Wall-Mounted Air Handler Cleaning Bib with Bracket-Supported Funnel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning systems for mini-split air conditioning units lack effective components to manage and direct spent cleaning fluids and debris, leading to potential damage and contamination during cleaning operations, and are cumbersome and impractical for high-mounted units.
Innovation Solution
A conical, flexible plastic bib with an arcuate rib and adjustable cord system is used to collect and direct cleaning fluids from mini-split air handler assemblies, providing stability and protection against spillage, with side brackets securing the bib in place without the need for multiple straps or cumbersome setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a strong elastic band is used to attach the wash bag to the air conditioning unit, then the bag can be secured to the unit, but the mouth of the bag cannot be kept open and fluids cannot be easily received
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a U-shaped mounting member that attaches to the unit, and a separate cord system that independently holds the bag open. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively - the U-shaped member provides secure attachment while the cord maintains the bag mouth open for fluid reception
Solution Approach 2:
A U-shaped mounting member acts as an intermediary between the air conditioning unit and the collection bag. This intermediary component provides a dedicated attachment structure that doesn't interfere with the bag's ability to receive fluids, solving the conflict between secure mounting and ease of fluid reception
2Device complexity
If the collection bag is suspended without wall brackets or shielding, then the setup is simpler, but the supporting wall is vulnerable to damage from splashing fluids and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shaped mounting member serves multiple functions: it secures the collection bag to the air conditioning unit, provides structural support for the bag, and acts as a protective barrier that shields the wall from splashing fluids and debris. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional protective components
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple straps are used to secure the collection means, then the setup is more stable, but the assembly becomes cumbersome and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a U-shaped mounting member for attachment and a separate cord system for securing the bag. This segmentation simplifies the overall assembly process while maintaining stability, as each component can be installed and adjusted independently
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an adjustable cord with a cord lock that allows dynamic adjustment of the bag position and tension. This dynamic element provides the necessary stability while enabling easy installation and adjustment without multiple fixed straps
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus 12 for collecting waste cleaning fluid and debris resulting from a cleaning operation of a wall-mounted air handler assembly 10 of a mini-split air conditioner. The apparatus 12 is installed by placing and supporting a funnel- shaped collection bib 14 under the air handler assembly by means of device-mounting brackets 18,28 and a deflector plate D inserted between the air handler assembly 10 and the wall W, the bib 14 being held open by an arcuate rib 16 attached to the mounting brackets 18,28 and by a supporting cord 20 passing through the rib, brackets, and bib hem 14b and being cinched against the device 12.