VENT ASSEMBLY FOR AIR-FLOW PORTAL OF BUILDING

Abstract

A vent assembly is configured to be mounted proximate to an air-flow portal defined by a surface of a wall of a building; this is done in such a way that the vent assembly presents outer surfaces that are exposable to exterior weather elements after the vent assembly is mounted proximate to the air-flow portal. An envelope assembly is configured to surround the outer surfaces of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is mounted proximate to the air-flow portal. The envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is configured to protect, at least in part, the outer surfaces of the vent assembly from undesirable exposure to the exterior weather elements.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document relates to the technical field of (and is not limited to): (A) a synergistic combination of a vent assembly and an envelope assembly (and/or a method associated therewith) for use with an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal (the air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and the exhaust tube is also configured to extend from the air-flow portal); and (B) a synergistic combination of the elements of a vent assembly (and/or a method associated therewith) for use with an envelope assembly and an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal; and (C) a synergistic combination of the elements of an envelope assembly (and/or a method associated therewith) for use with a vent assembly and an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal.

BACKGROUND

A vent assembly may be called a vent hood or an exhaust vent hood. The vent assembly is a covering configured to lead to a vent pipe or a tube (configured to exhaust an air-flow, such as hot air, smoke, fumes, etc.). The vent assembly may be mounted to a vertical wall of a building (such as a residential home, etc.).

SUMMARY

It will be appreciated that there exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) at least one problem associated with the existing vent assemblies (also called the existing technology). After much study of, and experimentation with, the existing vent assemblies, an understanding (at least in part) of the problem and its solution have been identified (at least in part) and are articulated (at least in part) as follows:

Existing vent assemblies are exposed to adverse weather elements that cause premature degradation of the existing vent assemblies. What might be needed is an apparatus configured to mitigate (at least in part) premature degradation of the existing vent assemblies. Other types of problems may be resolved with other technical features of the apparatus.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a first major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus is for (to be use with) an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The exhaust tube is also configured to extend from the air-flow portal.

The apparatus includes and is not limited to a synergistic combination of a vent assembly and an envelope assembly. The vent assembly is configured to be positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal (defined by the surface of the wall of the building); this is done in such a way that the vent assembly presents outer surfaces that are exposable (exposed) to exterior weather elements after the vent assembly is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal. The envelope assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly; this is done in such a way that the envelope assembly, in use, surrounds the outer surfaces of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal, and the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a second major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus is for (to be use with) an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The exhaust tube is also configured to extend from, and/or terminate at, the air-flow portal. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a synergistic combination of a vent assembly and an envelope assembly. The vent assembly includes an outer rear vent wall configured to be positioned proximate to (preferably the outer rear vent wall is configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal and the surface of the wall of the building. This is done in such a way that the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly faces the surface of the wall after the outer rear vent wall is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The envelope assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly; this is done in such a way that the envelope assembly (in use and/or after being installed) envelops (covers), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a third major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus is for (to be use with) an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The exhaust tube is also configured to extend from, and/or terminate at, the air-flow portal. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a synergistic combination of a vent assembly and an envelope assembly. The vent assembly includes outer vent walls. The vent assembly also includes a vent inlet portal configured to be in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal. This is done in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal after the vent assembly is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The vent assembly also includes an outer rear vent wall configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal and the surface of the wall of the building. This is done in such a way that the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly faces the surface of the wall after the outer rear vent wall is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The envelope assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to surround the outer vent walls of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal and the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to envelope (cover), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal and the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a fourth major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus is for (to be use with) an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The exhaust tube is also configured to extend from, and/or terminate at, the air-flow portal. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a synergistic combination of elements of a vent assembly. The vent assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The vent assembly includes outer side vent walls, an outer top vent wall, an outer front vent wall, an outer bottom vent wall and an outer rear vent wall. The vent assembly defines a vent inlet portal configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The vent inlet portal is configured to be in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The envelope assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to surround the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to envelope (cover), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a fifth major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus is for (to be use with) an exhaust tube and with a vent assembly. The exhaust tube is configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The vent assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The air-flow portal is defined by a surface of a wall of a building. The vent assembly includes outer side vent walls, an outer top vent wall, an outer front vent wall, an outer bottom vent wall and an outer rear vent wall. The vent assembly defines a vent inlet portal configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The vent inlet portal is configured to be in fluid communication with the air-flow portal. This is done in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a synergistic combination of elements of an envelope assembly. The envelope assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to surround the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly. The envelope assembly is also configured to envelope, at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

Other aspects are identified in the claims. Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments may now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings. This Summary is provided to introduce concepts in simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify potentially key features or possible essential features of the disclosed subject matter, and is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the disclosed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The figures and the description that follow more particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The non-limiting embodiments may be more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 depict perspective views of embodiments of an envelope assembly, a screen assembly and a vent assembly; and

FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 depict a perspective view (FIG. 4) and side views (FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) of embodiments of the envelope assembly, the screen assembly and the vent assembly of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 depict a perspective view (FIG. 8) and side views (FIG. 9 and FIG. 10) of embodiments of the envelope assembly, the screen assembly and the vent assembly of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 depict perspective views of embodiments of the envelope assembly, the screen assembly and the vent assembly of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 15, FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 depict perspective views of embodiments of the envelope assembly, the screen assembly and the vent assembly of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 18 depicts a cross-sectional view (taken along a cross sectional line A-A of FIG. 17) of an embodiment of the envelope assembly, the screen assembly and the vent assembly of FIG. 17.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, and well-understood, elements that are useful in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

