U.S. patent application number 14/296300 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-25 for air diffuser and an air circulation system.
The applicant listed for this patent is KAIP PTY LIMITED. Invention is credited to Sean Michael Johl BADENHORST.
Application Number | 20140287674 14/296300 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48573406 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140287674 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BADENHORST; Sean Michael
Johl |
September 25, 2014 |
AIR DIFFUSER AND AN AIR CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Abstract
An air diffuser comprises a plurality of discharge elements (4a
to 4d). The discharge elements are configured such that they are
able to be arranged in the diffuser so as to abut to form a
tessellation of discharge elements in a plane. At least one of the
discharge elements may be displaceable out of the plane for
adjustment of its orientation.
Inventors: |
BADENHORST; Sean Michael Johl;
(Dulwich Hill, AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KAIP PTY LIMITED |
Kingsgrove |
|
AU |
|
|
Family ID: |
48573406 |
Appl. No.: |
14/296300 |
Filed: |
June 4, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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PCT/AU2012/001474 |
Dec 5, 2012 |
|
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14296300 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
454/265 ;
454/322 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 13/26 20130101;
F24F 13/068 20130101; F24F 13/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/265 ;
454/322 |
International
Class: |
F24F 13/10 20060101
F24F013/10; F24F 13/26 20060101 F24F013/26 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 5, 2011 |
AU |
2011905055 |
Claims
1. An air diffuser comprising a plurality of discharge elements,
the discharge elements being configured such that they are able to
be arranged to form a tessellation of discharge elements in a
plane, and wherein at least one of the discharge elements is able
to be adjusted into a new orientation in the tessellation
plane.
2. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 1, wherein a perimeter
shape of at least one discharge element in the tessellation plane
takes the form of a polygon, and wherein the discharge elements are
arranged in the diffuser so as to abut.
3. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 2, wherein a perimeter
shape of at least one discharge element in the tessellation plane
takes the form of a regular polygon.
4. An air diffuser in accordance with claims 3, wherein the at
least one discharge element is able to be independently displaced
out of the tessellation plane, generally along an axis that is
perpendicular to the tessellation plane, and independently rotated
about that axis into the new orientation, before being displaced
back along the axis and engaged back into the tessellation
plane.
5. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 4, wherein, when the at
least one discharge element has a mathematically regular polygon
perimeter shape in the tessellation plane, its number of sides is
equal to the number of unique orientations in which the discharge
element may be engaged into the tessellation of discharge
elements.
6. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 5, wherein at least one
of the discharge elements is configured and is able to be arranged
in the diffuser so as to discharge a primary air stream in a
direction that is generally inclined to an axis that is
perpendicular to the tessellation plane.
7. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 6, wherein changing the
orientation of the at least one primary air stream discharge
element varies the airflow direction of the primary air stream.
8. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 7, wherein the at least
one primary air stream discharge element comprises at least one
discharge canal integrated therein, with the primary air stream
being discharged by the at least one discharge canal.
9. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 8, wherein the at least
one discharge canal is inclined to the perpendicular axis of the
tessellation plane of discharge elements, whereby the primary air
stream is generally discharged in a direction that is similarly
inclined to the axis.
10. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 9, further comprising
a perforated discharge plate, wherein the primary air stream is
discharged through at least one of a plurality of the perforations
in the discharge plate.
11. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 10, wherein in use the
discharge plate is arranged in a plane that is parallel to the
tessellation plane of discharge elements, and an inside face of the
discharge plate closely faces or abuts a discharge face of the
discharge elements.
12. An air diffuser in accordance with claims 11, wherein the
centre points of some of the discharge plate perforations generally
coincide with vertices of a regular tessellation pattern, and
wherein a centre point of at least two discharge canals coincides
with the centre point of at least one discharge plate perforations
for the number of unique orientations.
13. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 1, wherein the
diffuser is configured to discharge at least one secondary air
stream in close proximity to a primary air stream, and wherein the
secondary air stream is of substantially lower momentum than the
primary air stream to which it is in close proximity.
14. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 13, wherein the
secondary air stream is induced by the primary air stream to which
it is in close proximity to form one combined air stream.
15. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 14, wherein the
discharge direction and/or throw of the combined air stream is
largely determined by the discharge direction or throw respectively
of the primary air stream to which the secondary air stream is in
close proximity, and wherein the secondary air stream is discharged
by at least one opening integrated into at least one of the
discharge elements.
16. An air diffuser comprising a plurality of discharge elements,
the discharge elements being configured such that they are able to
be arranged in a plane, wherein at least one discharge element is
able to be displaced from the plane, rotated about an axis that is
generally perpendicular to the plane and, once a given rotational
position has been reached, re-displaced back into the plane and
wherein at least one of the discharge elements is able to be
adjusted into a new orientation in the plane.
17. An air diffuser comprising: a frame; and a plurality of
discharge elements positioned within or adjacent to the frame, each
discharge element abutting against or closely facing at least one
other discharge element, the discharge elements having a plan shape
of a polygon, and wherein at least one of the discharge elements is
able to be adjusted into a new orientation in the frame.
18. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 17, wherein at least
one of the discharge elements is configured to discharge an air
stream in a direction that is inclined with respect to an axis that
extends generally perpendicularly from a downstream face of the
discharge element.
19. An air diffuser in accordance with 18, wherein each discharge
element comprises discharge passages, the discharge passages being
arranged to discharge a high or low velocity air stream through
perforations in a discharge plate.
20. An air diffuser in accordance with claim 19, wherein the at
least one high velocity discharge passage is generally arranged in
the centre of the discharge element and the at least low velocity
discharge passage is generally arranged adjacent to the at least
one high velocity discharge passage but away from the centre of the
discharge element.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] An air diffuser and an air circulation system including the
air diffuser are disclosed.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Many buildings with large volume spaces contain air delivery
systems in which the air is delivered to and mixed into the
occupancy space via one or more side blow diffusers, which may be
located in a sidewall or bulkhead.
