ONE STEP INSTALLATION OF VENT ASSEMBLY FROM INSIDE THE STRUCTURE

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a continuation-in-part of a U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/195,437 filed on Apr. 30, 2025, which is a continuation-in-part of a U.S. patent Ser. No. 18/070,164 filed on Nov. 28, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of a U.S. patent Ser. No. 17/316,414 filed on May 10, 2021, which claims priority from a U.S. Provisional Patent Appl. No. 63/146,944 filed on Feb. 8, 2021.

The U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19/195,437 takes priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Appl. No. 63/742,603 filed on Jan. 7, 2025 and 63/760,487 filed on Feb. 19, 2025.

This application also claims priority from a U.S. Provisional Patent Appl. No. 63/742,603, filed on Jan. 7, 2025.

All of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to vent assemblies for buildings, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a vent assembly for roof and wall installations with integrated vent cap.

BACKGROUND

Ventilation systems are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings to exhaust odor-laden air, moisture, smoke, and heat from interior spaces to the exterior of the building. For example, dryer vents are used to exhaust moist air, exhaust fans installed in bathrooms or toilets to remove humid air, while range hoods are used to exhaust smoke and cooking byproducts from kitchens. Such exhaust fans are often mounted in ceilings or walls and connected to ducts that extend through interstitial spaces, such as wall cavities, floor cavities, or attics, to discharge air outside the building envelope.

To route exhaust air to the exterior, a penetration is formed through a roof deck or an exterior wall, typically as a round opening sized to receive a duct. A vent hood or vent body is installed at the penetration, and the duct is connected to the vent hood. A cap or exterior cover is then installed on the outside of the structure to protect the opening and to regulate airflow. However, in conventional construction practices, there is often a significant delay between installation of the interior duct or vent body and installation of the exterior cap.

During this interim period, which may span days or weeks, the vent opening remains exposed to environmental conditions. Rain, snow, debris, or pests may enter through the uncovered penetration and travel along the duct toward the interior of the building. Such exposure can result in water intrusion, damage to insulation, degradation of ventilation components, and potential damage to interior finishes, often requiring repair or replacement and increasing labor and material costs.

Another limitation of conventional vent installation methods is that exterior vent caps are typically installed from outside the building. This often requires the use of ladders, scaffolding, or lifts, particularly for multi-story structures. Working at height presents safety risks, including slips and falls, and may limit installation to specialized trades or crews equipped with appropriate safety equipment, thereby increasing complexity and cost.

Modern buildings often require multiple exhaust outlets for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry appliances, and other equipment. Each exhaust outlet requires a separate penetration through the roof or exterior wall. Each penetration represents a potential source of water leakage and air infiltration, and the cumulative cost of materials, labor, sealing, and inspection increases with the number of penetrations. As building energy standards become more stringent, maintaining a tight building envelope with minimal air leakage has become increasingly important.

In many conventional installations, vent assemblies are inserted from outside the structure through an exterior sheathing or roofing surface and then connected to interior ductwork. These assemblies are typically of fixed length and are designed to accommodate an assumed exterior finish thickness. However, exterior finishes vary widely and may include brick, stone, stucco, fiber cement siding, vinyl siding, or other materials.

During rough-in construction stages, the final exterior finish thickness may not yet be known. As a result, vents may be installed with improper spacing, misalignment, or incorrect projection length. This can lead to crooked or recessed vent caps, difficulties during exterior finishing, and the need for multiple site visits to correct vent placement.

Additionally, cutting and finishing exterior materials around round ducts can be difficult, particularly for masonry or cementitious finishes. In some construction methods, a fixed-length duct is installed through the structure with a protruding tail piece, and a block or trim component is later used to create rectangular or square surface for ease of installing the exterior finished surface. If the fixed-length duct is too short or too long relative to the exterior finish thickness, contractors may be unable to properly adjust the vent length, resulting in irregular openings or poor sealing.

Accordingly, existing vent assemblies and installation methods can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to installation errors. Multiple exterior penetrations increase the burden of sealing and weatherproofing, and each penetration introduces a potential point of failure in the building envelope.

