Window-Based HVAC Interface System
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional HVAC systems require air ducts and grills that restrict window size, disrupt aesthetics, and are costly to upgrade, often degrading indoor air quality and energy efficiency, especially in older buildings.
Innovation Solution
A window-based HVAC system comprising a hooded vent and plenum box that integrates intake and exhaust channels within a single assembly, allowing installation without modifying the building's exterior and connecting to existing venting infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional HVAC systems with air ducts and grills are installed, then ventilation function is provided, but window size is restricted and aesthetics are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the air intake vent and air exhaust vent into a single integrated window assembly, allowing both ventilation functions to be provided while maintaining a compact form factor that does not restrict window size. The vents are integrated within the window structure itself rather than requiring separate ducts and grills.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional two-dimensional wall-mounted vents to a three-dimensional window-integrated assembly that extends both inward and outward from the window plane. This allows efficient air intake and exhaust channels to be configured within the window thickness, preserving exterior aesthetics and interior window area.
2Ease of operation
If conventional HVAC systems are installed, then ventilation is provided, but installation cost and complexity increase due to required modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly is pre-configured with integrated air intake and exhaust vents during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field installation of separate ducts, grills, and venting infrastructure. The entire ventilation system is prepared in advance as a complete unit that simply replaces the window.
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides weather protection, maintains structural integrity, enables ventilation through integrated vents, and allows future HVAC system upgrades. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated venting infrastructure.
3Reliability
If aging HVAC equipment is upgraded, then indoor air quality and energy efficiency improve, but installation cost increases due to existing infrastructure constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the venting infrastructure requirements from the building structure and integrates them directly into the window assembly. This allows HVAC equipment to be upgraded independently without being constrained by existing wall venting connections or ductwork.
Solution Approach 2:
The window-integrated vents provide flexible connection parameters for HVAC systems, allowing various duct sizes and configurations to be accommodated. The integrated design enables easy connection to modern HVAC equipment while maintaining compatibility with existing building envelopes.
4Ease of operation
If conventional HVAC systems are installed, then air circulation is provided, but energy efficiency decreases due to air leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly incorporates weather seals and gaskets that create flexible but effective barriers against air leakage. These sealing elements accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining airtight connections between the window frame and HVAC ductwork.
Solution Approach 2:
By integrating the vents directly into the window assembly rather than connecting separate ducts to wall openings, the invention eliminates multiple potential leakage points. The unified structure reduces gaps and joints where air could escape, improving overall system sealing.
Data Source
AI summary
A window-based HVAC interface system is provided as a convenient solution for installing and interfacing to a ventilation system in a new building or for upgrading an aging HVAC system in an existing building. The HVAC interface system may be optionally integrated with a window. The HVAC interface system includes separate but connectable components, including a hooded vent unit extending from the interior of a room, through a wall or window structure to the exterior, and connected thereto, a plenum box disposed in the room interior. The plenum box is configured to facilitate connection to an HVAC system such as an HPAC unit. The hooded vent unit may be provided as a portion of an integrated window assembly.