U.S. patent application number 13/856014 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-24 for multiplatform heating ventilation and air conditioning control system.
This patent application is currently assigned to GLOBAL SOLAR WATER AND POWER SYSTEMS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is GLOBAL SOLAR WATER AND POWER SYSTEMS, INC.. Invention is credited to Mark E. Snyder.
Application Number | 20140202449 13/856014 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45928392 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140202449 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Snyder; Mark E. |
July 24, 2014 |
MULTIPLATFORM HEATING VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING CONTROL
SYSTEM
Abstract
A multiplatform heating ventilation and air conditioning control
system configured to maximize energy efficiency in maintaining
desired conditions within an area through beneficial use of natural
energy sources. In some embodiments, the multiplatform heating
ventilation and air conditioning control system can include sensors
and a control system. In some embodiments, the sensors can detect
conditions inside and outside of the controlled area to determine
the most efficient method of maintaining desired conditions.
Inventors: |
Snyder; Mark E.; (Poway,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
POWER SYSTEMS, INC.; GLOBAL SOLAR WATER AND |
|
|
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GLOBAL SOLAR WATER AND POWER
SYSTEMS, INC.
Poway
CA
|
Family ID: |
45928392 |
Appl. No.: |
13/856014 |
Filed: |
April 3, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/US2011/054828 |
Oct 4, 2011 |
|
|
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13856014 |
|
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61389630 |
Oct 4, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
126/714 ; 165/59;
62/79; 62/91 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 2011/0006 20130101;
F24F 5/001 20130101; F24F 5/0035 20130101; F24F 11/30 20180101;
F24F 5/0046 20130101; F24F 11/65 20180101; Y02B 30/54 20130101;
F24F 11/62 20180101; F24F 2110/12 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
126/714 ; 62/91;
165/59; 62/79 |
International
Class: |
F24F 5/00 20060101
F24F005/00 |
Claims
1-7. (canceled)
8. A method for efficient cooling control of a building, the method
comprising: circulating untreated ambient air within a structure
when ambient conditions are within a first pre-determined
temperature range; treating ambient air to cool the ambient air to
a desired temperature when ambient conditions are in a second
pre-determined temperature range, wherein treating the ambient air
comprises indirect or direct evaporative cooling; circulating the
treated ambient air within the structure when ambient conditions
are within the second pre-determined temperature range; exhausting
air from the structures; managing attic temperature to assist in
cooling the building, wherein the temperature is managed by venting
warmed attic air and circulating untreated ambient air to maintain
attic temperatures at or below ambient temperatures; and,
circulating cooled building air throughout the building when
ambient temperatures are within a third pre-determined temperature
range, wherein the building air is cooled through indirect
evaporative cooling.
9. A method for efficient heating control of a building, the method
comprising: circulating untreated ambient air when ambient
conditions are within a first pre-determined temperature range;
heating ambient air to obtain a desired temperature when ambient
temperatures are in a second pre-determined temperature range,
wherein heating of ambient air comprises solar heating; managing
attic temperature to assist in heating the building, wherein the
temperature is managed by circulating warmed attic air into the
building and cool building air into the attic to maintain a desired
temperature; and, circulating heated building air throughout the
building when ambient temperatures are within a third
pre-determined temperature range.
10. A method of maximizing building efficiency, the method
comprising: circulating untreated ambient air when ambient
conditions are within a first pre-determined temperature range;
cooling ambient air to obtain a desired temperature when ambient
conditions are in a second pre-determined temperature range,
wherein cooling of ambient air comprises cooling through indirect
evaporative cooling; managing attic temperature to assist in
cooling the building, wherein the temperature is managed by venting
warmed attic air and circulating untreated ambient air to maintain
attic temperatures at or below ambient temperatures; circulating
cooled building air throughout the building when ambient
temperatures are within a third pre-determined temperature range,
wherein the building air is cooled through indirect evaporative
cooling; heating ambient air to obtain a desired temperature when
ambient temperatures are in a fourth pre-determined temperature
range, wherein heating of ambient air comprises solar heating;
managing attic temperature to assist in heating the building,
wherein the temperature is managed by circulating warmed attic air
into the building and cool building air into the attic to maintain
a desired temperature; and circulating heated building air
throughout the building when ambient temperatures are within a
fifth pre-determined temperature range.
11. (canceled)
12. The method of claim 8, wherein two or more electrical devices
are managed to avoid simultaneous start and thus to reduce
electrical demand penalties.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the two or more electrical
devices comprise compressors.
14. The method of claim 8, wherein heat is extracted from high heat
sources with a heat pump.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the heat pump comprises an
air-to water heat pump.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the heat is extracted from at
least one of a kitchen, laundry, pool, from areas around
compressors, or from electrical equipment.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein moisture is simultaneously
extracted from high heat areas.
18-37. (canceled)
38. The method of claim 9, wherein two or more electrical devices
are managed to avoid simultaneous start and thus to reduce
electrical demand penalties.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein the two or more electrical
devices comprise compressors.
40. The method of claim 9, wherein heat is extracted from high heat
sources with a heat pump.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein the heat is extracted from at
least one of a kitchen, laundry, pool, from areas around
compressors, or from electrical equipment.
42. The method of claim 40, wherein moisture is simultaneously
extracted from high heat areas.
43. The method of claim 10, wherein two or more electrical devices
are managed to avoid simultaneous start and thus to reduce
electrical demand penalties.
44. The method of claim 43, wherein the two or more electrical
devices comprise compressors.
45. The method of claim 10, wherein heat is extracted from high
heat sources with a heat pump.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the heat is extracted from at
least one of a kitchen, laundry, pool, from areas around
compressors, or from electrical equipment.
47. The method of claim 45, wherein moisture is simultaneously
extracted from high heat areas.
48. The method of claim 10, further comprising heating water with
excess heat captured from building activities; wherein the heat is
captured through the use of heat pumps, wherein the hot water is
further used for providing additional building climate control or
for providing heated water, and wherein water generated through the
heat capture activities is utilized in connection with the
building.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of PCT Application No.
PCT/US2011/054828, filed Oct. 4, 2011, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Patent Application No. 61/389,630, filed Oct. 4, 2010, the
entirety of each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to heating, ventilation,
humidity, and air conditioning ("HVAC") systems. More specifically,
certain embodiments concern HVAC control systems that are
configured, for example, to efficiently cool one or more
structures, to heat one or more structures, and/or to provide hot
water to one or more structures. Energy reduction methods and
strategies are utilized to decrease overall energy usage and to
achieve net zero energy usage when combined with alternative power
production sources such as solar photovoltaic power, hydropower,
micro-hydropower, geothermal, biomass, biodigester, or any other
alternative power production source.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] As world energy usage and energy demands continue to rise,
the cost of energy has dramatically increased. Additionally, the
world has seen an increase in energy volatility caused by wars,
weather and climate related events and disasters, infrastructure
breakdowns, natural disasters, and production changes and
manipulation, for example. Thus, energy is more precious and
valuable than ever.
[0006] Greater energy conservation can be achieved through
increased efficient energy use, in conjunction with decreased
energy consumption and/or reduced consumption from conventional
energy sources. Energy conservation can result in increased
financial capital, environmental quality, national security,
personal security, and human comfort. Embodiments disclosed herein
relate generally to systems, devices and methods that can provide
improved energy usage, can minimize the loss of energy and can
capture previously wasted or unused energy.
SUMMARY
[0007] The systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein each have
several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for
their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the
claims, some prominent features will now be discussed briefly.
Numerous other embodiments are also contemplated, including
embodiments that have fewer, additional, and/or different
components, steps, features, objects, benefits, and advantages. The
components, aspects, and steps may also be arranged and ordered
differently. After considering this discussion, and particularly
after reading the section entitled "Detailed Description of Certain
Embodiments," one will understand how the features of the devices
and methods disclosed herein can provide advantages over other
known devices and methods.
[0008] Some embodiments relate to a method of controlling the
temperature of a structure. The method of controlling the
temperature of a structure can include, for example, one or more of
sensing a temperature of ambient air outside the structure,
determining whether the sensed temperature is below a first
pre-determined value, above the first pre-determined value and
below a second pre-determined value, or above the second
pre-determined value, pressurizing the structure with ambient air
if the sensed temperature is below the first pre-determined value,
cooling ambient air with an evaporative cooling system if the
sensed temperature is above the first pre-determined value and
below the second pre-determined value, pressurizing the structure
with the cooled ambient air if the sensed temperature is above the
first pre-determined value and below the second pre-determined
value, and using a heat pump to cool the structure if the sensed
temperature is above the second pre-determined value.
[0009] In some embodiments of the method of controlling the
temperature of a structure, the evaporative cooling system can be,
for example, an indirect evaporative cooling system. In some
embodiments of the method of controlling the temperature of a
structure, the first pre-determined value can be, for example,
between about 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 45, 50, 55,
60, 65, 75 or about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 75 degrees
Fahrenheit for example. The second pre-determined value can be, for
example, about 75-110 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, or about 85
to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, for
example. Some embodiments of the method of controlling the
temperature of a structure can further include, for example,
exhausting air from the structure. This air can have, for example,
a temperature greater or less than the first pre-determined
value.
[0010] Some embodiments relate to a method of controlling the
temperature of a structure. This can include, for example,
providing a solar hot air panel, heating ambient air with the solar
hot air panel and directing the heated air into the structure,
sensing a temperature of air within the structure at night,
determining whether the sensed temperature is below a first
pre-determined value, and using a heat pump to heat air within the
structure if the sensed temperature is below the pre-determined
value. The predetermined value can be any desired temperature above
which the temperature is desired. For example, it can be below any
value between about 0 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 20, 25,
30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 75 or about 80 degrees Fahrenheit,
or about 75 degrees Fahrenheit for example.
[0011] Some embodiments of the method of controlling the
temperature of a structure can further include sensing a
temperature of a space disposed over the structure during the day,
determining whether the sensed temperature is above a second
pre-determined value, and circulating ambient air through the
structure if the sensed temperature is above the second
pre-determined value. The predetermined value can be any desired
value. For example, the predetermined value can be any
predetermined value described herein, including without limitation
a temperature above a value between 30 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit
or any value therebetween, for example.
[0012] Some embodiments relate to a method of efficient cooling
control of a building. This method can include, for example,
circulating untreated ambient air within a building when ambient
conditions are within a first pre-determined temperature range,
such as, for example, between 10 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit,
between 30 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, between 40 and 90 degrees
Fahrenheit, between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, between 60 and 70
degrees Fahrenheit, or in any other desired temperature range,
treating ambient air, by, for example, indirect or direct
evaporative cooling, to cool the ambient air to a desired
temperature when ambient conditions are in a second pre-determined
temperature range, such as, for example, between 10 and 150 degrees
Fahrenheit, between 30 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, between 40 and
90 degrees Fahrenheit, between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit,
between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or in any other desired
temperature range, circulating the treated ambient air within the
building when ambient conditions are within the second
pre-determined temperature range, exhausting air from the
structure, managing temperature of an enclosed space of the
building, such as, for example, an attic, to assist in cooling the
building. In some embodiments, the temperature can be managed by,
for example, venting warmed air from the space and circulating
untreated ambient air to maintain temperatures within the space at
or below ambient temperatures, and, circulating cooled building air
throughout the building when ambient temperatures are within a
third pre-determined temperature range, such as, for example,
between 10 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, between 30 and 100 degrees
Fahrenheit, between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, between 50 and 80
degrees Fahrenheit, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or in any
other desired temperature range. In some embodiments, the
circulated cooled air can be cooled through indirect evaporative
cooling.
[0013] Some embodiments relate to a method for efficient heating
control of a building, including, for example, circulating
untreated ambient air when ambient conditions are within a
pre-determined temperature range, such as, for example, between 10
and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, between 30 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit,
between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, between 50 and 80 degrees
Fahrenheit, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or in any other
desired temperature range, heating, by, for example, solar heating,
ambient air to obtain a desired temperature when ambient
temperatures are in a second pre-determined temperature range, such
as, for example, between 10 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, between 30
and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit,
between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, between 60 and 70 degrees
Fahrenheit, or in any other desired temperature range, managing
attic temperature, by, for example, circulating warmed attic air
into the building and cool building air into the attic to maintain
a desired temperature, to assist in heating the building, and
circulating heated building air throughout the building when
ambient temperatures are within a third pre-determined temperature
range, such as, for example, between 10 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit,
between 30 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, between 40 and 90 degrees
Fahrenheit, between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, between 60 and 70
degrees Fahrenheit, or in any other desired temperature range.
[0014] Some embodiments relate to a method of maximizing building
efficiency, including, circulating untreated ambient air when
ambient conditions are within a pre-determined temperature range,
cooling ambient air to obtain a desired temperature when ambient
conditions are in a second pre-determined temperature range. In
some embodiments, the cooling of ambient air can include, for
example cooling through indirect evaporative cooling. The method of
maximizing building efficiency can further include managing attic
temperature to assist in cooling the building. In some embodiments,
the temperature is managed by venting warmed attic air and
circulating untreated ambient air to maintain attic temperatures at
or below ambient temperatures. The method of maximizing building
efficiency can further include circulating cooled building air,
including building air cooled through indirect evaporative cooling,
throughout the building when ambient temperatures are within a
third pre-determined temperature range, heating ambient air,
including heating ambient air with solar heating, to obtain a
desired temperature when ambient temperatures are in a second
pre-determined temperature range, managing attic temperature by
circulating warmed attic air into the building and cool building
air into the attic to maintain a desired temperature to assist in
heating the building, circulating heated building air throughout
the building when ambient temperatures are within a third
pre-determined temperature range, and, heating water with excess
heat captured from building activities. In some embodiments, the
heat can be, for example, captured through the use of heat pumps.
In some embodiments, the hot water can be used to provide
additional building climate control or to provide for heated water
needs. In some embodiments, water generated through the heat
capture activities can be utilized in connection with the
building.
[0015] Some embodiments relate to a method of utilization of an
environmental cycle by a climate control system to decrease energy
required to maintain a desired condition within a defined volume.
This can include, for example, sensing a parameter of the defined
volume, comparing the sensed parameter of the defined volume to a
desired parameter for the defined volume, sensing a parameter of
the environment surrounding the defined volume, comparing the
sensed parameter of the environment surrounding the defined volume
to the sensed parameter of the defined volume and the desired
parameter for the defined volume, and altering the parameter of the
defined volume to match the desired parameter for the defined
volume in part via heat or energy transfer to or from the
environment.
[0016] In some embodiments, two or more electrical devices,
including, for example, one or more compressors, can be managed to
avoid simultaneous start and thus to reduce electrical demand
penalties. In some embodiments, heat can be extracted, for example,
from high heat sources with a heat pump, such as, for example, an
air-to water heat pump. In some embodiments, the heat can be
extracted from any part of a building or from equipment stored in
the building, such as, for example, a kitchen, laundry, pool, from
areas around compressors, or from electrical equipment or areas
around electrical equipment. In some embodiments, moisture can be
simultaneously extracted from high heat areas.
[0017] In some embodiments, a defined volume can include, for
example, the internal volume of a structure, such as, for example,
a residential structure, including a mobile home, or a
non-residential structure. In some embodiments, the defined volume
can include, for example, the internal volume of a tank, such as,
for example, a water tank.
[0018] In some embodiments, the parameter of the defined volume can
include, for example, a temperature or a relative humidity. In some
embodiments, the parameter of the environment can include, for
example, a temperature or a relative humidity.
[0019] In some embodiments, altering the parameter of the defined
volume can include, for example, replacing a portion of the air of
the defined volume with air from the environment, utilizing
captured energy to heat the contents of the defined volume. This
energy can be captured, for example, with a solar heating system
such as, for example, a solar hot air panel or a solar hot water
panel. In some embodiments, altering the parameter of the defined
volume can include, for example, non-environmentally based cooling
with, for example, evaporative cooling or a heat pump, or
non-environmentally caused heating with, for example, a heat
pump.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure
will become more fully apparent from the following description
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding
that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance
with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its
scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity
and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.
