U.S. patent application number 12/540067 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-17 for window fan.
Invention is credited to James Wiese.
Application Number | 20110039490 12/540067 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43588863 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110039490 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wiese; James |
February 17, 2011 |
Window Fan
Abstract
In the specification and drawings a window fan is described and
shown. The window fan cools a room using outside air when the room
air meets certain criteria relative to a set point and the outside
air meets certain preselected criteria relative to the indoor air.
The window fan may also exhaust room air to the outside when the
room air meets certain criteria relative to a set point and the
outside air meets certain preselected criteria relative to the
indoor air
Inventors: |
Wiese; James; (Maple Grove,
MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MIDDLETON & REUTLINGER
2500 BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOWER, (401 S. 4th Street, Suite 2500)
LOUISVILLE
KY
40202
US
|
Family ID: |
43588863 |
Appl. No.: |
12/540067 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
454/200 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 7/013 20130101;
F24F 2110/22 20180101; F24F 11/30 20180101; F24F 11/0001 20130101;
F24F 2110/20 20180101; F24F 2110/10 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/200 |
International
Class: |
F24F 7/013 20060101
F24F007/013 |
Claims
1. An window fan for cooling a building interior, comprising: a
housing having an exterior side for positioning exteriorly of said
building and an interior side for positioning interiorly of said
building; said housing having an outside air intake though which
outside air is entrained on said exterior of said building, said
outside air intake positioned lower on a surface of said housing;
said housing having an outside air output in fluid communication
with said outside air intake, said outside air output positioned in
said building interior; said outside air intake and said outside
air exhaust in fluid communication with a first fan; said outside
air intake having an outside louver, said outside louver having a
preselected geometry which inhibits rain from entering said duct; a
first motor connected to said first fan causing rotation and
entraining of said outside air from said building exterior into
said air intake; an inside air exhaust on an exterior surface of
said housing positioned above said outside air intake, said inside
air exhaust forcing contaminants in said outside air away from said
outside air intake; a dam disposed interiorly of said air intake,
said dam inhibiting contaminants from passing through said duct in
said housing; a second exhaust fan which rotates to draw air from
said building interior and forces air outward near a base of said
housing; a second motor connected to said second exhaust fan
causing rotation and entraining of said inside air from within said
building to outside said building.
2. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 1, said
outside air output and said inside air intake on said housing for
positioning in said building interior.
3. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 2
further comprising actuatable louvers on said outside air output
and said inside air intake.
4. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 3,
further comprising a control panel for operating said window
fan.
5. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 4, said
control panel including an electronic controller which signals
opening and closing of said actuatable louvers.
6. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 1 having
a first airflow path and a second airflow path.
7. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 4, said
first airflow path separated from said second airflow path
separated by a partition.
8. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 7, one
of said first airflow path and said second airflow path drawing air
into said building interior.
9. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 8, the
other of said first airflow path and said second airflow path
drawing air from said building interior.
10. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 7, said
partition having a sloped surface for draining any water from the
housing.
11. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 1
further comprising a well positioned adjacent said dam for
collecting water and draining said water from said housing.
12. A window fan system, comprising: a housing having a frame and a
partition defining a first air flow path and a second airflow path
through said housing; one of said first and second flow path
drawing outside air into a building and the other of said first and
second flow path drawing inside air out of the said building
creating a circulation path; a first blower in fluid communication
with said first airflow path and a second blower in fluid
communication with said second airflow path, said first and second
blowers creating airflows; a dam disposed along one of said first
and second airflow path, said dam inhibiting water from passing
from through said housing with said outside air, said dam having a
sloped surface causing said water to gravity drain to a well; said
well having drain apertures releasing said water from said hosing
interior to said exterior; a rear louver disposed over the inside
air exhaust and outside air intake, said louver having a plurality
of fins of preselected geometry which inhibit passage of water
through said louver; said inside air exhaust blowing water and
contaminants away from said outside air intake.
13. A window fan for cooling a building interior by using exterior
air having preselected characteristics, comprising: a housing
having an air intake and an air exhaust output both in said housing
and on an exterior side of said building; an air output on an
interior side of said building, said air output in fluid
communication with said air intake through a duct in said housing;
said air exhaust in fluid communication with an exhaust intake on a
building interior side of said housing; a first fan disposed
vertically above a second fan within said housing; one of said
first fan and said second fan in flow communication with said air
intake and said air output, the other of said first fan and said
second fan in flow communication with said air exhaust and said
exhaust intake.
14. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 13,
said first fan and said second fan drawing warmer air from said
interior side of said building and cooler air from said exterior
side of said building.
15. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 14,
said first fan and said second fan removing warm air from in said
building and increasing circulation for improved cooling.
16. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 13,
further comprising a partition separating a first airflow path from
a second airflow path.
17. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 16
further comprising said first airflow path and said second airflow
path moving in opposite directions through said housing.
18. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 13
further comprising a movable louver system for positioning on a
building interior side of said housing.
19. The window fan for cooling a building interior of claim 18
further comprising at least one actuating motor connected to a
linkage for opening and closing louvers.
20. A window fan system, comprising: a housing having a control
panel; a first airflow path having a first blower drawing outside
air into said system and exhausting said outside air into said
system and exhausting said outside air inside a building; a second
airflow path having a second blower drawing inside air into said
system and exhausting said inside air outside said building; and, a
room air intake in flow communication with said second airflow path
and an outside air exhaust in flow communication with said first
airflow path, said room air intake disposed above said outside air
exhaust.
21. The window fan system of claim 20 further comprising a dam
positioned generally along said second airflow path and inhibiting
water from reaching said second blower.
22. The window fan system of claim 21 further comprising a well
disposed at a lower edge of said dam.
23. The window fan system of claim 20 further comprising a louver
system which closes said first and second airflow paths.
