US20160123682A1 - Air handling unit with internal support system - Google Patents
Air handling unit with internal support system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20160123682A1 US20160123682A1 US14/528,090 US201414528090A US2016123682A1 US 20160123682 A1 US20160123682 A1 US 20160123682A1 US 201414528090 A US201414528090 A US 201414528090A US 2016123682 A1 US2016123682 A1 US 2016123682A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- shelf
- supporting member
- air
- outer casing
- handling unit
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 239000012774 insulation material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 69
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 25
- 238000009833 condensation Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000005494 condensation Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 5
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 4
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002943 EPDM rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000877 Melamine resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011152 fibreglass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N melamine Chemical compound NC1=NC(N)=NC(N)=N1 JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N phenol group Chemical group C1(=CC=CC=C1)O ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 1
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- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/007—Auxiliary supports for elements
- F28F9/013—Auxiliary supports for elements for tubes or tube-assemblies
- F28F9/0132—Auxiliary supports for elements for tubes or tube-assemblies formed by slats, tie-rods, articulated or expandable rods
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/001—Casings in the form of plate-like arrangements; Frames enclosing a heat exchange core
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B81/00—Cabinets or racks specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F1/00—Room units for air-conditioning, e.g. separate or self-contained units or units receiving primary air from a central station
- F24F1/0007—Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units
- F24F1/0043—Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units characterised by mounting arrangements
- F24F1/005—Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units characterised by mounting arrangements mounted on the floor; standing on the floor
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to air handling units that include a plurality of shelves formed in an outer casing. More particularly, the present invention relates to a structure to securely fasten the shelves to the outer casing without interfering with any insulation in the air handling unit.
- All air handlers manufactured for both residential and commercial use, have the same distinct components: a fan or blower to move the air, a heat-exchanging coil to cool the air, and an outer casing to enclose the blower and the heat-exchanging coil.
- Most modern air handlers also include some kind of electronic control unit.
- the heat-exchanging coil is placed at a first end of the air handler, with the blower next to it.
- the blower pulls air from an inlet at one end of the air handler, and through the heat-exchanging coil, which cools or warms the air. Then the blower blows the cool or warm air out through an outlet on the other end of the air handler.
- the entire inside of the housing is cool or warm, and needs to be insulated.
- the shelves that support the blower and the heat-exchanging coil are typically attached to the outer casing with fasteners, such as screws or bolts, which pass through the wall of the outer casing as well as any insulation between the components and the area outside the outer casing.
- fasteners such as screws or bolts
- the insulation gotten stuck between the shelves and the outer casing will be compacted in the vicinity of the fastener. This reduces the effectiveness of the insulation, causing local temperature differentials. It is inefficient.
- it can provide locations for the formation of condensate if the air is cooled.
- condensate can form on the fasteners, especially if the units are installed in high-humidity and high-temperature areas.
- An air handling unit including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing through from a first opening on a first side of the outer casing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first supporting member placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing by a first attachment element; an heat exchanging coil attached to side of the second opening of first supporting member; a second supporting member placed in the air passage such that the heat exchanging coil is located between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a third supporting member configured to connect the first supporting member to second supporting member; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing, the insulation material being further located between the outer casing and the third supporting member, the insulation material being located adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- An air handling unit including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing from a first opening on a first side of the outer casing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first supporting member placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing; a heat-exchanging coil located in the air passage and affixed to a surface of the first supporting member facing the second opening; a second supporting member placed in the air passage such that the heat-exchanging coil is located between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a first connection member configured to connect the first supporting member and the second supporting member; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first supporting member and the second opening, the insulation material being further located between the first connection member and the outer casing, wherein the insulation material is unperforated between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- the third supporting member may be formed of steel, or aluminum.
- the insulation material may be made of a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound.
- the second support member will not be affixed to the outer casing.
- the casing insulation material will be located only between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- the third supporting member will be bent at an angle, the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to an intersection of a first side of the first supporting member and a second side of the first supporting member, the first and second sides of the first supporting member being adjacent to each other, and the third supporting member will be affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to an intersection of a first side of the second supporting member and a second side of the second supporting member, the first and second sides of the second supporting member being adjacent to each other.
- the air handling unit may further include a fourth supporting member configured to connect the first supporting member to the second supporting member.
- the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a first side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a first side of the second supporting member
- the fourth supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a second side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a second side of the second supporting member
- the first side of the first supporting member will be formed opposite to the second side of the first supporting member
- the first side of the second supporting member will be formed opposite to the second side of the second supporting member.
- the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a first side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a first side of the second supporting member
- the fourth supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a second side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a second side of the second supporting member
- the first side of the first supporting member will be formed adjacent to the second side of the first supporting member
- the first side of the second supporting member will be formed adjacent to the second side of the second supporting member.
- the fourth supporting member will be bent at an angle, the fourth supporting member will be affixed to a third side of the first supporting member and a fourth side of the first supporting member, the third and fourth sides of the first supporting member being adjacent to each other, and the fourth supporting member will be affixed to a third side of the second supporting member and a fourth side of the second supporting member, the third and fourth sides of the second supporting member being adjacent to each other.
- the air handling unit may further include a cross-brace connected between the third support member and the fourth support member.
- An air handling unit including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing from a first opening on a first side of the housing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first shelf placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing; a heat-exchanging coil located in the air passage and affixed to a surface of the first shelf facing the second opening; a second shelf placed in the air passage such that the heat-exchanging coil is located between the first shelf and the second shelf; a first rigid support strap configured to connect the first shelf to the second shelf; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first shelf and the second opening, the insulation material being further located between the first rigid support strap and the outer casing, wherein the insulation material is unperforated between the coil shelf and the second opening.
- the third supporting member will be formed of steel or aluminum.
- the insulation material will be a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound.
- the second shelf will not be affixed to the outer casing.
- the insulation material will be located only between the first shelf and the second opening.
- the first rigid support strap will be bent at an angle, the first rigid support strap will be affixed to a first side of the first shelf and a second side of the first shelf, the first and second sides of the first shelf being adjacent to each other, and the first rigid support strap will be affixed to a first side of the second shelf and a second side of the second shelf, the first and second sides of the second shelf being adjacent to each other.
- the air handling unit may further include a second rigid support strap configured to connect the first shelf to the second shelf.
- the first rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a first side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a first side of the second shelf
- the second rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a second side of the first shelf, and will be affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a second side of the second shelf
- the first side of the first shelf will be formed opposite to the second side of the first shelf
- the first side of the second shelf will be formed opposite to the second side of the second shelf.
- the first rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a first side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a first side of the second shelf
- the second rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a second side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a second side of the second shelf
- the first side of the first shelf will be formed adjacent to the second side of the first shelf
- the first side of the second shelf will be formed adjacent to the second side of the second shelf.
- the second rigid support strap will be bent at an angle, the second rigid support strap will be affixed to a third side of the first shelf and a fourth side of the first shelf, the third and fourth sides of the first shelf being adjacent to each other, and the second rigid support strap will be affixed to a third side of the second shelf and a fourth side of the second shelf, the third and fourth sides of the second shelf being adjacent to each other.
- the air handling unit may further include a cross-brace connected between the first rigid support strap and the second rigid support strap.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B show a perspective view of an air handling unit according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 5 is another cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 8 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 9 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 10 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 11 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 12 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an air handling unit having four connection elements, showing how the connection elements are attached to the coil shelf and the control shelf according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the air handling unit of FIG. 13 , showing the connection elements attached to the coil shelf and the control shelf according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit in a sideways position according to another disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to an disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having cross-braces according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit of FIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit of FIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment
- FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having a circular control shelf according to another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having a control shelf with rounded edges according to a disclosed embodiment.
- relational terms such as first and second, and the like, if any, are used solely to distinguish one from another entity, item, or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities, items or actions.
- positional terms such as front, back, side, top, bottom, over, and under are used solely to provide a reference point for one particular orientation, and to enhance the clarity of the disclosure. Their use does not imply that such an orientation is required. In operation, the disclosed air handling units can be used in any desired orientation.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of an air handling unit 100 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 1A illustrates the air handling unit 100 with an access panel 10 attached to a front face
- FIG. 1B illustrates the air handling unit 100 with the access panel 10 removed.
- the air handling unit 100 includes a return air section 1 , a cooling section 2 formed over the return air section 1 , and an outlet air section 3 formed over the cooling section 2 .
- An outer casing 5 (or housing) encloses the return air section 1 , the cooling section 2 , and the outlet air section 3 , which together form an air passage.
- the outer casing 5 includes an access panel 10 , which can be removed to provide access to the elements within the air passageway.
- the return air section 1 includes a first brace 25 and an air blower 40 ;
- the cooling section 2 includes a coil shelf 21 (a first supporting member) and a heat-exchanging coil 50 ; and
- the outlet air section 3 includes a control shelf 22 (a second supporting member) and an electronic control element 60 .
- a plurality of connection elements 30 (third through N th supporting members) hang from the edge of the outer casing 5 at an air outlet opening 12 (a second opening) in the outer casing 5 , and are secured to the coil shelf 21 and the control shelf 22 .
- the first brace 25 is located at the air return side of the air handling unit 100 (the bottom in FIG. 1B ), and is connected to the outer casing 5 . It defines a return opening 11 (a first opening) in the outer casing 5 , and also serves to provide structure to the outer casing 5 .
- the air blower 40 is supported by the coil shelf 21 , and operates to draw air into the return air section 1 from the return opening 11 , and blow it through the cooling section 2 , into the outlet air section 3 and finally out of the air handling unit 100 .
- the coil shelf 21 is secured to the outer casing 5 and the supporting members 30 , and serves to both provide structure to the outer casing 5 and provide support for the heat-exchanging coil 50 and the control shelf 22 .
