Fan Coil Electric Heat Coil Layout for Height-Constrained Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fan coil units face challenges in incorporating an electric heat coil accessory due to size constraints and increased height, which complicates installation and reduces flexibility in warmer climates with reduced heating demand.
Innovation Solution
An electric heat coil assembly is positioned within open spaces adjacent to the heat exchanger assembly in the fan coil unit, supported by a mount plate and powered by a relay, allowing for efficient heating without increasing the overall height of the unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an electric heat coil accessory is mounted to the fan coil unit, then the system can provide both cool and warm air, but the overall height of the fan coil unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric heat coil is repositioned from a vertical extension to a horizontal arrangement within existing open spaces of the fan coil unit. This dimensional change allows the heating component to be integrated without increasing the overall height, solving the contradiction between adding heating capability and maintaining compact vertical profile.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an electric heat coil accessory is mounted to the fan coil unit, then heating functionality is added, but the unit becomes more difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The electric heat coil assembly is merged with the existing fan coil unit structure by utilizing open spaces adjacent to the heat exchanger assembly. The mount plate integrates the heat coil with the unit's internal framework, creating a unified assembly that simplifies installation compared to separate auxiliary components.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric heat coil is nested within the existing open spaces of the fan coil unit structure. This nesting approach allows the heating component to be housed within the unit's internal volume rather than adding external protrusions, making the unit easier to handle and install.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an electric heat coil accessory is mounted to the fan coil unit, then dual heating and cooling capability is achieved, but the unit exceeds size envelopes in many applications
Solution Approach 1:
The electric heat coil is positioned in specific local open spaces adjacent to the heat exchanger assembly where available volume exists. This localized placement utilizes otherwise wasted space within the unit's footprint, adding heating capability without expanding the overall size envelope required by the application.
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 configuration reduces the fan coil unit's height by approximately eight to ten inches, enhancing installation flexibility and maintaining the ability to provide both heating and cooling without exceeding size envelopes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electric heat coil
Implementation Method 2
an evaporator for transferring heat energy from the indoor air to be conditioned to the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator
Data Source
AI summary
An electric heat coil assembly for use adjacent a heat exchanger assembly in a fan coil unit is provided including at least one electric heat coil. A mount plate supports the at least one electric heat coil such that the at least one electric heat coil extends from the mount plate. The mount plate includes an edge configured to connect to the heat exchanger assembly. At least one relay is coupled to the at least one electric heat coil. The at least one relay selectively applies power to the electric heat coil.