Plenum adapter assembly for mobile ventilation systems

Abstract

A plenum adapter assembly may comprise an air conditioning return adapter, a first ventilation adapter, a second ventilation adapter, a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with first ventilation adapter, and a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter, wherein the air conditioning return adapter is coupled to each of the first flexible duct segment and the second flexible duct segment, wherein, when in fluid communication with the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter allows fluid communication between the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter, and each of the first ventilation adapter and the second ventilation adapter.

Description

TITLE: PLENUM ADAPTER ASSEMBLY FOR MOBILE VENTILATIONSYSTEMSINVENTOR: DONALD JAMES ROHACEKASSIGNEE: KOOLRV SOLUTIONS, INC.CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a non-provisional of, and claims priority to, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 505,769, filed June 2, 2023, entitled “RV AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM HAVING DIRECT COUPLING VENTILATION COMPONENT" and which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates generally to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and, more particularly, to mobile HVAC systems for recreational vehicles (RVs) and over the road trailers.BACKGROUND

[0003] Recreational Vehicles (RVs) are a class of motor vehicles or trailers which include living quarters designed for accommodation. RVs may be trailers (which are towed behind motor vehicles) or may be self-propelled vehicles. Most RVs are single-deck; however, double-deck RVs also exist. Types of RVs may include, for example, motorhomes, campervans, coaches, caravans (also known as travel trailers and campers), fifth-wheel trailers, popup campers, and truck campers. Generally, RVs include HVAC systems to maintain the comfort of the user. RVs are commonly used for living quarters while traveling. People may choose to take a road trip in their RV and use the RV to sleep in, rather than a hotel room. They may even decide to tow their car from the back of the RV so they can use that to travel around more easily when they reach their destination. Although the most common usage of an RV is as temporary accommodation when traveling, many people use anRV as their main residence in contrast to a traditional structure. In fact, one millionAmericans live in RVs.SUMMARY

[0004] In various embodiments the present disclosure provides a plenum adapter assembly comprising an air conditioning return adapter, a first ventilation adapter, a second ventilation adapter, a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with first ventilation adapter, and a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter, wherein the air conditioning return adapter is coupled to each of the first flexible duct segment and the second flexible duct segment, wherein, when in fluid communication with the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter allows fluid communication between the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter, and each of the first ventilation adapter and the second ventilation adapter.

[0005] In various embodiments, the air conditioning return adapter further comprises a rectilinear inlet portion defining an inlet face, a first cylindrical outlet portion defining a first outlet face, and a second cylindrical outlet portion defining a second outlet face. In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion further comprises a tongue portion and a flange, wherein the flange extends orthogonally outward of the tongue portion around a first side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear inlet portion and a second side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear inlet portion, and wherein the first side and the second side intersect orthogonally to define a first comer of the tongue portion. In various embodiments, the orthogonal extent of the flange is uniform around the first side and the second side. In various embodiments, the orthogonal extent of the flange is relatively greater along the first side along and relatively reduced along the second side.

[0006] In various embodiments, the flange comprises a mounting feature relief cutout proximate the first side. In various embodiments, the edges of the mounting feature reliefcutout define an angle between 10° and 20°. In various embodiments, the tongue portion further comprises a coupling feature proximate the inlet face. In various embodiments, the coupling feature includes a tooth projecting radially outward of the tongue portion, wherein an interface surface of the tooth is chamfered. In various embodiments, an angle of intersection between an axis orthogonal to the first outlet face of the first cylindrical outlet portion and an axis orthogonal to the second outlet face of the second cylindrical outlet portion is between 110° and 145°. In various embodiments, a ratio of the inlet face area to the total area of the first outlet face and the second outlet face is between 0.4: 1 and 1.1: 1.

[0007] In various embodiments, an adapter body, an ovoidal inlet portion defining an inlet face of the ventilation adapter, a rectilinear outlet portion defining an outlet face of the ventilation adapter, wherein the adapter body extends between the ovoidal inlet portion and the rectilinear outlet portion and enables fluid communication between the inlet face and the outlet face.

[0008] In various embodiments, the rectilinear outlet portion further comprises a tongue portion and a flange, wherein the flange extends orthogonally outward of the tongue portion only around a first side, a second side, and a third side, of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion, wherein the first side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion and the second side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion intersect orthogonally to define a first comer of the tongue portion the rectilinear outlet portion, and wherein the third side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion is parallel to the first side of the of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion.

[0009] In various embodiments, the adapter body includes a long wall and a short wall which asymmetrically offsets the inlet face of the ventilation adapter and the outlet face. In various embodiments, the long wall defines an exterior angle between the long wall and a fourth side of the tongue portion between 230° and 250°. In various embodiments, the inletface of the ovoidal inlet portion defines an angle between the inlet face and an axis orthogonal to the outlet face of the rectilinear outlet portion between 20° and 40°.

