Air Conditioner Installation Frame with Interior Latching Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioner systems installed in window openings are prone to falling and are difficult to install, especially in multi-story buildings, and they lack aesthetic appeal due to their design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The development of air conditioner systems with installation frames that fit within window openings, allowing the unit to be easily slid into and securely latched, using a latching mechanism to prevent falling and featuring a curtain assembly for closure, enabling easy and secure installation and removal without additional support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lip is mounted on the top of the air conditioning unit to prevent it from falling, then the unit is retained in the window opening, but the installation becomes more complex and additional security mechanisms are required on the exterior
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into two independent parts: a lip structure integrated into the air conditioning unit and a corresponding receptacle structure in the window opening. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to provide secure retention without requiring complex additional mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The lip is pre-mounted on the air conditioning unit during manufacturing, and the receptacle is pre-formed in the window opening. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex field assembly and additional security mechanisms, as the retention system is already in place before installation.
2Strength
If the air conditioning unit is made heavy and unwieldy for structural integrity, then the unit is more durable, but it becomes particularly hard to install in windows that do not permit external manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring external manipulation to install the heavy unit, the system is inverted so that the unit is pushed from the interior side of the window. The lip and receptacle design allows the unit to be guided into place and secured from inside, eliminating the need for external handling despite the unit's weight.
3Productivity
If the interior front surface is designed with dominant vents for air intake and exhaust, then the air conditioning function is optimized, but the aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The front surface is designed with different local qualities: the vent areas are optimized for air flow functionality while the surrounding panels can be styled with various finishes, colors, and textures to enhance aesthetic appeal. This allows different parts of the surface to serve different purposes - functional vents and decorative panels.
Data Source
AI summary
Air conditioner systems and methods are provided. In some embodiments, an air conditioner is installed using an installation frame. In some embodiments, an air conditioner system includes a latch mechanism positioned proximate a bottom surface of an air conditioner unit, the latch mechanism having a latch release mechanism and a latch engagement mechanism to engage with a latch recess of a frame body.