Exhaust vent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exhaust vent systems for flat roofs face challenges in weatherproofing, ease of installation, and compliance with code requirements, particularly regarding the use of penetrative fasteners and backdraft dampers, which restrict airflow and create unsightly and labor-intensive installations.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, tool-less exhaust vent system comprising a plastic sleeve and gooseneck neck with an integral backdraft damper, featuring a twist lock mechanism for easy assembly and disassembly, and a cap that functions as a bird guard, allowing for seamless airflow and compliance with code requirements without penetrative fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an internal backdraft damper assembly is used, then backdraft protection is achieved, but the free air flow area is restricted and the installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the backdraft damper directly into the exhaust vent housing as a single unified component rather than using a separate assembly. The damper is positioned within the vent housing and connected to the exhaust duct, eliminating the need for separate field assembly of multiple components and reducing installation complexity while maintaining backdraft protection functionality
2Object-affected harmful factors
If field assembled joints with mastics are used, then weatherproofing is achieved, but labor time increases and the appearance becomes unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust vent housing is pre-assembled with integrated weatherproofing features during manufacturing, including sealed joints and integrated flashing components. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for field application of mastics and reduces installation time while ensuring consistent weatherproofing quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color-matched sealing components and flashing elements that blend with the housing color, eliminating the unsightly appearance of traditional mastics. The integrated flashing is painted or molded in matching colors to maintain aesthetic appearance
3Strength
If penetrative fasteners are used to secure the duct, then mechanical strength is improved, but code compliance is violated and airflow is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes penetrative fasteners from the exhaust duct connection and instead uses clamp-style or band-style securing mechanisms that attach to the exterior of the duct. This extraction of the fastening method eliminates code violations and airflow obstruction while maintaining adequate mechanical strength through alternative securing approaches
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a screen is installed on the duct termination, then insect protection is achieved, but code compliance is violated and airflow is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the exhaust vent housing itself as an intermediary barrier that prevents insect entry while maintaining code compliance. The housing design includes strategic openings and positioning that allow exhaust airflow while blocking insect access, eliminating the need for screens that would violate code requirements
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an exhaust vent assembly including a sleeve, a neck, a damper in the neck, a cap attached to the neck and a collar. The exhaust vent assembly may be configured without any tools and without any penetrative fasteners.