AIR CONDITIONING ATTACHMENT

Abstract

 The invention relates to an air conditioning attachment for an air conditioning or ventilation unit that is configured to be positioned in a window opening, the attachment comprising a housing extending in a first direction from an inlet towards an outlet and defining an air channel for guiding air, wherein the outlet is an angled portion that extends under angle with the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame.
The invention further relates to an air conditioning assembly and to a kit comprising an air conditioning attachment and a closure element. The invention also relates to a method for fixating an outlet of an air conditioning in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an air conditioning attachment, an air conditioning with such an attachment and to a method for fixating an outlet of an air conditioning in a window opening.

[0002] Displaceable or mobile air conditioning and ventilation units, often simply referred to a mobile air conditioning or airco units, are known in practice and are often used to ventilate or cool a specific space or room in a building during hot days. In use, said mobile air conditioning units draw in ambient air through an inlet, which air is subsequently cooled and reintroduced in the space to be cooled as cooled air. The extracted heat is discharged from the space to be cooled by means of a discharge hose that is positioned in an opening of the window, which exists between the window frame and the window in an open position of the window.

[0003] A disadvantage of these discharge hoses is that these have a relatively large size, which means the window must be opened quite wide. This leads to a larger exchange of heat through the window opening. Reducing size of the discharge hoses may however lead to overheating of the compressor and subsequent failure of the air conditioning unit.

[0004] A further disadvantage of these known air conditioning units is that the hose, due to gravity and forces acting thereon, is removed from the opening.

[0005] The present invention is aimed at obviating or at least reducing the aforementioned problems by providing an air conditioning attachment for an air conditioning or ventilation unit that is configured to be positioned in a window opening, the attachment comprising a housing extending in a first direction from an inlet towards an outlet and defining an air channel for guiding air, wherein the outlet is an angled portion that extends under angle with the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame.

[0006] An advantage of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention is that, due to the angled portion, the outlet can more easily be positioned between the window and the window frame. The specific shape reduces the necessary window opening and simultaneously provides a sufficiently large opening to discharge the hot air to prevent overheating of the air conditioning unit, especially the compressor thereof. As a result heat leakage into the space (and/or leakage of cold air to the outside of the space) through the window opening can be reduced.

[0007] Another advantage is that the specific shape of the angled portion also prevents the attachment from being dislodged from the window opening.

[0008] Another advantage of the attachment according to the invention is that it can also be used in combination with tiltable windows, in which windows the angled portion can easily be slid in the opening formed by the tilted window.

[0009] It is noted that the opening between the window and the window frame, in use of the attachment, is also referred to in the application as the window opening and are considered exchangeable.

[0010] The window opening in which the air conditioning attachment is provided may be a normal window that open sideways, yet may also be a (vertically) tiltable window or a slanted window such as a tiltable window roof.

[0011] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, a fixation element that is connected to the housing and that is configured to fixate the window relative to the window frame such that the angled portion of the housing is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0012] An advantage of the fixation element of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention is that it fixates the window and the window frame to prevent the window from unwanted opening, while simultaneously keeping the outlet in place.

[0013] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the housing is made of a rigid material, preferably a metal or a (rigid) plastic material.

[0014] An advantage of rigid material is that it is capable of resisting the clamping force exerted on the attachment by the fixation element.

[0015] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the inlet is configured to be operatively connectable to an outlet of an air conditioning unit or a ventilation device, and preferably is shaped to form a mating connection with said outlet of the air conditioning unit or ventilation device.

[0016] It is preferred that the inlet is adapted to provide a mating connection with the outlet of an air conditioning or ventilation unit to reduce leakage of air to be discharged to the space to be cooled or ventilated. In most cases, the mating connection will be established by providing a circular inlet, which for example can be slid over or in a circular outlet of a said unit. Another connection is however also possible.

[0017] It is noted that the operative connection may also (additionally) comprise a hose or other conduit between the outlet of the unit and the inlet of the attachment.

[0018] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the fixation element may releaseably be connected to the housing.

[0019] An advantage of this embodiment is that it allows the fixation element to be connected in various different positions on the housing. As a result, the air conditioning attachment can be used with a variety of different types of window, such as inwardly or outwardly rotating windows and left-hand or right-hand windows. This can for example be achieved by connecting the fixation element to either a right side of the housing or a left side of the housing.

