A Flow Component

Abstract

A flow component for a ventilation or air condition system has an inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture fluidly connected to an outlet, a first abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and a second abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling frame member. The flow component has a channel formation on at least one side of the inlet formation or the outlet which is adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component in use.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a flow component for a ventilation system, and in particular, but not exclusively, to a diffuser or return for an air-conditioning system which has an improved means of connection to a duct.

BACKGROUND ART

Forced ventilation, in particular air conditioning, is an essential feature of most modern commercial buildings and of many residential buildings.

Typically, air is pumped through a system of ducts which are located above the ceiling or beneath the floor. Air moves from the ducts to a room which is to be ventilated through a diffuser. The diffuser ensures that the air mixes with the air already in the room while producing a minimum of noise.

In order to provide a sufficient volume of air at a relatively low air speed (thereby avoiding drafts and excessive noise), the diffusers must be relatively large and/or a large number of diffusers must be used. While aesthetically pleasing diffuser designs are available, there exists a need for an efficient diffuser which is either substantially invisible or is at least visually unobtrusive.

The ventilation system typically also has one or more air returns through which stale air moves from the room and is expelled to the atmosphere, sometime via a return duct system.

Creating a seal between the air conditioning ducting and the diffuser or return can be difficult. Typically, the ducting is provided with a rigid “boot” which slides over an inlet of the diffuser/return. Sealing between the boot and the diffuser is often achieved through the use of suitable sealant compounds which are applied (often in a liquid or paste form) between the boot and the diffuser/return and/or through the use of sealing tape.

While the prior art methods of sealing may work well when the installer has room to work around the diffuser/return, it may be difficult or impossible to seal the diffuser/return properly if it is mounted close to a structural element of the building (for example a ceiling beam) which restricts access to one or more sides. Furthermore, traditional sealing methods may be inconvenient and messy.

Another problem with existing diffuser designs relates to the fact that it is impossible to create a perfectly flat ceiling or wall. The imperfections inherent in these building elements can make it difficult to create a smooth joint where the ceiling or wall lining meets the diffuser.

A common design feature of commercial interior fit-outs, in particular fit-outs in the retail sector, is a ceiling which has a “negative detail” around the outer perimeter. This negative detail has the appearance of a slot between the wall and the ceiling. However, the difficulties with creating a flat ceiling or wall mentioned above are particularly prevalent when creating a negative detail effect.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the foregoing problems, or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

A flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprising an inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture which is fluidly connected to an outlet, the flow component comprising a first abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and a second abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member.

Preferably the flow component comprises a channel formation on at least one side of the inlet formation or the outlet.

Preferably the or each channel formation is provided with a sealing member.

Preferably the or each channel formation is adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component.

Preferably the or each channel formation comprises at least one recess adapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of the second flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wall from the channel.

Preferably the at least one recess comprises a groove.

Preferably the groove is adapted to receive a dimple provided on the side wall of the second flow component.

Preferably the sealing member has a substantially circular cross-section.

Preferably the sealing member extends along an entire length of the channel formation.

Preferably the sealing member is a substantially U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably the flow component is configured as a diffuser.

Preferably the flow component is configured as a return.

Preferably the first abutment portion comprises a first abutment portion surface.

Preferably the inlet formation is offset from a plane of the first abutment portion surface.

Preferably the offset is at least 10 mm, more preferably around 20 mm. In some embodiments the offset may be as much as substantially 50 mm.

Preferably the second abutment portion comprises a second abutment portion surface, wherein the plane of the first abutment portion surface is substantially orthogonal to a plane of the second abutment portion surface.

Preferably the inlet formation extends no more than 35 mm from the plane of the second abutment portion surface.

Preferably the flow component comprises a wall lining engagement formation for engaging a wall lining element in use.

Preferably the wall lining engagement formation comprises a first capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the first abutment portion and a first trim portion which extends from a distal end of the first capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the first capping portion.

Preferably the flow component comprises a ceiling lining engagement formation for engaging a ceiling lining element in use.

