HVAC Curb Adapter Assembly With Backup Power for Flat Roofs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing curb devices for flat roofs are limited in accommodating heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units of varying dimensions and lack a reliable power source during outages, complicating installation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A curb device with a planar profile and an adapter system that accommodates HVAC units of unequal dimensions, integrated with a power unit for backup power using solar panels and batteries, and a leveling system for precise positioning, along with universal electrical adapters and a pre-cooling unit for enhanced efficiency, and the option of remote monitoring and unmanned aerial vehicle assistance for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard curb device is used for mounting HVAC units, then the installation process is simple, but the device cannot accommodate HVAC units of varying dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The curb device is divided into a base curb structure and removable adapter components. The adapters are separate segments that can be installed into the curb to accommodate different HVAC unit dimensions, allowing the system to adapt to varying sizes without redesigning the entire curb structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The curb device is designed with universal adaptability through multiple adapter types that can be interchanged. A single curb structure can mount various HVAC unit sizes by selecting the appropriate adapter, making the device multi-functional and suitable for different dimensions.
2Reliability
If no backup power source is integrated, then the curb device structure remains simple, but the HVAC unit cannot operate during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit including battery and solar panel components is integrated into the curb structure itself. The battery compartment and solar panel mounting are combined with the curb design, creating a unified system that provides backup power without requiring separate external installations.
3Productivity
If manual installation methods are used for HVAC units, then equipment requirements are minimal, but installation and maintenance efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC unit is designed with self-contained features including integrated electrical connections that automatically engage with the curb's power system, and built-in leveling mechanisms that self-adjust during installation. These self-service features reduce the need for manual configuration and professional installation intervention.
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 the installation and operation of various HVAC units on flat roofs by ensuring power continuity, simplifying installation, and enabling efficient maintenance through remote monitoring and innovative transportation methods, thereby improving operational reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A power unit is integrated into the curb to supply electrical power to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit in the event of a power outage
Data Source
AI summary
A heating, ventilation and air conditioning curb assembly includes a curb that has a planar profile for positioning on a flat roof of a building. A heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit is included that has dimensions which are unequal to dimensions of the curb. An adapter is positionable into the curb and the adapter has dimensions sufficient to accommodate dimensions of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit. Thus, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit can be installed onto the curb. A power unit is integrated into the curb to supply electrical power to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit in the event of a power outage thereby ensuring the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit continues to operate. A leveling unit is coupled to the adapter for leveling the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit.