AU2010257293A1 - Outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct - Google Patents

Abstract

C\NRPonbhlDCCIL3V07J63_1 DOC Abstract An outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille and means for 5 adjusting airflow through the grille, wherein the grille comprises a first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which can be relocatably moved when the assembly is in situ to permit access to the airflow adjustment means. C 4RfctbfCC'jLk3l'6917_ .DOC- I 7/12l)IM ,~ ~ 34 >. 32 37 2531 25 27 38 -. ~j A 40

Description

Regulation 3.2 AUSTRALIA Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A STANDARD PATENT (ORIGINAL) Name of Applicants: Danielle Jane Bacon and Simon Luke Bacon Actual Inventors: Danielle Jane Bacon and Simon Luke Bacon Address for Service: DAVIES COLLISON CAVE, Patent Attorneys, 1 Nicholson, Melbourne, Victoria 3000. Invention Title: "Outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct" The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to us: C:\NRPortbl\DCC\L\3371348_I.DOC - 17/12/10 C \RPonbl\DCC\L\3307163_ DOC OUTLET ASSEMBLY FOR A HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING OR VENTILATING DUCT The present invention relates to outlet assemblies, including diffusers, for heating, air conditioning and ventilating ducts. The invention has application in particular to wall 5 mounted, ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted outlet assemblies/diffusers for residential, office and factory air conditioning/heating systems, though is not limited to such systems. According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air 10 which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille and means for adjusting airflow through the grille, wherein the grille comprises a first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which can be relocatably moved when the assembly is in situ to permit access to the airflow adjustment means. 15 The assembly may be one which couples, directly or indirectly, to the duct, or one which is adapted for mounting separately from the duct but adjacent an outlet thereof. Preferably, the second section is removable. 20 In the preferred embodiments of the invention, the second section at least partially conceals the airflow adjustment means. Preferably, the airflow adjustment means comprises a damper mechanism. In a preferred 25 embodiment of the invention, the airflow adjustment means comprises a pair of damper plates having adjacent proximal ends which are arranged to extend across the airflow, each plate being rotatable about its proximal end between an open position, in which it extends generally axially from its proximal end to permit the air to flow therepast, and a closed position, in which it extends laterally outwardly from its proximal end to restrict the air 30 from flowing therepast. The airflow adjustment means may be configured such that the plate(s) in their closed positions substantially prevent airflow therepast.

C NRPorbl\DCC\lL\3307J63_ .DOC In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the airflow adjustment means comprises at least one hand-operable actuator which is accessible, preferably through the first section, when the second section has been moved to permit access thereto. 5 Preferably, the at least one hand-operable actuator is a pair of actuators, each actuator being operably associated with a respective plate of said pair of damper plates. Preferably, each actuator comprises a projection able to be pushed or pulled to rotate the respective plate. Preferably, each projection is pinch-grippable. Preferably, each projection is formed as a tab. Preferably, each projection is supported from the respective plate. 10 Preferably, the damper plates in said pair of damper plates are mounted at their proximal ends on a single shaft to be rotatable about a common axis. Preferably, the proximal ends are centrally disposed with respect to the second section. 15 Preferably, the assembly further comprises a duct section which is arranged to be upstream of the grille and which is formed with an inlet to receive the air which is output from the duct. Preferably, the airflow adjustment means comprises at least one damper plate arranged in the duct section. 20 Preferably, the second section holds an agent for treating the air and is configured such that the agent is released into the airflow. 25 According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille having a first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ and a second section which is removable when the assembly is in situ, 30 the second section holding an agent for treating the air and being configured such that the agent is released into the air flowing through the assembly.

