Climate-Control Connector With Offset Diverter for Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Climate control devices in support devices face challenges such as air blockages and turbulent airflow due to abrupt direction changes and weight compression, which complicates secure attachment and maintenance of air movers to spacer layers and air distribution structures.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a base, offset upper flange, and diverter that smoothly transitions air flow, prevents blockages, and securely attaches air movers to spacer layers or air distribution structures, maintaining connectivity over the device's lifespan while being lightweight and inexpensive to manufacture and install.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If air is moved from the air mover to the spacer layer or air distribution structure, then climate control function is achieved, but abrupt changes in flow path cause backpressure in the system
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates curved surfaces and rounded transitions instead of sharp angles to guide airflow smoothly from the air mover to the spacer layer or air distribution structure. This curvature eliminates abrupt direction changes, reducing turbulence and backpressure while maintaining effective air flow for climate control.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary component between the air mover and the air distribution structure, providing a transition passage that mediates the airflow. This intermediate structure with its optimized geometry reduces the harmful backpressure effect while enabling the necessary air flow for climate control functionality.
2Strength
If the seating portion is compressed by occupant weight, then support function is achieved, but the compression may block the passage or flow of air between the air mover and the air distribution structure
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a separate, rigid component that segments the air flow path from the compression zone. By providing a dedicated air passage through the connector structure, the design ensures that air flow remains uninterrupted even when the seating portion compresses under occupant weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid connector structure provides beforehand protection to the air passage against compression forces. By positioning the connector to span across potential compression zones, it pre-establishes a protected air flow path that prevents blockage before compression occurs.
3Reliability
If the air mover is securely attached to the spacer layer or air distribution structure, then connection reliability is improved, but the attachment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, defines the air passage, and incorporates attachment features for securing the air mover to the spacer layer or air distribution structure. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall attachment process while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as a structural element, an airflow conduit, and an attachment mechanism. This universal design achieves secure attachment without increasing complexity, as one component performs multiple necessary functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a connector, comprising a base including one or more supports extending from the base, a diverter that is offset from the base via the one or more supports, and a passage defined in the base having a size that is substantially the same as a size of the diverter. The diverter is configured to extend through a layer in a climate control device. The diverter restricts the layer from obstructing the passage.