Abstract: An apparatus and method for converting a fixed-opening air diffuser (21) to an individually-controlled variable air volume diffuser. The fixed-opening diffuser (21) includes a diffuser housing (26) mounted to a support structure (25) and coupled to receive air from a supply conduit (24) positioned behind the support structure (25) and a diffusion assembly (27) mounted across the housing (26) to distribute the air from the housing (26). The method includes the steps of removing the diffusion assembly (27) from a position across the diffuser housing (26) to provide access to the housing, mounting a thermally-powered diffuser actuator assembly (31) having a movable vane (32) coupled to actuator assembly (31) inside the diffuser housing (26) in a position for control of air discharged from the diffuser housing (26) by thermally-driven displacement of the vane (32).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for converting a fixed-opening air diffuser (21) to an individually-controlled variable air volume diffuser. The fixed-opening diffuser (21) includes a diffuser housing (26) mounted to a support structure (25) and coupled to receive air from a supply conduit (24) positioned behind the support structure (25) and a diffusion assembly (27) mounted across the housing (26) to distribute the air from the housing (26). The method includes the steps of removing the diffusion assembly (27) from a position across the diffuser housing (26) to provide access to the housing, mounting a thermally-powered diffuser actuator assembly (31) having a movable vane (32) coupled to actuator assembly (31) inside the diffuser housing (26) in a position for control of air discharged from the diffuser housing (26) by thermally-driven displacement of the vane (32).