126), the first upper outlet chamber tapered region (128), the second upper outlet chamber tapered region (130), the first lower outlet chamber tapered region (132), the second lower outlet chamber tapered region (134), the first outlet structure lateral region (136), and the second outlet structure lateral region (138).

[0097] A45. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A44, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) is configured to change the direction of the inlet fluid flow (70) from the inlet flow direction to the outlet flow direction such that at least one of: (i) the outlet fluid flow (90) is uniform or at least substantially uniform along the outlet port length of the elongated outlet port (230); (ii) the outlet fluid flow (90) is laminar; and (iii) the outlet fluid flow (90) is at least substantially uniformly directed in the outlet flow direction.

[0098] A46. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A45, wherein at least one of the elongated inlet chamber (150), the elongated outlet chamber (170), the tapered elongated slot (190), the inlet port (220), and the elongated outlet port (230) does not have at least one of (i) a baffle, (ii) a flow straightener, and (iii) a flow guide.

[0099] A47. The air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A46, wherein the outlet fluid stream (90) is configured to generate an air curtain (98).

[0100] B1. An aircraft (10) comprising an air distribution nozzle (100) according to any of paragraphs A1 to A47 and an air supply conduit (30) providing said inlet fluid flow (70) to said inlet port (220).

[0101] B2. The aircraft (10) described in paragraph B1, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) is disposed within a cockpit (20) of the aircraft (10), and the outlet fluid flow (90) is configured to generate an air curtain (98) between a pilot seating area (12) of the aircraft (10) and a co-pilot seating area (14) of the aircraft.

[0102] C1. A method of utilizing the air distribution nozzle (100) of any of paragraphs A1 to A47, comprising: bringing the inlet fluid stream (70) into the elongated inlet chamber (150) through the inlet port (220) along the inlet flow direction; redirecting the inlet fluid stream (70) within the elongated inlet chamber (150) to generate a slot fluid stream (206) that flows through the tapered elongated slot (190) and into the elongated outlet chamber (170); generating a pair of counter-rotating vortices (80) within the slot fluid stream (206) within the elongated outlet chamber (170); and discharging the outlet fluid stream (90) from the elongated outlet port (230) along the outlet flow direction.

[0103] C2. The method of paragraph C1, wherein the discharging step includes discharging such that the outlet flow direction is oriented at the skew angle (96) relative to the inlet flow direction.

[0104] C3. The method of paragraphs C1 or C2, wherein the discharging step includes at least one of (i) discharging a linear outlet fluid stream (90) and (ii) discharging a laminar outlet fluid stream (90).

[0105] D1. Using an air distribution nozzle (100) to receive an inlet fluid stream (70) in an inlet flow direction and redirect said inlet fluid stream (70) to an outlet flow direction oriented at a skew angle (96) relative to said inlet flow direction to generate an outlet fluid stream (90) that defines an air curtain (98).

[0106] As used herein, the terms "selective" and "selectively," when modifying the operation, movement, configuration, or other activity of one or more components or features of a device, mean that the particular operation, movement, configuration, or other activity is the direct or indirect result of the user's manipulation of an aspect or one or more components of the device.

[0107] As used herein, the terms "adapted" and "configured" mean that an element, component, or other subject matter is designed and / or intended to perform a given function. Thus, use of the terms "adapted" and "configured" should not be interpreted to mean that a given element, component, or other subject matter is merely "capable of" performing a given function, but rather that the element, component, and / or other subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the function. It is also within the scope of this disclosure that elements, components, and / or other subject matter described as being adapted to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being configured to perform that function, and vice versa. Similarly, subject matter described as being configured to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being operable to perform that function.

