Assembly, kit and method for securing a covering to an air intake face
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter screen assemblies for air intake structures lack a secure and versatile method to attach filters or coverings to the perimeter of air intake openings, particularly in HVAC equipment, as they often require complex mounting systems or leave gaps between the covering and mounting tracks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising elongated 'U' shaped rails secured to the air intake structure using magnets, adhesive tape, or fasteners, with slidable fasteners that project through channels to secure a filter screen or covering, featuring grommets and washers for a snug fit, allowing for easy installation and removal, and adaptable to various opening types including windows and doors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filter screens are affixed to the surrounding fascia or suspended from a curtain rod, then the screens can cover the intake opening, but gaps exist between the covering and the mounting structure
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into discrete track sections that can be independently positioned and secured to the fascia. Each track segment can be attached at specific locations and joined to form a complete perimeter framework, allowing precise alignment to eliminate gaps while maintaining modular simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
A track or rail system serves as an intermediary element between the fascia and the filter screen. This intermediate structure provides a continuous mounting surface that bridges the gap between the fixed fascia and the flexible screen material, ensuring tight contact throughout the perimeter without requiring direct attachment of the screen to the fascia itself
2Reliability
If a rigid mounting system is used to secure the covering tightly, then the seal is improved, but installation and removal become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates dynamic fastening mechanisms that transition between locked and released states. Clips and latches can be engaged to secure the filter screen tightly to the tracks during operation, then easily disengaged for installation or removal, providing both tight sealing and operational ease without requiring permanent fixation
Solution Approach 2:
The track system is pre-assembled and secured to the fascia before the filter screen is installed. This preliminary preparation creates a ready-made framework with pre-positioned attachment points, allowing the filter screen to be quickly snapped or clipped into place without complex alignment procedures, thus maintaining tight seals while simplifying installation
3Ease of operation
If a simple mounting method is used, then installation is easy, but the covering may not be securely attached
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system employs self-aligning and self-securing features where the filter screen's perimeter elements (such as reinforced edges or integrated loops) automatically engage with corresponding receptacles on the tracks. This self-service mechanism ensures secure attachment through the natural geometry of the components while requiring minimal manual intervention or complex tools for installation
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
Provides a secure, adjustable, and versatile attachment method for filter screens or coverings on air intake structures, ensuring a tight seal and easy installation across different configurations, accommodating various sizes and types of openings.
Implementation Method 1
elongated supports each include a modified 'U' cross sectional shaped rail which is initially secured, such as via magnets, adhesive tape or fasteners
Implementation Method 2
elongated supports each include a modified 'U' cross sectional shaped rail which is initially secured, such as via magnets, adhesive tape or fasteners
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening system for applying, over an opening and surrounding fascia of a structure, a covering material including either of a flexible or rigid outer reinforced extending perimeter within which is configured a plurality of receiving apertures. At least one elongated rail adapted to being secured to the fascia in extending fashion proximate the opening, each of the rails exhibiting a three dimensional cross sectional shape with a forwardly projecting support surface within which is configured an outwardly facing narrowed slot. A plurality of fasteners each include a planar shaped base installable through an accessible end location of each of the rails so as to be traversable along an interior channel defined in the rail. A further rotatable portion of each fastener projects from the insertable base through the outwardly facing slot and in order to be rotated from a first position aligning with and seating over perimeter defined receiving apertures of the covering material to a second position in order to affix the material.