U.S. patent application number 16/143782 was filed with the patent office on 2019-04-04 for ventilation system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Broan-NuTone LLC. Invention is credited to Daniel L. Karst, Robert G. Penlesky, Mirko Zakula.
Application Number | 20190101125 16/143782 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50184139 |
Filed Date | 2019-04-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190101125 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zakula; Mirko ; et
al. |
April 4, 2019 |
VENTILATION SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation exhaust fan
comprising a main housing adapted to interchangeably receive a
upgrade cartridge assembly. The main housing can include a fluid
inlet through which fluid is received within the main housing, and
a fluid outlet through which fluid exits the main housing. The
ventilation exhaust fan can be installed in a structure in place of
an existing ventilation exhaust fan assembly. The main housing can
provide support to a scroll and a blower wheel positioned within
the scroll. A motor may be nestled within the scroll and coupled to
the blower wheel. A capacitor including a motor harness and plug
can be electrically coupled with the motor. Electrical power can be
supplied to the capacitor and motor to cause the motor to rotate
the blower wheel to generate a flow of fluid out of the fluid
outlet.
Inventors: |
Zakula; Mirko; (Hartford,
WI) ; Penlesky; Robert G.; (Hartford, WI) ;
Karst; Daniel L.; (Hartford, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Broan-NuTone LLC |
Hartford |
WI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50184139 |
Appl. No.: |
16/143782 |
Filed: |
September 27, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13597174 |
Aug 28, 2012 |
10113550 |
|
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16143782 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F04D 17/16 20130101;
F04D 25/14 20130101; F04D 29/626 20130101; F24F 2007/001 20130101;
F24F 7/06 20130101; F04D 25/0606 20130101; Y10T 29/49826
20150115 |
International
Class: |
F04D 25/06 20060101
F04D025/06 |
Claims
1. An upgrade cartridge for a ventilation apparatus, the upgrade
cartridge comprising: a blower wheel capable of generating a fluid
flow; a scroll, the scroll comprising an outermost peripheral wall
defining a height of the scroll; an intake wall extending inward
from the peripheral wall over the top of the blower wheel to an
intake periphery defining an intake aperture through which air
enters the scroll; a blower outlet defined in the scroll, the
blower outlet defining a height, wherein the height of the scroll
is greater than the height of the blower outlet and the scroll
height transitions smoothly therebetween.
2. The upgrade cartridge of claim 1, the blower wheel defining a
rotational axis and the height of the scroll and the height of the
discharge outlet measured parallel to the rotational axis.
3. The upgrade cartridge of claim 1, wherein the blower outlet is
partially defined by a straight scroll sidewall and a rounded top
wall defining an apex of the blower outlet.
4. The upgrade cartridge of claim 3 the scroll height is measured
between a bottom of the scroll and the apex of the blower
outlet.
5. The upgrade cartridge of claim 4 the blower outlet height is
measured between a bottom of the scroll and the intake wall.
6. The upgrade cartridge of claim 1 further comprising a motor
plate adjacent to a bottom of the scroll.
7.-16. (canceled)
17. A ventilation apparatus comprising: a housing; a blower wheel
capable of generating a fluid flow; a scroll comprising: an
outermost peripheral wall defining a height of the scroll, an
intake wall extending inward from the peripheral wall over the top
of the blower wheel to an intake periphery defining an intake
aperture through which air enters the scroll; a blower outlet
defined in the scroll, the blower outlet defining a height, wherein
the height of the scroll is greater than the height of the blower
outlet and the scroll height transitions smoothly therebetween.
18. The ventilation apparatus of claim 17, the blower wheel
defining a rotational axis and the height of the scroll and the
height of the discharge outlet measured parallel to the rotational
axis.
19. The ventilation apparatus of claim 17, wherein the blower
outlet is partially defined by a straight scroll sidewall and a
rounded top wall defining an apex of the blower outlet.
20. The ventilation apparatus of claim 19, the scroll height is
measured between a bottom of the scroll and the apex of the blower
outlet.
21. The ventilation apparatus of claim 20, the blower outlet height
is measured between a bottom of the scroll and the intake wall.
