U.S. patent application number 12/079532 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-23 for performance enhancement product for an air conditioner.
Invention is credited to Theodore William Mettier.
Application Number | 20080256963 12/079532 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39870848 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080256963 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mettier; Theodore William |
October 23, 2008 |
Performance enhancement product for an air conditioner
Abstract
A performance enhancement device is disclosed comprising a
chimney that is secured to an upward-facing air exhaust of the
condenser unit of an air conditioning system for directing the hot
air discharged from the condenser away from the air conditioning
system. A sun screened enclosure may also be utilized for at least
partially surrounding the condenser unit and protecting it from
solar radiation. When used in conjunction with the chimney, the
chimney extends above the uppermost extent of the sun screened
enclosure. One or more misting nozzles may be disposed within the
sun screened enclosure for dispersing a water mist within the
enclosure. The misting nozzles may be controlled individually, or
in groups. The performance enhancement device may comprise a sensor
for sensing the operating state of the air conditioning system and
the ambient temperature proximate to the condensing unit and a
controller for receiving the operating state and temperature
information and, based on the information, activating one or more
misting nozzles. An activation sequence may be employed in which
the number of activated misting nozzles is based on the ambient
temperature information.
Inventors: |
Mettier; Theodore William;
(Hazlet, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RUDOLPH J. BUCHEL JR., LAW OFFICE OF
P. O. BOX 702526
DALLAS
TX
75370-2526
US
|
Family ID: |
39870848 |
Appl. No.: |
12/079532 |
Filed: |
March 27, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60913003 |
Apr 20, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/183 ; 62/171;
62/314; 62/336 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F28B 1/06 20130101; F25B
2339/041 20130101; F28F 9/00 20130101; F25B 39/04 20130101; F25B
2700/2106 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/183 ; 62/314;
62/336; 62/171 |
International
Class: |
F28B 3/00 20060101
F28B003/00; F25B 39/00 20060101 F25B039/00 |
Claims
1. A performance enhancement device for an air conditioning system,
wherein the air conditioning system comprises a condenser unit with
an air intake for drawing air into the air conditioning system and
an upward-facing air exhaust for exhausting warm air from the air
conditioning system, the performance enhancement device comprising:
a chimney coupled to the air exhaust of the condenser unit.
2. The performance enhancement device in claim 1, further
comprising: a sun screened enclosure to protect the condenser unit
from solar radiation.
3. The performance enhancement device in claim 2, wherein the sun
screened enclosure further comprising: a sun screen material; and a
plurality of vents.
4. The performance enhancement device in claim 3, wherein the
plurality of vents are one of within the sun screen material, below
the sun screen material, defined by a lower edge of the sun screen
material and ground, and above the suns screen material.
5. The performance enhancement device in claim 4, wherein the
chimney extends above the sun screened enclosure.
6. The performance enhancement device in claim 4, wherein the
chimney extends above the sun screened enclosure by at least four
inches.
7. The performance enhancement device in claim 3, wherein the
chimney extends above the sun screened enclosure.
8. The performance enhancement device in claim 3, wherein the
chimney extends above the sun screened enclosure by at least four
inches.
9. The performance enhancement device in claim 7, further
comprising: a fluid line for receiving water from a water source;
and a misting nozzle coupled to the fluid line and disposed within
the sun screened enclosure for disbursing a water mist within the
sun screened enclosure.
10. The performance enhancement device in claim 9, further
comprising: a solenoid valve for regulating water between the
misting nozzle and the water source.
11. The performance enhancement device in claim 7, further
comprising: a first misting zone comprising: a first fluid line for
receiving water from a water source; and a first misting nozzle
coupled to the first fluid line and disposed within the sun
screened enclosure for disbursing a water mist within the sun
screened enclosure; and a second misting zone comprising: a second
fluid line for receiving water from the water source; and a second
misting nozzle coupled to the second fluid line and disposed within
the sun screened enclosure for disbursing a water mist within the
sun screened enclosure.
12. The performance enhancement device in claim 11, wherein the
first misting zone further comprises a first solenoid valve for
regulating fluid between the first nozzle and the water source, and
wherein the second misting zone further comprises a second solenoid
valve for regulating fluid between the second nozzle and the water
source.