[0021] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
one example of a non-limiting embodiment of a HVAC system that may
be implemented with a multiplatform control system.
[0022] FIGS. 2A-2F are block diagrams schematically illustrating
non-limiting examples of various applications for the HVAC system
of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates a top plan view of one
non-limiting examples of an embodiment of a HVAC system configured
to provide winter heating.
[0024] FIG. 3B schematically illustrates a top plan view of a
non-limiting example of the HVAC system of FIG. 3A configured to
provide summer cooling.
[0025] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a non-limiting example of
an attic ventilation system that can be incorporated with the HVAC
systems disclosed herein.
[0026] FIGS. 5A-5C schematically illustrates a non-limiting example
of an embodiment of an attic space ventilation system configured to
operate in three different applications.
[0027] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a non-limiting example of a
hydronic system used in connection with one embodiment of a
multiplatform control system.
[0028] FIGS. 7A-7L are block diagrams schematically illustrating
non-limiting examples of various applications of the hydronic
system of FIG. 6.
[0029] FIG. 8A is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
non-limiting example of an energy production system for use in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0030] FIG. 8B is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
non-limiting example of an energy production system for use in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0031] FIG. 8C is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
non-limiting example of a climate control system for use in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0032] FIG. 8D is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
non-limiting example of a climate control system for use in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0033] FIG. 9 depicts one non-limiting example of an embodiment of
a solar energy system that can be used in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system.
[0034] FIGS. 10A-10C depict various non-limiting examples of
embodiments of utility structures that can optionally be used in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0035] FIG. 11A depicts one non-limiting example of an embodiment
of an electrical system that can be used in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system.
[0036] FIG. 11B provides a closer view of the electrical system
embodiment of FIG. 11A.
[0037] FIG. 12A depicts a side view of one non-limiting example of
an embodiment of a pre-filtration unit that can be used in
connection with some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system.
[0038] FIG. 12B depicts a cross-sectional view of the
pre-filtration unit embodiment of FIG. 12A.
[0039] FIG. 13 depicts one non-limiting example of an embodiment of
a bypass system that can be used in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system.
[0040] FIG. 14 depicts one non-limiting example of an embodiment of
a radiator cooling system that can be used in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
[0041] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description and drawings are not meant to
be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes
may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the
subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that
the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described
herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged,
substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different
configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make
part of this disclosure.
[0042] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to multiplatform
systems, for example, HVAC control systems for residential
structures, for example, houses, and/or for commercial structures,
for example, restaurants. As used herein, "multiplatform" control
systems refer to control systems that incorporate multiple systems
for heating and/or cooling, for example, heat pumps, solar hot air
modules, and/or evaporative cooling systems. In this way,
multiplatform control systems may utilize the most efficient system
or method available to heat or cool a given structure depending on
climatic conditions (e.g., temperature and/or relative humidity).
For example, a multiplatform control system may control a
conventional heat pump and a solar hot air module to provide heat
to a given structure. However, a person having ordinary skill in
the art will understand that the embodiments disclosed herein can
be implemented to control the heating and/or cooling of a structure
as a stand alone system as well as in a multiplatform system. For
example, the air circulation system discussed below with reference
to FIG. 1 can be implemented to supplement HVAC capabilities
provided by a conventional heat pump and/or can be implemented as
the primary HVAC system for any given structure.
[0043] The HVAC systems disclosed herein can include smart board
and/or analog control components with one or more sensors that
initiate the various methods of heating, cooling, and ventilation.
The control components can be configured to minimize energy usage
by a HVAC system by controlling the operation of different
components of the HVAC system. In one embodiment, control
components can limit the use of a heat pump during summer nights to
reduce power consumption required for cooling. In one embodiment,
control components can limit the use of a heat pump during winter
days to reduce power consumption required for heating.
Additionally, the control components may monitor the power use of
various HVAC system components to assess, diagnose, optimize, and
maintain these components. The control components may also monitor
waste heat sources, for example, kitchen areas, and recycle waste
heat to limit power consumption required for HVAC.
[0044] Several non-limiting examples of embodiments will now be
described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like
numerals refer to like elements throughout. The terminology used in
the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted
in any limited or restrictive manner, simply because it is being
utilized in conjunction with a detailed description of certain
specific embodiments. Furthermore, embodiments can include several
novel features, no single one of which is solely responsible for
its desirable attributes or which is essential to practicing the
technology herein described.
[0045] In some embodiments, the multiplatform HVAC control system
can, for example, tie local environmental cycles to the structure
associated with the multiplatform HVAC control system. The
multiplatform HVAC control system can, in some embodiments,
integrate the specific local environmental cycles into the
associated structure to optimize heating, ventilation, air
conditioning, and humidity control. In some embodiments integrated
environmental factors can include, for example, diurnal swing,
solar gain, solar radiation, solar reflectance, solar refractance,
absorption, adsorption, or any other environmental factor. In some
embodiments, the multiplatform HVAC control system uniquely combine
technologies to harness these environmental factors, including, for
example, a hot air panel, a cold air panel, an indirect and/or
direct pre-cooler associated with one or several condensers, a
solar attic ventilator, a solar fan, an economizer cycle, a
ventilator, traumwalls, an attachable and/or detachable eaves,
geothermal wells, which can be located, for example, in ground
loops or under a floor, and/or any other technology.
[0046] In some embodiments, the multiplatform HVAC control system
can be configured to advantageously use structural environmental
conditions to minimize energy consumption. In some embodiments, the
multiplatform HVAC control system can be configured to use, for
example, waste heat, low and/or high humidity, or any other
condition within the structure to minimize energy consumption.
Advantageously, the use of a multiplatform HVAC control system can
allow the capture and use of the, until now, largely ignored
sources of available energy. This energy can be used for heating
and for cooling and can decrease the high cost and energy
consumption associated with the use of, for example, conventional
heat pumps, natural gas, electric heating, or other heating and
cooling systems.
[0047] In some embodiments, the multiplatform HVAC control system
can sense a parameter of a controlled area such as, for example, a
structure, a room, a container, or any other desired area. In some
embodiments, this parameter can be, for example, a temperature, a
relative humidity, or any other parameter.
[0048] In some embodiments, the multiplatform HVAC control system
can compare the parameter of the controlled area with a desired
parameter for the controlled area. This desired parameter can be a
fixed value, or variable. In some embodiments, this parameter can
be set with an input device, such as, for example, a thermostat. In
some embodiments, this desired parameter could be any value between
0 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, 30 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, 50 to 80
degrees Fahrenheit, or in any other desired numbers. Similarly, in
some embodiments, this desired parameter could be between 0 and 100
percent relative humidity, between 15 and 80 percent relative
humidity, between 25 and 60 percent relative humidity, between 35
and 50 percent relative humidity, or any other desired relative
humidity percent. The comparison of the sensed parameter of the
controlled area with the desired parameter of the controlled
parameter can determine if the sensed parameter is within a
designated range of the desired parameter. This range can be,
within 30 percent of the desired parameter, within 20 percent of
the desired parameter, within 10 percent of the desired parameter,
within 5 percent of the desired parameter, within 1 percent of the
desired parameter, or within any other range relative to the
desired parameter. In one embodiment, this range can be expressed
as a temperature, such as, for example, a within 20 degrees
Fahrenheit, within 10 degrees Fahrenheit, within 5 degrees
Fahrenheit, within 1 degrees Fahrenheit, or within any other
desired temperature. In some embodiments, this range can be a
relative humidity, such as, for example, within 30 percent relative
humidity, within 20 percent relative humidity, within 10 percent
relative humidity, within 5 percent relative humidity, within 1
percent relative humidity, or within any other range of relative
humidity. If the sensed parameter is within the specified range of
the desired parameter, then, for example, the multiplatform HVAC
control system of some embodiments may take no action and await a
sensed parameter outside of the specified range of the desired
parameter.
[0049] If the sensed parameter is outside of the specified range of
the desired parameter, some embodiments of the multiplatform HVAC
control system can sense a parameter of an area outside the
controlled area, such as, for example, the environment in which the
structure is located. This parameter can include, for example, the
outdoor temperature, outdoor relative humidity, a solar parameter
such as, for example, insolation, the heating or cooling ability of
a geothermal system, or any other parameter. The sensed parameter
of the area outside the controlled area is compared to the sensed
parameter for the controlled area and the desired parameter for the
controlled area. Based on the relative positioning of the sensed
parameter of the area outside the controlled area to the sensed
parameter of the controlled and the desired parameter of the
controlled area, a method of changing the parameter of the
controlled area is selected. Thus, based on the parameter of the
area outside the controlled area, a method of heat and/or energy
transfer is selected which can, for example, bring the sensed
parameter into the desired range with the least amount of energy.
This can include, for example, mixing air from outside the
controlled area with air inside the controlled area, solar heating,
evaporative cooling, use of a heat pump, or any other technique to
transfer heat and/or energy.
[0050] Some embodiments relate to methods and materials for
improving the heating and cooling efficiency of structures, for
example, by utilizing an improved insulation methodology. Also,
some embodiments relate to structures, including for example,
manufactured structures and modular structures such as manufactured
homes and modular homes. In some aspects the methods can provide
improved insulation of the structures including by minimizing
adverse moisture and/or by ensuring sufficient circulation to
ensure fresh air, etc.
[0051] Traditional insulation techniques often involve the use of
"cavity" insulation, or in other words, the insertion of insulation
between wall studs and between rafters on ceilings. The cavity
insulation methods can be inefficient due to significant loss of
temperature, such as heat, through conduction via the studs and
rafters. Furthermore, infiltration leads to significant loss of or
change of temperature via gaps and other openings that occur in
structures, particularly as structures age, settle, etc.
[0052] Thus, some embodiments relate to the surprising and
unexpected methods, materials and structures for improving the
heating and cooling insulation of homes, including in some aspects
with no adverse effects due to excess moisture (e.g., mold) and/or
to lack of circulated air. The methods can include wrapping or
sealing a structure such as a modular or manufactured home on the
exterior portion of the frame with an insulative material. In some
aspects the insulative material is continuous in the sense that it
covers the entire exterior region, except doors and windows, for
example. The insulative material also can be included on the
exterior of the foundation. In some aspects the insulative material
can be a material at least in part made from Biaxially-oriented
polyethylene terephthalate (BoPET; e.g., Mylar), for example a
single or dual sided Mylar product. For example, the p2000 product
sold by P2000 systems and Proactive Technology Inc. In some
embodiments traditional cavity insulation can be used in addition
to the wrap material, while in others no cavity insulation is
required or used, if desired.
[0053] As one example, a structure can be illustrated by the
following example of a modular home. It should be understood that
the methods, material and structure can be applied to other
structures besides modular homes, for example, manufactured homes,
non-manufactured homes, mobile homes, etc. In the non-limiting
example, the modular home is "wrapped" in P2000 insulation material
by contacting or attaching the P2000 material to one or more of:
the exterior side of the studs, the exterior of the joists, the
exterior of the rafters, underside or exterior the floor studs and
the exterior of the foundation. It should be understood that the
material can be configured so as to not cover things such as
windows, doors, vents, etc. The contacted or attached insulative
material can then be covered with one or more additional exterior
materials or coverings. For example, the walls can be covered with
one or more of plywood, weather coating, concrete, stucco, paint,
etc. The joist or rafter insulative material can be covered by one
or more of plywood, tar, weather coating, paint, stone, shingles,
etc. Similar exterior coatings or treatments can be applied to the
floor and foundation insulative material, if desired. The methods
further can include configuring the modular home for proper
ventilation and airflow. An example of a minimum airflow is 70-200
cubic feet per minute (CFM), in some aspects 85-150 CFM or in some
aspects about 100 CFM, for example, all for at least 8-15 hours per
day, or in some aspects for at least 10-13 hours per day, or in
some aspects for at least about 12 hours per day. In some
embodiments, the insulative material can be contacted, attached,
adhered to concrete structures such as foundations using any
suitable technique. For example, the insulative material can be
positioned prior to pouring the concrete foundation such that upon
pouring it will contact and stick to the concrete. In some aspects
the insulative material can be implemented with integrated concrete
form technologies, for example.
[0054] Surprisingly and unexpectedly, the structures utilizing the
above-described methods exhibit improved avoidance of loss due to
conduction and/or infiltration.
[0055] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
one embodiment of a HVAC system 100 that may be implemented with a
multiplatform control system. The HVAC system 100 includes an air
circulation system 130 that is fluidly coupled with a structure
102. The structure 102 may be any structure, including, for
example, a house, barn, garage, storage facility, industrial
structure, commercial building, and/or place of worship. The
structure 102 includes a main space 101, an attic space 103
disposed over the main portion, and an optional lower space 104
disposed below the main portion. The lower space 104 may include,
for example, a cellar, basement, or crawl space. In some
embodiments, the main space 101 is fluidly coupled to the attic
space 103 by one or more vents or openings 121. As discussed in
more detail below, vents 121 may be barometric vents configured to
open or close depending on pressure conditions. For example, the
vents 121 may be configured to open when the pressure of the main
space 101 is above a certain pre-determined value and/or to close
when the pressure of the main space 101 is below the pre-determined
value.
[0056] Still referring to FIG. 1, the attic space 103 may include
one or more vents 123 configured to provide a fluid conduit from
the attic space 103 to the environment outside of structure 102. In
some embodiments, the attic vents 123 can be produced by O'Hagin's,
Inc. of Rohnert Park, Calif. The attic vents 123 can be controlled
independently from vents 121 disposed between the attic space 103
and the main space 101 such that attic vents 123 may be closed when
the vents 121 are open and/or may be open when the vents 121 are
closed. In this way, the attic space 103 can include at least four
ventilation configurations. A first configuration can include the
attic vents 123 in a closed configuration and the vents 121 in a
closed configuration. A second configuration can include the attic
vents 123 in an open configuration and the vents 121 in an open
configuration. A third configuration can include the attic vents
123 in an open configuration and the vents 121 in a closed
configuration. A fourth configuration can include the attic vents
123 in a closed configuration and the vents 121 in an open
configuration. Further, in some embodiments, the vents 121 can be
configured such that at least one vent 121 is in an open
configuration and such that at least one other vent 121 is in a
closed configuration. Similarly, attic vents 123 can be configured
such that at least one attic vent 123 is in an open configuration
and such that at least one other attic vent 123 is in a closed
configuration. Thus, the attic space 103 may be controlled to
optionally exchange air or fluid with the main space 101 and/or the
ambient environment disposed outside of the structure 102.
[0057] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the air circulation
system 130 can include an air intake 132 configured to receive
ambient air from outside the structure 102 and an air circulator
disposed within a housing 136. The air circulator may be configured
to direct air received through the intake 132 to the structure 102
by one or more supply vents, register duct, or conduits 133. In
some embodiments, the air circulator comprises a centrifugal fan or
squirrel-cage fan configured to direct air through a supply conduit
133 to the structure 102. Thus, the air circulation system 130 can
be configured to pressurize the main space 101 of structure 102 by
providing an air flow stream through supply conduit 133.
[0058] In some embodiments, supply conduit 133 provides an air flow
stream to the main space 101 through one or more vents 135 disposed
in the floor of the main space 101. In another embodiment, the air
circulation system 130 may be disposed within the lower space 104
of the structure 102 and the air circulation system 130 is
configured to provide an air flow stream to the main space 101
through one or more ducts 105 that are fluidly connected with the
main space 101. In some embodiments, ducts 105 are positioned, for
example, under the crawl space 104 or in the attic space 103. As
shown in FIG. 1, the air circulation system can also include one or
more return conduits 137 configured to receive air from the main
space 101 through one or more vents 138 and direct the received air
to the housing 136. A controllable (e.g., motorized) damper or
stopping mechanism 139 can be disposed within the return conduit
137 to open or close the return conduit 137. Thus, the air
circulation system 130 can supply air to the structure 102 through
the supply conduit 133 and/or can receive air from structure 102
through return conduit 137 depending on whether damper 139 is open
or closed.
