Low-Profile Window-Mountable Climate Control Systems Comprising AC-Heating Units, Mount Frames, and Modular Seals and Methods of Installing Such Systems
A low-profile window-mountable air conditioning-heating system, described herein, includes an air conditioning-heating unit formed by interior and exterior housings and interconnected by a bridge housing that encloses flexible fluid lines and sliding bridge rails. The system also includes a mounting frame that supports the unit across a building wall and enables pivoting and extension to simplify installation and accommodate different wall thicknesses. The system further includes a window-frame seal configured to seal between the bridge housing and a window frame. The seal may include a channel insert, a first sealing unit, and a second sealing unit configured to transfer load into a lower channel of the window frame, accommodate different window geometries, and maintain a low position within the window opening. Some of these components may be foldable, cuttable to size, and configured with drain openings to direct water into the window frame for discharge through weep holes.
This application is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application 19/273,465 filed 2025-07-18, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of US Provisional Patent Application 63/673,568, filed 2024-07-19, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
FIELD OF TECHNOLOGYThis disclosure generally relates to air conditioning-heating systems and more specifically to low-profile window-mountable air conditioning-heating units supported using mounting frames and sealed with window-frame seals.
BACKGROUNDConventional window-mountable air conditioning systems often rely on rigid, unitary designs that require significant manual effort to install, particularly when accommodating wall thicknesses, uneven sill geometries, or wide window frames. These systems typically include accordion-style vinyl side curtains to close the gap between the unit and the window opening. However, such seals provide minimal thermal insulation, poor weatherproofing, and limited adaptability to different window configurations. Moreover, such seals are prone to deformation, degradation from UV exposure, and intrusion by outdoor elements such as water, dust, and rodents.
Many conventional systems also lack mechanical features that accommodate buildings with thick or multi-layered walls. As a result, installers are frequently forced to use ad hoc materials, tools, or custom brackets to bridge the indoor and outdoor components. This not only increases installation complexity and time but can also compromise system performance or safety, as well as the integrity of the building walls. In some cases, installation may require permanent modifications to the window frame or wall structure, which may be undesirable or prohibited in leased or historic buildings.
Additionally, existing systems generally do not account for flexible routing of refrigerant and electrical lines between interior and exterior portions (e.g., allowing these portions to move relative to each other without stressing these lines). This limits the adaptability of newer system architectures that separate indoor and outdoor components while requiring high-performance sealing. Thus, there exists a need for a more modular, mechanically adaptable, and thermally efficient window-mountable air conditioning-heating system that improves sealing, simplifies installation, and accommodates a variety of building and window configurations -without compromising aesthetics or requiring permanent attachment to the structure.
SUMMARYA low-profile window-mountable air conditioning-heating system, described herein, comprises an air conditioning-heating unit formed by interior and exterior housings and interconnected by a bridge housing that encloses flexible fluid lines and sliding bridge rails. The system also comprises a mounting frame that supports the unit across a building wall without permanent attachment or wall penetration. The frame also enables pivoting and extension to simplify installation and accommodate different wall thicknesses. The system further comprises a window-frame seal configured to seal between the bridge housing and a window frame. In some examples, the window-frame seal comprises a channel insert, a first sealing unit, and a second sealing unit configured to transfer load into a lower channel of the window frame, accommodate different window geometries, and maintain a low position within the window opening. One or more of these components may be foldable, cuttable to size, and configured with drain openings to direct water into the window frame for discharge through weep holes.
Clause 1. A low-profile window-mountable climate control system for installing across a window opening defined by a window frame positioned in a building wall, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system comprising: an air conditioning-heating unit comprising an interior housing, an exterior housing, a bridge housing, and a service loop, wherein: the bridge housing defines an interior cavity, and the service loop extends through the interior cavity and operatively couples the interior housing and the exterior housing; a mounting frame configured to engage the window frame and the building wall and support the air conditioning-heating unit in the window opening; and a window-frame seal comprising a center seal module configured to position between the window frame and at least the bridge housing to fill and seal gaps between the window frame and at least the bridge housing, wherein the window-frame seal further comprises a side foam unit configured to the positioned between the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 2. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein: the air conditioning-heating unit further comprises a pivot mechanism, and the pivot mechanism allows the exterior housing to pivot relative to the bridge housing about a pivot axis, and
Clause 3. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the bridge housing comprises bridge rails allowing for the interior housing and the exterior housing to translate relative to each other to accommodate different thicknesses of the building wall.
Clause 4. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the center seal module comprises a bottom rubber seal, forming a surface of the center seal module facing away from the bridge housing and being configured to interface with the window frame.
Clause 5. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the service loop comprises a fluid supply line and a fluid return line fluidically coupling the interior housing and the exterior housing.
Clause 6. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the center seal module comprises a center seal shell and weatherstripping piles supported by the center seal shell and configured to engage and seal against the bridge housing.
Clause 7. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the side foam unit is configured to directly interface with the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 8. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the window-frame seal further comprises a set of rigid side blocks, each block in the set of rigid side blocks is configured to interlock with at least one of the center seal module or another block in the set of rigid side blocks.
Clause 9. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 8, wherein at least two blocks in the set of rigid side blocks have different widths.
Clause 10. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 8, wherein the side foam unit is configured to be positioned between and directly interface with one block in the set of rigid side blocks and the window frame.
Clause 11. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 8, wherein the center seal module comprises a first shell side and a second shell side, each configured to interlock with one block in the set of rigid side blocks.
Clause 12. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 11, wherein each of the first shell side and the second shell side comprises a top edge, coplanar with a top surface of the one block in the set of rigid side blocks when the one block is interlocked with one of the first shell side and the second shell side.
Clause 13. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the side foam unit comprises a side-foam-unit base and plastic covers.
Clause 14. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the side foam unit is configured to directly interface with the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 15. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the window-frame seal further comprises a channel foam for filling between the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 16. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein: the mounting frame comprises an interior frame section and a longitudinal frame section, the interior frame section comprises a first interior vertical frame element and a second interior vertical frame element, the longitudinal frame section comprising a first longitudinal frame element, configured to engage the first interior vertical frame element, and a second longitudinal frame element, configured to second interior vertical frame element, the interior frame section comprises a first interior vertical frame element and a second interior vertical frame element, the first interior vertical frame element is configured to engage and attached to the first longitudinal frame element, and the second interior vertical frame element is configured to engage and attached to the second longitudinal frame element.
Clause 17. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 16, wherein: the interior frame section further comprises an interior cross-member and sill tighteners, attached to the interior cross-member and configured to engage the building wall and adjust position of the interior cross-member relative to the building wall, and the interior cross-member extends between and is attached to each of the first interior vertical frame element and the second interior vertical frame element.
Clause 18. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the mounting frame further comprises a pivoting exterior support section comprising retention rails configured to engage corresponding receivers on the exterior housing.
Clause 19. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the mounting frame further comprises one or more springs that support some portion of the weight of the exterior unit.
Clause 20. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the bridge housing comprises a bridge insulator configured to thermally and acoustically isolate the interior housing from the exterior housing.
Clause 21. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 1, wherein the service loop comprises a fluid supply line and a fluid return line fluidically interconnecting the interior housing and the exterior housing and having a length selected to accommodate both translational and pivoting movement of the interior housing relative to the exterior housing.
Clause 22. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 21, wherein each of the fluid supply line and the fluid return line comprises a braided insulated refrigerant line anchored at rigid ferrules positioned adjacent to ends of the bridge housing.
Clause 23. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 21, wherein the exterior housing comprises a fluid-line guider biasing the fluid supply line and the fluid return line in a direction parallel to a window frame.
Clause 24. A method of installing a low-profile window-mountable climate control system through a window opening formed by a window frame in a building wall comprising an interior wall and a exterior wall, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system comprising an air conditioning-heating unit, a mounting frame, and a window-frame seal, the method comprising: configuring the mounting frame, wherein: the mounting frame comprises an interior frame section, a longitudinal frame section, an exterior frame section, and a pivoting exterior support section, and configuring the mounting frame comprises attaching at least a center seal module of the window-frame seal to the longitudinal frame section; positioning the mounting frame within the window opening; securing the mounting frame to the building wall such that the interior frame section comes in contact with the interior wall, the exterior frame section comes in contact with the exterior wall, and the center seal module is positioned between the window frame and the longitudinal frame section; positioning the air conditioning-heating unit on the mounting frame while the longitudinal frame section and the pivoting exterior support section are co-planar, wherein the air conditioning-heating unit comprises an interior housing, an exterior housing, and a bridge housing extending between and interconnecting the interior housing and the exterior housing, and; pivoting the exterior housing relative to the bridge housing such that the pivoting exterior support section also pivots relative to the longitudinal frame section; and sealing a portion of the window opening between the window frame and the center seal module by positioning a side foam unit on each of two sides of the center seal module between the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 25. The method of clause 24, wherein sealing the window opening is further performed by positioning at least one block from a set of rigid side blocks between at least one of the two sides of the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 26. The method of clause 25, wherein sealing the window opening is further performed by positioning multiple blocks from the set of rigid side blocks between at least one of the two sides of the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause27. The method of clause 25, wherein sealing the window opening is further performed by positioning one block from the set of rigid side blocks between each of the two sides of the center seal module and the window frame.