22. The ventilation apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a
motor plate adjacent to a bottom of the scroll.
23. The ventilation apparatus of claim 23, further comprising a
motor secured to the motor plate.
24. A ventilation apparatus comprising: a housing; a blower wheel
capable of generating a fluid flow; a scroll comprising: an
outermost peripheral wall defining a height of the scroll, an
intake wall extending inward from the peripheral wall over the top
of the blower wheel to an intake periphery defining an intake
aperture through which air enters the scroll; a rounded blower
outlet defined in the scroll, the blower outlet defining a height,
wherein the height of the scroll is greater than the height of the
blower outlet and the scroll height transitions smoothly
therebetween.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Ventilating exhaust fans, such as those typically installed
in bathrooms, draw air from within an area and pass the exhausted
air out to another location, such as through a vent in the gable or
roof of a home or other building structure. Centrifugal exhaust
fans typically include a rotating fan wheel having a plurality of
vanes that create an outward airflow which, in turn, is directed
out of an outlet opening. The fan wheel is typically coupled to a
motor supported within the fan housing, and the motor drives the
fan wheel, thus providing ventilation to an area. In some cases, a
curved fan scroll is employed to channel air around the fan, and
can be defined by a housing wall of the fan or by a separate
element or structure within the fan housing.
[0002] Many typical exhaust fans currently in use include a housing
positioned within a building structure, such as in an aperture in a
wall or ceiling. The housing can be secured in the aperture in a
number of conventional manners, such as by being attached to wall
or ceiling joists, or by being attached to other structure in the
wall or ceiling.
[0003] In some cases, it may be desirable to replace an exhaust fan
within a building or structure. For example, an old exhaust fan may
need to be replaced when broken, or may generate unacceptable
vibration or noise during operation. As another example, it may be
desirable to replace an old exhaust fan with one that is more
powerful, or has one or more features or characteristics different
than the existing exhaust fan. However, conventional exhaust fans
can be relatively difficult and time consuming to remove and
replace. In most cases, replacement typically requires the
assistance of a qualified electrician, the disconnection and
reconnection of associated ductwork, and the removal and
re-installation of the entire exhaust fan from the building
structure.
SUMMARY
[0004] Some embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation
exhaust fan comprising an upgrade cartridge assembly having a motor
mounting plate coupled to at least one motor, at least one
capacitor electrically coupled to the motor, a motor harness
including at least one plug, and a blower wheel coupled with a
scroll, coupled with the motor to generate a flow of fluid out of a
fluid outlet.
[0005] In some embodiments, a duct connector assembly is provided.
The duct connector assembly comprises a damper flap that is coupled
with a ventilation orifice. The duct connector assembly is capable
of being moved within the ventilation orifice to substantially
control the backflow of a fluid into the ventilation orifice and
the upgrade cartridge from a ventilation duct of a building.
Furthermore, the duct connector assembly is further capable of
substantially controlling the flow of fluid from a space into the
ventilation of a duct of building when the motor is unpowered.
[0006] Some embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation
exhaust fan comprising a main housing having a fluid inlet through
which fluid is received within the main housing, and a fluid outlet
through which fluid exits the main housing, wherein the housing is
adapted to interchangeably receive an upgrade cartridge assembly
having a motor, at least one capacitor electrically coupled to the
motor, a motor harness including at least one plug, a motor
mounting plate coupled to at least one motor and a blower wheel
coupled within a scroll, coupled with the motor to generate a flow
of fluid out of the fluid outlet.
[0007] In another aspect of the invention, a method of upgrading a
ventilation exhaust fan is provided, and comprises a pre-existing
main housing receiving an upgrade cartridge assembly having a motor
mounting plate coupled to at least one motor, at least one
capacitor electrically coupled to the motor, a motor harness
including at least one plug, and a blower wheel coupled within a
scroll, coupled with the motor to generate a flow of fluid out of
the fluid outlet.