13. The performance enhancement device in claim 10, further
comprising: a cycle sensor for sensing an indicator to a current
state of the air conditioning system; and a controller electrically
coupled between the cycle sensor and the solenoid valve for
receiving state indicators from the cycle sensor and transmitting
an activation signal to the solenoid valve in response.
14. The performance enhancement device in claim 12, further
comprising: a cycle sensor for sensing an indicator to a current
state of the air conditioning system; a temperature sensor for
monitoring ambient temperature of air proximate to the condenser
unit; a controller electrically coupled between the cycle sensor,
the temperature sensor and the first and second solenoid valves for
receiving state indicators from the cycle sensor and ambient
temperature information from the temperature sensor and
transmitting a first activation signal to the first solenoid valve
based on a comparison of the temperature information to a first
temperature threshold.
15. The performance enhancement device in claim 14, wherein the
controller transmits a second activation signal to the second
solenoid valve based on a comparison of the temperature information
to a second temperature threshold, wherein the second temperature
threshold is greater than the first temperature threshold.
16. The performance enhancement device in claim 9, wherein one of
the fluid line and misting nozzle is attached to the sun screened
enclosure.
17. The performance enhancement device in claim 9, further
comprising: a filter coupled between the fluid line and the water
source.
18. The performance enhancement device in claim 3, wherein the sun
screened enclosure further comprising: a frame structure.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to U.S. Provisional Ser. No.
60/913,003 filed Apr. 20, 2007, entitled Performance Enhancement
Product for an Air Conditioner, which is incorporated by reference
herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to air conditioning.
More particularly, the present invention relates to a system for
enhancing the performance of a condenser unit for an air
conditioner.
[0003] While moving heat via machinery to provide air conditioning
is a relatively modern invention, the cooling of buildings is not.
The ancient Egyptians were known to circulate aqueduct water
through the walls of certain houses to cool them. As this sort of
water usage was expensive, generally only the wealthy could afford
such a luxury. Fortunately, most modern homes in the United States
have some type of air conditioner system.
[0004] The modern air conditioner is a system designed to extract
heat from an area or provide heat to an area using a refrigeration
cycle. These systems operate on a refrigeration cycle, wherein a
heat pump transfers heat from a lower temperature area source into
a higher temperature area, in opposition to the natural flow of
heat. An air conditioning system typically comprises four main
components: a high pressure condenser unit for circulating a
refrigerant and exhausting heat from the refrigerant into the
higher temperature area; a low pressure evaporator unit for
circulating the refrigerant and absorbing heat from the lower
temperature area into the refrigerant; a compressor unit coupled
between the low pressure evaporator unit and the high pressure
condenser unit for pressurizing the refrigerant; and a thermostatic
expansion valve, or the like, coupled between the high pressure
condenser unit and the low pressure evaporator unit for metering
pressurized refrigerant into the evaporator at a low pressure,
thereby evaporating and enabling the refrigerant to absorb heat
from the lower temperature area. The most common uses of modern air
conditioners are for comfort cooling. Comfort cooling aims to
provide an indoor environment that remains in a relatively constant
temperature range despite changes in external weather conditions or
in internal heat loads.
[0005] Although there are many types of air conditioning systems
known in the prior art, one particular type is known as a split
system air conditioner in which the high pressure condenser unit,
and usually the compressor unit, is in one location (often in the
lower temperature area, indoors), and the low pressure evaporator
unit, and usually the thermostatic expansion valve, is in a second
location (often in the higher temperature area, outdoors). A
typical split system air conditioning unit is designed to maintain
the lower temperature area at a comfortable temperature, for
instance 75.degree. F. In operation, the air conditioning unit
cycles ON and OFF whenever the temperature of the indoor area is
outside a preset operating window, for instance between 74.degree.