C \NRPortbrDCC\L\33(,7161 DOC -3 According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille having a first section which is 5 formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which holds an agent for treating the air and is configured such that the agent is released into the air flowing through the assembly, the second section being relocatably movable when the assembly is in situ to permit the second section to be resupplied with agent. 10 Preferably, the second section is removable. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, comprising a grille adapted to discharge 15 air which is output from the duct, and an agent for treating the air, wherein the agent is held so as to be released into the air as it flows through the assembly, in a manner such that air flow through the grille is substantially unobstructed. Preferably, the agent is held by the grille. In one embodiment of the invention, the 20 assembly further comprises a damper mechanism which is operable to adjust airflow through the assembly, and the agent, alternatively, is held by a damper plate of the mechanism. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the grille comprises a first section which is 25 formed with air discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which holds the agent, the second section being relocatably movable when the assembly is in situ to permit the second section to be resupplied with agent. 30 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the grille comprises a first section which is formed with one or more air discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ and a second section which holds the agent and is removable when C:\RPonbl\DCC\.33071631 DOC -4 the assembly is in situ. Preferably, the second section is formed with at least one air discharge opening. 5 Preferably, the assembly further comprises a duct section which is arranged to be upstream of the grille and which is formed with an inlet to receive the air which is output from the duct. The assembly according to the second or third aspect may, in some embodiments of the 10 invention, consist solely of the grille, and may be one which fixes to or couples with the duct. The assembly according to the fourth aspect may, in some embodiments, consist solely of the grille, which may be a single piece, and the agent held to the grille, and may also be one which fixes to or couples with the duct 15 Preferably, the agent is a scenting, odorising or fragrancing agent. In an embodiment of the invention, the agent evolves a perfumed odour. The agent may evolve an odour which smells of or like that of a food or foodstuff. The agent may evolve an odour which smells of or like that of a fruit or plant, e.g. citrus or vanilla, of or like that of a herb or spice, e.g. cinnamon, or of or like that of a confection, dessert or sweet food, e.g. "cookies and 20 cream". Alternatively or additionally, the agent may be a deodorising and/or antibacterial agent. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one element holds the agent. 25 Preferably the or each element is configured as a patch or strip. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the or each patch or strip lies in a plane which is generally aligned with a direction of airflow therepast. In this way, the patch or strip may pose little or no obstruction to airflow. 30 Preferably, the or each element is positioned to extend in general alignment with a said opening.

C:WNRPonbl\DCCJQL\330716AI DOC -5 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the or each element is applied to the second section. Preferably, agent is carried by a grille fin or louvre in the assembly. 5 Preferably, the or each element is removable to be replaceable with a like element. In one embodiment of the invention, the or each element may comprise an adhesive backing to mount the element. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the or each element comprises a magnetic backing which is receivable against a respective magnetic surface on 10 a part of the assembly to which it is applied to be mounted thereto. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the or each element comprises a portion formed of material which is imbued or impregnated with the agent. Preferably, the material is sticky to be held in position. Said material may be rendered adhesive when 15 imbued with the agent. Preferably, the agent is a liquid. The material may be one which absorbs the liquid. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the agent is carried by the second section and is configured to be removable such that when removed it can be replenished with agent. In 20 an alternative embodiment of the invention, the second section may be removable when the agent has been consumed and replaceable with another said second section, which is plenished with the agent. The first section may, in some embodiments of the invention, comprise two subsections of 25 the grille which are spaced apart. Preferably, the first section is fixed. Preferably, the second section is releasably snap-fittingly engaged with the remainder of 30 the assembly. Preferably, exterior faces of the first and second sections lie flush with each other.

C:\NRPonblDCC\iL\30716_1. DOC -6 Preferably, the assembly is provided as a unitary fitting. Preferably, the second section is a single piece. Alternatively, the second section may comprise a plurality of separately formed subsections. 5 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the grille is configured such that, when it is in situ, an exterior face thereof lies substantially flush with the surface of a ceiling or wall. Preferably, a periphery of the grille is receivable against the surface. 10 Preferably, the second section is releasable by hand and replaceable in position by hand, i.e. releasable and replaceable without the aid of any implement. Preferably, the second section is releasably engaged with the first section. 15 Preferably, the second section is centrally disposed with respect to the first section. Preferably, the second section is removable to be interchangeable with at least one other second section having a different external appearance therefrom. 20 According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a grille or grille fascia for an air outlet, comprising a first section which is formed with one or more openings to discharge air and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which is removable to be interchangeable with at least one other second section having a different external appearance therefrom. 25 According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly, grille or grille fascia as defined above and said other second section(s). According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly, 30 grille or grille fascia as defined above according to any one of the first to sixth aspects in situ. Preferably, the assembly, grille or grille fascia is ceiling-mounted.