[0059] In some climatic conditions, it may be desirable to pre-cool
ambient air that is received by the air circulation system 130
through the intake 132. Thus, a pre-cooling system 131 can
optionally be disposed between the intake 132 and the housing 136.
The pre-cooling system 131 can comprise various components
configured to cool air that passes therethrough. In one embodiment,
pre-cooling system 131 includes an evaporative cooling system that
is configured to cool air that passes therethrough by transferring
latent heat from the air to water. In some embodiments, pre-cooling
system 131 can include direct, indirect, and/or direct/indirect
evaporative cooling system to control the amount of water that may
optionally be added to air that passes therethrough. For example, a
direct evaporative cooling system may be configured to cool air
that passes therethrough and may add moisture to the air. In
another example, an indirect evaporative cooling system may be
configured to cool air that passes therethrough without adding
moisture to the air. In yet another example, an indirect/direct
evaporative cooling system may be configured to cool air that
passes therethrough by direct cooling, which may add moisture to
the air, in a first step, and then indirectly cooling the air in a
second step. Thus, the pre-cooling system 131 can be configured to
treat the temperature and specific humidity of air that is received
through the intake 132. In some embodiments, HVAC system 100
optionally includes one or more filtering elements (not shown)
disposed between the air intake 132 and the air circulator. The
filtering elements can be configured to filter air that passes
therethrough to separate solid materials, for example, particulate
matter, from air received through the intake 132.
[0060] Still referring to FIG. 1, one or more solar hot air modules
150 can optionally be disposed within the structure 102 to transfer
thermal energy received from electromagnetic radiation (e.g.,
sunlight) to air disposed within the structure 102. In one
embodiment, a solar hot air module 150 is disposed within a wall of
the main space 101 and configured to transfer thermal energy from
sunlight incident thereon to air disposed within the main space
101. Examples of solar hot air modules are described in U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/382,798 which is hereby incorporated
by reference in its entirety. Generally, solar hot air modules can
include a solar module configured to receive thermal energy and a
solar panel configured to transfer the received thermal energy to
air that passes therethrough. The solar panel may include one or
more fans to draw air into the panel and one or more vents to
exhaust heated air from the panel. Thus, the one or more solar hot
air modules 150 can be configured to heat air within the structure
102 during the day time.
[0061] The HVAC system schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 may
further include one or more sensors 140 disposed within the main
space 101 and/or one or more sensors 142 disposed within the attic
space 103. The sensors 140, 142 can be configured to sense an air
temperature within the main space 101 or attic space 103 and/or
relative humidity levels within the main space 101 or attic space
103. The sensors 140, 142 may provide the sensed characteristics
(e.g., temperature and/or relative humidity) to control circuitry
(not shown) configured to control the HVAC system 100. Based on the
sensed characteristics, the control circuitry may adjust various
components and/or systems of the HVAC system 100 to change
climactic conditions within the structure 102. When the HVAC system
100 is part of a multiplatform system including a conventional heat
pump (not shown) and/or other components, the control circuitry may
control the various components of the multiplatform system to
maximize the efficiency and/or minimize energy consumption of the
multiplatform system.
[0062] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in some implementations,
HVAC system 100 may be configured to cool structure 102 when the
temperature of air outside the structure 102 is below a
predetermined value. For example, in one embodiment, HVAC system
100 may be configured to cool the structure 102 when the outside
air temperature is below about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In this
embodiment, the air circulator disposed within housing 136 may be
configured to draw outside air in through intake 132. The received
air may be directed to the main space 103 through supply conduit
133 and vents 135. The air circulator may be configured to provide
the air to the structure 102 at an air flow rate sufficient to
pressurize the structure 102 relative to the surrounding
environment. As a result, air within the main space 101 that is
warmer than the air 111 provided through vents 135 may rise to the
top of the main space 101 and be forced into the attic space 101
through vents 121. Similarly, air 113 in the attic space 101 that
is warmer than the air received through vents 121 may be exhausted
through the attic vents 123. Thus, the air circulator may
continuously provide air into the structure 102 that is below the
predetermined value to force warmer air out of the structure 102 in
order to cool the structure 102.
[0063] In another embodiment, HVAC system 100 may be configured to
cool the structure 102 when the outside temperature is above a
first predetermined value but below a second predetermined value.
For example, in one embodiment, HVAC system 100 may be configured
to cool the structure 102 when the outside air temperature is above
about 70 degrees Fahrenheit and below about 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
In this embodiment, the air circulator disposed within housing 136
may be configured to draw outside air in through intake 132. The
received air may be cooled by a pre-cooling system 131 before
passing through housing 136 to supply conduit 133 such that the air
is below a third predetermined value. As discussed above, the
pre-cooling system 131 may optionally be configured to add moisture
to air received through the intake 132 in extremely dry climates.
The cooled air may then be directed to the main space 103 through
vents 135. The air circulator may be configured to provide the air
to the structure 102 at an air flow rate sufficient to pressurize
the structure 102 relative to the surrounding environment. As a
result, air within the main space 101 that is warmer than the air
111 provided through vents 135 may rise to the top of the main
space 101 and be forced into the attic space 101 through vents 121.
Similarly, air 113 in the attic space 101 that is warmer than the
air received through vents 121 may be exhausted through the attic
vents 123. Thus, the air circulator may continuously provide air
into the structure 102 that is below the third predetermined value
to force warmer air out of the structure 102 in order to cool the
structure 102. In another embodiment, HVAC system 100 may be
configured to cool the structure 102 without drawing in outside
air, for example, when outside air is above a predetermined value.
For example, air circulation system 130 may include a direct,
indirect, and/or indirect/direct cooling system disposed within
housing 136 and damper 139 may be opened to allow the air
circulation system 130 to cycle air from the house through the
cooling system in a closed loop.
[0064] In yet another embodiment, HVAC system 100 may be configured
to heat the structure 102 when the outside is below a predetermined
value. For example, hot air solar module 150 may be configured to
transfer thermal energy from sunlight during the day to air within
the main space 101. To maintain the temperature within the main
space 101, vents 121 may be closed to prevent heated air from
exhausting to the attic space 103. Additionally, attic vents 123
may be closed to prevent the exhaust of warm air from the attic
space 101. In this way, the solar hot air module 150 may warm the
main space 101 of structure 102 during the day. In some conditions,
it may be desirable to circulate ambient air from outside the
structure 102 via the air circulation system 130 to prevent the
main space 101 from getting too warm. In one embodiment, the vents
121 may be closed, solar hot air module 150 may operate to warm the
main space 101, damper 139 may be opened, and the air circulator
may be configured to slowly circulate ambient air through main
space 101 to keep the temperature within the main space above a
first predetermined value and below a second predetermined value.
In this configuration, the attic vents 123 may be closed to
maintain a desired temperature within the attic space 103 to slow
the loss of heat from the attic space 103 at night when the solar
hot air module 150 is not operative.
[0065] In some configurations, it may be desirable to maintain a
warm temperature within the main space 101 while allowing air from
the attic space 103 to exhaust to the outside environment. Thus,
vents 121 may be closed to prevent the exhausting of warm air from
the main space 101 to the attic space 103 and the attic vents 123
may be open to allow warm air from the attic space to exhaust to
the outside environment. In this configuration, the attic space 103
may act as a heat cycle to transfer thermal energy from the main
space 101 to cooler air that enters the attic space 103 through
attic vents 123. In some embodiments, warmth from the attic space
103 may infiltrate the main space 101 through the ceiling. In this
way, thermal energy from the relatively warm attic space 101 air
may transfer to the main space 101 by thermal transference similar
to an inversion layer effect. In some embodiments, the higher
temperature air may transfer by convection.
[0066] The embodiments discussed above relate to exemplary
embodiments of HVAC systems 100 that may be configured to cool
and/or heat structure 102. A person having ordinary skill in the
art will understand that the features disclosed herein can be
implemented in a multitude of different ways to affect the
climactic conditions within a given structure (e.g., to heat, cool,
and/or control the specific humidity of air within the structure).
For example, the air circulation system 130 discussed above can be
supplemented with a conventional heat pump to cool/heat structure
102 and/or can be configured to alternately operate with other HVAC
components (e.g., a heat pump system). Further, a person having
ordinary skill in the art will understand that the efficiency of
the systems disclosed herein can be buttressed by the
implementation of passive solar building designs configured to
reduce the energy required to heat and/or cool a given
structure.
[0067] Turning now to FIGS. 2A-2F, block diagrams schematically
illustrating various example applications for the HVAC system of
FIG. 1 are provided. FIG. 2A schematically illustrates a first
example application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for situations
when the temperature for air outside the structure range between
about 75 and about 90 degrees Fahrenheit at night with a relative
humidity of less than about 30% (e.g., during summer month and/or
summer transition month). In this application, a thermostat within
the structure may call for the main space to be cooled to a
temperature of between about 65 and about 70 degrees Fahrenheit as
shown by block 201a. Control circuitry may receive this input
information and call for information from one or more sensors as to
whether air outside the structure has a temperature of between
about 75 and about 90 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 203a.
Additionally, the control circuitry may call for information from
one or more sensors as to whether the relative humidity of air
outside the structure is less than about 30% as indicated by block
209a. If either of these parameters is not met, the control
circuitry may call for a heat pump to run in order to cool the
structure as indicated by block 205a. On the other hand, if both of
the parameters are met, the control circuitry may call for the air
control system to pressurize the main space of the structure with
air from outside the structure as shown by block 211a.
Additionally, the air control system may pre-cool the outside air
before directing it into the structure as indicated by block 213a.
In some implementations, an attic space may include one or more
fans to force air from the attic space to the surrounding
environment. In these implementations, the control circuitry may
call for the attic space fans to run when a temperature of the
attic space is above about 80 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block
215a. In some embodiments of HVAC systems and/or control systems
may include a manual override function as shown by block 207a to
override the automatic and/or programmed selections of the control
circuitry.
[0068] FIG. 2B schematically illustrates a second example
application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for daytime operation
during the summer and/or a summer transition month. In this
application, a thermostat within the structure may call for the
main space to be cooled to a temperature of between about 65 and
about 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 201b. Control
circuitry may receive this input information and call for
information from one or more sensors as to whether air outside the
structure has a temperature of less than about 75 degrees
Fahrenheit as shown by block 203b. Additionally, the control
circuitry may call for information from one or more sensors as to
whether the relative humidity of air outside the structure is less
than about 30% as indicated by block 209b. If the relative humidity
is less than about 30%, the control circuitry may call for the air
circulation system to pressurize the main space of the structure
with air from outside the structure as indicated by block 213b. In
some configurations, the air circulation system may include a
pre-cooling system as discussed above to pre-cool the air received
by the air circulation system. If the relative humidity is greater
than about 30%, the control circuitry may optionally call for a
heat pump to run in order to cool the structure to the desired
temperature as indicated by block 205b. In some implementations, an
attic space may include one or more fans to force air from the
attic space to the surrounding environment. In these
implementations, the control circuitry may call for the attic space
fans to run when a temperature of the attic space is above about 80
degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 215b. In some embodiments of
HVAC systems and/or control systems may include a manual override
function as shown by block 207b to override the automatic and/or
programmed selections of the control circuitry.
[0069] FIG. 2C schematically illustrates a third example
application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for nighttime operation
during the summer in desert, coastal, and/or mountain climates
where the nighttime temperatures are less than about 65 degrees
Fahrenheit for 6 hours or more and the relative humidity is less
than about 30%. In this application, a thermostat within the
structure may call for the main space to be cooled to a temperature
of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 201c. Control
circuitry may receive this input information and call for
information from one or more sensors as to whether air outside the
structure has a temperature of less than about 70 degrees
Fahrenheit as shown by block 203c. If the outside air temperature
is less than about 65 degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may
call for the ventilation systems damper to open and the air
circulation system to pressurize the main space of the structure
with air from outside the structure as indicated by block 213c. If
the thermostat within the structure indicates that the temperature
within the structure is about 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the control
circuitry may call for the air circulation system to run at a
diminished capacity, for example, half speed, as shown by block
217c to maintain a main space temperature of about 60 degrees
Fahrenheit without significant over cooling. Conversely, if the
outside air temperature is greater than about 75 degrees
Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may call for the heat pump to
cool the main space to a temperature of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit
as shown by block 205c. In such a situation, the outside air
temperature would not be low enough to cool the main space to a
temperature of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In some
implementations, an attic space may include one or more fans to
force air from the attic space to the surrounding environment. In
these implementations, the control circuitry may call for the attic
space fans to run when a temperature of the attic space is above a
certain pre-determined value. However, when the outside air
temperature is below about 65 degrees Fahrenheit and the thermostat
calls for cooling of about 60 degrees, the attic space fans will be
shut off by the control circuitry as indicated by block 215c. In
some embodiments of HVAC systems and/or control systems may include
a manual override function as shown by block 207c to override the
automatic and/or programmed selections of the control
circuitry.
[0070] FIG. 2D schematically illustrates a fourth example
application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for operation in coastal
or other climates with nighttime temperatures greater than about 75
degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity greater than about 30%. In
this application, a thermostat within the structure may call for
the main space to be cooled to a temperature of between about 65
and about 70 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 201d. Control
circuitry may receive this input information and call for
information from one or more sensors as to whether air outside the
structure has a temperature of greater than about 75 degrees
Fahrenheit as shown by block 203d. If the outside air temperature
is less than about 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may
call for the air circulation system to pressurize the main space of
the structure with air from outside the structure as indicated by
block 213d. If the outside temperature is greater than about 75
degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may call for a heat pump
to cool the main space as shown by block 205d. To reduce the
relative humidity within the main space, the air cooled by the heat
pump may be dehumidified as shown by block 227d. Water that is
separated from the cooled air may purified as shown by block 229d
to be used as potable water and/or may be used for non-potable
applications including greywater use, agricultural use, and/or
toilet use, as indicated by reference numeral 231d. In some
embodiments in which chilled water is desired, and as depicted in
block 225d, an air-to-water heat pump can cool water. Waste heat
from the heat pump may be harnessed to heat domestic water within
the structure as indicated by block 223d and/or may be exhausted
outside the structure. The attic space may include one or more fans
that are controlled by the control circuitry to run during the
daytime when an attic space temperature sensor indicates that the
air temperature within the attic space is greater than about 80
degrees Fahrenheit.
[0071] FIG. 2E schematically illustrates a fifth example
application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for operation in desert
or other climates with relative humidity of less than about 30%. In
this application, a thermostat within the structure may call for
the main space to be cooled to a temperature of between about 70
and about 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 201e. Control
circuitry may receive this input information and call for
information from one or more sensors as to whether air outside the
structure has a temperature of greater than about 90 degrees
Fahrenheit as shown by block 203e. If the outside air temperature
is less than about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may
call for the air circulation system to pressurize the main space of
the structure with air from outside the structure as indicated by
block 213e. If the outside temperature is greater than about 90
degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry may receive an input from
one or more sensors regarding the relative humidity of the outside
air as indicated by block 209e. If the relative humidity of the
outside air is less than about 30%, the control circuitry may call
for the heat pump fan to draw air through a pre-cooling system as
indicated by block 250e to cool the received air. The fan may then
distribute this cooled air throughout the main space without the
use of the heat pump compressor as indicated by block 252e. A
person having ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that
if the relative humidity of the outside air is greater than about
30%, the control circuitry may call for the heat pump to cool the
main space with the use of the compressor (not shown). The attic
space may include one or more fans that are controlled by the
control circuitry to run during certain situations. As shown by
block 215e, when the heat pump fan is operating the attic space
fans may be non-operative. In some embodiments of HVAC systems
and/or control systems may include a manual override function as
shown by block 207e to override the automatic and/or programmed
selections of the control circuitry.