[0020] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the fixation element may comprises a window frame connector that is operatively connected to the housing and is configured to be connected to a window frame. In addition, it may comprise a window stopper that is operatively connected to the housing and that may be configured to cooperate with the window frame connector to clamp the window in an open position therebetween.

[0021] This embodiment provides a simple and efficient manner of fixating the window, the window frame and the housing with respect to each other. The window frame connector allows the attachment to be operatively connected to the window frame in an easy manner, while simultaneously serving as connecting element to fixate the window in place together with the window stopper.

[0022] Another advantage is that only a few components are required to fixate the window in the position in which the housing, specifically the angled portion thereof, is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0023] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the fixation element may further comprise a fixation element base that extends over a predetermined length in a first direction and is connected to a side wall of the housing, wherein at least one of the window frame connector and the window stopper is connected to the fixation element base.

[0024] An advantage of a fixation element base is that the window frame connector and the window stopper can more easily be releasably connected than to the housing. In addition, this embodiment allows the entire fixation element to be replaced if necessary.

[0025] Another advantage is that the fixation element base may be manufactured from a different material then the housing, such as for example stainless steel or aluminium, to increase the strength.

[0026] Another advantage of providing a fixation element base is that it can easily be disconnected and reconnect to another position on the attachment housing.

[0027] It is preferred that the fixation element base is connected to a lateral side wall of the housing, which is a side wall of the housing that defines a height of the air channel rather than a width thereof.

[0028] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the window frame connector may be moveably, preferably slidably, connected to the housing or, alternatively, to the fixation element base.

[0029] An advantage of a slidable connection is that (an associated surface of) the window frame connector can be lined up with an inner edge of the angled portion of the housing.

[0030] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the window frame connector may be connectable to the housing at one of a number of predetermined connection positions on the housing or, alternatively, on the fixation element base.

[0031] An advantage of providing a number of predetermined connection positions is that the window frame connector can easily be connected to the housing or the fixation base element.

[0032] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the window frame connector may comprise a support bracket having a connection portion that is configured to be operatively connected to the housing and a U-shaped holding portion that is configured to be positioned around the window frame.

[0033] An advantage of having a support bracket is that it provides a strong and reliable connector. An advantage of providing a U-shaped holding portion is that it can easily be positioned over a window frame, whereas the connection portion can be easily connection to either the housing or the fixation element base.

[0034] The connection element preferably is connected to an outer end of one of the legs of the U-shape and extends perpendicularly away from the U-shape. This allows it to be connected to the housing or the fixation element base.

[0035] Another advantage of a U-shaped holding portion is that it does not require any connection means to be positioned on the window frame. This prevents damage to the window frame and allows the attachment to be easily transferrable to another window opening.

[0036] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the U-shaped holding portion may comprise a first angled part and a second angled part that together define a distance between a first and a second leg of the U-shaped holding portion, wherein the first and second part are releasably connected to each such that the distance is adjustable.

[0037] By providing two releasable parts that together form the U-shape, it becomes possible to adapt the distance between the legs to a thickness of window frame to provide a substantially mating fit of the window frame connector onto the window frame.

[0038] An advantage is that the attachment therewith becomes more flexible, since it can be connected on different types and thicknesses of window frames.

[0039] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the window stopper may comprises a support element comprising a base portion that is configured to be operatively connected to the housing and an extension portion that extends substantially perpendicular from the base portion, and a distance element that is connected to the extension portion and that is configured to fixate the window against the window frame connector to clamp the attachment, specifically the angled portion thereof, in the opening.

[0040] An advantage of this construction is that the base portion can be used to provide a rough positioning relative to the window, whereas the distance element can be used to overcome the remaining distance to the window and provide the force required to fixate the window and the attachment to the window frame.

[0041] The window stopper preferably is releasably connected to the housing or the fixation element base and can be positioned at a number of predetermined positions on the housing or the fixation element base.

[0042] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the angled portion may extend substantially in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0043] An advantage of providing an angled portion with an angle in the second direction (i.e. a 90_° angle with the first direction) is that the angled portion is substantially flush with the window, therewith decreasing air leakage between the space to be cooled or ventilated and the environment. This in turn increases the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning or ventilation unit.

