Hatch vent options

[n3nowham]

So, our 26X came with a solar vent in the forward hatch. We have a portable AC that we use when on shore power and vent out the hatch with some custom cut plexiglass panels. I decided to try my hand at 3D modelling and printing. I designed a vent that goes into the existing hole used by the fan as well as some other accessories for when we aren't using the AC. This means we won't be required to have the hatch open when on AC. The "design" was done in Fusion 360. I welcome feedback and offer the files to anyone interested. Be advised, this is still a "beta" for me as I haven't had a chance to test it on the boat (still in storage).

Duct.jpg

Duct - covers shown.jpg

[Russ]

Welcome to the forum.

I'm not sure I understand the design. What is the curved bottom part curved for?

[n3nowham]

That's an interior vent duct for when we don't run the AC and just want a dorade effect. I also created a straight connector to just let air blow straight down into the boat.

[Russ]

So your AC vents through this piece?

The design looks fancy. You need to post pics of it installed.

[n3nowham]

That's the plan. I figured I'ld give myself options for a vent also. I'll definitely post pics of the installation. The pieces screw together through the hole with a lock nut. This seemed like the easiest way to accommodate hatch thickness and allow some direction adjustment.

[kmclemore]

Interesting design. I note that it's threaded, with what appears to be a lock-nut collar? Threads can sometimes be a bear to 3D print.

Also, I note there's no dorade box or way to drain off incoming water, in the event of operation during inclement weather. Would you just remove it and plug the hole in that instance?

[n3nowham]

We haven't had any issues with the solar vent, so I figured worst case would be to reinstall that if the weather looks too bad. Threads just add fun to the challenge. There will likely be tweaks to get them to work correctly. I did think about a dorade box also, but honestly that was more than I wanted to tackle at this time. I'm hoping the angle snd grill will be mostly adequate for our sailing.

[n3nowham]

I finally did some updates to the hatch duct. I reduced and simplified. I redesigned the inside ductwork to be quick change and swivel. I was able to design an adapter for the room A/C unit to exhaust through easily without opening the hatch. There are also caps the can be put on the inside and outside portions of the dorade box.

As always, I welcome questions/feedback. I really enjoy the designing and 3D printing.