Preferably the ceiling lining engagement formation comprises a second capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutment portion and a second trim portion which extends from a distal end of the second capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the second capping portion.

Preferably the outlet is defined in part by the ceiling lining engagement formation and the wall lining engagement formation.

Preferably the flow component comprises a body which defines the first abutment portion, the second abutment portion, the inlet formation and the flow path from the inlet aperture to the air outlet.

Preferably the body is an extrusion.

Preferably the flow component comprises end caps secured to each end of the body.

Preferably the flow component comprises a plurality of air inlets and at least one air outlet, wherein each air outlet is fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of air inlets.

Preferably each inlet aperture is covered by a respective covering means.

Preferably each covering means is connected to the body by a respective frangible linking portion.

Preferably the flow component comprises at least one moveable airflow directing means adapted to control a direction of a flow of air from the outlet, in use.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a diffuser of the first aspect as a joining means for use in forming a negative detail between a wall lining element and a ceiling lining element, the joining means provided with at least one flow prevention means for preventing flow through the or each air inlet.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a joining means for use in forming a negative detail between a wall lining element and a ceiling lining element, the joining means comprising a wall lining engagement formation, a ceiling lining engagement formation and a connecting portion provided between the wall lining engagement formation and the ceiling lining engagement formation.

Preferably the connecting portion defines a channel.

Preferably the joining means comprises a first abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member.

Preferably the connecting portion comprises two substantially parallel walls.

Preferably the substantially parallel walls extend at an angle to a plane of the first abutment portion.

Preferably the wall lining engagement formation comprises a first capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the first abutment portion, and a first trim portion which extends from a distal end of the first capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the first capping portion.

Preferably the joining means comprises a second abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member.

Preferably the ceiling lining engagement formation comprising a second capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutment portion, and a second trim portion which extends from a distal end of the second capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the second capping portion.

Preferably the joining means is elongate.

Preferably the joining means has a substantially constant transverse cross-section.

Preferably the joining means comprises an extruded body comprising at least the wall lining engagement formation, the ceiling lining engagement formation and the connecting portion.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a diffuser for an air conditioning system comprising the steps of:

• • i) extruding a body comprising an air inlet formation, an air outlet, a first abutment portion for abutting, in use, a wall framing member and a second abutment portion for abutting, in use, a ceiling framing member; and
  • ii) creating at least one air inlet aperture in the air inlet formation. Preferably the method comprises the step of:
  • iii) creating a plurality of air inlet apertures in the air inlet formation, wherein the air inlet apertures are spaced apart along a length of the body;

Preferably the method comprises the step of attaching an end cap to each end of the body.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprising an inlet formation provided with a first aperture and an outlet formation provided with a second aperture, wherein the first and second apertures are in fluid communication, the flow component comprising a channel formation on at least one side of at least one of the inlet and outlet, the or each channel formation adapted to receive a substantially U-shaped sealing member.

Preferably, the or each channel formation is provided with a substantially U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, the or each U-shaped resilient sealing member comprises two side walls.

Preferably, at least one inner face of the or each channel formation is provided with a protruding engagement formation which is adapted to engage a complementary recess or notch in an outer face of a sidewall of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, the or each channel formation comprises a pair of opposed inner faces, each inner face provided with protruding engagement formations which engage complementary recesses provided on both side walls of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, at least one inner face of the or each channel formation is provided with a recess which is adapted to receive an outwardly protruding portion of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, each inner face of the or each channel formation is provided with a recess which is adapted to receive respective outwardly protruding portions of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, each side wall of the or each U-shaped resilient sealing member has an inner face, wherein each inner face of each side wall of the or each U-shaped resilient sealing members is provided with a protruding formation.

Preferably, the or each U-shaped resilient sealing member is adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component.

Preferably, the flow component is a diffuser and the channel formation is provided on at least one side of the inlet formation.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first side of the first aperture and a second channel provided on a second side of the first aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channel extends continuously around the first aperture.