• envelope assembly 102
• vent assembly 104
• interior vent zone 105
• screen assembly 106
• screen-engagement zone 107
• vent inlet portal 108
• engagement feature 110
• vent frame 111
• movable vent lid 112
• vent outlet portal 113
• hinge assembly 114
• biasing element 115
• magnetically-attractive lid element 116
• magnetically-attractive vent element 117
• outer vent walls (118, 120, 124, 125)
• outer front vent wall 118
• gasket assembly 119
• outer vent walls 120
• outer side vent walls 120
• mounting hole 121
• outer rear vent wall 122
• rear screen support 123
• outer bottom vent wall 124
• outer top vent wall 125
• sealing element 126
• top envelope wall 128
• side envelope wall 130
• front envelope wall 132
• rear envelope wall 134
• rear envelope portal 136
• envelope interior 137
• envelope outlet portal 138
• snap-fit connector 140
• snap-fit feature 142
• air-flow path 200
• surface 900
• building 901
• wall 902
• dry wall 904
• exhaust tube 906
• air-flow portal 907
• vapour barrier 908
• insulation layer 910
• board 912
• air barrier 914

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims. For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a”. The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. It should be understood that the disclosure is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims, and that the disclosure is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described. It will be appreciated that the scope of the meaning of a device configured to be coupled to an item (that is, to be connected to, to interact with the item, etc.) is to be interpreted as the device being configured to be coupled to the item, either directly or indirectly. Therefore, “configured to” may include the meaning “either directly or indirectly” unless specifically stated otherwise.

FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 depict perspective views of embodiments of an envelope assembly 102, a screen assembly 106 and a vent assembly 104. It will be appreciated that FIG. 3 depicts the internal geometries and/or formations of the envelope assembly 102 and the vent assembly 104 (for improved understanding thereof).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, it will be appreciated that the vent assembly 104 is hidden since the vent assembly 104 is positioned within (for the most part) the envelope assembly 102. The vent assembly 104 may be referred to as an exhaust vent hood assembly, vent hood assembly, vent hood, an exhaust vent hood, etc. The vent assembly 104 is configured to be fluidly coupled to an exhaust tube 906 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and/or FIG. 18). The exhaust tube 906 is configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal 907 (also called an exhaust portal, as depicted in FIG. 11 and/or FIG. 18). The air-flow portal 907 is defined by a surface 900 (such as an outer surface) of a wall 902 (such as a vertical wall) of a building 901 (such as, a residential home, etc.). The exhaust tube 906 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and/or FIG. 18) may be called a vent pipe, a tube, etc. The exhaust tube 906 is configured to exhaust an air-flow, such as hot air, smoke, fumes, etc. The vent assembly 104 is, preferably, configured to be mounted (affixed) to the wall 902 (such as a vertical wall, as depicted in FIG. 11 and/or FIG. 18). Referring back to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the envelope assembly 102 may be referred to as a cover assembly. The envelope assembly 102 is, preferably, configured to be installed to (connected to, supported by) the vent assembly 104. The envelope assembly 102 is configured to cover or envelop the vent assembly 104, thereby improving the protection of the vent assembly 104 from inadvertent damage thereby prolonging the life of the vent assembly 104. For the case where the envelope assembly 102 becomes worn out, the envelope assembly 102 may be replaced with a newer unit thereby reducing the possibility of having to replace the vent assembly 104. In accordance with an alternative or equivalent arrangement, the envelope assembly 102 may be configured to be installed to the surface 900 of the wall 902 (such as a vertical wall) of the building 901 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and/or FIG. 18, if so desired).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the envelope assembly 102 includes (preferably) a top envelope wall 128, side envelope walls 130 (also called spaced apart side envelope walls), a front envelope wall 132 and a rear envelope wall 134. The envelope assembly 102 defines an envelope interior 137. The envelope assembly 102 also defines an envelope outlet portal 138. The envelope outlet portal 138 is in fluid communication with the envelope interior 137. The envelope outlet portal 138 extends (preferably) between bottom sections of the side envelope walls 130, the front envelope wall 132 and the rear envelope wall 134. It will be appreciated that alternative or equivalent arrangements may be considered for the location and/or positioning of the envelope outlet portal 138. The rear envelope wall 134 defines a rear envelope portal 136 (positioned behind the envelope assembly 102 or in the rear section of the envelope assembly 102). The rear envelope portal 136 is in fluid communication with the envelope interior 137 of the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the envelope assembly 102 is configured to receive, at least in part, the screen assembly 106. The envelope assembly 102 is configured (preferably) to receive, at least in part, the screen assembly 106 at a lower section of the envelope assembly 102. The envelope assembly 102 is configured (preferably) to position and support, at least in part, the screen assembly 106 (after the envelope assembly 102 has received or supports, at least in part, the screen assembly 106). An air-flow path 200 (as depicted in FIG. 9, FIG. 10 and FIG. 18) extends through the screen assembly 106 (after the envelope assembly 102, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly 106, and after the envelope assembly 102 (in use or once installed) envelops or covers, at least in part, the vent assembly 104. Referring back to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the screen assembly 106 is configured (preferably) to prevent ingress of insects into an envelope interior 137 of the envelope assembly 102 after the envelope assembly 102, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly 106.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the screen assembly 106 is configured to prevent ingress of undesirable items (such as, insects, birds, pests, etc.) from entering the envelope assembly 102. The screen assembly 106 may include a meshed screen, etc. The screen assembly 106 may be mounted, or secured to, the envelope assembly 102 using fasteners from underneath the envelope assembly 102. Alternatively, the screen assembly 106 may slide in and out horizontally, and the screen assembly 106 may be retained via snap in clips, etc. The screen assembly 106 has (preferably) a peripheral frame defining an open space therein. A mesh material (made of a plastic material or a metal material) is mounted to the peripheral frame thereby covering the open space (formed therein) of the peripheral frame.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, the envelope assembly 102 may be made of an impact-resistant material, an impact-resistant plastic material, a plastic material, preferably made of a weatherproof plastic material, such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic material having an ultra-violet light resistant compound embedded therein, and/or any similar and/or any equivalent material thereof. The vent assembly 104 may be made of the same or similar material as that used in the envelope assembly 102. The envelope assembly 102 and the vent assembly 104 may be molded by an injection molding system, etc., and/or any equivalent thereof.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the envelope assembly 102 includes a screen-engagement zone 107 configured to slideably receive the screen assembly 106. The screen assembly 106 includes snap-fit connectors 140 (also called, screen connectors, tabs, clips, etc.), which are positioned (preferably) at spaced apart positions on the peripheral frame of the screen assembly 106. The envelope assembly 102 includes spaced apart snap-fit features 142 (as depicted in FIG. 4), which are positioned (preferably) on the side envelope walls 130 of the envelope assembly 102. The snap-fit connectors 140 (as depicted in FIG. 1) of the screen assembly 106 are configured to selectively interact (selectively connect) with a respective one of the snap-fit features 142 (as depicted in FIG. 4) of the envelope assembly 102 (that is, after the screen assembly 106 is moved into the interior of the envelope assembly 102, via the screen-engagement zone 107).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, the screen assembly 106 is removed from the interior of the envelope assembly 102. The vent assembly 104 is removed from the interior of the envelope assembly 102. The vent assembly 104 may include a vent frame 111 configured to support a top envelope wall 128, side envelope walls 130 and a front envelope wall 132, etc. The vent assembly 104 includes an outer front vent wall 118 (also called a front vent wall, outer-facing front vent wall, a front-facing vent wall, a front-facing side, etc.).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 3, the envelope assembly 102 includes a top envelope wall 128 (also called a top cover wall), side envelope walls 130 (also called a side cover wall), a front envelope wall 132 (also called a front cover wall), and a rear envelope wall 134 (also called a rear cover wall). The side envelope walls 130 are spaced apart from each other. The front envelope wall 132 is spaced apart from the rear envelope wall 134. The envelope assembly 102 defines a rear envelope portal 136 (also called a rear cover portal), an envelope interior 137 (also called a cover interior), and an envelope outlet portal 138 (also called a cover outlet portal). The rear envelope portal 136 is (at least in part) in fluid communication with the envelope interior 137. The envelope outlet portal 138 is (at least in part) in fluid communication with the envelope interior 137. The rear envelope portal 136 is formed (preferably) on the rear envelope wall 134. The envelope outlet portal 138 is formed (preferably) between the lower sections of the side envelope walls 130, the front envelope wall 132 and the rear envelope wall 134.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 3, the envelope assembly 102 is configured to be installed to the vent assembly 104. The vent assembly 104 is configured to support the envelope assembly 102 after the envelope assembly 102 is installed to the vent assembly 104. It will be appreciated that the envelope assembly 102 is also configured to be replaced after the envelope assembly 102, in use, breaks down in response to prolonged exposure of the envelope assembly 102 to the exterior weather elements. The vent assembly 104 defines an interior vent zone 105 (also called a vent interior).

FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 depict a perspective view (FIG. 4) and side views (FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) of embodiments of the envelope assembly 102, the screen assembly 106 and the vent assembly 104 of FIG. 2. It will be appreciated that FIG. 4 depicts the internal geometries and/or formations of the envelope assembly 102 (for improved understanding thereof).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 5, the vent assembly 104 is inserted into the envelope assembly 102. The vent assembly 104 includes a vent inlet portal 108 (also called a connection unit, etc.). The vent inlet portal 108 is configured to be inserted into the exhaust tube 906 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and FIG. 18).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 5, the envelope assembly 102 includes the top envelope wall 128, which may be sloped or flat, etc. After the vent assembly 104 is connected or installed (as depicted in FIG. 18), the exterior surfaces of the vent assembly 104 are exposed to the elements of the outdoor environment. The envelope assembly 102 is configured to cover exterior surfaces of the vent assembly 104 from the elements of the outdoor environment (thereby preventing, at least in part, or reducing the exposure of exterior surfaces of the vent assembly 104 to the elements of the outdoor environment). Without the envelope assembly 102, the exterior surfaces of the vent assembly 104 would become exposed to the elements of the outdoor environment (after the vent assembly 104 is connected or installed, as depicted in FIG. 18), and on this basis, the vent assembly 104 may degrade with continued exposure to the elements of the outdoor environment (such as rain, snow, sunlight, etc.). The envelope assembly 102 protects (at least in part) the vent assembly 104 from the elements of the outdoor environment.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the outer front vent wall 118 forms (provides), preferably, a baffle element (also called a baffle, baffle plate, an angled plate, etc.) that is angled relative to the outer rear vent wall 122.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the hinge assembly 114 is (preferably) configured to pivotally attach the movable vent lid 112 to the vent assembly 104. This is done in such a way that the hinge assembly 114 permits pivotal movement of the movable vent lid 112 so that the movable vent lid 112 faces the outer rear vent wall 122 in response to any air-flow that pushes the movable vent lid 112 into an open condition thereby uncovering the vent outlet portal 113.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the movable vent lid 112 is also configured to selectively uncover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to air-flow moving (flowing) along the air-flow path 200. The movable vent lid 112 is also configured to selectively cover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to a lack of (or any) air-flow along the air-flow path 200.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the movable vent lid 112 is configured to interact with a biasing element 115 (such as a spring element, a magnetic element, etc., and/or any similar or equivalent thereof. The biasing element 115 is configured to permit (urge) the movable vent lid 112 to selectively cover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to a lack of (any) air-flow along the air-flow path 200. The biasing element 115 is also configured to urge the movable vent lid 112 to selectively uncover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to a lack of air-flow along the air-flow path 200.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the movable vent lid 112 includes (supports) a magnetically-attractive lid element 116. The vent assembly 104 includes (supports) a magnetically-attractive vent element 117 configured to magnetically interact with the magnetically-attractive lid element 116. The magnetically-attractive lid element 116 and the magnetically-attractive vent element 117 magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid 112 to selectively cover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to a lack of air-flow along the air-flow path 200. The magnetically-attractive lid element 116 and the magnetically-attractive vent element 117 cannot magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid 112 to selectively cover the vent outlet portal 113, thereby permitting free movement of the movable vent lid 112 away from the vent outlet portal 113 in response to air-flow moving (flowing) along the air-flow path 200.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the outer front vent wall 118 is sloped at an acute angle thereby presenting an angled baffle surface configured to deflect the air-flow toward the movable vent lid 112 so that the movable vent lid 112, in use, moves to permit the air-flow to exit the vent assembly 104. The outer front vent wall 118 is sloped at an acute angle thereby presenting an angled baffle surface configured to deflect the air-flow toward the movable vent lid 112 (as indicated in the air-flow path 200). The outer front vent wall 118 is (preferably) sloped at an acute angle, thereby presenting an angled baffle surface configured to deflect the air-flow toward the movable vent lid 112. The outer bottom vent wall 124 is narrower than the outer top vent wall 125.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the vent inlet portal 108 (of the vent assembly 104) is configured to pass through the rear envelope portal 136 (as depicted in FIG. 4). The screen assembly 106 has been removed from the vent assembly 104 (as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) in sharp contrast to the case, as depicted in FIG. 5, in which the screen assembly 106 is inserted into the vent assembly 104. The vent outlet portal 113 (as depicted in FIG. 7) is formed once the movable vent lid 112 is moved to the open position in response to the movable vent lid 112 being urged to move by the air-flow moving along the air-flow path 200 striking the movable vent lid 112.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, when air is made to flow (along the air-flow path 200) into the entrance of the vent assembly 104, air pressure builds up in the vent assembly 104, thereby lifting the movable vent lid 112 so that the movable vent lid 112 moves from a closed condition (during the no air-flow condition or an absence or a lack of air-flow, as depicted in FIG. 6) to an open condition (during the air-flow condition, as depicted in FIG. 7). When air stops flowing through the vent assembly 104, the movable vent lid 112 moves (under gravity) to close shut. Preferably, a gasket assembly 119 is mounted to the outer peripheral edge of the movable vent lid 112. The gasket assembly 119 and the magnetically-attractive lid element 116 cooperate to form (create) an air-seal for the vent outlet portal 113 formed or located adjacent to the movable vent lid 112; this is done such that unwanted heat loss from the movable vent lid 112 may be further reduced after the air-flow through the vent assembly 104 has stopped (and the movable vent lid 112 may return to the closed condition under the no air-flow (a lack of air-flow) condition, as depicted in FIG. 6). It will be appreciated that metal plates may be installed to the vent assembly 104 that are positioned in line with the magnets when the movable vent lid 112 is in the closed condition.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the vent assembly 104 further includes the movable vent lid 112 configured to selectively cover and uncover the vent outlet portal 113 in response to the presence or absence of any air-flow through the vent assembly 104. The movable vent lid 112 includes the gasket assembly 119 configured to form an air-seal for a vent outlet portal 113 located adjacent to the movable vent lid 112; this is done such that unwanted heat loss from the movable vent lid 112 is reduced (at least in part) after the air-flow through the vent assembly 104 has stopped and the movable vent lid 112, in use, returns to a closed condition under the no air-flow condition (a lack of air-flow).

FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 depict a perspective view (FIG. 8) and side views (FIG. 9 and FIG. 10) of embodiments of the envelope assembly 102, the screen assembly 106 and the vent assembly 104 of FIG. 2. For FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, it will be appreciated that the screen assembly 106 has been removed from the envelope assembly 102 (for improved explanation or viewing of the air-flow path 200). For FIG. 10, it will be appreciated that the movable vent lid 112 is removed (for improved explanation or viewing of the air-flow path 200).

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the vent assembly 104 includes outer vent walls (118, 120, 124, 125). The outer vent walls (118, 120, 124, 125) may be referred to as the peripheral walls, outer-facing walls, weather-exposed walls, etc., and any equivalent thereof. The vent assembly 104 also includes the vent inlet portal 108 configured to be in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal 907 (the vent inlet portal 108 is also depicted in FIG. 18); this is done in such a way that the vent inlet portal 108 is, at least in part, in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 18) after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907. Returning back to FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the vent assembly 104 also includes the outer rear vent wall 122 configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) (A) the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and FIG. 18), and (B) the surface 900 (of the wall 902 of the building 901); this is done in such a way that the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104 faces the surface 900 (as depicted in FIG. 18) of the wall 902 after the outer rear vent wall 122 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 18).

Referring to FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 is also configured to surround the outer vent walls (118, 120, 124, 125) of the vent assembly 104 (after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104). The envelope assembly 102 is also configured to envelope (cover), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104 (after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104). The envelope assembly 102 is configured (preferably) to reduce, at least in part, the impact of exterior (adverse) weather elements to the outer vent walls (118, 120, 124, 125) of the vent assembly 104 (as depicted in FIG. 18). Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 is also configured (preferably) to hinder, at least in part, premature weather-related breakdown of the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. It will be appreciated that the useful lifespan (lifecycle) of the vent assembly 104 is extended (at least in part) by the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 8, the outer rear vent wall 122 defines (provides) a mounting hole 121 (preferably, a pair of spaced-apart mounting holes). The outer rear vent wall 122 provides a rear screen support 123 (also called a screen engagement, screen support, etc.).

