Panel for an air handling unit, method for assembling such a panel, and air handling unit including such a panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air handling units face high production costs and handling difficulties due to heavy panels with metal joining elements, and reducing panel size increases air leaks and unit weight, compromising tightness.
Innovation Solution
A panel design featuring large dimensions with internal and peripheral joining elements made of lightweight materials, eliminating the need for a structural framework, and reducing the number of panels to minimize air leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If panels are made large to reduce the number of panels and air leaks, then tightness is improved, but weight increases making handling difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is divided into multiple separate plates (front plate, rear plate, and intermediate plates) that are assembled together using joining elements. This segmentation allows each component to be lightweight and easy to handle, while the assembled panel achieves the necessary large dimensions for tightness.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel uses composite construction with multiple plates and joining elements made from materials optimized for their specific functions. The plates can be made from lightweight materials like aluminum or plastic, while joining elements provide structural connection, creating a composite structure that balances weight and strength.
2Reliability
If panels are made large to reduce the number of panels, then air leaks are reduced, but production costs increase due to heavier panels requiring metal joining elements
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into multiple plates that can be manufactured separately using cost-effective processes and then assembled. This avoids the need to manufacture large, expensive, heavy panels as single pieces and reduces material costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel uses inexpensive joining elements (such as clips, snaps, or simple fasteners) instead of expensive metal joining elements. These joining elements can be made from plastic or other low-cost materials, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining adequate structural integrity.
3Productivity
If panels are made large to reduce the number of panels, then assembly time is reduced, but handling becomes difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into multiple lightweight plates that can be easily handled by operators during assembly and maintenance. Each plate can be manipulated independently, improving ease of operation while the complete assembled panel provides the necessary large coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The plates are pre-assembled into the complete panel structure using simple joining elements before installation. This preliminary assembly allows the panel to be constructed from manageable components, and the modular design enables quick installation and maintenance by simply connecting or disconnecting the plates.
Data Source
AI summary
This panel (6) for an air handling unit defines a main axis (X6) perpendicular to its surface and includes at least two first plates (8), each provided with at least two folded-over edges, and at least two second plates (10), each provided with at least two folded-over edges. The plates are parallel to one another and perpendicular to the main axis of the panel. The panel includes at least one internal joining element (14) inserted between the first and second plates along the main axis.