Adjustable bracket for window air conditioner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window air conditioning units face challenges such as difficulty in installation, limited adjustability to fit various window sizes and thicknesses, and safety concerns due to their size and weight, especially when attempting to install them through standard window openings.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable bracket for window air conditioners that includes a base with a platform and an indoor slide base, featuring a ratchet and pawl mechanism for infinite adjustability in width and a quick locking mechanism for easy installation, allowing the bracket to be installed through most standard window openings without fasteners on the indoor side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a standard integrated window A/C unit is installed, then all components are enclosed in a single packaged unit, but the unit occupies a large portion of window space and blocks sunlight and window view
Solution Approach 1:
The A/C unit is divided into two separate components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit contains the compressor and evaporator, while the outdoor unit contains the condenser and fan. These units are connected via refrigerant lines that pass through the window, allowing the indoor unit to be positioned away from the window opening, thus reducing the space occupied at the window while maintaining full functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a saddle-type window A/C unit is installed, then the unit can be mounted on a bracket straddling the window sill, but the feet must be adjusted independently while the heavy unit is being installed, which is cumbersome and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable legs with ratchet mechanisms that allow for dynamic adjustment of the bracket's width and height. The ratchet system provides incremental adjustment capability, enabling the bracket to adapt to various window configurations. Once adjusted, the ratchet mechanism locks the position, providing stability without requiring continuous manual adjustment during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket serves as an intermediary device between the window sill and the A/C unit. It distributes the weight of the A/C unit across multiple contact points on the window sill and provides adjustment capability to accommodate different window dimensions. The bracket's design allows for easy adjustment before the A/C unit is placed, eliminating the need to adjust heavy feet during installation.
3Temperature
If a larger heat pump is added to enable cold weather operation, then the unit can operate at very cold temperatures, but the height and width increase by 6-8 inches and weight increases by 50-90%
Solution Approach 1:
The heat pump system is separated into distinct indoor and outdoor components. The indoor unit houses the compressor and refrigerant circulation system, while the outdoor unit contains the condenser and evaporator coils. This segmentation allows the heat pump to be integrated into the existing A/C unit configuration without requiring a complete redesign, thereby minimizing the increase in overall size and weight while maintaining cold weather operation capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the bracket is made adjustable to fit various window sizes, then adaptability improves, but the bracket complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates telescopic arms with ratchet-based adjustment mechanisms that allow for dynamic resizing of the bracket to match different window dimensions. The ratchet system provides discrete adjustment positions, simplifying the adjustment process while maintaining adaptability. Once adjusted, the mechanism locks securely, providing structural integrity without excessive complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable bracket provides a safer and more secure mounting solution for window air conditioners, allowing for easy installation and adjustability to fit various window sizes and thicknesses, enhancing user safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The locking wheel includes a first slot and a second slot, each having a first end and a second end. The first slot has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is radially disposed at a distance from the shaft that is different from that of the second end
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable bracket for a window air conditioning unit includes a base, an indoor portion, and an outdoor portion. The indoor portion is slidably received within an indoor portion of the base. The outdoor portion is optionally slidably received within an outdoor portion of the base. The indoor portion is optionally adjustable with respect to the base by way of ratchet teeth and pawl engagement or by way of first and second locking cams. The outdoor portion is optionally adjustable with respect to the base by way of ratchet teeth and pawl engagement or by way of multiple fastener openings to receive a pin or a fastener. The adjustability of the indoor and outdoor portions facilitates securely placing the bracket on a window sill.