[0003] Such systems can deliver supply air through grilles, each of
which delivers the supply air largely as a single jet of air into
the space. Discharge direction adjustability of the jet of air is
via horizontal and/or vertical vanes that may be manually swivelled
about vertical and/or horizontal axes. Hence, the discharge
direction may be manually adjusted in up to two planes--up and
down, and left and right--and horizontal throw may be increased or
decreased by arranging vane direction to converge or diverge,
thereby concentrating or dispersing the discharged airflow pattern,
respectively.
[0004] In order for an isothermal air stream to achieve a given
axial throw at a fixed terminal velocity, the requisite velocity of
the air stream, as it is discharged axially from a grille, is
largely inversely proportional to the volume flow rate of the
discharged air stream. Consequently, in order to achieve a given
throw from a grille, the effective discharge diameter of the grille
needs to be increased largely in proportion to the increase in
volume flow rate to realise the requisite inverse discharge
velocity relationship. This results in an increased grille opening
discharge size (and hence a "thicker" supply air stream) and in
reduced discharge velocity (causing a more "limp" supply air
stream), the larger the airflow rate to be discharged from the
grille.
[0005] These factors can, in turn, reduce the stability of the
discharged air stream (such as by increasing uncontrolled air
stream trajectory deviations in non-isothermal applications, or due
to air motion from other sources in the space). These factors can
also increase temperature and velocity deviations from the average
in the space (such as a tendency towards hot and stuffy, and cold
and draughty spots). In other words, the suitability of side blow
grilles to spaces requiring uniform temperature and velocity
distribution decreases, the greater is the volume flow rate to be
discharged by each grille, especially if draught-free comfort is
required. To overcome this limitation, when each side blow grille
is to discharge a large volume flow rate of air, or when high
levels of comfort are required, high induction side blow diffusers,
such as multi-nozzle diffusers, can be used as an alternative to
grilles. This is because multi-nozzle diffusers induce large
quantities of room air into the supply air stream. This can bring
about rapid discharge velocity decay, thereby allowing relatively
high discharge velocities to be used that stabilise the discharged
air stream, whilst reducing draught-risk through rapid air stream
deceleration.
[0006] Additionally, multi-nozzle diffusers can break down the
temperature differential between supply and room air, thereby
reducing air stream trajectory deviation in non-isothermal
applications to further stabilise the air stream trajectory, whilst
simultaneously minimising temperature deviations in the space. Such
highly inductive discharge, even of large airflow rates, can
produce more stable horizontal throws with low terminal velocities,
whilst rapidly equalising supply air stream temperature with room
air temperature, achieving more uniform temperature and velocity
distribution and less draught risk than would generally be possible
if the same airflow rate were to be discharged from a grille of
similar throw.
[0007] High induction multi-nozzle diffusers can supply air streams
to a space that largely have high mass flow rates (primary air plus
large quantities of induced secondary air) travelling at low
velocities (due to rapid discharge velocity decay brought about by
high induction). These air streams can be suitable both for throws
that are relatively short, as the low velocity air streams prevent
draughts, and relatively long, as the high momentum of the high
mass flow rate air streams ensures relatively high maximum throw.
This is in contrast to air streams from grilles, which have a
relatively narrow allowable throw band for each airflow rate and
diffuser vane setting, thereby further compromising comfort, as
well as increasing HVAC commissioning costs and occupant
complaints.
[0008] The high induction characteristics of multi-nozzle diffusers
can also improve system heating performance, by virtue of strongly
diluting the warm supply air with large quantities of cooler room
air, thereby reducing the degree of buoyant supply air stream
stratification to a high level.
[0009] The discharge direction of prior art multi-nozzle diffusers
may be manually adjustable, such as by swivelling the individual
nozzles in a ball-in-socket arrangement, or by integrating nozzles
with a fixed incline into rotatable discs that are parallel to and
that protrude from or are recessed into the diffuser discharge
face. In prior art multi-nozzle diffusers, the diffuser discharge
face of ball-in-socket and rotatable disc designs is neither flush
nor uniform in discharge pattern. This often leads to such
multi-nozzle diffusers being rejected due to unsightliness.
[0010] Further, as the discharge nozzles are usually made of
plastic, colour choice tends to be limited, especially where small
quantities of diffusers are involved, which is in contrast to the
large range of colours usually available for grilles (e.g. when
made from powder coated metal vanes).
[0011] The vanes of grilles can suffer from dirt deposits, called
"smudging", that settle onto the visible grille surfaces, including
the recessed surfaces of the vanes. Not only is this unsightly, but
these surfaces are also difficult to clean, and cleaning generally
results in the inadvertent re-adjustment of vanes, thereby
compromising airflow to the space, hence causing discomfort and
poor performance.
[0012] Similarly, wiping clean prior art multi-nozzle diffusers can
result in inadvertent discharge direction adjustment due to the
vulnerability of the protruding nozzles or nozzle discs to
accidental re-adjustment.
[0013] Grilles may also suffer from condensation when used in high
humidity environments, such as lobbies in the tropics, or in
restaurants. The high induction of multi-nozzle diffusers can
reduce the condensation risk, by ensuring strong air motion at the
diffuser face, thereby raising the diffuser face temperature, and
also by raising the supply air stream temperature through dilution
with warmer room air.
[0014] A reference to prior art herein is not to be taken as an
admission that the prior art is common general knowledge of a
person of ordinary skill in the art.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0015] Disclosed herein is a high induction air diffuser assembly.
The air diffuser assembly can find use in combination with a
sidewall, bulkhead, window sill, parapet, floor or ceiling air
delivery system.
[0016] The air diffuser comprises a plurality of discharge
elements. The discharge elements are configured such that they are
able to be arranged in the diffuser to form a tessellation of
discharge elements in a plane. The discharge elements are also able
to be adjusted into a new orientation in the tessellation plane.
This configuration enables a number of possible orientations of at
least one of the discharge elements to be achieved, as will become
apparent hereafter.
[0017] The perimeters of the discharge elements may largely abut to
largely form a single plane tessellation of the discharge
elements.
