Foldable Window Ventilator Spring Dampening Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generic window rebate ventilators face challenges in maintaining functionality and maximum air volume flow when installed in both horizontal and vertical positions due to issues with spring elements and counterweights, leading to leaks, turbulence, and reduced airflow.
Innovation Solution
A detachable snap-in connection for the spring element is used, allowing it to be embedded in a trough on the restoring element, enabling the spring element to rest against the air duct chamber wall and maintain the angular position, ensuring the flap opens effectively while allowing for vertical installation and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring element is permanently integrated into the restoring element, then the flap can be driven into its open position, but the device cannot be easily replaced or maintained and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is separated from the restoring element and connected via a detachable snap-in connection. This allows the spring element to be replaced independently without replacing the entire restoring element, simplifying maintenance while maintaining the flap opening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-in connection allows the spring element to be dynamically attached and detached from the restoring element. This dynamic connection enables easy replacement and maintenance while ensuring reliable engagement during operation to drive the flap open.
2Reliability
If the spring element protrudes from the restoring element, then it can interact with the wall to drive the flap open, but it creates turbulence and disrupts airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is nested within a trough formed in the restoring element, with the trough closed at the bottom. This nesting arrangement allows the spring element to protrude sufficiently to interact with the wall for driving the flap open, while the trough structure contains the spring element and minimizes turbulence in the airflow path.
3Productivity
If the restoring element is positioned to maximize air gap, then maximum air volume flow is achieved, but the spring element cannot effectively drive the flap open
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is positioned in a trough on the restoring element, utilizing the vertical dimension within the trough to provide effective interaction with the wall. This dimensional arrangement allows the spring element to drive the flap open while maintaining maximum air gap for airflow, resolving the conflict between these two requirements.
4Reliability
If the pivot axis is aligned transversely to gravity, then the counterweight effect works, but the ventilator can only be installed in horizontal positions
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a mechanical force that substitutes for the gravitational counterweight effect. This spring-driven mechanism works effectively in both horizontal and vertical installation positions, replacing the gravity-dependent counterweight system and enabling flexible installation in any window or door rebate position.
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
This configuration maintains the maximum possible air volume flow and allows for flexible installation in any window or door rebate position without impairing airflow, reducing wear and manufacturing complexity by enabling separate production of spring and flap components.
Implementation Method 1
the restoring element has, on its side facing a wall delimiting the air-guiding chamber, at least one spring element which interacts with the wall and drives the flap into its open position
Implementation Method 2
an air cushion or turbulence is formed in this window rebate ventilator behind the openings between the side of the restoring element or control element on the inside of the air duct chamber and the adjacent wall delimiting the air supply chamber, which dampens the opening movement of the flap
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~6
AI summary
The ventilator has an air guiding chamber (8) with a flow rate regulator (9) that is designed in form of a flap that is pivotably supported in the air guiding chamber. The flap has a closure element (11) and a return element (12) that forms a counter weight. The return element and the closure element form non-flowable surfaces. The return element has a plastic or metal spring (15) on a side facing a wall (13) that limits the air guiding chamber. The spring drives the flap in its open position and cooperates together with the wall. The spring is arranged in a bottom-side sealed cavity.