Flex Duct Quick-Connect Locking Tab System for Secure HVAC Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC flex duct connection methods are time-consuming and lack a secure, yet easily releasable attachment mechanism, particularly when connecting flexible ducts to rigid ducts or boots.
Innovation Solution
A flex duct system with wire-reinforced core and hollow connector ends featuring locking tabs that fit into radially protruding sleeves on boots, saddle trunks, or linking connectors, providing a fluid-tight, quick connect and release mechanism, and kits that include these components for flexible duct installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional connection methods (sheet metal screws, mastic, adhesive tape, plastic ties) are used to connect flexible ducts to rigid ducts, then the connection can be achieved, but the installation process is time-consuming and lacks a secure yet easily releasable attachment mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion that interfaces with the rigid duct, and multiple locking tabs that engage with the flexible duct. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick connection while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tabs are designed to be flexible and resilient, allowing them to dynamically engage with and disengage from the flexible duct. The tabs can elastically deform during the connection process and return to their original position to maintain the connection, enabling both secure attachment and easy release when needed.
2Reliability
If traditional connection methods are used, then connections can be made, but they lack a secure and reliable fluid-tight seal
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body includes pre-formed sealing surfaces and grooves that are prepared in advance to receive the flexible duct. The locking tabs are pre-positioned to engage with the duct, ensuring that when connection is made, the seal is immediately established without requiring additional sealing steps or materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible duct is inserted into and nested within the connector body, with the locking tabs engaging from the outside. This nested configuration ensures that the flexible duct is securely held within the rigid connector structure, creating a reliable fluid-tight seal while maintaining quick connection capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing connection methods are used, then ducts can be connected, but the process requires multiple materials and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: the rigid duct interface, the sealing surfaces, and the locking mechanism are all combined in one connector body. This eliminates the need for separate screws, mastic applications, and tape wrapping, simplifying both the installation process and the number of components required.
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
Facilitates faster and more secure connections between flexible and rigid ducts, reducing installation time while ensuring a reliable fluid-tight seal, allowing for easy disconnection and reconnection.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the plurality of locking tabs is configured to flex inward toward a central longitudinal axis when pressure is applied to the grip portion thereof
Data Source
AI summary
Flex duct systems have a flex duct having a wire-reinforced core and first and second hollow connector ends threaded to one each of ends of the wire-reinforced core. Each connector end has a plurality of locking tabs. A boot, a saddle trunk, or a linking connector each have a plurality of sleeves each protruding radially outward and positioned to releasably, attachably receive one of the plurality of locking tabs for a fluid tight connection therewith.