F. and 78.degree. F. An automatic control senses the temperature in
the indoor area. If it is above 78.degree. F. for instance, the
compressor unit cycles ON and the compressor unit is activated to
circulate refrigerant between the low pressure evaporator unit and
the high pressure condenser unit. During the ON cycle, a blower fan
will circulate warmer air from the indoor area across cooling coils
in the evaporator unit and back into the indoor area at a
substantially lower temperature. Simultaneously during the ON
cycle, a fan will circulate outdoor air across coils in the
condenser unit and exhaust it at a much higher temperature. When
the automatic control system senses that the temperature in the
indoor area has fallen sufficiently, below 74.degree. F. for
instance, the compressor unit cycles OFF and the refrigerant ceases
circulating.
[0006] Many factors influence the systems ability to efficiently
maintain a comfortable temperature in the indoor area. For
instance, the ambient temperature in the indoor area; the volume of
the indoor area being cooled; the amount of heat entering the
indoor area; and the ambient outdoor temperature. Some of these
factors can be ameliorated by the operator; such as by thermally
sealing doors and windows in the indoor area and constructing the
area with walls, attics and windows having radiant barriers, and by
selecting the properly sized air conditioning system for the size
of the indoor area to be cooled and for the geographic location.
All too often, however, a prior art air conditioning unit will
cycle ON and the compressor unit will run continuously without
cycling OFF so long as the ambient outside air remains above
90.degree. F. Furthermore, as the ambient outdoor temperature
increases above 90.degree. F., the unit will no longer be capable
of maintaining the indoor temperature at a comfortable level, even
with the unit continuously running.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention is directed to a performance
enhancement device for use with an air conditioning system, wherein
the air conditioning system comprises a condenser unit with an air
intake for drawing air into the air conditioning system and an
upward-facing air exhaust for exhausting hot air from the air
conditioning system. The performance enhancement device comprises a
chimney that is secured to the upward-facing air exhaust of the
condenser unit for directing the hot air discharged from the
condenser away from the air conditioning system. The performance
enhancement device further comprises a sun screened enclosure for
at least partially surrounding the condenser unit and protecting it
from solar radiation. When used in conjunction with the chimney,
the chimney extends above the uppermost extent of the sun screened
enclosure. One or more misting nozzles may be disposed within the
sun screened enclosure for dispersing a water mist within the
enclosure. The misting, nozzles may be controlled individually, or
in groups. Finally, the performance enhancement device may comprise
a sensor for sensing the operating state of the air conditioning
system and the ambient temperature proximate to the condensing unit
and a controller for receiving the operating state and temperature
information and, based on the information, activating one or more
misting nozzles. An activation sequence may be employed in which
the number of activated misting nozzles is based on the ambient
temperature information.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The novel features believed characteristic of the present
invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention
itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further
objectives and advantages thereof, will be best understood by
reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative
embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings
wherein:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a typical condenser unit as may be
used in conjunction with a conventional split system air
conditioner as is known in the prior art;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a chimney for directing hot air from
the exhaust of a condenser unit and away from the unit in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a sun screened enclosure for
protecting a condenser unit from solar radiation, and the like, in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a cut-away section of a sun screened
enclosure with a mister zone for distributing a fine mist of water
into the volume between the sun screened enclosure and the
condenser in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a diagram of the present efficiency enhancement
system invention as a mister control system for controlling a
plurality of misting zones in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a mister control system for
controlling a plurality of misting zones in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and
[0015] FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting a method employed by the
control circuitry for regulating the flow of water to the
individual misting zones and nozzles in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Other features of the present invention will be apparent
from the accompanying drawings and from the following detailed
description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
TABLE-US-00001 [0017] Element Reference Number Designations 100:
Condenser unit 102: Air intake 104: Air exhaust 110: Condenser