C:\NRPorbKlDCClL\3b07163 1 DOC In the preferred embodiments of the invention, the first section forms most, or a main part, of the grille. According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a said second 5 section. According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a grille or grille fascia for an air outlet, comprising an exterior portion which can be seen through and which defines an outer face of the grille or grille fascia, whereby an area which the exterior 10 portion overlies is visible through the outer face to appear as backing to the exterior portion. Preferably, the exterior portion is transparent. 15 Preferably, the outer face is shiny. Preferably, the exterior portion comprises plastic. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the exterior portion comprises a layer or 20 coating, and said area is defined by an outwardly facing surface over which the layer or coating is applied. Preferably, said surface is defined by a backing layer, such as sheeting, or coating, such as paint, applied behind said layer or coating. The backing layer or coating may be applied over a surface of part of the grille structure which the exterior portion overlies. 25 In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the exterior portion may be defined by a layer or coating within which sheeting defining the backing is submerged. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the exterior portion is uncoloured and/or 30 untinted. Preferably, said area is opaque.

C:\NRPonb\DCCUL'33U1763_.DOC -8 The grille or grille fascia of the ninth aspect may define the grille of an assembly as described above. According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ceiling or wall 5 outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille section and means for adjusting airflow through the assembly, wherein the grille section can be relocatably moved when the assembly is in situ to permit access to the airflow adjustment means. 10 Preferably, the grille section is formed as a single piece. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly comprises a grille defined by the grille section and a further grille section, the further grille section being configured to 15 remain in place when the assembly is in situ. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the assembly comprises a grille the entirety of which is defined by the grille section. Preferably, the grille section is removable. 20 In the preferred embodiments of the invention, the grille section at least partially conceals the airflow adjustment means. Preferably, the airflow adjustment means comprises a damper mechanism. In a preferred 25 embodiment of the invention, the airflow adjustment means comprises a pair of damper plates having adjacent proximal ends which are arranged to extend across the airflow, each plate being rotatable about its proximal end between an open position, in which it extends generally axially from its proximal end to permit the air to flow therepast, and a closed position, in which it extends laterally outwardly from its proximal end to restrict the air 30 from flowing therepast. The airflow adjustment means may be configured such that the plate(s) in their closed positions substantially prevent airflow therepast.

