Window air conditioner support apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window air conditioner installation methods are cumbersome, require multiple people, and can be dangerous, often involving complex multi-component setups with mechanical fasteners that damage window components and require external access, failing to address the challenge of lifting the air conditioner into the window safely and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising adjustable, polymeric, one-piece or telescopingly adjustable components that clamp onto the air conditioner, allowing it to be easily placed into a window without external supports or metallic contact, using demarcations for field modifications and hand-holds for single-person installation and removal, eliminating the need for a second person and reducing damage risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical fasteners and multi-component braces are used to secure the air conditioner, then the air conditioner is securely held in place, but the installation becomes time-consuming and complex, and window components are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single support member that simultaneously provides structural support, secures the air conditioner, and protects window components. The support member integrates the functions of braces, fasteners, and protective elements into one component, eliminating the need for separate mechanical fasteners and multi-component assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates harmful mechanical fasteners and metallic components from the installation system. By removing screws, bolts, and traditional braces, the invention prevents damage to window moldings and casings while maintaining secure support for the air conditioner through alternative non-damaging attachment methods.
2Reliability
If pre-installed braces and supports are used before placing the air conditioner, then the air conditioner is supported, but external access by ladder is required and installation becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional installation sequence by designing support members that can be attached to the air conditioner first, then lowered into the window opening as an integrated unit. This reversal eliminates the need for pre-installation of braces and removes the requirement for external ladder access, as the support structure is installed from the interior side of the window.
Data Source
AI summary
A support for mounting an air conditioner for operative disposition in a window, while being free of any supports external to the window and of any metallic contact with the window, includes elongated top and bottom members of lightweight polymeric molded construction, sized and shaped to extend along an interior window sill of the window, with opposite ends thereof extending beyond vertical side jambs of the window. First and second transverse members of polymeric molded construction extend between the top and bottom members to define a receptacle sized and shaped to slidably receive the air conditioner therein and to interferingly engage an elongated flange extending along an upper surface of the air conditioner. The top and bottom members include molded hand-holds and demarcations/score lines to facilitate trimming to desired widths.