[0072] FIG. 2F schematically illustrates a sixth example
application for the HVAC system of FIG. 1 for operation during a
winter day. In this application, a thermostat within the structure
may call for the main space to be heating to a temperature of
between about 70 and about 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block
201f. Control circuitry may receive this input information and call
for information from one or more sensors as to whether air outside
the structure has a temperature of less than about 70 degrees
Fahrenheit as shown by block 203f. If the outside temperature is
less than about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry will
not call for the air circulation system to pressurize the main
space with outside air and the return conduit damper will be closed
as shown by block 213f. Also, if the outside temperature is less
than about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the control circuitry will call
for the solar hot air module to transfer thermal energy to the air
within the main space as shown by block 269f. If the solar hot air
module is unable to sufficiently heat the air within the main
space, thermal energy may be transferred from hot water to air
within the main space. For example, solar hot water (e.g., water
heated by solar heating systems) may be provided as shown by block
261f and directed through a heating coil element to transfer
thermal energy from the solar hot water to air within the main
space as shown by block 263f. If solar hot water is not available
but another hot water source is available, as shown by block 265f,
this water may also be provided to the heating coil element to heat
the main space. Lastly, a heat pump disposed in another portion of
the structure and/or the main space may be configured to heat the
main space as shown by block 267f. The attic space may include one
or more fans that are controlled by the control circuitry to run
during certain situations. As shown by block 215f, when the
thermostat calls for heating, the attic space fans or vents may be
non-operative to conserve thermal energy within the structure. In
some embodiments of HVAC systems and/or control systems may include
a manual override function as shown by block 207f to override the
automatic and/or programmed selections of the control
circuitry.
[0073] Turning now to FIG. 3A, a top plan view of one embodiment of
a HVAC system 300a is schematically illustrated. The system 300a
includes a structure 302a that includes a main space 301a. The HVAC
system 300a can be configured to heat and/or cool the main space
301a to a desired temperature. The main space 301a includes a
thermostat 357a that may be part of a control system including
control circuitry to control and/or regulate the various components
of the HVAC system 300a. The system 300a further includes at least
one warm air vent 335a, at least one barometric vent 323a, at least
one upduct 321a, and optionally includes at least one heat source
338a. Warm air may be provided to the main space 301a by at least
one fan 351a. The fan 351a may receive warm air from any suitable
source, for example, a solar hot air module, a hydronic coil,
and/or a heat pump. The warm air directed by the fan 351a may be
received in the main space 301a through the warm air vents 335a.
Similar to the HVAC system 100 of FIG. 1, warm air that is received
within the main space 301a may be maintained within the main space
301a by configuring the barometric vents 323a and the upducts 321a
to remain closed during heating cycles. Additionally, colder air
that sinks to the bottom of the main space 301a may be drawn from
the main space 301a by one or more conduits to increase the heat of
the main space. Further, HVAC system 300a may harness waste heat
from the various heat sources 338a within the main space to further
improve the heating efficiency of the system 300a. Heat sources
338a may include any heat source disposed within the main space
301a of a structure 302a, including, for example, televisions,
computer hardware, electric appliances, gas appliances, and/or
living beings (e.g., farm animals). Heat from the heat sources 338a
may be directed to the main space 301a instead of to an overlying
attic space to increase the temperature within the main space
without requiring additional energy. As indicated in FIG. 3A,
system 300a may further include at least one exterior sensor to
provide at least one outside air characteristic to the control
circuitry.
[0074] Turning now to FIG. 3B, HVAC system 300a of FIG. 3A is
schematically illustrated again. In contrast to FIG. 3A, HVAC
system 300a in FIG. 3B is configured to provide cooling to the
structure 302a. Instead of a source of warm air, fan 351a is
configured to receive air that is cooler than the air within the
main space 301a from a source of cool air. The source of cool air
may comprise any suitable source, for example, a heat pump, an
evaporative cooling system, and/or a system configured to circulate
ambient air from outside the structure 302a within the main space
301a. When the source of cool air includes ambient air provided to
the main space 301a at a flow rate sufficient to increase the
pressure of the structure 302a relative to the outside environment,
barometric vents 323a and upducts 321a are configured to be open to
allow warmer air to exhaust to an overlying attic space. In this
way, pressurizing the main space 301a may provide cooler air to the
main space 301a and drive relatively warmer air out of the
structure 302a through attic vents (not shown). Additionally,
instead of harnessing waste heat from the heat sources 338a, waste
heat may also be exhausted through the attic to maintain a desired
temperature within the main space 302a.
[0075] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an attic space ventilation
system 400 that can be incorporated with the various HVAC systems
disclosed herein. System 400 includes a module 480 that is
configured to draw in ambient air from outside an attic space 403
while exhausting air from within the attic space 403. In this way,
the air temperature within the attic space 403 may be regulated by
system 400. In one implementation, module 480 includes at least one
fan configured to draw air into the attic space 403 at a certain
flow rate and at least one vent configured to allow for the egress
of air from the attic space 403 at the certain flow rate. The attic
space ventilation system 400 may be useful during situations when
it is desirable to cool an attic space. For example, attic space
403 may include air having a temperature above a certain value
while the temperature of air outside the attic space 403 is below
the certain value. The module 480 may draw in air that is
relatively colder than air within the attic space 403, this air may
sink toward the bottom most portion of the attic space 403, and the
input of air from outside the attic space 403 may force warmer air
out of the module 480 resulting in a cooling effect.
[0076] FIGS. 5A-5C schematically illustrate an embodiment of an
attic space ventilation system 500 configured to operate in three
different applications. Attic space ventilation system 500 includes
a first set of input vents 501 disposed on a roof 504 of a
structure 502. Attic space ventilation system 500 also includes
output vents 503 disposed on roof 504. Input vents are configured
to provide ingress to an attic space of structure 502 and output
vents are configured to provide egress therefrom. Attic space
ventilation system 500 may also include one or more fans (not
shown) disposed underneath the input vents 501 and configured to
draw air from outside the structure 502 through the input vents 501
and into the underlying attic space. In this configuration, the air
drawn in through input vents 501 may force air within the attic
space through the output vents 503 to the surrounding environment.
As discussed in more detail below, the flow rate of air through the
attic space may be selectively controlled by control circuitry
depending on a desired attic space temperature. Further, input
vents 501 and output vents 503 may be controlled to open, close,
partially open, and/or partially close, to regulate the flow rate
of air therethrough. The attic space may include one or more
sensors, for example, RF sensors, configured to provide a signal to
the control circuitry such that other components of an HVAC system
may be regulated based on the provided signal.
[0077] FIG. 5A illustrates attic space ventilation system 500
configured to operate in a winter day application. In this
application, the system 500 may be controlled to cycle air through
the attic space when the air temperature within the attic space is
greater than about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The attic space
ventilation system 500 may also be controlled to not cycle air
through the attic space when the air temperature within the attic
space is less than about 80 degrees Fahrenheit in order to maintain
a desired temperature within the structure 502. The attic space
ventilation system 500 may be configured to not cycle air through
the attic space by not operating the one or more fans and/or by
closing off the input vents 501 and output vents 503.
[0078] FIG. 5B illustrates attic space ventilation system 500
configured to operate in a summer night application. During a
summer night, an HVAC system may cool the structure 502 by
pressurizing the structure 502 with outside air that is cooler than
air within the structure 502 as discussed above with reference to
FIG. 1. In such a configuration, it is desirable to exhaust air
from a main space of the structure 502 to the attic space and
exhaust air from the attic space through outlet vents 503 to the
surrounding environment. Thus, in one implementation, it may be
desirable to not draw air in through input vents 501 during a
summer night so as to not interfere with a process of cooling
structure 502. However, an overall control system that may include
control circuitry may control the attic space ventilation system
and any other system configured to cool the structure 502 to limit
the overall energy required to cool the structure 502 to a desired
temperature. Thus, in some implementations the attic space
ventilation system 500 may be configured to cycle air through an
attic space during a summer night.
[0079] FIG. 5C illustrates attic space ventilation system 500
configured to operate in a summer day application. During a summer
day, a sensor within the attic space may determine the temperature
of air contained within the attic space. If the temperature of the
air within the attic space is above about 80 degrees Fahrenheit,
the attic space ventilation system 500 may be configured to cool
the attic space by exhausting relatively warm air through outlet
vents 503 while drawing in relatively cooler air from outside the
structure 502 through input vents 501. Conversely, if the
temperature within the attic space is below about 80 degrees
Fahrenheit, the attic space ventilation system 500 may be
controlled by control circuitry to not cycle air through the attic
space.
[0080] As discussed above, some embodiments disclosed herein relate
to multiplatform HVAC control systems for various structures,
including for example, commercial structures. Certain structures,
for example, restaurants (e.g., coffee shops), include abundant
sources of air that includes significant amounts of thermal energy
and/or water. As discussed in more detail below, the thermal energy
may be harnessed to decrease the amount of energy required for HVAC
and/or hot water heating in such structures. Additionally, the
water may be harnessed to decrease the amount of water supplied by
other sources (e.g., public utility companies). In some
embodiments, a multiplatform HVAC control system may be configured
to harness waste heat during winter months to provide heating
capabilities to one or more spaces within a structure. In some
embodiments, a multiplatform HVAC control system may be configured
to harness waste heat during summer months to heat water for
domestic use. In some embodiments, a multiplatform HVAC control
system may be configured to draw water from one or more sources of
waste heat to use the drawn water for various applications.
[0081] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a hydronic system used in
connection with one embodiment of a multiplatform control system. A
hydronic system can comprise a variety of components configured
for, among other things, collection, generation, and distribution
of heat within a structure as well as between the interior volume
of a structure and the structure's surroundings. Components of a
hydronic system can, for example, be further configured for
temperature control and humidity control of air. As depicted in
FIG. 6, one exemplary embodiment of a hydronic system comprises a
heat pump 610. A heat pump 610 can be an air-to-air heat pump, an
air-to-liquid heat pump, or any other configuration of heat pump. A
heat pump can be configured to transfer heat from a heat source to
a heat sink. A heat pump can function by manipulating the pressure
of a working liquid to control the temperature of the working
liquid and to thereby facilitate transfer of heat from a heat
source to a heat sink. A heat pump can comprise a compressor for
increasing the pressure of the working fluid and an expansion valve
for decreasing the pressure of a working fluid. A heat pump can
further comprise an evaporator for absorbing heat from a heat
source and a condenser for transferring heat to a heat sink.
[0082] In some embodiments, a heat pump 610 can be configured to
pump heat from air surrounding the heat pump into another area or
medium. A heat pump 610 can also be configured, for example, to
remove moisture from the air. In some embodiments, a heat pump 610
can have evaporator coils located in thermal contact with air
surrounding the heat pump and condenser coils located in thermal
contact with a cooling liquid. In one embodiment of a heat pump
610, the cooling liquid can be water used for domestic and heating
purposes.
[0083] A hydronic system can further comprise a plurality of tanks.
These tanks can, for example, store water used to cool the
condenser coils of the heat pump 610. In some embodiments, this
water can be sufficiently heated to be used as domestic hot water
or to be used in heating. FIG. 6 depicts a first domestic tank 620,
a second domestic tank 630, and a hydronic tank 640. As depicted in
FIG. 6, a first or second domestic tank 620, 630, or both tanks,
can be connected with the some aspects of a heat pump 610. In one
embodiment, liquid from the first and/or second domestic tank 620,
630 is thermally connected with the condenser coils of the heat
pump 610. The first and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 can
additionally be thermally connected with other components of a heat
pump 610, such as, for example, the compressor, the expansion
valve, or any other component that generates heat. This thermal
connection can be used to simultaneously heat the liquid from the
first and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 and to assist in cooling
the components with which the first and/or second domestic tank
620, 630 are thermally connected. In some embodiments, the first
and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 can be configured with
electric backup heating elements 622, 632. The electric backup
heating elements 622, 632 can maintain the desired water
temperature when the heat pump 610 is not sufficiently heating the
water. As depicted in FIG. 6, the hydronic system can include a
supply of cold water, for example, a 1 and 1/2 inch diameter
pipe.
[0084] In some embodiments, one or more of the tanks can be
configured for use as a heat exchanger, for example, the second
domestic tank 630 can be configured for use as a heat exchanger. In
some aspects of a tank configured for use as a heat exchanger, the
tank can comprise a cold liquid inlet, a dip tube, a cold liquid
outlet, and a warm liquid inlet. In some configurations, a tank can
be configured with a cold liquid outlet. In some embodiments, the
cold liquid outlet can be located towards the bottom of the tank.
The cold liquid outlet can fluidly connect to an air-to-water heat
pump. In some embodiments, the cold liquid outlet can fluidly
connect to an air-to-water heat pump through at least one pump
configured to pressurize the liquid. In some further embodiments in
which a tank is configured for use as a heat exchanger, the heat
pump can additionally fluidly connect with the warm water inlet of
the tank. In some embodiments, this warm water inlet can be located
towards the top of the tank.
[0085] A tank configured for use as a heat exchanger can further
include a cold liquid inlet configured for allowing ingress of cold
liquid into the tank. In some embodiments, the cold liquid inlet
can be located towards the bottom of the tank. In alternative
embodiments, the cold liquid inlet can be located towards the top
of the tank and fluidly connected with the bottom of the tank by a
dip tube. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the
liquid inlets and outlets can be positioned in a variety of
locations in the tank. A person of skill in the art will further
recognize that fluid connection of cold liquid inlets to bottom
regions of the tank and warm liquid inlets to upper regions of the
tank can assist in tank liquid temperature stratification. A person
of skill in the art will further recognize that location of the
cold liquid outlet in bottom regions of the tank can assist in
drawing cool liquid from the tank.
[0086] In tanks configured for use as a heat exchanger, liquid
egresses the tank through the cold liquid outlet. The liquid, in
some embodiments, passes through a heat exchanger, where the liquid
can act as either a heat sink or heat source. Liquid can then, for
example, return to the tank where the liquid can exchange heat with
the surrounding environment.
[0087] Liquid in the first and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 can
be heated to a desired temperature. In some embodiments of a first
and/or second domestic tank 620, 630, liquid can be heated to a
temperature between 50 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit, between 100 and
200 degrees Fahrenheit, or between 140 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
A person skilled in the art will recognize that the temperature of
the water depends on user needs.
[0088] In embodiments in which the heated liquid in the first
and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 is water, the water from the
first and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 can be used for domestic
hot water purposes, including, for example, cooking, drinking, or
cleaning.
[0089] A hydronic tank 640 can also store heated liquid. A hydronic
tank 640 can be thermally connected with a heat pump 610 or with
liquid that is thermally connected with a heat pump 610. In FIG. 6,
a heat exchanger 642 thermally connects liquid from the hydronic
tank 640 with liquid from the first and/or second domestic tank
620, 630. Through this thermal connection, liquid from the first
and/or second domestic tank 620, 630 transfers heat from the heat
pump to the liquid of the hydronic tank 640.
[0090] A hydronic tank 640 can also be thermally connected,
directly and/or indirectly, with one or more hydronic coils. In
some embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured to transfer heat
between the liquid from the hydronic tank 640 and another medium.
As depicted in FIG. 6, hydronic tank 640 is thermally connected
with a first hydronic coil 646, a second hydronic coil 648, a third
hydronic coil 650, a fourth hydronic coil 652, and a fifth hydronic
coil 654. The different hydronic coils 646, 648, 650, 652, 654 can
be configured to transfer heat to different areas. As depicted in
FIG. 6, the first hydronic coil 646 can be configured to transfer
heat to a dining seating area of a restaurant, a fourth hydronic
coil 652 can be configured to transfer heat to air vented from a
heat pump, including heat pump 610, and a fifth hydronic coil 654
can be configured to transfer to a heat pump and/or to the dining
room of a restaurant.
[0091] The different hydronic coils 646, 648, 650, 652, 654 can be
uniquely or integrally thermally connected to a hydronic tank 640.