24. The window fan system of claim 23 further comprising a motor
which actuates a linkage.
25. The window fan system of claim 24, said linkage actuating a
plurality of louvers in said first airflow path.
26. The window fan system of claim 25, said linkage actuating a
plurality of louvers in said second airflow path.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] None.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] None.
REFERENCE TO SEQUENTIAL LISTING, ETC.
[0003] None.
BACKGROUND
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] This invention relates to a seasonally installed window fan.
More specifically, the invention relates to a seasonally installed
window fan which cools a room using outside air when the room air
meets certain criteria relative to a set point and the outside air
meets certain preselected criteria relative to the indoor air.
[0006] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0007] Prior art window fans are utilized to move stagnant air,
cool internal building areas or rooms when air conditioning is not
available. There are various known problems however, with prior art
fan structures. First, as depicted in FIG. 15, prior art fans in
many cases only pull air into a room and fail to exhaust air which
causes poor circulation within the room and therefore hinders
cooling. Alternatively, other fan systems pull air into a room and
exhaust air in the same vertical plane or elevation. Therefore
these fan systems fail to eliminate temperature stratification and
reduce cooling effectiveness.
[0008] Another problem related to prior art fans is that fan units
do no inhibit water passing through a housing and into a room when
the fan is operated while a rain event is occurring. Consequently,
during rain events, many window fans may not be operated without
drawing water into the building.
[0009] Another problem with prior art window units is the limited
control of fan operation. Most prior art units are manually
operated, meaning a user must turn the fan on and off as desired.
It would be desirable to use a window fan when specific outside air
criteria are met, so that the air conditioning system in the
building or home is not needed when the outside air is cool and of
a saturation or humidity level which would be comfortable to an
occupant of the building or room.
[0010] Additionally, the use of the dew point and humidity controls
would allow for increased comfort and energy savings by limiting
the use of air conditioning in the building or home. Such limited
use of natural resources is desirable.
[0011] It would be desirable to create a window fan unit which
overcomes these and other deficiencies in order to decrease energy
consumption, more efficiently cool interior areas of a building,
commercial, residential or other, and improve occupant comfort
while ultimately saving money on cooling by using outside air where
applicable.
SUMMARY
[0012] In some embodiments a window fan cools a building interior
and comprises a housing having an exterior side for positioning
exteriorly of the building and an interior side for positioning
interiorly of the building. The housing has an outside air intake
though which outside air is entrained on the exterior of the
building; the outside air intake being positioned lower on a
surface of the housing. The housing has an outside air output in
fluid communication with the outside air intake; the outside air
output positioned in the building interior. The outside air intake
and the outside air exhaust are in fluid communication with a first
fan. The outside air intake has an outside louver and the outside
louver has a preselected geometry which inhibits rain from entering
the duct. A first motor is connected to the first fan causing
rotation and entraining of the outside air from the building
exterior into the air intake. An inside air exhaust is on an
exterior surface of the housing positioned above the outside air
intake, the inside air exhaust forcing contaminants in the outside
air away from the outside air intake. A dam is disposed interiorly
of the air intake and inhibits contaminants from passing through
the duct in the housing. A second exhaust fan rotates to draw air
from the building interior and forces air outward near a base of
the housing. A second motor is connected to the second exhaust fan
causing rotation and entraining of the inside air from within the
building to outside the building. The outside air output and the
inside air intake may be on the housing for positioning in the
building interior. The window fan may further comprise actuable
louvers on the outside air output and the inside air intake. The
window fan may further comprise a control panel for operating the
window fan. The control panel may include an electronic controller
which signals opening and closing of the actuable louvers. The
window fan may have a first airflow path and a second airflow path.
The first airflow path may be separated from the second airflow
path by a partition. One of the first airflow path and the second
airflow path may draw air into the building interior. The partition
may have a sloped surface for draining any water from the housing.
The window fan may further comprise a well positioned adjacent the
dam for collecting water and draining the water from the
housing.
[0013] In some embodiments a window fan system comprises a housing
having a frame and a partition defining a first air flow path and a
second airflow path through the housing. One of the first and
second flow path draws outside air into a building and the other of
the first and second flow path draws inside air out of the building
creating a circulation path. A first blower is in fluid
communication with the first airflow path and a second blower is in
fluid communication with the second airflow path, the first and
second blowers creating airflows. A dam is disposed along one of
the first and second airflow path. The dam inhibits water from
passing from through the housing with the outside air and has a
sloped surface causing the water to gravity drain to a well. The
well has drain apertures releasing the water from the hosing
interior to the exterior. A rear louver disposed over the inside
air exhaust and outside air intake has a plurality of fins of
preselected geometry which inhibit passage of water through the
louver. The inside air exhaust blows water and contaminants away
from the outside air intake.
[0014] In some embodiments a window fan comprises a housing having
an air intake and an air exhaust output both in the housing and on
an exterior side of a building. The window fan also comprises an
air output on an interior side of the building, the air output
being in fluid communication with the air intake through a duct in
the housing. The air exhaust is in fluid communication with an
exhaust intake on a building interior side of the housing. A first
fan is disposed vertically above a second fan within the housing.
One of the first fan and the second fan is in flow communication
with the air intake and the air output, the other of the first fan
and the second fan is in flow communication with the air exhaust
and the exhaust intake. The first fan and the second fan may draw
warmer air from the interior side of the building and cooler air
from the exterior side of the building. The first fan and the
second fan may remove warm air from in the building and increase
circulation for improved cooling. The window fan may further
comprise a partition separating a first airflow path from a second
airflow path. The window fan may further comprise a first partition
separating a first airflow path from a second airflow path. The
window fan may further comprise the first airflow path and the
second airflow path moving in opposite directions through the
housing. The window fan may further comprise a movable louver
system for positioning on a building interior side of the housing.
