Offset Wall Mount Bracket for Snow-Clear HVAC Condensers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor condensing units for heating and cooling systems, such as mini split systems, face challenges in areas with significant snowfall or high water tables due to low ground-level installation, which makes them prone to damage and interference from vegetation and maintenance equipment, and requires extensive site preparation.
Innovation Solution
A wall-mounted bracket system using angled bracket arms that attach to the structure's foundation, allowing for equipment support above ground level without penetrating the siding, incorporating vibration-absorbing couplings and adaptable upper support arms for varied installation configurations, including roof support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If outdoor condensing units are set on a pad or slab at low ground level, then site preparation is required and the units are susceptible to damage from snow, water, vegetation, and maintenance equipment, but mounting the units above ground level protects them from these hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the mounting approach from horizontal (ground-level pad installation) to vertical (wall-mounted above ground), using the wall structure to elevate the equipment and eliminate the need for extensive ground preparation while providing protection from environmental hazards
2Strength
If wall-mounted brackets penetrate the siding to attach to the foundation, then secure mounting is achieved, but the siding and exterior appearance are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (surface-mounted bracket system) that attaches to the wall without penetrating the siding, using the wall surface itself as the mounting substrate while maintaining secure attachment through engineered bracket designs that distribute loads appropriately
3Ease of operation
If traditional ground-level pad mounting is used, then installation is straightforward, but the units are exposed to weed/plant growth, leaf accumulation, and mower damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent elevates the equipment from ground level to wall-mounted position, removing it from the zone affected by vegetation and ground-based maintenance equipment while preserving installation simplicity through pre-engineered bracket systems
Data Source
AI summary
A wall mount bracket for HVAC Equipment such as a heat pump, AC condensing unit, and preferably the exterior condenser unit of a mini split system. The system can advantageously be used in colder climates to prevent equipment from freezing and keep equipment above the level of the snow, etc. The wall mounts herein employ an offset to space the unit away from the wall of the structure to provide clearance on the rear of the unit. The offset also allows the units to be mounted above the top of the foundation wall without disrupting the exterior siding of the structure.