Preferably, the flow component is a return and the channel formation is provided on at least one side of the outlet formation.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first side of the second aperture and a second channel provided on a second side of the second aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channel extends continuously around the second aperture.

Preferably, the flow component is a supply boot.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first side of a selected one of said apertures and a second channel provided on a second side of the selected aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channel extends continuously around the selected aperture.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprising an inlet formation provided with a first aperture and an outlet formation provided with a second aperture, wherein the first and second apertures are in fluid communication, the flow component comprising a channel formation on at least one side of at least one of the inlet and outlet formations, the or each channel formation provided with a sealing member and adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component.

Preferably, the or each channel formation comprises at least one recess adapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of the second flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wall from the channel.

Preferably, the at least one recess comprises a groove.

Preferably the at least one projecting portion is formed as a dimple on the side wall and the groove is adapted to receive the dimple.

Preferably, the sealing member has a substantially circular cross-section.

Preferably, the sealing member extends along the entire length of the channel formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a diffuser and the channel formation is provided on at least one side of the inlet formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a return and the channel formation is provided on at least one side of the outlet formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a supply boot.

Preferably, the channel formation of the first flow component comprises a first channel formation on a first side of a selected one of said apertures and a second channel formation provided on a second side of the selected aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channel formation extends continuously around the selected aperture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 Is an end view of a diffuser according to one embodiment of the present invention with a boot installed and an end cap removed for clarity;

FIG. 2 Is a perspective view of the diffuser and boot of FIG. 1 with the ends and the diffuser core removed for clarity;

FIG. 3 Is an enlarged partial view of the left-hand side of the diffuser and boot shown in FIG. 1, with the diffuser core removed;

FIG. 4 Is a further enlarged view of the left-hand channel of the diffuser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 Is a cross-sectional end view of a diffuser according to a second embodiment of the present invention with a boot installed;

FIG. 6 Is a cross-sectional end view of a return according to a third embodiment of the present invention with the resilient sealing members omitted for clarity;

FIG. 7 Is an exploded view of an assembly comprising a diffuser and a boot according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 Shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a side wall of the boot and a channel of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 Is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 Is an end view of the diffuser of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 Is an end view of an assembly comprising the diffuser of FIG. 9 (with a bracing member installed), a supply boot, a ceiling batten, ceiling lining, wall lining and wall framing;

FIG. 12 Is an end view of the diffuser of FIGS. 9 and 10 engaged with a boot and with the bracing member installed;

FIG. 13 Is an end view of a diffuser according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 Is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 Is a perspective view of an extrusion forming one side wall of a boot according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 Is an end view of the extrusion of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 Is an enlarged view of detail A of the boot of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 Is an end view of a mounting frame for a diffuser according to a further embodiment of the present invention with a boot installed and an end cap removed for clarity;

FIG. 19 Is a cross-section view of a flow component with a boot installed, and with the sealing member not shown; and

FIG. 20 Is an end view of an extrusion forming one side of the boot of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an end view of a joining means according to an embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring first to FIGS. 1-4, a flow component according to one embodiment of the invention is generally referenced by arrow 100. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4 the flow component is configured as a diffuser. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the diffuser 100 is similar to that described in New Zealand patent No. 328324, although many other configurations are possible, as is described further below.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 comprises a mounting frame 1 to which a diffuser core 2 is attached in use. The core 2 defines one or more outlets 25 for the diffuser. The frame 1 is provided with resilient locating means 3 adapted to locate the frame 1 with respect to the building structure (not shown) to which the diffuser 100 is mounted in use, and locating means 4 adapted to locate ceiling panels (not shown) with respect to the frame 1.

The diffuser 100 comprises an inlet formation 5 provided with at least one inlet aperture 6. A first channel 7 is provided on a first side of the inlet formation 5 and a second channel 8 is provided on the opposite second side of the inlet formation 5. Each channel 7, 8 is adapted to receive a substantially U-shaped resilient sealing member 9. The U-shaped resilient sealing member 9 preferably extends, in use, along substantially the entire length of the respective channel 7, 8. In preferred embodiments the U-shaped resilient sealing member 9 is made from rubber.

