Patent Application
20080007046
Different views of the invention are shown in
A plurality of tubular shaped parallel collars 10 of different common duct sizes are arranged in a stepped configuration leaving the largest collar 10 adjacent to the transition area 17.
These collars 10 are of sufficient length to accommodate easy duct installation. Each collar 10 is joined by an annular member 16 which connects collars 10 of different sizes. An alternating series of collars 10 and annular members 34 create the portion of the invention which is to be used for duct connection. V-shaped grooves 12 creating an area of reduced wall thickness are located along the perimeter of collars 10 adjacent to the larger end of the annular members. Located along, and surrounding the groove 11 are multiple separation tabs 18.
The outlet end is of a size, shape, and length to accommodate the insertion of an air grille or diffuser 12.
A flange 13, extending outwardly ninety degrees from and surrounding the outlet end, has a rectangular outer configuration. This flange extends outward to a size slightly less than the overall diffuser 12 size. The diffuser 12 is attached to this flange with a plurality of screws 16. The exact design of the diffuser is not important, but includes a rectangular outer mounting frame, and a plurality of air deflecting fins 14 of sufficient size, quantity, and orientation to direct the exiting air in the desired direction(s).
The method of installing the present invention, and the function of its parts is described below. After determining the location for the air diffuser
After determining the duct size to be connected, all smaller collar 10 sections must be removed to prevent obstruction of the airway. This is done by inserting a sharp knife blade into the v shaped groove, and cutting around the perimeter of collar, thereby removing unneeded sections. An alternate embodiment incorporates a pair of parallel, rectangular shaped tabs 18. A flat blade screwdriver, or similar tool is placed between the tabs 18, and twisted, or rotated. This action initiates the required separation along the groove 11, and eliminates the need to start the cut by piercing with a knife. This method may be more desirable when using stiffer materials. Removal of these unneeded collar 10 sections reveals a beveled edge with a slightly reduced opening diameter. After installing the duct over the collar 10, it may be secured in this position by a strap, clamp, or other suitable means.
It is to be understood, that the above described operation may be performed in an order deemed most convenient to the particular situation.
This invention provides for an improved method of removing unwanted collar sections, with the knife blade guided along a straight line, lowering the chances of accidental injury, damage to the assembly, or significant weakening of the structure.
Although the description above contains many specifities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the preferred embodiments of this invention. For instance the diffuser box assembly can have other shapes such as circular, oval, rectangular etc.