[0044] Another advantage is that the angled portion, due to the 90_° angle, can easily be placed (and held) in the opening between the window and the window frame.

[0045] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, an inner side wall of the angled portion is configured to, in use of the attachment, be positioned flush with an edge of the window.

[0046] An advantage of providing a flush position is that an even further improved fixation of the housing, and in particular the angled portion, between the window and the window frame is achieved.

[0047] Another advantage is that the flush positioning also decreases air leakage between the space to be cooled or ventilated and the environment, which increases the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning or ventilation unit.

[0048] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the outlet may be a square or rectangular shaped channel that is provided with a number of support fins disposed in the channel to increase the stiffness of the angled portion.

[0049] An advantage of the support fins is that these increase the stiffness of the angled portion and thus provide increased resistance against compression of the outlet opening by the clamping force exerted on the angled portion by the window stopper. In other words, the support fins reduce the risk of compression of the outlet and associated reduced discharge capacity of the attachment.

[0050] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the channel comprises channel walls that define the outlet, and wherein an outer side of one or more channel walls is provided with anti-slip material.

[0051] An advantage of providing the anti-slip material on one or more the abovementioned positions is that the unintended release of the window frame connector is substantially prevented or at least significantly reduced.

[0052] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the housing inlet may have a substantially circular cross-section and the housing outlet may have a substantially square or rectangular cross section, and wherein the housing along the first direction converges from the circular cross section to the square or rectangular cross-section.

[0053] It has been found that having an outlet with a rectangular or square cross section provides several advantages compared to a circular cross section. First of all, the rectangular or square cross section can more easily be positioned in an opening between a window and a window frame, because it is more akin to the shape of the opening.

[0054] Secondly, a rectangular or square cross section allows the creation of a substantially perpendicular angle in the housing to form the angled portion. The perpendicular angle allows the angled portion to be more easily be positioned against the window edge and into the opening. This would not, or at least less easily, be achievable with a circular cross-section of the housing.

[0055] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the angled portion, in use of the attachment, is fixated between window and associated window frame.

[0056] In use of the attachment, the angled portion can be positioned flush with the corner of the window such that the outlet is directed towards an environment outside the window. The fixation is than at least partially achieved by the fixation element. In case of a tiltable window (that is tilted into an open position) the clamping may also partially be achieved by sliding the angled portion downwards, that is substantially in a third direction that is perpendicular to the first and second direction, in the opening until it is clamped between the window and the window frame.

[0057] It is noted that the attachment according to the invention is in particular useful for air conditioning or ventilation units that are meant to displace air outside a building and that do not possess a direct outlet to the environment. In most cases, such units are either displaceable units or, alternatively, are stationary units that do not possess a separate outlet to the environment and rely on a separate hose to discharge air outside the space to be cooled or ventilated.

[0058] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the inlet comprises connection means, such as connection clips or a threaded portion, that are configured to connect the inlet to an outlet of an air conditioning of ventilation unit.

[0059] An advantage of connection means is that the inlet of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention can easily and releasably be connected to an air conditioning or ventilation device or unit. As a result, the air conditioning attachment can be used for various different air conditioning or ventilation units.

[0060] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the attachment further comprises anti-slip material, such as rubber, silicon or another friction increasing material.

[0061] An advantage of anti-slip material, especially when applied on surfaces that are in contact with the window or the window frame is that it provides additional grip or strength to hold the attachment in place.

[0062] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the anti-slip material is provided on at least part of the U-shaped bracket, and preferably is provided on the U-shaped connection portion and/or an inner side of one or both legs of the U-shaped bracket.

[0063] An advantage of providing the anti-slip material on one or more the abovementioned positions is that the unintended release of the window frame connector is substantially prevented or at least significantly reduced.

[0064] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, the air conditioning attachment is configured to be positioned in a window opening of a window that is tilted relative to a vertical plane, wherein the housing extends from the inlet over a predetermined distance in the first direction and subsequently extends towards the outlet over a predetermined second distance in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction to form the angled portion that is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame, wherein the angled portion, when viewed in a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first and the second direction, has a tapered shape.

[0065] Although the abovementioned embodiment preferably is used in combination with a fixation element, it is noted that, due to the tapered form, it is not necessary to use it.

[0066] In an embodiment of the air conditioning attachment according to the invention, a size of the cross-sectional surface of the outlet is adapted to the power output of the compressor.