housing 112: Condenser coils 200: Chimney 300: Sun screened
enclosure 302: Vents 304: Sun screen material 306: Frame structure
400: Mister zone 402: Mister nozzle 404: Fluid line 406: Mister
control system 602: Manifold 602A: Port A to mister zone A 602B:
Port B to mister zone B 602n: Port n to mister zone n 602O:
Optional Port O to mister O 610: Control circuitry 612: Temperature
sensor 614: Flap position sensor 622: Main solenoid valve 624A:
Solenoid valve A to mister zone A 624B: Solenoid valve B to mister
zone B 624n: Solenoid valve n to mister zone n
[0018] In the following description, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is
shown by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the
invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice
the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments
may be utilized. It is also to be understood that structural,
procedural and system changes may be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following
description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. For
clarity of exposition, like features shown in the accompanying
drawings are indicated with like reference numerals and similar
features as shown in alternate embodiments in the drawings are
indicated with similar reference numerals.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a typical condenser unit as may be
used in conjunction with a conventional split system air
conditioner as is known in the prior art. As discussed above, in a
typical split system air conditioner the low pressure evaporator
unit and the thermostatic expansion valve (commonly referred to as
the low side components) are located in the interior space of a
building (although not always in a cooled area), while the high
pressure condenser unit and the compressor unit (commonly referred
to as the high side components) are remotely located from the
evaporator on the exterior of the building. Hereinafter, the term
building is used for any structure, i.e., residential, commercial,
permanent or temporary. It should be mentioned that some types of
air conditioning systems integrate the high side and low side
components in the same housing, located on the building's exterior,
with only air ducts connected between the building and air
conditioning system. The present invention is equally effective in
increasing the efficiency of either type of air conditioner. As
depicted in FIG. 1, an air conditioner is illustrated with at least
condenser unit 100 comprises housing 110 for protecting and
partially enclosing condenser (refrigerant) coils 112 or the like,
for circulating between air intake 102 and exhaust 104. As used
hereinafter, it will be appreciated that condenser unit 100 may
comprise other air conditioning system components than just the
high side air conditioning system components. Typically, condenser
coils 112 are exposed directly to air intake 102, but other designs
are known. In addition to enclosing the compressor unit, an air
moving mechanism, such as a circulation fan (not shown), may also
be contained within condenser housing 110 for drawing air in
through air intake 102 and exhausting heated air through exhaust
104.
[0020] The inventor has recognized that prior art condensing units
such as the one depicted in FIG. 1 suffer from a myriad of
shortcomings due to design, installation and environmental factors.
One problem that tends to drastically reduce the operating
efficiency of prior art condenser units is its tendency to raise
the temperature of the ambient air in the proximity of the
condenser. As the condenser unit draws in warmer air, the
temperature of the evaporator coils increases and/or the capacity
for lowering the temperature of the indoor air by the air
conditioner is reduced. This tendency results from condenser unit
100 recirculating air that has been exhausted from exhaust 104 back
through air intake 102. Prior art condenser units are typically
designed with exhaust 104 located at the top of housing 110, which
directs the heated air away from the condenser via the internal
condenser fan. Additionally, because the air exiting the condenser
at exhaust 104 has been heated by the hot refrigerant in the
condenser coils, that air is lighter than the ambient outside air
and will rise. The thermal affect of the heated air works in
concert with the condenser fan to move the heated air above and
away from the condenser. However, in practice, all the air exiting
exhaust 104 does not move upward as a homogeneous column of air,
but instead exits exhaust 104 in the general shape of a plume
resulting from the forced air pressure created by the fan. The
plume moves in any direction that is open, i.e., upward and to the
sides. At a minimum, as the plume expands it tends to heat the
ambient air. Also, as the plume expands across housing 110, it
tends to heat the condenser, thus making it less efficient.
Furthermore, air intake 102 creates low pressure zones at the sides
of the condenser as it draws in air. As may be appreciated, the
combined affect of the high pressure plume of hot exhaust air and
the low pressure areas adjacent to the condenser results in a
heated air being drawn into intake 102 and recirculated, thereby
lowering the efficiency of the condenser. Therefore, in accordance
with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
problems associated with the condenser exhaust and of recirculating
hot air are overcome through the use of a chimney structure over
the condenser exhaust.