- the coil shelf 21 contains an opening (not shown) to allow air to flow from the return air section 1 to the cooling section 2
- the heat-exchanging coil 50 is secured to the coil shelf 21 and operates to cool air that passes through the cooling section 2 from the return air section 1 to the outlet air section 3 . As noted above, air is blown by the air blower 40 from the return air section 1 into the cooling section 2 . This air passes through the heat-exchanging coil 50 , and in doing so is reduced in temperature. The airflow caused by the operation of the air blower 40 then moves this cool air from the coil section 2 into the outlet air section 3 .
- the control shelf 22 is connected to the connection elements 30 , but is not directly connected to the outer casing 5 . It is suspended between the coil shelf 21 and the outlet air opening 12 by the connection elements 30 .
- the control shelf 22 operates to provide structure to the outer casing 5 , and may also serve to support the electronic control element 60 .
- the control shelf 21 contains an opening (not shown) that allows air to pass from the cooling section 2 into the outlet air section 3 .
- the electronic control element 60 controls the operation of the air handling unit 100 . It can be attached to just the control shelf 21 , to just the outer casing 5 , or to both the control shelf 21 and the outer casing 5 .
- the electronic control element 60 can also contain some insulation located between its electronic circuits and the portion of the air passageway in the outlet air section 3 .
- the outer casing 5 surrounds all of the other elements of the air handling unit 100 , and operates to define the air passageway from the return air opening 11 to the air outlet opening 12 . It also serves to support the coil shelf 21 and the connection elements 30 .
- a layer of insulation (not shown) is provided between the air passage and the outer casing 5 , at least in the portion of the air passage between the coil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 . Insulation is only required in the air passage between the coil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 , since only this portion of the air passage will contain cool air.
- the air blower 40 is upstream from the heat-exchanging coil 50 in the air passage. As a result, the return air section 1 will contain non-cooled air received through the return opening 11 , which non-cooled air should be approximately the same temperature as the air outside of the air handling unit 100 .
- connection elements 30 in this embodiment hang from the edge of the outer casing 5 at the air outlet opening 12 in the outer casing 5 , and extend down to the coil shelf 21 along a side of the outer casing 5 . They are secured to the coil shelf 21 and the control shelf 22 inside the outer casing 5 . In some embodiments, the connection elements 30 may be secured to the outer casing 5 where they meet the edge of the coil shelf 21 , though in other embodiments they can simply hang from the outer casing 105 .
- connection elements 30 need only be connected to the control shelf 22 , and not to the coil shelf 21 or the outer casing 5 . In this case, the control shelf 22 will be secured in place entirely by the connection elements 30 .
- connection elements 30 hang from the edge of the outer casing 5 , and support the control shelf 22 , it is not necessary to pierce the outer casing 5 , or any insulation applied to the interior of the outer casing 5 between the coil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 (i.e., the area of the air passage that contains cool air that is insulated). Since the insulation is never pierced, there is no area between the coil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 in which the insulation is less effective. Similarly, since no connection elements stick out into the air passage, there are also no locations within this portion of the air passage in which there is a greater propensity for condensate to form.
- This embodiment is only effective when the air handling unit 100 is installed upright, however, since the connection elements 30 hang from the edge of the outer casing 5 .
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit 200 according to another disclosed embodiment.
- the air handling unit 200 can be arranged in any orientation, not just upright. It can be turned upside down or laid on its side, and it will still function properly.
- FIG. 2 is the cross section along the line II-II′ in FIGS. 6-12 .
- the air handling unit 200 has a return air section 101 , a cooling section 102 formed adjacent to the return air section 101 , and an outlet air section 103 formed adjacent to the cooling section 102 , all enclosed by an outer casing 105 (or housing).
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , a return air opening 111 (a first opening), an outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), casing insulation 118 , a coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), a control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), a first brace 125 , a second brace 126 , a third brace 127 , a plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through N th supporting members), an air blower 140 , a heat-exchanging coil 150 , and a vertical drain pan 155 .
- the outer casing 105 encloses the return air section 101 , the cooling section 102 , and the outlet air section 103 to define an air passageway for the passage of air from the air return opening 111 to the outlet air opening 112 .
- the outer casing 105 contains an access opening (not shown in FIG. 2 ) to provide the user with access to its internal components.
- the outer casing 105 is connected to and provides support to the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , and the coil shelf 121 .
- the outer casing 105 is made of metal, such as steel.
- the outer casing 105 could also be made of aluminum, plastic, or any other suitable material.
- the return air opening 111 is formed in the outer casing 105 at an end of the return air section 101 opposite the cooling section 102 . It provides a place for non-cooled air to be brought into the air passageway to be cooled.
- the air outlet opening 112 is formed in the outer casing 105 at an end of the air outlet section 103 opposite the cooling section 102 . It provides a location for cooled air to be output from the air passageway.
- the casing insulation 118 is formed next to the outer casing 105 between the coil shelf 121 and the outlet air opening 112 . It operates to insulate the air passageway between the coil shelf 121 and the outlet air opening 112 from the area outside the outer casing 105 . None pierces or perforates the casing insulation 118 between the coil shelf 121 and the outlet air opening 112 .
- the casing insulation 118 is a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound, such as Polytech® Low-FS Closed Cell Foam or Aerocell® EPDM Elastomeric Sheet Insulation.
- insulating materials such as fiberglass, mineral wood, polyester, melamine, phenolic, polyethylene, or cotton, could be used.
- the coil shelf 121 is formed where the return air section 101 and the cooling section 102 meet. It abuts the walls of the outer casing 105 , and has a coil shelf opening 113 in its middle, to allow air to pass from the return air section 101 to the cooling section 102 .
- the coil shelf 121 is attached to both the outer casing 105 and two each of the plurality of flat connection elements 130 by one or more affixing elements 180 , such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the flat connection elements 130 to the coil shelf 121 . In this way, the coil shelf 121 (and the outer casing 105 ) support the plurality of flat connection elements 130 .
- the control shelf 122 is formed where the cooling section 102 and the air outlet section 103 meet. It is attached to each of the plurality of flat connection elements 130 by one or more affixing elements 180 , such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the flat connection elements 130 to the coil shelf 121 .
- the control shelf 122 has a control shelf opening 114 in its middle, to allow air to pass from the cooling section 102 to the outlet air section 103 .
- the control shelf 122 is formed such that the casing insulation 118 is located between the control shelf 122 and the outer casing 105 .
- the control shelf 122 is not directly connected to the outer casing 105 .
- the first brace 125 and the second brace 126 are formed proximate to the return air opening 111 , and serve to support the return air opening 111 and the portion of the outer casing 105 next to the return air opening 111 .
- the third brace 127 is formed proximate to the outlet air opening 112 and serves to support the output air opening 112 and the portion of the outer casing 105 next to the output air opening 112 .
- braces 125 , 126 , 127 are shown in this embodiment more or fewer braces could be used in alternate embodiments. Some embodiments could eliminate the braces altogether.
- the plurality of flat connection elements 130 extend between the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 , and are connected to both the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 by connection elements 180 , such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the flat connection elements 130 to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- connection elements 180 such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the flat connection elements 130 to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- the plurality of flat connection elements 130 are each connected to the top surface of the coil shelf 121 , and are connected to a side surface of the control shelf 122 .
- the plurality of flat connection elements 130 could be connected to different portions of the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- the portion of the flat connection elements 130 proximate to the coil shelf 121 could be further connected to the outer casing 105 .
- the portion of the flat connection elements 130 proximate to the control shelf 122 are not directly connected to the outer casing 105 .
- the casing insulation 118 is formed between the flat connection elements 130 and the outer casing 105 from the coil shelf 121 to the control shelf 122 .
- the air blower 140 operates to draw air into the return air section 101 from the return opening 111 , and blow it into the cooling section 102 , then into the outlet air section 103 , and finally out of the air handling unit 200 through the outlet opening 112 .
- the heat-exchanging coil 150 is secured to the coil shelf 121 and operates to cool air that passes through the cooling section 102 from the return air section 101 to the outlet air section 103 . Air is blown by the air blower 140 from the return air section 101 into the cooling section 102 . This air passes through the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and in doing so is reduced in temperature. The airflow caused by the operation of the air blower 140 then moves this cool air from the coil section two into the outlet air section 103 .
- the vertical drain pan 155 is placed below the heat-exchanging coil 150 and operates to collect condensation that forms on and around the heat-exchanging coil 150 .
- the vertical drain pan 155 has at least one outlet to remove the condensation from the vertical drain pan 155 .
- the vertical drain pan 155 has a vertical drain pan opening 115 in its middle, to allow air to pass from the return air section 101 to the cooling section 102 .
- an additional vertical drain pan (not shown) should be placed beneath the heat-exchanging coil 150 . Because it would not be placed within the center of the air passage, such a vertical drain pan would not need an opening in its middle.
- FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit 200 of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 3 is the cross section along the line III-III′ in FIGS. 6-12 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), the casing insulation 118 , the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), the air blower 140 , the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and the vertical drain pan 155 .
- the outer casing 105 , the air return opening 111 , the outlet air opening 112 , the casing insulation 118 , the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the air blower 140 , the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and the vertical drain pan 155 all operate as described above with respect to FIG. 2 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- the plurality of bent connection elements 135 extend between the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 , and are connected to both the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 by connection elements 180 , such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the bent connection elements 135 to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- connection elements 180 such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching the bent connection elements 135 to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- the plurality of bent connection elements 135 are each connected to the top surface of the coil shelf 121 , and are connected to a side surface of the control shelf 122 .
- the plurality of bent connection elements 135 could be connected to different portions of the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- the portion of the bent connection elements 135 proximate to the coil shelf 121 could be further connected to the outer casing 105 .
