Tool-Less Drain Pan Attachment Using Snap-Fit Locking Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Condensate drain pans in existing drainage systems require tools for installation and removal, which is impractical in crowded spaces and may not be compatible with existing cooling coil designs, limiting access and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A tool-less removable condensate drain pan system using brackets with horizontal and vertical structures and locking mechanisms that interlock with the drain pan, allowing attachment to surfaces without tools, and featuring a slope for gravity-fed condensate collection to a main drain line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional connectors requiring machine tools are used for drain pan installation, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation and removal become difficult in crowded spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, welds) with a snap-fit plastic connector system. The drain pan features integrated plastic connectors that snap onto support brackets without requiring machine tools, making installation and removal easy in crowded spaces while maintaining secure attachment through the interlocking plastic geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The drain pan connectors are designed to be self-installing through a snap-fit mechanism that requires no external tools or additional fastening components. The plastic connectors automatically secure to the support brackets through their geometric interlocking design, enabling tool-less installation and removal by the end user.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tool-based installation methods are used, then strong attachment is achieved, but compatibility with existing cooling coil designs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal plastic connectors that can be adapted to various cooling coil designs and support bracket configurations. The connectors feature standardized mounting geometries that work with multiple existing cooling coil designs, enhancing versatility and compatibility across different HVAC equipment without requiring custom installation procedures.
3Ease of operation
If machine tools are required for drain pan attachment, then secure mounting is achieved, but access in crowded spaces becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes machine tool-based mechanical fastening with a tool-free snap-fit plastic connector system. The connectors achieve mounting strength through their interlocking plastic geometry and material properties, eliminating the need for access to machine tools while maintaining sufficient attachment strength for drain pan support.
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
Enables easy installation and removal of condensate drain pans without tools, ensuring compatibility with various cooling coil designs and adhering to ASHRAE 62 IAQ requirements, facilitating efficient condensate disposal through gravity-fed drainage.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a slope for gravity-fed condensate collection to a main drain line
Data Source
AI summary
A drainage system comprising a first bracket having a horizontal structure and one or more vertical structures, a second bracket having a horizontal structure and one or more vertical structures and a drain pan having a plurality of locking mechanisms, each configured to interlock with one of the vertical structures of the first bracket or the second bracket.