Multi-position condensation kit and bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional condensate traps in HVAC systems are fixed and require specific orientations for proper operation, posing challenges during installation in various orientations of HVAC systems, such as upflow, downflow, and horizontal positions, which can lead to incorrect installation and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A multi-position condensate trap kit and bracket system that allows for vertical or horizontal mounting of the condensate trap, enabling fluid communication and proper drainage regardless of the HVAC system's orientation, using a mounting bracket with a condensate trap mounting surface and a unit mounting surface perpendicular to it, along with fittings for fluid communication paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional fixed condensate trap is used, then the condensate trap can be mounted in a specific orientation, but it cannot be installed in various HVAC system orientations (vertical, horizontal, upflow, downflow)
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with multiple mounting surfaces (first mounting surface, second mounting surface, third mounting surface, fourth mounting surface) that can accommodate condensate traps in various orientations including vertical, horizontal, upflow, and downflow positions. This multi-functional design allows a single bracket type to serve multiple mounting orientation functions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with mounting surfaces oriented in different directions (vertical, horizontal, angled). By adding dimensional versatility to the bracket structure, it can accommodate condensate traps regardless of the HVAC system's installation orientation, transforming a single-orientation component into a multi-orientation solution.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional condensate trap is used, then the structure is simple, but it requires specific orientation for proper condensate drainage by gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket provides multiple pre-configured mounting surfaces that accommodate various HVAC system orientations (vertical, horizontal, upflow, downflow). This universal mounting capability makes installation easier across different application scenarios without requiring multiple specialized bracket types or complex installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into distinct functional segments including a body portion and multiple mounting surfaces oriented in different directions. Each mounting surface can independently accommodate the condensate trap in the appropriate orientation for gravity-driven drainage, allowing the single bracket to serve multiple orientation functions through its segmented structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If the condensate trap is mounted directly to the HVAC unit, then the mounting is simple, but it cannot accommodate various HVAC system installation positions
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket serves as a universal mounting solution that can accommodate HVAC systems installed in various positions (vertical, horizontal, upflow, downflow). By integrating multiple mounting surfaces into a single bracket component, it maintains mounting simplicity while achieving multi-position adaptability, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and versatility.
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
Facilitates efficient and correct installation of the condensate trap in any HVAC system orientation, preventing incorrect positioning and ensuring effective condensate drainage, thereby improving installation efficiency and system performance.
Implementation Method 1
the condensate trap is configured to retain a volume of condensate from the HVAC system
Implementation Method 2
The bracket is configured to mount the condensate trap in multiple orientations such that the condensate trap receives condensate fed by gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting bracket for mounting a condensate trap to a heating, venting, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that can be mounted in multiple orientations such that the condensate trap receives condensate fed by gravity.