C-\NRPorblDCC\lL\307163_1 DOC -9 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the airflow adjustment means comprises at least one hand-operable actuator which is accessible when the grille section has been moved to permit access thereto. 5 Preferably, the at least one hand-operable actuator is a pair of actuators, each actuator being operably associated with a respective plate of said pair of damper plates. Preferably, each actuator comprises a projection able to be pushed or pulled to rotate the respective plate. Preferably, each projection is pinch-grippable. Preferably, each projection is formed as a tab. Preferably, each projection is supported from the respective plate. 10 Preferably, the damper plates in said pair of damper plates are mounted at their proximal ends on a single shaft to be rotatable about a common axis. Preferably, the proximal ends are centrally disposed with respect to the second section. 15 Preferably, the assembly further comprises a duct section which is arranged to be upstream of the grille section and which is formed with an inlet to receive the air which is output from the duct. Preferably, the airflow adjustment means comprises at least one damper plate arranged in the duct section. 20 According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ceiling or wall outlet assembly as defined above in situ. Preferably, the outlet assembly is ceiling-mounted. 25 The present invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an upper perspective view of an outlet assembly for a heating or cooling duct in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which a 30 damper of the fitting is open; Figure 2 is a lower perspective view of the assembly, including a removable cover piece thereof; C WRPonbl\DCC\Im307163 _DOC - 10 Figure 3 is a lower perspective view of the assembly of the first embodiment, showing a cover piece of the fitting removed; Figure 4 is an exploded upper perspective view of the assembly of the first embodiment; 5 Figure 5 is an upper perspective view of the assembly of the first embodiment, in which the damper is closed; Figure 6 is a bottom view of the assembly of the first embodiment; Figure 7 is an upper perspective view of a removable cover piece of the assembly of the first embodiment; 10 Figure 8 is a top view of the cover piece; Figure 9 is a bottom view of the cover piece; Figure 10 is a bottom view of an alternative removable cover piece for the assembly of the first embodiment; Figure 11 is a bottom view of another alternative removable cover piece for the 15 assembly of the first embodiment; Figure 12 is a lower perspective view of an outlet assembly for a heating or cooling duct in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 13 is an upper perspective view of the assembly of the second embodiment. 20 An outlet fitting 1 for a heating or cooling duct in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 1 to 6. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the fitting I comprises an "adaptor" or duct section 3 which is configured to be coupled to an outlet of a heating or cooling duct (not shown), which may be arranged above a building ceiling or behind a building wall, and a grille 5, at an outlet end of the 25 body 3, which is receivable against the ceiling, wall or floor. With reference to Figure 3, the grille 5 comprises a fixed section 6 which forms the majority of the grille 5 and which is formed with a central opening 7 therein (see Fig. 3), and a removable section, in the form of a shield or cover piece 9, which mounted to the fixed section 6 and received in the opening 7, as will be described in further detail later, the sections 6 and 9 each being 30 moulded from opaque plastic. The fitting 1 further comprises a means for adjusting airflow through the fitting 1, which comprises a damper mechanism 20, as will be described in further detail later, the mechanism 20 being accessible through the opening 7 C:NRPorbhDCC\ML\33073_ I DOC - 11 when the cover piece 9 is removed. The fixed section 6 is formed with a plurality of elongate discharge apertures 8 therethrough, through which air flows from the duct section 3 into the room, the 5 apertures 8 being defined between fins 8A of the formed into the fixed section 6. The removable piece 9, which is generally rectangular, is also formed with elongate apertures 10 therethrough, which also define part of the visible grille pattern and through which air also flows from the duct section 3 into the room. In the removable piece 9, there are two apertures 10, one of which is defined between one of two outer fins 10A of the 10 removable piece 9 and a central rib 15 of the piece 9, and the other of which is defined between the other outer fin 10A and central rib 15. The grille, including the removable piece, may, in other embodiments, be configured in any of a number of forms, such as the form of a lattice or mesh, or a form in which the apertures form concentric shapes, such as rectangles or rings. 15 It will be noted that the fixed section 6 and removable section 9 define, by way of apertures 8 and 10, the discharge opening/aperture pattern/arrangement of the grille 5. Referring to Figures 1, 4 and 5, the duct section 3 is formed with a cylindrical portion 3A, 20 which is to be fitted to the outlet of the duct, a divergent portion 3B, extending from the cylindrical portion 3A, and a generally square flange portion 3C at an outlet end of the fitting 1. The portions 3A, 3B and 3C are integrally formed as a single moulding. The duct section 3 further comprises four spring-loaded clips 4 adjacent the corners of the flange portion 3C (the springs not being shown). The cylindrical portion 3A and divergent 25 portion 3B, including clips 4, are receivable through a hole, in the form of a rectangle the corners of which may be rounded, formed in a ceiling or wall, whereby the clips 4 are engageable with a concealed face of the ceiling or wall adjacent the periphery of the opening to hold the flange 3C against the (otherwise) exposed surface of the ceiling or wall and thus generally flush with the ceiling or wall surface. 30 The grille 5 is held to the flange 3C by adhesive, applied to the fixed part 6, and forms a fascia of the fitting 1. The divergent portion 3B distributes the air flowing out of the C:NRPobl\DCCILI307163_1 DOC - 12 cylindrical portion 3A so that it can be discharged through all of the apertures 8 in the grille 5, in addition to the apertures 10 in the removable piece 9. As mentioned above, the air flow control mechanism 20 comprises a damper mechanism. 5 The damper mechanism 20, as can best be seen at Figure 4, includes a pair of semi-circular damper plates 24 mounted to a common shaft 26 which extends diametrically through the cylindrical portion 3A, each plate being formed at a proximal end with a pair of spaced apart, coaxial sleeves 25, 27 received over the shaft 26, the sleeves 25, 27 of one plate being arranged at different axial locations from those of the other, whereby both plates 24 10 are rotatably mounted to the shaft 26. Formed on each plate 24 is an arm 29 for adjusting the angle of the plate 24. Each arm 29 is formed at a proximal end thereof with an actuator in the form of a tab 31 which extends approximately halfway around the axially inner sleeve 25 of the respective plate 24, and is 15 accessible through the opening 7 when the piece 9 is removed. Formed on the axially outer sleeve 27 of each plate 24 is a lug 32 which is configured with an axially outward facing hemispherical bump or nodule 34 for locking the respective damper plate 24 in any of a plurality of angular positions, as will be described in further 20 detail below. Received over each end of the shaft 26 is a respective locking element 36, an axially inward facing surface of which is formed with a plurality of hemispherical depressions 35, of a configuration complementary to that of the nodules 34, arranged in an arc. The 25 elements 36 are provided with holes 38 therethrough into which the respective ends of the shaft 26 are received such that the elements 36 are mounted to the shaft 26. Pins 40 are received through respective holes 42 formed through the wall of cylindrical portion 3A and into open ends of the shaft 26 to mount the shaft 26, and thus the damper mechanism 20, in the cylindrical portion 3A. A pin 36 is formed on the axially outwardly facing surface of 30 each locking element 36 and received in a respective hole 44 formed through the wall of cylindrical portion 3A to prevent rotation of the locking element 36.

