Adapter for diffuser and duct connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The variability in duct sizes within HVAC systems makes traditional installation processes between ducts and diffusers cumbersome and inefficient, as existing solutions fail to adapt effectively to different diameters.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with a base and radially extending collars of varying heights is designed to couple diffusers to ducts of different sizes, allowing for the removal of specific portions to accommodate different diameters, thereby facilitating a more compact and efficient connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional installation processes are used between ducts and diffusers, then the connection can be made, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and inefficient due to duct size variability
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with multiple collars of different radial distances from the longitudinal axis, allowing a single adapter to accommodate ducts of various sizes. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple different adapters, thereby improving installation efficiency and reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is divided into multiple removable collars that can be selectively removed based on the duct size being connected. This segmentation allows the installation process to be simplified by only removing the necessary collars, making the adapter adaptable to different duct dimensions without requiring complete redesign
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are used to accommodate different duct sizes, then the connection can be optimized for each size, but the part count increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single adapter incorporates multiple collars with different radial distances, enabling one adapter to serve multiple duct sizes. This universal design maintains adaptability while reducing the total number of parts needed in the system
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple collars are arranged concentrically around the longitudinal axis, with each collar nested at a different radial distance. This nested arrangement allows all collars to be integrated into a single adapter body, reducing part count while maintaining the ability to accommodate various duct sizes
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for connecting a duct and a diffuser includes a base configured to be coupled to the diffuser and having a central opening. The adapter also includes a radially inner collar directly coupled to the base and extending circumferentially about a longitudinal axis of the central opening. The adapter also includes a radially intermediate collar directly coupled to the base, extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis, and disposed radially outward from the radially inner collar. The adapter also includes a radially outer collar directly coupled to the base, extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis, and disposed radially outward from the radially intermediate collar. A height of the radially intermediate collar, measured from the base upwardly, is greater than a height of the radially outer collar, and less than a height of the radially inner collar.