Filter frame for an air handling unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air handling unit filter frames are bulky and difficult to maintain due to multiple cavities and retention devices, which can lead to air leaks and noise from loose filter cells, and do not easily accommodate different types or sizes of filter cells.
Innovation Solution
A compact filter frame design featuring a single cavity with a removable lid that secures multiple filter cells together using biasing elements, eliminating separate retention devices and allowing for easy maintenance and adjustment to fit various filter cell configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple cavities and retention devices are used to secure filter cells, then filter cells are securely held in place, but the filter frame becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple cavities and separate retention devices into a single integrated cavity with a unified removable lid structure. The lid incorporates integrated retention features that secure multiple filter cells simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate retention devices in each cavity and reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable lid serves multiple functions: it acts as a closure for the cavity, incorporates retention features to secure filter cells, and provides a unified interface for maintaining multiple filter cells. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized components with a single versatile structure.
2Reliability
If multiple cavities and retention devices are used, then filter cells are securely held, but maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple filter cell retention mechanisms into a single removable lid assembly, the patent enables maintenance personnel to access and replace multiple filter cells through one unified interface, significantly simplifying maintenance procedures compared to accessing individual cavities with separate retention devices.
3Reliability
If separate retention devices are used in each cavity, then filter cells are securely held, but the filter frame size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate retention devices into a single integrated lid structure that spans across the cavity, reducing the overall volume required for retention mechanisms and creating a more compact filter frame design.
4Reliability
If multiple separate retention devices are used, then filter cells are securely held, but air leaks and noise occur from loose filter cells
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated lid structure provides uniform retention pressure across multiple filter cells through a single cohesive design, ensuring consistent sealing and preventing air leaks and noise that can occur with multiple separate retention devices that may not apply pressure uniformly.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A filter frame for an air handling unit, an air handling unit, and a method of assembling a filter frame for an air handling unit are described herein. The filter frame (100) comprises a holder (110) defining a cavity configured to receive a plurality of filter cells (201, 202; 201, 202, 203), and a removable lid (120) configured to secure the plurality of filter cells (201, 202; 201, 202, 203) in the cavity. The removable lid (120) can also comprise a biasing element (130) configured to urge the plurality of filter cells (201, 202; 201, 202, 203) together within the cavity, to assist with securing the plurality of filter cells (201, 202; 201, 202, 203) in the cavity.