[0067] An advantage of this embodiment is that overheating of the compressor is substantially prevented, because the size of the outlet is adapted to allow all necessary heat to be discharged.

[0068] The invention also relates to an air conditioning assembly comprising an air conditioning unit or ventilation device, preferably a displaceable air conditioning unit or ventilation device, and an air conditioning attachment according to the invention.

[0069] The air conditioning assembly according to the invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning attachment according to the invention. It is noted the embodiments as described for the air conditioning attachment according to the invention may freely be used, alone or in combination, in conjunction with the air conditioning assembly according to the invention.

[0070] In an embodiment of the air conditioning assembly according to the invention, the assembly may further comprise a closure element that is configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening to seal the window opening against airflow between the space to be cooled and an outside environment.

[0071] An advantage of the closure element is that the opening between the window and the window frame can be substantially completely be sealed off against air transfer to prevent cold air from escaping to the environment and/or to prevent hot outside air from entering the space to be cooled.

[0072] In an embodiment of the air conditioning assembly according to the invention, the closure element is a strip of flexible material, preferably an insulating flexible material such as foam, that can be positioned in the window opening.

[0073] An advantage of flexible material is that is can be positioned to seal off the entire opening. An advantage of insulating material is that it reduces heat transfer even further.

[0074] The invention also relates to a kit comprising an air conditioning attachment according to the invention and a closure element that is configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening, and wherein the air conditioning attachment and the closure element cooperate to seal the window opening against airflow between the space to be cooled and an outside environment.

[0075] The kit according to the invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning attachment and the air conditioning assembly according to the invention. It is noted that the embodiments as described for the air conditioning attachment and the air conditioning assembly according to the invention may freely be used, alone or in combination, in conjunction with the kit according to the invention.

[0076] In particular, the kit provides users with a complete package that overcomes the disadvantages of the known air conditioning units and improves the efficiency thereof.

[0077] The invention also relates to a method for fixating an outlet of an air conditioning in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame, the method comprising:

• providing an air conditioning attachment according to the invention or an air conditioning assembly according to the invention;
• positioning the window frame connector around the window frame such that the air channel outlet is direct outwards;
• moving the window with a first side against the angled portion and/or the window frame; and
• placing the window stopper against a second side of the window that is opposite the first side to fixate the window and the air conditioning attachment relative to the window frame.

[0078] The method according to the invention has the same advantages and effects as the air conditioning attachment, the air conditioning assembly and the kit according to the invention. It is noted that the embodiments as described for the air conditioning attachment, the air conditioning assembly and the kit according to the invention may freely be used, alone or in combination, in conjunction with the method according to the invention.

[0079] In particular, the method provides an easy, consumer-friendly method of removing the disadvantages of the known air conditioning units by providing and using the air conditioning attachment according to the invention. The attachment can easily be placed (and removed after use) without the need to install subsidiary connection means.

[0080] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of positioning the window frame connector may comprise:

• determining a thickness of the window frame;
• adjusting the distance between the first and second angled parts of the U-shaped holding portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame;
  and/or comprises the steps of:
  • moving the first angled part against an inner side of the window frame; and
  • fixating the first angled part relative to the housing.

[0081] An advantage of the abovementioned steps is that it provides a substantially tight fit around the window frame. An advantage of moving the first angled part (i.e. the part closest to the window) is that it lines up with the housing, which provides an improved fixation of the housing in the window opening.

[0082] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of placing the window stopper against a second side of the window may comprise the steps of:

• positioning the window stopper relative to the window frame connector, preferably an inner side thereof, such that a distance between the window stopper and the window frame connector substantially matches a thickness of the window;
• operatively connecting the window stopper to the housing;
• moving the distance element of the window stopper against the window to clamp the window against the window frame connector and to fixate the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

[0083] An advantage of this embodiment is that the window stopper can be positioned with high precision in two subsequent steps. The primary positioning of the window stopper by connecting the base portion of the support element to the housing or fixation element base only needs to be performed once for a specific window. The actual fixation can subsequently be performed using the distance element. This ensures that a user, after the initial set-up, can quickly attach and detach the attachment from the window opening by operating the distance element.

