Modular Air Conditioner Curb Brackets for Seismic Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional preassembled air conditioner curbs are structurally inadequate to withstand seismic forces and deformation, leading to stability issues during installation and operation.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioner support system featuring corner-mounted support brackets with inner and outer segments that securely fasten curb frame side walls, providing enhanced structural strength and stability, allowing for on-site assembly and efficient transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pre-manufactured and assembled curbs are used, then installation is simplified, but structural strength and stability are insufficient to resist seismic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The curb is divided into modular segments that can be pre-manufactured and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for simplified installation while maintaining structural integrity through proper joint design and connection mechanisms between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The curb structure utilizes composite construction combining metal framing members with reinforcing elements. This composite approach enhances structural strength and seismic resistance while allowing for modular assembly and installation simplicity.
2Weight of moving object
If lightweight curbs are used, then transportation and storage efficiency improve, but structural strength becomes inadequate to prevent deformation under seismic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The curb employs composite material construction that optimizes the strength-to-weight ratio. Lightweight metal alloys and hollow structural sections provide adequate seismic resistance while minimizing weight for efficient transportation and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design allows each component to be optimized for lightweight construction while the overall assembly achieves required structural strength through distributed load paths and connection systems.
3Loss of time
If curbs are pre-assembled off-site, then installation time is reduced, but transportation efficiency decreases due to bulky assembled units
Solution Approach 1:
The curb system is segmented into compact modular units that can be efficiently transported and stored. These segments are designed for rapid on-site assembly, reducing installation time while maximizing transportation and storage efficiency through compact packaging.
Data Source
AI summary
An air conditioner support includes a curb frame having side walls forming corners and a support bracket at each corner secured to end portions of the side walls. End portions of adjacent side walls are sandwiched between an inner bracket segment and an outer bracket segment and secured in place by threaded fasteners.