Assemblies for supporting air conditioning units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning unit support brackets require tools and disassembly for adjustment, making them complex and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable air conditioner support assembly with moveable support pieces and mechanisms that allow length adjustment without tools or disassembly, utilizing features like slots, notches, channels, and locking pins for easy length adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If typical air conditioning support brackets are made adjustable to fit various locations and sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and requires tools/disassembly for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is divided into multiple segments (first support piece and second support piece) that can move relative to each other. The first support piece includes a body with a slot and notches, while the second support piece includes channels with slots. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each segment to achieve different lengths and configurations without requiring complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support bracket transitions from a static, fixed-length structure to a dynamic, adjustable-length structure. The first and second support pieces are connected through movable joints (shoulder bolt and locking pin mechanisms) that allow the bracket to change its configuration and length dynamically. The spring element provides continuous adjustment capability, enabling the bracket to adapt to various installation requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If typical air conditioning support brackets are made adjustable to fit various locations and sizes, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring tools and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, eliminating the need for external tools. The locking pin fits into slots on the shoulder bolt to lock the adjustment in place, and the spring element automatically maintains tension and positioning. Users can simply move the second support piece along the slot and engage the locking pin without requiring wrenches, screwdrivers, or other tools, making the adjustment process intuitive and tool-free.
3Manufacturing precision
If typical air conditioning support brackets require tools and disassembly for adjustment, then manufacturing precision may be maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to complex adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is pre-configured with slots, notches, and a locking pin mechanism during manufacturing. The slot in the body and the corresponding slots in the channels are precisely positioned and sized to accommodate the locking pin. This preliminary preparation of adjustment features ensures that during installation, users can quickly adjust the bracket length by simply moving components and engaging the pre-positioned locking mechanisms, significantly reducing adjustment time while maintaining manufacturing precision.
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
Enables simple and tool-free adjustment of air conditioning unit support assemblies, providing flexibility and convenience in fitting various locations and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
A spring element is disposed within the slot of the upper arm and coupled to the carrier bracket, wherein the spring element is configured to bias the carrier bracket towards the upper arm
Data Source
AI summary
An air conditioner support assembly includes an upper arm having a body having a top face and a bottom face, and a pair of sidewalls extending from the body. A slot is formed in the body and a plurality of notches are formed the pair of sidewalls. A lower arm has a main surface and a pair of side surfaces. A carrier bracket is shaped and sized to fit within the upper arm bottom face and the pair of sidewalls of the upper arm, the carrier bracket coupled to the lower arm via a coupling pin. A shoulder bolt extends through the slot of the upper arm and an opening of the carrier bracket. A spring element is disposed within the slot of the upper arm and coupled to the carrier bracket.