The window fan may further comprise at least one actuating motor
connected to a linkage for opening and closing louvers.
[0015] In some embodiments a window fan system comprises a housing
having a control panel. The window fan system also comprises a
first airflow path having a first blower drawing outside air into
the system and exhausting the outside air into the system and
exhausting the outside air inside a building. The window fan system
also comprises a second airflow path having a second blower drawing
inside air into the system and exhausting the inside air outside
the building. The window fan system also comprises a room air
intake in flow communication with the second airflow path and an
outside air exhaust in flow communication with the first airflow
path, the room air intake disposed above the outside air exhaust.
The window fan system may further comprise a dam positioned
generally along the second airflow path and inhibiting water from
reaching the second blower. The window fan system may further
comprise a well disposed at a lower edge of the dam. The window fan
system may further comprise a louver system which closes the first
and second airflow paths. The window fan system may further
comprise a motor which actuates a linkage. The linkage may actuate
a plurality of louvers in the first airflow path. The linkage may
also actuate a plurality of louvers in the second airflow path.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of
this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more
apparent and the invention will be better understood by reference
to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken
in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a window fan system
positioned in a window sill for use;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side schematic view of a room circulation
pattern showing both intake into and exhaust from the room;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the window fan system
with the housing structure removed;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the housing of the window
fan system with much of the internal structure removed;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the
window fan system;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a side section view of the window fan system;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a partially sectioned lower perspective view of
the window fan system;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the window fan unit
with the housing structure removed;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective of the room air exhaust and
room air intake including linkage removed from the window fan
system;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a second rear perspective view of the structure
shown in FIG. 9;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the linkage and louvers for
the room air intake with the louvers in a first position;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the linkage and louvers for
the room air intake in a second position;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the linkage and louvers for
the outside air exhaust with the louvers in a first position;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the linkage and louvers for
the outside air exhaust with the louvers in a second position;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a side schematic of a prior art window fan having
limited air movement;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a top view of an embodiment of a control panel
for use with the window fan system;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a
control system for a window fan system;
[0034] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the
generalized logic of a control when a fan button of the window fan
system is actuated by a user;
[0035] FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the
generalized logic of a control when a set point adjustment button
of the window fan system is actuated by a user; and
[0036] FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the
generalized logic of a control when automatically operating the
window fan system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0037] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and
of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also,
it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used
herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded
as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and
variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed
thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
Unless limited otherwise, the terms "connected," "coupled," and
"mounted," and variations thereof herein are used broadly and
encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and
mountings. In addition, the terms "connected" and "coupled" and
variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical
connections or couplings.
[0038] Furthermore, and as described in subsequent paragraphs, the
specific mechanical configurations illustrated in the drawings are
intended to exemplify embodiments of the invention and that other
alternative mechanical configurations are possible.
[0039] Referring now to the drawings wherein like numerals indicate
like elements throughout the several views that are shown in FIGS.
1-20 various aspects of a window fan system. The window fan system
inhibits rain passage through the housing and dispels the rain
without the water content entering the interior area of the
building. The window fan unit also comprises a damper or louver
system to open and close vents to limit heat transfer through the
system when the fans are turned off. Additionally, the fan unit has
a ducting arrangement which pulls air into a room and exhausts air
from the room to improve circulation and utilizes a fan arrangement
to aid with the circulation. The fan system also utilizes a control
system to utilize outside air having desirable characteristics
which cools the room and may be also used with existing air
conditioning, therefore decreasing the reliance on an air
conditioning system, and saving energy and costs associated with
air conditioning operation.
[0040] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a window fan
system 10 is depicted on a window sill and with a window sash (both
shown in broken line) engaging an upper surface of the window fan
system 10. Positioned about the lower portion of the fan system 10
is a lower housing 12 which wraps around the front and sides of the
fan system 10 and may be formed of metal, plastic or other
resilient material and which has aesthetically pleasing qualities.
A power cord 14 is shown extending from a side of the lower housing
12 and may extend to a power supply such as an in-wall power outlet
(not shown). Adjacent to power cord 14 is a sill bracket 16 which
allows for adjustable connection to the window sill wherein the
window fan system 10 is positioned. Although a sash type window is
depicted, it should be understood that use of the window fan system
10 may be used with slider type window which slides in a horizontal
direction rather than a vertical direction.
[0041] Within the lower housing 12 is an outside air exhaust 18.
When outside air is entrained into the fan system 10 and passes
through at least one fan within the window fan system 10, the
outside air is exhausted into the building or room through the
outside air exhaust 18. The outside air exhaust 18 is positioned on
the lower area of the housing so that an upper intake 30 can remove
hotter air from the room. The outside air exhaust 18 may be opened
or closed to allow or inhibit airflow into the room or area being
cooled.
[0042] Above the lower housing 12 is an upper housing 20 which may
also be formed of metal, plastic or other resilient material like
the lower housing 12 and may be matching. The upper and lower
housings 20, 12 of the exemplary embodiment are depicted as
separate housing pieces, however, such housing elements 12, 20 may
be combined into a single one-piece housing. Additionally, the
upper housing 20 comprises a control panel 22 having a display 24
and at least one control button 26. Adjacent to the control panel
22 is a room exhaust intake 30. The window fan system 10 also
exhausts air from inside the building to outside in order to
improve circulation within the room or building. Thus, cooler air
comes into the building through the outside air exhaust 18 and
hotter air is withdrawn from the room through the upper room
exhaust intake 30. With the room exhaust intake 30 on the upper
surface of the window fan system 10, the room exhaust intake 30 can
better draw warm air from the room and move it outside. Conversely,
the outside air exhaust 18 is at a lower position, as this air is
cooler than the warmer air being exhausted by the room exhaust
intake 30. This configuration aids circulation since warm air rises
and cooler air descends.