In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for an improved vent assembly that simplifies installation, reduces exposure of vent openings during construction, enhances safety by minimizing exterior access requirements, and accommodates variations in exterior wall or roof construction while maintaining a reliable seal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following provides a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the present invention to facilitate a basic understanding of its features and advantages. This summary is not an exhaustive overview of all contemplated embodiments and is not intended to identify essential elements or define the full scope of the invention. It merely introduces certain concepts that are described in greater detail in the subsequent sections.

The principal object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly that can be installed entirely from inside a building without requiring exterior access.

Another object of the present invention is to prevent damage to exhaust ducts and associated insulation during construction, thereby reducing labor, time, and cost associated with repair or replacement.

Another object of the present invention is to eliminate the need for undesired alterations to building structures when replacing damaged exhaust ducts or insulation.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly that is simple, efficient, and safe to install.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly that is economical to manufacture and suitable for mass production.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly having built-in adjustability to accommodate different exterior wall or roof finishes and varying thicknesses thereof.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly including a rectangular or square-shaped venting tubes that facilitate easier cutting, fitting, and finishing of exterior construction materials.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly with an adjustable exhaust tube configured to be set flush with an exterior surface after installation of exterior finishing materials.

Another object of the present invention is to reduce the number of exhaust penetrations required through a building envelope.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vent assembly capable of combining multiple exhaust flows.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein, form part of the specification and illustrate embodiments of the present invention. Together with the description, the figures further explain the principles of the present invention and to enable a person skilled in the relevant arts to make and use the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a vent assembly mounted to an exterior wall and to a duct, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a vent member having a round duct portion and a rectangular vent portion, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a vent assembly including the vent member of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a planar view of the vent assembly of FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of the vent assembly of FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a vent cover for the vent assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates the vent assembly mounted to a wall with an exterior finish applied, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a modular vent assembly having two vent members (modules), according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates vent cover for the vent assembly of FIG. 8, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a mounting member for the vent assembly of FIG. 8, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the vent member that has multiple duct ports and the vent portion defining multiple chambers.

FIG. 12 illustrates a vent cover configured for multiple chambers, corresponding to the embodiment of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of the vent assembly.

FIG. 14 illustrates various configurations of vent assemblies, including one-piece multi-port assemblies and modular assemblies with interchangeable configurations.

FIG. 15 illustrates a vent assembly including a vent cap and an extension member, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a vent assembly including a telescoping extension member, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates a vent assembly configured for roof installation, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates the vent assembly of FIG. 17 further including a flapper.

FIG. 19 illustrates filling of dead spaces resulting from installation of the vent assembly of FIG. 17, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates the vent assembly installed in a roof, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates a modular vent assembly having three vent ports, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of the present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this disclosure and illustrate specific exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that the subject matter may be embodied in various forms and is not limited to the specific embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the invention. It is intended that the claims encompass a broad range of subject matter, including methods, devices, components, and systems. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not intended to be taken in a limiting sense.

As used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described as “exemplary” should not be construed as preferred or more advantageous over other embodiments. Similarly, the expression “embodiments of the present invention” does not imply that all embodiments must include all features, advantages, or modes of operation described.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The following detailed description sets forth the best currently contemplated modes for carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. This description is not intended to be limiting, but rather to illustrate the general principles of the invention. The claims of any issued patent will define the scope of the invention.

Disclosed is a vent assembly for a ventilation system of a building. The vent assembly is configured to secure insulated or non-insulated ducts to a roof deck or an exterior wall of the building and to provide fluid communication between an interior space and an exterior environment. The vent assembly may be used to direct exhaust air from inside the building to outside the building and, in certain embodiments, to direct intake air from outside the building into the building. The vent assembly may be configured as a single-port unit or as a multi-port unit having a plurality of duct connections. The multi-port vent assembly may be installed on a wall or roof of residential, multi-family, office, industrial, or commercial structures.

In certain embodiments, the vent assembly, with or without one or more vent caps, is configured to be installed entirely from inside the building. Installation from the interior reduces reliance on exterior access and mitigates risks and complications associated with exterior installation. The one or more vent caps may be integrated with the vent assembly and may comprise temporary caps, permanent caps, or combinations thereof. The vent assembly may further include an adjustability feature configured to accommodate different exterior wall or roof finishes and varying thicknesses thereof. In some embodiments, the vent assembly includes multiple duct ports configured to combine airflow from multiple ducts into a single exterior vent opening.