C:NRPorb!\DCC\Mllu07161 DOC - 13 A person can adjust the angular position of each plate 24 by inserting their fingers through opening 7, pinching either or each of the tabs 31, and using it to rotate the respective plate 24 in one direction or the other. As the plate 24 is rotated, the respective nodule 34 is advanced along the arrangement of depressions 35 on the respective abutting locking 5 element 36 to be received in each depression 35 successively. The resilience of the interengagement between the lug 32 and locking element 36 is sufficient to retain the nodule 34 in whichever depression 35 in which it is received, thereby locking the plate 24 angularly until sufficient torque is exerted, via tab 31, to move the plate 24 to another angular position. 10 The cover piece 9 is formed along each longitudinal edge thereof with a pair of spaced apart locking tabs 11 each of which is configured with a laterally outwardly projecting lip 12 which, when the cover piece 9 is inserted into opening 7, is snappingly received into a corresponding slot 13 provided in a wall 14 formed on the fixed section 6 which extends 15 around the perimeter of the opening 7. A person can remove removable piece 9 by grasping the central rib 15 separating the two openings 10 and pulling it until the cover piece 9/tabs 1 flex sufficiently to cause the lips 12 to disengage from slots 13. The piece 9 is interchangeable with any of a plurality of other removable pieces, examples 20 of which are illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the other removable pieces having the same arrangement of locking tabs 11 with lips 12 but a different appearance from the removable piece 9 and also each other. One removable piece 9', shown in Figure 10, is of the same shape and configuration as piece 9 but is of a different colour (piece 9 being the same colour as the fixed section 6), whereas the removable piece 9" shown in Figure 11 is of the 25 same colour as the fixed section 6 but has a different configuration. The removable pieces may differ not only in colour and configuration, but also, for example, in finish or texture. Because the removable pieces are receivable in the opening 14, they at least partially conceal the plate proximal ends and the tabs 3 1. 30 Attached to each of two longitudinal faces of the piece 9 is a respective element, in the form of a strip 16 (as can be seen in Figures 4, 7 and 8), comprising an agent for CANRPorbl\DCClLU3716 I DOC - 14 fragrancing, scenting or odorising the air as it flows through the fitting 1, the longitudinal faces in this embodiment being laterally outer faces of outermost ones of the fins 1OA. Whilst these faces do not bound apertures 1OA, they are nevertheless exposed to the air flowing through the fitting 1, so that the agent is released into the air. In other 5 embodiments, one or more elements/strips could instead be attached to at least one other surface on the fitting I without departure from the invention, e.g. a surface on the or each damper plate 24, which is exposed to the flowing air, but will preferably be attached to grille 5 specifically. For example, a strip 16 could, alternatively or additionally, be attached to one or each of the inclined side faces of the central rib 15 shown in Figure 7 10 and/or attached to either or each of the side faces of any or all of the fins 8A and 1OA. The strips 16 may be coloured so as to indicate a fragrance thereof (e.g. yellow for lemon) or transparent so as not to be conspicuous. The agent may release any of a wide range of odours. It may release odour which smells 15 of or like that of a food or foodstuff. It may release an odour which smells of or like that of a fruit or plant, e.g. citrus or vanilla, of or like that of a herb or spice, e.g. cinnamon, or of or like that of a confection, dessert or sweet food, e.g. cookies and cream. The agent may, alternatively or additionally, comprise a deodorising and/or antibacterial 20 substance to treat the air. Each strip 16 includes a substrate or backing one surface of which is sticky and is received against the respective removable piece wall surface to hold the strip 16 to the removable piece. In the present embodiment, the agent is provided in the form of a gel or 25 silicone-like substance which is applied to the other surface of the substrate/backing. The longitudinal faces are arranged such that, when the piece 9 is mounted, they are spaced from the adjacent walls in the fixed part 6 in which the slots 13 are formed, so that the strips 16 are exposed to the air flow. The strip 16 releases the agent into the air flowing 30 through the fitting 1, and can be peeled off and replaced with a fresh strip or replenished with more agent when the agent is finished. Though not visible in the drawings, corresponding strips 16 are provided on the alternative cover pieces 9' and 9".