In some embodiments, the side walls 10 of the channels 7, 8 may be substantially equal in height. However, this is not essential, and in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 the walls 10 of the channels are different heights, with the inner side walls 10a being higher than the outer side walls 10b. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the inner side wall 10a of each channel comprises a side wall of the inlet formation 5.

In some embodiments, the outer faces of the U-shaped resilient member may be attached to the inner faces of the side walls of the channel by means of an adhesive or similar. However, as best seen in FIG. 4, in other embodiments at least one inner face 11 of the channel is provided with a protruding engagement formation 12 which is adapted to engage a complementary recess or notch 13 in an outer face 14 of the side wall 15 of the U-shaped resilient sealing member 9. In the embodiment shown a plurality of protruding engagement formations 12 are provided on both inner faces of the channel 7.

At least one of the engagement formations 12 has an upper surface 16 which slopes downward from the side wall 10 of the channel towards a base 17 of the channel, and a lower surface 18 which also slopes downward from the side wall 10 of the channel towards the base of the channel, or is substantially parallel to the base 17 of the channel. This shape may assist with retaining the U-shaped resilient sealing member 9 within the channel, while allowing the sealing member to be installed into the channel 7, 8 relatively easily.

In preferred embodiments, at least one of the inner faces 11 of the channel 7, 8 is provided with a recess 19 which is adapted to receive an outwardly protruding portion 20 of the resilient sealing member 9. In preferred embodiments an upper edge 21 of the outer wall of each channel may be flared outwardly in order to assist with guiding a boot 22 into position.

In some embodiments the resilient sealing members 9 are engaged with the diffuser 100 before the diffuser 100 is installed into an in-use position. With the resilient sealing members 9 in place, a suitably shaped boot 22 (for example one with appropriately spaced substantially parallel sidewalls 23) can be engaged with the diffuser 100 by inserting the sidewalls 23 into the mouth 24 of the respective resilient sealing members 9.

In alternative embodiments, the resilient sealing members 9 may be engaged with the sidewalls of the boot by inserting the sidewalls 23 into the mouth 24 of the respective resilient sealing members. The boot 22 with the resilient sealing members 9 attached may then be engaged with the diffuser by inserting the side walls (and resilient sealing members) into the respective channels. Once so installed, the resilient sealing members 9 create a seal between the boot 22 and the diffuser 100, eliminating the need for the use of separate sealing compounds and/or sealing tapes along the sides of the diffuser 100. Some alternative sealing means such as sealing compound and/or tape may be required at the ends of the diffuser 100, or possibly a patch of metal placed at the end, although in some embodiments no sealing may be required between the ends of the boot and the diffuser.

Referring next to FIG. 5, another embodiment of a flow component in the form of a diffuser according to the invention is shown with a boot 22 installed, and is generally referenced by arrow 101.

As well as the inlet formation 5, inlet aperture(s) 6, outlet 25, first and second channels 7, 8 and U-shaped resilient sealing members 9, the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is also provided with a first abutment portion 26 configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member (not shown) and a second abutment portion 27 configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member (not shown). As with the diffuser described above, the resilient sealing members 9 may be engaged with the channels 7, 8 before installation, or they may be engaged with the boot 22 and may engage with the channels 7, 8 only when the boot 22 is connected to the return.

Referring next to FIG. 6, a flow component according to an embodiment of the invention is generally referenced as arrow 102. In this embodiment the flow component is a return. The return 102 is substantially identical in shape to the diffuser 101 shown in FIG. 5, but the inlet formation of the diffuser operates as outlet formation 28 and the positions of the inlet aperture 6 and outlets 25 are swapped. In this embodiment, the channels 7, 8 and resilient sealing members (not shown) are provided on either side of the outlet formation 28 rather than the inlet formation. The shape of the channels 7, 8 and the resilient sealing members may be identical to embodiments which are configured as diffusers.

Referring next to FIGS. 7 and 8, an assembly is shown comprising a first flow component in the form of a diffuser 103 and a second flow component in the form of a boot 22.

