Support duct system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing multiple cooling units in buildings can increase costs due to equipment, installation, and maintenance requirements, and may not be feasible due to space constraints, leading to inefficient cooling and complex ductwork.
Innovation Solution
A multi-unit support duct system with a movable support duct frame and adjustable mounting brackets allows for the installation of multiple cooling units, enabling flexible positioning and rotation of units to optimize airflow and reduce installation complexity, while integrating service components into a single control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple cooling units are installed to adequately cool a building, then cooling capacity is improved, but equipment cost, installation cost, and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cooling units into a single integrated support duct system with a common frame, shared airflow channels, and unified mounting structure. This merging approach provides the cooling capacity of multiple units while reducing overall system complexity, installation cost, and maintenance requirements compared to completely separate units.
Solution Approach 2:
The support duct frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the cooling units, contains and directs airflow through shared channels, supports mounting brackets for flexible unit positioning, and integrates service components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and components.
2Power
If multiple cooling units are installed to provide adequate cooling, then cooling capacity is improved, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is divided into modular cooling units that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the integrated support duct system. This segmentation allows for standardized, cost-effective manufacturing of individual units while the integrated frame provides economies of scale in installation and reduces overall system complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If cooling units are installed at different locations due to space constraints, then space utilization is improved, but ductwork complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support duct frame extends in multiple dimensions with longitudinal and transverse members creating a three-dimensional structure that can accommodate cooling units at various positions. This spatial arrangement allows flexible placement of units across different locations while maintaining integrated airflow channels, avoiding the need for complex separate ductwork connections.
4Strength
If cooling units are fixed at specific locations, then structural support is improved, but flexibility in positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are designed with adjustable and movable features that allow cooling units to be positioned at various locations along the support duct frame while maintaining secure structural support. This dynamic positioning capability provides both the structural strength needed for stable operation and the flexibility to adapt to different spatial requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-unit cooling systems and structures thereof for residential, commercial, or other buildings. In one embodiment, a support duct system comprises a support duct frame including a longitudinal axis and at least one mounting bracket support, each of the at least one mounting bracket support being movable relative to the longitudinal axis of the support duct frame; and at least one mounting bracket coupled to a corresponding one of the at least one mounting bracket support, each of the at least one mounting bracket being removably couplable to a corresponding cooling unit. Each of the cooling units is independently rotatable relative to the longitudinal axis of the support duct frame.