[0084] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the method may further comprise the steps of:

• determining the type of window, wherein the determining comprises:

  ~ determining whether the window is an inwardly or outwardly rotating window; and

  ~ determining whether the window is an left-hand swing or a right-hand swing window;

• depending on the type of window, connecting the fixation element, preferably a fixation element base, to a left side of a right side of the housing.

[0085] An advantage of the abovementioned embodiment is that the method provides a solution for a large variety of window types by providing a single air conditioning attachment. This increases flexibility for the consumer. In addition, it reduces manufacturing costs, since it obviates the need to manufacture various different types of attachment for different windows.

[0086] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of positioning the window stopper relative to the window frame connector comprises the step of positioning the window stopper, preferably a base thereof, a one of a number of predetermined connection positions on the housing, or alternatively, the fixation element base.

[0087] An advantage of providing a releasable window stopper is that the primary positioning of the window stopper can be performed by connecting the base portion of the support element to the housing or fixation element base. The actual fixation can subsequently be performed using the distance element. This ensures that a user, after the initial set-up, can quickly attach and detach the attachment from the window opening by operating the distance element.

[0088] An advantage of providing a tapered, preferably triangularly, shaped form of the outlet in the third direction, the outlet can easily be positioned in a (vertically) tilted window without falling out of the opening. This particular embodiment therewith is especially configured to be used in conjunction with a vertically tiltable window.

[0089] Preferably, the tapered or triangular shape is adapted to the opening of a vertically tilted window such that it can snugly be inserted into the opening. It is noted that this particular embodiment may freely be combined with the embodiments mentioned above in the application. This embodiment may also be used as part of the kit and/or the assembly and may also be used in the method according to the invention.

[0090] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are elucidated on the basis of preferred embodiments thereof, wherein reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an example of an air conditioning attachment according to the invention;

Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the example of figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a second example of an air conditioning attachment according to the invention;

Figure 4 shows a side view of the example of figure 1;

Figure 5 shows a side view of the example of figure 2;

Figure 6 shows perspective view of an example of an air conditioning assembly according to the invention when placed in a window opening;

Figure 7 shows perspective view of an example of the kit according to the invention; and

Figure 8 shows a schematic example of an example of the method according to the invention.

[0091] In an example of air conditioning attachment 2 (see figures 1 and 2), air conditioning attachment 2 comprises housing 4 and fixation element 18. Housing 4 in this example extends in first direction x from inlet 6 towards bend 8, which bend emanates in outlet 10. In other words, outlet 10 is positioned at an angle with first direction x and in this example extends substantially in second direction y. Second direction y is substantially perpendicular to first direction x. In this example, bend 8 and outlet 10 together form angled portion 12. Angled portion 12 is configured to positioned against, and partially around, an edge of a (not shown) window. Housing 4 as such defines air channel C, which over first part C1 extends parallel with longitudinal axis A and over second part C2 extends under a 90° angle with longitudinal axis A. Housing 4 further comprises connection means 16, in this example in the form of connector hooks 16, that allow air conditioning attachment 2 to be connected to an outlet of an air conditioning unit. Housing 4 in this example converges from a circular cross-section near inlet 6 to a rectangular cross section at outlet 10 (see figure 2).

[0092] In this example, fixation element 18 comprises fixation element base 20, which is releasably connected to lateral side wall 4a of housing 4. In this example, the connection is made using screws 22, although any other suitable connection could have been used as well. Fixation element base 20 extends in first direction x and substantially parallel to longitudinal axis A. Fixation element base 20 is provide with a number of different connection positions 24 at which window stopper 26 is connectable using a releasable connection. In this example, window stopper 26 is connected using bolt 28 to create a connection. Window stopper 26 comprises support element 30 that in turn comprises base portion 32, which is connected to fixation element base 20, and extension portion 34. Extension portion 34 extends in second direction y away from base portion 32. In use in a window opening, extension portion 34 extends substantially parallel to an inner side of the window. Extension portion 34 is provided with distance element 36, which in this example is rotatable element 36 that is on a window facing side provided with cap 38. In this example, cap 38 is rubber cap 38. On the opposite side, knob 40 is positioned to allow rotation of distance element 36.

[0093] Fixation element 18 further comprises window frame connector 42 that is slidably connected to fixation element base 20. Window frame connector 42 is slidable in first direction x over a predetermined distance S that is defined by (not visible) slot 44 in fixation element base 20.

