Air Intake System With Temperature-Sensitive Foam Plug

The air intake system is divided into multiple separate air inlet ducts (first air inlet duct and second air inlet duct), each serving different functions. The first duct is positioned for debris protection while the second duct is positioned for cool air intake, allowing the system to simultaneously achieve both protection and low temperature air supply by using separate pathways rather than a single compromised inlet location.

A foam plug is introduced as an intermediary component in the second air inlet duct to control airflow based on temperature conditions. The foam plug expands when exposed to heat, automatically blocking the duct during high temperature periods to prevent hot air intake, and contracts or becomes permeable when cool, allowing cool air intake. This intermediary material resolves the contradiction by dynamically adapting to temperature changes without requiring active mechanical control systems.

The foam plug serves as a self-regulating flow control mechanism that responds automatically to temperature changes without requiring external control systems. When the temperature rises, the foam expands and blocks the duct automatically; when temperature decreases, the foam contracts or opens to allow airflow. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex electronic controls, sensors, and actuators while maintaining effective airflow control capability.

The patent replaces complex mechanical flow control valves with a thermally-responsive foam plug that uses material property changes (expansion and contraction) to control airflow. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical linkages, actuators, and control electronics, significantly reducing system complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining the ability to control airflow based on environmental conditions.

The foam plug is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Compared to complex mechanical valves that require precision machining, seals, and actuation mechanisms, the foam plug can be produced through relatively simple molding processes. Its low cost and simplicity make it an economically viable solution for protecting the air intake system during inclement weather conditions.

The foam plug utilizes changes in its physical parameters (volume, density, permeability) in response to temperature changes to control airflow. When temperature increases, the foam expands and blocks the duct; when temperature decreases, it contracts or becomes permeable. This parameter-based control mechanism eliminates the need for complex mechanical valves, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining effective protection capability.