Adjustable Air Handler Sling for Variable Unit and Drain Pan Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC unit mounting systems lack flexibility in accommodating HVAC units of varying heights and widths, and do not efficiently support emergency drain pans, limiting their adaptability and stability.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a telescoping air handler support unit composed of adjustable arms and J-shaped bars with coupling sleeves and extension members, allowing for horizontal and vertical adjustments to fit different HVAC unit dimensions, and incorporating a design to securely support both the unit and an emergency drain pan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting system is used for HVAC units, then the installation process is simple, but the system cannot accommodate HVAC units of varying heights and widths
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable arms with telescoping sections that can be extended or retracted to accommodate different HVAC unit dimensions. The arms feature adjustment mechanisms allowing workers to modify the span and height of the support structure on-site, transforming a static mounting system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying unit sizes while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components including separate arms, crossbars, and support elements that can be independently adjusted and configured. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific functions while providing flexibility in overall system configuration to match different HVAC unit dimensions
2Reliability
If a simple hanger design is used, then the installation is quick, but the system lacks stability and security for supporting HVAC units and drain pans
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system integrates multiple support functions into a unified structure that simultaneously supports both the HVAC unit and the emergency drain pan. The arms and crossbars are configured to provide both primary structural support and secondary support for the drain pan, eliminating the need for separate independent hangers while enhancing overall system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger configuration includes adjustable and movable components that can be dynamically positioned to optimize support points. The arms can be adjusted to different angles and positions to distribute weight effectively, providing enhanced stability and security for both the HVAC unit and drain pan while maintaining ease of installation
3Manufacturing precision
If custom mounting systems are designed for each HVAC unit size, then the fit is precise, but the manufacturing and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple HVAC unit sizes and configurations through its adjustable components. The standardized arms, crossbars, and support elements can be configured to fit various unit dimensions, eliminating the need to manufacture separate custom mounting systems for different HVAC unit sizes while maintaining precise fit through on-site adjustment
4Productivity
If multiple separate hangers are used for HVAC units and drain pans, then the support is adequate, but the installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the support functions for both the HVAC unit and the emergency drain pan into a single integrated mounting structure. The arms and crossbars are configured to simultaneously support both components, reducing the number of separate hangers needed and streamlining the installation process while maintaining adequate support for both elements
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for hanging a High Voltage Air Conditioning unit having an arm attached at its top end to a support member, a bar slidably coupled to the arm having a first horizontally extending arm at the bottom of the bar to form a J bar, and a second horizontally extending arm attached to the bottom of the J bar above the first horizontally extending arm. Clearance openings in the arm and J bar for fasteners for attaching the arm to the J bar to raise or lower the horizontally extending arms for units of different heights. Coupling sleeves coupled to the horizontally extending arms and extension member have lengths that provide for HVAC units of different widths and are adapted to be removably attached to coupling sleeves on an opposing J bar. The second horizontally extending arm and extension member provides support an HVAC unit; and the first provides to support a drain pan.