[0094] In this example, window frame connector 42 comprises connection portion 46 that is connected to fixation element base 20 and U-shaped holding portion 48 which is connected to connection portion 46. In use, U-shaped holding portion 48 can be positioned around a (not shown) window frame. U-shaped holding portion 48 comprises first angled part 50 that is connected to connection portion 46 with first end 52, which also forms an end of first leg 54 of U-shaped holding portion 48. First angled part 50 further includes a number of connection openings 51 that allow second angled part 56 to be connected thereto. Second angled part 56 of U-shaped holding portion 48 forms second leg 58 and part of U-base 60. Second angled part 56 is in this example also provided with connection openings 62, which allow first angled part 50 and second angled part 56 to be connected to each other, with for example a bolt-and-nut connection or similar connectors.

[0095] Together, first angled part 50 and second angled part 56 form U-shaped holding portion 48 and define distance D between first leg 54 and second leg 58 of U-shaped holding portion 48.

[0096] In an example of air conditioning attachment 2 (see figure 3), air conditioning attachment 102 comprises housing 104 and fixation element 118. Housing 104 in this example extends in first direction x from inlet 106 towards bend 108, which bend emanates in outlet 110. In other words, outlet 110 is positioned at an angle with first direction x and in this example extends substantially in second direction y. Second direction y is substantially perpendicular to first direction x. In this example, bend 108 and outlet 110 together form angled portion 112. Angled portion 112 is configured to positioned against, and partially around, an edge of a (not shown) window. Housing 104 as such defines air channel C, which over first part C1 extends parallel with longitudinal axis A and over second part C2 extends under a 90° angle with longitudinal axis A. Housing 104 further comprises connection means 116, in this example in the form of connector hooks 116, that allow air conditioning attachment 102 to be connected to an outlet of an air conditioning unit. Housing 104 in this example converges from a circular cross-section near inlet 106 to a rectangular cross section at outlet 110 (see figure 3).

[0097] In this example, fixation element 118 comprises fixation element base 120, which is releasably connected to lateral side wall 104b of housing 104. In this example, the connection is made using screws 122, although any other suitable connection could have been used as well. Fixation element base 120 extends in first direction x and substantially parallel to longitudinal axis A. Fixation element base 120 is provide with a number of different connection positions 124 at which window stopper 126 is connectable using a releasable connection. In this example, window stopper 126 is connected using bolts 128 to create a connection. Window stopper 126 comprises support element 130 that in turn comprises (non-visible) base portion 132, which is connected to fixation element base 120, and extension portion 134. Extension portion 134 extends in second direction y away from base portion 132. In use in a window opening, extension portion 134 extends substantially parallel to an inner side of the window. Extension portion 134 is provided with distance element 136, which in this example is rotatable element 136 that is on a window facing side provided with cap 138. In this example, cap 138 is rubber cap 138. On the opposite side, knob 140 is positioned to allow rotation of distance element 136.

[0098] Fixation element 118 further comprises window frame connector 142 that is slidably connected to fixation element base 120. Window frame connector 142 is slidable in first direction x over a predetermined distance S that is defined by slot 144 in fixation element base 120.

[0099] In this example, window frame connector 142 comprises connection portion 146 that is connected to fixation element base 120 and U-shaped holding portion 148 which is connected to connection portion 146. In use, U-shaped holding portion 148 can be positioned around a (not shown) window frame. U-shaped holding portion 148 comprises first angled part 150 that is connected to connection portion 146 with (not visible) first end 152, which also forms an end of first leg 154 of U-shaped holding portion 148. First angled part 150 further includes a number of connection openings 151 that allow second angled part 156 to be connected thereto. Second angled part 156 of U-shaped holding portion 148 forms second leg 158 and part of U-base 160. Second angled part 156 is in this example also provided with connection openings 162, which allow first angled part 150 and second angled part 156 to be connected to each other, with for example a bolt-and-nut connection or similar connectors.

[0100] Together, first angled part 150 and second angled part 156 form U-shaped holding portion 48 and define distance D between first leg 154 and second leg 158 of U-shaped holding portion 148.

