Flex duct connection system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing duct connection methods in HVAC systems, such as those using sheet metal screws, mastic, and adhesive tape, fail to provide a reliable and airtight seal between rigid and flexible ducts, leading to energy loss due to leaks in unconditioned spaces.
Innovation Solution
A duct connection system featuring interlocking duct connectors with sealing members that compress to form a seal between rigid and flexible ducts, utilizing annular ridges and securing members to ensure an air-tight connection, allowing for easy assembly and installation while accommodating various duct configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection methods (sheet metal screws, mastic, adhesive tape) are used to connect rigid and flexible ducts, then the installation process is simple, but the connection reliability and airtight seal are insufficient leading to energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing member is introduced as an intermediary component between the rigid duct and flexible duct to create an airtight seal. The sealing member compresses against both surfaces to prevent air leakage, directly addressing the energy loss problem while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional components: a rigid duct connector, a flexible duct connector, and a separate sealing member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the connectors provide structural attachment while the sealing member provides the airtight seal.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional connection methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the manufacturing precision and seal quality are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member is pre-installed in the connector assembly before final duct connection. This beforehand cushioning ensures that the seal is already in place and properly positioned, guaranteeing seal quality while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through modular design.
3Loss of energy
If a secure seal is created between rigid and flexible ducts, then energy loss is reduced, but the installation time and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member is integrated with the duct connectors in a unified assembly. This merging of functions allows the seal to be created as part of the connection process itself, reducing installation time while maintaining the energy-saving benefits of a secure seal.
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 system effectively reduces energy loss by creating a secure seal between rigid and flexible ducts, improving the efficiency of HVAC systems by preventing conditioned air from leaking into unconditioned spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The first duct connector is assembled to the second duct connector to compress the second sealing member and form a seal between the first duct connector and the second duct connector
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary duct system includes a rigid duct member, a first duct connector connected to the rigid duct member, a first sealing member disposed between the rigid duct member and the first duct connector, a flexible duct, a second duct connector connected to the flexible duct, and a second sealing member disposed between the first duct connector and the second duct connector. The first duct connector is assembled to the second duct connector to compress the second sealing member and form a seal between the first duct connector and the second duct connector and thereby form a seal between the rigid duct member and the flexible duct.