- the portions of the bent connection elements 135 proximate to the control shelf 122 are not directly connected to the outer casing 105 .
- the casing insulation 118 is formed between the bent connection elements 135 and the outer casing 105 from the coil shelf 121 to the control shelf 122 .
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit 200 of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 4 is the cross section along the line IV-IV′ in FIGS. 6-12 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , an access panel 110 , the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), the casing insulation 118 , access panel insulation 119 , the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through N th supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), the air blower 140 , the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and an electronic control element 160 .
- the outer casing 105 , the air return opening 111 , the outlet air opening 112 , the casing insulation 118 , the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 , the air blower 140 , and the heat-exchanging coil 150 all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- the access panel 110 is configured to cover an access opening formed on a front of the outer casing 105 , and to seal off of the air passageway, except for the return air opening 111 and the outlet air opening 112 .
- the access opening is provided so that an operator can access the elements of the air handling unit 200 in the air passageway.
- the access panel is made of the same material as the outer casing 105 . However, in alternate embodiments, a different material can be used.
- the access panel insulation 119 is formed next to the access panel 110 such that, together with the casing insulation 118 , it will insulate the air passageway between the first shelf 121 and the air outlet opening 112 when the access panel 110 is attached to the housing 105 . None pierces or perforates the access panel insulation 119 where it is formed.
- the electronic control element 160 serves to control the operation of the air blower 140 and the heat-exchanging coil 150 .
- the electronic control element 160 is insulated such that it insulates the air passageway from the remainder of the electronic control element 160 .
- the access panel insulation 119 only needs to extend between the coil shelf 121 and the electronic control element 160 .
- the insulation in the electronic control element 160 serves to insulate the portion of the air passageway adjacent to it.
- the electronic control element 160 might not be insulated, in which case the access panel insulation 119 should extend from the coil shelf 121 all the way to the output air opening 112
- the electronic control element 160 is affixed to the control shelf 122 , but not the outer casing 105 .
- the electronic control element 160 could be a fixed to the outer casing 105 , or both the control shelf 122 and the outer casing 105 . Because the electronic control element 160 is insulated, there is no need to have the casing insulation 118 formed adjacent to it. As result, affixing the electronic control element 160 to the outer casing 105 would not pierce the casing insulation 118 .
- FIG. 5 is another cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 5 is the cross section along the line V-V′ in FIGS. 6-12 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), the casing insulation 118 , the access panel insulation 119 , the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), the air blower 140 , the heat-exchanging coil 150 , the vertical drain pan 155 , and the electronic control element 160 .
- FIG. 5 shows that the second supporting members 135 extend along the back of the air handling unit 200 (and thus the back of the coil shelf 121 and the back of the control shelf 122 ). By extending along both the side and the back of both the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 , the second supporting members 135 provide greater stability to the entire structure.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 6 is the cross section along the line VI-VI′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the return air opening 111 (a first opening), the second brace 126 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 6 shows that the second brace 126 helps to form the return air opening 111 at one end of the air handling unit 200 . Since the air drawn in through the return air opening 111 is non-cooled air, there is no need for any insulation adjacent to the outer casing 105 or the access panel 110 . As result, the second brace 126 can be affixed to the outer casing 105 by a plurality of affixing elements 180 .
- FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 7 is the cross section along the line VII-VII′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , and the air blower 140 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 7 shows that in the return air section 101 , in which the air blower 140 is placed, there is no need for any insulation adjacent to either the outer casing 105 or the access panel 110 . This is because the air passing through the return air section 101 is non-cooled air.
- FIG. 8 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 8 is the cross section along the line VIII-VIII′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , and the coil shelf. These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 8 shows that there is no insulation needed adjacent to the coil shelf 121 . This is because air passing through the coil shelf opening 113 is still non-cooled air, which does not need to be insulated from air outside of the outer casing 105 . As a result, the coil shelf 121 can be affixed to the outer casing 105 using the plurality of affixing elements 180 , without piercing or puncturing any insulation, 118 , 119 .
- FIG. 9 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 9 is the cross section along the line IX-IX′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through N th supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), and the vertical drain pan 155 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 9 shows that in addition to extending from the coil shelf 121 to the control shelf 122 , the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 are bent at the bottom so that they can extend for some distance flat against the top surface of the coil shelf 121 . This allows them to be securely affixed to the coil shelf 121 by affixing elements 180 , while leaving some room for the casing insulation 118 to be placed in between the remainder of the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 and the outer casing 105 .
- the access panel insulation 119 extends such that it is adjacent to the vertical drain pan 155 in order to provide better coverage of the insulation along the inside of the outer casing 105 .
- FIG. 10 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 10 is the cross section along the line X-X′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the casing insulation 118 , the access panel insulation 119 , the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through N th supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), and the heat-exchanging coil 150 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 10 shows that the portion of the cooling section 102 above the coil shelf 121 , and above the portions of the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 that extend along the top surface of the coil shelf 121 , must be insulated. This is because in this portion of the air passageway, the heat-exchanging coil 150 is cooling the air received from the return air section 101 . As a result the air in this portion of the air passageway will be cooler than the air outside of the outer casing 105 .
- FIG. 10 illustrates how the bent connection elements 135 are bent such that they run parallel to both the side and the back of the outer casing 105 .
- FIG. 11 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 11 is the cross-section along the line XI-XI′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the casing insulation 118 , the access panel insulation 119 , the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through N th supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), and the control shelf 122 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 11 shows that the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 are placed such that the casing insulation 118 is located between the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 and the outer housing 105 .
- FIG. 11 shows that the control shelf 122 is further connected to the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 inside of the casing insulation 118 .
- FIG. 12 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit of FIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 12 is the cross section along the line XII-XII′ in FIGS. 2-5 .
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the access panel 110 , the casing insulation 118 , and the electronic control element 160 . These elements all operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- the electronic control element 160 is insulated such that, together with the casing insulation 118 , it insulates the outlet air section 103 of the air passageway. In alternate embodiments, however, the electronic control element 160 need not be insulated. In such embodiments, the casing insulation 118 and the access panel insulation 119 should be extended such that they surround the electronic control element 160 , in order to adequately insulate the outlet air section 103 of the air passageway.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an air handling unit having four connection elements 130 , 135 , showing how the connection elements 130 , 135 are attached to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 according to a disclosed embodiment; and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the air handling unit of FIG. 13 , showing the connection elements 130 , 135 attached to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- the flat connection elements 130 have bent portions at the bottom that are connected to a top surface of the coil shelf 121 , while the flat connection elements 130 are connected at the top to a side surface of the control shelf 122 .
- the bent connection elements 135 have bent portions at the bottom that are connected to a top surface of the coil shelf 121 , while the bent connection elements are connected at the top to both side surfaces and back surfaces of the control shelf 122 .
- affixing elements 180 may be screws, bolts or any appropriate mechanism for affixing the flat and bent connection elements 130 , 135 to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- FIGS. 13 and 14 also show that the control shelf 122 includes a plurality of access holes 190 . These access holes 190 allow control lines to extend from the electronic control element 160 to the air blower 140 and the heat-exchanging coil 150 below.
- FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit in a sideways position according to another disclosed embodiment.
- FIG. 15 is similar to FIG. 3 , except that FIG. 3 shows the air handling unit 200 positioned upright, while FIG. 15 shows the air handling unit 200 positioned on its side.
- the air handling unit 200 includes: the outer casing 105 , the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), the casing insulation 118 , the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), the first brace 125 , the second brace 126 , the third brace 127 , the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through N th supporting members), the air blower 140 , the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and a horizontal drain pan 156 . All of these items, except for the horizontal drain pan 156 , operate as described above with respect to FIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- the horizontal drain pan 156 is placed under the heat-exchanging coil 150 , and operates to collect condensation that forms on and around the heat-exchanging coil 150 .
- the horizontal drain pan 156 has at least one outlet to remove the condensation from the horizontal drain pan 156 .
- the horizontal drain pan 156 requires no such opening in its middle. Air passes above the horizontal drain pan 156 as it passes through the air passageway.
- FIG. 15 illustrates how the framework of the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , and the connection elements 130 , 135 are supported when the air handling unit 200 is positioned on its side. Because the heat-exchanging coil 150 is heavy, and is affixed to the coil shelf 121 , the entire framework of the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , and the connection elements 130 , 135 will press down toward one side (now bottom) of the outer casing 105 .
- control shelf 122 Since the control shelf 122 is not affixed to the other side (now top) of the outer casing 105 , the framework of the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , and the connection elements 130 , 135 the control shelf 122 would tend to dip toward the outer casing 105 in the area closest to the control shelf 122 , absent some additional support. Such motion of this framework would cause stress on the coil shelf 121 and outer casing 105 where the two are affixed by affixing elements 180 .
- the flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound used as the casing insulation 118 in the disclosed embodiment is firm enough that when the weight of the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , the connection elements 130 , 135 , and the heat-exchanging coil 150 are spread out along where the connection elements 130 , 135 contact the casing insulation 118 , the casing insulation 118 will provide support to the framework of the coil shelf 121 , the control shelf 122 , and the connection elements 130 , 135 . The support is sufficient that no undue strain will be placed on the outer casing 105 , the coil shelf 121 , or the affixing elements 180 that affix the two together.
- FIGS. 2-15 show one possible arrangement of connection elements 130 , 135 for use in an air handling unit.
- this is by way of example only. Numerous other arrangements are possible, as shown by FIGS. 16-23 , which roughly correspond to FIG. 10 in the previously disclosed embodiment.
- each of FIGS. 16-23 corresponds to a cross-section along the place designated by the line X-X′ in FIGS. 2-5 in an alternate embodiment.
