Vent Cap Planar Support Ring Chimney Relining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing venting systems for combustive appliances and hearths often require re-lining, but the original end cap does not work with re-lined pipes, posing a challenge in maintaining airflow and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A venting installation cap assembly with a planar support ring and airflow regions that surrounds the pipe section, allowing free airflow between the outer and inner tubes, and includes a flexible or rigid relining material suitable for high-temperature environments, such as stainless steel, to accommodate re-lining of existing chimney systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the original end cap is used in a re-lined pipe system, then the structure remains simple, but the compatibility and airflow performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cap assembly is divided into multiple functional components: an exhaust cap for sealing, a planar support ring for structural support and positioning, and airflow regions integrated into the design. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a cohesive unit that accommodates re-lined pipes
Solution Approach 2:
The planar support ring acts as an intermediary element between the exhaust cap and the re-lined pipe system. It provides a mounting surface and structural support that bridges the compatibility gap between the original cap design and the re-lined pipe configuration, enabling the cap to function properly with the modified system
2Reliability
If the pipe section is surrounded by a support ring with diameter greater than outer wall, then structural support and airflow are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the planar support ring: it provides structural support for the pipe section, creates positioning features for alignment, and incorporates airflow regions that allow air passage. By combining these functions into a single component rather than separate elements, the design achieves improved reliability without proportionally increasing assembly complexity
3Productivity
If airflow regions are incorporated into the planar support ring, then air flow between outer wall and inner exhaust tube is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The planar support ring incorporates airflow regions that create a porous or perforated structure, allowing air to pass through the ring between the outer wall and inner exhaust tube. This approach enables effective airflow without requiring complex internal passages or multiple separate components, as the airflow paths are integrated directly into the ring structure
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 the re-lining of venting systems while maintaining airflow and compatibility with existing chimney installations, ensuring efficient exhaust and air flow through the chimney system.
Implementation Method 1
The planar support ring includes a plurality of airflow regions, surrounds the exhaust path and allows a free flow of air between the outer wall and the inner exhaust tube
Data Source
AI summary
A venting system includes a venting installation cap assembly for a venting system having at least an outer wall and an inner exhaust tube. The assembly includes an exhaust cap having an exhaust path coupled to the inner exhaust tube defined by a pipe section. A planar support ring having an annulus through which the pipe section passes rests on the outer tube or an adapter to the outer tube. The ring annulus surrounds the pipe section and has a diameter greater than a diameter of the outer wall. The planar support ring includes a plurality of airflow regions, surrounds the exhaust path and providing an airflow path between an exterior and a region between the outer wall and the inner exhaust tube.