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 is configured to divert (deflect or direct) the exhausted air (moving along the air-flow path 200) from the vent assembly 104 so that the air-flow moves up toward the top envelope wall 128 (of the envelope assembly 102), past the movable vent lid 112 (which moves) over the top section of the vent assembly 104, and then the air-flow moves down along the side envelope walls 130 (of the envelope assembly 102) within the interior of the envelope assembly 102. The envelope assembly 102 is configured to mitigate (preferably prevent) condensation build-up within the interior of the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the vent assembly 104 is configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 11 and FIG. 18) defined by the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901. Referring to FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the vent assembly 104 includes outer side vent walls 120, an outer top vent wall 125, an outer front vent wall 118, an outer bottom vent wall 124 and an outer rear vent wall 122. The vent assembly 104 defines a vent inlet portal 108 configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 18). The vent inlet portal 108 is configured to be in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal 907; this is done in such a way that the vent inlet portal 108 is, at least in part, in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal 907 after the vent inlet portal 108 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907. The envelope assembly 102 is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. The envelope assembly 102 is also configured (preferably) to surround the outer side vent walls 120, the outer top vent wall 125, the outer front vent wall 118 and the outer bottom vent wall 124 of the vent assembly 104 after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. The envelope assembly 102 is also configured to envelope (cover and/or shield), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104 (after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the interior vent zone 105 of the vent assembly 104 is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube 906 (as depicted in FIG. 18), that is, after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to, and surrounds (at least in part), the vent assembly 104.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the vent assembly 104 also defines the interior vent zone 105. The interior vent zone 105 is in fluid communication with the vent inlet portal 108. The vent assembly 104 also defines a vent outlet portal 113, and the vent outlet portal 113 is in fluid communication with the interior vent zone 105. The vent inlet portal 108 of the vent assembly 104 is configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 18); this is done in such a way that the interior vent zone 105 of the vent assembly 104 is, at least in part, in fluid communication (in a close fluid communication) with the air-flow portal 907 after the vent inlet portal 108 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 also defines an envelope outlet portal 138. The envelope outlet portal 138 is located (preferably) at the bottom section of the envelope assembly 102. The air-flow path 200 (preferably) extends (at least in part) between the outer side vent walls 120 of the vent assembly and the side envelope walls 130 of the envelope assembly 102. The air-flow path 200 extends through the vent assembly 104 and into the envelope assembly 102 and then out from the envelope outlet portal 138 after the envelope assembly 102 (in use) envelops (covers), at least in part, the vent assembly 104, and the vent inlet portal 108 of the vent assembly 104 is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube 906. The air-flow (flowing along the air-flow path 200) flows from the air-flow portal 907 to the envelope outlet portal 138 of the envelope assembly 102. A technical effect of the air-flow path 200 is that the air-flow (flowing along the air-flow path 200) may evenly transmit heat to the walls of the envelope assembly 102, thereby melting any accumulated snow build up on the top envelope wall 128 of the envelop assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the envelope assembly 102 also defines the envelope outlet portal 138. The air-flow path 200 extends (preferably): (A) from the air-flow portal 907 into the vent inlet portal 108, (B) through an interior vent zone 105 of the vent assembly 104, (C) through the vent outlet portal 113 of the vent assembly 104, (D) into an envelope interior 137 of the envelope assembly 102, (E) through the envelope interior 137 of the envelope assembly 102, and (F) out from the envelope outlet portal 138 of the envelope assembly 102 (after the envelope assembly 102 (in use) envelops (covers), at least in part, the vent assembly 104, and the vent inlet portal 108 of the vent assembly 104 is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube 906). The air-flow (flowing along the air-flow path 200) flows from the air-flow portal 907 to the envelope outlet portal 138 of the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the air-flow path 200 extends through the vent assembly 104. The vent assembly 104 also defines the vent outlet portal 113. The vent outlet portal 113 is in fluid communication with an interior vent zone 105 of the vent assembly 104. The vent assembly 104 includes a movable vent lid 112 (as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) configured to selectively cover and uncover the vent outlet portal 113 (in response to the presence or absence of air-flow that flows through the vent assembly 104).

FIG. 11 to FIG. 17 depict perspective views of embodiments of the envelope assembly 102, the screen assembly 106 and the vent assembly 104 of FIG. 2. The installation steps (method) are depicted in FIG. 11 to FIG. 17.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 11, the vent assembly 104 is positioned and installed to (inserted, at least in part, into) the air-flow portal 907.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 12, connectors (such as, screws, bolts, etc. and any equivalent thereof) are inserted into the mounting holes 121 formed in (through) the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104. The connectors are configured to connect (affix) the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104 to the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 13, the envelope assembly 102 is positioned (installed) in such a way that the vent assembly 104 is covered by the envelope assembly 102 (after the vent assembly 104 is installed to the air-flow portal 907.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 14, the envelope assembly 102 covers the vent assembly 104; this is done in such a way that the envelope assembly 102 protects the vent assembly 104 from inadvertent damage, such as due to adverse weather elements, etc.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 15, the screen assembly 106 is positioned next to the envelope assembly 102 (preferably, at the lower section of the envelope assembly 102).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 16, the screen assembly 106 is installed to (inserted into) the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 17, a sealing element 126 is installed (preferably) to the outer peripheral edges of the envelope assembly 102, between the edges of the envelope assembly 102 and the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901, to further protect or shield (at least in part) the interior of the envelope assembly 102 from exposure to adverse weather elements (rain, snow, etc.).