- each of these embodiments includes an outer casing 105 , an access panel 110 , casing insulation 118 , access insulation 119 , and a heat-exchanging coil 150 .
- These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 1600 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16 , in this embodiment, four flat connection elements 130 are provided, two each on opposite sides of the air handling unit 1600 .
- FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 1700 according to another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17 , in this embodiment six flat connection elements 130 are provided, two each on opposite sides of the air handling unit 1700 , and two along the back of the air handling unit 1700 .
- FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 1800 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18 , in this embodiment four bent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each corner of the air handling unit 1800 .
- FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 1900 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19 , two flat connection elements 130 are provided, two at the front of the air handling unit 1900 , and two at the back of the air handling unit 1900 .
- connection elements 130 , 135 may avoid using connection elements 130 , 135 in the front of the air handling unit so as to avoid interfering with the access panel 110 , there is no structural reason why they can't be placed there. All that would be necessary to accommodate this placement would be to arrange the elements inside the outer casing 105 such that they could be properly serviced despite the presence of the connection elements 130 , 135 .
- FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 2000 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20 , two flat connection elements 130 are provided, one at the front of the air handling unit 2000 , and two bent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each back corner of the air handling unit 2000 .
- FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 2100 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21 three flat connection elements 130 are provided, two on either side of the air handling unit 2100 , and one at the back of the air handling unit 2100 , and one bent connection element 135 is provided at one of the back corners of the air handling unit 2100 . FIG. 21 shows that there is no need for the connection elements 130 , 135 to be placed symmetrically, provided they give adequate support to the heat-exchanging coil 150 and the control shelf 122 .
- FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 2200 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 22 , two bent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each of the front corners of the air handling unit 2200 , and two flat connection elements 130 are provided, both at the back of the air handling unit 2200 . In addition, FIG. 22 shows that it is possible for at least some part of the connection elements 130 , 135 to run between the casing insulation 118 and the outer casing 105 .
- FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 2300 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown in FIG. 23 , four flat connection elements 130 are provided, two at one side of the air handling unit 2300 and 2 at the back of the air handling unit 2300 .
- connection elements 130 , 135 in various positions along the inside walls of the outer housing 105 .
- connection elements 130 , 135 can also include cross-braces 195 to further support the connection elements 130 , 135 , and thereby the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 .
- FIGS. 24-26 disclose an embodiment in which cross-braces 195 are provided.
- this embodiment includes an outer casing 105 , an access panel 110 , casing insulation 118 , access insulation 119 , first, second, and third braces 125 , 126 , 127 , a coil shelf 121 , a control shelf 122 , a heat-exchanging coil 150 , and an electronic control element 160 .
- These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- connection elements 130 are provided, two at one side of the air handling unit 2300 and two at the back of the air handling unit 2300 .
- a pair of cross-braces 195 are provided connecting the pair of connection elements 130 on each side of the outer casing 105 .
- FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 2400 having cross-braces 195 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XIV-XIV′ in FIGS. 25 and 26 .
- FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit 2400 of FIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XV-XV′ in FIG. 24 .
- FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit 2400 of FIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XVI-XVI′ in FIG. 24 .
- cross-braces 195 are shown as being connected to the top and bottom of the flat connection elements 130 , in alternate embodiments they could be connected at different points along the flat connection elements. Furthermore, cross-braces could be used with bent connection elements 135 , or in combination with both a flat connection element 130 and a bent connection element 135 .
- connection elements 130 , 135 strengthens the support provided by connection elements 130 , 135 . This can allow for the use of fewer connection elements 130 , 135 , or can allow for connection elements 130 , 135 to be placed in positions that might not otherwise provide an adequate support for the heat-exchanging coil 150 and the coil shelf 122 .
- connection elements 130 , 135 that are connected on a side surface of the control shelf 122 , and are bent at the bottom to connect to a top surface of the coil shelf 121 , this is by way of example only.
- the connection elements 130 , 135 can be shaped to connect to the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 in different ways. In such embodiments, the coil shelf 121 , and the control shelf 122 would be modified, as necessary, to provide the proper holes for attaching affixing elements 180 .
- the above embodiments place the insulation 118 , 119 between the connection elements 130 , 135 and the outer casing 105 , this also is not required.
- FIGS. 27-29 illustrate just a few alternate embodiments of the connection elements 130 , 135 .
- FIG. 27 corresponds generally to a side cross-sectional view along line V-V′ in FIGS. 6-12 , although in an alternate embodiment.
- FIGS. 28 and 29 correspond generally to a front cross-sectional view along the line II-II′ in FIGS. 6-12 , although in alternate embodiments.
- these embodiments each include an outer casing 105 , an access panel 110 , casing insulation 118 , access insulation 119 , first, second, and third braces 125 , 126 , 127 , an air blower 140 a heat-exchanging coil 150 , a drain pan 155 , and an electronic control element 160 .
- These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here.
- FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of an air handling unit 2700 according to another disclosed embodiment.
- a bent connection element 2735 is bent at the bottom such that it can be affixed to a top surface of the coil shelf 2721 , and is bent at the top such that it can be affixed to a bottom surface of the control shelf 2722 .
- the bottom bend is pointed inward in this embodiment, rather than outward.
- FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit 2800 according to another disclosed embodiment.
- flat connection elements 2830 are not bent at the bottom, but rather are configured to fit through a slot in the coil shelf 2821 , where they are secured to the coil shelf 2821 .
- the flat connection elements 2830 are bent inward at the top such that they can be affixed to a top surface of the control shelf 2822 .
- FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit 2900 according to yet another disclosed embodiment.
- flat connection elements 2930 are bent inward at the bottom to connect to a top surface of the coil shelf 2921 , and are bent inward at the top to connect to a top surface of the control shelf 2922 .
- the flat connection elements 2930 are placed such that they extend between the casing insulation 118 and the outer housing 105 .
- FIG. 27 illustrates an alternate embodiment for a bent connection element 2735
- FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate alternate embodiments for flat connection elements 2830 , 2930
- the teachings of these embodiments are equally applicable to modifications of both kinds of connection elements 130 , 135 .
- the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 are disclosed as being rectangular in shape, this is not a requirement. In alternate embodiments, these shelves 121 , 122 can vary in shape.
- FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 3000 having a circular control shelf 3022 according to a disclosed embodiment.
- the circular control shelf 3022 can be attached to flat connection elements 130 along its perimeter. If the coil shelf 121 is rectangular, the circular shelf 3022 can be attached to flat connection elements 130 where the circular shelf 3022 is tangential to the walls of the outer casing 105 , so that the flat connection elements 130 can be placed where they can be easily attached to the coil shelf 121 .
- control shelf 3022 (or a modified coil shelf 121 ) actually only has one side (i.e., the circumferential side of the circular shelf), references to the front, sides, and back sides of the shelf 3022 can nevertheless be made based on the general position of the shelf 3022 .
- the circumference of the control shelf 3022 in FIG. 30 can be broken up into four arcs, one representing a front surface of the circular control shelf 3022 , two representing side surfaces of the circular control shelf 3022 , and one representing a back surface of the circular control shelf 3022 .
- FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit 3100 having a control shelf 122 with rounded edges according to another disclosed embodiment.
- the control shelf 122 is roughly rectangular, but with rounded edges. It can still be attached to the flat connection elements 130 along its periphery. Furthermore, it still retains a front surface, two side surfaces, and a back surface, despite the fact that its corners are rounded.
- FIGS. 30 and 31 describe alternate shapes of the control shelf 122 , the same is true for the coil shelf 121 .
- the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 can have the same shape or different shapes, provided they can be properly connected by connection elements (in whatever form those connection elements take).
- the coil shelf 121 and the control shelf 122 can have shapes that include polygonal shapes, circular or oval shapes, polygonal shapes with rounded edges, or even irregular shapes.
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Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to air handling units that include a plurality of shelves formed in an outer casing. More particularly, the present invention relates to a structure to securely fasten the shelves to the outer casing without interfering with any insulation in the air handling unit.
- All air handlers, manufactured for both residential and commercial use, have the same distinct components: a fan or blower to move the air, a heat-exchanging coil to cool the air, and an outer casing to enclose the blower and the heat-exchanging coil. Most modern air handlers also include some kind of electronic control unit. In addition, there is typically a shelf or cross-member in the outer casing provided to support each of these main components.
- The heat-exchanging coil is placed at a first end of the air handler, with the blower next to it. In operation, the blower pulls air from an inlet at one end of the air handler, and through the heat-exchanging coil, which cools or warms the air. Then the blower blows the cool or warm air out through an outlet on the other end of the air handler. As a result, the entire inside of the housing is cool or warm, and needs to be insulated.
- The shelves that support the blower and the heat-exchanging coil are typically attached to the outer casing with fasteners, such as screws or bolts, which pass through the wall of the outer casing as well as any insulation between the components and the area outside the outer casing. In fastening the shelves to the outer casing by the fasteners, the insulation gotten stuck between the shelves and the outer casing will be compacted in the vicinity of the fastener. This reduces the effectiveness of the insulation, causing local temperature differentials. It is inefficient. In addition, it can provide locations for the formation of condensate if the air is cooled. In particular, condensate can form on the fasteners, especially if the units are installed in high-humidity and high-temperature areas.
- It would therefore be desirable to provide a way of securing a blower and a heat-exchanging coil to an outer casing without providing areas of temperature differential, or locations where condensate can easily form.
