Window installation system and method for split-architecture air conditioning unit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional window air conditioning units require complex and dangerous installation processes, often necessitating professional assistance and involving risks of the unit falling during installation, while ductless systems are expensive and require professional installation, limiting their adoption due to high costs and installation complexities.

Innovation Solution

A split-architecture air conditioning unit installation system that allows for DIY installation through a standard window using a bracket assembly and operable coupling between outdoor and indoor units, minimizing steps and user error, and incorporating a weight offset mechanism to prevent the unit from falling during installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional window air conditioning units are installed by sitting on window ledges and using accordion panels with screws, then the unit can be secured in place, but the installation process becomes complex and dangerous with risk of the unit falling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation safetyVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The air conditioning unit is divided into two separate units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. This segmentation allows each unit to be installed independently using simple bracket assemblies, eliminating the need for complex accordion panels and multiple screws while reducing installation safety risks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Bracket assemblies serve as intermediary components that simplify the installation process. The first bracket assembly secures the indoor unit to the interior window frame, and the second bracket assembly secures the outdoor unit to the exterior window frame, replacing the dangerous traditional mounting method

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Use of energy by moving object

If ductless mini-split systems are installed through walls by professional HVAC technicians, then high efficiency cooling is achieved, but the installation cost becomes more than 10 times that of window units

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecooling efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket assemblies are designed as universal, multi-functional components that can be used by DIY installers without requiring professional HVAC technician expertise. The brackets provide both structural support and simplified mounting capabilities, enabling cost-effective installation while maintaining efficient cooling performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation system enables self-service installation by providing simple bracket assemblies that can be easily mounted by the end user without requiring professional installation services, thereby dramatically reducing installation costs while maintaining cooling efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If professional installation services are used for high-efficiency HVAC systems, then proper installation is ensured, but accessibility and adoption of such systems is limited due to high costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation qualityVSAvoidinstallation accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket assembly system is designed to enable self-service installation, allowing end users to properly install their own air conditioning units without requiring professional installation services, thereby improving accessibility and adoption of efficient HVAC systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket assemblies act as intermediary components that bridge the gap between professional and DIY installation capabilities, providing the structural reliability of professional installation while enabling ease of use for average consumers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11498163B2Window installation system and method for split-architecture air conditioning unit
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 TREAU INC
  • US11498163B2 patent drawing
  • US11498163B2 patent drawing
  • US11498163B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of installing an air conditioning unit in an opening. The method includes securing a bracket to a sill of the opening between a first and second environment where the bracket has a pivot arm disposed and extending within the first environment. The method also includes positioning a first unit of the air conditioning unit on top of the bracket; moving the first unit on top of the bracket onto the pivot arm; and rotating the pivot arm and first unit downward so that the first unit is disposed in the first environment and extending downward below the sill of the opening.