HVAC Damper Latch Structure for Secure Closed Blade Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing damper assemblies in HVAC systems fail to maintain a closed configuration effectively, allowing air to flow through ductwork due to operational forces, which can lead to the undesired passage of contaminants or pollutants.
Innovation Solution
A damper assembly with a frame, rotatable damper blades, and a latch mechanism that captures the blades in a closed position, using a latch design with segments that deform and expand to secure the blades, preventing air flow through the ductwork.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple damper assembly is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of maintaining closed configuration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is divided into multiple functional segments: a first segment secured to the frame, a second segment that deformably connects the first and third segments, a third segment forming a capture surface, and a fourth segment providing structural support. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining overall reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second segment of the latch is designed to be deformable, allowing it to flex and move relative to the other segments. This dynamic capability enables the latch to transition between locked and unlocked states, facilitating both reliable retention and controlled opening of the damper blade.
2Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure the damper blade, then the reliability of maintaining closed configuration is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and retain the damper blade in the closed position without requiring additional actuation mechanisms. The deformable second segment automatically positions the capture surface to secure the blade, and the oblique fourth segment provides structural reinforcement without adding complex control systems.
3Reliability
If the latch is designed to be rigid for strong retention, then the reliability of capturing the damper blade is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second segment of the latch is designed with deformable properties, allowing it to flex when force is applied to transition the damper blade between open and closed positions. Once the blade reaches the desired position, the segment returns to its original configuration, providing reliable retention without requiring excessive force for operation.
4Ease of operation
If the latch segments are designed to deform and expand, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of maintaining closed position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is segmented into four distinct parts with specific functions: the first segment provides secure attachment to the frame, the second segment provides controlled deformability for operation, the third segment creates the capture surface for retention, and the fourth segment provides structural support. This segmentation allows the deformable second segment to facilitate operation while the rigid first, third, and fourth segments ensure reliable retention under operational forces.
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 damper assembly effectively maintains a closed configuration, blocking air flow and preventing the passage of contaminants, even under operational forces, thereby enhancing air flow control and contamination prevention in HVAC systems.
Implementation Method 1
The latch is configured to deform to facilitate transition of the damper blade between the open position and the closed position and to expand to capture and retain the damper blade in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A damper assembly includes a frame having an inner surface and a protrusion extending inwardly relative to the inner surface, a damper blade coupled to the frame and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, and a latch coupled to the inner surface of the frame. The latch is configured to deform to facilitate transition of the damper blade between the open position and the closed position and to expand to capture and retain the damper blade in the closed position, the latch includes a tab segment configured to move toward the protrusion during deformation of the latch and to move away from the protrusion during expansion of the latch, and a distal end of the tab segment overlaps with a thickness of the protrusion.