Modular Damper System with Docking Module and Backdraft Damper Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backdraft dampers with vertically oriented blades face inefficiencies due to custom-made adapters that cause leakage and turbulence, and are difficult to install efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular damper system with a backdraft damper module and docking module, featuring vertically oriented blades and set screw mounts, allows for easy installation and alignment, minimizing drag and leakage by using complementary connectors and gaskets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If custom-made adapters are used to mount the damper frame to the fan, then the damper blades can open sufficiently, but air leakage and turbulence increase, reducing system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: the damper frame with integrated mounting brackets, the fan housing with corresponding mounting points, and removable fastening elements. This segmentation allows precise positioning of the damper frame relative to the fan, ensuring proper blade clearance while maintaining a tight seal to prevent air leakage and reduce turbulence.
2Adaptability or versatility
If backdraft dampers are attached separately from the fan in an ad hoc manner, then installation is flexible, but leakage occurs and air currents become turbulent
Solution Approach 1:
The damper frame incorporates universal mounting brackets and fastening mechanisms that can accommodate various fan types and configurations. These integrated mounting features provide consistent, leak-free connections across different applications while maintaining proper air flow paths, eliminating the need for ad hoc adaptations that cause turbulence and leakage.
3Productivity
If the damper frame is mounted directly to the sheet metal back of the fan, then installation is simple, but the damper blades cannot completely open due to interference with the sheet metal
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets extend the attachment points from the two-dimensional plane of the fan back sheet metal into the third dimension, creating spatial clearance between the damper blades and the fan housing. This dimensional extension allows the blades to rotate freely through their full range of motion while maintaining a compact overall structure for simple installation.
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 ensures minimal air flow resistance and leakage, maintaining system efficiency by providing sufficient spacing and alignment for damper blades, even with non-standard fan openings.
Implementation Method 1
A gasket is disposed between the dock frame and the frame of the backdraft damper to prevent air from leaking out between the damper frame and the dock frame.
Implementation Method 2
Backdraft dampers with vertically oriented blades are also known, which do not lose efficiency due to having to counter the constant gravitational force tending to close the blades. Although the vertically oriented damper blades are initially opened by air flow through the damper, once the blades are opened they remain aligned with the air currents through the damper without creating any additional drag on the system. The damper blades are then closed by negative air pressure if air moves backwards through the damper
Data Source
AI summary
A damper system includes a backdraft damper frame, vertically oriented damper blades and a dock frame. A corner piece of the damper frame is attached to perpendicular first and second sides. A set screw passes through the corner piece at an axis that is not parallel to a damper plane defined by rear edges of the sides. The damper blades rotate into open and closed orientations. Portions of the damper blades extend beyond the damper plane when the damper blades are in the open orientation. A dock corner of the dock frame is attached to perpendicular third and fourth sides. The damper plane is parallel to a dock plane defined by front edges of the third and fourth sides. The dock corner has a set screw receiver that extends past the dock plane into the damper plane. The set screw from the corner piece enters into the set screw receiver.