[0018] In an embodiment, at least one discharge element may
discharge a primary air stream largely inclined to the
perpendicular axis of the tessellation plane.
[0019] In an embodiment, the primary air stream may be discharged
by at least one discharge canal integrated into the at least one
discharge element.
[0020] In an embodiment, the at least one discharge canal may be
inclined substantially to an axis that extends perpendicularly of
the tessellation plane of discharge elements. The discharge
direction of the primary air stream may largely be determined by
the discharge canal orientation (e.g. angle of inclination of its
central axis).
[0021] In an embodiment, the perimeter of at least one discharge
element, when viewed in the tessellation plane, may substantially
take the form of a polygon.
[0022] In an embodiment, the polygon may be mathematically regular
(e.g. the sides and angles of the polygon are all equivalent).
[0023] In an embodiment, the perimeters of the discharge elements
may largely form an Archimedean tessellation (e.g. the perimeters
of the discharge elements may largely have disposed thereat a
variety of regular polygons, the arrangements of which can be
identical at every vertex).
[0024] In an embodiment, the perimeters of the discharge elements
may largely form a regular tessellation (e.g. the perimeters of the
discharge elements may largely form congruent regular polygons, in
which "congruent" can indicate that the polygons are all the same
size and shape).
[0025] In an embodiment, the at least one discharge element with
the at least one discharge canal may be engaged into the
tessellation of discharge elements in any one of at least two
unique orientations when rotated about an axis perpendicular to the
tessellation plane.
[0026] In an embodiment, the number of sides, which the discharge
element has, that largely abut other discharge elements can
correspond to (equal) or be a multiple of the number of unique
orientations, about the perpendicular axis.
[0027] In an embodiment, the orientation, about the perpendicular
axis, of at least one of the primary discharge elements may be
manipulable to vary the airflow direction of the primary air
stream.
[0028] In an embodiment, the primary air stream may be discharged
through at least one of a plurality of discharge perforations
located in a discharge plate of the diffuser. The discharge plate
may generally lie in a plane that is parallel to the tessellation
plane of discharge elements.
[0029] In an embodiment, the downstream discharge edge of the at
least one discharge canal largely may abut or closely face the
discharge plate (i.e. at its inside face).
[0030] In an embodiment, the centre points of the discharge
perforations may largely be coincident with the vertices of a
largely Archimedean tessellation (i.e. a tessellation formed
largely of a variety of regular polygons, the arrangements of which
are identical at every vertex).
[0031] In an embodiment, the centre points of the discharge
perforations may largely be coincident with the vertices of a
largely regular tessellation (i.e. a tessellation comprising
largely congruent regular polygons, in which "congruent" means that
the polygons are all the same size and shape).
[0032] In an embodiment, the number of sides that at least one
discharge element has, which largely abut other discharge elements,
may be a multiple of the number of unique orientations, about the
perpendicular axis, in which the centre points of all discharge
canal discharge openings of that discharge element may largely be
coincident with the centre points of discharge perforations.
[0033] In an embodiment, the number of sides, which at least one
discharge element has, which largely abut other discharge elements,
may be equal to the number of unique orientations, about the
perpendicular axis, in which the centre points of all discharge
canal discharge openings of that discharge element are largely
coincident with the centre points of discharge perforations.
[0034] In an embodiment, the centre point of at least one discharge
canal discharge opening may largely be coincident with the centre
point of a discharge perforation (though not necessarily the same
discharge perforation) for at least that number of unique
orientations of the discharge element, about the perpendicular
axis, in which the discharge element may be engaged into the
tessellation of discharge elements.
[0035] In an embodiment, the discharge edge of at least one
discharge canal may either be largely coincident with, or may
largely be contained within the perimeter of one of the discharge
perforations.
[0036] In an embodiment, the diffuser may discharge at least one
secondary air stream in close proximity to a primary air
stream.
[0037] In an embodiment, the secondary air stream may be of
substantially lower momentum than the primary air stream to which
it is in close proximity.
[0038] In an embodiment, the secondary air stream may be induced by
the primary air stream to which it is in close proximity to form
one combined air stream.
[0039] In an embodiment, the discharge direction of the combined
air stream may largely be determined by the discharge direction of
the primary air stream to which the secondary air stream is in
close proximity. In an embodiment, the throw of the combined air
stream may largely be determined by the throw of the primary air
stream to which the secondary air stream is in close proximity. For
example, the discharge direction and throw of the combined air
stream may largely be determined by the discharge direction and
throw of the primary air stream to which the secondary air stream
is in close proximity.
[0040] In an embodiment, the secondary air stream may be discharged
by at least one opening integrated into at least one discharge
element.
[0041] In an embodiment, the secondary air stream may be discharged
by at least one opening between largely abutting discharge
elements.
[0042] In an embodiment, the secondary air stream may be discharged
through at least one of the discharge perforations.
[0043] In an embodiment, an inlet plate may be located upstream of
the tessellation of primary air supply discharge elements.
[0044] In an embodiment, at least one discharge element may be
attached to the inlet plate.
[0045] In an embodiment, the inlet plate may be located clear of
the tessellation of primary discharge elements.
[0046] In an embodiment, the plane of the inlet plate may largely
be parallel to the tessellation plane of the discharge
elements.
[0047] In an embodiment, the inlet plate may largely be
perforated.
[0048] In an embodiment, at least one biasing mechanism may be
provided. This mechanism can communicate with (e.g. bias against) a
given discharge element so as to exert an engaging force directed
towards the inlet plate, pushing that discharge element, when
engaged in the tessellation of discharge elements, towards e.g. the
discharge plate (when present). The biasing mechanism may e.g. take
the form of a coil or leaf spring.
[0049] In an embodiment, a disengaging force that is greater than
the engaging force and that is directed from e.g. the discharge
plate towards the inlet plate can disengage that discharge element
from the tessellation of discharge elements.
[0050] In an embodiment, the disengaging force may be applied to
the discharge element via an adjustment tool inserted through a
discharge perforation.