- An air handling unit is provided, including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing through from a first opening on a first side of the outer casing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first supporting member placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing by a first attachment element; an heat exchanging coil attached to side of the second opening of first supporting member; a second supporting member placed in the air passage such that the heat exchanging coil is located between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a third supporting member configured to connect the first supporting member to second supporting member; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing, the insulation material being further located between the outer casing and the third supporting member, the insulation material being located adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- An air handling unit is provided, including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing from a first opening on a first side of the outer casing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first supporting member placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing; a heat-exchanging coil located in the air passage and affixed to a surface of the first supporting member facing the second opening; a second supporting member placed in the air passage such that the heat-exchanging coil is located between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a first connection member configured to connect the first supporting member and the second supporting member; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first supporting member and the second opening, the insulation material being further located between the first connection member and the outer casing, wherein the insulation material is unperforated between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- In some embodiments, the third supporting member may be formed of steel, or aluminum.
- In some embodiments, the insulation material may be made of a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound.
- In some embodiments, the second support member will not be affixed to the outer casing.
- In some embodiments, the casing insulation material will be located only between the first supporting member and the second opening.
- In some embodiments, the third supporting member will be bent at an angle, the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to an intersection of a first side of the first supporting member and a second side of the first supporting member, the first and second sides of the first supporting member being adjacent to each other, and the third supporting member will be affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to an intersection of a first side of the second supporting member and a second side of the second supporting member, the first and second sides of the second supporting member being adjacent to each other.
- The air handling unit may further include a fourth supporting member configured to connect the first supporting member to the second supporting member.
- In some embodiments, the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a first side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a first side of the second supporting member, the fourth supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a second side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a second side of the second supporting member, the first side of the first supporting member will be formed opposite to the second side of the first supporting member, and the first side of the second supporting member will be formed opposite to the second side of the second supporting member.
- In some embodiments, the third supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a first side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a first side of the second supporting member, the fourth supporting member will be affixed to the first supporting member, proximate to a second side of the first supporting member, and is affixed to the second supporting member, proximate to a second side of the second supporting member, the first side of the first supporting member will be formed adjacent to the second side of the first supporting member, and the first side of the second supporting member will be formed adjacent to the second side of the second supporting member.
- In some embodiments, the fourth supporting member will be bent at an angle, the fourth supporting member will be affixed to a third side of the first supporting member and a fourth side of the first supporting member, the third and fourth sides of the first supporting member being adjacent to each other, and the fourth supporting member will be affixed to a third side of the second supporting member and a fourth side of the second supporting member, the third and fourth sides of the second supporting member being adjacent to each other.
- The air handling unit may further include a cross-brace connected between the third support member and the fourth support member.
- An air handling unit is provided, including: an outer casing that defines an air passage for air passing from a first opening on a first side of the housing to a second opening on a second side of the outer casing; a first shelf placed in the air passage and affixed to the outer casing; a heat-exchanging coil located in the air passage and affixed to a surface of the first shelf facing the second opening; a second shelf placed in the air passage such that the heat-exchanging coil is located between the first shelf and the second shelf; a first rigid support strap configured to connect the first shelf to the second shelf; and insulation material located inside the air passage and adjacent to the outer casing at least between the first shelf and the second opening, the insulation material being further located between the first rigid support strap and the outer casing, wherein the insulation material is unperforated between the coil shelf and the second opening. In some embodiments, the third supporting member will be formed of steel or aluminum.
- In some embodiments, the insulation material will be a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound.
- In some embodiments, the second shelf will not be affixed to the outer casing.
- In some embodiments, the insulation material will be located only between the first shelf and the second opening.
- In some embodiments, the first rigid support strap will be bent at an angle, the first rigid support strap will be affixed to a first side of the first shelf and a second side of the first shelf, the first and second sides of the first shelf being adjacent to each other, and the first rigid support strap will be affixed to a first side of the second shelf and a second side of the second shelf, the first and second sides of the second shelf being adjacent to each other.
- The air handling unit may further include a second rigid support strap configured to connect the first shelf to the second shelf.
- In some embodiments, the first rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a first side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a first side of the second shelf, the second rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a second side of the first shelf, and will be affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a second side of the second shelf, the first side of the first shelf will be formed opposite to the second side of the first shelf, and the first side of the second shelf will be formed opposite to the second side of the second shelf.
- In some embodiments, the first rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a first side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a first side of the second shelf, the second rigid support strap will be affixed to the first shelf, proximate to a second side of the first shelf, and is affixed to the second shelf, proximate to a second side of the second shelf, the first side of the first shelf will be formed adjacent to the second side of the first shelf, and the first side of the second shelf will be formed adjacent to the second side of the second shelf.
- In some embodiments, the second rigid support strap will be bent at an angle, the second rigid support strap will be affixed to a third side of the first shelf and a fourth side of the first shelf, the third and fourth sides of the first shelf being adjacent to each other, and the second rigid support strap will be affixed to a third side of the second shelf and a fourth side of the second shelf, the third and fourth sides of the second shelf being adjacent to each other.
- The air handling unit may further include a cross-brace connected between the first rigid support strap and the second rigid support strap.
- The accompanying figures where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate an exemplary embodiment and to explain various principles and advantages in accordance with the present invention.
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B show a perspective view of an air handling unit according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 5 is another cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an air handling unit having four connection elements, showing how the connection elements are attached to the coil shelf and the control shelf according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 13 , showing the connection elements attached to the coil shelf and the control shelf according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit in a sideways position according to another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to an disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit according to still another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having cross-braces according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional front view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit according to yet another disclosed embodiment; -
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having a circular control shelf according to another disclosed embodiment; and -
FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional top view of an air handling unit having a control shelf with rounded edges according to a disclosed embodiment. - The instant disclosure is provided to further explain in an enabling fashion the best modes of performing one or more embodiments of the present invention. The disclosure is further offered to enhance an understanding and appreciation for the inventive principles and advantages thereof, rather than to limit in any manner the invention. The invention is defined solely by the appended claims including any amendments made during the pendency of this application and all equivalents of those claims as issued.
- It is further understood that the use of relational terms such as first and second, and the like, if any, are used solely to distinguish one from another entity, item, or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities, items or actions. Likewise, the use of positional terms such as front, back, side, top, bottom, over, and under are used solely to provide a reference point for one particular orientation, and to enhance the clarity of the disclosure. Their use does not imply that such an orientation is required. In operation, the disclosed air handling units can be used in any desired orientation.
- Air Handling Unit Using Hanging Connection Elements
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of anair handling unit 100 according to a disclosed embodiment.FIG. 1A illustrates theair handling unit 100 with an access panel 10 attached to a front face, whileFIG. 1B illustrates theair handling unit 100 with the access panel 10 removed. As shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B , theair handling unit 100 includes areturn air section 1, acooling section 2 formed over thereturn air section 1, and anoutlet air section 3 formed over thecooling section 2. An outer casing 5 (or housing) encloses thereturn air section 1, thecooling section 2, and theoutlet air section 3, which together form an air passage. Theouter casing 5 includes an access panel 10, which can be removed to provide access to the elements within the air passageway. - The
return air section 1 includes afirst brace 25 and anair blower 40; thecooling section 2 includes a coil shelf 21 (a first supporting member) and a heat-exchangingcoil 50; and theoutlet air section 3 includes a control shelf 22 (a second supporting member) and anelectronic control element 60. A plurality of connection elements 30 (third through Nth supporting members) hang from the edge of theouter casing 5 at an air outlet opening 12 (a second opening) in theouter casing 5, and are secured to thecoil shelf 21 and thecontrol shelf 22. - The
first brace 25 is located at the air return side of the air handling unit 100 (the bottom inFIG. 1B ), and is connected to theouter casing 5. It defines a return opening 11 (a first opening) in theouter casing 5, and also serves to provide structure to theouter casing 5. - The
air blower 40 is supported by thecoil shelf 21, and operates to draw air into thereturn air section 1 from thereturn opening 11, and blow it through thecooling section 2, into theoutlet air section 3 and finally out of theair handling unit 100. - The
coil shelf 21 is secured to theouter casing 5 and the supportingmembers 30, and serves to both provide structure to theouter casing 5 and provide support for the heat-exchangingcoil 50 and thecontrol shelf 22. Thecoil shelf 21 contains an opening (not shown) to allow air to flow from thereturn air section 1 to thecooling section 2 - The heat-exchanging