[0108] As used herein, the phrase "at least one," in reference to a list of one or more entities, should be understood to mean at least one entity selected from any one or more of the entities in the list of entities, but does not necessarily include at least one of every entity specifically named in the list of entities, nor does it exclude any combination of entities in the list of entities. By this definition, entities other than the entities specifically identified in the list of entities to which the phrase "at least one" refers can optionally be present, whether or not they are related to the specifically identified entity. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B" or "at least one of A and / or B") can refer in one embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, A, and no B (and optionally including entities other than B); in another embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, B, and no A (and optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, A, and at least one, optionally more than one, B (and optionally including other entities). In other words, the terms "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are non-exclusive expressions that work both conjunctively and disjunctively. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" can each mean A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B, and C, optionally in combination with at least one other entity.

[0109] The various disclosed elements and steps of the devices and methods disclosed herein are not required for all devices and methods according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements and steps disclosed herein. Moreover, one or more of the various elements and steps disclosed herein may define independent inventive subject matter separate and apart from the entirety of the disclosed devices or methods. Thus, such inventive subject matter need not relate to the particular devices and methods explicitly disclosed herein, and such inventive subject matter may find utility in devices and / or methods not explicitly disclosed herein.

[0110] As used herein, the phrases "for example," "for example," and / or simply "example," when used with reference to one or more components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods according to the present disclosure, are intended to convey that the described components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods are illustrative and non-exclusive examples of the components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods according to the present disclosure. Thus, the described components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods are not intended to be limiting, necessary, or exclusive / exhaustive, and other components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods, including structurally and / or functionally similar and / or equivalent components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods, are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0111] As used herein, "at least substantially," when modifying a degree or relationship, can include not only the stated "substantial" degree or relationship, but also the entire range of the stated degree or relationship. A substantial amount of a stated degree or relationship can include at least 75% of the stated degree or relationship. For example, an object at least substantially formed from a material includes an object in which at least 75% of the object is formed from that material, and also includes an object formed entirely from that material. As another example, a first length at least substantially the same length as a second length includes the first length within 75% of the second length, and also includes the first length that is the same length as the second length. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 10 aircraft 12 Pilot seat area 13 Pilot's Environmental Control Unit 14 Co-pilot seating area 15 Co-pilot's Environmental Control Unit 20 cockpit 30 Air supply duct 70 Inlet fluid flow / outlet fluid flow 72 Inlet flow axis 80 (Counter-rotating) vortex 90 Outlet fluid flow / Inlet fluid flow 92 Outlet flow axis 96 Skew Angle 98 Air Curtain 100 Air distribution nozzle 102 Nozzle total height / average nozzle total height 110 Nozzle body / Composite nozzle body 112 Body Components 114 Upper area 116 first inlet chamber lateral region 118 second inlet chamber lateral region 120 first inlet chamber transition region 122 second inlet chamber transition region 124 first inlet chamber tapered region 126 second inlet chamber tapered region 128 first upper exit chamber tapered region 130 second upper exit chamber tapered region 132 first lower exit chamber tapered region 134 second lower exit chamber tapered region 136 First Exit Structure Lateral Area 138 Second Exit Structure Lateral Region 140 Entrance area 142 End area 150 elongated entrance chamber 152 inlet chamber length 154 inlet chamber longitudinal axis 156 Cross-sectional area (of elongated inlet chamber) / minimum cross-sectional area / maximum cross-sectional area 158 Inlet chamber height 160 inlet chamber width / average inlet chamber width 170 elongated outlet chamber 172 Exit chamber length 174 Outlet chamber longitudinal axis 176 Cross-sectional area (of elongated outlet chamber) / minimum cross-sectional area / maximum cross-sectional area 178 Exit chamber height 180 Exit chamber width / average exit chamber width 190 Tapered elongated slot 192 Tapered slot length / Tapered slot length / Length of elongated slot on tapered 194 Slot longitudinal axis 196 first slot end 198 First slot width 200 second slot end 202 Second slot width 204 Slot part 206 Slot Fluid Flow 220 Inlet Port 226 Inlet opening 230 elongated exit port 232 Outlet port length 234 Outlet port longitudinal axis 236 Exit opening 250 Long and narrow exit structure 252 Diffuser mounting structure 254 Air diffuser