[0043] The surrounding window structure is shown in broken line to
provide environmental understanding of how the window fan system 10
is placed in the window and when the sash is closed against the
upper surface of the upper housing 20. Positioned on the upper
housing 20 is an adjustable sash bracket 28. This bracket provides
an adjustable width to fit various sizes of window sash. The
bracket 28 also provides adjustability to compensate for the
position the window fan 10 is inwardly or outwardly relative to the
window sill beneath the system 10. For example, some windows will
require further positioning of the system 10 toward the interior of
the building than other windows. The sash bracket 28 also aids to
compensate for such adjustments.
[0044] Referring now to FIG. 2, a side schematic view of a room is
depicted. A window fan system 10 is depicted in a sidewall of the
room. A lower fan draws air into the room which circulates across
the room, up an opposite wall, along the ceiling and down the wall
in which the window fan unit 10 is positioned. Additionally, it
will be understood that the air moving into the room may move along
the walls toward the window fan system 10. As the air moves along
the walls toward the system 10, any rising temperature of the air
will cause the air to rise nearer the fan system 10. A second upper
fan draws air from within the room and out to atmosphere. As
previously indicated, the upper fan is utilized to draw air from
the room since warmer air will be higher in the room. In comparison
with FIG. 15, one of skill in the art will recognize that where the
prior art device fails by not removing air from the interior, the
instant embodiment removes warmer air increasing circulation, which
ultimately aids in cooling the room. The vertical circulation
pattern created by the fan system 10 eliminates temperature
stratification of prior art devices with air intake and air exhaust
both in the same vertical elevation
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 3, a rear perspective view of the
window fan system 10 is depicted. The rear side of the window fan
system 10 is positioned on the outside of the building being cooled
both drawing air into the room and exhausting air out of the room.
With the upper housing 20, the lower housing 12 and the rear louver
32 all removed, a frame 40 is revealed. The frame 40 comprises a
first side member 41 and a second opposed side member 43. Both the
first side member 41 and the second side member 43 are vertical
members and substantially parallel to one another in the exemplary
embodiment although such design should not be considered limiting.
Along the upper side of the frame 40 and connecting the first side
member and second side member 41,43 is an upper frame member 42.
The upper frame member 42 is substantially horizontal and opposite
to an opening 44 which is defined by a first strut 45 and an
opposed second strut 46. Around the mid-portion of the frame 40, in
a vertical direction is a partition 38 which separates the upper
exhaust portion 50 from the lower intake portion 52 of the window
fan system 10. On the upper side of the fan partition 38, is an
upper fan housing 54. Beneath the partition 38 in the lower intake
portion 52 is a lower fan housing 56. Each of the housings 54, 56
may be formed of one or more housing portions which are connected
in various manners or alternatively may be formed integrally.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of a window fan
system 10 is depicted with the internal components of the system 10
removed. Through the openings of the upper housing 20, the rear
louver 32 may be seen which is positioned on the outwardly facing
side of the window fan system 10. The rear louver 32 covers the
upper exhaust portion 50 and the lower intake portion 52 (FIG. 3).
These portions 50,52 are separated by the partition 38 (FIG. 2) so
as to create two separate air pathways. The lower intake portion 52
pulls outside air into the system 10 directs the air into the
building or home through the outside air exhaust 18. The upper
exhaust portion 50 pulls air from the room or building interior
through the room exhaust intake 30 and directs this warmer air out
of the upper half of the rear louver 32.
[0047] Within the lower area of the system 10, a dam 60 may be seen
adjacent the rear louver 32. The dam 60 is located generally
between the first and second struts 45, 46 (FIG. 2). The dam 60 may
be separately formed and positioned between the struts 45,46 or,
alternatively the dam 60 may be integrally formed with lower
housing portion 12, frame 40, or other portions of the fan system
10. In either formation, the dam 60 inhibits water passage through
the fan system 10. Water passing through the lower portion of rear
louver 32 encounters the dam 60 as it moves into or toward the
lower intake portion 52. The dam inhibits the water droplet from
passing though the housing and into the room. The dam 60 performs
this function by creating a reservoir for water droplets which fall
out of the airstream being pulled into the housing. In other words,
the dam 60 effectuates removal from the entrained water droplets
from the airflow. Afterward, the fallen water droplets are gravity
fed to a well 62 (FIG. 6) where the water may drain through the
housing and out of the system 10 and may be aided by the lower fan
at the bottom of the fan blade.
[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a partially sectioned rear
perspective view and side sectioned view of the window fan unit 10
are depicted. The rear louver 32 comprises a plurality of vertical
fins 32a and a plurality of horizontally extending fins 32b. The
horizontally extending fins 32b are tilted at an angle which slopes
downward from the inside of the system 10 to the outside. The fins
32a, 32b are fixed and are sloped in order to deflect rain which
might otherwise be pulled into the lower half of the louver 32 and
into the lower intake portion 52. According to the exemplary
embodiment, the slope of the horizontal fins is 5%, although such
slope should not be considered limiting as other slopes may be
utilized. Additionally, an aspect ratio of the rear louver 32 is
defined as being about two-to-one (2:1). The term aspect ratio
means that, as measured between vertical fins 32a, the width of the
horizontal fin 32b is twice the vertical distance between louvers.
Again this aspect ratio is merely exemplary, as other ratios may be
utilized. The illustrative aspect ratio is utilized also for its
ability to deflect rain which may be entrained near the lower
intake portion 52 of the louver 32.
