Fork-Shaped Receptacle Securing Device for HVAC Actuator Anti-Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuating drives in HVAC systems require complex and inflexible methods to secure against rotation, such as screws, nuts, and welded sheet metal, which complicate the attachment and adjustment process.
Innovation Solution
A device with a fork-shaped receptacle and central connecting part that interlocks with the actuating drive's housing ledge, allowing for manual adjustment and secure fastening to the duct outer face, enabling direct torque input and preventing rotation and axial movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connecting elements (screws, nuts, rivets, welded sheet metal) are used to secure the actuating drive against rotation, then the actuating drive is firmly fixed, but the attachment process becomes complicated and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is divided into distinct functional segments: a fastening part for attachment to the duct outer face, a central connecting part with bending points for adjustment, and a fork-shaped receptacle for interlocking with the housing ledge. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall attachment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The central connecting part incorporates bending points that enable manual adjustment of the device to match the distance between the duct outer face and the housing bottom side. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to accommodate varying installation conditions while maintaining secure fixation.
2Reliability
If traditional connecting elements are used to secure the actuating drive, then rotation is prevented, but the attachment process becomes inflexible and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fork-shaped receptacle is pre-configured with a geometry matched to the radial outer face of the housing ledge, allowing it to be laterally slid onto the ledge in a single straightforward motion. This preliminary design of the interlocking geometry eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary element between the duct outer face and the actuating drive housing ledge. By providing a standardized interface with the ledge through the fork-shaped receptacle, it simplifies the connection process while maintaining secure anti-rotation fixation.
3Reliability
If additional connecting elements are used to secure the actuating drive, then the drive is fixed against rotation, but the overall system becomes more complex and less adaptable
Solution Approach 1:
The central connecting part with its bending points provides dynamic adjustability, allowing the device to be manually adapted to different distances between the duct outer face and the housing bottom side. This enables the same device to be used in various installation scenarios while maintaining reliable torque transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device combines multiple functions in a single integrated structure: fastening to the duct, adjustment to match distances, and interlocking with the housing ledge to prevent rotation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate components and increases adaptability to different installation conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a device securing an actuating drive on a duct outer face of an HVAC duct against rotation. The actuating drive includes an actuator for driving an actuation connection about an actuation axis. The actuation connection interacts with a flap arranged in the ventilation duct to set a gaseous volumetric flow. The actuating drive includes a housing with a ledge formed on a bottom side of the housing and surrounding the actuation connection coaxially relative to the actuation axis. The housing bottom side lies opposite the duct outer face. The device may include: a fastening part for fastening to the outer face; and a fork-shaped receptacle formed at an end. The receptacle geometrically matches a radial outer face of the housing ledge such that after lateral sliding onto the outer face of the ledge, the receptacle fixes said ledge and thus the actuating drive against rotation.