[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a method of changing a
ventilation exhaust fan is provided, and comprising a main housing
having a fluid inlet through which fluid is received within the
main housing, and a fluid outlet through which fluid exits the main
housing, wherein the housing is adapted to interchangeably receive
an upgrade cartridge assembly having a motor mounting plate coupled
to at least one motor, at least one capacitor electrically coupled
to the motor, a motor harness including at least one plug, and a
blower wheel coupled within a scroll, coupled with the motor to
generate a flow of fluid out of the fluid outlet.
[0009] In another aspect of the invention, a method of replacing a
ventilation exhaust fan is provided, and comprises a main housing
having a fluid inlet through which fluid is received within the
main housing, and a fluid outlet through which fluid exits the main
housing, wherein the housing is adapted to interchangeably receive
a upgrade cartridge assembly having a motor mounting plate coupled
to at least one motor, at least one capacitor electrically coupled
to the motor, a motor harness including at least one plug, and a
blower wheel coupled within a scroll, coupled with the motor to
generate a flow of fluid out of the fluid outlet. The ventilation
exhaust fan is installed in a building or structure in place of an
existing ventilation exhaust fan assembly.
[0010] In a further aspect of the invention, a method of assembling
a ventilation apparatus is provided. The assembly method comprises
assembling an upgrade cartridge assembly, including providing a
motor plate, a motor, and a scroll that includes at least one
locating rib, where the at least one locating rib is configured and
arranged to center and guide the upgrade cartridge into a
previously installed ventilation apparatus housing. The method also
includes providing a blower wheel and mechanically coupling the
blower wheel with the motor and the scroll, and securing the motor
to the motor plate, providing a capacitor and electrically
connecting the capacitor to the motor, and providing a motor
harness including at least one plug capable of being coupled with
at least one plug receptacle, and electrically coupling the at
least one plug to the motor and the capacitor.
[0011] In another aspect of the invention, a method for ventilating
a space is provided that includes providing the upgrade cartridge
assembly including a motor and blower assembly, installing the
upgrade cartridge assembly in a building or structure in place of
an existing ventilation exhaust fan assembly, and providing
electrical power to the upgrade cartridge assembly of a magnitude
sufficient to drive the motor to turn the blower wheel.
[0012] In one further aspect of the invention, a method for
ventilating a space is provided that includes providing a main
housing having a fluid inlet through which fluid is received within
the main housing, and a fluid outlet through which fluid exits the
main housing, wherein the housing is adapted to interchangeably
receive a fan upgrade cartridge assembly, and installing the main
housing in a building or structure. The method further includes
providing an upgrade cartridge assembly including a motor and
blower assembly, installing the upgrade cartridge assembly in the
main housing to form a ventilation exhaust fan assembly, and
providing electrical power to the upgrade cartridge assembly of a
magnitude sufficient to drive the motor to turn the blower
wheel.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 6a is a side-rear view of a upgrade cartridge assembly
scroll with grille spring holder according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0019] FIG. 6b is a side-rear close-up view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly scroll with grille spring holder according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 6b is a side-rear close-up view of a fan cartridge
scroll with grille spring holder according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a ventilation assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of a ventilation
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 10a is a side perspective view of a ventilation
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 10b is a close-up view of a side of a ventilation
assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 10c is a close-up top view of the ventilation assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a close-up view of the electrical box enclosure
of a main housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a close-up view of the electrical box cover plate
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 13a is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly
with a closed damper flap according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0030] FIG. 13b is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly
with an open damper flap according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 14a is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly
installed in a main housing viewed from within the main housing
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 14b is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly
installed in a main housing according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0033] FIG. 14c is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly
installed in a main housing according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0034] FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of a ventilation assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] Before any embodiments of the invention explained in detail,
it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its
application to the details of construction and the arrangement of
components set forth in the following description or illustrated in
the following drawings. The invention is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including,"
"comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as
well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise,
the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and
variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and
indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further,
"connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or
mechanical connections or couplings.
[0036] The following discussion is presented to enable a person
skilled in the art make and use embodiments of the invention.
Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and
applications without departing from embodiments of the invention.
Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited
to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope
consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The
following detailed description is to be read with reference to the
figures, in which like elements in different figures have like
reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to
scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit
the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will
recognize the examples provided herein have many useful
alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the
invention.
[0037] FIGS. 7 and 15 illustrate a ventilation assembly 10
according to one embodiment of the invention. Some embodiments of
the ventilation assembly 10 can include several components and
devices that can perform various functions. In some embodiments,
the ventilation assembly can include a main housing 25, which can
house the various components and devices of the ventilation
assembly 10. In some embodiments the ventilation assembly 10
generally can include a upgrade cartridge assembly 20,
substantially housed within the main housing 25, and positioned
within the main housing 25 aided by a fan cartridge locating rib
80, and coupled to the main housing with a fan cartridge snap
retention feature 85. In some embodiments the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 generally can include, a motor 30, such as a permanent
split capacitor motor 30, and a motor capacitor 35. Some
embodiments provide a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 that can also
include a scroll 40 and a blower wheel 50 positioned substantially
within the scroll 40 and mechanically coupled to the motor 30.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, a duct connector assembly 270 can
be coupled to the ventilation assembly 10. The duct connector
assembly 270 can include a moveable damper flap 280 coupled with a
ventilation orifice 272. In some embodiments the damper flap 280
can control the backflow of a fluid into a ventilation orifice 272
and the upgrade cartridge assembly 20, and further be capable of
substantially controlling the flow of fluid from a space, such as a
room, into the ventilation duct of a building, or structure, to an
outside location.
[0038] In some embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 can be used
to ventilate any room, area or space. In some embodiments, the
ventilation assembly 10 can be secured within a wall, ceiling, or
other building structure in a partially, or fully recessed
position. In some embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 can be
installed within an intermediate space, outside of the room, area
or space, and coupled with one or more ventilation duct assemblies
to provide ventilation to the room, area or space. In some other
embodiments, the fluid may comprise air, or other gases, or vapor,
such as water vapor. In some embodiments, the fluid may comprise a
smoke, ash, or other particulate in addition to air or other
gases.
[0039] In some embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 can be
installed as a new, original equipment installation in a room or
building where none had previously existed, whereas some
embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation assembly 10 that
can replace a pre-existing ventilation system. In some embodiments,
the upgrade cartridge assembly 20, can be installed as a new, or a
replacement ventilation system, and in some embodiments, the
upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can replace an existing upgrade
cartridge assembly 20.
[0040] As shown in he top perspective of FIG. 1, in some
embodiments of the invention, an upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can
be provided as a compact assembly comprising a permanent split
capacitor motor 30, motor mounting plate 70, nestled within a
scroll 40, and coupled to a blower wheel 50. In some embodiments,
the motor 30 can be mechanically secured to the motor ting plate 70
using at least one motor plate bolt 75, and can be any motor
capable of providing sufficient rotational torque to turn the
blower wheel 50. In some embodiments the blower wheel 50 can be
mechanically coupled to the motor using a main drive bolt, (see
first end 60 of the main drive bolt in FIG. 1). In some
embodiments, when a permanent split capacitor motor 30 is used, the
motor 30 can be electrically coupled to at least one permanent
split capacitor 35. As shown in FIG. 1, the permanent split
capacitor 35 may be secured to the scroll 40, or in some other
embodiments, it may be secured to another component of the
ventilation assembly 10. In some embodiments, the motor 30 is
electrically coupled to a motor power harness 65 that is
electrically coupled to the capacitor 35. In some other
embodiments, the permanent split capacitor 35 may be secured to a
surface of a structure of a building, adjacent to the upgrade
cartridge assembly 20, and electrically coupled with the upgrade
cartridge assembly 20 with a motor power harness 65 (not
shown).