coil 50 is secured to thecoil shelf 21 and operates to cool air that passes through thecooling section 2 from thereturn air section 1 to theoutlet air section 3. As noted above, air is blown by theair blower 40 from thereturn air section 1 into thecooling section 2. This air passes through the heat-exchangingcoil 50, and in doing so is reduced in temperature. The airflow caused by the operation of theair blower 40 then moves this cool air from thecoil section 2 into theoutlet air section 3. - The
control shelf 22 is connected to theconnection elements 30, but is not directly connected to theouter casing 5. It is suspended between thecoil shelf 21 and theoutlet air opening 12 by theconnection elements 30. Thecontrol shelf 22 operates to provide structure to theouter casing 5, and may also serve to support theelectronic control element 60. Thecontrol shelf 21 contains an opening (not shown) that allows air to pass from thecooling section 2 into theoutlet air section 3. - The
electronic control element 60 controls the operation of theair handling unit 100. It can be attached to just thecontrol shelf 21, to just theouter casing 5, or to both thecontrol shelf 21 and theouter casing 5. Theelectronic control element 60 can also contain some insulation located between its electronic circuits and the portion of the air passageway in theoutlet air section 3. - The
outer casing 5 surrounds all of the other elements of theair handling unit 100, and operates to define the air passageway from thereturn air opening 11 to theair outlet opening 12. It also serves to support thecoil shelf 21 and theconnection elements 30. - In addition, a layer of insulation (not shown) is provided between the air passage and the
outer casing 5, at least in the portion of the air passage between thecoil shelf 21 and theair outlet opening 12. Insulation is only required in the air passage between thecoil shelf 21 and theair outlet opening 12, since only this portion of the air passage will contain cool air. In this embodiment, theair blower 40 is upstream from the heat-exchangingcoil 50 in the air passage. As a result, thereturn air section 1 will contain non-cooled air received through thereturn opening 11, which non-cooled air should be approximately the same temperature as the air outside of theair handling unit 100. - The
connection elements 30 in this embodiment hang from the edge of theouter casing 5 at the air outlet opening 12 in theouter casing 5, and extend down to thecoil shelf 21 along a side of theouter casing 5. They are secured to thecoil shelf 21 and thecontrol shelf 22 inside theouter casing 5. In some embodiments, theconnection elements 30 may be secured to theouter casing 5 where they meet the edge of thecoil shelf 21, though in other embodiments they can simply hang from theouter casing 105. - In other embodiments, the
connection elements 30 need only be connected to thecontrol shelf 22, and not to thecoil shelf 21 or theouter casing 5. In this case, thecontrol shelf 22 will be secured in place entirely by theconnection elements 30. - Because the
connection elements 30 hang from the edge of theouter casing 5, and support thecontrol shelf 22, it is not necessary to pierce theouter casing 5, or any insulation applied to the interior of theouter casing 5 between thecoil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 (i.e., the area of the air passage that contains cool air that is insulated). Since the insulation is never pierced, there is no area between thecoil shelf 21 and the air outlet opening 12 in which the insulation is less effective. Similarly, since no connection elements stick out into the air passage, there are also no locations within this portion of the air passage in which there is a greater propensity for condensate to form. - This embodiment is only effective when the
air handling unit 100 is installed upright, however, since theconnection elements 30 hang from the edge of theouter casing 5. - Air Handling Unit Using Internally-Connected Connection Elements
-
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of anair handling unit 200 according to another disclosed embodiment. In this embodiment, theair handling unit 200 can be arranged in any orientation, not just upright. It can be turned upside down or laid on its side, and it will still function properly. In particular,FIG. 2 is the cross section along the line II-II′ inFIGS. 6-12 . - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theair handling unit 200 has areturn air section 101, acooling section 102 formed adjacent to thereturn air section 101, and anoutlet air section 103 formed adjacent to thecooling section 102, all enclosed by an outer casing 105 (or housing). Theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, a return air opening 111 (a first opening), an outlet air opening 112 (a second opening),casing insulation 118, a coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), a control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), afirst brace 125, asecond brace 126, athird brace 127, a plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through Nth supporting members), anair blower 140, a heat-exchangingcoil 150, and avertical drain pan 155. - The
outer casing 105 encloses thereturn air section 101, thecooling section 102, and theoutlet air section 103 to define an air passageway for the passage of air from the air return opening 111 to theoutlet air opening 112. Theouter casing 105 contains an access opening (not shown inFIG. 2 ) to provide the user with access to its internal components. - The
outer casing 105 is connected to and provides support to thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, and thecoil shelf 121. In the disclosed embodiment, theouter casing 105 is made of metal, such as steel. However, in alternate embodiments, theouter casing 105 could also be made of aluminum, plastic, or any other suitable material. - The
return air opening 111 is formed in theouter casing 105 at an end of thereturn air section 101 opposite thecooling section 102. It provides a place for non-cooled air to be brought into the air passageway to be cooled. - The
air outlet opening 112 is formed in theouter casing 105 at an end of theair outlet section 103 opposite thecooling section 102. It provides a location for cooled air to be output from the air passageway. - The
casing insulation 118 is formed next to theouter casing 105 between thecoil shelf 121 and theoutlet air opening 112. It operates to insulate the air passageway between thecoil shelf 121 and the outlet air opening 112 from the area outside theouter casing 105. Nothing pierces or perforates thecasing insulation 118 between thecoil shelf 121 and theoutlet air opening 112. - In the disclosed embodiment, the
casing insulation 118 is a flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound, such as Polytech® Low-FS Closed Cell Foam or Aerocell® EPDM Elastomeric Sheet Insulation. However, in alternate embodiments different insulating materials, such as fiberglass, mineral wood, polyester, melamine, phenolic, polyethylene, or cotton, could be used. - The
coil shelf 121 is formed where thereturn air section 101 and thecooling section 102 meet. It abuts the walls of theouter casing 105, and has acoil shelf opening 113 in its middle, to allow air to pass from thereturn air section 101 to thecooling section 102. - The
coil shelf 121 is attached to both theouter casing 105 and two each of the plurality offlat connection elements 130 by one or moreaffixing elements 180, such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching theflat connection elements 130 to thecoil shelf 121. In this way, the coil shelf 121 (and the outer casing 105) support the plurality offlat connection elements 130. - The
control shelf 122 is formed where thecooling section 102 and theair outlet section 103 meet. It is attached to each of the plurality offlat connection elements 130 by one or moreaffixing elements 180, such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching theflat connection elements 130 to thecoil shelf 121. Thecontrol shelf 122 has acontrol shelf opening 114 in its middle, to allow air to pass from thecooling section 102 to theoutlet air section 103. - The
control shelf 122 is formed such that thecasing insulation 118 is located between thecontrol shelf 122 and theouter casing 105. Thecontrol shelf 122 is not directly connected to theouter casing 105. - The
first brace 125 and thesecond brace 126 are formed proximate to thereturn air opening 111, and serve to support thereturn air opening 111 and the portion of theouter casing 105 next to thereturn air opening 111. - The
third brace 127 is formed proximate to theoutlet air opening 112 and serves to support theoutput air opening 112 and the portion of theouter casing 105 next to theoutput air opening 112. - Although three
braces - The plurality of
flat connection elements 130 extend between thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122, and are connected to both thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 byconnection elements 180, such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching theflat connection elements 130 to thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122. In the embodiment disclosed inFIG. 2 , the plurality offlat connection elements 130 are each connected to the top surface of thecoil shelf 121, and are connected to a side surface of thecontrol shelf 122. However, this is by way of example only. In alternate embodiments, the plurality offlat connection elements 130 could be connected to different portions of thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122. Furthermore, in some alternate embodiments the portion of theflat connection elements 130 proximate to thecoil shelf 121 could be further connected to theouter casing 105. - The portion of the
flat connection elements 130 proximate to thecontrol shelf 122 are not directly connected to theouter casing 105. In addition, thecasing insulation 118 is formed between theflat connection elements 130 and theouter casing 105 from thecoil shelf 121 to thecontrol shelf 122. - The
air blower 140 operates to draw air into thereturn air section 101 from thereturn opening 111, and blow it into thecooling section 102, then into theoutlet air section 103, and finally out of theair handling unit 200 through theoutlet opening 112. - The heat-exchanging
coil 150 is secured to thecoil shelf 121 and operates to cool air that passes through thecooling section 102 from thereturn air section 101 to theoutlet air section 103. Air is blown by theair blower 140 from thereturn air section 101 into thecooling section 102. This air passes through the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and in doing so is reduced in temperature. The airflow caused by the operation of theair blower 140 then moves this cool air from the coil section two into theoutlet air section 103. - The
vertical drain pan 155 is placed below the heat-exchangingcoil 150 and operates to collect condensation that forms on and around the heat-exchangingcoil 150. Thevertical drain pan 155 has at least one outlet to remove the condensation from thevertical drain pan 155. Thevertical drain pan 155 has a verticaldrain pan opening 115 in its middle, to allow air to pass from thereturn air section 101 to thecooling section 102. In alternate embodiments in which theair handling unit 200 is placed on its side, an additional vertical drain pan (not shown) should be placed beneath the heat-exchangingcoil 150. Because it would not be placed within the center of the air passage, such a vertical drain pan would not need an opening in its middle. -
FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional front view of theair handling unit 200 ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 3 is the cross section along the line III-III′ inFIGS. 6-12 . - As shown in
FIG. 3 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), thecasing insulation 118, the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and thevertical drain pan 155. - The
outer casing 105, theair return opening 111, theoutlet air opening 112, thecasing insulation 118, thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and thevertical drain pan 155 all operate as described above with respect toFIG. 2 . Their description will not be repeated here. - The plurality of
bent connection elements 135 extend between thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122, and are connected to both thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 byconnection elements 180, such as screws, bolts, or any suitable mechanism for securely attaching thebent connection elements 135 to thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122. In the embodiment disclosed inFIG. 3 , the plurality ofbent connection elements 135 are each connected to the top surface of thecoil shelf 121, and are connected to a side surface of thecontrol shelf 122. However, this is by way of example only. In alternate embodiments, the plurality ofbent connection elements 135 could be connected to different portions of thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122. Furthermore, in some alternate embodiments the portion of thebent connection elements 135 proximate to thecoil shelf 121 could be further connected to theouter casing 105. - The portions of the
bent connection elements 135 proximate to thecontrol shelf 122 are not directly connected to theouter casing 105. In addition, thecasing insulation 118 is formed between thebent connection elements 135 and theouter casing 105 from thecoil shelf 121 to thecontrol shelf 122. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of theair handling unit 200 ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 4 is the cross section along the line IV-IV′ inFIGS. 6-12 . - As shown in
FIG. 4 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, anaccess panel 110, the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), thecasing insulation 118,access panel insulation 119, the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through Nth supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and anelectronic control element 160. - The
