Evaporative cooler with pressurized water distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current evaporative coolers have inefficiencies due to the need for precise vertical alignment of evaporative media pads, limited airflow, and increased height requirements, which affect cooling efficiency and aesthetics, as well as complex installation and maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A pressurized water distribution system that includes a combination of pressurized and non-pressurized flow paths, eliminating the need for precise vertical alignment and reducing the overall height by integrating a distribution assembly with a pressurized manifold and gravity distribution elements, allowing for even water distribution and increased active cooling area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If gravity distribution is used, then water distribution is simple, but precise vertical alignment of evaporative media pads is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies hydraulic principles by using pressurized water distribution through a manifold system with multiple outlets. Water is forced under pressure through channels in the distribution assembly, eliminating reliance on gravity alone. This hydraulic approach allows water to reach evaporative media pads at multiple locations simultaneously without requiring precise vertical alignment, as the pressurized flow can overcome minor misalignments and distribute water effectively across the media pads.
2Device complexity
If traditional water distribution system is used, then structure is simple, but height is increased due to gap and header block
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the distribution assembly with the evaporative media pad support structure. The distribution assembly is positioned directly adjacent to the evaporative media pads, eliminating the traditional gap and header block configuration. This integration combines multiple functions into a single compact structure, reducing the overall height while maintaining effective water distribution capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a vertically-oriented gravity distribution system to a more horizontally-integrated pressurized distribution system. By using pressurized channels within the distribution assembly that extend toward the evaporative media pads, the system distributes water in multiple directions simultaneously, reducing the need for vertical clearance and allowing for a more compact overall height.
3Volume of moving object
If evaporative media pads are positioned adjacent to housing sides, then structure is compact, but airflow is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removable retaining frame that allows the evaporative media pads to be dynamically positioned. The retaining frame can be adjusted or removed to optimize airflow paths while maintaining the compact housing structure. This dynamic positioning capability enables the system to balance between compactness and airflow efficiency depending on operational requirements.
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
This solution enhances cooling efficiency by up to 24% and simplifies installation and maintenance, enabling the evaporative cooler to be installed at angles and reducing the overall height, thus improving aesthetics and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a pressurized water distribution system that includes a combination of pressurized and non-pressurized flow paths
Implementation Method 2
integrating a distribution assembly with a pressurized manifold and gravity distribution elements
Implementation Method 3
air is drawn through the sides of the housing of the evaporative cooler and over one or more wet evaporative media pads, thereby evaporating water within the evaporative media pads and reducing the temperature of the passing air
Data Source
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AI summary
An evaporative cooler having a pressurized water distribution system that provides even water distribution to evaporative media pads within the evaporative cooler, even when the evaporative pads are canted and/or are not in perfect alignment. The pressurized water distribution system generally includes a distribution assembly with a pressurized flow path portion and a non-pressurized flow path portion, and a supply assembly. The evaporative cooler may also include other features that enhance aesthetics and/or cooling capacity, such as supplemental evaporative media pads, a perforated lid, an internal retaining frame, angled louvers, and/or a dropper that allows for a low-profile installation on a roof of a building or other structure.