[0010] In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a recreational vehicle (RV) comprising an air conditioning unit including an air intake and a conditioned air return, a plenum space including a first ventilation outlet and a second ventilation outlet, wherein at least one of the air intake or the conditioned air return are in fluid communication with the plenum space, a plenum adapter assembly, comprising an air conditioning return adapter, a first ventilation adapter, a second ventilation adapter, a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with first ventilation adapter, and a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter, wherein the air conditioning return adapter is coupled to each of the first flexible duct segment and the second flexible duct segment, wherein, when in fluid communication with the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter allows fluid communication between the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter, and each of the first ventilation adapter and the second ventilation adapter.

[0011] In various embodiments, the plenum adapter assembly is disposed entirely within the plenum space. In various embodiments, the first ventilation adapter is coupled to and in fluid communication with the first ventilation outlet and the second ventilation adapter is coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation outlet.

[0012] In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of assembling a plenum adapter assembly for a recreational vehicle (RV) comprising disposing the plenum adapter assembly into a plenum space of the RV. inserting a tongue portion of an air conditioning return adapter into a conditioned air return of the plenum space, contacting a flange of the air conditioning return adapter to a surface of the plenum space proximate the conditioned air return and coupling the air condition return adapter to the conditioned airreturn, extending a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a first ventilation adapter, inserting a tongue portion of the first ventilation adapter into a first ventilation outlet of the plenum space, contacting a flange of the first ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the first ventilation outlet, coupling the first ventilation adapter to the first ventilation outlet such that fluid communication is enabled between the first ventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter, extending a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a second ventilation adapter, inserting a tongue portion of the second ventilation adapter into a second ventilation outlet of the plenum space, contacting a flange of the second ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the second ventilation outlet, and coupling the second ventilation adapter to the second ventilation outlet such that fluid communication is enabled between the second ventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter.

[0013] The forgoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated herein otherwise. These features and elements as well as the operation of the disclosed embodiments will become more apparent in light of the following description and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. A more complete understanding of the present disclosures, however, may best be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary recreational vehicle including a plenum adapter assembly, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a plenum space force fixture assembly, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a plenum adapter assembly, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 4A illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 4B illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 4C illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 4D illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 4E illustrates a cross section of an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a coupling feature of an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 6A illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 6B illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0026] FIG. 6C illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0027] FIG. 6D illustrates a cross section of an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0028] FIG. 6E illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance withvarious embodiments;

[0029] FIG. 7 illustrates a mounting feature of an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0030] FIG. 8A illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0031] FIG. 8B illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0032] FIG. 8C illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0033] FIG. 8D illustrates a cross section of an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0034] FIG. 8E illustrates an air conditioning return adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0035] FIG. 9A illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0036] FIG. 9B illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0037] FIG. 9C illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0038] FIG. 9D illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0039] FIG. 9E illustrates a cross section of a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0040] FIG. 10A illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0041] FIG. 10B illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0042] FIG. IOC illustrates a ventilation adapter, in accordance with various embodiments; and

[0043] FIG. 11 illustrates of assembling a plenum adapter assembly, in accordance with various embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration and their best mode. While these exemplary' embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosures, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical, chemical, and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosures. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary', partial, full and / or any other possible attachment option. Additionally, any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact.

[0045] RVs tend to be expensive to operate and maintain due to their compact structural design and mobility. In comparison to traditional structures. RVs tend to lack a comparable amount of insulation or power supply. A particular problem that often arises with recreational trailers and motor homes is the poor efficiency rating of their air treatmentsystems. The inefficiencies of these systems tend to make RV HVAC systems more expensive and environmentally unfriendly. For example, loss of cooling efficiency may tend to require increased insulation or increased cooling capacity', either of which negatively impact weight and increase fuel bum, thereby increasing operating costs and environmental impact. The feedback between these constraints makes any optimizations or increases in cooling efficiency highly desirable to RV manufacturers, owners, and operators.

[0046] Furthermore, RVs tend to be designed to the bespoke specification of purchaser or end user. As a result, RV manufacturers often provide a selection of many different HVAC systems which are sourced from a variety of HVAC manufacturers or subcontractors. As a result, there is little to no standardization in HVAC systems for use in RVs which tends to inhibit optimization of RV cooling thereby further low ering the heating and cooling efficiency of HVAC system as installed in the RV. Particularly, for ease of manufacture and simplicity of integration with the plurality of available air conditioning units, RVs may tend to employ a simple plenum chamber to supply intake air to the air conditioning unit and to feed return air from the air conditioning unit to living quarters of the RV. A particular problem with such traditional systems is the relatively large volume of the plenum space fed by the air conditioning unit return and the relatively low volume of the ventilation ducting in fluid communication therewith. The traditional design tends to inhibit flow of return air from the air conditioning unit into the plenum space and through the ventilation ducting of the living quarters. In response to the flow resistance, pressure in the plenum space nses demanding more power from the air conditioning unit to overcome the pressure rise, increasing the temperature of the return air, and lowering overall cooling efficiency. In contrast to traditional systems, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide an overall improvement in efficiency greater than 40% above the baseline capability of the traditional svstem.