FIG. 18 depicts a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the envelope assembly 102, the screen assembly 106 and the vent assembly 104 of FIG. 17. The view of FIG. 18 is taken along a cross sectional line A-A of FIG. 17.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the vent assembly 104 is configured to be positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal 907; the air-flow portal 907 is defined by the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901. The exhaust tube 906 is configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, the air-flow portal 907. The exhaust tube 906 is also configured to extend from the air-flow portal 907. The vent assembly 104 is configured to be positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal 907; this is done in such a way that the vent assembly 104 presents outer surfaces that are (potentially) exposable to exterior weather elements (such as, sunshine 800, rain, snow 802, etc., and/or any equivalent or similar weather element that may cause premature degradation of the outer surfaces of the vent assembly 104) after the vent assembly 104 is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal 907. The envelope assembly 102 is configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104; this is done in such a way that the envelope assembly 102, in use, surrounds the outer surfaces of the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal 907 and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. The technical effect of the above arrangement is that the envelope assembly 102 protects, at least in part, the outer surfaces of the vent assembly 104 are protected (shielded and not potentially exposable) from the exterior weather elements (such as, sunshine, rain, snow, etc., or any other elements that may cause premature degradation of the outer surfaces of the vent assembly 104) after the vent assembly 104 is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal 907, and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the vent assembly 104 includes the outer rear vent wall 122 (as depicted in FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 11 and FIG. 18) configured to be positioned proximate to (configured to be in a close spatial relationship with) the air-flow portal 907 and the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901; this is done in such a way that the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104 faces the surface 900 of the wall 902 after the outer rear vent wall 122 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 11). The exhaust tube 906 is configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, the air-flow portal 907 (as depicted in FIG. 11). Returning to FIG. 18, the envelope assembly 102 is configured (preferably) to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104; this is done in such a way that the envelope assembly 102 (in use) envelops (covers), at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104. The envelope assembly 102 is also configured to reduce (mitigate), at least in part, the impact (negative impact) of exterior weather elements to the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907, and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. The envelope assembly 102 is also configured to hinder, at least in part, premature weather-related breakdown of the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907, and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. A technical effect of the envelope assembly 102 is that the envelope assembly 102 (in use) extends (at least in part) the useful lifespan (lifecycle) of the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907, and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 18, the envelope assembly 102 includes (preferably) the rear envelope wall 134 (as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 10). The rear envelope wall 134 is configured to be positioned, at least in part, between: (A) a section of the outer rear vent wall 122 (of the vent assembly 104), and (B) the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901 after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. A technical effect of this arrangement is that the outer edges of the rear envelope wall 134 add, at least in part, protection to the outer rear vent wall 122.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, in accordance with an embodiment (not depicted and would be understood by persons skilled in the art), the rear envelope wall 134 is configured to be positioned, at least in part, in front of a rear surface of the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104, with the rear surface of the rear envelope wall 134 positioned proximate to, and facing (or placed in contact with) the surface 900 of the wall 902 (of the building 901) after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. The rear envelope wall 134 is configured to be connectable with the rear surface of the outer rear vent wall 122 of the vent assembly 104. It will be appreciated that this arrangement is considered to be an equivalent of the arrangement in which the rear envelope wall 134 is configured to be positioned, at least in part, between: (A) a section of the outer rear vent wall 122 (of the vent assembly 104), and (B) the surface 900 of the wall 902 of the building 901 after the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the envelope assembly 102 is configured to reduce, at least in part, the impact of exterior weather elements to the outer side vent walls 120, the outer top vent wall 125, the outer front vent wall 118 and the outer bottom vent wall 124 (these vent walls are clearly identified in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10). The envelope assembly 102 is also configured to hinder, at least in part, premature weather-related breakdown of the vent assembly 104 after the vent assembly 104 is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal 907, and the envelope assembly 102 is positioned proximate to the vent assembly 104. A technical effect of the envelope assembly 102 of this arrangement is that the useful lifespan (lifecycle) of the vent assembly 104 is extended (at least in part) by the envelope assembly 102.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the envelope assembly 102 is also configured to be replaced (replaceable) after the envelope assembly 102, in use, breaks down (degrades) in response to prolonged exposure of the envelope assembly 102 to the exterior weather elements. A technical effect of this arrangement is that it is easier to replace the envelope assembly 102 than it is to replace the vent assembly 104 (and/or less costly to replace the envelope assembly 102 than the vent assembly 104).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the vent inlet portal 108 (of the vent assembly 104) is configured to be received, at least in part, within the air-flow portal 907 (and into, at least in part, the interior of the exhaust tube 906); this is done in such a way that the vent inlet portal 108 is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal 907 after the vent inlet portal 108 (of the vent assembly 104) is received, at least in part, within the air-flow portal 907.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the vent assembly 104 is configured (preferably) to be fixedly attached to the surface 900 (by suitable connectors, such as screws or bolts, etc.) of the wall 902 of the building 901 after the vent inlet portal 108 is positioned proximate to, and is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal 907.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18, the wall 902 may include known components, such as a vapour barrier 908, an insulation layer 910, a board 912 (oriented strand board) and air barrier 914, etc., and they are therefore not further described with any further details.

The following is offered as further description of the embodiments, in which any one or more of any technical feature (described in the detailed description, the summary and the claims) may be combinable with any other one or more of any technical feature (described in the detailed description, the summary and the claims). It is understood that each claim in the claims section is an open ended claim unless stated otherwise. Unless otherwise specified, relational terms used in these specifications should be construed to include certain tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality. By way of example, the term perpendicular is not necessarily limited to 90.0 degrees, and may include a variation thereof that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality for the purposes described for the relevant member or element. Terms such as “about” and “substantially”, in the context of configuration, relate generally to disposition, location, or configuration that are either exact or sufficiently close to the location, disposition, or configuration of the relevant element to preserve operability of the element within the disclosure which does not materially modify the disclosure. Similarly, unless specifically made clear from its context, numerical values should be construed to include certain tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as having negligible importance as they do not materially change the operability of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that the description and/or drawings identify and describe embodiments of the apparatus (either explicitly or inherently). The apparatus may include any suitable combination and/or permutation of the technical features as identified in the detailed description, as may be required and/or desired to suit a particular technical purpose and/or technical function. It will be appreciated that, where possible and suitable, any one or more of the technical features of the apparatus may be combined with any other one or more of the technical features of the apparatus (in any combination and/or permutation). It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that the technical features of each embodiment may be deployed (where possible) in other embodiments even if not expressly stated as such above. It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that other options may be possible for the configuration of the components of the apparatus to adjust to manufacturing requirements and still remain within the scope as described in at least one or more of the claims. This written description provides embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables the person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The patentable scope may be defined by the claims. The written description and/or drawings may help to understand the scope of the claims. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood, for this document, that the word “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising” in that both words are used to signify an open-ended listing of assemblies, components, parts, etc. The term “comprising”, which is synonymous with the terms “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. Comprising (comprised of) is an “open” phrase and allows coverage of technologies that employ additional, unrecited elements. When used in a claim, the word “comprising” is the transitory verb (transitional term) that separates the preamble of the claim from the technical features of the disclosure. The foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.

