Methods of installing a multi-unit support duct system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-unit cooling systems for buildings are costly and inefficient due to the need for multiple cooling units, complex ductwork, and increased maintenance requirements, often lacking sufficient roof or surface area for multiple units and leading to suboptimal cooling performance.
Innovation Solution
A multi-unit support duct system that includes a support duct frame with movable mounting bracket supports and removably couplable mounting brackets for cooling units, allowing for independent rotation and efficient placement of cooling units along the duct frame, and incorporating a dual-compartment air duct system with recirculated and makeup air plenums for enhanced cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple cooling units are installed to adequately cool a building, then cooling capacity is improved, but installation cost and maintenance complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cooling units into a single integrated support duct system where multiple evaporative cooler assemblies are mounted on a common frame with shared ductwork. This merging approach provides the cooling capacity of multiple units while reducing installation complexity by consolidating mounting structures and simplifying ductwork requirements compared to completely separate unit installations.
2Power
If multiple cooling units are installed to increase cooling capacity, then cooling performance is improved, but roof or surface area requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal placement of multiple separate cooling units on the roof to a vertical configuration where multiple evaporative cooler assemblies are stacked vertically on a single support duct frame. This dimensional change allows multiple units to occupy a smaller horizontal footprint while maintaining the required cooling capacity, thereby reducing roof or surface area requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cooling units are installed at different locations to accommodate limited roof area, then installation flexibility is improved, but ductwork complexity and cooling efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cooling units into a single integrated support duct system where multiple evaporative cooler assemblies are mounted on a common frame with shared ductwork. This merging approach provides the cooling capacity of multiple units while reducing installation complexity by consolidating mounting structures and simplifying ductwork requirements compared to completely separate unit installations.
4Power
If multiple separate cooling units are installed, then cooling capacity is improved, but equipment and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cooling units into a single integrated support duct system where multiple evaporative cooler assemblies are mounted on a common frame with shared ductwork. This merging approach provides the cooling capacity of multiple units while reducing installation complexity by consolidating mounting structures and simplifying ductwork requirements compared to completely separate unit installations.
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 system reduces installation and maintenance costs, optimizes cooling performance by allowing flexible placement of cooling units, and enhances efficiency through the recirculation and isolation of air sources, thereby providing effective cooling while minimizing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
the air passes through airflow channels within the evaporative media. Water flowing within the evaporative media is evaporated by the intake air, which reduces the temperature of air flowing through the evaporative media.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of installing multi-unit cooling systems. In one embodiment, the method includes installing a support duct frame at an installation location, the support duct frame including a longitudinal axis and the multi-unit support duct system including a plurality of cooling units rotatably coupled to the support duct frame, each of the plurality of cooling units being in a first configuration relative to the longitudinal axis of the support duct frame; and independently rotating each of the plurality of cooling units from the first configuration to a second configuration relative to the support duct frame.