In certain embodiments, a vent portion of the vent assembly is formed in a polygonal shape, such as having a rectangular or square cross-section. Such shapes facilitate installation of exterior finishing materials, including brick, cement board, stucco, or siding, around the vent assembly. The integrated vent configuration further allows completion of vent installation from the interior of the building without requiring a subsequent exterior installation step for a vent cap.

Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic view of an exemplary adjustable vent assembly 100 is shown. FIG. 1 further illustrates a duct 10 aligned with a duct portion 115 of the vent assembly. The vent assembly 100 includes a vent member 105 forming a vent of the assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent member 105 has a tubular profile and includes a vent portion 110 and a duct portion 115. The vent portion 110 includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion extends between the proximal portion and the duct portion 115.

The Vent Assembly 100 Further Includes a Mounting Member 120

comprising a collar 125 and an integral flange 130 extending perpendicularly from a periphery of the collar 125. The flange 130 may be formed as a plate defining an opening, and the collar 125 may be formed by a skirt extending perpendicularly from a periphery of the opening. The size and shape of the collar 125 correspond to a size and shape of the vent member 105 such that the vent member 105 passes snugly through the collar 125.

In certain embodiments, the vent member 105 is slidably received within the collar 125 such that frictional engagement between the vent member 105 and the collar 125 maintains positional stability while permitting axial adjustment. An inner surface of the collar 125 and/or an outer surface of the vent member 105 may include a compliant sealing material to enhance friction and air-tight sealing. The soft material may be rubber or silicone, to enhance frictional engagement and sealing.

The vent portion 110 has a length sufficient to accommodate different exterior finish thicknesses. After installation of the vent assembly 100, the vent portion 110 may be moved axially to position the proximal end substantially flush with an exterior surface of the building.

A removable cap 135 is releasably coupled to an open end of the vent portion 110. The removable cap 135 has an outer dimension substantially equal to an outer dimension of the vent portion 110, thereby allowing the vent portion 110 and removable cap 135 to be inserted together through the penetration.

Although the vent portion 110 in FIG. 1 is illustrated as having a round tubular profile, the shape is not limited thereto. The vent portion 110 may alternatively have a polygonal cross-section, including rectangular or square shapes. Similarly, the duct portion 115 may be tubular or polygonal in shape, and any such configuration is within the scope of the present invention.

The mounting flange 130 and the collar 125 may have a matching shape corresponding to the vent portion 110. The collar 125 and vent portion 110 are configured to slide relative to one another with a friction fit. The length of the vent portion 110 may vary to accommodate different exterior finish thicknesses. In certain embodiments, the vent portion 110 is manufactured long enough to accommodate multiple exterior finishes, while in other embodiments the vent portion 110 is manufactured to a predetermined length corresponding to a specific exterior finish, such as vinyl siding, stucco, or brick.

As shown in FIG. 1, the vent assembly 100 may be inserted from inside the building through a pre-drilled penetration formed through a wall or roof structure. The mounting flange 130 may be secured to structural framing or sheathing using fasteners such as screws. The penetration may be slightly larger than an outer dimension of the vent portion 110 to allow insertion and adjustment. After exterior finishing is applied, the vent portion 110 is positioned flush or substantially flush with the exterior surface, and a permanent vent cap can be installed. It is to be noted that the permanent cap can replace the temporary cap, and the assembly with the temporary cap can be installed directly from inside of the building.

A flexible duct 10 extending from an exhaust fan may be connected to the duct portion 115 of the vent assembly 100. To preserve adjustability, the duct 10 is preferably a flexible duct, and in certain embodiments includes at least approximately twelve inches of flexible length. The flexible duct 10 may be slipped over the duct portion 115 and secured using an anti-slip ring and a fastener such as a zip tie 140. Additional sealing may be provided using foil tape or other suitable sealing tapes.

The removable cap 135 provides a waterproof seal that prevents ingress of water, moisture, debris, or dust into the duct 10 during construction. The removable cap 135 may be removed after installation of the exterior finish, at which time a permanent vent cap may be installed.

In certain embodiments, the duct portion 115 includes a tapered end that facilitates installation of the duct. Although the illustrated embodiment shows the duct installed over the duct portion 115, a rigid duct may alternatively be inserted into the duct portion 115. When a rigid duct is used, the vent assembly may be configured as a fixed-length assembly corresponding to a predetermined exterior finish thickness.