Clause 28. The method of clause 25, wherein sealing the window opening comprises selecting one or more blocks from the set of rigid side blocks based on a gap width between the window frame and the center seal module.
Clause 29. The method of clause 25, wherein the side foam unit is positioned on at least one of the two sides of the center seal module between at least one block from the set of rigid side blocks and the window frame.
Clause 30. The method of clause 25, wherein the side foam unit is positioned on each of the two sides of the center seal module between the at least one block from the set of rigid side blocks and the window frame.
Clause 31. The method of clause 24, wherein the side foam unit comprises a side-foam-unit base and plastic covers forming opposite surfaces of the side foam unit and interfacing at least the window frame.
Clause 32. The method of clause 24, wherein: the exterior frame section comprises exterior feet; and configuring the mounting frame comprises adjusting the location of the exterior feet on the exterior frame section.
Clause 33. The method of clause 24, wherein: the interior frame section comprises sill tighteners; and securing the mounting frame to the building wall comprises adjusting the sill tighteners.
Clause 34. A low-profile window-mountable climate control system for installing across a window opening defined by a window frame, supporting a window comprising at least a first sash and a second sash, and positioned in a building wall, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system comprising: an air conditioning-heating unit comprising an interior housing, an exterior housing, a bridge housing, and a service loop, wherein: the bridge housing defines an interior cavity, and the service loop extends through the interior cavity and operatively couples the interior housing and the exterior housing; a mounting frame configured to engage the window frame and the building wall and support the air conditioning-heating unit in the window opening; and a window-frame seal configured to position (a) between the window frame and the bridge housing to fill and seal gaps between the window frame and the bridge housing and also (b) between the first sash and the bridge housing to fill and seal gaps between the first sash and the bridge housing, wherein: the window-frame seal comprises a first sealing unit and a second sealing unit, the first sealing unit comprises first-unit sidewalls, first-unit seals positioned between the first-unit sidewalls and protruding past perimeter of the first-unit sidewalls and configured to engage and seal against the bridge housing and the first sash, and a first-unit spacer positioned between the first-unit seals, the second sealing unit comprises second-unit sidewalls, second-unit seals positioned between the second-unit sidewalls and protruding past perimeter of the second-unit sidewalls and configured to engage and seal against the bridge housing and the window frame, a second-unit spacer positioned between the second-unit seals, a first frame seat positioned between the second-unit sidewalls, and a second frame seat positioned between the second-unit sidewalls, the first frame seat and the second frame seat are configured to contact the mounting frame and to transfer at least a load from the mounting frame to the window frame, and the second-unit sidewalls are configured to protrude between the first-unit sidewalls and contact the first-unit seals when the window-frame seal is assembled.
Clause 35. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the window-frame seal further comprises a channel insert configured to be received within a portion of the window frame, seal the second sealing unit relative to the, and transfer the load from the first frame seat and the second frame seat to the window frame.
Clause 36. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 35, wherein the channel insert comprises: channel-insert sidewalls, a channel-insert spacer positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls, a first frame-seat support positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls and configured to engage with the first frame seat, and a second frame-seat support positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls and configured to engage with the second frame seat.
Clause 37. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 35, wherein the channel insert is configured to be compressively received within a channel of the window frame.
Clause 38. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 35, wherein the channel insert further comprises an adhesive layer configured to secure the channel insert within the window frame.
Clause 39. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 36, wherein each of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support comprises a support base defining a base opening configured to receive a fastener and secure the support base to the window frame.
Clause 40. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 39, wherein each of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support further comprises a pair of protrusions, separated by a protrusion gap and configured to receive a portion of a coresponding one of the first frame seat and the second frame seat.
Clause 41. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 40, wherein wherein each of the pair of protrusions comprises a protrusion opening configured to align with an insertion opening in the coresponding one of the first frame seat and the second frame seat and secure each of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support to the coresponding one of the first frame seat and the second frame seat with a fastener.
Clause 42. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 40, wherein each of the first frame seat and the second frame seat comprises an insertion portion configured to insert into the protrusion gap and engage the support base of a corresponding one of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support.
Clause 43. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 42, wherein each of the first frame seat and the second frame seat comprises an insertion portion that further comprises a frame-engagement portion configured to contact the mounting frame and to align the relative to the window-frame seal.
Clause 44. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals are wiper-type sealing elements.
Clause 45. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals comprise compressible foam.
Clause 46. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the first-unit spacer and the second-unit spacer are configured to maintain a predetermined spacing between corresponding sealing elements and comprise compressible foam materials.
Clause 47. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the second-unit sidewalls are configured to compress the first-unit seals to form a primary sealing interface.
Clause 48. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit are formed as separate components configured to be assembled together to form an enclosed window-frame seal opening for the bridge housing protruding through and sealing within the enclosed window-frame seal opening.
Clause 49. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein each of the first-unit sidewalls and the second-unit sidewalls is formed from one of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), or an ultraviolet (UV)-resistant thermoplastic.
Clause 50. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein each of the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals is formed from one of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) foam, silicone foam, or polyurethane foam.
Clause 51. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the window-frame seal is configured to be cut to size along a lateral direction to fit varying widths of the window opening.
Clause 52. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein: the window-frame seal further comprises a protective low-friction surface configured to facilitate insertion into the window frame, and the protective low-friction surface is formed by a polytetrafluoroethylene coating or tape.
Clause 53. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein: one of the first-unit sidewalls, both of the first-unit seals, and the first-unit spacer are cut along at least one predefined cut line to enable folding of the first sealing unit prior to installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system, and one of the second-unit sidewalls, both of the second-unit seals, and the second-unit spacer are cut along at least one predefined cut line to enable folding of the second sealing unit prior to installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system.
Clause 54. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein: one of the first-unit seals is configured to form a primary seal with the window frame and the bridge housing, and a remaining one of the first-unit seals is configured to form a secondary seal with the window frame and the bridge housing.
Clause 55. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 54, wherein a cavity between the primary seal and the secondary seal, defined by the first-unit spacer, is to receive fluid passing through either the primary seal or the secondary seal and route the fluid toward an exterior side of the window frame.
Clause 56. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the second-unit sidewalls compress the first-unit seals to form a sealing interference fit.
Clause 57. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of clause 34, wherein the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit are removably attachable to each other.
These and other embodiments are described further below with reference to the figures.
The included drawings are for illustrative purposes and serve only to provide examples of possible structures and operations for the disclosed inventive systems, apparatus, and methods. These drawings in no way limit any changes in form and detail that may be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed implementations.
The following description of embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments but rather to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use this invention. Variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples described herein are optional and are not exclusive to the variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples they describe. The invention described herein can include any and all permutations of these variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples.
IntroductionWindow-mountable air conditioning (AC) systems provide compact installation and integrated cooling, e.g., for single-room environments. Some systems also offer heating capabilities and may be referred to as window-mountable air conditioning-heating systems. However, many conventional window-mountable systems block a large portion of the window opening, obstructing natural light and visibility. Specifically, large fixed systems placed across the window opening above the sill often limit window visibility and window access. Furthermore, conventional systems typically use deformable side curtains and/or foam materials (to seal portions of the window openings around the systems), weak mechanical anchoring (often requiring special wall anchors), and limited adaptability to varied wall thicknesses and window geometries. These shortcomings lead to inefficient thermal insulation, susceptibility to drafts and water ingress, and significant installation complexity.
The disclosed low-profile window-mountable climate control system provides a comprehensive solution featuring: (i) a pivoting and extendable air conditioning-heating unit; (ii) a mounting frame that does not require wall penetration and simplifies the overall installation; and (iii) a novel window-frame seal that uses rigid interlockable blocks and enables robust environmental sealing regardless of wall or window variation. Specifically, this modular seal comprises a rigid center module with pile seals that engage the air conditioning-heating unit or, more specifically, its bridge housing as well as the mounting frame. The modular seal may also comprise one or more sets of side modules (e.g., first and second, or left and right), each formed by a foam insert and/or one or more stackable and interlockable blocks to accommodate various sill widths. Foam inserts or compressible barriers may be used to fill small residual gaps, ensuring both insulation and pest resistance. In some examples (e.g., a narrow window), a foam insert is the only component positioned between the rigid center module and the window frame.
Unlike conventional systems, the mounting frame integrates adjustable pivoting feet and support rails that create mechanical leverage without requiring permanent fasteners. The bridge housing allows for both pivoting and sliding of the exterior housing, with fluid lines routed through a protected internal cavity. These features enable simple installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system in different types of buildings (e.g., wall thicknesses and materials, window openings) while ensuring that no fluid couplings or special electrical routing is needed during the installation.
