Adjustable Duct Plug Filtration for Debris-Free Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing duct plug solutions for heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems are inadequate in preventing dust and debris from entering duct systems while allowing air flow, as they often rely on temporary covers that may not securely fit various duct sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A duct plug comprising a first and second frame member with a filter member in between, where the filter member extends beyond the frame members and is air-permeable, allowing air passage while inhibiting debris, and a cover plate with adjustable walls for secure fitment within duct openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a temporary vent opening cover is used to prevent debris from entering duct work, then debris prevention is improved, but air flow capability deteriorates due to the need for additional air passages and filter material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a porous filter member that allows air to pass through while blocking debris. The filter member is integrated directly into the duct plug structure, eliminating the need for separate air passages and filter material layers required in conventional covers. This resolves the contradiction by providing debris prevention through porous material while maintaining simple structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-size vent opening cover is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to various duct sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an adjustable sizing mechanism that allows the duct plug to be modified to fit different duct opening sizes. The frame members can be adjusted or reconfigured to match various dimensions, transforming a static component into a dynamic, adaptable solution. This resolves the contradiction by enabling size adaptation while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular design elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows modification of physical parameters such as the size and shape of the duct plug by adjusting the frame members or selecting different pre-configured sizes. This enables the same basic design to adapt to various duct openings without requiring completely different components for each size, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
3Reliability
If a secure fit is achieved through complex fastening mechanisms, then reliability of fitment is improved, but ease of installation and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the duct plug into separate modular components including frame members, filter member, and fastening elements. This segmentation allows for simple assembly and disassembly by connecting and disconnecting individual parts, while still achieving secure fitment when properly assembled. The modular design resolves the contradiction by enabling easy installation through simple component assembly while maintaining reliability through proper structural integration.
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
Effectively prevents dust and debris from entering duct systems while allowing air to pass through, with a secure and adjustable fit that accommodates different duct sizes and shapes, enhancing system cleanliness and airflow.
Implementation Method 1
a filter member disposed between the first frame member and the second frame member... The filter member extends outwardly beyond at least one of the frame members... effectively prevents dust and debris from entering duct systems while allowing air to pass through
Implementation Method 2
The adjustable walls may have corresponding outer faces which form an inner perimeter of the cover plate. The outer faces of the adjustable walls may be in frictional engagement with interior duct walls of the duct system.
Data Source
AI summary
A duct plug for use with a duct opening of a heating, ventilation or air conditioning duct system comprises a first frame member, a second frame member, and a filter member disposed between the first frame member and the second frame member. The first frame member is releasably coupled to the second frame member.