[0041] As shown in the side perspective view of a upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 of some embodiments of the invention in FIG. 2, the
scroll can be formed into any shape, but generally is shaped to
provide a compact and optimal fluid flow towards the blower outlet
55 when coupled to the motor mounting plate 70. The scroll may be
formed from any material that is readily shaped, including, but not
limited to, polymers, polymer-composites, metal, ceramic, or wood,
or paper-based composite or laminate. Furthermore, the use of
injection-molded or thermo-formed polymeric materials conveniently
allows a variety of functional components to be included into the
structure of the scroll 40. For example, in some embodiments, as
shown in FIG. 2, the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can include at
least one fan cartridge locating rib 80. The rib 80 provides
centering and guidance when maneuvering the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 within a main housing 25 to form the ventilation
assembly 10. In some further embodiments, other useful features can
be provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments
the scroll 40 can include a fan cartridge snap retention feature
85. The cartridge snap retention feature 85 is also shown in more
detail in FIG. 5, showing the positional relationship with respect
to the capacitor 35 and the motor power harness 65. In some
embodiments, the cartridge snap retention feature 85 may be
integral with the scroll 40, and can be used to secure the upgrade
cartridge assembly 20 into a main housing 25 of a ventilation
assembly 10. In some other embodiments, the cartridge snap
retention feature 85 i not integral to the scroll, but a separate
component (not shown). In some embodiments, the cartridge snap
retention feature 85 can be integral with the scroll 40, however
the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 may be coupled with the main
housing 25 using alternative methods.
[0042] In some embodiments, other useful features may be integral
with the scroll 40. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a screw boss
90 may be formed. In some other embodiments, more than one screw
boss 90 may be formed. The screw boss 90 provides an anchoring
feature for a fastener (not shown) to secure the scroll 40 to the
motor mounting plate. In some embodiments, a surface of the scroll
40 may provide an anchoring point for other components of the
upgrade cartridge assembly 20. For example, one or more screw holes
(not shown) may provide an anchoring location for the motor
capacitor 35, while at least one side of the scroll may provide a
mating surface for other components. As shown in FIG. 3, other
surfaces of the scroll 40 may provide a convenient location for
further fan cartridge locating ribs 80.
[0043] In some embodiments, one or more integral features of the
scroll may provide an anchoring location for at least one component
of the motor power harness 65. For example, referring to FIG. 4,
showing a side perspective view of a upgrade cartridge assembly 20
according to one embodiment of the invention, the motor power
harness 65 may be secured with at least one feature integral to the
scroll. Also shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the motor power
harness, secured to the scroll 40 can include at least one plug 67.
Referring again to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the one or more
wires of the motor power harness 65 can be secured to the scroll
using a component integral to the scroll 40. In some embodiments,
as shown in FIG. 5, holes may be integral to the scroll to provide
a guide for at least one wire of the motor power harness 65. In
some embodiments, plastic tie-wrap may be used (as shown in FIG.
5), in addition to other methods, however in other embodiments,
other methods may be used, such as clips, wire, wrap, or adhesive,
or the like.
[0044] In other embodiments of the invention., other useful
features can be integral to the scroll 40. For example, the rear
perspective view of a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 in FIG. 5 shows
an anchor 100, formed within the body of the scroll. In some
embodiments, the scroll 40 can include at least one anchor 100. In
some embodiments, the anchor 100 can be used with a fastener (not
shown), to anchor the upgrade cartridge assembly to the main
housing 25. As described above, in some embodiments the scroll 40
can include a fan cartridge snap retention feature 85 (also shown
in FIG. 5). In some embodiments, the cartridge snap retention
feature 85 can be used to secure the upgrade cartridge assembly 20
into a main housing 25 of a ventilation assembly 10. In some other
embodiments, the cartridge snap retention feature 85 is not
integral to the scroll, but a separate component (not shown). In
some embodiments, the cartridge snap retention feature 85 can be
integral with the scroll 40, however the upgrade cartridge assembly
20 may be coupled with the main housing 25 using alternative
methods, for example, using at least one anchor 100. In some
embodiments, the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can be secured into
the main housing 25 of a ventilation assembly 10 using at least one
anchor 100, and at least one fan cartridge snap retention feature
85.