Referring to
Specifically,
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The window-frame seal 300 conforms to the bottom and side surfaces of the bridge housing 150 and longitudinal frame section 220, and fills the window opening 419 (between these surfaces and the window frame 414) to prevent air or water ingress while accommodating different window widths using interlocking seal modules. A first-sash bulb seal 390 and/or a sash-facing seal 391 may be positioned between the bridge housing 150 and the first sash 411, e.g., as shown in
Referring to
Referring to
As noted above and now with reference to
In some examples, the interior housing 130 comprises an interior heat exchanger 140 having an interior fluid inlet 142 and an interior fluid outlet 144 (noted in
Referring to
As shown in
In the pivoted configuration (
When the second pivot unit 162 reaches the installed configuration relative to the first pivot unit 161 (shown in
The interior housing 130 and the exterior housing 170 function to house cooling, heating, dehumidifying, air filtering, air handling, controls, and power supply components. For example, the interior housing 130 can house: (a) an interior fluid-to-air heat exchanger or refrigerant-to-air interior heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator in a cooling mode), (b) an interior blower configured to drive air through the interior water-to-air heat exchanger; a power supply, (c) a controller, (d) a user interface (e.g., for adjusting cooling settings of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100), (e) an air filter, and/or (f) a condensate pump and condensate catch. The exterior housing 170 can similarly house: (a) an exterior heat exchanger, (b) a compressor, (c) an expansion valve, (d) a reversing valve, and (e) an outdoor blower configured to drive air past the exterior heat exchanger (e.g., through the condenser).
In further examples, the exterior housing 170 comprises a condenser; a valve or capillary expansion device; a reversing valve; a compressor that pumps compressed refrigerant into the condenser; and an exterior blower that drives air through the condenser to draw thermal energy out of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100. The interior housing 130 comprises: an evaporator; and an interior blower configured to drive air through the evaporator to draw thermal energy from interior air into the refrigerant, which expands and carries thermal energy back to the compressor and then to the condenser, where air moving past the condenser carries thermal energy out of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100.
The system is described herein as operating in a cooling mode in which: the interior heat exchanger functions as an evaporator; and the exterior heat exchanger functions as a condenser. However, the system can also function in a heating mode in which the exterior heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, and the interior heat exchanger functions as a condenser.
In some examples, the interior housing 130 and the exterior housing 170 are formed or molded in sheet metal (e.g., aluminum, steel), composite (e.g., fiberglass), or polymer (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene). The interior housing 130 and the exterior housing 170 can also include physically coextensive (e.g., co-molded) or separate internal structures (e.g., internal steel chassis or frameworks) configured to locate their corresponding internal components.
To enable both bridge extension and pivoting of the exterior housing 170, the fluid supply line 192 includes a flexible center supply-line segment 193 arranged within the interior cavity 152 of the bridge housing 150. This segment adopts an omegoid (Ω-shaped) geometry when the bridge rail 156 is in the retracted position and progressively straightens—its apex translating laterally within the cavity—as the bridge rail 156 extends to accommodate deeper wall configurations. A corresponding flexible center return-line segment 195 of the fluid return line 194 is similarly arranged and co-routed within the cavity, forming a service loop 190 with the supply line 192. This nested arrangement allows both lines to flex, extend, and contract in unison as the bridge changes length.
During the pivoting of the exterior housing 170 relative to the bridge housing 150 about the pivot axis 111, the flexible center segments 193 and 195 experience compound deformation—twisting about an axis parallel to the pivot and simultaneously compressing or stretching as needed. Their geometry and slack are selected to preserve continuous fluid flow and prevent concentrated mechanical stress at the connections to the interior and exterior heat exchangers. In some examples, the distal portion of the flexible center segment (proximate to the pivot axis 111) twists up to 90° when transitioning between raised and lowered housing positions, with strain distributed along its length to minimize fatigue. For example, a twist rate of approximately 1° per 0.1" of length reduces the likelihood of plastic deformation or long-term wear.
The supply line 192 and return line 194 each comprise a three-part construction: a distal rigid segment (e.g., copper or stainless steel) within the exterior housing 170, a flexible center segment (e.g., a 316L stainless steel bellows enclosed in a braided shield and optionally wrapped in insulating foam) within the bridge housing 150, and a proximal rigid segment within the interior housing 130. These rigid segments are clamped at each end of the flexible section to prevent torque and tensile loads from being transmitted into brazed or welded joints. When retracted, the flexible center segment forms the described omegoid loop; when extended, it partially unfurls. For example, an 8-inch bridge extension may correspond to a total flexible segment length of approximately 32 inches. In general, a ratio of the bridge extension to the total flexible segment length may be 1/8 -1/2 or, more specifically, 1/6 – 1/3.
The bridge housing 150 is dimensioned to ensure clearance and freedom of motion for the fluid lines. Specifically, the height of the interior cavity exceeds the outer diameter of the largest line by at least 5%, and the upper and lower interior surfaces may be smooth and continuous. These constraints help avoid pinching or abrasion as the bridge is extended or retracted. A distal leg of the omegoid loop runs adjacent to the pivot axis and is free to twist during housing pivot without excessive strain, contributing to system durability across repeated use cycles. Furthermore, the exterior housing 170 may comprise a fluid-line guider 176 (shown in
The system 100 may also include an electrical harness, routed through the bridge housing 150 (e.g., as shown in
In some examples, the fluid supply and return lines, electrical harness, and condensate line pass through and seal against the bridge insulator 158 for thermal and environmental separation. These lines may also be bundled together or otherwise constrained to move as a unit during bridge motion. Bundling mitigates the risk of interference, binding, or kinking between the elements and ensures consistent spacing and mechanical behavior during both bridge extension and exterior housing pivot.
As noted above and now with reference to
The interior frame section 210 is configured to support the interior housing 130 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110. Referring to
The longitudinal frame section 220 is configured to be located over and supported by the windowsill 415. Furthermore, the longitudinal frame section 220 is configured to support the bridge housing 150. The longitudinal frame section 220 comprises a first longitudinal frame element 222 and a second longitudinal frame element 224. Specifically, the first longitudinal frame element 222 is configured to engage the first horizontal frame element 217, while the second longitudinal frame element 224 is configured to engage the second horizontal frame element 218. One or both the longitudinal frame element and the horizontal frame element have a plurality of openings that may be used to adjust the distance between the exterior frame section 230 and the interior vertical frame elements, to accommodate different wall thicknesses. Overall, the mounting frame 200 may have multiple levels of adjustments to engage the interior and exterior walls. For example, a coarse level adjustment may be achieved by the slidable coupling of the longitudinal frame elements and the horizontal frame elements. A medium-level adjustment may be achieved by repositioning the exterior feet 232 relative to the exterior frame section 230 (e.g., also using multiple offset holes on the exterior feet 232). A finer level adjustment may be achieved using sill tighteners 215 (e.g., that are positioned on the interior cross-member 216 and are configured to convert a rotation motion to a linear motion). Overall, the longitudinal frame section 220 extends longitudinally from the interior frame section 210 and can be configured to different retracted frame positions (in combination with the interior frame section 210) to accommodate the range of depths of window 410.
The exterior frame section 230 extends downwardly from the longitudinal frame section 220 and comprises a set of exterior feet 232 extending rearward from the longitudinal frame section 220. The exterior feet 232 are configured to seat against the exterior wall 406 or the window apron 416 (below the windowsill 415), operating with the interior cross-member 216 to clamp the mounting frame 200 to the exterior wall 406 or the window apron 416.
The pivoting exterior support section 240 is pivotably coupled to a distal end of the longitudinal frame section 220 adjacent to the exterior frame section 230. The pivoting exterior support section 240 is operable in a setup position (shown in
The spring 250 is configured to bias the pivoting exterior support section 240 toward the setup position and to moderate the transition of the pivoting exterior support section 240 into the installed position due to the weight of the exterior housing 170 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 over the pivoting exterior support section 240. The spring 250 is also configured to support the return of the pivoting exterior support section 240 to the setup position, against the weight of the exterior housing 170 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110, during the withdrawal of the exterior housing 170 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 via the handle 174. In one variation, the longitudinal frame section 220 and/or interior frame section 210 also includes adjustable feet configured to enable a user to level the system, such as on a non-square window frame.
In one implementation, the first interior vertical frame element 212 of the interior frame section 210 and the first longitudinal frame element 222 of the longitudinal frame section 220 define a unitary structure, such as folded, formed, and/or stamped sheet metal (e.g., 16g steel) to form an inverted L-shaped geometry. The first interior vertical frame element 212 can define a vertical array of through-bores on its lateral face, such as on 1” or 2” centers. The first side of the interior cross-member 216 can be assembled onto the first interior vertical frame element 212 via a set of fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws) inserted into a subset of these through-bores at a position that locates the interior cross-member 216 below (and snug against a bottom edge of) an interior apron of the window. The first longitudinal frame element 222 can similarly define a longitudinal array of through-bores on its lateral face – such as on 1” or 2” centers. The first side of the exterior frame section 230 can assemble onto the first longitudinal frame element 222 via fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts) inserted into a particular subset of these through-bores that longitudinally offset the exterior frame section 230 from the interior frame section 210 by a distance sufficient to span the depth (or “thickness”) of the wall below the window.
