Integrated Filter Support in Air Handling Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air handling units require separate and removable filter supports, which increase material and labor costs, as well as installation complexity, due to the need for additional components and assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
An integrated filter support is formed from a cohesive sheet of material, such as metal or polymer, where the filter support is created by folding or bending the sheet to form inward projections that retain a filter within the air handling unit casing, eliminating the need for separate support components and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate and removable filter supports are used, then the filter can be easily removed and replaced, but the device complexity and material costs increase due to additional components and assembly processes
Solution Approach 1:
The filter support is merged with the casing walls by forming integral support portions directly from the casing material through folding or bending operations. This eliminates separate support components while maintaining the ability to remove and replace filters, as the integrated support portions provide the necessary structural function without requiring additional parts or assembly steps.
2Reliability
If separate filter support components are used, then the filter can be supported independently, but the manufacturing costs and installation complexity increase due to additional material and labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The filter support functionality is merged into the casing structure itself. The support portions are formed as integral features of the casing walls through folding or bending the casing material during the casing manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate support components, reducing material costs by eliminating redundant materials and labor costs by eliminating separate assembly operations for installing support components.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing walls serve multiple functions: they provide the structural enclosure of the air handling unit and simultaneously form the filter support portions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated support components, reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable filter support functionality.
3Strength
If multiple separate components are used for filter support, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The filter support portions are merged with the casing walls as integral features formed during casing manufacturing. This eliminates the need for separate installation of support components, significantly reducing installation time. The structural integrity is maintained because the folded or bent support portions create rigid, load-bearing structures that are inherently strong and stable.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an air handling system including a casing structure formed from a cohesive sheet of material. The air handling system also includes a first side wall of the casing structure including a first section of the cohesive sheet of material. The air handling system also includes a first support portion extending inwardly from the first side wall. The first support portion includes a folded portion of the first side wall. The air handling system also includes a second side wall disposed substantially opposite the first side wall. The second side wall includes a second section of the cohesive sheet of material. The air handling system further includes a second support portion extending inwardly from the second side wall. The second support portion includes a folded portion of the second side wall. The first and second support portions are configured to support a filter.