Air Register Actuation Layout for Multi-Direction Airflow Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air-conditioning register systems require multiple actuators to adjust airflow direction, leading to a complex and larger structure, which complicates the adjustment mechanism and increases size.

Innovation Solution

The air-conditioning register incorporates a retainer with movable members and a single actuator that utilizes conversion mechanisms to convert rotation into motion in multiple directions, actuating the movable members to adjust airflow direction without the need for multiple motors, thereby simplifying the structure and reducing size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple actuators are used to adjust airflow direction vertically and laterally, then the airflow direction control capability is improved, but the device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow direction control capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple actuators (vertical actuator and lateral actuator) into a single integrated actuator unit. The actuator case houses both actuators, and the common support structure provides a unified mounting platform, merging previously separate components into one compact assembly that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining full airflow direction control capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The common support structure serves multiple functions: it supports both the vertical and lateral actuators, provides mounting surfaces for multiple louvers, and acts as a structural framework for the entire airflow direction control mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate support structures for each actuator, thereby reducing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple actuators are used to adjust airflow direction, then the airflow direction control capability is improved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow direction control capabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where the lateral actuator and vertical actuator are housed within the actuator case, with the common support structure providing internal mounting surfaces. The louvers are nested within the housing and connected to the actuators through the support structure. This nesting arrangement allows multiple components to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, significantly reducing the overall device size while maintaining full control capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

This configuration allows for independent adjustment of airflow direction and the integration of a slide cover to impart fragrance, enhancing airflow control and reducing the system's complexity and size.

Implementation Method 1

multiple conversion mechanisms that convert rotation of the actuator into motion in directions in which the movable members move

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical conversion: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS20240383315A1Air-conditioning register
Publication Date: 2024.11.21 TOYODA GOSEI CO LTD
  • US20240383315A1 patent drawing
  • US20240383315A1 patent drawing
  • US20240383315A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An air-conditioning register includes a retainer that forms a vent passage for air-conditioning air, multiple movable members that are attached to the retainer and movable in different directions, an actuator that rotates to actuate the movable members, and multiple conversion mechanisms that convert rotation of the actuator into motion in directions in which the movable members move, thereby actuating the movable members.