In some embodiments, the hydronic tank 640 can be fluidly connected
to the different hydronic coils 646, 648, 650, 652, 654. FIG. 6
depicts one embodiment in which the hydronic coils 646, 648, 650,
652, 654 are thermally connected to the hydronic tank 640 by heat
exchanger 642. As depicted in FIG. 6, heat can be transferred from
the liquid in the hydronic tank to liquid circulated through the
hydronic coils 646, 648, 650, 652, 654 through a heat exchanger
642.
[0092] A hydronic tank 640 can additionally be directly or
indirectly thermally connected with heat dump 644. As depicted in
FIG. 6, heat dump 644 can be thermally connected through heat
exchanger 642 with hydronic tank 640. A heat dump 644 can be used
to maintain an upper threshold of liquid temperature in hydronic
tank 640. In some embodiments, a heat dump 644 can comprise a heat
exchanger for transferring heat from a hydronic tank 640 to another
medium. As depicted in FIG. 6, one example of a heat dump can
transfer heat between a hydronic tank 640 and air.
[0093] In addition to the specifically discussed features of a
hydronic system, a hydronic system includes tubing connecting
components of a hydronic system, valves, sensors, wires, electronic
control equipment, as well as a variety of other known components.
A hydronic system may be additionally used in connection with one
or more additional heat pumps. In some embodiments, additional heat
pumps may be configured to provide additional heating or cooling to
air or liquid in connection with the hydronic system. In one
embodiment, a hydronic system may be used in connection with an
air-to-air heat pump located in a dining area and a second
air-to-air heat pump located in proximity to heat pump 610. A
person skilled in the art will recognize that a hydronic system is
not limited to the specific embodiments discussed above, but
includes a variety of components in a variety of combinations.
[0094] FIGS. 7A-7L are block diagrams schematically illustrating
various applications of the hydronic system of FIG. 6. FIG. 7A
schematically illustrates a first example application for the
hydronic system of FIG. 6 for situations when the temperature for
air outside the structure is less than about 35 degrees Fahrenheit
(e.g., during winter month). In this application a thermostat
within the structure may call for the structure interior, or
portions thereof, to maintain a temperature between approximately
70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702a. If this
temperature has been achieved, control circuitry may call for the
system to idle as depicted in block 700a. Control circuitry may
receive this input information and call for information from one or
more sensors as to whether the temperature of air outside the
structure is less than approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit as shown
by block 704a. The control circuitry may then call for information
from one or more sensors as to whether the relative humidity of air
outside the structure is less than about 30% as indicated by block
710a. If either or both of these parameters are not met, the
control circuitry may call for a heat pump to run in order to heat
the structure as indicated by block 706a. For example, if the
outside air temperature is greater than approximately 65 degrees
Fahrenheit and the relative humidity is less than approximately
30%, then an air circulation system opens and uses a supply fan to
circulate external air into the structure as shown in block 706a.
External air can then, in some embodiments, be raised to the
desired temperature range through the use of an air-to-air heat
pump or by hot air solar heating as depicted in block 708a.
[0095] On the other hand, if both of the parameters are met, the
control circuitry may call for aspects of a heat pump, such as an
air-to-air heat pump with a hydronic coil supply to run. If both
parameters are met, control circuitry may call for information from
one or more sensors as to whether the liquid temperature in a hot
liquid tank is greater than approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit as
depicted in block 714a. If the sensors indicate that the
temperature of the tank is greater than approximately 130 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 712a, the control circuitry, in
some embodiments, may call for the fan of an air-to-air heat pump
to run, and for the compressor of the heat pump to be off.
[0096] FIG. 7B schematically illustrates a second example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in a
kitchen in situations when the temperature for air outside the
structure is less than about 35 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., during
winter month). In this application a thermostat within the
structure may call for the structure interior, or portions thereof,
to maintain a set heat of approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit as
shown by block 702b. If this temperature has been achieved, control
circuitry may call for the system to idle as depicted in block
700b. Control circuitry may receive this input information and call
for information from one or more sensors as to whether the
temperature of air outside the structure is less than approximately
65 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 704b. The control circuitry
may then call for information from one or more sensors as to
whether the relative humidity of air outside the structure is less
than about 30% as indicated by block 710b. If either or both of
these parameters are not met, the control circuitry may call for a
heat pump to run in order to heat the structure as indicated by
block 706b. For example, if the outside air temperature is greater
than approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity
is less than approximately 30%, then an air circulation system
opens and uses a supply fan to circulate external air into the
structure as shown in block 706b. External air can then, in some
embodiments, be raised to the desired temperature range through the
use of, for example, hot air solar heating as depicted in block
708b.
[0097] On the other hand, if both of the parameters are met, the
control circuitry may call for aspects of a heat pump, such as an
air-to-air heat pump with a hydronic coil supply to run. If both
parameters are met, control circuitry may call for information from
one or more sensors as to whether the liquid temperature in a hot
liquid tank is greater than approximately 110 to 130 degrees
Fahrenheit as depicted in block 714b. If the sensors indicate that
the temperature of the tank is greater than approximately 110 to
130 degrees Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 712b, the control
circuitry, in some embodiments, may call for the fan of an
air-to-air heat pump to run, and for the compressor of the heat
pump to be off.
[0098] FIG. 7C schematically illustrates a third example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in a
kitchen in situations for cloudy and/or rainy weather (e.g., during
winter month). In this application, heat can be recovered from the
kitchen area by the air-to-water heat pump and distributed as
directed. In this application a thermostat within the structure may
call for the structure interior, or portions thereof, to maintain a
set heat of approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block
702c. If this temperature has been achieved, control circuitry may
call for the system to idle as depicted in block 700c. If on the
other hand, this temperature has not been achieved, the Control
circuitry may receive this input information and call for cooling
by the air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720C.
[0099] Running the air-to-water heat pump extract moisture from the
air, which moisture can be recovered as shown in block 722c. In
some embodiments, control circuitry can manage use or purification
and use of water recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat
pump. As shown in block 724c, water recovered from the
dehumidification function can be purified, and as shown in block
726c, this recovered water can be used in domestic applications,
like, for example, use in toilets.
[0100] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7C, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperature
is below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728c when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank. In addition to determining the temperature
of the domestic hot water tank, control circuitry can call for
information from one or more sensors as to the temperature of at
least one hydronic hot water tank. When the temperature is below a
preset value, heat can be added to the hydronic hot water tank.
Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset value, heat
is not added to the hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block
730c when the sensor indicates that the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank is below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat
is added to the water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely,
when the temperature is above approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit,
heat is not added to the hydronic hot water tank. In addition to
adding heat to at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic
tank, some embodiments can be configured with features to cool
these tanks if the temperatures exceed a threshold. As depicted in
block 744C, excess heat within either the at least one domestic
tank or at least one hydronic can be dissipated with a heat
dump.
[0101] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air as
depicted in block 732c. The amount of reheating of exit air can be
controlled by a thermostat and related control circuitry, and can,
as depicted in block 734c, be maintained at approximately 70
degrees Fahrenheit. The control circuitry can additionally call for
heating of additional spaces of a structure. As depicted in block
736c, control circuitry may call for information from one or more
sensors relating to the temperature of the dining room. As further
indicated in 736c, when temperatures are outside of some range, in
this case between approximately 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, hot
water from a hydronic tank can be supplied to hydronic coils in an
air-to-air heat pump as depicted in block 738c. Control circuitry
can direct the fan of the air-to-air heat pump to run and to
thereby circulate room air around the heated hydronic coils and
heat the room. Similarly, if a temperature within a second
temperature zone is below a set point value, as indicated as
approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit in block 740c, hot water from
the hydronic tank can be supplied to hydronic coils in other
air-to-air heat pump or alternative heat transfer devices.
[0102] FIG. 7D schematically illustrates a fourth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in a
kitchen in situations with outside temperatures above approximately
80 degrees Fahrenheit, relative humidity below approximately 30%,
and clear skies (e.g., during summer transitional month). In this
application, heat can be recovered by the air-to-water heat pump
from the kitchen and solar energy can be collected from outdoors.
In this application a thermostat within the structure may call for
the structure interior, or portions thereof, to maintain a set heat
of approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702d. If
this temperature has been achieved, control circuitry may call for
the system to idle as depicted in block 700d. If on the other hand,
this temperature has not been achieved, the Control circuitry may
receive this input information relating to outside temperature and
conditions, and if the outside temperature and conditions exceed
some predetermined threshold, which as depicted in 704d can be
approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit, call for cooling by the
air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720d.
[0103] Running the air-to-water heat pump extract moisture from the
air, which moisture can be recovered as shown in block 722d. In
some embodiments, control circuitry can manage use or purification
and use of water recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat
pump. As shown in block 724d, water recovered from the
dehumidification function can be purified, and as shown in block
726d, this recovered water can be used in domestic applications,
like, for example, use in toilets.
[0104] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7D, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperature
is below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728d when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank. In some configurations, heat to the
domestic hot water tank can be provided from external solar sources
as depicted in block 750d. In some embodiments, the external solar
sources may provide sufficient energy to attain and maintain
adequate temperatures in the at least one domestic hot water tank
and/or the at least one hydronic water tank. Alternatively, the
air-to-water heat pump can wholly or partially supplement solar
energy in maintaining the liquid temperature in these tanks.
[0105] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730d when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is
not added to the hydronic hot water tank.
[0106] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air as
depicted in block 732d. The amount of reheating of exit air can be
controlled by a thermostat and related control circuitry, and can,
as depicted in block 734d, be maintained at approximately 70
degrees Fahrenheit. The control circuitry can additionally call for
heating of additional spaces of a structure. As depicted in block
736d, control circuitry may call for information from one or more
sensors relating to the temperature of the dining room. As further
indicated in 736d, when temperatures are outside of some range, in
this case between approximately 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, hot
water from a hydronic tank can be supplied to hydronic coils in an
air-to-air heat pump as depicted in block 738d. Control circuitry
can direct the fan of the air-to-air heat pump to run and to
thereby circulate room air around the heated hydronic coils and
heat the room. Similarly, if a temperature within a second
temperature zone is below a set point value, hot water from the
hydronic tank can be supplied to hydronic coils in other air-to-air
heat pump or alternative heat transfer devices. Additionally, if
temperatures are above a predetermined threshold in another area of
the structure, for example, above approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit as depicted in block 740d, control circuitry can call
for cooling and an air-to-air heat pump thermally connected to the
air of that warm area can run as depicted in block 742d.
[0107] FIG. 7E schematically illustrates a fifth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in a
kitchen in situations with outside temperatures above approximately
80 degrees Fahrenheit, relative humidity above approximately 30%,
and clear skies (e.g., during summer transitional month). In this
application, heat can be recovered by the air-to-water heat pump
from the kitchen and solar energy can be collected from outdoors.
In this application a thermostat within the structure may call for
the structure interior, or portions thereof, to maintain a set heat
of approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702e. If
this temperature has been achieved, control circuitry may call for
the system to idle as depicted in block 700e. If on the other hand,
this temperature has not been achieved, the control circuitry may
receive this input information relating to outside temperature and
conditions, and if the outside temperature and conditions exceed
some predetermined threshold, which as depicted in 704e can be
approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit, call for cooling by the
air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720e. Similarly, if this
temperature has been achieved, but the relative humidity within the
building is above 30%, as depicted in block 703e, the control
circuitry can call for dehumidification by the air-to water heat
pump as shown in block 720e.
[0108] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered as shown in block 722e. In
some embodiments, control circuitry can manage use or purification
and use of water recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat
pump. As shown in block 724e, water recovered from the
dehumidification function can be purified, and as shown in block
726e, this recovered water can be used in domestic applications,
like, for example, use in toilets.
[0109] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7E, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperature
is below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728e when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank. In some configurations, heat to the
domestic hot water tank can be provided from external solar sources
as depicted in block 750e. In some embodiments, the external solar
sources may provide sufficient energy to attain and maintain
adequate temperatures in the at least one domestic hot water tank
and/or the at least one hydronic water tank. Alternatively, the
air-to-water heat pump can wholly or partially supplement solar
energy in maintaining the liquid temperature in these tanks.
[0110] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of at least one hydronic hot
water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat can
be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730e when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is
not added to the hydronic hot water tank. In addition to adding
heat to the at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic
tank, some embodiments can be configured with features to cool
these tanks if the temperatures exceed a threshold. As depicted in
block 744e, excess heat within either the at least one domestic
tank or at least one hydronic can be dissipated with a heat
dump.
[0111] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. The
reheating of exit air can be controlled by a thermostat and related
control circuitry, and can, as depicted in block 734e, be
maintained at approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. As depicted in
block 732e, if when temperatures are above a threshold, reheating
is turned off and cooling is turned on.
[0112] The control circuitry can additionally call for heating or
cooling of additional spaces of a structure. As depicted in block
736e, control circuitry may call for information from one or more
sensors relating to the temperature of the dining room. As further
indicated in 736e, when temperatures are above some range, in this
case between approximately 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the
control circuitry can stop flow of hot water to hydronic coils in
an air-to-air heat pump and direct the running of the air-to-air
heat pump to cool the area as depicted in block 738e. Similarly, if
a temperature within a second temperature zone is above a set point
value, for example above approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit as
depicted in block 740e, hot water from the hydronic tank can be
cut-off from hydronic coils of an air-to-air heat pump and control
circuitry can call for cooling and for the running of an air-to-air
heat pump thermally connected to the air of that warm area as
depicted in block 742e.
[0113] FIG. 7F schematically illustrates a sixth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures above approximately 65 degrees
Fahrenheit and with relative humidity below approximately 30%
(e.g., during summer transitional month). In this application, heat
can be recovered by the air-to-water heat pump from the kitchen and
solar energy can be collected. In this application a thermostat
within the structure may call for the structure interior, or
portions thereof, to maintain a set heat of approximately 65 to 70
degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702f. In some configurations,
the control circuitry can additionally receive information relating
to the relative humidity inside the structure. As depicted in block
703f, the information relating to relative humidity can also result
in the control circuitry calling for dehumidification or cooling.
Thus, in some embodiments, for example, cooling begins when the
internal temperature of the structure, or some portions thereof,
exceeds a threshold, or when the internal relative humidity of the
structure, or some portions thereof, exceeds a threshold. If the
desired internal conditions have been achieved, control circuitry
may call for the system to idle as depicted in block 700f. If on
the other hand, the desired internal conditions have not been
achieved, the control circuitry may receive input information
relating to outside temperature and conditions and based on this
information related to outside temperatures, cool through a variety
of means. If the outside temperature is between approximately 65
and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, as depicted in 704f, the control
circuitry can call for cooling. In some embodiments, control
circuitry can manage an air-to-air heat pump in response to
information received relating to inside an outside temperatures and
conditions. In one embodiment, and as depicted in block 752f, the
control circuitry can request the economizer damper on an
air-to-air heat pump to open, for the supply fan to run, for the
damper to solar hot air to close, and for the economizer damper to
outside air to close. The control circuitry can further call for,
as depicted in block 754f, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used
in connection with the air-to-air heat pump to start, the supply
fan to start, the compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop,
and for the opening of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in
the economizer. In other embodiments, the control circuitry can
call for any combination of the above mentioned conditions as well
as combinations of the opposite condition (e.g. opened and
closed).
[0114] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705f, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling by the
air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720f.
[0115] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0116] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7F, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperature
is below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728f when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank.
[0117] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730f when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is
not added to the hydronic hot water tank. In addition to adding
heat to the at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic
tank, some embodiments can be configured with features to cool
these tanks if the temperatures exceed a threshold. As depicted in
block 744f, excess heat within either the at least one domestic
tank or at least one hydronic can be dissipated with a heat
dump.
[0118] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, water is circulated through hydronic
coils for heating, in other embodiments in which heating is not
desired, and as depicted in blocks 756f and 758f, water is not
circulated through hydronic coils and no heating occurs.
[0119] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit as depicted in block
742f, an air-to-air heat pump can locally cool air. On the other
hand, if local temperatures are below some threshold, the control
circuitry can call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted
in block 700f.