[0049] From this view, one skilled in the art will realize that the
upper exhaust portion 50 (FIG. 2) which blows air outwardly through
the upper portion of the louver 32 also aids to clear the airspace
immediately above the lower intake portion 52 (FIG. 2) of louver 32
of rain and other contaminants which may be otherwise pulled into
the lower intake portion 52 by the lower fan. For purpose of this
description, the term contaminants should be understood to mean
rain, snow or other weather elements in addition to other elements
which may be found in the outside air. Thus, the present embodiment
utilizes a louver 32 having fin characteristics which aid to
inhibit rain from entering the window fan system 10. The
arrangement of an upper fan system 80 blowing outwardly and a lower
fan 74 pulling air inwardly aids to blow rain away from the lower
portion of louver 32 inhibiting rainwater from entering the window
fan system 10 during use. Additionally, any rainwater which passes
through the rear louver 32 may be impinged on the dam 60 adjacent
the lower intake fan 74 or alternatively slowed by the dam 60
causing the water to fall or drain into the well 62.
[0050] As shown near the bottom of the window fan system 10, and
between the first and second struts 45,46, the dam 60 has an upper
surface 61 which generally slopes from an upper point closer to fan
74 to a lower point near the louver 32. The dam 60 receives some
water which passes through the louver 32. Typically, the flow path
of the water may be interrupted by the louvers 32 and this
disruption in velocity causes the water droplets to fall onto the
upper surface onto the dam 60. The slope of dam 60, in combination
with gravity, causes water to drain down this dam slope into a well
62 (FIG. 6).
[0051] Moving away from the louver 32, beyond the dam 60, an intake
fan assembly 70 is depicted. The fan assembly 70 includes a motor
72 which may be a 120 Volt motor having a high speed of
approximately 1425 RPM, a medium speed of approximately 1322 RPM,
and a low speed of approximately 1184 RPM. Connected to the fan
motor 72 is a blower or fan 74. The blower or fan 74 may be a
centripetal fan which draws air into the top portion beneath the
partition 38. Alternatively, various types of fans may be used, for
example centrifugal, tangential or cross-flow fans. The blower 74
is generally cylindrical in shape having a plurality of horizontal
fins which may be slightly curved and connected by a plurality of
axially aligned ribs. The blower 74 is operably connected to the
fan motor 72 and spins about a central axis with the motor 72. In
the views shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the motor 72 rotates in a
substantially counterclockwise direction which pulls air inwardly
through the lower portion of louver 32 and moves the air upwardly
through the blower housing 56 and expels the accelerated air
through the room air exhaust 18. The blower housing 56 is connected
to the partition 38 which separates the lower intake portion 52
(FIG. 2) from the upper exhaust portion 50 (FIG. 2).
[0052] Still referring to FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the partition 38
includes a sloped portion closest to the rear louver 32. The sloped
portion of the partition 38 also utilizes gravity to remove any
water which may gather in this area of the fan and drains this
water to the dam 60 or the well 62. At the downhill side of the dam
60 is a well 62. The function of the well 62 is to receive water
which runs off the slope surface of the dam 60 and remove the water
from the fan system 10. A plurality of apertures 64 are seen at a
lower surface of the window fan unit 10. These apertures 64
function as drain holes and are located generally in the bottom of
the well 62. A plurality of ribs 66 are positioned on the lower
surface of the dam 60 which eliminates the need to make a solid dam
60 and saves weight while strengthening the part. As previously
described the dam 60 may be separately formed or integrally formed
with the housing 12, frame 40, or other parts.
[0053] Above the partition 38, an upper exhaust fan assembly 80 is
positioned. Similar to the lower fan assembly 70, the upper exhaust
fan assembly 80 comprises a fan motor 82 and a centripetal fan or
blower 84. The upper fan assembly 80 removes air from the building
interior through the room exhaust intake 30, through the blower 74
and out to atmosphere through the upper portion of the rear louver
32.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 8, the window fan unit 10 is depicted
with the lower housing 12 and upper housing 20 removed. Extending
from the frame 40 is a room exhaust intake 30 having a plurality of
louvers 34 which are pivotally positioned within a louver frame 36.
The louver frame 36 functions as a duct through which air passes
from the room, through the room exhaust intake 30, louvers 34 and
into the upper fan assembly 80. Beneath the louver frame 36 is the
upper fan cowling 56 which is curved to proximate the curvature of
the blower 84 and includes a plurality of stiffening ribs along the
outer surface thereof.
[0055] Beneath the room exhaust intake 30, is the outside air
exhaust 18, which also comprises a louver housing 90 and a
plurality of pivotable louvers 92. The louver housing 90 also
functions as a duct adjacent to the lower fan assembly 70 and
allows air passage through the outside air exhaust 18 into the room
or building where the window fan unit 10 is positioned.
[0056] Referring now to FIG. 9, a perspective view of the room
exhaust intake 30 and the outside air exhaust 18 is shown in a rear
perspective view through which air passes from a building interior
to the outside of the building. The upper louver frame 36 includes
a plurality of louvers 34 positioned therein. The louvers 34 may be
pivoted open to allow air flow when the system 10 is in operation.
Alternatively, when the window system 10 is not operating, the
louvers 34 may be closed to inhibit flow of air from the interior
of the room to the outside or vice versa depending on the
temperature difference between the outside ambient air and the
inside air temperature. The louver frame 36 includes a plurality of
moldings and fastening apertures for connection to the frame 40
(FIG. 7) or other components of the system 10.
[0057] Beneath the room exhaust intake 30 is the outside air
exhaust 18. The louver housing 90 defines a duct area through which
air passes from the fan system 80 to the room interior. Within the
lower housing 90 are a plurality of pivotally connected louvers 92
which also open and close depending on the state of the window fan
system 10. The lower housing 90 also includes a plurality of
moldings and apertures for connecting the lower housing 90 to the
frame 40 or adjacent structure. As best seen in FIG. 8, positioned
about the front area of the housings 36, 90 and louvers 34, 92 are
trim elements which define portions of the outer housings 12,
20.