CANRPonblDCCML0307i6 l.DOC - 15 Alternatively, or additionally, a strip 16 can be provided on the inclined inner face of one or both of fins 10A and/or one or both of the inclined side faces of the central rib 15 of piece 9', and, likewise, can be provided on the inclined inner face of one or both fins IOA and/or one or both of the inclined side faces of either or both of the two central/inner 5 ribs 15 of the piece 9". In other embodiments, the or each element may be provided as a patch, rather than a strip. In another embodiment, the element may comprise a tablet formed from the agent. 10 Also in another embodiment, each strip 16 may instead have a magnetic backing, which is received against a magnetic surface, such as a metal strip, provided on the cover piece 9, to mount the strip 16 removably to the cover piece 9. 15 In yet a further embodiment, the element may comprise a portion formed of material which is imbued or impregnated with, and/or which absorbs, the agent, and which is sticky so to be received directly against a surface of the grille/cover piece to hold the element to the removable piece/shield. The material may be rendered adhesive when imbued with the agent, which agent may comprise a liquid. 20 Advantageously, the element(s) in each embodiment are configured and positioned so as not to obstruct airflow through the fitting, particularly the grille. A grille 5' of a second embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 12 and 13. 25 The grille 5' may form part of a fitting 1 according to the first embodiment or instead be provided as a separate assembly for mounting at or adjacent an outlet of a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, and thus constitute an outlet assembly in its own right. The grille 5' is substantially identical in shape and configuration to the grille 5 (whereby it 30 may substitute for the grille 5 in the fitting 1), comprising fixed section 6 and removable section 9, except that it further comprises an exterior moulded plastic layer 2 which is transparent and which defines a shiny or partially reflective exterior face 2A of the C\NRPotbfDCC\IL\3107161_1 DOC - 16 grille 5', whereby the outer surfaces of the fixed and removable sections which the layer 2 overlies, which surfaces may be defined by backing sheeting or paint applied to parts of the fixed and removable section structures, are visible through the face 2A, defining an opaque backing 2B. The combination of the transparent layer 2 and opaque backing 2B 5 afford the grille 5' an aesthetically pleasing appearance similar to that created by applying a backing, such as a coat of paint, to a pane of glass, e.g. in the manufacture of a splashback for a kitchen or bathroom. The layer 2, in other embodiments, need not be transparent, provided it can be seen 10 through sufficiently for the backing 2B to be discernible; for example, the layer 2 may be translucent. It is also envisaged that, in other embodiments, the exterior layer could be defined by a coating applied post-moulding, the coating being sufficiently thick that the backing is 15 discernibly behind the outer face, or could be replaced with an exterior portion defined by a layer or coating within which sheeting defining the backing is submerged. While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of 20 limitation. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments. 25 Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