[0120] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760f, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds some threshold temperature.
[0121] FIG. 7G schematically illustrates a seventh example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures above approximately 65 degrees
Fahrenheit and with relative humidity below approximately 30%
(e.g., during summer transitional month). In this application, heat
can be recovered by the air-to-water heat pump from the kitchen and
solar energy can be collected. In this application a thermostat
within the structure may call for the structure interior, or
portions thereof, to maintain a set heat of approximately 65 to 70
degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702g. In some embodiments,
this may be a central thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a
specific area within the structure. In some configurations, the
control circuitry can additionally receive information relating to
the relative humidity inside the structure. As depicted in block
703g, the information relating to relative humidity can also result
in the control circuitry calling for dehumidification or cooling.
Thus, in some embodiments, for example, cooling begins when the
internal temperature of the structure, or some portions thereof,
exceeds a threshold, or when the internal relative humidity of the
structure, or some portions thereof, exceeds a threshold. If the
desired internal conditions have been achieved, control circuitry
may call for the system to idle as depicted in block 700g. If on
the other hand, the desired internal conditions have not been
achieved, the control circuitry may receive input information
relating to outside temperature and conditions, and based on this
information related to outside temperatures and conditions, cool
through a variety of means. If the outside temperature is between
approximately 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, as depicted in 704g,
the control circuitry can call for cooling. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage an air-to-air heat pump in response to
information received relating to inside an outside temperatures and
conditions. In one embodiment, and as depicted in block 752g, the
control circuitry can request the economizer damper on an
air-to-air heat pump to open, for the supply fan to run, for the
damper to hot air to close, and for the economizer damper to
outside air to close. The control circuitry can further call for,
as depicted in block 754g, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used
in connection with the air-to-air heat pump to start, the supply
fan to start, the compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop,
and for the opening of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in
the economizer. In other embodiments, the control circuitry can
call for any combination of the above mentioned conditions as well
as combinations of the opposite condition (e.g. opened and
closed).
[0122] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705g, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling by the
air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720g.
[0123] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0124] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7G, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperature
is below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728g when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank.
[0125] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730g when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is
not added to the hydronic hot water tank. In addition to adding
heat to the at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic
tank, some embodiments can be configured with features to cool
these tanks if the temperatures exceed a threshold. As depicted in
block 744g, excess heat within either the at least one domestic
tank or at least one hydronic can be dissipated with a heat
dump.
[0126] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, water is circulated through hydronic
coils for heating, in other embodiments in which heating is not
desired, and as depicted in blocks 756g and 758g, water is not
circulated through hydronic coils and no heating occurs.
[0127] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit as depicted in block
742g, an air-to-air heat pump can locally cool air. On the other
hand, if local temperatures are below some threshold, the control
circuitry can call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted
in block 700g.
[0128] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760g, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds some threshold temperature.
[0129] FIG. 7H schematically illustrates a eighth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures between approximately 65 and
90 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., during summer transitional month). In
this application, heat can be recovered by the air-to-water heat
pump from the kitchen. In this application a thermostat within the
structure may call for the structure interior, or portions thereof,
to maintain a set heat of approximately 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit
as shown by block 702h. In some embodiments, this may be a central
thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a specific area within the
structure. In some configurations, the control circuitry can
additionally receive information relating to the relative humidity
inside the structure. As depicted in block 703h, the information
relating to relative humidity can also result in the control
circuitry calling for dehumidification or cooling. Thus, in some
embodiments, for example, cooling begins when the internal
temperature of the structure, or some portions thereof, exceeds a
threshold, or when the internal relative humidity of the structure,
or some portions thereof, exceeds a threshold. If the desired
internal conditions have been achieved, control circuitry may call
for the system to idle as depicted in block 700h. If on the other
hand, the desired internal conditions have not been achieved, the
control circuitry may receive input information relating to outside
temperature and conditions, and based on this information related
to outside temperatures and conditions, cool through a variety of
means. If the outside temperature is between approximately 65 and
90 degrees Fahrenheit, as depicted in 704h, the control circuitry
can call for cooling. In some embodiments, control circuitry can
manage an air-to-air heat pump in response to information received
relating to inside an outside temperatures and conditions. In one
embodiment, and as depicted in block 752h, the control circuitry
can request the economizer damper on an air-to-air heat pump to
open, for the supply fan to run, and for the damper to solar hot
air to close. The control circuitry can further call for, as
depicted in block 754h, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used in
connection with the air-to-air heat pump to start, the supply fan
to start, the compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop, and
for the opening of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in the
economizer. In other embodiments, the control circuitry can call
for any combination of the above mentioned conditions as well as
combinations of the opposite condition (e.g. opened and
closed).
[0130] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705h, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling by the
air-to-water heat pump as shown in block 720h.
[0131] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0132] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7H, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperatures
are below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728h when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is below approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the water of the domestic
hot water tank.
[0133] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730h when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, and as further
depicted in block 730h, when the temperature is above approximately
130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the hydronic hot water
tank. In addition to adding heat to the at least one domestic tank
or at least one hydronic tank, some embodiments can be configured
with features to cool these tanks if the temperatures exceed a
threshold. As depicted in block 744h, excess heat within the at
least one domestic tank and/or the at least one hydronic can be
dissipated with a heat dump.
[0134] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, water is circulated through hydronic
coils for heating, in other embodiments in which heating is not
desired, and as depicted in blocks 756h and 758h, water is not
circulated through hydronic coils and no heating occurs.
[0135] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit an air-to-air heat
pump can locally cool air. On the other hand, if local temperatures
are below some threshold, for example, approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 742h, the control circuitry can
call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted in block
700h.
[0136] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760h, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds some threshold temperature.
[0137] FIG. 7I schematically illustrates a ninth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures between approximately 50 and
65 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity below approximately 30%
(e.g., during summer transitional month in combination with a
coastal or monsoon climate). In this application, the system can
alternatively heat, cool, and dehumidify the structure as required
to maintain comfortable temperatures and conditions In this
application a thermostat within the structure may call for the
structure interior, or portions thereof, to maintain a set
temperature of approximately 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown
by block 702i. In some embodiments, this may be a central
thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a specific area within the
structure. In some configurations, the control circuitry can
additionally receive information relating to the temperature and
relative humidity at another location inside the structure. As
depicted in block 703i, the information relating to conditions in
this area can also result in the control circuitry calling for
dehumidification, cooling, or heating. Thus, in some embodiments,
for example, heating begins when the internal temperature of the
structure or some portions thereof, drops below a threshold
temperature. If the desired internal conditions have been achieved,
control circuitry may call for the system to idle as depicted in
block 700i. If on the other hand, the desired internal conditions
have not been achieved, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside temperature and conditions, and
based on this information related to outside temperatures and
conditions, cool through a variety of means. If the outside
temperature is between approximately 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit,
as depicted in 704i, the control circuitry can call for heating. In
some embodiments, control circuitry can manage an air-to-air heat
pump in response to information received relating to inside an
outside temperatures and conditions. In one embodiment, and as
depicted in block 752i, the control circuitry can request the
economizer damper on an air-to-air heat pump to open, for the
supply fan to run, and for the damper to solar hot air to open. The
control circuitry can further call for, as depicted in block 754i,
the indirect or direct pre-cooler used in connection with the
air-to-air heat pump to stop, the supply fan to start, the
compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop, and for the closing
of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in the economizer This
combination results in the circulation of warmed air. In other
embodiments, the control circuitry can call for any combination of
the above mentioned conditions as well as combinations of the
opposite condition (e.g. opened and closed).
[0138] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705i, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling and
dehumidification by the air-to-water heat pump as shown in block
720i.
[0139] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0140] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7I, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperatures
are below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728i when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is below approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the water of the domestic
hot water tank.
[0141] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730i when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, and as further
depicted in block 730i, when the temperature is above approximately
130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the hydronic hot water
tank as depicted in block 731i. In addition to adding heat to the
at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic tank, some
embodiments can be configured with features to cool these tanks if
the temperatures exceed a threshold. As depicted in block 744i,
excess heat within either the at least one domestic tank or at
least one hydronic tank can be dissipated with a heat dump.
[0142] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, and as depicted in blocks 756i and
758i, water is circulated through hydronic coils for heating, in
other embodiments in which heating is not desired, water is not
circulated through hydronic coils and no heating occurs.
[0143] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit an air-to-air heat
pump can locally cool air. On the other hand, if local temperatures
are below some threshold, for example, approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 742i, the control circuitry can
call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted in block
700i.
[0144] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760i, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds, for example, approximately 130 degrees
Fahrenheit.
[0145] FIG. 7J schematically illustrates a tenth example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures between approximately 60 and
65 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., during summer transitional month). In
this application, the system can alternatively heat, cool, and
dehumidify the structure as required to maintain comfortable
temperatures and conditions In this application a thermostat within
the structure may call for the structure interior, or portions
thereof, to maintain a set temperature of approximately 70 to 75
degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702j. In some embodiments,
this may be a central thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a
specific area within the structure. In some configurations, the
control circuitry can additionally receive information relating to
the temperature and relative humidity at another location inside
the structure. As depicted in block 703j, the information relating
to conditions in this area can also result in the control circuitry
calling for dehumidification, cooling, or heating. Thus, in some
embodiments, for example, heating begins when the internal
temperature of the structure or some portions thereof, drops below
a threshold temperature. If the desired internal conditions have
been achieved, control circuitry may call for the system to idle as
depicted in block 700j. If on the other hand, the desired internal
conditions have not been achieved, the control circuitry may
receive input information relating to outside temperature and
conditions, and based on this information related to outside
temperatures and conditions, cool through a variety of means. If
the outside temperature is between approximately 65 and 90 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in 704j, the control circuitry can call for
heating. In some embodiments, control circuitry can manage an
air-to-air heat pump in response to information received relating
to inside an outside temperatures and conditions. In one
embodiment, and as depicted in block 752j, the control circuitry
can request the economizer damper on an air-to-air heat pump to
open, for the supply fan to run, and for the damper to solar hot
air to open. The control circuitry can further call for, as
depicted in block 754j, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used in
connection with the air-to-air heat pump to stop, the supply fan to
start, the compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop, and for
the closing of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in the
economizer. This combination results in the circulation of warmed
air. In other embodiments, the control circuitry can call for any
combination of the above mentioned conditions as well as
combinations of the opposite condition (e.g. opened and
closed).
[0146] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705j, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling and
dehumidification by the air-to-water heat pump as shown in block
720j.
[0147] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0148] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7J, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperatures
are below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728j when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is below approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the water of the domestic
hot water tank.
[0149] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730j when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, and as further
depicted in block 730j, when the temperature is above approximately
130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the hydronic hot water
tank. In addition to adding heat to the at least one domestic tank
or at least one hydronic tank, some embodiments can be configured
with features to cool these tanks if the temperatures exceed a
threshold. As depicted in block 744j, excess heat within either the
at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic can be
dissipated with a heat dump.
[0150] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, and as depicted in blocks 756j, water
is circulated through hydronic coils for heating, in other
embodiments in which heating is not desired, and as depicted in
block 758j, water is not circulated through hydronic coils and no
heating occurs.
[0151] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit an air-to-air heat
pump can locally cool air. On the other hand, if local temperatures
are below some threshold, for example, approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 742j, the control circuitry can
call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted in block
700j.
[0152] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760j, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds, for example, approximately 130 degrees
Fahrenheit.
[0153] FIG. 7K schematically illustrates a eleventh example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures above approximately 65 degrees
Fahrenheit (e.g., during summer transitional month with coastal or
monsoon climatic impact). In this application, the system can
alternatively heat, cool, and dehumidify the structure as required
to maintain comfortable temperatures and conditions In this
application a thermostat within the structure may call for the
structure interior, or portions thereof, to maintain a set
temperature of approximately 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit as shown
by block 702k. In some embodiments, this may be a central
thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a specific area within the
structure. In some configurations, the control circuitry can
additionally receive information relating to the temperature and
relative humidity at another location inside the structure. As
depicted in block 703k, the information relating to conditions in
this area can also result in the control circuitry calling for
dehumidification, cooling, or heating. Thus, in some embodiments,
for example, heating begins when the internal temperature of the
structure or some portions thereof, drops below a threshold
temperature. If the desired internal conditions have been achieved,
control circuitry may call for the system to idle as depicted in
block 700k. If on the other hand, the desired internal conditions
have not been achieved, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside temperature and conditions, and
based on this information related to outside temperatures and
conditions, cool through a variety of means. If the outside
temperature is below approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit, as
depicted in 704k, the control circuitry can call for cooling. In
some embodiments, control circuitry can manage an air-to-air heat
pump in response to information received relating to inside an
outside temperatures and conditions. In one embodiment, and as
depicted in block 752k, the control circuitry can request the
economizer damper on an air-to-air heat pump to close, for the
supply fan to run, and for the damper to solar hot air to close.
The control circuitry can further call for, as depicted in block
754k, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used in connection with the
air-to-air heat pump to stop, the supply fan to start, the
compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to stop, and for the closing
of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in the economizer.
This combination results in the circulation of cool air. In other
embodiments, the control circuitry can call for any combination of
the above mentioned conditions.
[0154] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705k, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling and
dehumidification by the air-to-water heat pump as shown in block
720k.
[0155] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0156] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7K, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperatures
are below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728k when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank.
[0157] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730k when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, and as further
depicted in block 730k, when the temperature is above approximately
130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the hydronic hot water
tank. In addition to adding heat to the at least one domestic tank
or at least one hydronic tank, some embodiments can be configured
with features to cool these tanks if the temperatures exceed a
threshold. As depicted in block 744k, excess heat within either the
at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic can be
dissipated with a heat dump.
[0158] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, and as depicted in blocks 756k, water
is circulated through hydronic coils for heating, in other
embodiments in which heating is not desired, and as depicted in
block 758k, water is not circulated through hydronic coils and no
heating occurs.
[0159] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit an air-to-air heat
pump can locally cool air. On the other hand, if local temperatures
are below some threshold, for example, approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 742k, the control circuitry can
call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted in block
700k.
[0160] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760k, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds, for example, approximately 130 degrees
Fahrenheit.
[0161] FIG. 7L schematically illustrates a eleventh example
application for the hydronic system of FIG. 6 for applications in
situations with outside temperatures above approximately 65 degrees
Fahrenheit (e.g., during summer transitional month specifically
configured for maintaining temperature during a high load period).
In this application, the system can alternatively heat, cool, and
dehumidify the structure as required to maintain comfortable
temperatures and conditions In this application a thermostat within
the structure may call for the structure interior, or portions
thereof, to maintain a set temperature of approximately 70 to 75
degrees Fahrenheit as shown by block 702l. In some embodiments,
this may be a central thermostat, or a thermostat unique to a
specific area within the structure. In some configurations, the
control circuitry can additionally receive information relating to
the temperature and relative humidity at another location inside
the structure. As depicted in block 703l, the information relating
to conditions in this area can also result in the control circuitry
calling for dehumidification, cooling, or heating. Thus, in some
embodiments, for example, heating begins when the internal
temperature of the structure or some portions thereof, drops below
a threshold temperature. If the desired internal conditions have
been achieved, control circuitry may call for the system to idle as
depicted in block 700l. If on the other hand, the desired internal
conditions have not been achieved, the control circuitry may
receive input information relating to outside temperature and
conditions, and based on this information related to outside
temperatures and conditions, cool through a variety of means. If
the outside temperature is above approximately 75 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in 704l, the control circuitry can call for
cooling. In some embodiments, control circuitry can manage an
air-to-air heat pump in response to information received relating
to inside an outside temperatures and conditions. In one
embodiment, and as depicted in block 752l, the control circuitry
can request the economizer damper on an air-to-air heat pump to
close, for the supply fan to stop, and for the damper to solar hot
air to close. The control circuitry can further call for, as
depicted in block 754l, the indirect or direct pre-cooler used in
connection with the air-to-air heat pump to stop, the supply fan to
start, the compressor on the air-to-air heat pump to start, and for
the closing of the damper for indirect or direct cooling in the
economizer. This combination results in the circulation of cool
air. In other embodiments, the control circuitry can call for any
combination of the above mentioned conditions as well as
combinations of the opposite condition (e.g. opened and
closed).