[0021] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a chimney for directing hot air from
the exhaust of a condenser unit and away from the unit in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
As depicted in the figure, chimney 200 has general cross sectional
shape of exhaust 104, wherein chimney 200 is secured on top of air
condenser 100 and around over exhaust 104. The purpose of chimney
200 is to vent the warm air away from exhaust 104, and air intake
102. Hence, the diameter of chimney 200 should be larger than the
opening for exhaust 104. Although both chimney 200 and exhaust 104
are depicted as having circular cross-sectional shapes, each may be
any shape and the shapes need not be alike. Chimney 200 may be
fabricated from any material capable of withstanding the
out-of-doors environment adjacent to the condenser, i.e., moisture,
wind and the rays from the sun, and should have the capacity to
withstand the vented warm air from exhaust 104. For example,
chimney 200 may comprise sheet metal, metal, plastic, wood or other
suitable material, and preferably maintenance free. An air flow
sensing device, such as a movable flap, may be disposed within
chimney 200 in accordance with some embodiments discussed below. In
accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, chimney 200 accelerates or increases the velocity of air
from exhaust 104 and may use, for example, vanes, aerodynamic
shaping or other means to increase the vortex rotation of air
passing through chimney 200.
[0022] In addition to the shortcomings discussed above, the
inventor has also recognized that prior art condensing units, such
as the one depicted in FIG. 1, suffer from excessive solar heating
from directed and reflected rays of the sun, e.g., infrared (IR)
and ultraviolet (UV) rays. Typically, air conditioner manufacturers
treat exposed surfaces with non-absorbent coatings to reduce the
amount of solar radiation that is absorbed by the condenser,
thereby keeping its temperature to a minimum. These coatings are
not completely effective. Furthermore, because air conditioner
condenser units are exposed to sun, rain and irrigation water and
other environmental contaminants, these coatings often fade, peel
or oxidize, and lose their efficiency. Therefore, in accordance
with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
condenser unit is protected from exposure to solar radiation,
either direct or indirect, through the use of a sun screened
enclosure around the condenser unit.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a sun screened enclosure for
protecting a condenser unit from solar radiation, and the like, in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. As depicted in the figure, sun screened enclosure 300
generally comprises frame structure 306 for rigidity and for
supporting sun screen material 304. Vents 302 are disposed about
sun screened enclosure 300 within sun screen material 304.
Optionally, and as depicted in the figure, vents 302 are disposed
along a lower extremity of sun screened enclosure 300 for receiving
air for the condenser, and away from the exhaust from the condenser
unit. Vents 302 may be positioned somewhat higher on sun screened
enclosure 300 without sacrificing its effectiveness.
[0024] In accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, the chimney of the present invention can be used
in combination with the sun screened enclosure. As such, the
purpose of chimney 200 is to prevent the warm air from exhaust 104
from being trapped in sun screened enclosure 300 and being
recirculated into intake 102.
[0025] In accordance with this embodiment, the diameter of chimney
200 is small enough to fit on condenser housing 110, but large
enough to completely cover exhaust 104. Chimney 200 should be
durable and at least semi-rigid, but light enough to be supported
on condenser unit 100. Additionally, chimney 200 should extend
above sun screened enclosure 300 (see FIG. 5) in order to reduce or
eliminate recirculation of the heated exhaust air to intake 102. In
accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention,
once positioned on condenser unit 100, chimney 200 extends
approximately 4 inches above the top of sun screened enclosure 300.
In accordance with still other exemplary embodiments of the present
invention, chimney 200 extends between 6 inches and 12 inches above
sun screened enclosure 300. Moreover, chimney 200 may be several
feet taller than sun screened enclosure 300, however as a practical
matter, resistance to the flow of air from exhaust 104 increases
with the length of the chimney. Moreover, because the upper portion
of chimney 200 is directly exposed to the wind, an excessively long
chimney might become unstable in high winds.
[0026] It should be mentioned that the use of a chimney as
described herein, may also improve the performance of a heat pump
type system in cold weather because a heat pump scavenges heat from
the ambient air and exhausts the chilled air from the system. In
that case, chimney 200 would direct the chilled air away from the
intake of the heat pump, thereby allowing the heat pump to more
efficiently scavenge heat from the ambient air.
