Flexible filter cage for a make-up air module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air conditioner units, particularly packaged terminal air conditioner units, face difficulties in accessing and replacing air filters due to their location in hard-to-reach areas with poor clearance, making the process cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A filter cage with a flexible bridge connecting two frame portions is designed to facilitate quick and easy installation and replacement of air filters, positioned adjacent to the auxiliary fan in the make-up air module, allowing for tool-free operation within the constrained space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid filter housing is mechanically fastened to the front faceplate, then the filter is securely positioned, but the installation and replacement process becomes difficult and time-consuming due to poor accessibility and constrained operating area
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cage is divided into a first frame portion and a second frame portion that can be independently manipulated. The flexible bridge connects these portions, allowing the cage to be segmented for easier installation while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible bridge enables the filter cage to dynamically change its configuration during installation. The bridge can flex to allow compression of the cage for insertion, then expands to secure the filter in place, transitioning from a compressed state to a secured state.
2Reliability
If the filter housing is fixed in a hard-to-reach location, then the filter is properly positioned for make-up air intake, but the operating area becomes constrained and accessibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cage and filter assembly are designed to nest within the constrained space of the make-up air module. The flexible bridge allows the cage to compress and fit into the limited operating area, then expand to securely hold the filter in the proper position for make-up air intake.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible bridge enables the filter cage to dynamically adjust its volume and shape to fit within the constrained operating area during installation, then maintain structural integrity when securing the filter in the final position.
3Reliability
If mechanical fasteners are used to secure the filter housing, then the filter is firmly attached, but the replacement process requires tools and becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible bridge is extracted from the traditional rigid fastening system. Instead of using mechanical fasteners that require tools, the flexible bridge provides attachment through elastic deformation, allowing the filter to be secured and released by simple manual manipulation without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible bridge provides self-service fastening through its elastic properties. The material itself performs the securing function through compression and rebound, eliminating the need for external fasteners or tools. The filter cage secures itself to the housing through the flexible bridge's elastic deformation.
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 filter cage enables simple and efficient filter replacement without the need for tools, improving accessibility and reducing installation time, enhancing the operational efficiency of air conditioner units.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible bridge extending between and flexibly connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible filter cage for receiving an air filter in an air conditioner unit includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion spaced apart from the first frame portion to define a frame cavity therebetween. A flexible bridge extends between and flexibly connects the first frame portion and the second frame portion to permit flexing of the filter cage up to a predetermined angle which facilitates easy mounting into a filter slot defined by the air conditioner unit.