The second interior vertical frame element 214 and the second longitudinal frame element 224 can define a similar (i.e., mirrored) structure, geometry, and material and can be similarly configured to mount to the second side of the interior cross-member 216 and to the second side of the exterior frame section 230.
Therefore, the interior vertical frame elements and the longitudinal frame elements can both include arrays of through-bores on target pitch distances to enable assembly with the interior cross-member 216 and the exterior frame section 230, respectively, over ranges of positions that accommodate various combinations of wall thicknesses and interior window trim configurations.
In some examples, the exterior frame section 230 comprises first and second semilune (or square-C-shaped) elements and an exterior cross-member 246. The exterior cross-member 246 fastens to and extends laterally across the distal ends of the first and second semilune elements. Proximal ends of the first and second semilune elements fasten to longitudinal frame elements of the longitudinal frame section 220.
For example, the proximal ends of the first and second semilune (or square-C-shaped) elements can each include a pair of through-bores on a pitch equivalent to the pitch distance between through-bores along the first and second longitudinal frame elements 224. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 can further include a set of (e.g., four) threaded fasteners configured to: assemble through these through-bore pairs in the first and second semilune elements and through corresponding pairs of through-bores in the longitudinal frame elements, and to longitudinally offset the exterior cross-member 246 (arranged on the distal ends of the first and second semilune elements) from the interior cross-member 216 (arranged on the interior frame section 210) by a distance slightly (e.g., less than 1 .0”) greater than a thickness of the wall under the window.
Generally, the interior cross-member 216 functions to distribute a load applied by the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 across a breadth of the interior wall 404 below the window in order to avoid small-area or point loading that may damage or puncture the interior wall 404. The interior cross-member 216 defines a width of at least 16” wide (or otherwise narrower than the air conditioning-heating unit 110) such that the interior cross-member 216 nominally locates over at least one cripple stud located on 16” centers under the window for retrofit of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 in drywall-over-wood framing construction. The interior cross-member 216 can similarly abut and carry the load of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 into a plaster-over-lathe wall over wood framing construction, a masonry wall, etc. Therefore, the interior cross-member 216 can interface the frame and the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 as a whole to an interior wall 404 of any (unknown) construction type – such as masonry, drywall over wood framing, or plaster over wood framing – by spreading the load of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 across a larger width and total area of the interior wall 404, thereby eliminating small-area or point loading that may damage the interior wall 404 and loosen the mounting frame 200 from the wall.
Additionally or alternatively, the cross-member can be configured to locate against an apron of the window rather than rest directly against the interior wall 404 below the window. Yet alternatively, the cross-member can include a set of (e.g., two) laterally offset pads configured to locate directly against the wall under the apron of the window.
The interior cross-member 216 is adjustably arranged on the interior frame section 210 of the mounting frame 200 to enable the interior cross-member 216 to be driven longitudinally toward the wall and thus “clinch” the system to the wall between the interior cross-member 216 and the exterior feet 232. For example, the interior cross-member 216 can be coupled to the first and second interior vertical frame elements 214 of the interior frame section 210 via a set of eccentric fasteners or cams such that rotation of these fasteners or cams drives the interior cross-member 216 longitudinally forward toward the wall, thereby clinching the wall between the interior cross-member 216 and exterior feet 232 and retaining the mounting frame 200 on the wall. The interior cross-member 216 can be designed such that the adjustment points for driving the interior cross-member 216 toward the wall (e.g., the screw heads) are accessible after the mounting frame 200 has been hung over the wall.
In one variation, the interior frame additionally or alternatively includes adjustable interior feet located below the interior cross-member 216 and configured to contact the wall below the interior cross-member 216 to prevent the system from tipping, such as responsive to a user leaning or sitting against the interior housing 130.
In some examples, the exterior feet 232 comprises a first exterior foot configured to install on the distal (i.e., lower) end of the first semilune element of the exterior frame section 230 over a range of depth positions. For example, the first exterior foot can include: an elastomeric pad configured to rest against the exterior wall 406; and a tongue extending rearward from the elastomeric pad and defining an array of through-bores. The distal end of the first semilune element can include a corresponding set of through-bores. The first exterior foot can thus be assembled onto the distal end of the first semilune element over a range of positions via a threaded fastener installed in corresponding through-bores of the first exterior foot and the first semilune element. The first exterior foot can alternatively be rigidly integrated into the exterior frame section 230 or pivotably and/or extensibly arranged on the exterior frame section 230. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 can include a similar second exterior foot.
In one variation, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 comprises a kit of exterior feet 232, each configured to interface the exterior frame section 230 to a different type or geometry of exterior wall 406. For example, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 can include multiple types of exterior feet 232. A first pair of exterior feet 232 may define a first contact area configured to rigidly fasten onto the exterior frame section 230, parallel to the interior cross-member 216. The first pair of exterior feet 232 may be configured to interface the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 to flat stucco, brick, and other masonry exterior facades and board and batten exterior facades. A second pair of exterior feet 232 may define a second contact area – greater than the first contact area – configured to locate and pivot on the exterior frame section 230 over a range of angular positions from 75° to 90°. The second pair of exterior feet 232 is configured to interface the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 to one row of solid wood or composite exterior lap siding. The second pair of exterior feet 232 is also configured to spread the load of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 across this single row of lap siding. In some examples, a third pair of exterior feet 232 may define a third contact area – greater than the first and second contact areas and defining two staggered contact regions – configured to locate and pivot on the exterior frame section 230 over a range of angular positions from 75° to 90°. The third pair of exterior feet 232 may be configured to interface the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 to two rows of hollow aluminum or composite exterior lap siding. The third pair of exterior feet 232 may be configured to spread the load of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 across this multiple row of lap siding.
The first and second housing retention rails 242 are pivotably coupled to the upper-outer corners of the first and second semilune elements of the exterior frame section 230, such as via shoulder bolts. The first and second housing retention rails 242: define elongate linear sections of a “L” cross-sectional geometry and extend parallel to the first and second longitudinal frame elements 224 in the setup position; are configured to engage corresponding first and second receivers 172 arranged on an inner face of the exterior housing 170 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 (i.e., a face of the exterior housing 170 facing the interior housing 130 in the lowered position); and include mechanical stops (or “limits”) configured to obstruct translation of the exterior housing 170 of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 past the pivoting exterior support section 240.
The low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 also includes: a first spring 250 (e.g., a gas spring 250) extending between the first semilune element of the exterior frame section 230 and the first housing retention rail 242 of the pivoting exterior support section 240; and a similar second spring 250 extending between the second semilune element of the exterior frame section 230 and the second housing retention rail 242 of the pivoting exterior support section 240. The first and second springs 250 bias the pivoting exterior support section 240 toward the setup position in which the first and second housing retention rails 242 are parallel to and aligned with the first and second longitudinal frame sections 220 of the longitudinal frame element.
Accordingly, with the pivoting exterior support section 240 located in the setup position by the set of springs 250, a user may slide the air conditioning-heating unit 110 – with the exterior housing 170 pinned to the bridge housing 150 in the raised position – along the first and second longitudinal frame sections 220 toward the pivoting exterior support section 240. As the air conditioning-heating unit 110 moves toward the pivoting exterior support section 240, the first and second housing retention rails 242 insert into corresponding receivers 172 on the rear face of the exterior housing 170 to vertically constrain the exterior housing 170 to the pivoting exterior support section 240. The user may then withdraw locking pins (e.g., quick-release pins, spring-based locks, tamper-proof key locks, keylock pins, quick-release buttons) from the exterior housing 170 or otherwise release the exterior housing 170 to pivot downwardly on the bridge housing 150. Release of these locking pins shifts the weight of the exterior housing 170 onto the pivoting exterior support section 240 and thus into the springs 250, which then compress and enable the exterior housing 170 and the pivoting exterior support section 240 to pivot downwardly toward the lowered position and the installed position, respectively.
In particular, the exterior housing 170 pivots on the bridge housing 150 about an axis offset above an axis about which the pivoting exterior support section 240 pivots on the exterior frame section 230. Thus, the first and second housing retention rails 242 may withdraw (e.g., by ~10% of the length of the housing retention rails 242) from the corresponding receivers 172 on the rear face of the exterior housing 170 as the exterior housing 170 and the pivoting exterior support section 240 pivot downwardly into the lowered position and the installed position, respectively.
Therefore, the first and second housing retention rails 242 can function to constrain the exterior housing 170 in multiple degrees of freedom, such as excluding longitudinal translation in the setup position and excluding vertical translation in the installed position. The mechanical stops on the first and second housing retention rails 242 can: constrain the exterior housing 170 in longitudinal translation in the setup position if the air conditioning-heating unit 110 is driven too far out from the window on the mounting frame 200; and constrain the exterior housing 170 in vertical translation in the installed position to prevent the exterior housing 170 from falling from the pivoting exterior support section 240 given a mechanical failure elsewhere within the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100.