[0047] In various embodiments and with reference to FIG. 1, a recreational vehicle(RV) 100 is provided. The RV 100 may be of self-propelled type and include a control cab 102 and living quarters 104. The environment of the living quarters 104 may be maintained by a HVAC system 106. The HVAC system 106 includes an air conditioning (AC) unit 108 which is mounted to the roof structure 110 of the living quarters 104. The AC unit 108 is coupled to a plenum space 200 within the roof structure 110 and the relatively below the AC unit 108. In various embodiments, a plenum adapter assembly 300 is disposed within the plenum space 200 and enables fluid communication between the AC unit 108 and ventilation ducting of the living quarters 104. In various embodiments, the ventilation ducting may be run through the roof structure 110. In various embodiments, the HVAC system 106 may draw power from an offboard power source 112. The HVAC system 106 may draw power from an onboard engine 114 configured to provide a motive force to the wheels 116 of the RV 100.

[0048] According to various embodiments and with reference to FIG. 2, the plenum space 200 is illustrated as viewed at an angle and looking relatively upward at the roof structure 1 10 from the interior of the living quarters 104. The plenum adapter assembly 300 and other interior coverings and internal components are omitted for clarity. The upper surface 202 of the plenum space 200 is configured to interface with the AC unit 108. The upper surface 202 includes an air intake 204 and a conditioned air return 206. The air intake 204 feeds intake air from the living quarters 104 through the plenum space 200 to the AC unit 108. The AC unit 108 returns conditioned air (typically chilled air) to the plenum space 200 via the conditioned air return 206. In various embodiments, the plenum space includes one or more ventilations outlets such as a first ventilation outlet 212 and a second ventilation outlet 214 which feed HVAC system 106 components downstream of the plenum space 200 such as cabin vents or diffusers within the living quarters 104. In various embodiments, cross flowbetween the air intake 204 and relatively downstream HVAC system components such as the conditioned air return 206 and ventilation outlets (212, 214) may be inhibited by an optionally removable bulkhead (not show for clarity ) which extends across the upper surface 202 between the first sidewall 208 and second sidewall 210 of the plenum space 200. The plenum space 200 may be closed out by a cover (omitted for clarity ) which provides for fluid communication between the interior of the living quarters and the plenum space 200.

[0049] With additional reference to FIG. 3, a plenum adapter assembly 300 is illustrated installed in the plenum space 200 in accordance with various embodiments. Plenum adapter assembly 300 includes an air conditioning return adapter 302, a first ventilation adapter 304, a second ventilation adapter 306, a first flexible duct segment 308, and a second flexible duct segment 310. The first flexible duct segment 308 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the first ventilation adapter 304 and the air conditioning return adapter 302. In like regard, the second flexible duct segment 310 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter 306 and the air conditioning return adapter 302. In various embodiments, a flexible duct segment such as the first flexible duct segment 308 and / or second flexible duct segment 310 may' be a wire wound flexible ducting comprising a plurality of layers of material wrapped and / or overmolded to encase a spial of metallic wire or other suitable material capable of providing sufficient structural rigidity to resist collapsing the flexible duct segment when subject to flexture or axial loading. In various embodiments, the layers may comprise elastomeric materials such as rubber, synthetic rubber, or low durometer thermoplastics, PVC. stretched polyester films, and / or the like. In various embodiments, the interior surface of the flexible duct segment may be metalized. In various embodiments, the material layers may include metal films or metallic foils to increase the insulative properties of the flexible duct segment.

[0050] The air conditioning return adapter is coupled to conditioned air return 206and each of the first flexible duct segment 308 and second flexible duct segment 310. The first ventilation adapter 304 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the first ventilation outlet 212. In like regard, the second ventilation adapter 306 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation outlet 214. While the air conditioning return adapter 302 is coupled to the conditioned air return 206, fluid communication is allowed between the conditioned air return 206, the air conditioning return adapter 302, and each of the first ventilation adapter 304 and the second ventilation adapter 306. In this way, direct fluid communication between the conditioned air return 206 and each of the first ventilation outlet 212 and the second ventilation outlet 214 is enabled via the plenum adapter assembly 300 which bypasses the plenum space 200 when properly coupled to the HVAC system 106 components.

[0051] With combined reference to FIGs. 4 A through 4E, an air conditioning return adapter 400 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments. FIG. 4A illustrates air conditioning return adapter 400 in perspective view. FIGs 4B, 4C, and 4D illustrate air conditioning return adapter 400 with x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis provided for reference as viewed in plane with the respective pair of reference axes. FIG. 4E illustrates the air conditioning return adapter 400 in cross section through the center plane (dashed line 408 shown in FIG. 4B). Air conditioning return adapter 400 comprises a rectilinear inlet portion 402, a first cylindrical outlet portion 404, and a second cylindrical outlet portion 406. The rectilinear inlet portion 402 defines an inlet face 410. In various embodiments, the inlet face 410 may be proximate to and bounded by a tongue portion 412 of the rectilinear inlet portion 402. In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 402 may include sidewalls 414 which taper distally and relatively away from the inlet face to join the rectilinear inlet portion 402 with the first cylindrical outlet portion 404 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 406 along interface 416.

