Air Conditioner Window Panel
Clear polycarbonate panel to enable installation of portable air conditioner in apartment window. Bids were solicited from local plastic suppliers for the 1/2" UV-resistant polycarbonate sheet. The material thickness was chosen to minimize street noise transmission to the interior and polycarbonate was chosen for its shatter resistance in the case of a bird strike or installation difficulties. Intake and exhaust vent hoods were added to the exterior of the panel to connect insulated ductwork to maximize air conditioner efficiency. The panel was designed symmetrically in the vertical axis to accommodate two windows of the same size which opened in opposite direction, providing maximum flexibility. The exhaust and intake vents were also designed to be swappable, so hot exhaust air always left the top vent no matter the panel orientation. The clear panel was chosen to not disrupt the external appearance of the building and to provide light to the interior. Clips positively secured the panel to the window and a foam rubber gasket (along with the vents) made the panel watertight, so it could be left in place during periods of rain.