As shown the diffuser 103 may have an inlet 6 comprising four sides. A channel 31, similar to the side channels described above, extends continuously around the inlet 6.

As shown in FIG. 8, the boot 22 may further comprise sidewalls 23, each of which is provided with a resilient sealing member 9 similar to that described above. The resilient sealing member 9 may then be inserted into the channel 31 as indicated in FIG. 8, to thereby seal the boot 22 to the diffuser 103. A similar system may be used for connecting a boot to a return, or another flow component.

Referring to FIGS. 9-13, a first flow component according to a further embodiment of the invention is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, and is generally referenced by arrow 104. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-13 the first flow component is configured as a diffuser. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate the diffuser may also be used as a return for a ventilation or air-conditioning system, with references to inlets being substituted for references to outlets and vice versa.

In many embodiments the abutment portions 26, 27 will be connected to the respective framing members 34, 35 by the use of suitable fasteners, for example screws or nails. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 in particular, the inner surfaces of the first and second abutment portions 26, 27 may be provided with channels or grooves 29 which assist in the installation of the fasteners.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 104 is elongate, and in many embodiments comprises an extruded body 30 which defines the first abutment portion 26, second abutment portion 27, air inlet formation 5, and the flow path between the air inlet aperture 6 and the outlet 25.

The first abutment portion 26 comprises a first abutment portion surface 50 which is preferably substantially planar. The second abutment portion 27 comprises a second abutment portion surface 51 which is also preferably substantially planar. In preferred embodiments the plane P1 of the first abutment portion surface 50 is substantially orthogonal to the plane P2 of the second abutment portion surface 51, as best seen in FIG. 12.

Referring next to FIG. 11, the diffuser 104 preferably comprises a wall lining engagement formation 52 for engaging a wall lining element 37 in use. The wall lining engagement formation 52 comprises a first capping portion 53 which extends substantially orthogonally from the first abutment portion 26, and a first trim portion 54 which extends from a distal end of the first capping portion 53, substantially orthogonally to the first capping portion 53. As best seen in FIG. 11, in use a wall lining element 37, for example a plasterboard sheet, can be engaged with the wall lining engagement formation 52 such that the end of the wall lining element 37 is substantially adjacent the first capping portion 53. In this way the end of the wall lining element 37 is covered in an aesthetically pleasing way.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 100 also comprises a ceiling lining engagement formation 55 which comprises a second capping portion 56 which extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutment portion 27 and a second trim portion 57 which extends from the distal end of the second capping portion 56, substantially orthogonally to the second capping portion 56. As can be seen in FIG. 11, the ceiling lining engagement formation 55 operates in substantially the same way as the wall lining engagement formation 52 to engage a ceiling lining element 38 (for example a plasterboard sheet) and to conceal the end of the ceiling lining element 38.

The wall lining engagement formation 52 and ceiling lining engagement formation 55 also function to ensure that the interface between the diffuser and the wall lining and ceiling lining is smooth, and that any imperfections in the flatness of the wall or ceiling are accommodated. In a preferred method of installation, a gap of 300 mm may be provided between the diffuser 104 and the nearest wall or ceiling fixing, in order to allow a gentle transition between the plane of the surrounding wall/ceiling lining and the diffuser.

The first abutment portion 26 and the second abutment portion 27 may comprise one or more protrusions 36 which are configured to ensure the wall lining 37 and ceiling lining 38 have a secure fit, as best seen in FIG. 11. In some forms of the technology the protrusions 36 may be in the form of dimples so that they are able to be easily flattened for instance by using pliers or by being stamped with a hammer. This means that in cases where the wall lining 37 or ceiling lining 38 is of a greater thickness the protrusions can be adjusted to ensure a secure fit.

As can be seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the outlet 25 is defined at least in part by the ceiling lining engagement formation 55 and the wall lining engagement formation 52. In many embodiments the diffuser 104 defines only a single outlet 25 which extends along the length of the diffuser. However, in some embodiments (not shown) partitions or baffles may be provided along the length of the diffuser in order to define multiple outlets.