[0052] In various embodiments, the first cylindrical outlet portion 404 defines a first outlet face 418. In like regard, the second cylindrical outlet portion 406 defines a second outlet face 420. Each of the outlet portions (404, 406) may extend along an axis orthogonal to the respective outlet faces relatively away from the sidewalls 414 at the interface 416. In various embodiments, an angle of intersection “A” between an axis 422 orthogonal to the first outlet face 418 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 402 and an axis 424 orthogonal to the second outlet face 420 of the second cylindrical outlet portion 404 is about 120° where about in this context means ± 10°.

[0053] In various embodiments, the ventral intersection 436 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 402 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 404 may be radiused to match the angle of intersection A. In this way, turbulence within conditioning return adapter 400 may be reduced as the flow from the rectilinear inlet portion 402 is divided between the first cylindrical outlet portion 402 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 404. In various embodiments, the diameter of the outlet faces (418, 420) may be about 4 in (101.6 mm) where about in this context means ± 1 in (25.4 mm). In various embodiments, a ratio of the inlet face 410 area to the total area of the first outlet face 418 and the second outlet face 420 is between 1: 1 and 1.04: 1, or between 1 :1 and 1.03: 1, or between 1.02: 1 and 1: 1.

[0054] In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 402 further comprises a flange 426. The flange 426 may extend orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 412 around a first side 428 of the tongue portion 412 of the rectilinear inlet portion 402 and a second side 430 of the tongue portion 412 of the rectilinear inlet portion 402. In various embodiments, the first side 428 and the second side 430 intersect orthogonally to define a first comer 432 of the tongue portion 412. In various embodiments, the first comer 432 may be rounded or radiused. In various embodiments, the orthogonal extent of the flange 426 is uniform around the first side 428. the second side 430, and the comer 432. In variousembodiments, the ratio of the length of the first side 428 to the second side 430 may be between 1:1 and 1.4: 1, or between 1.2:1 and 2: 1, or between 1.2:1 and 3: 1, or between 2:1 and 3.8: 1.

[0055] In various embodiments, and with additional reference to FIG. 5, the tongue portion 412 may further comprise a coupling feature 500 proximate the inlet face 410. The coupling feature 500 may comprise a toothed projection 502 extending orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 412. In various embodiments, the toothed projection 502 may extend circumferentially continuously around the tongue portion 412. In various embodiments, the circumferential extent of the toothed projection 502 may be interrupted to define two or more segments. In various embodiments, the outward extent “B” of ventral surface 504 of the toothed projection 502 may be about 0.065 in (1.65 mm) where about in this context means ± 0.01 in (0.254 mm).

[0056] In this regard, the toothed projection 502 may be configured to generate an interference between the ventral surface 504 and the flange 426 sufficient to retain a seal member 434 therebetween. In various embodiments, the seal member 434 may be, for example, a gasket or an O-ring and comprise one of a rubber, a synthetic rubber, a polymer, or an elastomeric material. In various embodiments, the interface surface 506 of the toothed projection 502 may be chamfered. The chamfer angle "‘C” between the y-axis and the interface surface 506 may be about 45° where about in this context means ± 15°. In this regard, the coupling feature 500 may be configured to enable insertion of the tongue portion 412 into the conditioned air return 206 of the plenum space 200. In various embodiments, each of the first cylindrical outlet portion 402 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 404 may include a coupling feature 500 proximate the respective outlet face (418, 420).

[0057] With combined reference to FIGs. 6A through 6E, an air conditioning return adapter 600 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments with xyz-axes provided forreference. Air conditioning return adapter 600 comprises features, geometries, construction, manufacturing techniques, and / or internal components similar to air conditioning return adapter 300. FIG. 6D illustrates the air conditioning return adapter 600 in cross section through the center plane (dashed line 608 shown in FIG. 6B). Air conditioning return adapter 600 comprises a rectilinear inlet portion 602, a first cylindrical outlet portion 604, and a second cylindrical outlet portion 606. The rectilinear inlet portion 602 defines an inlet face 610. In various embodiments, the inlet face 610 may be proximate to and bounded by a tongue portion 612 of the rectilinear inlet portion 602. In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 602 may include sidewalls 614 which taper distally and relatively away from the inlet face 610 to join the rectilinear inlet portion 602 with the first cylindrical outlet portion 604 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 606 along interface 616.