Claims (53)

1. An outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille and 5 means for adjusting airflow through the grille, wherein the grille comprises a first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which can be relocatably moved when the assembly is in situ to permit access to the airflow adjustment means. 10

2. An assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second section is removable.

3. An assembly according to claim I or 2, wherein the airflow adjustment means comprises a damper mechanism. 15

4. An assembly according to claim 3, wherein the airflow adjustment means comprises a pair of damper plates having adjacent proximal ends which are arranged to extend across the airflow, each plate being rotatable about its proximal end between an open position, in which it extends generally axially from its proximal end to permit the air to flow therepast, and a closed position, in which it extends laterally outwardly from its 20 proximal end to restrict the air from flowing therepast.

5. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the airflow adjustment means comprises at least one hand-operable actuator which is accessible when the second section has been moved. 25

6. An assembly according to claim 5 as appended to claim 4, wherein the at least one hand-operable actuator is a pair of actuators, each actuator being operably associated with a respective plate of said pair of damper plates. 30

7. An assembly according to claim 4, claim 5 as appended thereto, or claim 6, wherein the damper plates in said pair of damper plates are rotatable about a common axis and the proximal ends are centrally disposed with respect to the second section. C :NRPonbl\DCCML\310716.1 DOC - 18

8. An assembly according to any one of claim 5 to 7, wherein the or each actuator comprises a projection able to be pushed or pulled.

9. An assembly according to claim 8, wherein the or each projection is 5 pinch-grippable.

10. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the assembly further comprises a duct section which is arranged to be upstream of the grille and which is formed with an inlet to receive the air which is output from the duct, and wherein the 10 airflow adjustment means comprises at least one damper plate arranged in the duct section.

11. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second section holds an agent for treating the air and is configured such that the agent is released into the airflow. 15

12. An outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille having a first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ and a second section which is removable 20 when the assembly is in situ, the second section holding an agent for treating the air and being configured such that the agent is released into the air flowing through the assembly.

13. An outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille having a 25 first section which is formed with one or more discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which holds an agent for treating the air and is configured such that the agent is released into the air flowing through the assembly, the second section being relocatably movable when the assembly is in situ to permit the second section to be resupplied with agent. 30

14. An assembly according to claim 13, wherein the second section is removable. C :NRPonbl\DCCILl\307163_L DOC - 19

15. An outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, comprising a grille adapted to discharge air which is output from the duct, and an agent for treating the air, wherein the agent is held so as to be released into the air as it flows through the assembly, in a manner such that airflow through the grille is substantially unobstructed. 5

16. An outlet assembly according to claim 15, wherein the agent is held by the grille.

17. An outlet assembly according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the grille comprises a first section which is formed with air discharge openings and is configured to remain in 10 place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which holds the agent, the second section being relocatably movable when the assembly is in situ to permit the second section to be resupplied with agent.

18. An outlet assembly according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the grille comprises 15 a first section which is formed with one or more air discharge openings and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ and a second section which holds the agent and is removable when the assembly is in situ.

19. An assembly according to any one of claims I to 14, 17 and 18, wherein the second 20 section is releasably snap-fittingly engaged with the remainder of the assembly.

20. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and 17 to 19, wherein the second section is releasable by hand and replaceable in position by hand. 25

21. An assembly according to any one claims I to 14 and 17 to 20, wherein the second section is centrally disposed with respect to the first section.

22. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and 17 to 21, wherein the second section is a single piece. 30

23. An assembly according to any one of claims I to 14 and 17 to 22, wherein the first section forms a main part of the grille. C -RPortblDCCML\3107161 LDOC -20

24. An assembly according to any one of claims I to 14 and 17 to 23, wherein the second section is formed with at least one discharge opening.

25. An assembly according to any one of claims I I to 18 or any one of claims 19 to 24 5 as appended thereto, wherein the agent is a scenting, odorising or fragrancing agent.