In some embodiments LED strip lighting may be provided within the diffuser, for example on the upper surface of the wall lining engagement formation.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 104 is provided with a movable airflow directing means 60 (shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, and also FIG. 5) of a known type which is adapted to determine a direction of airflow from the outlet 25. The airflow directing means 60 can be rotated about a rotatable connection 61 to the body 30 in order to adjust the airflow directing means 60 between a first position (not shown) in which the air is directed along the ceiling lining and a second position (shown in FIGS. 5, 11 and 12) in which air is directed down the wall lining. The applicant has found that when the airflow directing means 60 is in the first position the airflow from the diffuser 100 remains attached to the ceiling lining for a significant distance, for example a number of meters. When the airflow directing means 60 is in the second position the airflow remains attached to the wall lining for a similar distance. The airflow directing means 60 can be positioned intermediate the first and second positions if airflow which is not attached to one of the linings is required. When the apparatus is configured as a return, the airflow directing means 60 may be omitted.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that provision of the wall lining engagement formation 52 and the ceiling lining engagement formation 55 mean that the diffuser 104 will be integrated into the interior decoration of the room in an aesthetically pleasing way. In some modes of installation (not shown) the intersection between the trim portions 54, 57 and the respective lining elements 37, 38 may be plastered in order to create a seamless appearance. However, in many installations this will not be necessary as the trim portions 54, 57 create an aesthetically pleasing interface between the diffuser and the lining elements. In some installations the trim portions 54, 57 may be painted the same colour as the ceiling and walls (optionally following the application of a suitable priming material), such that the diffuser 104 is visually integrated into the wall and ceiling, and may be substantially invisible.

As best seen in FIG. 12, the inlet formation 5 (or, where provided, the first channel 7) is preferably offset from a plane P1 of the first abutment portion surface by a distance X1. The offset distance X1 is preferably at least 10 mm, for example between 10 mm and 50 mm, more preferably around 20 mm. This offset allows a supply boot 22 to be connected to the inlet formation 5 after the diffuser 104 has been attached to the wall framing 34 without interference between the boot and the wall framing 34, as shown in FIG. 11.

In preferred embodiments the distance X2 that the inlet formation 5 extends from a plane P2 of the second abutment portion surface 51 is no more than 35 mm. This ensures that the height the diffuser extends above the bottom surface of the ceiling framing member 35 is the same or less then the height of a typical ceiling batten to which the diffuser 104 is mounted (as shown in FIG. 11), thereby ensuring that the diffuser does not interfere with other structural members in the ceiling.

Referring next to FIG. 13 in particular, as is mentioned above, the diffuser 104 may be manufactured by extrusion of a body 30 comprising the inlet formation 5, the first abutment portion 26 and the second abutment portion 27, whereby the first and second abutment portions define an air outlet 25. The body 30 may be extruded from aluminium or a suitable plastics material. Following extrusion of the body 30, one or more inlet apertures 6 may be created in the inlet formation 5, for example by a stamping process. End caps (not shown) may be provided at either end of the diffuser 104 and may be secured to the body by fasteners. The body 30 may be provided with fastener receiving formations 62 for receiving the fasteners.

The airflow directing means 60 may be attached to the body 30 by any suitable means, but is preferably provided with a substantially cylindrical attachment portion which engages a complimentary receiving formation 63 provided on the body 30.

As well as the outlet 25, first abutment portion 26 and second abutment portion 27, the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is also provided with cover means 32 which cover the inlet apertures 6 and are attached to the body 30 by linking portions 33. The linking portions 33 are relatively weak or frangible so that selected cover means 32 can be removed by the installer by bending to allow air flow through the corresponding aperture.

The diffuser 104 may also be supplied with a removeable bracing member 41 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The removeable bracing member 41 spans the outlet 25 and ensures the correct spacing between the first and second abutment portions 26, 27 is maintained during the installation process. The bracing member 41 may also reduce the possibility of damage or distortion of the diffuser 104 during transportation and installation. The bracing member 25 may be removed once the diffuser 104 is installed by rotating the bracing member 41. FIGS. 10 and 13 show the diffuser 104 with the bracing member 25 removed.