[0058] In various embodiments, the first cylindrical outlet portion 604 defines a first outlet face 618. In like regard, the second cylindrical outlet portion 606 defines a second outlet face 620. Each of the outlet portions (604, 606) may extend along an axis orthogonal to the respective outlet faces (618, 620) relatively away from the sidewalls 614 at the interface 616. In various embodiments, an angle of intersection “D” between an axis 622 orthogonal to the first outlet face 618 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 602 and an axis 624 orthogonal to the second outlet face 620 of the second cylindrical outlet portion 604 is about 135° where about in this context means ± 10°. In various embodiments, the ventral intersection 636 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 602 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 604 may be a knife edge intersection. In this way, turbulence within conditioning return adapter 600 may be reduced as the flow from the rectilinear inlet portion 602 is divided between the first cylindrical outlet portion 602 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 604. In various embodiments, a ratio of the inlet face 610 area to the total area of the first outlet face 618 and the second outlet face 620 is between 1 : 1 and 1.1: 1. or between 1.09: 1 and 1.03: 1, or between1.08: 1 and 1.03: 1, or between 1:07: 1 and 1.06: 1.

[0059] In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 602 further comprises a flange 626. The flange 626 may extend orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 612 around a first side 628 of the tongue portion 612 of the rectilinear inlet portion 602 and a second side 630 of the tongue portion 612 of the rectilinear inlet portion 602. In various embodiments, the first side 628 and the second side 630 intersect orthogonally to define a first comer 632 of the tongue portion 612. In various embodiments, the first comer 432 may be rounded or radiused. In various embodiments, the orthogonal extent of the flange 626 is relatively greater along the first side 628 and relatively reduced along the second side 630. For example, the outward extent “E” of the flange 626 relatively along the first side 428 may be about 0.9 in (23 mm) where about in this context means ± 0.3 in (7.62 mm) and the outward extent of the flange 626 along the second side 630 may be between two thirds and one quarter of E. In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the first side 628 to the second side 630 may be between 1 : 1 and 1.4: 1, or between 1.2:1 and 2: 1, or between 1.2:1 and 3: 1, or between 2: 1 and 3.8: 1.

[0060] In various embodiments, and with additional reference to FIG. 7, the flange 626 may further comprise a mounting feature relief cutout 700. The mounting feature may be cut relatively inward from the outer edge 702 of the flange 626. The inward depth “F” of the cutout may be about 0.5 in (12.7 mm) where about in this context means ± 0.2 in (5.08 mm). In various embodiments, the angle ‘ T defined between a first edge 704 and a second edge 706 of the mounting feature relief cutout 700 may be about 15° where about in this context means ± 5°. In various embodiments, at least two mounting feature relief cutouts 700 are proximate the first side 628 and separated by a distance “G” In various embodiments the distance G may be about 5.0 in (127 mm) where about in this context means ± 3.0 in (76.2 mm).

[0061] With combined reference to FIGs. 8 A through 8E, an air conditioning return adapter 800 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments with xyz-axes provided for reference. Air conditioning return adapter 800 comprises features, geometries, construction, manufacturing techniques, and / or internal components similar to air conditioning return adapter 300 and air conditioning return adapter 600. FIG. 8D illustrates the air conditioning return adapter 800 in cross section through the center plane (dashed line 808 shown in FIG. 8B). Air conditioning return adapter 800 comprises a rectilinear inlet portion 802, a first cylindrical outlet portion 804, and a second cylindrical outlet portion 806. The rectilinear inlet portion 802 defines an inlet face 810. In various embodiments, the inlet face 810 may be proximate to and bounded by a tongue portion 812 of the rectilinear inlet portion 802. In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 802 may include sidewalls 814 which taper distally and relatively away from the inlet face 810 to join the rectilinear inlet portion 802 with the first cylindrical outlet portion 804 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 806 along interface 816

[0062] In various embodiments, the first cylindrical outlet portion 804 defines a first outlet face 818. In like regard, the second cylindrical outlet portion 806 defines a second outlet face 820. Each of the outlet portions (804, 806) may extend along an axis orthogonal to the respective outlet faces (818, 820) relatively away from the sidewalls 814 at the interface 816. In various embodiments, an angle of intersection ‘'I” between an axis 822 orthogonal to the first outlet face 818 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 802 and an axis 824 orthogonal to the second outlet face 820 of the second cylindrical outlet portion 804 is about 120° where about in this context means ± 5°. In various embodiments, the ventral intersection 836 of the first cylindrical outlet portion 802 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 804 may be a knife edge intersection. In this way, turbulence within conditioning return adapter 800 may be reduced as the flow from the rectilinear inlet portion 802 is divided between the firstcylindrical outlet portion 802 and the second cylindrical outlet portion 804. In various embodiments, a ratio of the inlet face 810 area to the total area of the first outlet face 818 and the second outlet face 820 is between 0.4: 1 and 1 : 1, or between 0.5: 1 and 0.8: 1 or between 0.55: 1 and 0.6:1.