outer casing 105, theair return opening 111, theoutlet air opening 112, thecasing insulation 118, thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the flat andbent connection elements air blower 140, and the heat-exchangingcoil 150 all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2 and 3 . Their description will not be repeated here. - The
access panel 110 is configured to cover an access opening formed on a front of theouter casing 105, and to seal off of the air passageway, except for thereturn air opening 111 and theoutlet air opening 112. The access opening is provided so that an operator can access the elements of theair handling unit 200 in the air passageway. In this disclosed embodiment, the access panel is made of the same material as theouter casing 105. However, in alternate embodiments, a different material can be used. - The
access panel insulation 119 is formed next to theaccess panel 110 such that, together with thecasing insulation 118, it will insulate the air passageway between thefirst shelf 121 and theair outlet opening 112 when theaccess panel 110 is attached to thehousing 105. Nothing pierces or perforates theaccess panel insulation 119 where it is formed. - The
electronic control element 160 serves to control the operation of theair blower 140 and the heat-exchangingcoil 150. In the disclosed embodiment, theelectronic control element 160 is insulated such that it insulates the air passageway from the remainder of theelectronic control element 160. As a result, theaccess panel insulation 119 only needs to extend between thecoil shelf 121 and theelectronic control element 160. The insulation in theelectronic control element 160 serves to insulate the portion of the air passageway adjacent to it. In alternate embodiments, however, theelectronic control element 160 might not be insulated, in which case theaccess panel insulation 119 should extend from thecoil shelf 121 all the way to theoutput air opening 112 - In the disclosed embodiment, the
electronic control element 160 is affixed to thecontrol shelf 122, but not theouter casing 105. However, in alternate embodiments, theelectronic control element 160 could be a fixed to theouter casing 105, or both thecontrol shelf 122 and theouter casing 105. Because theelectronic control element 160 is insulated, there is no need to have thecasing insulation 118 formed adjacent to it. As result, affixing theelectronic control element 160 to theouter casing 105 would not pierce thecasing insulation 118. -
FIG. 5 is another cross-sectional side view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 5 is the cross section along the line V-V′ inFIGS. 6-12 . - As shown in
FIG. 5 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), thecasing insulation 118, theaccess panel insulation 119, the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, thevertical drain pan 155, and theelectronic control element 160. - The
outer casing 105, theaccess panel 110, theair return opening 111, theoutlet air opening 112, thecasing insulation 118, theaccess panel insulation 119, thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the second supportingmembers 135, theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, thevertical drain pan 155, and theelectronic control element 160 all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-4 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 5 shows that the second supportingmembers 135 extend along the back of the air handling unit 200 (and thus the back of thecoil shelf 121 and the back of the control shelf 122). By extending along both the side and the back of both thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122, the second supportingmembers 135 provide greater stability to the entire structure. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 6 is the cross section along the line VI-VI′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 6 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, the return air opening 111 (a first opening), thesecond brace 126. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 6 shows that thesecond brace 126 helps to form thereturn air opening 111 at one end of theair handling unit 200. Since the air drawn in through thereturn air opening 111 is non-cooled air, there is no need for any insulation adjacent to theouter casing 105 or theaccess panel 110. As result, thesecond brace 126 can be affixed to theouter casing 105 by a plurality of affixingelements 180. -
FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 7 is the cross section along the line VII-VII′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 7 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, and theair blower 140. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 7 shows that in thereturn air section 101, in which theair blower 140 is placed, there is no need for any insulation adjacent to either theouter casing 105 or theaccess panel 110. This is because the air passing through thereturn air section 101 is non-cooled air. -
FIG. 8 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 8 is the cross section along the line VIII-VIII′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 8 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, and the coil shelf. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 8 shows that there is no insulation needed adjacent to thecoil shelf 121. This is because air passing through thecoil shelf opening 113 is still non-cooled air, which does not need to be insulated from air outside of theouter casing 105. As a result, thecoil shelf 121 can be affixed to theouter casing 105 using the plurality of affixingelements 180, without piercing or puncturing any insulation, 118, 119. -
FIG. 9 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 9 is the cross section along the line IX-IX′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 9 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through Nth supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), and thevertical drain pan 155. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 9 shows that in addition to extending from thecoil shelf 121 to thecontrol shelf 122, the flat andbent connection elements coil shelf 121. This allows them to be securely affixed to thecoil shelf 121 by affixingelements 180, while leaving some room for thecasing insulation 118 to be placed in between the remainder of the flat andbent connection elements outer casing 105. - Since, the air passing through the vertical
drain pan opening 115 is still non-cooled air, there is no need for eithercasing insulation 118 oraccess panel insulation 119. However, in this embodiment, theaccess panel insulation 119 extends such that it is adjacent to thevertical drain pan 155 in order to provide better coverage of the insulation along the inside of theouter casing 105. -
FIG. 10 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 10 is the cross section along the line X-X′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 10 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, thecasing insulation 118, theaccess panel insulation 119, the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through Nth supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), and the heat-exchangingcoil 150. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 10 shows that the portion of thecooling section 102 above thecoil shelf 121, and above the portions of the flat andbent connection elements coil shelf 121, must be insulated. This is because in this portion of the air passageway, the heat-exchangingcoil 150 is cooling the air received from thereturn air section 101. As a result the air in this portion of the air passageway will be cooler than the air outside of theouter casing 105. - In addition,
FIG. 10 illustrates how thebent connection elements 135 are bent such that they run parallel to both the side and the back of theouter casing 105. -
FIG. 11 is still another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 11 is the cross-section along the line XI-XI′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 11 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, thecasing insulation 118, theaccess panel insulation 119, the plurality of flat connection elements 130 (third through Nth supporting members), the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), and thecontrol shelf 122. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 11 shows that the flat andbent connection elements casing insulation 118 is located between the flat andbent connection elements outer housing 105. In addition,FIG. 11 shows that thecontrol shelf 122 is further connected to the flat andbent connection elements casing insulation 118. As a result, there is no need to pierce either thecasing insulation 118 or theouter housing 105 in order to support thecontrol shelf 122. This allows thecasing insulation 118 to function properly along its entire extent, and provides no places where condensation is more likely to form inside the air passageway. -
FIG. 12 is yet another cross-sectional top view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 2 according to a disclosed embodiment. In particular,FIG. 12 is the cross section along the line XII-XII′ inFIGS. 2-5 . - As shown in
FIG. 12 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, theaccess panel 110, thecasing insulation 118, and theelectronic control element 160. These elements all operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. - In this embodiment, the
electronic control element 160 is insulated such that, together with thecasing insulation 118, it insulates theoutlet air section 103 of the air passageway. In alternate embodiments, however, theelectronic control element 160 need not be insulated. In such embodiments, thecasing insulation 118 and theaccess panel insulation 119 should be extended such that they surround theelectronic control element 160, in order to adequately insulate theoutlet air section 103 of the air passageway. -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an air handling unit having fourconnection elements connection elements coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 according to a disclosed embodiment; andFIG. 14 is a perspective view of the air handling unit ofFIG. 13 , showing theconnection elements coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 according to a disclosed embodiment. - As shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14 , theflat connection elements 130 have bent portions at the bottom that are connected to a top surface of thecoil shelf 121, while theflat connection elements 130 are connected at the top to a side surface of thecontrol shelf 122. Similarly, thebent connection elements 135 have bent portions at the bottom that are connected to a top surface of thecoil shelf 121, while the bent connection elements are connected at the top to both side surfaces and back surfaces of thecontrol shelf 122. These connections are made with affixingelements 180, which may be screws, bolts or any appropriate mechanism for affixing the flat andbent connection elements coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122. - In addition,
FIGS. 13 and 14 also show that thecontrol shelf 122 includes a plurality of access holes 190. These access holes 190 allow control lines to extend from theelectronic control element 160 to theair blower 140 and the heat-exchangingcoil 150 below. -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional front view of an air handling unit in a sideways position according to another disclosed embodiment.FIG. 15 is similar toFIG. 3 , except thatFIG. 3 shows theair handling unit 200 positioned upright, whileFIG. 15 shows theair handling unit 200 positioned on its side. - As shown in
FIG. 15 , theair handling unit 200 includes: theouter casing 105, the air return opening 111 (a first opening), the outlet air opening 112 (a second opening), thecasing insulation 118, the coil shelf 121 (a first supporting member), the control shelf 122 (a second supporting member), thefirst brace 125, thesecond brace 126, thethird brace 127, the plurality of bent connection elements 135 (third through Nth supporting members), theair blower 140, the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and ahorizontal drain pan 156. All of these items, except for thehorizontal drain pan 156, operate as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5 . Their description will not be repeated here. - The
horizontal drain pan 156 is placed under the heat-exchangingcoil 150, and operates to collect condensation that forms on and around the heat-exchangingcoil 150. Thehorizontal drain pan 156 has at least one outlet to remove the condensation from thehorizontal drain pan 156. Unlike thevertical drain pan 155, which has a verticaldrain pan opening 115 in its middle, to allow air to pass from thereturn air section 101 to thecooling section 102, thehorizontal drain pan 156 requires no such opening in its middle. Air passes above thehorizontal drain pan 156 as it passes through the air passageway. -
FIG. 15 illustrates how the framework of thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, and theconnection elements air handling unit 200 is positioned on its side. Because the heat-exchangingcoil 150 is heavy, and is affixed to thecoil shelf 121, the entire framework of thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, and theconnection elements outer casing 105. Since thecontrol shelf 122 is not affixed to the other side (now top) of theouter casing 105, the framework of thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, and theconnection elements control shelf 122 would tend to dip toward theouter casing 105 in the area closest to thecontrol shelf 122, absent some additional support. Such motion of this framework would cause stress on thecoil shelf 121 andouter casing 105 where the two are affixed by affixingelements 180. - However, the flexible, closed-cell elastomeric compound used as the