[0051] In an embodiment, rotation of the adjustment tool about the
axis generally perpendicular to the tessellation plane of discharge
elements (e.g. whilst maintaining a disengaging force against the
discharge element) can rotate the discharge element about the same
axis.
[0052] In an embodiment, the discharge element may be re-engaged
back into the tessellation plane of discharge elements, but now in
a new orientation, when the disengaging force is removed.
[0053] Also disclosed herein is an air diffuser comprising a
plurality of discharge elements. The discharge elements are
configured such that they are able to be arranged in a plane. At
least one discharge element is able to be displaced from the plane,
rotated about an axis that is generally perpendicular to the plane
and, once a given rotational position has been reached,
re-displaced back into the plane. The discharge elements are able
to be adjusted into a new orientation in the plane. This air
diffuser may otherwise be configured as set forth above.
[0054] Also disclosed herein is a ducting system and/or an air
supply system incorporating at least one air diffuser as set forth
above.
[0055] Also disclosed herein is an air diffuser comprising a frame,
and a plurality of discharge elements positioned within or adjacent
to the frame. Each discharge element abuts against or closely faces
at least one other discharge element. The discharge elements have a
plan shape of a polygon. The discharge elements are able to be
adjusted into a new orientation in the frame.
[0056] At least one of the discharge elements may be configured to
discharge an air stream in a direction that is inclined with
respect to an axis that extends generally perpendicularly from a
downstream face of the discharge element. The air diffuser may be
otherwise configured as set forth above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0057] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the
scope of the air diffuser as set forth in the Summary, specific
embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with
reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0058] FIGS. 1-I to 1-III are respective diagrams, each
illustrating front, rear and side section views of diffuser element
embodiments for an air diffuser to provide highly inductive
discharge to an occupancy space;
[0059] FIGS. 2-I to 2-III, as well as sections A-A and B-B, are
diagrams illustrating the front, rear and side section views of a
diffuser embodiment with a perforated discharge surface and
hexagonal discharge elements as well as part-hexagonal discharge
elements;
[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates rear, side section and front views of a
two hexagonal discharge element embodiments, one embodiment with an
upstream locating pin and one embodiment with a downstream locating
ring, and each embodiment with an integrated spring;
[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates diffuser embodiments having discharge
elements with a number of different discharge angles, as well as
diffuser embodiments with differing diffuser face dimensions
achieved by altering the number, combination and arrangement of
hexagonal and part-hexagonal discharge elements;
[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of adjacent hexagonal
discharge element embodiments, each with differing discharge
angles;
[0063] FIGS. 6-I to 6-III illustrate front, rear and side section
views of a diffuser embodiment with a perforated discharge surface
and perforated inlet surface together with an adjustable slide
damper;
[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates front, side and end views of a diffuser
embodiment with a perforated discharge surface and a cut-away to
reveal rows of hexagonal and part-hexagonal discharge elements, and
indicating dimensions of the diffuser that can be varied;
[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a diffuser
embodiment together with an Allan key in a number of positions, to
illustrate how a user can adjust a given discharge element in
use;
[0066] FIGS. 9A and 9B schematically illustrate, each in a
perspective view, the airflow patterns that may be achieved when
different discharge elements have each been arranged in a number of
differing positions, to thereby illustrate airflows into an
occupancy space.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
General Diffuser Overview
[0067] High induction sidewall diffusers are used to better mix a
supply of air into a given space (e.g. a room). High induction
diffusers can break up the supply air stream into a multitude of
highly inductive air streams, each one of which strongly mixes and
dilutes the supply air with large quantities of room air. This can
cause rapid temperature equalisation of each supply air stream with
that of the room air, along with intense discharge velocity decay.
The resultant low velocity air motion in the space can provide
largely draught-free and generally uniform temperature
distribution, as each supply air stream is not only of almost equal
temperature to the room air, but is also largely equal in density,
preventing air "dumping".
[0068] Issues with air "under-throw" and "over-throw" may also be
more easily overcome, as the air streams are low in velocity and
are largely at room air temperature, preventing draughts if nearby
obstructions deflect them into the occupancy space, whilst their
high mass flow rate, due to the large quantities of entrained room
air, provides them with sufficient momentum, despite their low
velocity, to travel over long distances. Hence, stable,
draught-free operation with uniform temperature distribution and a
high level of comfort can be achieved, regardless of changes in air
supply fan speed or fluctuations in supply air temperature, even
when used to deliver air from a low temperature supply air system.
However, high induction sidewall diffusers of the prior art are
expensive, tend to be aesthetically unappealing and, at the same
operating pressure, discharge substantially less air than their low
induction counterparts of a similar face size. These shortcomings
have largely curtailed their widespread use.
[0069] The present disclosure relates generally to an air diffuser
assembly for placement in a wall, bulkhead, duct or window sill
penetration. The assembly comprises an optional rectangular
mounting frame to be secured in the penetration. The mounting frame
may be thermally decoupled from other diffuser components. A
perforated discharge plate forms the visible face of the diffuser.
This plate may comprise a powder-coated metal for aesthetic and
structural benefits.
[0070] Upstream of the discharge plate, regular and/or irregular
polygonal discharge elements can be employed, which can be arranged
in a tessellated pattern and in a planar configuration. For
example, generally hexagonal or generally square discharge elements
can be employed.
[0071] The discharge elements can be arranged in the diffuser to
abut or closely face the discharge plate, and can abut one another
in various tessellated patterns, such as regular tessellated
patterns, semi-regular or Archimedean tessellated patterns, etc.
When, in plan-shape, hexagonal or square discharge elements are
employed, a 60.degree. staggered or square array, respectively, can
be formed. Part-hexagonal or part-square discharge elements,
respectively, can be located along the diffuser perimeter to
provide rectangular bounding (perimeter) edges to the array, as
well to enable separation of the array from the bounding edges of
the discharge plate.
