Ceiling Air Distribution Assembly for Low-Profile Air Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air distribution apparatuses for air conditioners are complex to manufacture and install, lacking desirable functional aspects and efficient air management solutions.
Innovation Solution
An air distribution apparatus comprising a bracket with a protrusion and an air distribution device, including a template and cover with barrier elements, that mounts to an air conditioning port in a ceiling surface, allowing for easy installation and efficient air distribution by separating supply and return air areas and incorporating an electric box for reduced thickness and enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional air distribution apparatus are used, then air distribution function is provided, but manufacturing complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution apparatus is divided into separate modular components: a ceiling mounting bracket, an air distribution device with template, and a cover assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes while maintaining overall system functionality, directly reducing manufacturing complexity without sacrificing device performance
2Ease of operation
If conventional air distribution apparatus are used, then air distribution function is provided, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling mounting bracket is pre-assembled with the air distribution device and template before installation. The template includes pre-formed barrier elements and mounting features that simplify the installation process. This preliminary assembly reduces on-site installation complexity and time requirements while maintaining the complete air distribution functionality
3Productivity
If barrier elements are added to separate supply and return air areas, then air management efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier elements are integrated directly into the template structure of the air distribution device, merging the air separation function with the existing template component. This integration achieves effective separation of supply and return air areas to improve air management efficiency without adding separate complex structures, thereby avoiding increased device complexity
4Adaptability or versatility
If electric box is incorporated, then functionality is enhanced, but thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric box is nested within the cover assembly structure, utilizing the internal space of the cover to house electrical components. This nesting arrangement enhances functional versatility by incorporating electrical controls while maintaining a low-profile overall thickness, as the electric box does not extend beyond the external dimensions of the cover
Data Source
AI summary
An air distribution apparatus for mounting with respect to an air conditioning port in a ceiling surface is provided. The air distribution apparatus includes at least one bracket and an air distribution device. The at least one bracket includes a body portion and a protrusion extending from the body portion. The protrusion includes an abutment surface configured to abut a ceiling surface while the body portion at least partially extends into an air conditioning port of a ceiling surface. The air distribution device is configured to be mounted to the bracket to distribute air from an air conditioning port in a ceiling surface.