[0058] The louvers 34,92 may, according to one embodiment, move
independently of one another. Alternatively, in the exemplary
embodiment depicted, and described hereinafter, a linkage system
100 is utilized to open and close the louvers 34,92 simultaneously.
The linkage system 100 comprises an actuated motor 102. An actuator
arm 104 is operably connected to the motor with a pivot point 106
and first and second linkage connections 108,109.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 10, a perspective view of the linkage
system 100 is depicted. Connected to the arm 104 at pivot point 109
(FIG. 9) is a lower linkage 110. The lower linkage 110 connects to
a lower louver pivot mechanism 112. This mechanism 112 includes at
least one arm 114, connected to lower linkage 110. The upper
linkage 120 extends to an upper pivot mechanism 122 having an arm
124. Both arms 114,124 pivot to move the corresponding louvers
92,34.
[0060] Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, perspective views of the
pivot mechanism 122 are depicted with the louvers 34 in first and
second positions. Arm 124 is generally v-shaped and pivotally
connected to the louver frame 36. A slide member 126 is connected
to the arm 124 and slides along a surface of the louver frame 136
as the arm 124 rotates with movement of linkage arm 120. Each of
the louvers 34 are operably connected to the slide 126 so that
movement of the arm 124 causes movement of the slide 126, and
therefore movement of the louvers 34. In sum, according to the
exemplary embodiment, the actuator motor 102 pivots each of the
louvers 34 with a single motion via the arm 124 and slide member
126. As shown in FIG. 11, the louvers 34 are in an open position.
As the arm 124 is rotated and the slide member 126 moves, the
louvers 34 rotate to a closed position.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, perspective views of the
lower pivot mechanism 112 are depicted with the louvers in first
and second positions. Depending from the actuator motor 102 is the
lower linkage 110 which engages an arm 134. Extending from the
lower housing 90 is a pivot structure about which the arm 134
rotates. Also connected to the arm 134 is a lower slide member 136.
The plurality of louvers 92 are each pivotally connected to the
slide member 136 so that rotation of the arm 134 causes pivotal
movement, opening or closing, of the louvers 92.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 16, a top view of a second embodiment
of a control panel 122 is depicted. Both control panels 22, 122 may
be in electronic communication with the fan systems 70, 80 as well
as linkage system 100 for controlling the window fan system 10.
Control panel 122 may be located, for example, in a similar
location as control panel 22 on window fan system 10. Control panel
122 includes a display 124 that provides an area for displaying a
current dry bulb temperature of the room or interior air and an
area for displaying the current set point temperature that has been
selected by a user. A power push button 126a is provided to enable
a user to selectively power window fan system 10 and a fan push
button 126b is provided to enable a user to cause lower fan 74 and
upper fan 84 to be set to a low, medium, high, or automatic
setting. AUTO LED 125a, HIGH LED 125b, MED LED 125c, and LOW LED
125d are selectively illuminated to convey to a user which setting
is selected for lower fan 74 and upper fan 84. Similarly, ON LED
125e is illuminated when the window fan system 10 is powered on to
convey to a user that it is powered. A set point "+" button 126c
and a set point "-" button 126d are provided to enable a user to
increment the set point upwardly or downwardly, respectively. The
area of display 124 for displaying the current set point
temperature conveys to a user the currently selected set point.
[0063] Referring now to FIG. 17, a schematic representation of an
embodiment of a control system for a window fan is depicted. Power
button 126a, fan button 126b, set point "+" button 126c, and set
point "-" button 126d of control panel 122 are in selective
electrical communication with controller 210, causing one or more
signals to be sent to controller 210 when they are actuated.
Controller 210 is also in electrical communication with AUTO LED
125a, HIGH LED 125b, MED LED 125c, LOW LED 125d, and ON LED 125e of
control panel 122 and is programmed to selectively illuminate the
LEDs based on input received from a user via power button 126a, fan
button 126b, set point "+" button 126c, and/or set point "-" button
126d. Outdoor sensor 96 and indoor sensor 98 are also in electrical
communication with controller 210 and may communicate one or more
signals to controller 210 that are indicative of one or more
characteristics of exterior air and interior air, respectively.
Such characteristics include, without limitation, dry bulb
temperature, wet bulb temperature, absolute humidity, specific
humidity, relative humidity, pressure, and/or dew point
temperature. Controller 210 is also in electrical communication
with relays 214 for lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82 and
drivers 218 for actuated motor 102. The relays 214 are in
electrical communication with lower fan motor 72 and upper fan
motor 82 and can be selectively activated to cause lower fan motor
72 and upper fan motor 82 to be driven at a desired speed of a
plurality of speeds. In some embodiments three relays are provided
and may be selectively activated to drive lower fan motor 72 and
upper fan motor 82 at either a low, medium, or high speed. The
drivers 218 are in electrical communication with actuated motor 102
and may be selectively activated to accurately control actuated
motor 102 and, resultantly, louvers 34 and 92. In some embodiments
four driver channels may be provided in electrical communication
with actuated motor 102 and may be selectively activated to provide
full stepping or half stepping of the actuated motor 102.
[0064] In some embodiments Power button 126a, fan button 126b, set
point "+" button 126c and set point "-" button 126d may be membrane
type buttons that engage a corresponding switch on a circuit board
adjacent the control panel 122 when actuated. The circuit board may
also include the controller 210, AUTO LED 125a, HIGH LED 125b, MED
LED 125c, LOW LED 125d, ON LED 125e, display 124, relays 214 for
lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82, and/or drivers 218 for
the actuated motor 102. The control may be a PIC microcontroller
model number PIC18LF4331-1/PT, the actuator motor 102 may be a PM
Step Motor 24BYJ model manufactured by Best Electronics Industrials
Co., Ltd., and outdoor sensor 96 and indoor sensor 98 may be
Relative Humidity and Temperature Modules HTG3500 Series
manufactured by Measurement Specialties. Referring briefly to FIGS.