26. An assembly according to any one claims 11 to 18 or any one of claims 19 to 25 as appended thereto, wherein at least one element holds the agent. 10

27. An assembly according claim 26, wherein the element is configured as a patch or strip.

28. An assembly according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein the or each element is positioned to extend in general alignment with a said opening. 15

29. An assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the or each element lies in a plane which is generally aligned with a direction of airflow therepast.

30. An assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein the or each element 20 is removable such that it may be replaced with a like element.

31. An assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the or each element comprises a sticky surface which is received against a surface in the assembly to hold the element in position. 25

32. An assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 18, any one of claims 19 to 25 as appended thereto, or any one of claims 26 to 32, wherein the agent is carried by a fin or louvre of the assembly. 30

33. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the assembly being a unitary fitting. C:\NRPonbl\DCClL\33l7161 LDOC -21

34 An assembly according to any one of claims I to 14 and 17 to 24, or any one of claims 25 to 33 as appended thereto, wherein the second section is removable to be interchangeable with at least one other second section having a different external appearance therefrom. 5

35. In combination, an assembly according to claim 34 and said other second section(s).

36. A grille or grille fascia for an air outlet, comprising a first section which is formed 10 with one or more openings to discharge air and is configured to remain in place when the assembly is in situ, and a second section which is removable to be interchangeable with at least one other second section having a different external appearance therefrom.

37. In combination, a grille or grille fascia according to claim 36 and said other second 15 section(s).

38. A grille or grille fascia for an air outlet, comprising an exterior portion which can be seen through and which defines an outer face of the grille or grille fascia, whereby an area which the exterior portion overlies is visible through the outer face to appear as 20 backing to the exterior portion.

39. A grille or grille fascia according to claim 38, wherein the exterior portion is transparent. 25

40. A grille or grille fascia according to claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the outer face is shiny.

41. A grille or grille fascia according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the exterior portion is provided as a layer or coating and said area is defined by an outwardly 30 facing surface over which the layer or coating is applied.

42. A grille or grille fascia according to claim 38, wherein said surface is defined by a C:NRPonb\DCCIL\3307163_ I DOC - 22 backing layer or coating applied over a surface of the diffuser which the exterior portion overlies.

43. A grille or grille fascia according to claim 36 or any one of claims 38 to 42, 5 defining the grille of the assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 34.

44. A ceiling or wall outlet assembly for a heating, air conditioning or ventilating duct, the assembly being adapted to receive air which is output from the duct, and comprising a grille section and means for adjusting airflow through the assembly, wherein the grille 10 section can be relocatably moved when the assembly is in situ to permit access to the airflow adjustment means.

45. An assembly according to claim 44, wherein the grille section is formed as a single piece. 15

46. An assembly according to claim 44 or claim 45, wherein the grille section is removable.

47. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 46, wherein the airflow 20 adjustment means comprises at least one hand-operable actuator which is accessible when the grille section has been moved to permit access thereto. 47. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the airflow adjustment means comprises a damper mechanism. 25

48. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the airflow adjustment means comprises a pair of damper plates having adjacent proximal ends which are arranged to extend across the airflow, each plate being rotatable about its proximal end between an open position, in which it extends generally axially from its proximal end to 30 permit the air to flow therepast, and a closed position, in which it extends laterally outwardly from its proximal end to restrict or prevent the air from flowing therepast. C:WRPonbl\DCCiL\337163_ I DOC -23

49. An assembly according to claim 48, wherein the damper plates are mounted at their proximal ends on a single shaft to be rotatable about a common axis.

50. An assembly according to claim 48 or claim 49, wherein the proximal ends are 5 centrally disposed with respect to the second section.

51. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 50, further comprising a duct section which is arranged to be upstream of the grille section and which is formed with an inlet to receive the air which is output from the duct, wherein the airflow adjustment means 10 comprises at least one damper plate arranged in the duct section.

52. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 51, the assembly being accordant with any one of claims I to 34. 15

53. An assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 52, the assembly being ceiling-mounted.