Furthermore, in some examples, the first (and/or second) housing retention rail 242 can include a serrated edge that contacts and vibrates a tab on the exterior housing 170 as the air conditioning-heating unit 110 is loaded onto the mounting frame 200 and driven out of the window. The serrated edge of the first (and/or second) housing retention rail 242 can thus cooperate with this tab to provide haptic and/or audible feedback indicating correct alignment of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 on the mounting frame 200 as the user drives the air conditioning-heating unit 110 out of the window. However, the system can include any other visual marker and/or audible indicator configured to indicate the alignment of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 on the mounting frame 200. For example, the back face of the exterior housing can include a concave portion or portions that surround the installation bracket during installation and prevent the outdoor unit from being slid outwards during installation if it is misaligned.
In further examples, the first and second housing retention rails 242 each include a shoulder pin extending upwardly from the pivoting exterior support section 240 in the setup position, and the exterior housing 170 includes T-slot receivers 172 on its inner face that align with and are located over these shoulder pins (or vice versa). The shoulder pins can thus interface with the T-slot receivers 172 to constrain the exterior housing 170 in five degrees of freedom – excluding longitudinal translation in the setup position and excluding vertical translation in the installed position. Furthermore, the T-slot receivers 172 can be open on a distal (or bottom) end of the exterior housing 170 but closed near the proximal (or top) end of the exterior housing 170 and can thus further function as mechanical stops that: constrain the exterior housing 170 in longitudinal translation in the setup position; and constrain the exterior housing 170 in vertical translation in the installed position.
Referring to
Referring to the window-frame seal 300, the channel insert 340 may be first positioned on windowsill 415 or, more specifically, into the cavity of the windowsill 415 that was configured to receive the first sash 411. The center seal module 310 may be attached to the mounting frame 200 before installation of the mounting frame 200 within the window opening 419. During the installation of the mounting frame 200, channel insert 340 is compressed into the cavity of the windowsill 415 such that the bottom rubber seal 318 can make contact with the windowsill 415. During the installation of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 onto the mounting frame 200, the bridge housing 150 and longitudinal frame sections 220 are sealed against the center seal module 310, e.g., using weatherstripping piles 319 of the center seal module 310 (and also against the mounting frame 200). After the installation of the air conditioning-heating unit 110, the first side seal module 301 and the second seal module 302 are assembled from the rigid side blocks 350 to fill the space and seal the interfaces between the center seal module 310 and the sides of the window frame 414. Specifically, the inner-most rigid side blocks 350 (of the first side seal module 301 and the second seal module 302) may interlock with the center seal module 310 or, more specifically, with the first shell side 315 and the second shell side 316 of the center seal module 310. The remaining rigid side blocks 350 (in each of the first side seal module 301 and the second seal module 302 are interconnected with each other). The outermost rigid side blocks 350 interface with the side foam units 360 that are used to seal the remaining gaps between the seal modules, which are the window frame 414. In some examples, the width of each side foam unit 360 (in the installed configuration, e.g., compressed) may be smaller than the width of the narrowest rigid side block 350, thereby minimizing the non-rigid gap filler (unlike conventional systems that use foam units to fill the entire gap between the bridge and the window frame).
The center seal module 310 comprises a center seal shell 311, which may be made of rigid plastic to maintain its shape and support other components. For example, the center seal module 310 may also comprise weatherstripping pile 319, which is supported by the center seal shell 311 and used to seal the center seal module 310 against the bridge housing 150 (
Referring to
Referring to
The first shell side 315 is coupled to the first side seal module 301, which may be formed using one or more rigid side blocks 350. Specifically, the types and number of rigid side blocks 350 are selected to fill the gap between the first shell side 315 and the side of the window frame 414. The first side seal module 301 defines a downward-facing surface configured to seal against the windowsill 415. Furthermore, the first side seal module 301 defines a first top surface that is flush with the top surface of the bridge housing 150 and interfaces a first-sash bulb seal 390. The first side seal module 301 also defines a frame-facing surface that interfaces the side foam unit 360. The second seal module 302 has a similar configuration and surfaces.
In some examples, the center seal module 310 and each of the rigid side blocks 350 define a unitary structure, such as an injection or roto-molded structure. Alternatively, the center seal module 310 includes a rigid (e.g., steel) plate with threaded bores or threaded inserts located at the first and second frame seats. In a further example, a first side seal module 301 and/or second seal module 302 is a unitary structure, such as an injection or roto-molded polymer, and extends vertically over a height approximating the height of the bridge housing 150.
Rigid side blocks 350 may be provided as a kit, each having a width (selected from one or more width options). Each one or more rigid side blocks 350 is configured to cooperate with two side blocks, a side block and one of the first shell side 315 and second shell side 316, a side block and a side foam unit 360, or a side foam unit 360 and one of the first shell side 315 and second shell side 316. In some examples (when the window is particularly narrow), a side foam unit 360 may directly cooperate with one of the first shell side 315 and second shell side 316 (i.e., rigid side blocks 350 are not used to form one or both of the first side seal module 301 and the second seal module 302). Each side block 350 defines a width in a set of widths (e.g., 0.5”, 1”, and 2” widths) and defines a secondary outer seal module interface. These rigid side blocks 350 are selectively assemblable onto one of the first shell side 315 and, separately, onto the second shell side 316. Specifically, the rigid side blocks 350 are configured to cooperate with each other to fill a gap between the first shell side 315/second shell side 316, and the sides of the window frame 414.
Overall, the center portion 313 is a rigid part configured to fill the majority of the space between the bridge housing 150 and the windowsill 415 (in addition to the channel insert 340). The center portion 313 or, more generally, the center seal shell 311 is configured to embed and support compliant materials (e.g. pile weatherstripping, wiper seals, bulb seal; generally identified as weatherstripping piles 319 in
In some examples, one lateral side of an outer side block 350 can define an internal (square or tapered) dovetail, and an opposing lateral side of the outer side block 350 can define an external dovetail. Each side of the outer side block 350 can thus: slide onto and can be retained by the corresponding external or internal (square or tapered) dovetail of an adjacent first or second outer side-block interface or of an adjacent outer seal module.
The user may therefore: assemble the first side seal module 301 and the second seal module 302 onto the center seal module 310 to form a primary seal module; selectively install rigid side blocks 350 of the same or different widths onto one or both sides of the primary seal module to extend the lateral length of the primary seal module to approximate the width of the window jam, such as to within a width tolerance -0.1” to -0.3” of the width of the window jam; adhere compressible seals to the bottom and lateral sides of this window frame seal assembly; fasten the mounting frame 200 to the first and second frame seats of the center seal module 310; install the mounting frame 200 through the window; install the air conditioning-heating unit 110 on the mounting frame 200, as described above; install a compressible seal across a bottom rail (or sash) of the lower window element in the window; and close this lower window element to seal the lower window element against the top surfaces of the bridge housing 150 and the window frame seal assembly.
Rigid side blocks 350 may be in the form of rigid external structures, such as to prevent damage or through-bore by rodents, and include internal insulative structures or elements. For example, each side block 350 may comprise a rigid polymer shell with an egg crate or coffered internal structure molded in situ with the rigid polymer shell. The egg crate or coffered internal structure can trap internal air pockets that thermally insulate the interior-facing surface of the rigid polymer shell from the exterior-facing surface of the rigid polymer shell. The open faces (s) of coffered internal structures can also be enclosed with a rigid or flexible polymeric cap. For example, compliant materials (e.g., rubber sheet, hollow foam) can be attached to the downward-facing surface of each side block 350 to form an air-and water-tight seal against the window frame.
In some examples, each side block 350 comprises a rigid hollow polymer shell, and a discrete foam insert is inserted into the interior hollow volume of the shell of the hollow polymer shell. In this implementation, the discrete foam insert forms a sealing surface against the window frame and additional thermal insulation to reduce heat leakage between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
In some examples, a window-frame seal 300 or, more generally, a low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 comprises one or more cut-to-size window frame seal, such as channel insert 340, a first-sash bulb seal 390, a sash-facing seal 391, and an inter-sash bulb seal 392 (e.g., as shown in
The window frame seal is adjustable in width to fit a range of window sizes and can be of a modular (e.g., additively-adjustable) type or a cut-to-size (reduceably-adjustable) type. Alternatively, the window frame seal could be additively adjustable or reducibly adjustable off-site, for example via 3D printing in the former case or laser cutting in the latter case.
Referring now to
In particular,
When used, the channel insert 340 is configured to be received within the bottom portion of the window frame 414, such as within a channel or recess of the windowsill 415, as shown in
In some examples, the channel-insert spacer 346 extends beyond the upper edges of the channel-insert side walls 343 to form a ceiling or upper boundary within the channel of the window frame 414. This configuration can limit upward deformation of adjacent sealing components and provide a defined contact surface for portions of the second sealing unit 380 positioned above the channel insert 340. In some examples, the channel-insert spacer 346 is formed from a compressible or semi-rigid material to enable conformal engagement with irregularities of the window frame 414.