5-7, outdoor sensor 96 may be located just inside louver 32 near
the base of louver 32 and strut 45. The outdoor sensor 96 is
located near lower intake portion 52 so as to be appropriately
exposed to exterior air. Referring briefly to FIG. 8 where a
portion of control panel 22 is shown cut away, and to FIGS. 5 and
6, indoor sensor 98 may be located on a circuit board 205 adjacent
the control panel 22 in a position so as to be exposed to the
interior air and be relatively unaffected by any heat generated by
other components attached to the circuit board 205. In FIGS. 1 and
5 apertures 23 are shown that extend through control panel 22 to
enable indoor sensor 98 to be appropriately exposed to indoor air.
Outdoor sensor 96 and indoor sensor 98 may be located elsewhere on
window fan system 10 or may be located remote from window fan
system 10, so long as they are located to be responsive to one or
more characteristics of the exterior air and interior air,
respectively. Outdoor sensor 96 and indoor sensor 98 may be in
wired or wireless electronic communication with electronic
controller 210.
[0065] Referring now to FIG. 18, a flow diagram shows an embodiment
of the generalized logic of controller 210 when fan button 126b is
actuated by a user. If it is the first time fan button 126b has
been pressed, the controller 210 causes AUTO LED 125a to be
illuminated and controller 210 automatically operates the window
fan system 10. An embodiment of the automatic operation of the
window fan system is shown in detail in FIG. 20 and described in
detail hereinafter. If it is the second time fan button 126b has
been pressed, the controller 210 causes HIGH LED 125b to be
illuminated, communicates with relays 214 to cause them to all be
activated, causing lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82 to
operate at a high speed. Controller 210 also communicates with
drivers 218 to ensure actuated motor 102 is appropriately stepped
to place louvers 34 and 92 in an open position to allow airflow
through window fan system 10. If it is the third time fan button
126b has been pressed, the controller 210 causes MED LED 125c to be
illuminated, communicates with relays 214 to cause two relays to be
activated, causing lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82 to
operate at a medium speed. Controller 210 also communicates with
drivers 218 to ensure actuated motor 102 is appropriately stepped
to place louvers 34 and 92 in an open position to allow airflow
through window fan system 10. If it is the fourth time fan button
126b has been pressed, the controller 210 causes LOW LED 125d to be
illuminated, communicates with relays 214 to cause a single relay
to be activated, causing lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82
to operate at a low speed. Controller 210 also communicates with
drivers 218 to ensure actuator motor 102 is appropriately stepped
to place louvers 34 and 92 in an open position to allow airflow
through window fan system 10.
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 19, a flow diagram shows an embodiment
of the generalized logic of controller 210 when set point "+"
button 126c is actuated by a user and when set point "-" button
126d is actuated by a user. If the set point "+" button 126c is
actuated controller 210 increments the currently stored set point
up by one degree. The controller 210 also causes the area of
display 124 that displays the current set point temperature to be
updated to reflect the current set point temperature selected. If
the set point "-" button 126d is actuated controller 210 increments
the currently stored set point down by one degree. The controller
210 also causes the area of display 124 that displays the current
set point temperature to be updated to reflect the current set
point temperature selected. In alternative embodiments increments
smaller or larger than one degree may be used.
[0067] Referring now to FIG. 20, a flow diagram shows an embodiment
of the generalized logic of controller 210 automatically operating
the window fan system 10. In the flow diagram of FIG. 20 interior
dry bulb temperature (I. D. B.), exterior dry bulb temperature (E.
D. B.), interior dew point (I. D. P), and exterior dew point
(E.D.P.) are analyzed by controller 210. In some embodiments indoor
sensor 98 and outdoor sensor 96 supply signals to controller 210
that are indicative of measured interior and exterior dry bulb
temperatures and relative humidity levels and controller 210
calculates an interior and exterior dew point that correspond to
the measured interior and exterior dry bulb temperatures and
relative humidity levels. In some embodiments controller 210 could
calculate dew points by referencing a table, such as a table
containing dry bulb temperatures, relative humidity levels, and dew
point temperatures to determine a dew point temperature that
corresponds to the measured dry bulb temperature and relative
humidity level. In some embodiments controller 210 could calculate
dew points by using one or more formulas. For example, the dew
point could be calculated using the formula: Dew Point
Temperature=[(17.271*Dry Bulb Temperature)/(237.7+Dry Bulb
Temperature)]+ln(Relative Humidity/100), where the temperatures are
in degrees Celsius and "ln" refers to the natural logarithm.
[0068] In other embodiments indoor sensor 98 and outdoor sensor 96
could measure alternative or additional characteristics of the
interior and exterior air and supply signals to controller 210
indicative of such characteristics. Such characteristics include,
without limitation, dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature,
absolute humidity, specific humidity, relative humidity, pressure,
and/or dew point temperature. Controller 210 could then use these
alternative or additional characteristics to compare, either
directly or indirectly, exterior and interior dry bulb temperatures
and exterior and interior dew points for use in the automatic
operation of the window fan system 10. For example, instead of
measuring interior and exterior relative humidity, determining the
interior and exterior dew point from the relative humidity
measurements, and directly comparing the interior and exterior dew
point, interior and exterior relative humidity could be measured,
interior and exterior specific relative humidity determined from
the relative humidity measurements, and interior and exterior
specific relative humidity directly compared. Comparison of the
exterior specific humidity and interior specific humidity may
indirectly indicate the exterior dew point is less than the
interior dew point. For example, if the exterior specific humidity
is less than the interior specific humidity it may indirectly
indicate that the exterior dew point is less than the interior dew
point. Other characteristics of exterior and/or interior air may be
measured and analyzed to directly or indirectly determine if the
exterior dew point is less than an interior dew point. Temperatures
can be set, measured, calculated, and/or displayed in Celsius
and/or Fahrenheit as desired.