Claims

1. An apparatus for use with an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal, the air-flow portal being defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and the exhaust tube also being configured to extend from the air-flow portal, the apparatus comprising:

a vent assembly being configured to be positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal being defined by the surface of the wall of the building in such a way that the vent assembly presents outer surfaces being exposable to exterior weather elements after the vent assembly is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal; and

an envelope assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly in such a way that the envelope assembly, in use, surrounds the outer surfaces of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is positioned and mounted proximate to the air-flow portal, and the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

2. An apparatus for use with an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal, the air-flow portal being defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and the exhaust tube also being configured to extend from the air-flow portal, the apparatus comprising:

a vent assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal being defined by the surface of the wall of the building; and

the vent assembly including outer side vent walls; and an outer top vent wall; and an outer front vent wall; and an outer bottom vent wall; and an outer rear vent wall; and

the vent assembly defines a vent inlet portal configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

the vent inlet portal being configured to be in fluid communication with the air-flow portal in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

an envelope assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

the envelope assembly also being configured to surround the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

the envelope assembly also being configured to envelope, at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the envelope assembly is configured to be installed to the vent assembly; and

the vent assembly is configured to support the envelope assembly after the envelope assembly is installed to the vent assembly.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the envelope assembly is configured to reduce, at least in part, negative impact of exterior weather elements to the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall; and

the envelope assembly is also configured to hinder, at least in part, premature weather-related breakdown of the vent assembly after the vent assembly is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal, and the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

whereby a useful lifespan of the vent assembly is extended, at least in part, by the envelope assembly.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the envelope assembly includes: a top envelope wall; and side envelope walls; and a front envelope wall; and a rear envelope wall; and

the envelope assembly defines an envelope interior; and

the envelope assembly also defines an envelope outlet portal, and the envelope outlet portal is in fluid communication with the envelope interior; and

the envelope outlet portal extends between bottom sections of the side envelope walls, the front envelope wall and the rear envelope wall; and

the rear envelope wall defines a rear envelope portal, and the rear envelope portal is in fluid communication with the envelope interior.

6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the envelope assembly includes a rear envelope wall; and

the rear envelope wall is configured to be positioned, at least in part, between: said section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly; and the surface of the wall of the building after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

7. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the envelope assembly is also configured to be replaced after the envelope assembly, in use, breaks down in response to prolonged exposure of the envelope assembly to exterior weather elements.

8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the vent assembly also defines an interior vent zone; and

the vent assembly also defines a vent outlet portal; and

the vent inlet portal is in fluid communication with the interior vent zone; and

the vent outlet portal is in fluid communication with the interior vent zone; and

the vent assembly further includes a movable vent lid configured to selectively cover and uncover the vent outlet portal in response to presence or absence of any air-flow through the vent assembly; and

the movable vent lid includes a gasket assembly configured to form an air-seal for the vent outlet portal located adjacent to the movable vent lid, so that unwanted heat loss from the movable vent lid is reduced, at least in part, after air-flow through the vent assembly has stopped, and the movable vent lid, in use, returns to a closed condition under a lack of air-flow.

9. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the vent assembly also defines an interior vent zone, and the interior vent zone is in fluid communication with the vent inlet portal; and

the vent assembly also defines a vent outlet portal, and the vent outlet portal is in fluid communication with the interior vent zone; and

the vent inlet portal of the vent assembly is configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal in such a way that the interior vent zone of the vent assembly is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

the interior vent zone of the vent assembly is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to, and surrounds, at least in part, the vent assembly.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

the envelope assembly also defines an envelope outlet portal; and

an air-flow path extends through the vent assembly and into the envelope assembly and then out from the envelope outlet portal after the envelope assembly, in use, envelops, at least in part, the vent assembly, and the vent inlet portal of the vent assembly is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube; and

whereby air-flow, which is made to flow along the air-flow path, flows from the air-flow portal to the envelope outlet portal of the envelope assembly.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

the envelope assembly also defines an envelope outlet portal; and

an air-flow path extends: from the air-flow portal into the vent inlet portal, through the interior vent zone of the vent assembly, through the vent outlet portal of the vent assembly, into an envelope interior of the envelope assembly, through the envelope interior of the envelope assembly, and out from the envelope outlet portal of the envelope assembly, after the envelope assembly, in use, envelops, at least in part, the vent assembly, and the vent inlet portal of the vent assembly is in fluid communication with the exhaust tube; and whereby air-flow, which is made to flow along the air-flow path, flows from the air-flow portal to the envelope outlet portal of the envelope assembly.

13. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

an air-flow path extends through the vent assembly; and

the vent assembly also defines a vent outlet portal, and the vent outlet portal is in fluid communication with an interior vent zone of the vent assembly; and

the vent assembly further includes a movable vent lid configured to selectively cover and uncover the vent outlet portal in response to presence or absence of any air-flow through the vent assembly.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the vent assembly further includes a hinge assembly; and

the hinge assembly is configured to pivotally attach the movable vent lid to the vent assembly.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the vent assembly further includes a hinge assembly is configured to pivotally attach the movable vent lid to the vent assembly in such a way that the hinge assembly permits pivotal movement of the movable vent lid so that the movable vent lid faces the outer rear vent wall in response to air-flow pushing the movable vent lid into an open condition thereby uncovering the vent outlet portal.

16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the movable vent lid is also configured to selectively uncover the vent outlet portal in response to air-flow moving along the air-flow path; and

the movable vent lid is also configured to selectively cover the vent outlet portal in response to a lack of air-flow along the air-flow path.

17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the movable vent lid is configured to interact with a biasing element; and

the biasing element is configured to urge the movable vent lid to selectively cover the vent outlet portal in response to a lack of air-flow moving along the air-flow path.

18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the movable vent lid is configured to interact with a biasing element; and

the biasing element is also configured to urge the movable vent lid to selectively uncover the vent outlet portal in response to a lack of air-flow moving along the air-flow path.