The mounting flange 130 may have a sufficient surface area to cover the penetration formed in exterior framing or sheathing and may include pre-formed openings for receiving fasteners.

After installation of the vent assembly 100, the vent portion 110 may be adjusted by pushing it inwardly to align flush with an exterior finish surface. A permanent vent cap may then be installed. The vent assembly 100 is compatible with commercially available vent caps, which typically include a round opening or a short duct segment for receiving exhaust flow.

The vent member 105 may be manufactured in various lengths and diameters to accommodate different framing thicknesses, exterior finishes, and duct sizes. The vent member 105 may be configured to connect with common duct sizes including, but not limited to, 4-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch ducts. Both rigid and flexible ducts, insulated or non-insulated, are within the scope of the present invention.

The components of the vent assembly may be formed from suitable materials including plastics, recycled plastics, fire-retardant polymers, sheet metal, cast metals, extruded metals, or combinations thereof.

Although the vent member 105 is described as adjustable in certain embodiments, fixed-length vent members are also within the scope of the present invention.

In alternative embodiments, ducts extending through the structure need not be round and may instead have rectangular, square, or other cross-sectional shapes.

Referring to FIG. 2, an alternative embodiment of a vent member 200 is illustrated. The vent member 200 includes a vent portion 205 and a duct portion 210. The vent portion 205 has a cuboidal profile defining a rectangular opening 220 and is configured to extend at least partially outside a building structure. The duct portion 210 has a tubular profile and is configured to remain inside the structure.

The duct portion 210 includes one or more anti-slip rings 215 disposed around an outer surface thereof. The duct portion 210 is configured to receive a round rigid duct or a flexible duct commonly used in building ventilation systems.

The rectangular or square shape of the vent portion allows the use of rectangular or square shape vent caps. The polygonal shaped vent portion and vent opening may offer certain advantages over the typical round ducts in certain situations. One advantage is that the exterior finishes or products like brick, stone or different siding materials are much easier to cut and install around a rectangular or square shape vent opening compared with round penetrations. Currently to create a nice and tight finish around the round tube, contractors install a separate square or rectangular wood or composite block that is larger than the round tube/duct with center hole matching the tube size. Purpose of using this block is to create a cosmetically nice finish from outside. It is exceedingly difficult to cut exterior materials in a round shape and have a cosmetically nice fit and finish on outside. This disclosed vent assembly takes advantage of the desired polygonal shape and utilizes rectangular or square shaped vents that can be integrated with the rectangular or square shaped tube/duct. In one design, the size of the rectangular vent portion may be made to match the size of a brick, so it becomes less visible.

The current vent caps in the market disturb the exterior finish surfaces and are unsightly and not desirable to have. FIG. 3, shows an implementation of the vent assembly 300 that may have an exterior vent cap integrated with the vent portion and have the adjustable feature. This feature allows one-time installation of the vent assembly with integrated vent cap from inside the structure at once. Thus, eliminating several steps in installing vent caps later from outside by different contractors. The installation method is like the previous steps which is by making a hole slightly larger than the vent portion and the vent cap, and pushing the vent assembly through the penetrations. Thereafter, securing the vent assembly 300 to the structure by mechanically securing the flange to the exterior wall.

The vent assembly includes a vent member 305 and a mounting member 310. The vent member 305 includes a vent portion 315 and a duct portion 320. The duct portion 320 has a round cross-section and is configured to connect to round ducts commonly used in ventilation systems. The duct portion 320 includes one or more spaced-apart anti-slip rings configured to inhibit movement of a duct secured thereto. In alternative embodiments, the duct portion 320 may have a polygonal cross-section, including rectangular or square shapes.

The vent portion 315 has a hollow rectangular profile and includes one or more rows of spaced-apart indentations 325 formed along opposing side walls of the vent portion 315. The mounting member 310 includes a flange 330 defining a central opening sized to receive the vent portion 315.

The mounting member 310 further includes a pair of tabs 335 extending from opposing sides of the flange 330. The tabs 335 are positioned to selectively engage corresponding indentations 325 of the vent portion 315. Engagement of the tabs 335 with the indentations 325 restricts axial movement of the vent portion 315 relative to the mounting member 310.