[0101] In an example of kit 200 (see figure 7), kit 200 comprises air conditioning attachment 202 and closure element 264 that in this example is provided as sealing strip assembly 264. Sealing strip assembly 264 comprises, in this example, first sealing strip 266 and second sealing strip 270. First sealing strip 266 extends over length LS1 and in this example is provided with folding point 268, in this case indentation 268, which allows first sealing strip 266 to be bend in a 90° arc. In a bent position, first sealing strip 266 then comprises first part LS1.1 and second part LS1.2. This allows first sealing strip 266 to be positioned in the opening between the window along a lateral part (i.e. in a width direction of the window), as well as over a certain length in the height direction. First sealing strip 266 has a width WS1 that is sufficient to be clamped in the opening to seal the opening. To that end, strip 266 preferably is at least slightly compressable.

[0102] Second sealing strip 270 is provided with folding point 272 that separates second sealing strip 270 in first part having length LS2.1 and second part having length LS2.2 that together define total length LS2. Second sealing strip 270 has predetermined width WS2, which is such that second sealing strip 270 can be provided in the opening between the window and the window frame. Preferably, second sealing strip 270 is formed from a material that is slightly compressible, such as a foam, preferably an insulating foam.

[0103] Air conditioning attachment 202 comprises housing 204 having inlet 206 that is connectable to an outlet of an air conditioning unit (not shown). Air conditioning attachment 202 further comprises fixation element 218 including fixation element base 220 to which window stopper 226 and window frame connector 242 are connected. Window frame connector 242 comprises U-shaped holding portion 248 that includes first leg 254 and second leg 258 that are part of respectively first angled part 250 and second angled part 256.

[0104] In an example of air conditioning assembly 300 (see figure 6), assembly 300 comprises air conditioning attachment 202 and air conditioning unit 374. Air conditioning unit 374 in this example comprises housing 376 having an inlet (not shown) and cold air outlet 378. Housing 376 further comprises hot air outlet 380, which in this example is connected to first end 382 of discharge hose 384. Second end 386 of discharge hose 384 is connected to inlet 306 of air conditioning attachment 302 by connection means 316. In this particular example, air conditioning assembly 300 is shown in a use position, which means that air conditioning assembly 300 is ready to use and the air conditioning attachment 302 is held in place relative to both window 388 and window frame 390 (in a clamped position). To that end, fixation element 318 is positioned around window frame 390 and window stopper 326 is in this example used to press window 388 against closure element 364, and in particular against second sealing strip 370 which is provided between window 388 and window frame 390. In this example, second sealing strip 270 is also pressed against first leg of U-shaped holding portion of window frame connector (not visible).

[0105] In an example of method 1000 (see figure 8), method 1000 comprises the steps of providing 1002 an air conditioning attachment or an air conditioning assembly according to the invention. In a subsequent step, method 1000 comprises positioning 1004 the window frame connector around the window frame such that the air channel outlet is direct outwards and moving 1006 the window with a first side against the angled portion and/or the window frame. In this example, method 1000 further includes the step of placing 1008 the window stopper against a second side of the window that is opposite the first side to fixate the window and the air conditioning attachment relative to the window frame.

[0106] Optionally, the step of positioning 1004 of method 1000 the window frame connector may comprise the steps of determining 1010 a thickness of the window frame and adjusting 1012 the distance between the first and second angled parts of the U-shaped holding portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame.

[0107] Optionally, the step of positioning 1004 of method 1000 the window frame connector may comprise the steps moving 1014 the first angled part against an inner side of the window frame and fixating 1016 the first angled part relative to the housing.

[0108] Further optionally, the step of placing 1008 the window stopper against a second side of the window of method 1000, may comprises the step of positioning 1018 the window stopper relative to the window frame connector, preferably an inner side thereof, such that a distance between the window stopper and the window frame connector substantially matches a thickness of the window, and subsequently operatively connecting 1020 the window stopper to the housing. Step 1008 may further optionally comprise the step of moving 1022 the distance element of the window stopper against the window to clamp the window against the window frame connector and to fixate the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

[0109] Method 1000 in this example further comprises the optional steps of determining 1024 the type of window and depending on the type of window, connecting 1026 the fixation element, preferably a fixation element base, to a left side of a right side of the housing. The step of determining 1024 in this example comprise the steps of determining 1028 whether the window is an inwardly or outwardly rotating window and determining 1030 whether the window is an left-hand swing or a right-hand swing window.

