Structurally Reinforced Duct

摘要

Reinforced duct section comprising side walls defining a duct interior. At least two of the side walls are parallel. A compression member extends between ribs provided on the inside surfaces of the two parallel side walls to prevent the parallel side walls from bowing inwardly. A tension member extends between two force distribution members provided on the outside surfaces of the parallel side walls to prevent the side walls from bowing outwardly. The compression member may comprise a truss provided between two ribs. The truss may be longer than the duct section. The ribs may connect first and second flanges provided on the ends of the two parallel side walls.

主权项

1. A duct section comprising
foam panel side walls defining a duct passageway, said foam panel side walls having first and second ends, wherein a first one of said foam panel side walls and a second one of said foam panels side walls are spaced apart and are generally parallel to each other, a first rib extending alongside an inside surface of said first foam panel side wall, a second rib extending along an inside surface of said second foam panel side wall, a compression member secured between said first and second ribs and operable to prevent said first and second foam panel side walls from moving towards each other, first and second force distribution members on outside surfaces of said first and second foam panels side walls, and a tension member connecting said first and second force distribution members so that they prevent the first and second side wall panels from moving away from each other.