[0072] Each discharge element comprises one or, more generally, a
plurality of discharge openings. In one example these can take the
form of individual canals which can generally be arranged in e.g. a
honeycomb, square, circular, etc pattern. The element discharge
openings can align with perforations formed in the discharge plate
such that, when the discharge element array abuts or closely faces
the upstream face of the discharge plate, air directed by the
discharge openings passes in that direction straight through the
perforations (i.e. its direction is not altered by the
perforations/discharge plate). When an axis of each discharge
opening is inclined to a perpendicular axis extending from the
discharge plate, jets of air can be discharged generally in the
direction of incline. The discharge opening angle of inclination
can also be selected to differ between sets of the discharge
elements.
[0073] Discharge element sets with a largest angle of inclination
(relative to the perpendicular axis of the discharge plate) may in
general be located closest to the diffuser outer edges that are
furthest apart whilst those with the smallest angle of inclination
(relative to the perpendicular axis of the discharge plate) may in
general be located closest to the centre of the diffuser. This can
help with air flow mixing and induction in the space to be supplied
with air.
[0074] Some of the discharge element can have larger (i.e. bore
with larger effective diameter) discharge openings, for discharging
a "primary" air stream (or an "inducing" air stream). Discharge
openings that are substantially smaller (i.e. bore with smaller
effective diameter) can discharge a "secondary" air stream (or a
"to-be-induced" or "inducted" air stream).
[0075] In a given discharge element, the smaller discharge openings
may be less densely spaced than the larger discharge openings. The
smaller discharge openings may or may not be inclined, and may be
inclined differently to the larger discharge openings. The smaller
discharge openings may also be formed by notches in the perimeter
edges of discharge elements, which can form an opening when
discharge elements abut. The smaller discharge openings may also be
located "clear" of the upstream face of the perforated discharge
plate, to thereby discharge air into a chamber bounded by the
discharge element array, the perforated discharge plate and the
diffuser rectangular edge or frame.
[0076] Springs can be integrated into the discharge elements which
can be compressed and thus push against a perforated inlet plate.
This can "lock" the discharge elements into the array, and urge the
discharge element perimeters to abut one another in the array. The
discharge elements may additionally be guided (e.g. by pins, rings,
notches) into respective openings in the discharge plate, to
thereby accurately align the discharge openings of each discharge
element with perforations in the discharge plate. For example, some
discharge elements may be provided with a locating ring formed by
protrusions projecting downstream of its edges, the diameter of
which is largely equal to the distance between e.g. parallel outer
edges of a given regular discharge element. Some discharge elements
may be provided with a locating pin formed by a protrusion
projecting upstream and generally centrally from the element.
[0077] A screwdriver slot, Hex socket or similar can be formed and
located generally centrally in a given discharge element. This
slot, socket, etc can align with a discharge face perforation such
that a screwdriver head, Hex key or similar tool may be inserted by
a user located in the space to be supplied with air. The discharge
element can be displaced inwardly of the diffuser (i.e. out of its
array, and out of its abutment with adjacent discharge element(s))
and, once so displaced, can be rotated via the screwdriver, Hex key
or similar tool. When being displaced, the discharge element can
push (compress) against the force of a spring, which otherwise
urges it into locking configuration in the array. After the
discharge element is rotated (e.g. about a central axis that
extends perpendicularly to the discharge face) to a desired new
rotational orientation, it is re-engaged into the array, by
releasing the force on the screwdriver head, Hex key or similar
tool. It may then re-displace (e.g. under the action of the spring)
into one of a number of orientations (e.g. one of six in the case
of hexagonal discharge elements, or one of four in the case of
square discharge elements, etc). When so re-displaced, the
perimeters of the discharge element re-abut and lock with its
adjacent discharge elements, to now provide new and unique air
discharge directions from its e.g. inclined discharge openings. The
locating pin or ring can also function to retain the discharge
element in its array, and can support the element once disengaged,
as it is being rotated.
[0078] When given discharge elements in the tessellated array have
a mathematically regular polygon plan shape, the number of new
orientations to which the element can be rotated can corresponds to
or is a fraction of its number of sides.
[0079] Further, one or more given discharge elements can be
configured such that the centre points of all discharge canal
discharge openings of that discharge element may largely coincide
with the centre points of discharge perforations (though not
necessarily the same discharge perforation), regardless of the
orientation to which the element has been rotated. Further, the
discharge edge of at least one discharge canal may either coincide
with or be contained within the perimeter of a given one of the
discharge perforations.
[0080] A perforated slide damper may also be located against the
perforated inlet plate. Both the perforated slide damper and the
perforated inlet plate may largely be provided with the same
perforation pattern and size, with openings of the former able to
align with those of the perforated inlet plate when, for example,
the perforated slide damper is set to open. Sliding the perforated
inlet damper such that its holes are out of alignment with those of
the perforated inlet plate can then close the perforated slide
damper. The perforated slide damper may include cut-outs that may
be of similar size and shape to the discharge elements and that may
be aligned with some of the discharge elements. This can prevent
airflow to these select discharge elements from, for example, being
throttled when the slide damper is closed, so as to provide high
momentum, highly inductive and stable supply air discharge from
these select discharge elements, even when the slide damper is
closed. This can also maintain highly inductive supply air
discharge into the space at low airflow rate settings. It can also
induce supply air, e.g. that leaks through a remainder of the slide
damper and that is then discharged at low momentum from the
diffuser, to be mixed into the stable, high momentum supply air
streams discharged by selected discharge elements. The perforated
slide damper may be accessible for adjustment through openings in
the discharge elements and via aligned openings in the perforated
discharge plate.
Embodiments as Shown in the Figures
[0081] Reference numerals in the following description and
throughout the Figures represent similar or like components or
features.
[0082] FIG. 1 shows three embodiments (FIGS. 1-I, 1-II and 1-III)
of a sidewall diffuser in accordance with the teachings herein. The
sidewall diffuser is mounted in a wall, duct or bulkhead
penetration (1), or similar, and discharges supply air from a duct
or pressure plenum (2) into an occupancy space (3).