Claims

1. an elongated inlet chamber (150) extending along an inlet chamber length (152); an elongated outlet chamber (170) extending along said inlet chamber length (152); a tapered elongated slot (190) extending between the elongated inlet chamber (150) and the elongated outlet chamber (170) and fluidly interconnecting the elongated inlet chamber (150) and the elongated outlet chamber (170), the tapered elongated slot (190) tapering along a length (192) of the tapered elongated slot; an inlet port (220) to the elongated inlet chamber (150), the inlet port (220) configured to receive an inlet fluid stream (70) in an inlet flow direction along an inlet flow axis (72); an elongated outlet port (230) from the elongated outlet chamber (170), the elongated outlet port (230) configured to discharge the outlet fluid stream (90) in an outlet flow direction along an outlet flow axis (92); It is equipped with The outlet flow axis (92) is oriented at a skew angle (96) relative to the inlet flow axis (72). Air distribution nozzle (100).

2. 2. The air distribution nozzle of claim 1, wherein the inlet port is oriented to direct the inlet fluid flow at least along an inlet chamber longitudinal axis of the elongated inlet chamber.

3. 3. The air distribution nozzle of claim 1, wherein an outlet port longitudinal axis of the elongated outlet port extends at least parallel to an outlet chamber longitudinal axis of the elongated outlet chamber.

4. 4. The air distribution nozzle of claim 1, wherein the tapered elongated slot defines a first slot width at a first slot end of the tapered elongated slot and a second slot width at a second slot end of the tapered elongated slot that is different from the first slot width, the first slot end of the tapered elongated slot being relatively closer to the inlet port and the second slot end of the tapered elongated slot being relatively farther from the inlet port.

5. 5. The air distribution nozzle of claim 1, wherein the elongated inlet chamber defines an inlet chamber length and the elongated outlet chamber defines an outlet chamber length, and wherein a ratio of the inlet chamber length to the outlet chamber length is at least 1.0 and at most 2.

0.

6. (i) the cross-sectional area (156) of the elongated inlet chamber (150) decreases along the inlet flow direction; (ii) the cross-sectional area (176) of the elongated outlet chamber (170) decreases along the inlet flow direction; An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. 7. The air distribution nozzle of claim 1, further comprising an elongated outlet structure that receives the outlet fluid flow from the elongated outlet port, the elongated outlet structure defining a diffuser mounting structure, and the air distribution nozzle further comprising an air diffuser operably mounted to the diffuser mounting structure.

8. 8. The air distribution nozzle (100) of claim 1, comprising a nozzle body (110) defining the elongated inlet chamber (150), the elongated outlet chamber (170), the tapered elongated slot (190), the inlet port (220), and the elongated outlet port (230).

9. The elongated inlet chamber (150), the elongated outlet chamber (170), the tapered elongated slot (190), the inlet port (220), and the elongated outlet port (230) are (i) a baffle; (ii) a rectifier; and (iii) Flow Guide The air distribution nozzle (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the nozzle is free of:

10. An air distribution nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; an air supply conduit (30) configured to provide the inlet fluid flow (70) to the inlet port (220); An aircraft (10) comprising:

11. 11. The aircraft (10) of claim 10, wherein the air distribution nozzle (100) is disposed in a cockpit (20) of the aircraft (10), and the outlet fluid flow (90) is configured to create an air curtain (98) between a pilot seating area (12) of the aircraft (10) and a co-pilot seating area (14) of the aircraft (10).

12. A method of utilizing an air distribution nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the steps of: providing the inlet fluid flow (70) through the inlet port (220) along the inlet flow direction into the elongated inlet chamber (150); redirecting the inlet fluid flow (70) within the elongated inlet chamber (150) to generate a slot fluid flow (206) that flows through the tapered elongated slot (190) and into the elongated outlet chamber (170); generating a pair of counter-rotating vortices (80) within the slot fluid flow (206) within the elongated exit chamber (170); Discharging the outlet fluid stream (90) from the elongated outlet port (230) along the outlet flow direction; A method comprising:

Images