The channels 7, 8 may be configured to receive a sealing member 39. The sealing member 39 is configured to fit along the bottom of the channel 7, 8. In use, the sealing member creates a seal between the channel of the diffuser and the side wall 23 of a second flow component, in this case a boot 22, which is engaged in use with the diffuser 104.

In some forms of the technology as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 the sealing member may be substantially circular in cross-section, although other shapes may be used.

The channels 7, 8 may be provided with a recess 19 on one or both side walls of the channels 7, 8. Not all the recesses and protrusions seen on the side walls of the channels 7, 8 in FIGS. 9-13 are essential to embodiments which use a round cross-section sealing member, but provision of the recesses shown may allow use of a U-shaped sealing member (such as described above) if required. The recess 19 may be configured as a channel, and is configured to receive a projecting portion 40 from the side wall 23 of the second flow component. This projection 40 is configured to engage the recess 19 such that once the side wall 23 is inserted in the channel 7, 8 it is restrained from disengaging the channel. However, some embodiments may be configured such that if the side wall 23 is pushed inwards the projection 40 disengages from the recess 19 and the side wall 23 is able to be detached from the channel. In some forms of the technology more than one projection 40 is provided along the length of the side wall 23. In some forms of the technology the projection 40 may be in the form of a dimple that has been pressed out of the side wall 23. FIGS. 15-17 show details of the supply boot 23 and the projection 40 in the form of a dimple.

In alternative embodiments the channels 7, 8 may form part of the boot 23 and the projections and side wall 23 may form part of the diffuser 104.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of a flow component in the form of a diffuser 105. The diffuser 105 differs from the previous embodiment in that it has only one channel 7 and the channel does not have any recesses or protrusions on the side walls. The channel 7 is configured to receive a sealing member 39 which can then form a seal with a side wall 23 of a second flow component. The other side of the diffuser 105 may be sealed to the boot using sealing compounds or sealing tape.

FIG. 18 shows a further alternative embodiment of a flow component in the form of a diffuser 106, similar to the diffuser shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 18 shows a mounting frame 1, similar to that shown in FIG. 1, to which a diffuser core (not shown) is attached in use. As with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the frame 1 is provided with resilient locating means 3 adapted to locate the frame 1 with respect to the building structure (not shown) to which the diffuser 106 is mounted in use, and locating means 4 adapted to locate ceiling panels (not shown) with respect to the frame 1. The diffuser 100 comprises an inlet formation 5 provided with at least one inlet aperture 6. A first channel 7 is provided on a first side of the inlet formation 5 and a second channel 8 is provided on the opposite second side of the inlet formation 5. The channels may be provided with a sealing member 39, as with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Each of the channels 7, 8 may be provided with a recess 19 as described above. The recess 19 is configured to receive a projecting portion 40 from the side wall 23 of the boot 22. This projection 40 is configured to engage the recess 19 such that once the side wall 23 is inserted in the channel 7, 8 it is restrained from disengaging the channel.

In a further embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 a boot 22 comprises channels 7, 8 which are adapted to engage with a side wall of a second flow component 42 such as a diffuser or grille. The channels 7, 8 comprise a recess 19 configured to receive a projection 40 from the side wall 43 of the flow component 42. The projection 40 is configured to engage the recess 19 such that once the side wall 43 is inserted in the channel 7, 8 it is restrained from disengaging the channel. In use, the channels 7, 8 are provided with a sealing means (not shown) as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.

The diffuser/return shown in FIGS. 6 and 9-14 provides a convenient joining means between the wall lining element and the ceiling lining element where a “negative detail” effect is required. In some situations, the diffuser/return may be installed simply to be used as a joining means rather than as a diffuser or a return. For example, a four sided room (not shown) may have the diffuser/return installed along one side configured as a diffuser, two sides with the diffuser/return configured as a joining means, and a fourth side with the diffuser/return configured as a return for the air conditioning system.

