Multi-Purpose Chimney Cap Integrating Satellite Receiver Enclosure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chimney cap devices do not effectively address the unsightliness and vulnerability of satellite transmitters/receivers to wind and weather damage while providing protection and enhanced smoke draw for chimneys.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose chimney cap device that encloses satellite transmitters/receivers, featuring a tubular housing with ventilation openings, a removable heat deflector assembly, and a non-metallic weather shield to protect electronics and enhance smoke draw, while being aesthetically pleasing and durable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite transmitters/receivers are mounted on rooftops, then signal reception is achieved, but they become unsightly additions and are vulnerable to wind and weather damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the satellite transmitter/receiver enclosure with the chimney cap into a single integrated structure. The chimney cap serves dual purposes: protecting the chimney flue and housing the satellite electronics, thereby eliminating the need for separate mounting and improving both aesthetics and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The chimney cap is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the chimney from debris and animals, caps the flue opening, and provides a protected enclosure for satellite transmitters/receivers. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by integrating previously separate functions into one structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a chimney cap is used to protect the flue, then protection from elements and animals is provided, but it does not enclose satellite transmitters/receivers
Solution Approach 1:
The chimney cap is divided into functional segments: the main cap structure for chimney protection, the mounting plate for attachment to the flue, and the enclosed space for electronics. This segmentation allows the structure to accommodate satellite equipment without requiring complete redesign, managing complexity through modular functionality.
3Productivity
If ventilation openings are provided in the chimney cap, then smoke draw is enhanced, but the enclosure for electronics may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The chimney cap features localized ventilation openings positioned to optimize smoke draw while the main body remains enclosed to protect electronics. The heat deflector assembly is strategically positioned to manage thermal effects locally without compromising the overall protective enclosure for sensitive equipment.
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 device provides a protected and aesthetically enhanced enclosure for satellite transmitters/receivers, improving durability against weather and wind, while maintaining effective smoke draw and signal transmission without interfering with satellite communications.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of ventilation openings (18) are provided in the lower portion of the tubular housing (16) to draw ambient atmospheric air into the tubular housing (16) and mix with exhaust gases
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of ventilation openings (18) are provided in the lower portion of the tubular housing (16) to draw ambient atmospheric air into the tubular housing (16) and mix with exhaust gases
Implementation Method 3
A non-metallic weather shield to protect electronics and enhance smoke draw, while being aesthetically pleasing and durable
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-purpose chimney cap device for a flue opening. The device includes a tubular housing with an open lower end surrounding the flue opening and an open upper end. A plurality of ventilation openings in the lower portion of the tubular housing draws air into the tubular housing. A plurality of exit openings are provided near the open upper end of the tubular housing. A removable heat deflector is attached to the open upper end of the tubular housing. A removable non-metal weather shield is fastened to the heat deflector to provide an enclosed chamber between the weather shield and the heat deflector. A receiver/transmitter within the enclosed chamber resides between the weather shield and the heat deflector.