[0045] In some further embodiments of the invention, other useful
features can be formed integral to the scroll 40. For example, as
shown in the side-rear view of a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 in
FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b, the scroll features a grille spring holder 110
according to one embodiment of the invention. Referring to the
exploded projection view in FIG. 15, in some embodiments, the
grille spring holder 110 can be used with a spring 115 to
conveniently secure a grille 117 to the ventilation assembly
10.
[0046] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a ventilation assembly
10 according to one embodiment of the invention. As discussed
earlier, one or more of the embodiments of the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 as shown in FIG. 1-5 may be coupled with a main housing
25 to form a ventilation assembly 10. For example, in FIG. 7, the
ventilation assembly 10 is shown in perspective without the
aforementioned grille 117, (shown in FIG. 15). A bottom perspective
view is shown in FIG. 8, showing the bottom side of the main
housing 25. In some embodiments, the main housing 25 may be formed
into any shape, included but limited to, a rectangular box-like
shape, an oval shape, a hemispherical shape, a spherical shape, a
pyramidal shape, or any other shape. In some embodiments the main
housing is formed from a sheet metal, including, but not limited to
an aluminum-based metal, a steel or iron-based metal, a zinc-based
metal, or a nickel and tin-based metal. In some other embodiments,
the main housing 25 may be formed from injection molded polymers,
thermo-formed polymers, thermosetting polymers, or sheet metal, or
any other suitable material. In some other embodiments, the housing
may comprises a wood-based product, such as wood, or particle-board
or wood laminate. In some embodiments, the main housing 25 can form
a base or a similar support structure of the ventilation assembly
10. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the main housing 25 can
provide points and areas of attachment for the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20, or other components of the assembly 10.
[0047] In some embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 can include
a duct connector assembly 270, comprising a first end 274 coupled
with the main housing 25, and the blower outlet 55 (not shown), and
a second end 276, forming a ventilation orifice 272. In some
embodiments, the duct connector assembly 270 is pre-installed in a
building structure and the duct connector assembly is coupled with
a ventilation duct of a building with the second end 276 of the
duct connector assembly 270. In some embodiments, the main housing
25 is firstly installed in an existing cavity or aperture of a
structure such as a wall or ceiling. Subsequently the duct
connector assembly 270 is installed by connecting a second end 276
with a ventilation duct of a building, and a first end 274 with an
aperture in the main housing 25 (not shown). Installation is
completed by securing a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 substantially
in the main housing, positioning the blower outlet 55 adjacent to
the first end 274 of the duct connector assembly 270 installed
adjacent to an aperture of the main housing 25.
[0048] Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7, illustrating a top perspective
view of a ventilation assembly 10 according to one embodiment of
the invention, the duct connector assembly can comprise a damper
flap 280. In some embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 can be
operable to discharge fluid flow from a space to another location.
For example, in some embodiments, when power is provided to the
upgrade cartridge assembly 20, a motor 30, such as a permanent
split capacitor motor 30, can rotate a blower wheel 50 positioned
substantially within a scroll 40. Fluid flow is moved substantially
towards the duct assembly, and the moveable damper flap 280 coupled
with a ventilation orifice 272 will open, allowing fluid to be
expelled from the ventilation assembly 10. In some embodiments the
damper flap 280 can control the backflow of a fluid into the
ventilation orifice 272 and the upgrade cartridge assembly 20, and
further be capable of substantially controlling the flow of fluid
from a space, such as a room, into the ventilation duct of a
building, or structure, to an outside location.
[0049] As discussed previously, some embodiments of the invention
comprise a cartridge upgrade assembly that includes a motor
mounting plate. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, a bottom
perspective view of a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 shows a motor
mounting plate 70 with the fan cartridge upgrade assembly 20
components mounted to the motor mounting plate 70. In some
embodiments, the scroll 40 includes at least one screw boss 90
which provides an anchoring feature for a fastener 73 to secure the
scroll 40 to the motor mounting plate 70. As shown in FIG. 9, a
permanent split capacitor motor 30 is mounted on the opposite side
of the motor mounting plate 70, and the second end 62 of the main
drive bolt can be seen at the base of the motor 30.