[0027] As mentioned above, the purpose of sun screened enclosure
300 is to reduce the amount of solar heating condenser 100 is
subjected to, however in accordance with still another exemplary
embodiment of the present invention, sun screened enclosure 300
provides attachment points for water mister nozzles (see FIG. 4,
discussed below). In any case, sun screened enclosure 300 may be
understood as a self-supporting structure having a circular
profile. As suggested by FIG. 3, sun screened enclosure 300 may be
understood as a self-supporting structure having an exemplary
circular profile, but may be instead configured with any profile.
Additionally, sun screened enclosure 300 may be adapted to
cooperate with an adjacent permanent structure, such as a wall and
the like. Sun screen material 304 may be any suitable material or
combination of materials that allows sun screened enclosure 300 to
reduce the amount of solar radiation on condenser 100. In
accordance with one exemplary embodiment, sun screen material 304
has one or more of the following properties: blocks solar
radiation, is reflective, breathable, and/or collects water
droplets on its surface. Furthermore, sun screen material 304 may
have an aesthetically pleasing design and/or shape such that sun
screened enclosure 300 blends into the surrounding environment or
is aesthetically pleasing to view. In accordance with another
exemplary embodiment, sun screened enclosure 300 comprises frame
structure 306, of metal, plastic, woven plant material, wood or
other material able to provide a more rigid support member for the
material to block solar radiation. In accordance with still another
exemplary embodiment, sun screened enclosure 300 may further
comprise light weight wire frame (similar to a chicken wire),
wherein frame structure 306 is covered in solar screening
material.
[0028] The diameter of sun screened enclosure 300 is sufficient to
surround condenser unit 100 with a buffer of at least 6 inches from
intake 102 of condenser unit 100 and may have an optional top. Sun
screened enclosure 300 should be high enough to prevent the direct
rays from the sun from reaching condenser unit 100, for most of the
day (it is expected that sun screened enclosure 300 will not
protect condenser unit 100 during periods where the sun is directly
overhead). The amount of protection depends on the distance between
sun screened enclosure 300 and condenser 100. For example, if sun
screened enclosure 300 is relatively close to condenser 100, then
sun screened enclosure 300 may have a relatively low height.
Alternatively, if sun screened enclosure 300 is relatively far from
condenser 100, then sun screened enclosure 300 should be
correspondingly taller to sufficiently reduce the amount of solar
radiation on air condenser 100. For a typical condenser unit, the
height of sun screened enclosure 300 is between about 5 feet and 8
feet. Additionally, top of sun screened enclosure 300 may be
straight for maximum air flow or canted over at an angle to provide
additional shade.
[0029] As mentioned above, near the lowermost extent of sun
screened enclosure 300 are disposed a plurality of vents 302 such
that the ambient air outside of sun screened enclosure 300 can flow
unrestricted to air intake 102. The number and size of vents 302
should be sufficient for supplying air intake 102 with air. In
accordance with one exemplary embodiment, vents 302 are at least
about 4 inches high and extend from ground level, alternatively,
vents 302 may be between 4 inches and 18 inches in height and
extend from ground level.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a cut-away section of a sun screened
enclosure with a mister zone for distributing a fine mist of water
into the volume between the sun screened enclosure and the
condenser in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. In addition to blocking solar radiation, sun
screened enclosure 300 provides mechanical support for at least one
mister zone 400, comprising at least one mister nozzle 402 and
fluid lines 404. Fluid lines 404 supply fluid, such as water, to
mister nozzles 402. Mister nozzles 402 receive the fluid from fluid
lines 404 and mist, or produce small droplets of the fluid
suspended in air, in the general direction of intake 102. The mist
from mister nozzles 402 provides an evaporative pre-cooling effect
to the air contained in sun screened enclosure 300 as well as
providing direct evaporative cooling of condenser unit 100. Each
section of sun screened enclosure 300 may support one or more
misting zones 400, which may be individually activated.
[0031] The number of mister nozzles 402 and position of each nozzle
402 on sun screened enclosure 300 depends on the size of sun
screened enclosure 300 and the amount of mist desired. In
accordance with one exemplary embodiment, five mister nozzles are
disposed along the interior of the upper portion of sun screened
enclosure 300 to disperse as much water mist directly in the air
flow as possible and another five mister nozzles are placed near
the center of sun screened enclosure 300 and proximate to intake
102 to disperse mist onto or near condenser coils 112 of condenser
unit 100.
