Removable Heating Module for Evaporative Air Cooler Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing evaporative air coolers lack an efficient method to convert into a heating system, as they are primarily designed for cooling and do not effectively utilize their air circulation capabilities for heating purposes.
Innovation Solution
A removable heating module with one or more positive-temperature-coefficient heating elements is designed to be securely attached to the outlet duct of an evaporative air cooler, allowing the system to be converted into a heating system by directing the airflow through the heating elements before exhausting it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a heating module is permanently integrated into the cooling system, then heating function is achieved, but adaptability and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system is divided into separate modular components: a cooling system unit and a removable heating module. The heating module includes a housing with heating elements that can be detached and reattached, allowing the system to switch between cooling-only mode and heating mode without permanent integration of heating components.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating module incorporates adjustable heating elements that can be positioned at different heights and angles within the housing. This dynamic adjustability allows optimization of heating performance for different room configurations and heating requirements, enhancing adaptability while maintaining modular simplicity.
2Productivity
If heating elements are positioned far apart, then airflow passes through effectively for heating, but heating efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating elements are mounted on adjustable supports that allow them to be positioned at optimal distances from each other and from the airflow path. This dynamic positioning enables the user to adjust the spacing to balance adequate airflow passage with effective heating, maximizing heating efficiency while maintaining proper air circulation through the module.
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 heating module effectively heats the airflow from the evaporative air cooler, enabling the system to operate in a heating mode while maintaining the flexibility to revert to a cooling mode by removing the heating module.
Implementation Method 1
One or more heating elements configured for heating the stream of air are securable to at least one heater support coupled to the frame. In an embodiment, the one or more heating elements comprise a plurality of positive-temperature-coefficient heating elements
Data Source
AI summary
A heating module includes a securement flange, a central frame, and a front cover. The securement flange includes an annular sidewall configured to be securable to an outlet duct of a cooling system from which a stream of air is provided. The central frame is formed with an opening for the stream of air to flow, and includes one or more heating elements positioned to heat the stream of air and a support for adjustably positioning the one or more heating elements across the opening. The front cover includes a grate aligned with the opening in the central frame through which the stream of air is exhausted.