The vent portion 315 is configured to slide axially relative to the mounting member 310 prior to engagement of the tabs 335, thereby allowing adjustment of a protruding length of the vent portion 315. This adjustability allows the vent opening to be positioned flush or substantially flush with an exterior finish applied after installation.

FIGS. 4 and 5 shows individual components of the vent assembly 300. Vent portion 315 is configured to extend through a penetration formed in a wall from an interior side of the structure. The mounting member 310 remains inside the structure and is secured to structural members using fasteners. Exterior finishing materials can contact an exterior-facing surface of the vent portion 315. The vent member 305 is slidably received through the mounting member 310.

The mounting member 310 includes one or more flexible tabs 335 extending from opposing sides thereof. Each tab 335 includes a row of protrusions. The vent portion 315 includes a plurality of spaced-apart indentations 325 formed along an outer surface thereof. Each protrusion is configured to selectively engage a corresponding indentation to fix an axial position of the vent member 305 relative to the mounting member 310. The tabs 335 are resiliently deformable to permit disengagement and repositioning of the vent member 305. Alternative adjustability mechanisms are also within the scope of the present invention.

The vent assembly 300 further includes a vent cap 336 configured to be mounted to the vent portion 315 of the vent member 305. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent cap 336 includes a sloped front surface and a lower opening covered by a mesh 340. The mesh 340 is configured to inhibit ingress of debris or animals into the vent member 305. The vent cap 336 further includes a flapper 345 pivotally mounted thereto to permit one-way airflow toward an exterior of the building.

It is to be noted that the opening of the vent cap and thus the mesh may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention and may depend upon the orientation of the exhaust port.

The vent cap 336 may be attached to the vent member 305 prior to insertion of the vent assembly 300 through the penetration, thereby allowing installation of the vent assembly and vent cap as a single unit from inside the structure. The vent cap 336 may be configured as a permanent cap and may be positioned flush or substantially flush with the vent portion 315. The rectangular shape of the vent portion 315 facilitates integration with exterior finishing materials. In case of traditional round vent tubes, it is harder to cut exterior materials like stone, brick, or wood to corresponding round shape. The rectangular shape of the vent portion solves this problem.

Referring to FIG. 4, the duct portion 320 has a round cross-section and transitions to the vent portion 315 having a rectangular cross-section. In certain embodiments, the vent assembly further includes one or more extension members configured to increase an effective length of the vent portion 315. Each extension member may have a size and shape corresponding to the vent portion 315 and may be configured to receive the vent cap 336. The extension members may be provided in different lengths to accommodate varying exterior finish thicknesses. In multi-port embodiments, the extension members may include internal partitions corresponding to multiple chambers of a multi-compartment vent cap and/or vent portion.

The vent cap 336 is removable and may be formed from different materials and provided in different colors to match an exterior finish. The vent cap 336 may be installed as part of the vent assembly prior to exterior finishing, thereby reducing or eliminating a subsequent painting or installation step.

Referring to FIG. 6, one embodiment of the vent cap 336 includes snap-fit tabs configured to releasably engage the vent portion 315 or an extension member. In alternative embodiments, the vent cap 336 may be secured using fasteners or other attachment mechanisms. The vent cap 336 may be positioned flush with the vent portion 315 or may be positioned partially inside or outside the vent portion 315. An overall outer dimension of the vent cap 336 and vent portion 315 determines a size of the penetration formed in the exterior surface.

Referring to FIG. 7, the vent assembly 300 is illustrated mounted to a structure 20 and extending through an exterior finish 30. The vent cap 336 includes a flapper configured to permit one-way airflow from an interior of the structure to an exterior of the structure and to close in the absence of exhaust airflow. In alternative embodiments, the flapper may be omitted or removed to permit intake airflow. The flapper may be positioned within the vent cap 336, within the vent member 305, or at another location along an airflow path of the vent assembly.

In certain buildings, multiple ventilation ducts are routed to the exterior of the structure, resulting in multiple penetrations through exterior walls or a roof. In certain embodiments, the vent assembly includes a multi-port configuration configured to connect a plurality of ducts to a single exterior vent opening, thereby reducing a number of penetrations formed through the exterior wall or roof. The multi-port configuration allows one or more ducts to be selectively connected to the vent assembly. In such embodiments, unused duct ports may be sealed from an interior side of the structure to permit future connection without forming additional exterior penetrations. The vent portion having a rectangular cross-section further facilitates installation of exterior finishing materials around the vent opening.

