Air Duct Filter Apparatus with Tool-Free Access for Easy Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air filtration systems in air circulating systems require labor-intensive processes to access and replace filters, as they often necessitate removing registers or vents from walls, which is time-consuming and visually unappealing when external filters are used.
Innovation Solution
An air duct filter apparatus that positions a removable air filter behind the register or vent, allowing easy access and replacement without tools, maintaining a visually similar appearance to existing systems and integrating with existing duct systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If air filters are positioned inside the duct behind the register, then air quality is improved by filtering discharged air, but access to the filter becomes difficult requiring removal of the register
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate components: a register cover that remains mounted on the wall, and a filter holder assembly that can be independently removed. This segmentation allows the filter to be accessed by removing only the filter holder, not the entire register cover, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining air quality filtration.
Solution Approach 2:
The air filter is extracted from the deep interior of the duct and positioned in a holder that extends to the exterior surface of the register. This allows the filter to be accessed from the outside by simply removing the filter holder, eliminating the need to remove the entire register while still filtering air effectively.
2Ease of operation
If external filter apparatus are mounted on the register, then filter access is simplified, but the visual appearance is altered and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder assembly is merged with the register cover design, using the same materials and finishing. The holder becomes an integrated part of the register's aesthetic structure, so when installed it maintains the visual appearance of a standard register, yet provides easy filter access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The register cover serves multiple functions: it provides the structural mounting to the wall, maintains the aesthetic appearance of the register, and incorporates the filter holder assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate external filter apparatus, maintaining visual appearance while simplifying filter access.
3Ease of repair
If the register is removed from the wall to access the filter, then filter replacement is enabled, but time is lost and the wall opening is exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The register system is segmented into a permanent wall-mounted cover and a removable filter holder. This allows filter replacement by removing only the lightweight holder component, dramatically reducing access time compared to removing the entire heavy register assembly, while the wall opening remains covered by the permanent cover.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holder is designed to be pre-assembled with the filter inside, allowing the entire filter unit to be quickly removed and replaced as a single component. This preliminary preparation enables rapid filter replacement without needing to manipulate multiple separate parts, reducing time loss significantly.
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 quick and tool-free inspection, cleaning, and replacement of air filters, reducing dust, pollen, and other contaminants in discharged air, enhancing air quality without altering the visual appearance or increasing costs.
Implementation Method 1
an air filter that is configured and selected to filter the air so as to remove dirt, dust, pollen and other materials from the air
Data Source
AI summary
An air duct filter apparatus for filtering air discharged from an air duct into a room, vehicle or other space at a duct opening in a surface. The apparatus has a venting device, such as a register or vent, that fits within the duct opening. A pair of filter brackets on the venting device support an air filter behind a venting area, typically having louvers, of the venting device. Preferably, the air filter is sized to frictionally engage the filter brackets so it will be held in place but be easily removable from the brackets. A pair of duct brackets are mounted to the surface on opposite sides of the duct opening. A connecting mechanism connects the venting device with the duct brackets in a manner that allows the venting device to be pulled away from the surface to inspect, clean or replace the air filter without using tools.