Wall-Integrated Sleeve Support for Elevated Condenser Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current equipment supports for condensing units are not cost-effective, do not provide synergistic solutions, and fail to address issues such as settling, debris impairment, and theft deterrents, while also not being designed to utilize a building's foundation strength effectively.
Innovation Solution
A support system that elevates condensing units using a rigid beam with a sleeve support integrated into the wall or foundation, providing structural integrity, code compliance, wind resistance, and theft protection by incorporating a sleeve support with a brace that resists rotational forces and allows line sets to pass through, while also serving as a line set sleeve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If separate equipment supports (pads, stands, brackets) are used to elevate condensing units, then the units can be installed above grade, but the supports settle over time or allow debris to impair performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (equipment support, line set sleeve, and theft deterrent) into a single integrated wall support assembly. The support assembly is mounted to the building structure and provides stable elevation while the integrated design eliminates settling issues and debris accumulation that plague separate pad-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wall support assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it elevates the condensing unit above grade, provides a protective sleeve for line sets passing through the wall, and acts as a theft deterrent through its integrated design. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing stable, reliable support while eliminating the need for separate components that could fail independently.
2Ease of manufacture
If lightweight pads are used to elevate condensing units, then installation is simple, but the pads can be easily removed from the premises along with the condensing unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the equipment support with an anti-theft deterrent structure into a single integrated assembly. The support assembly is securely mounted to the building structure at multiple points, making it permanent and difficult to remove. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of installation through a pre-fabricated unit while eliminating theft vulnerability through the integrated deterrent design.
Solution Approach 2:
The wall support assembly provides both elevation support and theft prevention in a single component. The integrated design includes features that deter theft (such as secure mounting to building structure and difficult-to-remove construction) while maintaining ease of installation through standardized mounting procedures. This multi-functionality simultaneously addresses simplicity and security concerns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate line set sleeves are installed in walls for multiple condensing units, then line sets can pass through the wall, but the sleeves do not provide structural support or theft deterrent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the line set sleeve function with structural support and theft deterrent capabilities into a single wall support assembly. The assembly includes a sleeve portion that allows line sets to pass through the wall, while simultaneously providing structural support for the condensing unit and acting as a theft deterrent through its integrated design. This resolves the contradiction by making the sleeve structurally strong and versatile rather than a simple passive component.
Solution Approach 2:
The wall support assembly performs multiple functions: it routes line sets through the wall via the integrated sleeve, provides structural support for elevating the condensing unit, and serves as a theft deterrent. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by transforming a weak, single-purpose sleeve into a strong, multi-functional support structure that adapts to various installation requirements.
4Ease of operation
If standard equipment supports are used without integrating building structure, then installation is straightforward, but the supports do not utilize the building's foundation strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the equipment support with direct attachment to the building structure (wall or foundation). The wall support assembly is designed to be mounted to structural elements of the building, transferring loads to the building's foundation rather than relying on the support's own limited strength. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of installation through standardized mounting procedures while dramatically increasing structural strength through building structure integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A beam-receiving support kit bears an outdoor condenser component of a split air conditioning system through a rigid beam. The support kit generally includes a support sleeve and a brace configured to resist rotation of the beam after the kit is incorporated into a block wall or foundation. The sleeve generally includes a straight passageway for the beam between aligned openings in the wall or foundation. The brace engages the sleeve and is generally configured to extend across a portion of at least one or two webs of a standard nominal 16″ long concrete block, and may be embedded or installed on a face of the wall or foundation. The kit may be part of a masonry unit. The kit may also comprise one or more sleeves and a liner or insulator for protecting the sleeve(s).