Referring to FIG. 8, a modular multi-port vent assembly 400 is illustrated. The vent assembly 400 includes a plurality of vent members combined to form a single vent assembly. The vent assembly 400 further includes a mounting member 430 defining a plurality of openings, wherein each opening is configured to receive a corresponding vent member. In certain embodiments, the vent assembly 400 includes an integrated vent cap 440.

The modular vent assembly 400 may be formed by coupling two or more single vent members to the mounting member and by attaching a vent cover defining a corresponding plurality of ports, such that each port aligns with a respective vent member. The modular vent assembly 400 may be configured in various combinations, examples of which are illustrated in FIG. 14.

In certain embodiments, adjustability of the modular vent assembly 400 is provided by vent members having increased length that are slidably received relative to the mounting member, or by providing one or more extension members coupled to a vent portion of one or more vent members. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the extension members may be provided as extension rings disposed at an open end of the vent portion.

The extension rings may be stacked to incrementally increase a length of the vent portion or may be configured as telescoping members. In telescoping embodiments, one or more extension rings are slidably engaged with one another using a friction fit to permit axial extension, as illustrated in FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 8, a modular vent assembly 400 is illustrated including an upper module 410, a lower module 420, and a mounting member 430. Each of the modules 410 and 420 may be structurally similar to the vent member 305 of the vent assembly 300 described above. Referring to FIG. 9, the vent cap 440 configured for use with the vent assembly 400 is illustrated. The vent cap 440 defines two ports corresponding to vent openings of the upper module 410 and the lower module 420. The vent cap 440 is configured to be secured to the modules 410 and 420. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent cap 440 includes side tabs 450 configured to engage corresponding openings or tabs formed in the vent members of the modules 410 and 420. Alternative attachment mechanisms are also within the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 10, the mounting member 430 is illustrated. The mounting member 430 defines a first opening 460 and a second opening 470 configured to receive the upper module 410 and the lower module 420, respectively. Each of the openings 460 and 470 includes a collar 480 configured to receive a corresponding module in a slip-fit arrangement to permit axial adjustment.

Although the illustrated embodiment includes two modules 410 and 420, the vent assembly may include two or more modules. The number, arrangement, and relative positioning of the modules may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. Correspondingly, the mounting member and vent cap may be configured to match a selected number and arrangement of modules.

A procedure for assembling a two-port modular vent assembly includes positioning a two-port mounting member over two single vent members and sliding the mounting member toward respective duct portions until further axial movement is restricted by engagement with the mounting member. A two-port vent cover is then aligned with vent openings of the two vent members and secured thereto. The vent cover may be secured to the vent members using one or more attachment mechanisms, including friction-fit tabs, snap-fit features, adhesive bonding, mechanical fasteners, or combinations thereof. The modular vent assembly allows multiple exhaust ducts to be routed through a single exterior penetration.

Modular vent assemblies may alternatively be formed using other coupling configurations. For example, individual vent members may include complementary male and female grooves, tabs, or mating features configured to permit the vent members to slidably engage with one another to form a multi-port assembly.

Referring to FIG. 11, another embodiment of a vent member 500 is illustrated. The vent member 500 is similar to the vent member 305 of the vent assembly 300, except that the vent portion 505 of the vent member 500 is divided into a plurality of separate chambers 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent member 500 includes three chambers 510, and a duct portion divided into three duct ports 515, 520, and 525. Each duct port corresponds to a respective chamber. Three ducts from three different exhaust sources may be connected to the three duct ports 515, 520, and 525, such that exhaust airflow from each duct is directed through a corresponding chamber.

A vent cover may be adapted for use with the vent member 500. For example, referring to FIG. 12, a vent cover 530 is illustrated having three openings corresponding to the three chambers 510 of the vent member 500.

Referring to FIG. 13, an adjustable multi-port vent assembly 600 is illustrated. The vent assembly 600 includes a vent member 605 that is structurally similar to the vent member 500 illustrated in FIG. 11. The vent assembly 600 further includes a mounting member 610 configured to slide over the vent member 605 and to be selectively locked in a desired axial position relative thereto, as described above with respect to vent assembly 300.