[0063] In various embodiments, the rectilinear inlet portion 802 further comprises a flange 826. The flange 826 may extend orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 812 around a first side 828 of the tongue portion 812 of the rectilinear inlet portion 802 and a second side 830 of the tongue portion 812 of the rectilinear inlet portion 802. In various embodiments, the first side 828 and the second side 830 intersect orthogonally to define a first comer 832 of the tongue portion 812. In various embodiments, the first comer 832 may be rounded or radiused. In various embodiments, the orthogonal extent of the flange 826 is relatively greater along the first side 828 and relatively reduced along the second side 830. For example, the outward extent of the flange 826 along the second side 830 may be between two thirds and one eighth of the extent of the flange along the first side 828. In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the first side 828 to the second side 830 may be between 1 : 1 and 1.4: 1 , or between 1.2: 1 and 2: 1 , or between 1.2: 1 and 3: 1 , or between 2:1 and 3.8: 1.

[0064] In various embodiments, and with renewed reference to FIG. 7, the flange 826 may further comprise a mounting feature relief cutout 700. In various embodiments, at least two mounting feature relief cutouts 700 are proximate the first side 828 and at least two mounting feature relief cutouts 700 are proximate a third side 834 of the tongue portion 812. In various embodiments, the third side 834 may be parallel to the first side 828. In like regard to the first side 828, the orthogonal extent of the flange 826 is relatively greater along the third side 828 in contrast to the second side 830. In various embodiments, the outward extent of the flange 826 along the first side 828 and the third side 834 may be equal. In variousembodiments, the outward extent of the flange 826 along a fourth side 838 of the tongue portion 812 may be between two thirds and one eight of the extent of the flange along third side 834.

[0065] With combined reference to FIGs. 9A through 9E, a ventilation adapter 900 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments. FIG. 9A illustrates ventilation return adapter 900 in perspective view. FIGs 9B, 9C, and 9D illustrate air conditioning return adapter 400 with x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis provided for reference as viewed in plane with the respective pair of reference axes. FIG. 9E illustrates the ventilation adapter 900 in cross section through the zx-plane. In various embodiments, ventilation adapter 900 comprises an adapter body 902, an ovoidal inlet portion 904, and a rectilinear outlet portion 906. The adapter body 902 extends relativity between the ovoidal inlet portion 904 and the rectilinear outlet portion 906. The ovoidal inlet portion 904 may define an inlet face 908 of the ventilation adapter 900. In like regard, the rectilinear outlet portion 906 may define an outlet face 910 of the ventilation adapter 900. In various embodiments, the ovoidal inlet portion 904 may have a major axis distance of “K” and a minor axis distance of “L”. In various embodiments, the ratio of L to K may be 1 : 1.32, or may be between 1 : 1.2 and 1 : 1.4, or between 1: 1.4 and 1: 1.5, or between 1 : 1.4 and 1: 1.7, or may be between 1 : 1 and 1:2.2. In various embodiments, the ovoidal inlet portion 904 may include coupling feature 500 proximate the inlet face 908 to facilitate coupling with a flexible duct segment such as the first flexible duct segment 308 or second flexible duct segment 310.

[0066] In various embodiments, the rectilinear outlet portion further comprises a tongue portion 912 and a flange 922. The outlet face 910 may be proximate to and bounded by the tongue portion 912 of the rectilinear outlet portion 906. In various embodiments, adapter body 902 may include first sidewalls 914 which taper distally and relatively away from the ovoidal inlet portion 904 toward the rectilinear outlet portion 906. The adapter body902 may include second sidewalls 916 which taper distally and relatively away from the rectilinear outlet portion 906 toward the ovoidal inlet portion 904 to intersect the first sidewalls 914 along circumferential joint 918 and arcuate joint 920. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a restriction or ‘choke’ in the flow between the inlet face 908 and the outlet face 910 occurs at the interior surface pane defined by the circumferential joint 918 and arcuate joint 920.

[0067] The geometry of the first sidewalls 914 is such that the relatively upstream portion of the adapter body 902 (i.e. between the inlet face 908 and the joints 918, 920) when fed by flow through the inlet face 908 may tend to function as a nozzle. In various embodiments, the geometry of the second sidewalls 916 is such that the relatively downstream portion of the adapter body 902 (i.e. between the outlet face 910 and the joints 918, 920) may tend to function as a diffuser. In this regard, the adapter body may enable fluid communication between the inlet face 908 and the outlet face 910 and tend to promote the laminar flow of fluid through the ventilation adapter 900. In various embodiments, a ratio of the choke surface area (i.e., the curved plane projected inward of the joints (918, 920) to the area of the outlet plane 910 may be between 1 : 1.5 and 1 :2, or may be between 1 : 1.55 and 1 : 1 .75, or may be between 1 : 1.6 and 1 : 1.65. In various embodiments, a ratio of the outlet face 910 area to the inlet face 908 area may be between 1 : 1.5 and 1 : 1.4, or between 1 : 1.4 and 1 : 1.2, or between 1: 1.2 and 1: 16, or between 1 : 1.5 and 1: 1.