[0083] The sidewall diffuser comprises a discharge element (4)
having a plate-like form and configured for discharging both
primary and secondary air streams. The discharge element (4) has at
least one and, in this case, a plurality of discharge canals in the
form of inclined discharge openings (5) formed therein. The
openings (5) are angled relative to an axis that extends
perpendicularly from a discharge plate (8). The discharge plate (8)
is arranged to abut or closely face the discharge side of the
discharge element (4).
[0084] The inclined discharge openings (5) are configured to
discharge air at a high velocity to create high momentum air jets
(6a)--i.e. primary air streams. The high momentum air jets (6a)
pass through perforations (7) in the discharge plate (8).
[0085] Air also passes from the duct or pressure plenum (2) through
smaller openings (9) formed in the discharge element (4) and into a
discharge chamber (10) of the discharge element (4)--i.e. secondary
air streams. From discharge chamber (10) the air is discharged at a
low velocity and hence as a low momentum airflow (6b) through
perforations (11) the discharge plate (8), and thence into the
occupancy space (3).
[0086] The high momentum air jets (6a) are configured so as to
induce room air (12) as well as to induce the low momentum airflow
(6b) discharged through perforations (11) from discharge plenum
(10). This induction creates air streams of mixed air that travel
away from the diffuser in the general direction of the discharge
jets (6a). In the sidewall diffuser embodiments of FIGS. 1-I and
1-III, the high velocity air jets (6a) can have an equal angle of
discharge relative to one another, whereas in the sidewall diffuser
embodiment of FIG. 1-II the high velocity air jets (6a) can have
unequal angles of discharge relative to one another. Further, in
the sidewall diffuser embodiments of FIGS. 1-I and 1-II, the high
velocity air jets (6a) can be well spaced from one another, whereas
in the sidewall diffuser embodiment of FIG. 1-III the high velocity
air jets (6a) are "bundled" together.
[0087] FIG. 2 shows another embodiment (i.e. in FIGS. 2-I, 2-II,
and 2-III, and in sections A-A and B-B) of a sidewall diffuser in
accordance with the teachings herein. The sections A-A and B-B in
FIG. 2 indicate the tessellation plane (i.e. as viewed end-on) in
which the discharge elements lie.
[0088] FIG. 2-I shows the diffuser discharge face (i.e. with a
discharge plate (8) arranged thereat), FIG. 2-II shows the diffuser
discharge chamber inlet face, illustrating one example of a
tessellation of a number of diffuser elements (such as (4a) to
(4d)). FIG. 2-III shows various front and side sections of the
diffuser, including those taken on the lines A-A and B-B, as well
as illustrating adjustment of a given primary air diffuser element
(4a).
[0089] Again, air passes from the duct or pressure plenum (2), but
in this embodiment via a perforated inlet plate (13) and into a
pressure plenum (14) defined thereby. From pressure plenum (14) the
air passes to the discharge elements (such as (4a) to (4d)). At
least one of the discharge elements (e.g. 4b to 4d) can be attached
to the inlet plate (13). However, usually the inlet plate (13) is
located so as to be clear of the tessellation of primary air
discharge elements (4a), so as not to interfere with their
movement/adjustment.
[0090] Each discharge element has a generally plate-like profile.
Further, each primary air discharge element (4a) has at least one
and, in this case, a plurality of discharge canals in the form of a
plurality of inclined discharge openings (5) located therein. In
this embodiment, each primary air discharge element has a generally
hexagonal form. The inclined discharge openings (5) discharge air
at high speed, as high momentum air jets (6a), and thence through
the perforations (7) in the discharge plate (8)--i.e. primary air
streams.
[0091] Air also passes from pressure plenum (14) through inlet
openings (9) formed in the hexagonal (4a) and part-hexagonal
discharge elements (4b, 4c and 4d) and into distribution chamber
(10) to be discharged at low momentum into the occupancy space (3)
via discharge plate perforations (11)--i.e. secondary air
streams.
[0092] An optional mounting frame (8a) may be attached to the
discharge plate (8) which may be folded to form the bounding edges
of discharge chamber (10) so as to abut the generally hexagonal
(4a) and part-hexagonal (4b, 4c and 4d) discharge elements as shown
in FIG. 2-II, A-A and B-B. The mounting frame (8a) may, as shown in
FIG. 2-III, also be folded so as to define at least some of the
part-hexagonal discharge elements (4b, 4c and 4d).
[0093] Insulating material (not shown for the sake of clarity) may
additionally be sandwiched between mounting frame (8a) and
discharge plate (8) to thermally decouple them from one another,
thereby reducing the threat of condensation on the mounting
frame.
[0094] A biasing mechanism in the form of a locking spring (15) may
be provided for each of the primary air discharge elements (4a).
The locking spring (15) may comprise a coil spring, or may comprise
a leaf spring (e.g. that may be integrated with the discharge
element, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3). Each locking spring
(15) is located between so as to push against both the perforated
inlet plate (13) and the upstream face of its respective discharge
element (4a). This urges and locks that discharge element (4a) into
place in tessellated plane, in a sixty degree staggered array, of
the hexagonal discharge elements (4a), whereby at least two of its
hexagonal edges each abut an adjacent respective edge of an
adjacent respective hexagonal discharge element (4a). In addition,
others of its edges abut one or more of the part-hexagonal
discharge elements (4b, 4c and 4d). Similar locking springs (not
shown for the sake of clarity) may also be employed to lock the
part-hexagonal discharge elements (4b, 4c and 4d) into place.
[0095] In accordance with the teachings herein, a force may be
applied against the discharge element to further compress the
locking spring (15). This force may be applied via a Hex key,
screwdriver or similar tool (16) respectively inserted into a Hex
socket, screwdriver slot or similar interface (for example,
interface (16a) as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, although not shown in
FIG. 2 for the sake of clarity). The tool may be first inserted
through an aligned perforation in the discharge plate (8).
[0096] The interface may be generally centrally located in the
discharge element (4a) whereby, when it is engaged by the suitable
tool, unlocks that discharge element (4a) from the tessellated
plane (i.e. unlocks it from its sixty degree stagger pattern),
whereby the discharge element (4a) is moved towards the perforated
inlet plate (13). Having been released from engagement with
adjacent discharge elements (i.e. displaced out of the tessellated
plane formation), the hexagonal discharge element (4a) is now freed
to be rotated by twisting (17) the Hex key, screwdriver or similar
tool (16) into any one of five additional possible orientations.