[0050] As described previously, it may be desirable to replace an
exhaust fan within a building or structure. For example, an old
exhaust fan may need to be replaced when broken, if the fan
produces excessive vibration or noise during operation. It may be
desirable to replace an old exhaust fan with one that is more
powerful, or has one or more features or characteristics different
than the existing exhaust fan. However, conventional exhaust fans
can be relatively difficult and time consuming to remove and
replace. By providing a ventilation assembly 10 that comprises a
upgrade cartridge assembly 20 with certain attachment and
detachment features, replacement or upgrade can be a faster and
less complex task. For example, as discussed earlier, some
embodiments of the invention include a scroll 40 with a fan
cartridge snap retention feature 85 (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 5). In
some embodiments of the invention, a upgrade cartridge assembly 20
is secured into a main housing 25 using at least one fan cartridge
snap retention feature 85. For example referring to FIG. 10 showing
a side perspective view of a ventilation assembly 10 according to
one embodiment of the invention, the fan cartridge snap retention
feature 85 can be seen engaged into an aperture in the main housing
25. In some embodiments of the invention, one or more fan cartridge
snap retention feature 85 can retain the upgrade cartridge assembly
20 in a main housing 25 without the use of additional tools or
hardware. As discussed previously, the fan cartridge snap retention
feature 85 can be an integral part of the scroll 40, or may be a
separate component. FIG. 10b shows a close-up view of a side of a
ventilation assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the
invention, and the fan cartridge snap retention feature 85 can be
seen exiting the main housing 25. FIG. 10c is a close-up top view
of the ventilation assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the
invention showing a fan cartridge snap retention feature 85 as an
integral part of the scroll 40, engaged with the main housing
25.
[0051] Some embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation
exhaust fan comprising a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 having at
least one permanent split capacitor motor, at least one permanent
split capacitor electrically coupled to the motor, a motor harness
including at least one plug, and a blower wheel coupled with a
scroll, coupled with the motor to generate a flow of fluid out of
the fluid outlet. In some embodiments, the motor 30 is electrically
coupled to a motor power harness 65 that is electrically coupled to
the capacitor 35. In some embodiments, the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 can he installed within an intermediate space, outside
of the room, area or space, and coupled with one or more
ventilation duct assemblies to provide ventilation to the room,
area or space. In some embodiments, the upgrade cartridge assembly
20, can be installed as a new, or a replacement ventilation system,
and in some embodiments, the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can
replace an existing upgrade cartridge assembly 20. Furthermore, in
some embodiments, the main housing 25 can provide points and areas
of attachment for the upgrade cartridge assembly, or other
components of the assembly 10. In some embodiments, when the main
housing 25 is installed, an electrical box enclosure 210 is
positioned within the main housing to provide a source of
electrical power to the capacitor 35 and motor 30. In some
embodiments, the electrical box enclosure 210 comprises an
electrical box cover plate 200, an electrical box anchoring tab 240
to secure the electrical box cover plate 200 to the electrical box
enclosure 210. The electrical box cover plate 200 can be seen in
more detail in FIG. 12. As show, in some embodiments, electrical
box attachment screw holes 230a and 230b are included and used with
a fastener (not shown) to secure the electrical box cover plate 200
to the main housing 25. Furthermore, electrical box anchors 220a
and 220b can be used to anchor the electrical box enclosure 210 to
the main housing 25. In some embodiments the electrical box
enclosure 210 includes a power receptacle 250.
[0052] In some embodiments, when the main housing 25 is installed,
an electrical box enclosure 210 is positioned within the main
housing and the internal wiring of the main housing (not shown) is
coupled with a electrical power supply to supply electrical power
to the power receptacle 250. As described earlier, in some
embodiments of the invention, an upgrade cartridge assembly 20 can
include a motor power harness 65 that may be secured, with at least
one feature integral to the scroll. Also shown in FIG. 4, in some
embodiments, the motor power harness, secured to the scroll 40 can
include at least one plug 67.