[0068] Flange 922 may extend orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 912. In various embodiments, flange 922 extends orthogonally outward of the tongue portion 912 only around a first side 924, a second side 926, and a third side 928, of the tongue portion 912 of the rectilinear outlet portion 906. In various embodiments, the first side 924 of the tongue portion 912 of the rectilinear outlet portion 906 and the second side 926 of the tongue portion 912 of the rectilinear outlet portion 906 intersect orthogonally to define a first comer 930 ofthe tongue portion 912. In various embodiments, the third side 928 is parallel to the first side924. In various embodiments, the flange 922 may extend along the first side 924 and the third side 928 up to a fourth side 932 of the tongue portion 912. The extent of the flange 922 maybe set back from the fourth side 932 by a distance “J’". In various embodiments, the distance J may be about 0.2 in (5.08 mm) where about in this context means ± 0.05 in (1.27 mm). In various embodiments the distance J may be between 0.2 in (5.08 mm) and 0.4 in (10.16 mm), or between 0.2 in (5.08 mm) and 0.8 in (20.32 mm), or between 0.2 in (5.08 mm) and 2 in (50.08 mm).

[0069] In various embodiments, the second sidewalls 916 of adapter body 902 include a long wall 934 and a short wall 936. The long wall 934 is relatively longer than the short wall 936 which asymmetrically offsets the center axis 938 of inlet face 908 of the ventilation adapter 900 and the center axis 940 of the outlet face 910 of the ventilation adapter 900 by a distance “M”. In various embodiments, the distance M may be about 0.7 in (17.8 mm) where about in this context means ± 0.2 in (5.08 mm), or may be between 0.5 in (12.7 mm) and 0.8 in (20.32 mm), or between 0.2 in (5.08 mm) and 2 in (50.08 mm), or between 2 in (50.08 mm) and 3 in (76.2 mm). In various embodiments, the long wall 934 defines an exterior angle “N” between the long wall 934 and the fourth side 932 of the tongue portion 912 where N is between 225° and 250°.

[0070] With combined reference to FIGs. 10A through 10C, a ventilation adapter 1000 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments with xyz-axes provided for reference. Ventilation adapter 1000 comprises features, geometries, construction, manufacturing techniques, and / or internal components similar to a ventilation adapter 900. Ventilation adapter 1000 differs in that the inlet face 1008 of the ovoidal inlet portion 1004 defines an angle “O” between the inlet face 1008 and an axis orthogonal to the outlet face 1010 of the rectilinear outlet portion 1006 between 20° and 40°.

[0071] In various embodiments and with reference to FIG. 11, a method 1100 of assembling a plenum adapter assembly may comprise disposing a plenum adapter assembly into a plenum space of an RV (step 1102). For example, plenum adapter assembly 300 maybe disposed in plenum space 200 of RV 100. Method 100 includes inserting a tongue portion of an air conditioning return adapter into a conditioned air return of the plenum space (step 1104). For example, tongue portion 412 of conditioning return adapter 400 may be inserted into conditioned air return 206 of plenum space 200. Method 1100 includes contacting a flange of the air conditioning return adapter to a surface of the plenum space proximate the conditioned air return and coupling the air condition return adapter to the conditioned air return (step 1106).

[0072] For example, flange 626 of air conditioning return adapter 600 may be contacted with surface 202 of plenum space 200. Fasteners such as screws may be driven through flange 626 at mounting feature relief cutout 700 and adhesive such as glue, epoxy, or tape may be applied between the flange 626 and the surface 202. Method 1100 includes extending a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a first ventilation adapter (step 1 108). For example, first flexible duct segment 308 may be extended relatively away from air conditioning return adapter 302 toward first ventilation outlet 212 such that first ventilation adapter 304 is positioned proximate the first ventilation outlet 212.

[0073] Method 1100 includes inserting a tongue portion of the first ventilation adapter into a first ventilation outlet of the plenum space (step 1110). For example, tongue portion 912 of ventilation adapter 900 may be inserted into first ventilation outlet 212. Method 1100 includes contacting a flange of the first ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the first ventilation outlet and coupling the first ventilation adapter to the first ventilation outlet such that fluid communication is enabled between the firstventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter (step 1112). For example, flange 922 may be contacted with first sidewall 208 proximate first ventilation outlet 212 and an adhesive such as glue or tape may be applied between the first sidewall 208 and the flange 922 to facilitate coupling and enable fluid communication.

[0074] In various embodiments, method 1100 includes extending a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a second ventilation adapter (step 1114). Method 1100 includes inserting a tongue portion of the second ventilation adapter into a second ventilation outlet of the plenum space and contacting a flange of the second ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the second ventilation outlet (step 1116). Method 1100 includes coupling the second ventilation adapter to the second ventilation outlet such that fluid communication is enabled between the second ventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter (step 1 118).

[0075] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosures.

[0076] The scope of the disclosures is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one7’ unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” is used in the claims, it is intended that thephrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Different cross-hatching is used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials.

[0077] Systems, methods and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "an example embodiment", etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiment

[0078] Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A plenum adapter assembly, comprising: an air conditioning return adapter; a first ventilation adapter; a second ventilation adapter; a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with first ventilation adapter; and a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter, wherein the air conditioning return adapter is coupled to each of the first flexible duct segment and the second flexible duct segment, wherein, when in fluid communication with the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter allows fluid communication between the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter, and each of the first ventilation adapter and the second ventilation adapter.

2. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 1. wherein the air conditioning return adapter further comprises: a rectilinear inlet portion defining an inlet face; a first cylindrical outlet portion defining a first outlet face; and a second cylindrical outlet portion defining a second outlet face.

3. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 2, wherein the rectilinear inlet portion further comprises a tongue portion and a flange, wherein the flange extends orthogonally outward of the tongue portion around a first side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear inlet portion and a second side of the tongueportion of the rectilinear inlet portion, wherein the first side and the second side intersect orthogonally to define a first comer of the tongue portion.

4. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 3, wherein the orthogonal extent of the flange is uniform around the first side and the second side.

5. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 3, wherein the orthogonal extent of the flange is relatively greater along the first side along and relatively reduced along the second side.

6. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 5, wherein the flange comprises a mounting feature relief cutout proximate the first side.

7. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 5, wherein the edges of the mounting feature relief cutout define an angle between 10° and 20°.

8. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 3, wherein the tongue portion further comprises a coupling feature proximate the inlet face.

9. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 8, wherein the coupling feature includes a tooth projecting radially outward of the tongue portion, wherein an interface surface of the tooth is chamfered.

10. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 2, wherein an angle of intersection between an axis orthogonal to the first outlet face of the first cylindrical outlet portion and an axis orthogonal to the second outlet face of the second cylindrical outlet portion is between 110°and 145°.

11. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 2, wherein a ratio of the inlet face area to the total area of the first outlet face and the second outlet face is between 0.4: 1 and 1.1: 1.

12. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 1, wherein the first ventilation adapter further comprises: an adapter body; an ovoidal inlet portion defining an inlet face of the ventilation adapter; and a rectilinear outlet portion defining an outlet face of the ventilation adapter; wherein the adapter body extends between the ovoidal inlet portion and the rectilinear outlet portion and enables fluid communication between the inlet face and the outlet face.

13. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 12, wherein the rectilinear outlet portion further comprises a tongue portion and a flange. wherein the flange extends orthogonally outward of the tongue portion only around a first side, a second side, and a third side, of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion, wherein the first side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion and the second side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion intersect orthogonally to define a first comer of the tongue portion the rectilinear outlet portion, wherein the third side of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion is parallel to the first side of the of the tongue portion of the rectilinear outlet portion.

14. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 13, wherein the adapter body includes a long wall and a short wall which asymmetrically offsets the inlet face of the ventilation adapterand the outlet face.

15. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 14, wherein the long wall defines an exterior angle between the long wall and a fourth side of the tongue portion between 230° and 250°.

16. The plenum adapter assembly of claim 13, wherein the inlet face of the ovoidal inlet portion defines an angle between the inlet face and an axis orthogonal to the outlet face of the rectilinear outlet portion between 20° and 40°.

17. A recreational vehicle (RV), comprising: an air conditioning unit including an air intake and a conditioned air return; a plenum space including a first ventilation outlet and a second ventilation outlet, wherein at least one of the air intake or the conditioned air return are in fluid communication with the plenum space; a plenum adapter assembly, comprising: an air conditioning return adapter; a first ventilation adapter; a second ventilation adapter; a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with first ventilation adapter; and a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation adapter, wherein the air conditioning return adapter is coupled to each of the first flexible duct segment and the second flexible duct segment, wherein, when in fluid communication with the conditioned air return, the air conditioning return adapter allows fluid communication between the conditioned air return,the air conditioning return adapter, and each of the first ventilation adapter and the second ventilation adapter.

18. The RV of claim 17, wherein the plenum adapter assembly is disposed entirely within the plenum space.

19. The RV of claim 18, wherein the first ventilation adapter is coupled to and in fluid communication with the first ventilation outlet, and the second ventilation adapter is coupled to and in fluid communication with the second ventilation outlet.

20. A method of assembling a plenum adapter assembly for a recreational vehicle (RV), the method comprising: disposing the plenum adapter assembly into a plenum space of the RV; inserting a tongue portion of an air conditioning return adapter into a conditioned air return of the plenum space; contacting a flange of the air conditioning return adapter to a surface of the plenum space proximate the conditioned air return and coupling the air condition return adapter to the conditioned air return; extending a first flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a first ventilation adapter; inserting a tongue portion of the first ventilation adapter into a first ventilation outlet of the plenum space; contacting a flange of the first ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the first ventilation outlet; coupling the first ventilation adapter to the first ventilation outlet such that fluidcommunication is enabled between the first ventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter; extending a second flexible duct segment coupled to and in fluid communication with the air conditioning return adapter and a second ventilation adapter; inserting a tongue portion of the second ventilation adapter into a second ventilation outlet of the plenum space; contacting a flange of the second ventilation adapter with a surface of the plenum space proximate the second ventilation outlet; and coupling the second ventilation adapter to the second ventilation outlet such that fluid communication is enabled between the second ventilation outlet and the air conditioning return adapter.

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