Update 2022-07-19: There's now a generic version of the vent adapter which attaches using zip ties, and two different nozzles (45 degrees and 60 degrees).
This is an adapter system that clips on to the rear centre console vent and connects to a 3" flexible duct, bringing air to the back of the car to provide ventilation for two children in rearward-facing car seats.
There are four versions of the piece that attaches to the vent:
- Golf Mk7 (tested on NAR 2020 Golf, updated 2022-07-24)
- Tiguan 2nd Gen Facelift (tested on NAR 2021 Tiguan)
- Generic 140mm x 100mm, attaches with zip ties
- Generic 180mm x 100mm, attaches with zip ties
The design is parameterized and easy to modify, so if you're able to take measurements please message me and we can work together to create an adapter for your car.
You'll need this additional material:
- Flexible duct (I used Dundas Jafine FD38EZW, which was about CAD 7 at Home Depot)
- Weatherstrip seal for the vent clip part, ½" thick (I used a Duck Brand ¾"x½"x10ft self adhesive foam weatherstrip which I purchased at Amazon.ca)
- Zip ties (two 14" ones should do)
Printing instructions:
- Print all pieces in an appropriate material that will handle the temperatures in your car. I used PETG. Don't use PLA, it will likely melt.
- Print the appropriate vent adapter for your car as oriented in the .stl file.
- Print the splitter as oriented in the .stl file. The overhang on the splitter at the very top of the exit nozzles might look ugly depending on how you printed it, but it will work fine.
- Choose the nozzle angle you'd like (you can mix and match). Print one for each side as oriented in the .stl file. (If you'd like another angle or size, let me know and I can easily upload that.) The picture shows the 60 degree one, which I find works very well.
Assembly instructions:
- Attach the weatherstripping to the vent adapter (use picture for reference).
- For the Golf/Tiguan adapters:
- Thread the flexible duct to the vent adapter (this might be a tight squeeze but it should work with a 3" duct if you're persistent).
- Carefully clip the vent adapter onto the rear centre console vent, making sure the vanes are straight (and that the vent is fully open). This is deliberately a tight fit.
- For the generic adapters:
- Thread the zip ties from cabin side top holes, then pass them around the vent vanes (use a tool with a hook to fetch it from behind the vanes). Pass the zip ties back through the adapter and secure them loosely.
- Thread the flexible duct to the vent adapter (this might be a tight squeeze but it should work with a 3" duct if you're persistent).
- Tighten and secure the zip ties, clipping any extra length. (Use flush diagonal clippers for a smooth finish.)
- Thread the flexible duct to the splitter.
- Rotate the splitter until the duct is oriented the way you like in your car.
- Hang the splitter off the pull tab for the rear seat centre arm rest (you'll have more length to work with if you pull the armrest down during assembly). Refer to the picture for what it should look like. You can also just thread a cord or Velcro through there and attach it any way you like.
- Position the angled nozzles as you like (it will lock into position in 15 degree increments) and push firmly into the splitter.
Design notes and background:
- There is a commercial product that does this, but I found their vent adapter was too generic and didn't make a good seal. Which is why they try to sell you a powered fan along with it. Also, it didn't have a splitter for two children. This entire design was less expensive than buying the commercial one (including test prints and broken clips).
- The vent adapter is highly customized to each car so that it's a tight fit and has almost no airflow loss.
- The grid on the nozzles provides some protection against the children shoving things inside. The real reason it's there is to provide more build plate adhesion so the part stays in place as it's printing. Also, the entire Prusa community has seemed to latch on to the hex grid as a design element.
- Open the centre console carefully. Depending on how you have it positioned, you may hit the adapter.
- I measured 4.8 m/s airflow at the end of the 8 ft duct (before going into the splitter).
Child safety notes:
- You are responsible for your child's safety. At a minimum, I strongly recommend that you make sure no part of this is within their reach or interferes with any part of the car seat or other safety systems in your vehicle.
Adam