Having selected a given one of those orientations, the Hex key,
screwdriver or similar tool (16) can be progressively withdrawn,
whereby the retained bias in the compressed locking spring (15)
will urge the discharge element (4a) to be displaced back into the
tessellated plane, whereby the discharge element relocks with
adjacent respective edges of adjacent discharge elements (4a).
[0097] FIG. 2-I shows an array of primary air discharge elements
(4a) having been positioned whereby those discharge elements (4a)
located adjacent to a respective corner have been orientated so
that the primary airstream discharges towards that respective
corner. Three of the four centrally located discharge elements (4a)
have been orientated so that the primary airstream discharges
upwardly, whereas the lowermost one of the four centrally located
discharge elements discharges downwardly. Of course a whole range
of other combinations and permutations are possible.
[0098] FIG. 3 shows two embodiments of a hexagonal discharge
element (4a) in which the locking spring (15) is integrated into
the discharge element. Additionally, the left-side discharge
element embodiment includes a locating pin (18), whereas the
right-side discharge element embodiment includes a locating ring
(19). Each of the locating pin (18) and locating ring (19) helps to
fix its respective discharge element (4a) into the sixty degree
staggered array of discharge elements (4a), and may even "tether"
it to the array when the discharge elements (4a) has been
unlocked/displaced from the array and whilst it is being rotated by
twisting (17) the tool (16). Each of the locating pin (18) and
locating ring (19) can also help guide its respective element back
into the array. A discharge element embodiment may be provided that
incorporates both a locating pin (18) and a locating ring (19).
[0099] FIG. 4 shows examples of different tessellation
configurations, and resulting diffuser rectangular face dimensions
that can be realised by varying the combination and location of the
discharge elements (4a) and part-hexagonal discharge elements (4b,
4c and 4d). Also shown are three different sets (A, B and C) of
largely hexagonal discharge elements (4a), where each set has a
different angle of inclination (.alpha., .beta. and O,
respectively) of its inclined discharge openings (5)
(.alpha.<.beta.<O). This of course changes the direction of
the high momentum air jet (6a) relative to an axis that is
perpendicular to the discharge plate (8).
[0100] Discharge elements (4a) with smaller angles of inclination
are typically arranged and located closer towards a diffuser
centreline than those with larger angles of inclination. This
serves to reduce the likelihood of groups of high momentum air jets
(6a) from "bundling" or colliding together, whereby instead
induction of room air (12) and low momentum airflow (6b) into the
individual high momentum air jets (6a) is maximised. While three
different sets of angle of inclination (.alpha., .beta. and O) have
been shown, many other angles of inclination are possible.
[0101] Referring now to FIG. 5, a front view of two further
configurations (I and II) of the discharge element (4a) are shown.
Each of these embodiments is configured to reduce bundling of high
momentum air jets (6a), so as to maximise induction of both room
air (12) and low momentum airflow (6b) into the individual high
momentum air jets (6a).
[0102] In this regard, FIG. 5-I shows inclined discharge openings
(5) directed towards the hexagonal edge located at the 3 o'clock
position, relative to the central axis of the discharge element
(4a). FIG. 5-II shows inclined discharge openings (5) directed
towards the hexagonal corner at the two o'clock position, relative
to the central axis of the discharge element (4a). The two angles
of inclination differ by 30.degree. (or may differ by up to
30.degree. in further embodiments). It has been observed that the
combining of the discharge elements (4a) as shown in FIG. 5-I with
those as shown in FIG. 5-II into the same diffuser further
minimises the risk of high momentum air jets (6a) from
bundling/colliding together.
[0103] In further diffuser embodiments that include generally
hexagonal discharge elements (4a), the side-view angles of
inclination (as shown in FIG. 4) may differ from one set of
discharge elements (4a) to another. In addition, the front-view
angles of inclination (as shown in FIG. 5) may differ between
sets.
[0104] FIG. 6 shows front (FIG. 6-I), rear (FIGS. 6-II and 6-III)
and side section views (FIGS. 6-IV, 6-V and 6-VI) of a further
embodiment of a diffuser. In this embodiment an adjustable slide
damper plate (20) may be slid relative to the perforated inlet
plate (13) to increase diffuser airflow, by maximising the relative
open area of the two plates as shown in FIGS. 6-II, 6-IV and 6-V
(i.e. "Open"). Alternatively, the slide damper plate (20) may be
slid relative to the perforated inlet plate (13) to reduce diffuser
airflow, by minimising the relative open area of the two plates as
shown in FIG. 6-III and FIG. 6-VI (i.e. "Closed").
[0105] The access to the adjustable slide damper (20) can be from
the front of the diffuser, such as via perforations (7) in the face
of discharge plate (8). Adjustable slide damper plate (20) may also
include one or more pilot openings (21) that prevent slide damper
plate (20) from restricting airflow to one or more of the hexagonal
discharge elements (4a), which therefore remain active even when
adjustable slide damper plate (20) is closed. This allows the
discharge elements (4a) that remain active to continue to discharge
high momentum air jets (6a), thereby providing stable diffuser
operation and discharge direction control, such as by continuing to
induce room air (12) and low momentum airflow (6b) (e.g. that
escapes or leaks through slide damper plate (20), even when damper
(20) is closed).
[0106] Referring now to FIG. 7, an air diffuser is illustrated to
show which dimensions of the diffuser may typically be varied,
depending on the given application. For example, each of the
following dimensions may be varied:
[0107] L.sub.N--the overall length of the diffuser (discharge plate
(8));
[0108] L.sub.K--the length of the diffuser perforated area
(discharge perforations (7), length of the perforated inlet plate
(13));
[0109] H.sub.N--the overall height of the diffuser (discharge plate
(8));
[0110] H.sub.K--the height of the diffuser perforated area
(discharge perforations (7), length of the perforated inlet plate
(13));
[0111] T--the thickness of the diffuser, but which may also be
fixed for any given length/height combination.