[0110] The present invention is by no means limited to the above described preferred embodiments and/or experiments thereof. The rights sought are defined by the following claims within the scope of which many modifications can be envisaged.

Claims

1. Air conditioning attachment for an air conditioning or ventilation unit that is configured to be positioned in a window opening, the attachment comprising a housing extending in a first direction from an inlet towards an outlet and defining an air channel for guiding air, wherein the outlet is an angled portion that extends under angle with the first direction, and wherein the angled portion is configured to be positioned between a window and an associated window frame.

2. Air conditioning attachment according to claim 1, further comprising a fixation element that is connected to the housing and that is configured to fixate the window relative to the window frame such that the angled portion of the housing is clamped between the window and the window frame.

3. Air conditioning attachment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixation element is releasably connected to the housing.

4. Air conditioning attachment according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the fixation element comprises:

- a window frame connector that is operatively connected to the housing and is configured to be connected to a window frame; and

- a window stopper that is operatively connected to the housing and that is configured to cooperate with the window frame connector to clamp the window in an open position therebetween.

5. Air conditioning attachment according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the fixation element further comprises a fixation element base that extends over a predetermined length in a first direction and is connected to a side wall of the housing, and, when dependent on claim 4, wherein at least one of the window frame connector and the window stopper is connected to the fixation element base.

6. Air conditioning attachment according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the window frame connector is moveably, preferably slidably, connected to the housing or to the fixation element base.

7. Air conditioning attachment according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, wherein the window frame connector comprises a support bracket having a connection portion that is configured to be operatively connected to the housing and a U-shaped holding portion that is configured to be positioned around the window frame, and preferably wherein the U-shaped holding portion comprises a first angled part and a second angled part that together define a distance between a first and a second leg of the U-shaped holding portion, and wherein the first and second part are releasably connected to each such that the distance is adjustable.

8. Air conditioning attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 4, wherein the window stopper comprises:

- a support element comprising a base portion that is configured to be operatively connected to the housing and an extension portion that extends substantially perpendicular from the base portion; and

- a distance element that is connected to the extension portion and that is configured to fixate the window against the window frame connector to clamp the angled portion in the opening.

9. Air conditioning attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the angled portion extends substantially in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction.

10. Air conditioning assembly comprising an air conditioning unit or ventilation device, preferably a displaceable air conditioning unit or ventilation device, and an air conditioning attachment according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. Air conditioning assembly according to claim 10, further comprising a closure element that is configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening to seal the window opening against airflow between the space to be cooled and an outside environment.

12. Kit comprising an air conditioning attachment according to any one of the claims 1 to 10 and a closure element that is configured to be positioned between the window and the window frame in the window opening, and wherein the air conditioning attachment and the closure element are configured to cooperate to seal the window opening against airflow between the space to be cooled and an outside environment.

13. Method for fixating an outlet of an air conditioning in a window opening between a window and an associated window frame, the method comprising:

- providing an air conditioning attachment according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9 or an air conditioning assembly according to claim 10 or 11;

- positioning the window frame connector around the window frame such that the air channel outlet is direct outwards;

- moving the window with a first side against the angled portion and/or the window frame; and

- placing the window stopper against a second side of the window that is opposite the first side to fixate the window and the air conditioning attachment relative to the window frame.

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein the step of positioning the window frame connector comprises:

- determining a thickness of the window frame;

- adjusting the distance between the first and second angled parts of the U-shaped holding portion to substantially match the thickness of the window frame;

and/or comprises the steps of:

- moving the first angled part against an inner side of the window frame; and

- fixating the first angled part relative to the housing.

and/or
wherein the step of placing the window stopper against a second side of the window comprises the steps of:

- positioning the window stopper relative to the window frame connector, preferably an inner side thereof, such that a distance between the window stopper and the window frame connector substantially matches a thickness of the window;

- operatively connecting the window stopper to the housing;

- moving the distance element of the window stopper against the window to clamp the window against the window frame connector and to fixate the angled portion of the housing between the window and the window frame.

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising the steps of:

- determining the type of window, wherein the determining comprises:

~ determining whether the window is an inwardly or outwardly rotating window; and

~ determining whether the window is an left-hand swing or a right-hand swing window;

- depending on the type of window, connecting the fixation element, preferably a fixation element base, to a left side of a right side of the housing.

Drawing