[0032] Mister nozzles 402 may be installed such that they activated
individually or activate in groups (see the discussion associated
with FIGS. 6 and 7 below). In accordance with one exemplary
embodiment of the present invention, a water filter is coupled to
fluid lines 404 to remove particulate matter that may clog nozzles.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, mister zones 400 further comprise a high pressure pump
(not shown) for increasing the amount of mist produced by mister
nozzles 402. Mister nozzles 402 are controlled by control system
406.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a diagram of the present efficiency enhancement
system invention as a mister control system for controlling a
plurality of misting zones in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. Here, exhaust 104 of condenser
unit 100 is enclosed by chimney 200 and the entire condenser unit
100 is surrounded by sun screened enclosure 300. Chimney 200
extends above sun screened enclosure 300 by a predetermined height.
Sun screened enclosure 300 protects condenser unit 100 from solar
radiation and thermal heating. During a run cycle, condenser unit
100 draws outside air into intake 102, from vents 302 within the
sun screen material 304 of sun screened enclosure 300, typically
disposed near the bottom of the enclosure. Air may also be drawn
from the open top of sun screened enclosure 300 or that opening may
be enclosed. Once the outside air has circulated across condenser
(refrigerant) coils 112 of condenser unit 100, it exits the
condenser unit at exhaust 104 and into chimney 200 and directed
away from sun screened enclosure 300 and condenser unit 100.
Optionally, sun screened enclosure 300 may have disposed thereon a
plurality of misting zones 400, each with fluid line 404 coupled to
at least one misting nozzle 402 for evaporative cooling of the
outside air and condenser coils 112 of condenser unit 100 (see the
discussion of the control system directly below).
[0034] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a mister control system for
controlling a plurality of misting zones in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Mister control 406
generally comprises water distribution manifold 602, which is
hydraulically coupled between a water supply (and filter) and each
of the plurality of misting zones, e.g., misting zones A, B, . . .
n, and optional misting zone O), control circuitry 610, temperature
sensor 612 and air conditioner cycle sensor, such as flap position
sensor 614. Coupled to each of misting zone ports 602 A, 602B, . .
. 602n and optional misting zone port 6020 is respective solenoid
valve 624A, 624B, . . . 624n for regulating the supply of water to
misting zone A through n, and also master solenoid valve 622, for
regulating the water supply from the main water supply line and
filter to manifold 602. The solenoid valves are normally-closed
valves that open upon receiving a control signal from control
circuitry 610. Control system 406 is provided with water and
electrical power, and determines when and which of mister nozzles
402 are to activate. Mister nozzles 402 are activated either when
condenser unit 100 is activated and/or when a specific ambient
temperature is reached. In accordance with one exemplary embodiment
of the present invention, control system 406 utilizes progressive
temperature regulation of mister nozzles 402 and a flap type air
switch for sensing the cycle of the air conditioning system (flap
position switch 614) to control the flow of liquid in fluid lines
404. Demand is determined by flap position switch 614 wherein flap
position switch 614 is either electrical, mechanical or
electromechanical. Flap position switch 614 is placed in the air
stream of the exhaust 104 of condenser unit 100 and when the
condensers fan in condenser unit 100 is activated, the velocity of
air at exhaust 104 activates the flap switch. Signals generated by
flap position switch 614 activate master solenoid valve 622 that is
coupled to the inlet port to manifold 602 of control system 406
thus allowing water to pass through fluid lines 404 to mister
nozzles 402. It should be appreciated that each of the misting
zones may have one misting nozzle 402 or a plurality of misting
nozzles 402 coupled thereon. Therefore, in accordance with another
exemplary embodiment of the present invention, one or more of
misting nozzles 402 may be combined with a separate electrical
solenoid valve and receives control signals from control circuitry
for activating the nozzle individually.
[0035] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, the availability of fluid to individual mister
nozzles 402 is controlled through the use of a thermostatic device
to control the activation of individual additional solenoid valves
at each mister 402 or at a group of mister nozzles 402. For
example, if ambient air temperature sensor 612 detects a
temperature greater than threshold temperature value, A.degree. F.
