Air distribution box
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air distribution boxes in ventilation systems require lengthy installation times due to difficulties in connecting flexible pipes with collars or flanges, are prone to unstable connections, and are susceptible to errors and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
An air distribution box with slideable plates and hidden locking/release mechanisms, allowing easy alignment and secure attachment of flexible pipes without additional equipment, using hidden locking and grip means to stabilize the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional flexible pipes with metal cores are used to connect to collars or flanges, then the pipes tend to return to a cylindrical shape, but this makes installation difficult and time-consuming due to shape mismatch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the collar shape changeable from oval to circular. The collar is designed with flexible elements that allow it to deform during installation to match the oval shape of the flexible pipe, then maintain a stable circular shape for secure connection. This dynamic shape transformation resolves the contradiction between shape stability and installation ease.
2Reliability
If clamping means with elastic tabs and through holes are used to connect ducts and expansions, then stable connection is achieved, but installation time increases due to hole alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the collar on the duct before final assembly. The collar is attached to the duct in advance, and its shape can be adjusted to match the flexible pipe dimensions beforehand. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for precise hole alignment during installation, reducing installation time while maintaining connection stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If exposed toothed racks and slip-clutch teeth are used for flange positioning, then adjustable positioning is achieved, but the system becomes susceptible to dust and dirt accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the traditional approach: instead of having exposed adjustment mechanisms that are vulnerable to contamination, the collar positioning is achieved through internal elastic elements and pre-positioning. The adjustment mechanism is concealed within the collar structure, protecting it from dust and dirt while maintaining position adaptability.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional installation methods are used, then connections can be made, but installation technicians require special equipment and extensive time for alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the collar with self-aligning features. The elastic elements and pre-positioned collar automatically adjust to match the flexible pipe dimensions without requiring external alignment tools or special equipment. The system serves itself by using the inherent elasticity and geometry of components to achieve proper alignment, eliminating the need for complex installation equipment.
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
Facilitates rapid and error-free installation, maintains stable connections, and simplifies maintenance by reducing installation time and preventing accidental pipe extraction.
Implementation Method 1
each one having a base associated with the box-like body or directly with the expansion, and each tab has a free end which can be mated with a special through hole provided on the expansion. The air conveyance duct has corresponding through holes which are adapted to be superimposed on the through holes of the expansion, so that inserting the free end of an elastic tab into the respective hole prevents, by interference fit, uncoupling between the duct and the expansion.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
Air distribution box (1), comprising a box-like body (2) which has a first opening (7) for access for at least one flexible pipe (8) for ducting the air flow, and a pair of plates (9a, 9b), opposite each other and able to slide with respect to the box-like body (2), each one comprising a flange (17a, 17b) for coupling to the flexible pipe (8); the pair of plates (9a, 9b) comprises first means, hidden from view, for locking/release (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) which interact with second means for temporary grip (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) which are provided and partially hidden from view on the box-like body (2) for the activation at desired and distinct presettable positions of the pair of plates (9a, 9b) with respect to the box-like body (2). Each one of the pair of plates (9a, 9b) is associated with a handle (16a, 16b) which can be gripped by the user.