Window AC Support Bracket Using Opposed Building Surface Forces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air conditioning unit support systems fail to securely attach units to buildings without damaging the structure and comply with safety regulations, particularly in urban areas where multiple units are installed, risking falls and requiring stringent installation guidelines.

Innovation Solution

A modular air conditioning unit support system that applies outward and inward forces to both interior and exterior building surfaces using adjustable components like cross bars, air conditioning unit supports, and struts, allowing secure attachment without modifying the building, and accommodating various unit and window dimensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If support structures are built into the building itself, then the air conditioning unit is securely supported, but the building is permanently altered or damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport securityVSAvoidbuilding damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a support system consisting of a first member positioned against the interior surface and a second member positioned against the exterior surface, connected by a third member. This intermediary support structure transfers the load between the AC unit and the building surfaces without requiring permanent modification or penetration of the building structure, thus securing the unit while avoiding damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The support system is divided into three separate members: a first member for interior surface engagement, a second member for exterior surface engagement, and a third member connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (support, anchor, connect) without requiring the building structure itself to be modified, resolving the contradiction between secure support and building integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If strict safety regulations are adhered to in urban areas, then public safety is improved, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepublic safetyVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support system is segmented into three separate members that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This modular approach simplifies installation while meeting safety requirements, as each member can be independently secured to the building surfaces without requiring complex integrated structures or permanent building modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The system securely supports air conditioning units up to 60 pounds without damaging the building, complies with safety regulations, and allows for efficient operation by distributing the weight and forces across the building surfaces, ensuring stability and safety.

Implementation Method 1

a first member engaged with a second member and configured to apply an outward force to an interior surface of the building in response to a downward force applied to an upper surface of the second member by the air conditioning unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce: Force

Implementation Method 2

a third member engaged with the second member and configured to apply an inward force to an exterior surface of the building in response to the downward force applied to the upper surface of the second member by the air conditioning unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce: Force

Data Source

PatentUS9447916B2Securing an air conditioning unit to a building by applying force to an interior and an exterior surface of the building
Publication Date: 2016.09.20 NATION WIDE PRODUCTS LLC
  • US9447916B2 patent drawing
  • US9447916B2 patent drawing
  • US9447916B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for securing an air conditioning unit to a building without the need for any alteration and/or damage to the building itself. The system includes a cross bar, an air conditioning unit support, and a strut. The arrangement of the components results in the cross bar applying an outward force to an interior surface of the building and strut applying an inward force to an exterior surface of the building in response to the downward force exerted on the air conditioning unit support. The sum of the forces applied on the surfaces of the building are sufficient to secure the air conditioning unit to the building.