[0053] In some embodiments of the invention, the main housing can
be pre-installed by inserting into a cavity or aperture of a
structure. In some embodiments, following assembly and installation
of at least the main housing 25, the installer can connect one or
more terminals of the power receptacle 250 to an external source of
electrical power. The electrical box enclosure 210 and the
electrical box cover plate 200 can be fully assembled, and the
power receptacle 250 can be coupled to the external power source.
The installer can maneuver the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 in the
main housing 25 and the plug 67 can be coupled with the power
receptacle 250. In some embodiments, the plug 67 can be coupled
with the power receptacle 250, and then the installer can maneuver
the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 in the main housing 25. In some
embodiments, once the upgrade cartridge assembly 20 has been
maneuvered into the main housing 25, one or more cartridge snap
retention features 85 can be used to secure the upgrade cartridge
assembly 20 into a main housing 25 of a ventilation assembly 10. In
some other embodiments, the ventilation assembly 10 may be fully
assembled and installed directly into a cavity or aperture of a
structure.
[0054] As discussed earlier, in some embodiments of the invention,
the ventilation assembly 10 can include a duct connector assembly
270, comprising a first end 274 coupled with the main housing 25,
and the blower outlet 55, and a second end 276, forming a
ventilation orifice 272. In some embodiments, the main housing 25
is firstly installed in an existing cavity or aperture of a
structure such as a wall or ceiling. Subsequently, the duct
connector assembly 270 is installed by connecting a second end 276
with a ventilation duct of a building, and a first end 274 with an
aperture in the main housing 25 (not shown). Installation is
completed by securing a upgrade cartridge assembly 20 substantially
in the main housing, positioning the blower outlet 55 adjacent to
the first end 274 of the duct connector assembly 270 installed
adjacent to an aperture of the main housing 25. In some
embodiments, the duct connector assembly 270 is pre-installed in a
building structure and not pre-installed in the main housing 25 of
a ventilation assembly 10. As shown in FIG. 13a and FIG. 13b, in
sonic embodiments, the duct connector assembly 270 can comprise
damper flap 280 that is rotatable within the duct connector
assembly 270, and in some embodiments, can further include a duct
snap mounting assembly 290. In some embodiments, the ventilation
assembly 10 may be fully assembled and include a duct connector
assembly 270 including a duct snap mounting assembly 290. As shown
in FIG. 14a, one embodiment showing a close-up view of a duct
connector 270 assembly installed in a main housing 25 viewed from
within the main housing 25, with the duct snap mounting assembly
290 forcibly securing the duct connector assembly 270 to the main
housing 25. FIG. 14b and FIG. 14c show the outside view of the
fully assembled ventilation assembly 10. FIG. 14b is a close-up
view of a duct connector assembly installed in a main housing
according to one embodiment of the invention, and shows a duct
connector tab 295 coupled with the main housing 25 when the duct
connector assembly 270 is fully installed in the main housing 25.
FIG. 14c is a close-up view of a duct connector assembly installed
in main housing according to one embodiment of the invention
showing a portion of the duct snap mounting assembly 290 extending
outside of an aperture in the main housing 25 as the assembly 290
forcibly secures the duct connector assembly 270 to the main
housing 25.
[0055] FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of a ventilation assembly 10
according to one embodiment of the invention. Referring to the
exploded projection view showing the grille spring holder 110,
(shown previously for example in the side-rear view of a upgrade
cartridge assembly 20 in FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b), once the ventilation
assembly installation has been completed, a spring 115 can be used
to conveniently secure a grille 117 to the ventilation assembly 10.
In some other embodiments, the grille 117 may be secured to the
ventilation assembly 10 with more than one spring 115 and more than
one grille spring holder 110. In some other embodiments, the grille
117 may be secured to the ventilation assembly 10 by some other
component, such as a clip, a wire, a wrap, or adhesive, or the
like. In some embodiments, the grille 117 can be formed from
injection molded polymers, thermo-formed polymers, thermosetting
polymers, or sheet metal, or any other suitable material.
[0056] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
while the invention has been described above in connection with
particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not
necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments,
examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments,
examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims
attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and
publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each
such patent or publication were individually incorporated by
reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention
are set forth in the following claims.
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