Attic Roof Vent With Diverter for Wind-Driven Moisture Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passive roof vents allow moisture, such as rain and snow, to enter the attic due to design flaws that cause precipitation to accumulate and be driven into the vent structure, and they can leak during extreme weather conditions, leading to moisture buildup and potential mildew growth.
Innovation Solution
A passive vent design featuring a base member with a flat mounting surface, a dome-shaped top member, and a splash plate or diverter plate that prevents moisture from entering by directing air flow downward and using a snap-fit post system for secure assembly, ensuring a water-tight seal and effective ventilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a cap member is positioned over the vent structure to prevent rain and snow from falling directly into the vent, then protection against moisture is improved, but snow can still accumulate at the base and be driven up under the cap by wind, allowing moisture to enter the enclosure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a downward-sloping diverter surface that redirects precipitation along the exterior surface of the vent structure downward away from the opening, adding a dimensional element (sloped surface) to prevent accumulation and wind-driven entry of snow and rain
Solution Approach 2:
The diverter acts as an intermediary element between the cap member and the vent opening, intercepting precipitation and redirecting it away from the vulnerable opening area where cap gaps allow entry
2Productivity
If the vent structure allows air flow through the passage, then ventilation function is improved, but moisture such as rain or snow can enter the enclosure through the passage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different functional qualities to different parts of the vent structure: the cap member provides open-area coverage for ventilation while the diverter provides a sloped, continuous surface for moisture redirection, and the base provides structural support with a sealed opening
3Productivity
If the cap member is spaced apart from the base to allow air to flow between the cap and the base, then ventilation is improved, but this spacing creates pathways for wind-driven snow and rain to reach the vent structure
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter serves as an intermediary barrier within the spaced gap between cap and base, intercepting wind-driven precipitation and redirecting it downward before it can reach the vent opening, while still allowing air flow through the spaced construction
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
The solution effectively restricts the inflow of moisture, preventing snow and rain from entering the attic and maintaining a dry environment, even during extreme weather, while ensuring proper ventilation and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a passive vent design featuring a base member with a flat mounting surface, a dome-shaped top member, and a splash plate or diverter plate that prevents moisture from entering by directing air flow downward
Implementation Method 2
using a snap-fit post system for secure assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A passive venting device for venting enclosures comprising a base member, an intermediate splash member including a diverter, and a top, dome-shaped member. In a preferred embodiment, the diverter may be molded as a single unit of manufacture with the base member. The venting device allows air and other gases to escape from within an enclosure to be vented while preventing the incursion of moisture in the form or rain or snow into the enclosure.