Referring next to FIG. 21, according to another embodiment of the invention a variation of the diffuser/return shown in FIGS. 6 and 9-14 is manufactured solely for use as such a joining means 200. This embodiment is provided with a first abutment portion 26 and a wall lining engagement formation 52, a second abutment portion 27 and a ceiling lining engagement formation 55, for example as described above. However, rather than an inlet formation, the joining means 200 is provided with a connecting portion 64 between the first abutment portion 26 and second abutment portion 27. The connecting portion 30 is preferably a similar shape to the inlet formation 5 described above, and thereby defines a channel 65 which creates the required “negative detail”.

In the embodiment shown the channel 65 is defined in part by two substantially parallel walls 66 which extend an angle to a plane of the first abutment portion 26. However, no inlet apertures are provided in the connecting portion.

The joining means 200 is preferably elongate and has a substantially constant transverse cross-section. In preferred embodiments the joining means comprises an extruded body which defines the first abutment portion 26, second abutment portion 27 and connecting portion 64. In preferred embodiments the body is an aluminium extrusion.

While the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 is provided with fastener receiving portions 62 and a receiving formation 63, these are not essential and will be omitted from many embodiments.

Use of the joining means 200 described above may assist in creating a negative detail effect which reduces or substantially eliminates the visual impact of non-planar walls or ceilings.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof.

Claims

1. A flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprising an inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture which is fluidly connected to an outlet, the flow component comprising a first abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and a second abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member.

2. The flow component of claim 1 comprising a channel formation on at least one side of the inlet formation or the outlet, the channel formation adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component, in use.

3. The flow component of claim 2 wherein the or each channel formation is provided with a sealing member which extends along an entire length of the channel formation.

4. The flow component of claim 2, wherein the or each channel formation comprises at least one recess adapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of the second flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wall from the channel.

5. The flow component of claim 4 wherein the at least one recess comprises a groove.

6. The flow component of claim 5 wherein the groove is adapted to receive a dimple provided on the side wall of the second flow component.

7. The flow component of claim 3 wherein the sealing member has a substantially circular cross-section.

8. (canceled)

9. The flow component of claim 3 wherein the sealing member is a substantially U-shaped resilient sealing member.

10. The flow component of claim 1 configured as a diffuser.

11. The flow component of claim 10 wherein the first abutment portion comprises a first abutment portion surface and the inlet formation is offset from a plane of the first abutment portion surface.

12. (canceled)

13. The flow component of claim 11 wherein the second abutment portion comprises a second abutment portion surface, wherein the plane of the first abutment portion surface is substantially orthogonal to a plane of the second abutment portion surface.

14. The flow component of claim 10 wherein the flow component comprises a wall lining engagement formation for engaging a wall lining element in use.

15. The flow component of claim 14 wherein the wall lining engagement formation comprises a first capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the first abutment portion and a first trim portion which extends from a distal end of the first capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the first capping portion.

16. The flow component of claim 14 comprising a ceiling lining engagement formation for engaging a ceiling lining element in use, wherein the ceiling lining engagement formation comprises a second capping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutment portion and a second trim portion which extends from a distal end of the second capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the second capping portion.

17. (canceled)

18. The flow component of claim 16 wherein the outlet is defined in part by the ceiling lining engagement formation and the wall lining engagement formation.

19. The flow component of claim 10 comprising a body which defines the first abutment portion, the second abutment portion, the inlet formation and a flow path from the inlet aperture to the outlet.

20. The flow component of claim 19 wherein the body is an extrusion.

21. (canceled)

22. The flow component of claim 19 comprising a plurality of inlet apertures and at least one outlet, wherein each outlet is fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of inlet apertures.

23. The flow component of claim 22 wherein each inlet aperture is covered by a respective covering means, wherein each covering means is connected to the body by a respective frangible linking portion.

24. (canceled)

25. The flow component of claim 10 comprising at least one moveable airflow directing means adapted to control a direction of a flow of air from the outlet, in use.