19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the movable vent lid includes a magnetically-attractive lid element; and

the vent assembly includes a magnetically-attractive vent element configured to magnetically interact with the magnetically-attractive lid element; and

the magnetically-attractive lid element and the magnetically-attractive vent element magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid to selectively cover the vent outlet portal in response to a lack of air-flow moving along the air-flow path; and

the magnetically-attractive lid element and the magnetically-attractive vent element cannot magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid to selectively cover the vent outlet portal thereby permitting free movement of the movable vent lid away from the vent outlet portal in response to air-flow moving along the air-flow path.

20. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the envelope assembly is also configured to position and support, at least in part, a screen assembly so that the air-flow path extends through the screen assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, envelops, at least in part, the vent assembly; and

the screen assembly is also configured to prevent ingress of insects into an envelope interior of the envelope assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly.

21. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the outer front vent wall is sloped at an acute angle thereby presenting an angled baffle surface configured to deflect air-flow toward the movable vent lid so that the movable vent lid, in use, moves to permit the air-flow to exit the vent assembly.

22. An apparatus for use with an exhaust tube and with an envelope assembly, and the exhaust tube being configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal, and the air-flow portal being defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and the exhaust tube also being configured to extend from the air-flow portal, the apparatus comprising:

a vent assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal being defined by the surface of the wall of the building; and

the vent assembly including outer side vent walls; and an outer top vent wall; and an outer front vent wall; and an outer bottom vent wall; and an outer rear vent wall; and

the vent assembly defines a vent inlet portal configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

the vent inlet portal being configured to be in fluid communication with the air-flow portal in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

the vent assembly also being configured to be positioned proximate to the envelope assembly; and

the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall of the vent assembly being configured to be surrounded by the envelope assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly being configured to be enveloped, at least in part, by the envelope assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

23. An apparatus for use with an exhaust tube and with a vent assembly, and the exhaust tube being configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal, the air-flow portal being defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and the vent assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal being defined by the surface of the wall of the building, and the exhaust tube also being configured to extend from the air-flow portal, and the vent assembly including outer side vent walls, an outer top vent wall, an outer front vent wall, an outer bottom vent wall and an outer rear vent wall, and the vent assembly defining a vent inlet portal being configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal, and the vent inlet portal being configured to be in fluid communication with the air-flow portal in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal, and the apparatus comprising:

an envelope assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

the envelope assembly also being configured to surround the outer side vent walls, the outer top vent wall, the outer front vent wall and the outer bottom vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

the envelope assembly also being configured to envelope, at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly.

24. An apparatus for an exhaust tube configured to be positioned proximate to, and to be in fluid communication with, an air-flow portal, and the air-flow portal being defined by a surface of a wall of a building, and an exhaust tube being configured to extend from, and/or terminate at, the air-flow portal, the apparatus comprising:

a vent assembly; and

an envelope assembly; and

the vent assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal being defined by the surface of the wall of the building; and

the vent assembly defines a vent inlet portal configured to be positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

the vent inlet portal being configured to be in fluid communication with the air-flow portal in such a way that the vent inlet portal is, at least in part, in fluid communication with the air-flow portal after the vent inlet portal is positioned proximate to the air-flow portal; and

the envelope assembly being configured to be positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

the envelope assembly also being configured to surround the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and wherein:

the vent assembly includes outer side vent walls; and an outer top vent wall; and an outer front vent wall; and an outer bottom vent wall; and an outer rear vent wall; and

the envelope assembly is also configured to envelope, at least in part, a section of the outer rear vent wall of the vent assembly after the envelope assembly is positioned proximate to the vent assembly; and

an air-flow path extends through the vent assembly; and

the vent assembly also defines a vent outlet portal, and the vent outlet portal is in fluid communication with an interior vent zone of the vent assembly; and

wherein the vent assembly further includes a movable vent lid configured to selectively cover and uncover the vent outlet portal in response to presence or absence of any air-flow moving through the vent assembly; and

wherein the vent assembly further includes a hinge assembly configured to pivotally attach the movable vent lid to the vent assembly in such a way that the hinge assembly permits pivotal movement of the movable vent lid so that the movable vent lid faces the outer rear vent wall in response to the air-flow that pushes the movable vent lid to an open condition thereby uncovering the vent outlet portal; and

the movable vent lid is also configured to selectively uncover the vent outlet portal in response to the air-flow moving along the air-flow path; and

the movable vent lid is also configured to selectively cover the vent outlet portal in response to a lack of air-flow along the air-flow path; and

the movable vent lid includes a magnetically-attractive lid element; and

the vent assembly further includes a magnetically-attractive vent element configured to magnetically interact with the magnetically-attractive lid element; and

the magnetically-attractive lid element and the magnetically-attractive vent element magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid to selectively cover the vent outlet portal in response to the lack of air-flow along the air-flow path; and

the magnetically-attractive lid element and the magnetically-attractive vent element cannot magnetically interact with each other to urge the movable vent lid to selectively cover the vent outlet portal thereby permitting free movement of the movable vent lid away from the vent outlet portal in response to the air-flow moving along the air-flow path; and

the movable vent lid includes a gasket assembly configured to form an air-seal for the vent outlet portal located adjacent to the movable vent lid so that unwanted heat loss from the movable vent lid is reduced, at least in part, after the air-flow through the vent assembly has stopped, and the movable vent lid, in use, returns to a closed condition under the lack of air-flow; and

the envelope assembly is configured to position and support, at least in part, a screen assembly so that the air-flow path extends through the screen assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, envelops, at least in part, the vent assembly; and

the screen assembly is configured to prevent ingress of insects into an envelope interior of the envelope assembly after the envelope assembly, in use, positions and supports, at least in part, the screen assembly; and

the outer front vent wall is sloped at an acute angle thereby presenting an angled baffle surface configured to deflect the air-flow toward the movable vent lid so that the movable vent lid, in use, moves to permit the air-flow to exit the vent assembly.