Air Diffuser With Movable Inner Strip to Prevent Vortex Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air diffusers in air conditioning installations face challenges with assembly complexity and high costs due to permanent mechanical connections, which compromise acoustic and aerodynamic performance by allowing vortex generation, limiting airflow and acoustic comfort.
Innovation Solution
A diffuser design featuring a pair of outer profiles with an inner strip connected via a fixing bridge, allowing horizontal and vertical movement without tools, preventing vortex formation by adjusting air channel closure and opening, and utilizing curved surfaces for improved airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If permanent mechanical connection systems (riveting, connection tubes, screwing) are used to assemble outer profiles, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase, and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces permanent mechanical connection systems (riveting, screwing, connection tubes) with a friction-based mechanical interference system. The fixing bridge uses a friction fit insertion system where components are pressed together through elastic deformation and friction forces, eliminating the need for tools, holes, or permanent fasteners while maintaining structural integrity.
2Productivity
If conventional diffusers allow air flow through fixed channels, then air supply function is achieved, but vortex generation occurs below the deflector element, worsening acoustic behavior and limiting maximum operating flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable inner strip that can shift position within the air channel based on airflow conditions. This dynamic element adjusts the air channel closure and opening to optimize flow patterns, preventing vortex formation while maintaining acoustic comfort across a wider range of operating flows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a third dimension to the air directing system by enabling the inner strip to move vertically as well as horizontally. This three-dimensional adjustment capability allows the strip to combine transverse movement with vertical position adjustment, creating more effective flow control and vortex prevention.
3Ease of manufacture
If the inner strip is fixed in position, then assembly simplicity is improved, but aerodynamic performance is compromised due to vortex generation and limited airflow control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-adjusting mechanism where the inner strip automatically positions itself based on airflow pressure and direction. The friction-based fixing bridge allows the strip to move freely to its optimal position without requiring external actuation or complex control systems, achieving both assembly simplicity and aerodynamic performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a diffuser for air conditioning installations comprising a pair of outer profiles (1) and an inner strip (2) located between both outer profiles (1) by means of at least one fixing bridge (3), where said inner strip (2) can be located in a first position and a second position with respect to the fixing bridge (3), wherein in said second position, the inner strip (2) is vertically and horizontally moved with respect to said first position. The present invention allows better airflow cooperation, allowing the closure of the air channel in one of the positions to prevent the generation of vortices which compromise the acoustic characteristic, and the opening of the air channel in the other position to balance out the head loss in both positions.