The vent member 605 includes a vent portion 615 and a duct portion 620. The duct portion 620 is divided into a plurality of duct ports, which in the illustrated embodiment includes three duct ports, each configured to receive a separate duct. The vent portion 615 defines a corresponding plurality of internal chambers, each chamber being in fluid communication with a respective duct port.

The vent assembly 600 further includes an integrated vent cover 625 configured to be coupled to the vent member 605. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent cover 625 is releasably secured to the vent member 605 using snap tabs. The vent cover 625 is divided into a plurality of sections corresponding to the plurality of chambers of the vent portion 615, such that airflow from each chamber is exhausted separately and cross-flow between chambers is inhibited.

The vent cover 625 may be coupled to the vent member 605 prior to installation of the vent assembly 600 through a penetration formed in a wall or roof. A mesh cover 630 may also be coupled to the vent cover 625 prior to installation. The mesh cover 630 is configured to inhibit ingress of debris or animals into the vent assembly 600.

Referring to FIG. 15, a modified embodiment of the vent assembly 600 is illustrated. The vent assembly 600 includes one or more extension members 635 configured to be coupled to the vent member 605. The vent cap 625 is configured to be mounted to an outermost one of the vent member 605 or the extension member 635. The extension members 635 may be selectively added to increase the effective length of the vent assembly 600 to accommodate varying thicknesses of exterior finish materials.

Referring to FIG. 16, another embodiment of a vent assembly 700 is illustrated. The vent assembly 700 includes a vent member 705, a mounting member 710, and a vent cap 715. The mounting member 710 may be fixedly coupled to the vent member 705.

The vent assembly 700 includes a telescopic extension member 720. The telescopic extension member 720 may be formed integrally with the vent member 705 or may be a separate component coupled thereto. The telescopic extension member 720 is configured to permit adjustment of an effective length of the vent member 705 to correspond to a thickness of a wall or roof structure and an exterior finish applied thereto. The length of the telescopic extension member 720 may be adjusted after installation of the vent assembly 700.

The vent cap 715 is configured to be mounted to the telescopic extension member 720 and may be coupled thereto prior to insertion of the vent assembly 700 through penetration formed in the wall or roof. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer dimension of the vent cap 715 corresponds to an outer dimension of the vent member 705 such that the vent cap 715 and the vent member 705 are flush or substantially flush relative to one another. This configuration permits installation of the vent cap 715 prior to installation of the vent assembly 700 while allowing the penetration size to correspond to the vent member 705.

In multi-port embodiments, the vent cap 715 includes a plurality of sections corresponding to a plurality of duct ports of the vent member 705. Each section of the vent cap 715 may include a respective flapper configured to permit one-way airflow. The configuration maintains separation of exhaust airflow from each duct port through the vent assembly to an exterior of the structure.

In the embodiments described above, a vent assembly including an integrated vent cap may be installed as a single unit during a rough-in stage of construction and secured in place from an interior of the structure. The vent assembly may be adjusted to correspond to a thickness of an exterior finish. In embodiments configured to connect multiple exhaust ducts to a single vent assembly, a plurality of exhaust ducts may be routed through a single exterior penetration.

In certain embodiments, the vent cap is installed during the rough-in stage together with the vent assembly. In alternative embodiments, the vent assembly is installed first, and a vent cap is installed or replaced at a later stage from an exterior side of the structure. Both installation approaches are within the scope of the present invention.

The vent assembly may be configured to receive vent caps that have different colors or finishes corresponding to an exterior finish of the structure.

Referring to FIG. 14, various configurations of vent assemblies are illustrated, including one-piece multi-port assemblies and modular assemblies. Other configurations and combinations are also within the scope of the present invention.

Installation of a single-port vent assembly and a multi-port vent assembly may be performed using the same installation procedure. In multi-port embodiments, the vent assembly is configured to route multiple exhaust ducts through a single exterior penetration. Each duct port of the multi-port vent assembly may include one or more anti-slip rings and is configured to receive a standard exhaust duct connected to a respective exhaust source.

For roof and wall venting applications, the vent assembly may be configured as a single-port assembly, as illustrated in FIG. 17, or as a multi-port assembly, as illustrated in FIG. 21. In certain roof-mounted embodiments, an adjustability feature may be omitted, and the vent member may be manufactured with a fixed length corresponding to a thickness of roofing materials or roof structures. In such embodiments, a flange and the vent member may be formed as an integral, one-piece component.