[0162] Additionally, the control circuitry may receive input
information relating to outside conditions such as the relative
humidity. As depicted in block 705l, when the relative humidity is
greater than approximately 30%, call for cooling and
dehumidification by the air-to-water heat pump as shown in block
720l.
[0163] Running the air-to-water heat pump extracts moisture from
the air, which moisture can be recovered. In some embodiments,
control circuitry can manage use or purification and use of water
recovered from the air by the air-to-water heat pump. Water
recovered from the dehumidification function can be purified, and
this recovered water can be used in domestic applications, like,
for example, use in toilets.
[0164] In applications in which the air-to-water heat pump is
running, control circuitry can further direct heating of water
within at least one domestic hot water tank and/or at least one
hydronic heat tank. As depicted in FIG. 7L, control circuitry may
call for information from one or more sensors as to the temperature
of the at least one domestic hot water tank. When the temperatures
are below a preset value, heat can be added to the domestic hot
water tank. Conversely, when the temperature is above some preset
value, heat is not added to the domestic hot water tank. As
depicted in block 728l when the sensor indicates that the
temperature of the domestic hot water tank is above approximately
135 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the water of the
domestic hot water tank.
[0165] In addition to determining the temperature of the domestic
hot water tank, control circuitry can call for information from one
or more sensors as to the temperature of the at least one hydronic
hot water tank. When the temperature is below a preset value, heat
can be added to the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, when the
temperature is above some preset value, heat is not added to the
hydronic hot water tank. As depicted in block 730l when the sensor
indicates that the temperature of the domestic hot water tank is
below approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is added to the
water of the hydronic hot water tank. Conversely, and as further
depicted in block 730l, when the temperature is above approximately
130 degrees Fahrenheit, heat is not added to the hydronic hot water
tank. In addition to adding heat to the at least one domestic tank
or at least one hydronic tank, some embodiments can be configured
with features to cool these tanks if the temperatures exceed a
threshold. As depicted in block 744l, excess heat within either the
at least one domestic tank or at least one hydronic can be
dissipated with a heat dump.
[0166] Some embodiments can, for example, include redundant
systems, for example, as depicted in block 762l, in case of a
failure of the air-to-water heat pump, and alarm can sound, and
notification can be sent to monitoring or repair personnel. This
alarm can be triggered by a variety of malfunctions in the air to
water heat pump. An alarm can be similarly signaled in case of a
failure of another component of the system, including, a
temperature reading in one of the hot water tanks exceeding, for
example, approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit. One example of a
redundant system can be heating strips in the water tanks, the
heating strips maintaining a desired water temperature in case of
failure or inadequate output by another system component. A person
skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of other redundant
components can be integrated into the system to increase safety and
reliability.
[0167] Water from the hydronic tank can be used for distributing
heat throughout the structure. In some embodiments, control
circuitry may call for hot water from the hydronic tank to heat a
hydronic coil in thermal communication with air exiting the
air-to-water heat pump and to thereby reheat that exit-air.
Alternatively, if reheating is not desired, hot water from a hot
water tank is not used to heat a hydronic coil in thermal
communication with air exiting the air-to water heat pump. In other
embodiments, hydronic coils can be configured for duct heating.
Control circuitry can call for flow of hot water to heat areas as
desired. In some embodiments, and as depicted in blocks 756l, water
is circulated through hydronic coils for heating, in other
embodiments in which heating is not desired, and as depicted in
block 758l, water is not circulated through hydronic coils and no
heating occurs.
[0168] In some embodiments, control circuitry can call for
information relating to temperatures within specific areas of the
structure. When these temperatures exceed some threshold, for
example, approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit an air-to-air heat
pump can locally cool air. On the other hand, if local temperatures
are below some threshold, for example, approximately 78 degrees
Fahrenheit, as depicted in block 742l, the control circuitry can
call for the air-to-air heat pump to idle as depicted in block
700l.
[0169] Additionally, some embodiments can include solar heating
features. In some configurations, a solar heating feature can
include a sensor to monitor and/or control the temperature of the
solar heating feature. Thus, in some embodiments, when a solar
heating temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the solar
heating feature can be cooled, for example, by running a fan. As
depicted in block 760l, a fan can be used to maintain the
temperature of a solar heating feature, the fan running when the
temperature exceeds, for example, approximately 130 degrees
Fahrenheit.
[0170] FIGS. 7A-7L illustrate example applications of how the
hydronic system of FIG. 6 can harness waste heat to efficiently
heat one or more structures, to efficiently cool one or more
structures, and/or or to provide hot water to one or more
structures. A person having ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the hydronic system of FIG. 6, FIGS. 7A-7L, or
other suitable hydronic systems described herein, in whole or in
part (e.g., components or subcomponents of the systems), may be
utilized to harness waste heat in a variety of applications, for
example, shopping malls, swimming pools, laundromats, restaurants,
canneries, industrial applications including factories, and car
washes. Thus, a hydronic systems and components thereof can be
utilized in conjunction with any process area that may have
available waste heat, whether indoors or outdoors, to harness the
waste heat to efficiently heat one or more structures, to
efficiently cool one or more structures, and/or or to provide hot
water to one or more structures. Waste heat can be provided from a
source of hot air and/or can be transferred from a source of hot
liquid, for example, from a pressure line or pipe containing a hot
liquid. Additionally, in some embodiments, a hydronic system or
component thereof may incorporate water jackets and/or heat
exchangers to transfer the waste heat source to the system.
[0171] FIG. 8A is a block diagram schematically illustrating an
energy production system 840 for use in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system. The energy
production system 840 includes a source of energy for example, a
solar tracker, wind turbine, geothermal system, or hydroelectric
system, that is configured to provide electric power to various
components including a battery pack, a hydronic space heater 815, a
direct current fan 817, a direct current pump 805, and/or a direct
current electric coil 811. The energy production system 840 may at
least partially power a water heating system 820 and/or a HVAC
control system 822. Water heating system 820 may include a source
of domestic water, for example, a fill truck 801 or plumbing
connection that is configured to provide water to a domestic water
tank 803. In some embodiments, a direct current pump 805 may be
disposed between the domestic water tank 803 and a hot water tank
807 to pump water from the domestic water tank 803 to the hot water
tank 807. The hot water tank 807 may be fluidly coupled to a solar
hot water system including one or more solar thermal panels 809 to
heat water contained therein. In some embodiments, a direct current
element 811 may be configured to receive electric power from the
energy production system 840 and transfer thermal energy to water
contained within the hot water tank 807.
[0172] Still referring to FIG. 8A, the HVAC system 822 may include
a hydronic heater 815 configured to receive hot water from the hot
water tank 807 and to transfer thermal energy received from the hot
water to air that passes thereover. The heated air may be used to
heat one or more spaces in a given structure. Additionally, the
HVAC system 822 may include a heat exchanger 813 configured to
receive waste heat from the battery pack and to direct the waste
heat to one or more spaces in a given structure to heat the
structure. The HVAC system 822 may also include an optional air
circulation system 817 including a direct current fan powered at
least in part by the energy production system and/or the battery
pack. The air circulation system 817 may be configured to
pressurize one or more spaces within a given structure with ambient
air to cool the one or more spaces in certain applications. Thus,
the energy production system 840 may be configured to provide
electric power to one or more structures and/or to power HVAC
and/or water heating systems that are coupled to the one or more
structures.
[0173] FIG. 8B is a block diagram schematically illustrating one
embodiment of an energy production system 840 for use in connection
with some embodiments of a multiplatform control system. The energy
production system 840 includes a source of energy for example, a
solar tracker, wind turbine, geothermal system, or hydroelectric
system, that is configured to provide electric power to various
components including a battery pack, a hydronic space heater 815, a
direct current fan 817, a direct current pump 805, and/or a direct
current electric coil 811. The hydronic space heater 815 can, in
some embodiments include a direct current fan 817 for use in a
silent aire night cycle. The energy production system may include a
source of domestic water, for example, a high level filler truck
801 configured to provide water to a domestic water tank 803. In
some embodiments, the domestic tank can be, for example, a 525
gallon domestic tank with a low level float. In some embodiments, a
direct current pump 805 may be disposed between the domestic water
tank 803 and a hot water tank 807 to pump water from the domestic
water tank 803 to the hot water tank 807. The hot water tank 807,
can, for example, comprise a 100 gallon hot water tank, and may be
fluidly coupled to a solar hot water system including one or more
solar thermal panels 809 to heat water contained therein.
[0174] Still referring to FIG. 8B, the system 840 may include a
hydronic heater 815 configured to receive hot water from the hot
water tank 807 and to transfer thermal energy received from the hot
water to air that passes thereover. The heated air may be used to
heat one or more spaces in a given structure. Additionally, the
system 840 may include a heat exchanger 813 configured to receive
waste heat from the battery pack and to direct the waste heat to
one or more spaces in a given structure to heat the structure.
[0175] FIG. 8C is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
climate control system 850 for use in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system. Climate control
system 850 includes a source of energy 851. Source of energy 851
can include various systems or subsystems including, for example, a
solar tracker, wind turbine, geothermal system, hydraulic system,
and/or hydronic system and may be configured to provide electric
power to various components of climate control system 850. A high
voltage charge controller 853 may receive electric power from the
source of energy 851 and may provide the electric power to a direct
current exo current protection module 853 and an inverter 857. The
inverter 857 may provide electric power to a stand-by generator
865, a battery pack 867, a power protection panel 869, and/or to a
power panel 871 for one or more structures. When the source of
energy 851 produces an excess amount of electric power, electric
power may be provided through a shunt 859 to an auxiliary battery
pack 863 and/or to a hot water tank 873. Hot water tank 873 may
receive potable water from a storage tank 875 and the water may be
pumped therefrom by a pump 877. Hot water tank 873 may also be
heated in part by one or more solar panels 861 and water may be
drawn from the hot water tank 873 for various uses, including for
example, use in a lavatory or bathroom 879. Hot water from hot
water tank 873 may also be directed to a heater 881 to provide heat
to one or more structures.
[0176] Thus, the climate control system 850 may be configured to
provide electric power to one or more structures and/or to power
HVAC and/or water heating systems that are coupled to the one or
more structures.
[0177] FIG. 8D is a block diagram schematically illustrating a
climate control system 850 for use in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system. Climate control
system 850 includes a source of energy 851. Source of energy 851
can include various systems or subsystems including, for example, a
solar photovoltaic module including, with a single or dual axis
passive or active tracker with an early wake-up, a wind generator,
a geothermal system, and/or a microhydro system and may be
configured to provide electric power to various components of
climate control system 850. A high voltage charge controller 853
may receive electric power from the source of energy 851 and may
provide the electric power to a direct current exo current
protection module 855 and an inverter 857. The inverter 857 may
provide electric power to a stand-by generator 865, a battery pack
867, comprising, for example, 8 batteries, 16 batteries, or any
desired number of batteries based on the system size, a power
protection panel 869, and/or to a power panel 871 for one or more
structures. As depicted in FIG. 8D, the power panel 871 can power
to a house, to a house subpanel, to a shed, and/or connect to any
electrical equipment. When the source of energy 851 produces an
excess amount of electric power, electric power may be provided
through a shunt 859 to an auxiliary battery pack 863 and/or to a
hot water tank 873. Hot water tank 873 may receive potable water
from a storage tank 875 and the water may be pumped therefrom by a
pump 877. Hot water tank 873 may also be heated in part by one or
more solar panels 861 and water may be drawn from the hot water
tank 873 for various uses, including for example, use in a lavatory
or bathroom 879. Hot water from hot water tank 873 may also be
directed to a heater 881 to provide heat to one or more
structures.
[0178] Referring to FIG. 9, a solar energy system 900 generates
electricity for operating electric systems relating to the
multiplatform control system. As depicted in FIG. 9, the solar
energy system may include, for example, at least one solar panel
902 and a base 904. The solar system 900 may include, for example,
a variety of types of electricity generating panels 902. In
preferred embodiments the solar energy system may include a
plurality of solar panels 902. The solar energy system embodiment
of FIG. 9 includes six solar panels 902. Different embodiments of a
solar energy system 900 can comprise different numbers of solar
panels 902, the number of solar panels configured to match the
desired level of solar electricity generation. A person skilled in
the art will recognize that the amount of solar power generation
capacity required depends on a variety of factors such as component
power consumption and processing rate requirements and that the
present disclosure does not limit a multiplatform control system or
single platform control system to any specific number of solar
panels.
[0179] Referring again to FIG. 9, preferred embodiments of a base
904 can include a mobile tracker base. A mobile tracker base can
increase solar panel efficiency, by up to approximately forty to
fifty percent, by tracking movement of the sun throughout the day
and thus constantly directing the solar panels at the sun. Some
embodiments of a tracker base include active tracker bases,
chronological tracker bases, and passive tracker bases. Preferred
embodiments of a mobile tracker base comprise a passive tracker
base. The base 904 can include a trailer mount to mount the solar
energy system to a movable trailer. In some embodiments, the base
includes one or more concrete ballasts.
[0180] One embodiment of a passive tracker base comprises two
chambers, gas filling the chambers, connections between the
chambers, and reflectors for directing sunlight onto the chambers.
In this embodiment, sun light is differentially reflected onto the
chambers by the reflectors depending on the angle defined between
the base and the sun. As the sun moves, and this relative angle
changes, one of the chambers receives more sunlight, and thus
achieves a higher temperature. This temperature difference between
the chambers drives gas from one chamber to the other, resulting in
a weight differential between the chambers. This weight
differential results in the movement of the tracker base. Some
aspects can include "shadow plates" that differentially shade or
block light from one or more of the chambers. The light that can be
differentially shaded from the chambers by the shadow plates
depending upon the angle defined between the base and the sun.
[0181] Preferred embodiments of passive trackers additionally may
include a controlled heating device position on the chambers. The
heating device control may be configured so that the heating device
creates a temperature differential in the chambers before sun rise,
the temperature differential resulting in the pre-orientation of
the tracker base towards the position of the sunrise. The heater
can receive energy for heating from a variety of sources including
from batteries, from a power grid, or from any other energy source.
In preferred embodiments, the heating device may include a forty
watt silicon heater. In further preferred embodiments, the heating
device control includes an astronomical timer comprising data
regarding the time of sunrise for each day of the year. In
preferred embodiments, the heating device begins heating of one
chamber approximately one-half to one hour before sun rise.
Advantageously, use of a controlled silicon heater can increase
efficiency of solar energy capture by up to ten percent over
comparable passive tracker bases lacking such a controlled
heater.
[0182] The tracker base further may include, for example, a support
structure 906 and a stand structure 908. The support structure may
include a mast 910, and axel, rails, and truss tubes 918. As shown
in FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the support structure 906 includes
a top and bottom, for example, a canister top and bottom 920. The
mast 910, a feature of both the support structure and the stand
structure, connects the support structure to the stand structure.
The axel, rails, and truss tubes 918 together connect the solar
panels 902 to the mast 910. As shown in FIG. 9, the mast 910 of
some embodiments includes a junction box 912. The stand structure
908 of some embodiments includes an outrigger 914; in one
non-limiting example, the outrigger 914 extends 10 feet from the
mast 910. The stand structure 908 of some embodiments includes a
barrel 916; in one non-limiting example, the stand structure 908
includes a 50 gallon sand-filled barrel, which sits on a shoe at
the end of each outrigger 914.
[0183] FIGS. 10A-10C depict various embodiments of utility
structures that can optionally be used in connection with some
embodiments of a multiplatform control system, for example, any of
the embodiments disclosed herein. Additional details relating to
the utility structures are disclosed in U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/382,798 which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0184] Referring to FIGS. 11A-11B, some embodiments of an
electrical system 1000 can be configured with a ground point 1002.
