I read some of the crude remarks on the other forum.
If you would have paid a sizable amount of money but yet far cheaper than a K&N you installed, some of the ignoramuses dissing your idea may be on board. Or perhaps if "they" thought of it they'd be boasting it up. I have seen some pictures on there of some gaudy mods some have done yet your idea makes much more sense.
If it works that's all that matters. You did a nice job. The heat shield will further improve it. Ignorance is bliss, or isn't it?