casing insulation 118 in the disclosed embodiment is firm enough that when the weight of thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, theconnection elements coil 150 are spread out along where theconnection elements casing insulation 118, thecasing insulation 118 will provide support to the framework of thecoil shelf 121, thecontrol shelf 122, and theconnection elements outer casing 105, thecoil shelf 121, or the affixingelements 180 that affix the two together. - Placement of the Connection Elements
-
FIGS. 2-15 show one possible arrangement ofconnection elements FIGS. 16-23 , which roughly correspond toFIG. 10 in the previously disclosed embodiment. In particular, each ofFIGS. 16-23 corresponds to a cross-section along the place designated by the line X-X′ inFIGS. 2-5 in an alternate embodiment. - As shown in
FIGS. 16-23 , each of these embodiments includes anouter casing 105, anaccess panel 110,casing insulation 118,access insulation 119, and a heat-exchangingcoil 150. These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment ofFIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 1600 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 16 , in this embodiment, fourflat connection elements 130 are provided, two each on opposite sides of theair handling unit 1600. -
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 1700 according to another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 17 , in this embodiment sixflat connection elements 130 are provided, two each on opposite sides of theair handling unit 1700, and two along the back of theair handling unit 1700. -
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 1800 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 18 , in this embodiment fourbent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each corner of theair handling unit 1800. -
FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 1900 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 19 , twoflat connection elements 130 are provided, two at the front of theair handling unit 1900, and two at the back of theair handling unit 1900. - Although many embodiments may avoid using
connection elements access panel 110, there is no structural reason why they can't be placed there. All that would be necessary to accommodate this placement would be to arrange the elements inside theouter casing 105 such that they could be properly serviced despite the presence of theconnection elements -
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 2000 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 20 , twoflat connection elements 130 are provided, one at the front of theair handling unit 2000, and twobent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each back corner of theair handling unit 2000. -
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 2100 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 21 threeflat connection elements 130 are provided, two on either side of theair handling unit 2100, and one at the back of theair handling unit 2100, and onebent connection element 135 is provided at one of the back corners of theair handling unit 2100.FIG. 21 shows that there is no need for theconnection elements coil 150 and thecontrol shelf 122. -
FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 2200 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 22 , twobent connection elements 135 are provided, one at each of the front corners of theair handling unit 2200, and twoflat connection elements 130 are provided, both at the back of theair handling unit 2200. In addition,FIG. 22 shows that it is possible for at least some part of theconnection elements casing insulation 118 and theouter casing 105. -
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 2300 according to still another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 23 , fourflat connection elements 130 are provided, two at one side of theair handling unit air handling unit 2300. - In addition, numerous other embodiments are possible using various combinations of flat and
bent connection elements outer housing 105. - Cross-Braces
- In addition to
connection elements cross-braces 195 to further support theconnection elements coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122.FIGS. 24-26 disclose an embodiment in which cross-braces 195 are provided. - As shown in
FIGS. 24-26 , this embodiment includes anouter casing 105, anaccess panel 110,casing insulation 118,access insulation 119, first, second, andthird braces coil shelf 121, acontrol shelf 122, a heat-exchangingcoil 150, and anelectronic control element 160. These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment ofFIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 24-26 , fourflat connection elements 130 are provided, two at one side of theair handling unit 2300 and two at the back of theair handling unit 2300. In addition a pair ofcross-braces 195 are provided connecting the pair ofconnection elements 130 on each side of theouter casing 105. -
FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 2400 havingcross-braces 195 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XIV-XIV′ inFIGS. 25 and 26 .FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional front view of theair handling unit 2400 ofFIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XV-XV′ inFIG. 24 .FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of theair handling unit 2400 ofFIG. 24 according to a disclosed embodiment. This cross-sectional view is along the line XVI-XVI′ inFIG. 24 . - Although in
FIGS. 24-26 , the cross-braces 195 are shown as being connected to the top and bottom of theflat connection elements 130, in alternate embodiments they could be connected at different points along the flat connection elements. Furthermore, cross-braces could be used withbent connection elements 135, or in combination with both aflat connection element 130 and abent connection element 135. - By employing
cross-braces 195, this embodiment strengthens the support provided byconnection elements fewer connection elements connection elements coil 150 and thecoil shelf 122. - Alternate Embodiments for the Connection Elements
- Although the above disclosed embodiments show the use of
connection elements control shelf 122, and are bent at the bottom to connect to a top surface of thecoil shelf 121, this is by way of example only. Theconnection elements coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 in different ways. In such embodiments, thecoil shelf 121, and thecontrol shelf 122 would be modified, as necessary, to provide the proper holes for attachingaffixing elements 180. Furthermore, while the above embodiments place theinsulation connection elements outer casing 105, this also is not required.FIGS. 27-29 illustrate just a few alternate embodiments of theconnection elements -
FIG. 27 corresponds generally to a side cross-sectional view along line V-V′ inFIGS. 6-12 , although in an alternate embodiment.FIGS. 28 and 29 correspond generally to a front cross-sectional view along the line II-II′ inFIGS. 6-12 , although in alternate embodiments. As shown inFIGS. 27-29 , these embodiments each include anouter casing 105, anaccess panel 110,casing insulation 118,access insulation 119, first, second, andthird braces coil 150, adrain pan 155, and anelectronic control element 160. These elements are described above with respect to the embodiment ofFIGS. 2-12 . Their description will not be repeated here. -
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of anair handling unit 2700 according to another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 27 , abent connection element 2735 is bent at the bottom such that it can be affixed to a top surface of thecoil shelf 2721, and is bent at the top such that it can be affixed to a bottom surface of thecontrol shelf 2722. Furthermore, the bottom bend is pointed inward in this embodiment, rather than outward. -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional front view of anair handling unit 2800 according to another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 28 ,flat connection elements 2830 are not bent at the bottom, but rather are configured to fit through a slot in thecoil shelf 2821, where they are secured to thecoil shelf 2821. In addition, theflat connection elements 2830 are bent inward at the top such that they can be affixed to a top surface of thecontrol shelf 2822. -
FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front view of anair handling unit 2900 according to yet another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 29 ,flat connection elements 2930 are bent inward at the bottom to connect to a top surface of thecoil shelf 2921, and are bent inward at the top to connect to a top surface of thecontrol shelf 2922. Furthermore, theflat connection elements 2930 are placed such that they extend between thecasing insulation 118 and theouter housing 105. - Numerous other configurations can be made by mixing the various modifications described above with respect to
FIGS. 27-29 . Furthermore, althoughFIG. 27 illustrates an alternate embodiment for abent connection element 2735, andFIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate alternate embodiments forflat connection elements connection elements - The Coil and Control Shelves
- Although in the embodiments above, the
coil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 are disclosed as being rectangular in shape, this is not a requirement. In alternate embodiments, theseshelves -
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 3000 having acircular control shelf 3022 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 30 , thecircular control shelf 3022 can be attached toflat connection elements 130 along its perimeter. If thecoil shelf 121 is rectangular, thecircular shelf 3022 can be attached toflat connection elements 130 where thecircular shelf 3022 is tangential to the walls of theouter casing 105, so that theflat connection elements 130 can be placed where they can be easily attached to thecoil shelf 121. - Although in this embodiment, the control shelf 3022 (or a modified coil shelf 121) actually only has one side (i.e., the circumferential side of the circular shelf), references to the front, sides, and back sides of the
shelf 3022 can nevertheless be made based on the general position of theshelf 3022. For example, the circumference of thecontrol shelf 3022 inFIG. 30 can be broken up into four arcs, one representing a front surface of thecircular control shelf 3022, two representing side surfaces of thecircular control shelf 3022, and one representing a back surface of thecircular control shelf 3022. -
FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional top view of anair handling unit 3100 having acontrol shelf 122 with rounded edges according to another disclosed embodiment. As shown inFIG. 31 , thecontrol shelf 122 is roughly rectangular, but with rounded edges. It can still be attached to theflat connection elements 130 along its periphery. Furthermore, it still retains a front surface, two side surfaces, and a back surface, despite the fact that its corners are rounded. - Although
FIGS. 30 and 31 describe alternate shapes of thecontrol shelf 122, the same is true for thecoil shelf 121. In different embodiments, thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 can have the same shape or different shapes, provided they can be properly connected by connection elements (in whatever form those connection elements take). In alternate embodiments, thecoil shelf 121 and thecontrol shelf 122 can have shapes that include polygonal shapes, circular or oval shapes, polygonal shapes with rounded edges, or even irregular shapes. - This disclosure is intended to explain how to fashion and use various embodiments in accordance with the invention rather than to limit the true, intended, and fair scope and spirit thereof. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment(s) was chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims, as may be amended during the pendency of this application for patent, and all equivalents thereof, when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled. The various circuits described above can be implemented in discrete circuits or integrated circuits, as desired by implementation.
Claims (21)
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US14/528,090 US9335103B1 (en) | 2014-10-30 | 2014-10-30 | Air handling unit with internal support system |
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US14/528,090 US9335103B1 (en) | 2014-10-30 | 2014-10-30 | Air handling unit with internal support system |
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US20160123682A1 true US20160123682A1 (en) | 2016-05-05 |
US9335103B1 US9335103B1 (en) | 2016-05-10 |
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US20210095887A1 (en) * | 2019-09-26 | 2021-04-01 | Trane International Inc. | Cover Panels for Climate Control System Housings and Methods Related Thereto |
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US20190234649A1 (en) * | 2018-01-29 | 2019-08-01 | Brian Gregory Phillips | Tubular-shaped and modular air handling unit (ahu) for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (hvac) systems |
US20210095887A1 (en) * | 2019-09-26 | 2021-04-01 | Trane International Inc. | Cover Panels for Climate Control System Housings and Methods Related Thereto |
US11525602B2 (en) * | 2019-09-26 | 2022-12-13 | Trane International Inc. | Cover panels for climate control system housings and methods related thereto |
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US20220316755A1 (en) * | 2021-03-30 | 2022-10-06 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Condensate pan for a heat exchanger |
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