Vent mouse guard
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pest barriers for floor vents do not effectively prevent rodents from entering or exiting HVAC systems, and existing designs are inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with a grate or screen is inserted into the floor vent or register, featuring a screen with defined openings to allow airflow while preventing rodent ingress and egress, secured by a flap assembly that attaches to the vent and register.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing pest barriers are used for floor vents, then some protection is provided, but they fail to effectively prevent rodents from entering or exiting HVAC systems
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into three main segments: a frame assembly that fits within the vent opening, a screen assembly with mesh material that filters rodent passage, and a flap assembly that provides additional blocking capability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall effectiveness against rodents.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen assembly is nested within the frame assembly, and the flap assembly is integrated into the frame structure. The mesh screen is positioned inside the frame, creating a nested configuration where smaller components are housed within larger structural elements, maximizing space utilization and protection effectiveness.
2Reliability
If a screen is inserted into the floor vent register to prevent rodent ingress and egress, then rodent prevention is improved, but airflow may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The screen assembly uses mesh material with specifically engineered opening sizes that are small enough to prevent rodent passage but large enough to allow adequate airflow. The local quality of the mesh structure provides selective permeability - blocking rodents while permitting air circulation through the ventilation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen assembly incorporates mesh material that functions as a porous barrier. The interconnected openings in the mesh provide sufficient passage for air flow while the overall structure maintains integrity to prevent rodent ingress and egress, balancing filtration effectiveness with airflow requirements.
3Reliability
If existing pest barrier designs are implemented, then some protection is provided, but they are inefficient and costly to implement and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes inexpensive materials such as mesh screen, basic frame components, and simple flap assemblies that can be manufactured at low cost. These components are designed to be easily replaceable if needed, reducing long-term maintenance expenses while maintaining effective rodent prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the screen, creates a mounting structure for the flap assembly, and fits within the existing vent opening. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, lowering manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A vent mouse guard including a frame assembly and a grate assembly. The frame assembly includes a frame integrally formed with a screen, wherein the screen has a plurality of openings that allows air from the air vent system of the house to flow through thereof and prevents the egress and/or ingress of pests such as rodents. The frame includes a peripheral wall that covers the opening of the air vent system allowing the floor vent register to be mounted as usual, thereby the present invention may be mounted between any vent of the air vent system of the floor, wall and/or ceiling and the vent register respectively.