Multifunctional Support Member for Linear Air Diffuser in Public Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air diffusers in public transportation vehicles lack versatility and modularity, limiting their adaptability in different configurations and refurbishing processes, and they are not structural members, preventing attachment of interior fixtures.
Innovation Solution
A linear air diffuser module with an elongated support member featuring C-shaped attachment rails that integrates as a structural element, allowing for flexible attachment to the ceiling and interior fixtures, with a separate diffuser plate that can be designed and attached independently, enabling modular and adaptable air delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the air diffuser is designed as a non-structural component, then the design and assembly of air distribution is simplified, but it cannot serve as an interface for fixing interior fitments such as grab poles, grab rails, display screens or partition walls
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it structurally supports the air diffuser module, serves as a structural member of the vehicle body, and provides attachment interfaces for interior fitments through C-shaped attachment rails. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling the component to attach interior fitments while maintaining structural integrity without requiring separate dedicated structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the diffuser plate is integrated with the support member, then structural integrity is improved, but design changes require redesign of the entire assembly including support member and interior fitments
Solution Approach 1:
The air diffuser module is segmented into two distinct components: the support member and the diffuser plate. The diffuser plate is detachably attached to the support member via attachment profiles, allowing independent design, manufacturing, and modification of each component. This segmentation enables design flexibility for the diffuser plate without requiring redesign of the support member or attached interior fitments, directly resolving the stated contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular air diffuser with variable air guide elements is used, then air flow direction control is improved, but the shape of air guide elements remains uniform and the structure cannot attach interior fitments
Solution Approach 1:
The support member incorporates C-shaped attachment rails that provide universal attachment capability for various interior fitments while maintaining the modular structure for air flow control. This multi-functional design allows the same modular framework to serve both air distribution and interior fitment mounting purposes, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
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 solution enhances modularity and adaptability, allowing for various configurations and easy retrofitting, while providing a structural interface for interior fixtures, improving air distribution and integration with vehicle design without requiring complex redesigns.
Implementation Method 1
a diffuser plate extending between the two longitudinal upright wall portions to cover the lower opening, the diffuser plate being provided with diffusion openings to direct a flow of air from the air channel to the interior space
Implementation Method 2
the support member is a multifunctional structural member of the vehicle body provided with at least two upper C-shaped attachment rails for attaching the linear air diffuser module to the ceiling structure and one or more lower C-shaped attachment rails for attaching interior fitments
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
A linear air diffuser module (12), comprises an elongated support member (18) and a diffuser plate (20). The support member (18) including two longitudinal upright wall portions (26) facing one another and laterally enclosing a longitudinal air channel (28) provided with at least one upper opening and at least one elongated lower opening (31). The air diffuser plate (20) extends between the two longitudinal upright wall portions (26) to cover the lower opening (31) and is provided with diffusion openings (32) to direct a flow of air from the air channel (28) to an interior space (16) of a vehicle body of a public transportation vehicle. The support member (18) is a multifunctional structural member of the vehicle body provided with at least two upper C-shaped attachment rails (40) for attaching the linear air diffuser module (12) to the ceiling structure (10) and one or more lower C-shaped attachment rails (42) for attaching interior fitments (14) of the interior space (16) of the vehicle body to the support member (18).