Method of installing a universal air handler
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile homes and small structures, the scarcity of indoor space poses challenges for air conditioning systems, particularly with the increasing size of high-efficiency outdoor condenser and compressor units, leading to the need for a solution that conserves interior space while accommodating larger outdoor units.
Innovation Solution
A compact outdoor universal air handler cabinet with separate intake and outlet chambers and a stand-alone condenser/compressor unit, allowing for flexible installation options, including stacking and modular connections to reduce overall footprint and enable easy maintenance and transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If high-efficiency outdoor condenser and compressor units are used, then energy efficiency is improved, but the physical size of the units increases requiring more outdoor space
Solution Approach 1:
The air conditioning system is divided into separate functional components: an outdoor condenser/compressor unit and an indoor evaporator/blower unit. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the outdoor unit can be high-efficiency and larger without constraining the outdoor space available, while the indoor unit is compact to conserve interior space in mobile homes.
2Reliability
If indoor space is used to house evaporator and blower components, then system functionality is maintained, but interior space availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The evaporator and blower components are extracted from the indoor space and relocated to an outdoor cabinet. This extraction eliminates the need for dedicated interior closet or attic space while maintaining full system functionality. The outdoor cabinet houses both the evaporator/blower assembly and connects to the outdoor condenser/compressor unit via coolant lines.
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
This configuration allows for efficient use of space by segregating indoor and outdoor components, providing greater flexibility in unit selection and installation, and minimizing the need for dedicated interior space, while maintaining energy efficiency and ease of maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
Return air drawn by the blower into the return air chamber passes across the evaporator
Implementation Method 2
Return air drawn by the blower into the return air chamber passes across the evaporator, then through the blower and out through the cool air duct
Data Source
AI summary
A method for installing a universal air handler for a building air conditioning system includes installing a compact outdoor cabinet having a blower and separate intake and outlet chambers separated by an evaporator core. Cool and return air ducts from the building couple to each chamber. Return air drawn by the blower into the return air chamber passes across the evaporator, then through the blower and out through the cool air duct. Coolant lines couple the evaporator to a nearby stand-alone condenser/compressor unit. In one embodiment, an adapter enables stacking the condenser/compressor unit atop the cabinet to reduce the footprint of the combination. In another embodiment, a manifold couples permanently to the building air ducts and releasably couples to the cabinet. The universal air handler easily decouples from the manifold for transportation and maintenance. The manifold may be installed in various locations around the building, including on the roof.