In some examples, the channel insert 340 further comprises a first frame-seat support 342 and a second frame-seat support 344, as shown in
Referring to
The first-unit spacer 376 extends between portions of the first-unit sidewalls 372 or, more specifically, between portions of the first-unit seals 374 and functions to maintain spacing, add structural rigidity, and load transfer within the first sealing unit 370. In some examples, the first-unit spacer 376 (e.g., in combination with the first-unit seals 374) is configured to transfer loads between the first sash 411 and the bridge housing 150, e.g., shown in
Referring to
In some examples, one or more of the first sealing unit 370, the second sealing unit 380, and the channel insert 340 is configured to fold into a reduced-size packaging configuration and to unfold into an installed configuration, thereby allowing these components to fit within packaging constraints even when formed with lengths selected to span a wide range of window widths. In some examples, the first sealing unit 370, the second sealing unit 380, and the channel insert 340 are each cuttable from left and right side portions to fit the width of a particular window frame. The cutting may be symmetric to maintain a centered installation or asymmetric to provide an offset installation. In some examples, such offsetting is used to accommodate obstructions or layout constraints proximate the window. In some examples, these components are formed from a weatherable and cuttable polymer sheet material, such as UV-resistant ABS, ASA, or another UV-resistant thermoplastic, selected to permit trimming with scissors, snips, or similar hand tools while resisting cracking during cutting and degradation during use.
Referring to
In some examples, the second-unit spacer 386 and associated components may also include folding features similar to those described for the first sealing unit 370, including cut regions and score lines to enable controlled deformation. This allows the second sealing unit 380 to adapt to variations in window geometry independently of the first sealing unit 370.
Referring to
The frame seat 320 comprises an insertion portion 321 configured to be received within a corresponding portion (e.g., protrusion gap 334 and additional protrusion gap 337) of the frame-seat support 330. The insertion portion 321 defines an insertion opening 322 extending therethrough and is dimensioned to align with corresponding openings in the frame-seat support 330. In some examples, the frame seat 320 further comprises a frame-engagement portion 323 extending from the insertion portion 321 and configured to contact the mounting frame 200. The frame-engagement portion 323 may provide positional alignment of the mounting frame 200 relative to the window-frame seal 300 and may distribute loads from the mounting frame 200 into the window-frame seal 300.
The frame seat 320 may further comprise an additional insertion portion 325 and an additional insertion opening 326, which provide additional fastening locations and structural engagement features. These additional features may improve the rigidity of the interface and allow multiple fasteners to be used to secure the frame seat 320 to the corresponding frame-seat support. In some examples, the frame seat 320 may also comprise reinforcing ribs or structural contours to improve stiffness and load distribution.
The frame-seat support 330 (e.g., first frame-seat support 342 and second frame-seat support 344) comprises a support base 331 configured to interface with the window frame 414. The support base 331 defines a base opening 332 configured to receive a fastener (e.g., screw or bolt) to secure the support base 331 directly to the window frame 414. This configuration allows loads from the mounting frame 200 and associated components to be transferred into the window frame 414 through the frame-seat support.
Extending upward from the support base 331, the frame-seat support comprises a pair of protrusions 333 separated by a protrusion gap 334. The protrusion gap 334 is dimensioned to receive the insertion portion 321 of the frame seat 320. When assembled, the insertion portion 321 is positioned within the protrusion gap 334 such that the frame seat 320 is laterally constrained relative to the frame-seat support.
Each of the pair of protrusions 333 defines a protrusion opening 335 configured to align with the insertion opening 322 of the insertion portion 321. When the insertion portion 321 is received within the protrusion gap 334, the protrusion openings 335 and the insertion opening 322 are aligned to receive a fastener. The fastener extends through the aligned openings to secure the frame seat 320 to the frame-seat support, thereby forming a rigid mechanical connection.
In some examples, the frame-seat support further comprises an additional pair of protrusions 336, defining an additional protrusion gap, and corresponding openings 338, which may provide additional attachment points (e.g., to receive the additional insertion portion 325). The frame-seat support 330 and frame seat 320 may include aligning/locating features (e.g., for lateral/window-width alignment of the second sealing unit 380 and the channel insert 340).
Referring to
In some examples, an upper gap between the first-unit seals 376 and the first sash 411 defines a trough configured to receive water that passes the primary seal and direct that water toward the first-unit drain opening 377. The trough may have a depth sufficient to maintain fluid communication with the first-unit drain opening 377 even when the first sealing unit 370 exhibits some downward sag across the top during installation or use (e.g., the weight of the first sash 411). In this manner, water collected in the trough may continue to drain through the first-unit drain opening 377 and into the window frame 414 for discharge through one or more weep holes. In some examples, the first-unit drain opening 377 is positioned at or near a low point of the trough. However, exact alignment with the absolute low point is not required so long as the trough provides sufficient depth and slope continuity to direct water to the first-unit drain opening 377.
Referring to
In some examples, the window-frame seal 300 may be manufactured using a combination of rigid and compliant materials, such as die-cut polymer sheets bonded with foam layers, or die-cast structural components combined with elastomeric seals, as illustrated in prototype configurations. The use of such materials enables the window-frame seal 300 to achieve both structural rigidity and sealing compliance.
Method 500 may commence with (block 510) configuring the mounting frame 200. For example, the first step of this mounting operation may involve positioning the channel insert 340 into a bottom channel in the window frame 414 (e.g., as shown in
In some examples, when used, the channel insert 340 is positioned within a gap defined by the window frame 414, such as within a recessed channel of the windowsill 415. The channel-insert side walls 343 may engage opposing side surfaces of the gap to provide lateral positioning. The channel insert 340 may be secured to the window frame 414 using one or more fasteners extending through corresponding openings (e.g., base openings 332) in the first frame-seat support 342 and the second frame-seat support 344 into the window frame 414. Additionally or alternatively, the channel insert 340 may be retained by frictional engagement, compressive fit, adhesive, or a combination thereof. This positioning and securement allow the channel insert 340 to establish a stable base within the window frame 414, thereby supporting subsequent installation of the window-frame seal 300 and ensuring consistent alignment and sealing performance.
The mounting operation may then involve installation of the second sealing unit 380, e.g., over the channel insert 340 or directly onto the window frame 414. In some examples, the second sealing unit 380 is positioned such that the second-unit sidewalls 382 and second-unit seals 384 engage corresponding surfaces of the window frame 414 or the channel insert 340 to establish a sealing interface. When the channel insert 340 is used, the second sealing unit 380 may be seated on an upper surface of the channel-insert spacer 346 and aligned relative to the window frame 414 by the channel-insert side walls 343.
In some examples, the second sealing unit 380 may be secured to the channel insert 340 and/or the window frame 414 using one or more fasteners extending through aligned openings in the second sealing unit 380 and corresponding supports, such as the second frame-seat support 344. Additionally or alternatively, the second sealing unit 380 may be retained by frictional engagement, compressive fit, or adhesive bonding. This positioning enables the second sealing unit 380 to form a continuous sealing barrier and to provide a structural interface for subsequent installation of additional components of the window-frame seal 300.
The mounting operation may involve attaching the interior cross-member 216 (comprising the sill tighteners 215) to each of the first interior vertical frame element 212 and the second interior vertical frame element 214. For example, the selection of the holes on the frame elements determines the vertical position of the sill tighteners 215 (e.g., to align with the contact points on the interior wall 404 (e.g., the window apron 416). This frame configuration operation may also involve attaching (or at least repositioning) the exterior feet 232 relative to their supports on the exterior frame section 230. The position may depend on the thickness of the building wall and the future location of the window-frame seal 300 (determined by the location of the first sash 411 contacting the windowsill 415). A set of holes in the exterior feet 232 may be used to provide this alignment.
The frame configuration operation may involve attaching the first horizontal frame element 217 to the first longitudinal frame element 222 and attaching the second horizontal frame element 218 to the second longitudinal frame element 224. The selection of the corresponding holes in these elements depends on the wall width or, more specifically, on the distance between the exterior wall 406 (to be contacted by the exterior feet 232) and either the interior wall 404 or the window apron 416 (to be contacted by the sill tightener 215). Specifically, the sill tighteners 215 may provide the finer/final adjustment of the gap.
The above-referenced attachment operation may be performed while various components of the mounting frame 200 are already positioned through the window 410, e.g., the interior frame section 210 and exterior frame section 230 may be interconnected by a safety lanyard (but not bolted together as described in the above-referenced attachment operation). This subassembly is then set in the window, and the interior frame section 210 and exterior frame section 230 are slid together until the tops of these sections are leveled and the position of the exterior feet 232 and the sill tighteners 215 are proximate or in contact with the building wall 400. The attachment operation is then completed by putting the screws through the sides of these sections to fasten them. Modular-frame seal 300 is then attached to frame section 220 in the position for sealing against the window frame. This example may be referred to as an in-situ configuration of the mounting frame 200 over the windowsill 415. Method 500 then proceeds with block 530. Alternatively, the attachment operation may be performed before positioning the pre-configured mounting frame 200 through the window 410, based on various measurements, e.g., thickness of the building wall 400, protrusions, and the like.
Generally, during installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 within the window, the user may: assemble seal modules of the window-frame seal 300 to form a window frame seal assembly sized for a width of the window frame; locate a sill seal across a bottom face of the window-frame seal 300; assemble and configure the mounting frame 200 for the thickness of the wall under the window; fasten the window frame seal assembly to the first and second longitudinal frame elements 224 of the longitudinal frame section 220 of the mounting frame 200; install the mounting frame 200 and window-frame seal 300 assembly onto the wall below and through the window such that the window frame seal assembly intersects a vertical plane through a bottom rail (or sash) of a lower window element of the window (e.g., as shown in
Thus, the exterior surface of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 can be: sealed against the window sill below via the sill seal; sealed against the first and second seal module 302 on its first and second sides; and sealed against the lower window element along its top face via the window seal on a first vertical plane that intersects the bottom rail of the lower window element of the window. However, the insulator within the bridge housing 150 can span the interior cavity across a second vertical plane offset from and decoupled from (e.g., unrelated to) the first vertical plane.
Once the mounting frame 200 is configured, method 500 may proceed with (block 520) positioning the mounting frame 200 through a window opening 419, as, e.g., shown in
In some examples, method 500 comprises (block 540) adjusting the length of the bridge housing 150. Specifically, the bridge housing 150 extends from a distal side of the interior housing 130 and defines the interior cavity 152. The bridge housing 150 comprises a bridge rail 156 operable between a retracted bridge position and an extended bridge position to accommodate a range of depths of the window and an insulator spanning the interior cavity across a vertical plane adjacent to the interior housing 130.
In some examples, the bridge housing 150 comprises first and second bridge rails 156 that extend parallel to each other and longitudinally from the interior housing 130 (or from an internal chassis within the interior housing 130). The bridge housing 150 comprises a set of covers configured to locate around the first and second bridge rails 156 to enclose an interior cavity. Finally, the bridge housing 150 comprises a bridge insulator 158 (e.g., a cast foam structure) spanning the interior cavity 152 across a vertical plane adjacent to the interior housing 130 and configured to prevent air, water, dust, and thermal exchange between the interior housing 130 and the bridge housing 150.
Furthermore, the first and second bridge rails 156 are extensible over a range of lengths in order to accommodate a range of thicknesses of the wall below the window. In one example, the first bridge rail 156 includes a pair of nested inner and outer C-channel sections, such as formed in steel sheet metal. The outer C-channel section can include a single pin bore, such as proximal to the interior housing 130. The inner C-channel section can include a set of lateral-facing through-bores located on a pitch distance equal to the pitch distance of through-bores on the longitudinal frame section 220 of the mounting frame 200 (e.g., 1”). The outer C-channel section can thus be pinned to any one of the through-bores in the inner C-channel section to control the total length of the first bridge rail 156. For example, the inner C-channel section can: nest and run within the outer C-channel section; include nine lateral-facing through-bores on 1” centers; and thus enable the first bridge rail 156 to extend by up to 8” and to lock in 1” length increments between the retracted bridge position and the extended bridge position, such as via insertion of a quick-release pin into corresponding through-bores in the inner and outer C-channel sections.
The second bridge rail 156 can be similarly assembled. The longitudinal frame section 220 of the mounting frame 200 can include a similar array of through-bores on a similar pitch to enable the exterior frame section 230 to extend by up to 8” in 1” increments on the longitudinal frame section 220 of the mounting frame 200 to accommodate the length of the bridge housing 150 and the thickness of the wall on which the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 is mountable.
In another implementation, the first bridge rail 156 can include a pair of nested inner and outer C-channel sections with single coaxial through-bores configured to receive a quick-release pin that locks the first bridge rail 156 in a shortest length configuration. The second bridge rail 156 can define a similar structure. In this implementation, the lengths of the bridge rails 156 can remain unconstrained in length following assembly of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100. Therefore, the bridge housing 150 can be assembled over a range of lengths on gross (e.g., 1”) intervals to accommodate a range of wall thicknesses below the window. Alternatively, the bridge housing 150 can be assembled over a continuous range of lengths to accommodate a range of wall thicknesses below the window.
Method 500 proceeds with (block 550) positioning the air conditioning-heating unit 110 onto the mounting frame 200 with the bridge housing 150 resting on the longitudinal frame section 220 and the interior and exterior housings 130 and 170 supported on opposite sides of the wall (e.g., as shown in
Specifically, this positioning operation may further involve (a) withdrawing quick-release pins from the raised pin receivers 172 of hinge plates on the exterior housing 170; and (b) pushing the exterior housing 170 forward, thereby applying a torque to the exterior housing 170 and compressing the springs 250. Because the springs 250 are pinned to the pivoting exterior support section 240 at a first distance from the pivot axis and pinned to the exterior frame section 230 of the mounting section at a second distance – greater than the first distance – below the pivot axis, initial compression of the springs 250 and rotation of the pivoting exterior support section 240 decreases an effective length of the lever arm of the springs 250 such that the springs 250 continue to (slowly, “gently”) yield to weight of the exterior housing 170 and thus (slowly, “gently”) lower the exterior housing 170 into the lowered position and the pivoting exterior support section 240 into the installed position. The user may then insert the quick-release pins into lowered pin receivers 172 of hinge plates on the exterior housing 170 to retain the exterior housing 170 in the lowered position and fasten the interior housing 130 (or the bridge housing 150) to the mounting frame 200, such as by: inserting a first screw through a through-bore on a first side of the interior housing 130 – adjacent an inner apex between the interior housing 130 and bridge housing 150 – into a corresponding threaded bore on the first side of the mounting frame 200; and inserting a second screw into similar bores on the second side of the interior housing 130 and the mounting frame 200. A cover plate may then be installed over an exposed region of a distal end of the bridge housing 150 (i.e., a section of the bridge housing 150 that is extended to accommodate the thickness of the wall) to complete the installation of the air conditioning heating unit 110.
For removing the air conditioning-heating unit 110 from the mounting frame 200, the positioning operations described above may be reversed. In particular, when raising the exterior housing 170 back into the raised position after removing quick-release pins from hinge plates on the exterior housing 170, the user may grasp the grab handle 174 on the exterior housing 170 (e.g., integral with an outer front face of the exterior housing 170) and pull the exterior housing 170 inwardly. Springs 250 can assist the user in rotating the exterior housing 170 back into the raised position and then fully support the exterior housing 170 once in the raised position. The user may then install the quick-release pins into raised pin receivers 172 of hinge plates on the exterior housing 170 to retain the exterior housing 170 in the raised position before continuing with removal.
Method 500 proceeds with (block 570) pivoting the exterior housing 170 downward about the pivot axis 111 relative to the bridge housing 150, as, e.g., schematically shown in
For example, the distal end of the first bridge rail 156 of the bridge housing 150 comprises (a) a first kingpin extending laterally along a pivot axis, (b) a first pivot stop offset from the first kingpin, and (c) a first pin receiver (e.g., a blind or through-bore) offset from the first kingpin and the first pivot stop. The first upper-inner corner of the exterior housing 170 includes a first hinge plate that defines (a) a first pivot receiving and rotating about the first kingpin, (b) a first semi-circular slot spanning a 90° arc segment, configured to run about the first pivot stop as the exterior is transitioned between the raised position and the lowered position, and configured to stop against the first pivot stop in response to the exterior housing 170 entering the raised position and the lowered position; a first raised pin receiver configured to align with the first pin receiver and to receive a quick-release pin to lock the exterior housing 170 in the raised position; and a first lower pin receiver configured to align with the first pin receiver and to receive the quick-release pin to lock the exterior housing 170 in the lowered position. The distal end of the second bridge rail 156 of the bridge housing 150 can include similar features, and the second upper-inner corner of the exterior housing 170 can include a similar hinge plate defining similar features and configured to similarly interface with the second bridge rail 156. In another implementation, the system includes quick-release buttons, knobs on sliders, or other mechanical latches in place of quick-release pins. Therefore, the bridge housing 150 and/or the exterior housing 170 can include integrated pivot stops and can be selectively locked in the raised position and the lowered position via quick-release pins (or other fasteners).
Method 500 proceeds with (block 590) sealing the window opening 419 around the bridge housing 150 or, more specifically, filling the gaps between the first shell side 315 and second shell side 316 and the sides of the window frame 414. Specifically, a set of rigid side blocks 350 is configured to fill these gaps as much as possible (as explained above) with the side foam unit 360 positioned in the remainder of these gaps (e.g., as shown in
Referring to
A first-sash bulb seal 390 may then be attached to the bottom of the first sash 411, while a sash-facing seal 391 may be attached to the bridge housing 150 (and aligned with the first sash bulb seal 390, e.g., as shown in
In some examples, the sash-facing seal 391 may be omitted and replaced by the second sealing unit 380. In such examples, the second sealing unit 380 is installed at an upper portion of the window-frame seal 300 and positioned to interface directly with the first sash 411 when the first sash 411 is in a closed position. The second sealing unit 380 may be configured such that the second-unit seals 384 extend upward and inward toward the first sash 411, thereby forming a sealing interface that replaces the function of the sash-facing seal 391.
When used, the second sealing unit 380 is positioned over at least a portion of the bridge housing 150 and is configured to seal against the bridge housing 150. Specifically, the second-unit seals 384 may extend downward and/or inward to contact an upper surface and/or side surfaces of the bridge housing 150, thereby forming a sealing interface that limits ingress of air and water at the interface between the window-frame seal 300 and the bridge housing 150. In some examples, the second sealing unit 380 is dimensioned to conform to an outer profile of the bridge housing 150 and may include compressible materials that accommodate tolerances and relative movement between the bridge housing 150 and the window-frame seal 300.