[0069] If automatic operation of the window fan system 10 has been
chosen by a user, at step 252 controller 210 determines if the
interior dry bulb temperature as indicated by indoor sensor 98 is
greater than the current set point temperature plus one degree.
Comparing the interior dry bulb temperature to the current set
point temperature plus one degree at this point in the flow diagram
prevents excessive cycling of the lower fan motor 72 and upper fan
motor 82. If at step 252 the interior dry bulb temperature is
determined to be greater than the current set point temperature
plus one degree, at step 254 controller 210 determines if the
interior dry bulb temperature is greater than the current set
point. If the interior dry bulb temperature is greater than the
current set point, at step 256 controller 210 determines if the
exterior dry bulb temperature is less than the interior dry bulb
temperature. If the exterior dry bulb temperature is less than the
interior dry bulb temperature, at step 258 controller 210
determines if the exterior dew point minus five tenths is less than
the interior dew point. If so, at step 260 then the controller 210
turns the motor flag on and opens louvers 34 and 92.
[0070] The controller 210 then determines at step 262 if the
difference between the interior dry bulb temperature and the
current set point temperature (.DELTA. D.B.) is less than or equal
to two. If so, at step 266 the controller 210 activates the
necessary relays to drive the lower fan motor 72 and upper fan
motor 82 at low speed. If the difference between the interior dry
bulb temperature and the current set point temperature is not less
than or equal to two, the controller 210 determines at step 264 if
the difference between the interior dry bulb temperature and the
current set point temperature is greater than two and less than or
equal to three. If so, at step 268 the controller 210 activates the
necessary relays to drive the lower fan motor 72 and upper fan
motor 82 at medium speed. If the difference between the interior
dry bulb temperature and the current set point temperature is not
greater than two and less than or equal to three, then at step 270
the controller 210 activates the necessary relays to drive the
lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82 at high speed.
[0071] Once the controller 210 has activated the necessary controls
to drive the lower fan motor 72 and upper fan motor 82 at low speed
in step 266, medium speed in step 268, or high speed in step 270, a
two minute countdown timer is started in step 274. After the two
minute timer is completed the controller 210 checks to see if the
motor flag is on in step 276 (the motor flag will be on if the
conditions of steps 254, 256, and 258 were met in the previous
loop). If the motor flag is on then controller 210 will proceed to
determine if the conditions of steps 254, 256, and 258 continue to
be met. If the conditions of steps 254, 256, and 258 are met,
controller 210 will again check the difference between the interior
dry bulb temperature and the current set point temperature at steps
262 and 264 to determine if the speed at which the lower fan motor
72 and upper fan motor 82 are being driven needs to be adjusted. If
the conditions of steps 254, 256, or 258 are not met than at step
272 the motor flag will be turned off if it is on, lower fan motor
72 and upper fan motor 82 will also be turned off, and then the two
minute timer of step 274 executed. Following execution of the two
minute timer, the process will proceed to step 252 (since the motor
flag is no longer on) to determine if the indoor dry bulb
temperature is greater than the current set point temperature plus
one degree. If the interior dry bulb temperature is not greater
than the current set point temperature plus one degree, controller
210 again executes a two minute timer at step 274 and after the
timer has run again proceeds to step 252 to determine if the indoor
dry bulb temperature is greater than the current set point plus one
degree.
[0072] Automatic operation of the window fan system 10 will
continue until a user chooses a different fan setting through
actuation of fan button 126b or powers the window fan system down
through actuation of power button 126a. Automatic operation of the
window fan system 10 brings exterior air into an interior area and
exhausts interior air to an exterior area when doing so would be
advantageous in cooling the interior area as desired by a user.
Automatic operation of the window fan system 10 may result in
energy savings without requiring consistent monitoring by a user
and without the need to sync the window fan system 10 with an air
conditioner or other device.
[0073] The methods and control systems described herein, as well as
variations thereof, may be implemented in an air conditioning unit
that includes a compressor and one or more fans that draw exterior
air into an interior area. Such an air conditioning unit may also
include one or more fans that exhaust interior air to an exterior
area. The compressor of the air conditioning unit may be
selectively deactivated when bringing exterior air into an interior
area and/or exhausting interior air to an exterior area would be
advantageous in cooling the interior area. For example, a hotel
room air conditioning unit or a window room air conditioner unit
may be installed in a wall or window and extend between a room and
the outside. The air conditioning unit may include an interior
sensor that monitors one or more characteristics of the air in the
hotel room and an outside sensor that monitors one or more
characteristics of the outside air. The air conditioning unit may
include a fan that draws air from the outside and into the hotel
room. Such a fan may be the same as, or distinct from, a primary
air conditioning fan that blows air into the hotel room that has
first been cooled through an evaporator or other device. The air
conditioning unit may be programmed to utilize the compressor to
cool air being blown from the air conditioning unit into a room
interior when the desired set point is less than the current room
interior temperature and bringing exterior air into the room
interior would not be advantageous in cooling the interior area.
The hotel room air conditioning unit may further be programmed to
deactivate the compressor and provide exterior air into the room
interior when the desired cooling temperature is less than the
current room interior temperature and bringing exterior air into
the room interior would be advantageous in cooling the interior
area.
[0074] The foregoing description of structures and methods has been
presented for purposes of illustration. It is not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise steps and/or
forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations
are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that
the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended
hereto.
* * * * *