The ground point 1002 may be improved by creating depression 1004
around the ground point 1002, the depression 1004 configured to
catch and store liquid from the drain line 1006. In some
embodiments, the depression can include a liner 1008. The liner
1008 can, in some embodiments, be made of plastic, concrete, metal,
wood, or other material. In some embodiments with a lined
depression 1004, the liner 1008 can include an orifice 1010 through
which a grounding rod 1012 may be passed, the orifice 1010 also
allowing water to pass from the depression 1004 into the ground
around the grounding rod 1012. In further embodiments, the drain
lines 1006 can be configured to provide approximately one gallon
per hour to the depression 1004 to maintain adequate moisture and
conductivity at the ground point 1002.
[0185] Referring to FIGS. 12A-12B, some embodiments of a
multiplatform control system can include a raw water delivery
system 1200. A raw water delivery system 1200 may include, for
example, a tube or pipe that is referred to as a "straw" 1202,
which straw 1202 can be made of a variety of materials including,
for example, metal, plastic, composites, or ceramics and in a
variety of sizes. The diameter can be any suitable diameter that
will be sufficient for the filtration requirements and needs.
[0186] FIGS. 12A-12B depict an embodiment in which the straw 1202
comprises an elongated tube having an inlet end 1204, into which
fluid enters the water delivery device 1200. The straw 1202 further
includes an outlet end 1206. The outlet end 1206 further comprises
an opening through which a water/fluid line 1208 passes which
water/fluid line 1208 carries water to the filtration unit. One or
both of the inlet and outlet ends 1204, 1206 can be covered by a
cap 1210. The straw 1202 further may include openings 1212 allowing
the passage of water from outside the straw 1202 to inside the
straw 1202.
[0187] FIG. 12B depicts a cross section view of the embodiment of a
raw water delivery system 1200. As depicted, bolt 1214 can pass
through the straw 1202 in proximity to the inlet end 1204. In some
embodiments, one or more cables can be affixed to the ends of the
bolt 1214. Advantageously, these cables can enable fixing the
position of the straw in a body of water.
[0188] As also shown in FIG. 12B, a gravel pack 1216 is inserted
into the straw 1202. The gravel pack 1216 can comprise an elongate
tube. The gravel pack 1216 may be sized to slidably fit within the
straw 1202, and to rest on top of the bolt 1214. A submersible pump
1218, sized to fit within the gravel pack 1216, is inserted into
the gravel pack 1216. In some embodiments of a raw water delivery
system 1200, a cable can be affixed to one end of the pump enabling
the removal of the pump from the straw without removing the straw
from the water.
[0189] Additional embodiments of raw water delivery system 1200
further can include one or more bodies extending through the outlet
end of the straw and into the straw. In some embodiments this body
may include a water/fluid line 1208. This body can further include
an electric cable for providing power and control to the water pump
1218. As depicted in FIG. 12, the electric cable is integral with
the water line. In a further embodiment, this body can also
comprise one or more tubes. This can include an air tube 1220
having a perforated end 1222 or a vacuum tube (not shown) extending
to the inlet end of the straw. Advantageously, inclusion of a
perforated air tube 1220 may enable users of the straw 1202 to
clean the gravel pack 1216 and the straw 1202 by blowing compressed
air out of the tube 1220 and through the gravel pack 1216 and
openings. This removes accumulations from the gravel pack 1216 and
straw 1202 and enables more efficient filtration by decreasing the
frequency of necessary filter shutdown for straw 1202 and gravel
pack 1216 cleaning and by decreasing the flow resistance caused by
a dirty gravel pack 1216. The inclusion of a vacuum tube similarly
increases the efficiency of filtration by decreasing the frequency
of straw 1202 cleaning by allowing the user to such particulate
accumulations out of the straw 1202 without removing the straw 1202
from the water.
[0190] Some embodiments of a multiplatform control system can
include a bypass system 1300 as depicted in FIG. 13. A bypass
system 1300 may include, for example, a solenoid valve 1302
connected to the multiplatform control system, a check valve 1304,
and a bypass line 1306 connecting raw water line 1308 to the drain
line 1310
[0191] Some embodiments of a pump bypass system 1300 may
additionally include a solenoid valve 1312 connected to the raw
water line 1308 and the bypass line 1306.
[0192] In some aspects, the multiplatform control system can
initiate a backwash. Once the backwash is to begin, the
multiplatform control system signals the begin of the backwash,
which signal opens the solenoid valve 1302, allowing raw water to
flow from the raw water line 1308 through the bypass line 1306, and
out the drain line 1310. Additionally, the check valve 1304 which
is located downstream of the bypass line 1306 on the raw water line
1308, can prevent further flow of raw water other systems of the
multiplatform control system.
[0193] FIG. 14 depicts one embodiment of a radiator 1400, which can
include channels 1402 for process liquid to pass through and
features to encourage heat transfer with the process fluid. The
channels 1402 can further include inlet and outlet channels (not
shown) to allow fluid to flow into and out of the channels 1402 in
the radiator 1400. In some embodiments, the radiator system can
include fins and a fan 1404. In some preferred embodiments, the fan
1404 can comprise a direct current (DC) fan. The fan 1404 can be
configured to assist in passing air over electronic components of
the multiplatform control system, thus facilitating the transfer of
heat between the components and the air. The fan 1404 can be
further configured to assist in passing air over the radiator
channels 1402, thus facilitating the transfer of heat between the
air and the radiator channels 1402. The fan 1404 can be configured
to enter air into the radiator 1400 through an air inlet 1406, and
after having passed the air over the channels 1402, exit the air
from the radiator 1400 through an air outlet 1408. Advantageously,
inclusion of a radiator 1400 in a multiplatform control system can
assist in maintaining the ideal temperature of the components of
the multiplatform control system, and thus can increase the
efficiency of those components.
[0194] Additionally, some embodiments of a multiplatform control
system can incorporate the capture, manipulation, and
redistribution of heat energy throughout the system and/or can
incorporate cooling heat energy. Surprisingly, this capture and use
of seemingly insignificant amounts of energy has resulted in
significant improvement in system efficiency as well as in
component efficiency. Thus, the system is able to function at fixed
capacity using less energy or to increase capacity while using the
same amount of energy. This efficiency is the result of capturing
energy from sources that have previously not been recognized as
useful energy sources, and transferring this energy to aspects of a
system in which the energy can be beneficially used. Also
surprisingly, the combination of energy from these diverse sources
results in a synergistic improvement in efficiency above what would
be expected based on the individual amounts of energy captured from
each source. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the
synergistic benefit of collecting energy from a plurality of small
energy sources, and applying that energy to another aspect of a
system can be applied in a wide variety of situations and is not
limited to application in connection with a reverse osmosis system
or any subsystem thereof.
Example 1
Commercial, Industrial, Manufacturing, Institutional, Agricultural
Multi-Platform Energy Optimization and Control System
[0195] Some embodiments relate to conditioned enclosures such as
commercial, industrial, manufacturing and agricultural enclosure
structures, which can include, for example, one or more of
interlocking and interacting controls. The controls can be
configured, for example, to optimize space conditioning and energy
usage reduction methods. In some aspects, the controls and methods
can achieve decreased energy usage, for example, net zero, or
lowest, power/energy use with or without power grids or alternative
power sources such as solar photovoltaic, geothermal, micro hydro,
wind, biomass, biogas, hydrogen fuel cell, compressed air, etc.
[0196] The control systems can include, for example, one or more
non-limiting elements or features such as smart board or analog
controls with multiple sensors that initiate alternative methods of
heating, cooling, and ventilating for minimum energy use; attic
ventilation only in cooling and ventilation months; controls that
in some aspects do not allow a compressor to run during night
ventilation/cooling mode; use of low energy usage systems such as
evaporative cooling/night/day ventilation to off set compressor
operation; heat pump that can be used as last resort, not primary
source of heating and cooling; dehumidification/condensate recovery
for grey water or water purification, for Ag or toilets or
purification on site; combined use of passive and active monitored
elements to achieve improved or optimum energy and systems
performance; prevention of simultaneous compressor use to lower
demand cost; utilization of waste heat/cold from, for example,
interior spaces and exterior spaces, garages, laundries, kitchens,
indoor pools, production, animal containment areas, for production
of hot air, hot water, air conditioning, dehumidification and water
recovery; interlocking of self powered and grid powered ac/dc
devices to achieve improved or maximum energy efficiency and
function; adjustable fan speed on supply, exhaust air in response
to temperature drop/rise vs. time-temperature differential system
optimizing energy trimming; monitoring of power use of systems to
assess, diagnose, optimize and maintain systems; monitoring of run
time of systems to assess, diagnose, optimize and maintain; setting
of alarm parameters to notify out of normal optimized performance;
monitoring/recovering, optimize waste heat from multiple sources
and recycle energy into system to optimize system.
[0197] Some aspects relate to new, surprising and unexpected
methods of two or more of: automatically monitoring, controlling,
heating, cooling, and ventilating systems independently of grid
power. The methods can include for example, indoor and outdoor
sensors selected for or configured for the least energy intensive
means to achieve indoor comfort for an inhabited space.
Example 2
Residential Multi Platform Energy Optimization and Control
System
[0198] Also, some embodiments relate to residential enclosures, for
example, habitable enclosures with interlocking and/or interacting
controls for optimizing space conditioning and energy usage. Some
embodiments relate to energy reduction methods to achieve decreased
power usage, for example, net zero, or lowest, power use with or
without alternative power sources such as solar pv, hydrogen fuel
cell, geo thermal, micro hydro, wind, biomass, bio gas, etc.
[0199] The enclosures, systems and related methods can include one
or more of the following elements and features: smart board or
analog controls with multiple sensors that initiate alternative
methods of heating, cooling, and ventilating for minimum energy
usage; Attic venting in cooling and ventilation months, in some
aspects only in cooling and ventilation months; controls that if
desired, can prevent a compressor from running during night
ventilation/cooling mode; use of low energy usage systems such as
evaporative cooling, night/day ventilation to off-set compressor
operation; use of low energy usage systems such as solar hot water
to off-set compressor operation; heat pumps used secondarily, not
primarily, as the source of heating and cooling; water
(dehumidification/condensate) recovery for grey water, for AG or
toilets, or purification on site; combined use of passive and
active monitored elements to achieve optimum results, energy wise;
use of multiple compressors running simultaneously to lower demand;
waste heat used from interior spaces, garages, laundries, kitchens
for production of hot water, air conditioning and water recovery;
interlocking of self powered and grid powered ac/de devices to
achieve maximum energy efficiency and function; fan speed
adjustment on supply air in response to temperature drop vs. time
temperature rise vs. time; system optimizing energy trimming;
monitoring power use of systems to assess, diagnose, optimize and
maintain; monitor recovery of waste heat from multiple sources and
recycle energy into system to optimize system.
[0200] Some aspects relate to new, surprising and unexpected
methods that include two or more of automatically monitoring,
controlling heat, cooling, ventilating systems independently of
grid power. The methods can include indoor and outdoor sensors for
example configured to or select for the least energy intensive
means to achieve indoor comfort for an inhabited space.
[0201] The technology, including any methods, systems, devices and
combinations of components described herein can be operational with
numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system
environments or configurations. Examples of well known computing
systems, environments, and/or configurations that may be suitable
for use with the invention include, but are not limited to,
personal computers, server computers, hand-held or laptop devices,
multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, programmable
consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe
computers, distributed computing environments that include any of
the above systems or devices, and the like.
[0202] As used herein, instructions refer to computer-implemented
steps for processing information in the system. Instructions can be
implemented in software, firmware or hardware and include any type
of programmed step undertaken by components of the system.
[0203] A Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) may be
a corporate computing network, including access to the Internet, to
which computers and computing devices comprising the system are
connected. In one embodiment, the LAN conforms to the Transmission
Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) industry standard.
[0204] As used herein, media refers to images, sounds, video or any
other multimedia type data that is entered into the system.
[0205] A microprocessor may be any conventional general purpose
single- or multi-chip microprocessor such as a Pentium.RTM.
processor, a Pentium.RTM. Pro processor, a 8051 processor, a
MIPS.RTM. processor, a Power PC.RTM. processor, or an Alpha.RTM.
processor. In addition, the microprocessor may be any conventional
special purpose microprocessor such as a digital signal processor
or a graphics processor. The microprocessor typically has
conventional address lines, conventional data lines, and one or
more conventional control lines.
[0206] The system is comprised of various modules as discussed in
detail. As can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art,
each of the modules comprises various sub-routines, procedures,
definitional statements and macros. Each of the modules are
typically separately compiled and linked into a single executable
program. Therefore, the description of each of the modules is used
for convenience to describe the functionality of the preferred
system. Thus, the processes that are undergone by each of the
modules may be arbitrarily redistributed to one of the other
modules, combined together in a single module, or made available
in, for example, a shareable dynamic link library.
[0207] The system may be used in connection with various operating
systems such as Linux.RTM., UNIX.RTM. or Microsoft
Windows.RTM..
[0208] The system may be written in any conventional programming
language such as C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, or Java, and ran under a
conventional operating system. C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, Java, and
FORTRAN are industry standard programming languages for which many
commercial compilers can be used to create executable code. The
system may also be written using interpreted languages such as
Perl, Python or Ruby.
[0209] A web browser comprising a web browser user interface may be
used to display information (such as textual and graphical
information) to a user. The web browser may comprise any type of
visual display capable of displaying information received via a
network. Examples of web browsers include Microsoft's Internet
Explorer browser, Netscape's Navigator browser, Mozilla's Firefox
browser, PalmSource's Web Browser, Apple's Safari, or any other
browsing or other application software capable of communicating
with a network.
[0210] Those of skill will further appreciate that the various
illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may
be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or
combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability
of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks,
modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in
terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is
implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular
application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.
Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in
varying ways for each particular application, but such
implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a
departure from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0211] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and
circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed
herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose
processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array
(FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or
transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination
thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A
general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the
alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor,
controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also
be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a
combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of
microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a
DSP core, or any other such configuration.
[0212] In one or more example embodiments, the functions and
methods described may be implemented in hardware, software, or
firmware executed on a processor, or any combination thereof. If
implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or
transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a
computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both
computer storage media and communication media including any medium
that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to
another. A storage media may be any available media that can be
accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such
computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or
other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic
storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or
store desired program code in the form of instructions or data
structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any
connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For
example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or
other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable,
twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless
technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the
coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless
technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in
the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes
compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc
(DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce
data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with
lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within
the scope of computer-readable media.
[0213] The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the
systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be
appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing
appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods can be practiced
in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the
use of particular terminology when describing certain features or
aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the
terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to
including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects
of the technology with which that terminology is associated.
[0214] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
various modifications and changes may be made without departing
from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and
changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments.
It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts
included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other
embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment can be
included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For
example, any of the various components described herein and/or
depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded
from other embodiments.
[0215] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or
singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate
from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the
plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The
various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth
herein for sake of clarity.
[0216] It will be understood by those within the art that, in
general, terms used herein are generally intended as "open" terms
(e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but
not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having
at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes
but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by
those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced
claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly
recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such
intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the
following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory
phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim
recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be
construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by
the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim
containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments
containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim
includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one"
and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an"
should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or
more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used
to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific
number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited,
those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should
typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g.,
the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers,
typically means at least two recitations, or two or more
recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention
analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in
general such a construction is intended in the sense one having
skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system
having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be
limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B
together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C
together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to
"at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a
construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art
would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least
one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that
have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together,
B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be
further understood by those within the art that virtually any
disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative
terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be
understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the
terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase
"A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or
"B" or "A and B."
[0217] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed
herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those
skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed
herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be
limiting.
* * * * *