In some examples, the second sealing unit 380 is installed such that it overlaps with at least a portion of the first sealing unit 370 in a vertical and/or lateral direction. This overlapping configuration may create a multi-layer sealing interface in which the first sealing unit 370 provides a primary barrier and the second sealing unit 380 provides a secondary barrier positioned above or inward relative to the first sealing unit 370. The overlap may also assist in directing water away from the interface with the first sash 411 and into drainage paths, thereby improving resistance to water ingress. Additionally, the overlapping arrangement may allow relative compression between the first sealing unit 370 and the second sealing unit 380 when the first sash 411 is closed, thereby enhancing sealing performance.
ApplicationsGenerally, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system 100 functions as a window-mountable air conditioning-heating unit 110 and includes: an air conditioning-heating unit 110; a mounting frame 200; and a window-frame seal 300.
The air conditioning-heating unit 110 includes: an exterior housing 170 containing a heat pump and pivotable between raised and lower positions; an interior housing 130 containing a fluid-to-air heat exchanger; and a low-profile (e.g., between 2” and 5”-tall) extensible bridge that connects the interior housing 130 and the exterior housing 170, houses extensible fluid supply and return lines that thermally couple the heat pump to the fluid-to-air heat exchanger, and minimally affects sight lines through the window. Furthermore, because the depth of the exterior housing 170 may be shallower than its height, the system can be installed on lower-height windows, bypassing the exterior housing 170 through the window while in the raised position before being pivoted into a final lowered position.
The mounting frame 200: is configured to install under and through a window and to cinch against the wall; is configured to assemble over a range of depths to accommodate a range of wall thicknesses and construction types; and includes a pivoting exterior support section 240 configured to support and guide the exterior housing 170 from the raised position into the lowered position during installation of the air conditioning-heating unit 110 on the window.
The window-frame seal 300: is configured to assemble into a range of widths to accommodate a range of window widths; and seals the mounting frame 200 and the air conditioning-heating unit 110 to the adjacent window sill, window frame, and bottom rail of the adjacent window element to thermally isolate an interior environment from an external environment at the window and to prevent ingress of moisture, air, dust, and rodents through the window.
The air conditioning-heating unit 110, the mounting frame 200, and the window-frame seal 300 thus cooperate to form a comprehensive, modular window-mountable air conditioner that: accommodates a wide range of window widths, wall thicknesses, and building construction types; rigidly fastens to the wall under the window without penetrating or damaging the interior wall, exterior wall, window frame, or window surfaces (i.e., by excluding screws or other fasteners driven into these surfaces); is deliverable and installable with a completed, sealed, and operable cooling system, thereby preventing need for filling of refrigerant or working fluid fill or connecting of fluid or refrigerant lines after installation on the window; limits increase in window sightline by locating only the low-profile bridge housing 150 in the window opening; and is configured to carry substantial vertical loads (e.g., up to 400lbs. static load) such that the window maintains egress status.
The system is described herein as an air conditioning-heating unit 110. However, the system can additionally or alternatively be operated in heating, dehumidifying, and/or air-filtering modes.
ConclusionAs a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.
Claims
1. A low-profile window-mountable climate control system for installing across a window opening defined by a window frame, supporting a window comprising at least a first sash and a second sash, and positioned in a building wall, the low-profile window-mountable climate control system comprising: an air conditioning-heating unit comprising an interior housing, an exterior housing, a bridge housing, and a service loop, wherein: the bridge housing defines an interior cavity, and the service loop extends through the interior cavity and operatively couples the interior housing and the exterior housing; a mounting frame configured to engage the window frame and the building wall and support the air conditioning-heating unit in the window opening; and a window-frame seal configured to position (a) between the window frame and the bridge housing to fill and seal gaps between the window frame and the bridge housing and also (b) between the first sash and the bridge housing to fill and seal gaps between the first sash and the bridge housing, wherein: the window-frame seal comprises a first sealing unit and a second sealing unit, the first sealing unit comprises first-unit sidewalls, first-unit seals positioned between the first-unit sidewalls and protruding past perimeter of the first-unit sidewalls and configured to engage and seal against the bridge housing and the first sash, and a first-unit spacer positioned between the first-unit seals, the second sealing unit comprises second-unit sidewalls, second-unit seals positioned between the second-unit sidewalls and protruding past perimeter of the second-unit sidewalls and configured to engage and seal against the bridge housing and the window frame, a second-unit spacer positioned between the second-unit seals, a first frame seat positioned between the second-unit sidewalls, and a second frame seat positioned between the second-unit sidewalls, the first frame seat and the second frame seat are configured to contact the mounting frame and to transfer at least a load from the mounting frame to the window frame, and the second-unit sidewalls are configured to protrude between the first-unit sidewalls and contact the first-unit seals when the window-frame seal is assembled.
2. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the window-frame seal further comprises a channel insert configured to be received within a portion of the window frame, seal the second sealing unit relative to the, and transfer the load from the first frame seat and the second frame seat to the window frame.
3. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 2, wherein the channel insert comprises: channel-insert sidewalls, a channel-insert spacer positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls, a first frame-seat support positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls and configured to engage with the first frame seat, and a second frame-seat support positioned between the channel-insert sidewalls and configured to engage with the second frame seat.
4. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 2, wherein the channel insert further comprises an adhesive layer configured to secure the channel insert within the window frame.
5. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 3, wherein each of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support comprises a support base defining a base opening configured to receive a fastener and secure the support base to the window frame.
6. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 5, wherein each of the first frame-seat support and the second frame-seat support further comprises a pair of protrusions, separated by a protrusion gap and configured to receive a portion of a coresponding one of the first frame seat and the second frame seat.
7. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals are wiper-type sealing elements.
8. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals comprise compressible foam.
9. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit are formed as separate components configured to be assembled together to form an enclosed window-frame seal opening for the bridge housing protruding through and sealing within the enclosed window-frame seal opening.
10. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein each of the first-unit sidewalls and the second-unit sidewalls is formed from one of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), or an ultraviolet (UV)-resistant thermoplastic.
11. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein each of the first-unit seals and the second-unit seals is formed from one of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) foam, silicone foam, or polyurethane foam.
12. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the window-frame seal is configured to be cut to size along a lateral direction to fit varying widths of the window opening.
13. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein: the window-frame seal further comprises a protective low-friction surface configured to facilitate insertion into the window frame, and the protective low-friction surface is formed by a polytetrafluoroethylene coating or tape.
14. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein: one of the first-unit sidewalls, both of the first-unit seals, and the first-unit spacer are cut along at least one predefined cut line to enable folding of the first sealing unit prior to installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system, and one of the second-unit sidewalls, both of the second-unit seals, and the second-unit spacer are cut along at least one predefined cut line to enable folding of the second sealing unit prior to installation of the low-profile window-mountable climate control system.
15. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the second-unit sidewalls compress the first-unit seals to form a sealing interference fit.
16. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit are removably attachable to each other.
17. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein: the air conditioning-heating unit further comprises a pivot mechanism, and the pivot mechanism allows the exterior housing to pivot relative to the bridge housing about a pivot axis.
18. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein the bridge housing comprises bridge rails allowing for the interior housing and the exterior housing to translate relative to each other to accommodate different thicknesses of the building wall.
19. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein: the mounting frame comprises an interior frame section and a longitudinal frame section, the interior frame section comprises a first interior vertical frame element and a second interior vertical frame element, the longitudinal frame section comprising a first longitudinal frame element, configured to engage the first interior vertical frame element, and a second longitudinal frame element, configured to second interior vertical frame element, the interior frame section comprises a first interior vertical frame element and a second interior vertical frame element, the first interior vertical frame element is configured to engage and attached to the first longitudinal frame element, and the second interior vertical frame element is configured to engage and attached to the second longitudinal frame element.
20. The low-profile window-mountable climate control system of claim 1, wherein: the service loop comprises a fluid supply line and a fluid return line fluidically interconnecting the interior housing and the exterior housing and having a length selected to accommodate both translational and pivoting movement of the interior housing relative to the exterior housing, each of the fluid supply line and the fluid return line comprises a braided insulated refrigerant line anchored at rigid ferrules positioned adjacent to ends of the bridge housing, and the exterior housing comprises a fluid-line guider biasing the fluid supply line and the fluid return line in a direction parallel to a a window frame.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 7, 2026
Publication Date: Aug 20, 2026
Inventors: Peter Bradford Aumann (Boise, ID), Kylie Copenhagen (San Francisco, CA), Thomas Edward Tolley (Berkeley, CA), Daniel Miglio (Oakland, CA), Arturo Benetti Sullivan (Oakland, CA), Thomas Kroman Watt (San Francisco, CA), Shail Nilesh Shah (Oakland, CA), Mark Peter McNally (San Francisco, CA), David Yee (Oakland, CA), Bradley Thomas Hall (San Francisco, CA)
Application Number: 19/641,034