For wall-mounted embodiments, the vent member may be manufactured with a fixed length or with an extended length to permit adjustability for different exterior wall finishes and thicknesses. Other components of the vent assembly may remain the same, including a vent cap, a flapper, and a grill. The vent cap may be formed from durable materials suitable for exterior exposure.

The disclosed vent assembly may be used in wall-mounted and roof-mounted venting applications. Referring to FIG. 17, a vent assembly 800 configured for roof installation is illustrated. In this embodiment, the vent assembly 800 includes a vent cap 810 configured to reduce visual prominence of roof-mounted vents when viewed from an exterior of the structure.

In certain installations, multiple roof penetrations are formed to accommodate multiple exhaust ducts. In such embodiments, a multi-port vent assembly, such as that illustrated in FIG. 21, may be used to route multiple exhaust ducts through a reduced number of roof penetrations. The multi-port configuration reduces a number of vent openings formed through a roofing surface.

The vent assembly disclosed herein includes a vent cap configured to reduce visual prominence when installed on a roof surface. In embodiments including a vent member having a rectangular cross-section, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a penetration formed through the roof may have an elongated shape with a reduced width. In such configurations, the vent cap has a reduced projection height relative to the roof surface. As illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, the vent cap may include an elongated or curved profile configured to extend generally parallel to the roof surface. In certain embodiments, the vent cap may be configured to receive roofing materials, including asphalt shingles or other roofing coverings, to allow the vent assembly to visually integrate with the surrounding roof surface.

Referring to FIG. 17, a roof-mounted vent assembly 800 is illustrated. The vent assembly 800 includes a vent member 805 having a rectangular cross-section and extending through a roof sheathing 40. A roof vent cap 810 is positioned over an open end of the vent member 805. The open end of the vent member 805 protrudes a distance above an exterior roof surface sufficient to inhibit ingress of rainwater into the vent member 805.

The vent cap 810 defines an internal volume sufficient to permit exhaust airflow from the vent member 805 to an exterior of the structure. In certain embodiments, the vent opening includes a mesh configured to inhibit ingress of debris or animals. In applications involving dryer exhaust, the mesh may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 18, the vent assembly 800 may further include a flapper 815 configured to restrict backflow of outside air into the structure. The flapper 815 may be positioned adjacent to the vent opening, in front of the mesh when present, or within the vent member 805. Alternative flapper locations along an airflow path of the vent assembly 800 are also within the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 18, one or more spaces 42 are defined between portions of the vent cap and the vent member, thereby forming dead spaces that contribute to an eyebrow-shaped profile of the vent cap. In alternative embodiments, the vent cap may have a rectangular shape configured to cover the vent member, as illustrated in FIG. 20. In certain embodiments, a single vent cap may be configured to cover multiple exhaust ports. As illustrated in FIG. 19, the dead spaces 42 may be filled with a filler material.

Referring to FIG. 20, the vent cap 905 is configured to extend a limited distance above a roof surface such that roofing materials may be applied over the vent cap 905 to visually blend with surrounding roofing surfaces. The vent cap 905 has sufficient length and width to permit exhaust airflow from the vent member to an exterior of the structure. The vent cap 905 may be formed from metal, plastic, composite materials, or combinations thereof.

The vent cap 905 includes flashing 915 extending from one or more sides thereof and configured to rest on roof sheathing to facilitate a waterproof installation. Roofing materials 44 may be applied over the flashing 915 and the vent cap 905 using adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or combinations thereof. Referring further to FIG. 20, the vent assembly may include a flapper 910 configured to restrict backflow of outside air into the vent member.

Flashing material may be disposed around the vent assembly during roofing installation to inhibit water ingress and provide a waterproof seal. The roof vent cap is not limited to a rectangular or eyebrow-shaped configuration and may have other shapes, including curved, semi-circular, polygonal, or multi-angled shapes.

Referring to FIG. 21, a vent assembly 1000 is illustrated. The vent assembly 1000 is similar to the roof-mounted vent assembly 800 described above, except that the vent assembly 1000 is configured as a multi-port module. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent assembly 1000 includes three chambers and three corresponding duct ports. A vent cap is provided having three sections corresponding to the three chambers, such that airflow from each duct port is maintained separately through the vent assembly.

While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.