(for instance 85.degree. F.). In response, control circuitry 610
sends a control signal to solenoid valve 624A, which opens in
response, and water is passed to misting zone A. If ambient air
temperature sensor 612 detects a temperature greater than a second
and higher temperature threshold, B.degree. F. (where B>A, for
instance 90.degree. F.). Control circuitry 610 then sends a control
signal to solenoid valve 624B, which then opens in response. Water
is then passed to misting zone B. The sequence is identical for
other temperature thresholds until air temperature sensor 612
detects a temperature greater than the highest threshold, n.degree.
F. When a temperature of n.degree. F. is detected (where
n>B>A), all n solenoid valves and misting zones are
activated. This process embodied in control circuitry 610 is
discussed further below with regard to the flowchart in FIG. 7. In
another exemplary embodiment, each mister 402 or groups of mister
nozzles 402 are activated on a progressive basis. In accordance
with yet another exemplary embodiment, control system 406 is
optional and not present, wherein fluid lines 404 are connected
directly to a fluid source such as a water faucet and mister
nozzles 402 are activated when the fluid source is turned on.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting a method employed by the
control circuitry for regulating the flow of water to the
individual misting zones and nozzles in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The method is an
iterative process and therefore is continually iterating through
the steps. The threshold condition is the position of the flap
(step 702). If flap position sensor 614 detects that the flap is in
the OFF position, that is condenser unit 100 has cycled OFF,
control circuitry 610 deactivates any solenoids that may be open
(step 704). If flap position sensor 614 detects that the flap is in
the ON position, the main solenoid valve 622 is activated by
control circuitry 610 (step 706) and water is allowed to enter
manifold 602 and onto any misting zone through ports that are not
regulated by a separate solenoid valve, such as optional port 6020
coupled to misting zone O. Next, control circuitry 610 receives
ambient air temperature information from temperature sensor 612.
That temperature is tested against one or more temperature
thresholds for activating separate misting zones and/or misting
nozzles, beginning with temperature threshold A (step 708). If the
ambient temperature is not greater than A.degree. F., the process
deactivates any of solenoid valves A-n that may be active (step
710) and iterates back to step 702 for a flap check. However, the
present method continually monitors the ambient temperature and
activates and deactivates solenoids as necessary. If the ambient
temperature is above A.degree. F., solenoid valve A is activated
(step 712) and the next temperature threshold is tested,
temperature B.degree. F. (step 714). If the ambient temperature is
not above B.degree. F., the process deactivates any of solenoid
valves B-n that may be active (step 716) and iterates back to step
702 for a flap check and eventually may iterate back to step 714,
assuming that the ambient temperature is greater than A.degree. F.
If the ambient temperature is above B.degree. F., solenoid valve B
is activated (step 718) and the next subsequent temperature
threshold is tested until the final temperature threshold is
tested, temperature n.degree. F. (step 720). Here again, if the
ambient temperature is not greater than n.degree. F., the n
solenoid valve is deactivated (step 722) and the process iterates
back to step 702 and through the applicable process steps. If the
ambient temperature is above n.degree. F., then the n solenoid
valve is activated (step 724) and again the process iterates back
to step 702.
[0037] The above described system significantly improves an
existing air conditioner without voiding the warranty for the air
conditioner. It should be understood that the foregoing relates to
exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
[0038] The exemplary embodiments described below were selected and
described in order to best explain the principles of the invention
and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary
skill in the art to understand the invention for various
embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the
particular use contemplated. The particular embodiments described
below are in no way intended to limit the scope of the present
invention as it may be practiced in a variety of variations and
environments without departing from the scope and intent of the
invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be
limited to the embodiment shown, but is to be accorded the widest
scope consistent with the principles and features described
herein.
[0039] The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate
the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible
implementations of systems, methods and computer program products
according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this
regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent
a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more
executable instructions for implementing the specified logical
function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative
implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of
the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in
succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or
the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order,
depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted
that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart
illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams
and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special
purpose hardware-based systems which perform the specified
functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and
computer instructions.
[0040] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/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.
* * * * *