[0112] As can also be seen in FIG. 7, the centre points of some the
discharge plate perforations (7) generally coincide with vertices
of discharge elements (4a and 4b) arranged in the tessellation
pattern as shown.
[0113] Referring now to FIG. 8, a given discharge element (e.g. a
primary air element (4a)) may be rotated for air discharge
direction adjustment. In this case a suitable tool such as an Allen
key A (or screwdriver, etc) is inserted through one of the
perforations (7) in the face of the discharge plate (8). The Allen
key A first pushes the element towards the rear of the diffuser so
as to unlock it from a tessellated plane of discharge elements
(e.g. by further compressing spring (15)). The Allen key A is then
used to rotate the element to one of a number of possible
orientations (e.g. five additional orientations in the case of a
hexagonal element). The Allen key A is then released to allow the
element to be moved (e.g. by the extension of spring (15)) and lock
back into the tessellated plane.
[0114] The Allen key A may be configured such that it may only be
inserted in one direction to engage the given discharge element.
This can be such that the Allen key lateral shaft L points in the
direction of discharge of the particular element being moved. Thus,
the shaft L provides visual feedback to a user of the current
discharge direction and final discharge direction after
adjustment.
[0115] As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, when different discharge
elements in a diffuser have each been arranged in a number of
differing positions, the airflow patterns P that may flow into an
occupancy space S can be varied and altered. FIGS. 9A and 9B show
one such configuration and, of course, many other airflow patterns
are possible by altering different ones of the discharge
elements.
[0116] Whilst regular tessellated discharge element patterns have
been shown and described, it should be understood that other
tessellated patterns are possible, such as Archimedean. In this
regard, the part-hexagonal discharge elements may, for example,
readily be replaced by triangular-shaped and/or diamond-shaped
elements, etc.
[0117] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the air
diffuser as shown in the specific embodiments without departing
from the spirit or scope of the air diffuser as broadly described.
The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all
respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
Advantageous Features of the Embodiments as Described Herein
[0118] The tessellated pattern of the discharge elements in the
diffuser as described herein allows for easy locking in of elements
in the plane, and ease of displacement, rotation, and realignment
of a given element back into the plane. The tessellated pattern of
the discharge elements can be in a plane having a regular or
Archimedean pattern, etc.
[0119] Primary and/or secondary air jets, etc can be integrated
into the discharge elements.
[0120] The elements may take the form of e.g. polygonal disc-like
elements, such as a regular polygon (e.g. hexagonal, square, etc)
and an irregular polygon (e.g. part-hexagonal, half-square,
etc).
[0121] The discharge elements may be moulded of plastic, whereby
the air jets can be more readily integrated into the elements.
[0122] The discharge elements can be located behind a powder-coated
metal perforated discharge face, such as can improve aesthetics,
structural integrity, etc.
[0123] Each discharge element may be rotated (for air discharge
direction adjustment) by inserting a suitable tool (e.g. Allen key,
screwdriver, etc) through the perforated discharge face, to first
push the element towards the rear of the diffuser so as to unlock
it from the tessellated plane of discharge elements, and to then
rotate it to a number of orientations (e.g. five additional
orientations in the case of a hexagonal element; three additional
orientations in the case of a square element, etc), before
releasing it to lock back into the tessellated plane.
[0124] When e.g. an Allen key is employed, it may only be inserted
such that its shaft points in the direction of discharge of the
particular element being moved, providing visual feedback of
discharge direction during and after adjustment.
[0125] An air delivery system incorporating the diffuser as
described herein can provide the potential for substantial energy
savings and enhanced indoor air quality, as well as for improved
thermal comfort.
[0126] The highly inductive discharge pattern of the diffuser can
provide greater uniformity of temperature distribution in the
occupied space than prior art standard grilles, thereby saving
energy through improved temperature control, as well as improving
thermal comfort.
[0127] The highly inductive discharge pattern of the diffuser can
improve mixing of the fresh air supplied by the diffuser with room
air, thereby improving the removal of pollutants and contaminants
by dilution, resulting in improved indoor air quality in comparison
to prior art standard grilles.
[0128] The highly inductive discharge pattern of the diffuser can
reduce the vertical temperature gradient in the occupancy space in
heating mode, thereby improving heating performance, enhancing
comfort, and reducing energy consumption in comparison to prior art
standard grilles.
[0129] The highly inductive discharge pattern of the diffuser can
provide stable, draught-free airflow patterns even when low
temperature (less than 10.degree. C.) supply air is discharged,
thereby allowing fan energy savings to be achieved, due to the
reduced airflow requirements of such systems in comparison to the
performance of a prior art standard grilles.
[0130] The highly inductive discharge pattern and thermally
decoupling design of discharge elements from the perforated face
and mounting frame can reduce the risk of condensation in high
humidity applications, such as the tropics, in comparison to both
prior art standard grilles and prior art high induction
diffusers.
[0131] The adjustability of the discharge pattern allows airflow
patterns to be manually adjusted to suit the shape of the occupancy
space, without a visible impact on the aesthetics of the diffuser,
unlike both prior art standard grilles and prior art high induction
diffusers.
[0132] The shallow depth of the diffuser can allow for installation
in restricted spaces.
[0133] The design of the diffuser can allow larger supply air
quantities to be discharged with respect to the face area of the
diffuser than is realised by prior art high induction side-wall
diffusers.
[0134] The low operating pressure of the diffuser can reduce energy
consumption and can make the diffuser suitable for low pressure
HVAC systems, such as fan-coil units.
[0135] The low regenerated noise of the diffuser can make it
suitable for noise sensitive applications, such as hotel rooms.
[0136] The suitability of the diffuser to both short throw and long
throw applications, without creating draughts or stagnation in the
occupancy space, can improve thermal comfort and reduce
commissioning costs.
[0137] The suitability of the diffuser to HVAC systems with varying
airflow rate, without creating draughts or stagnation in the
occupancy space, can improve thermal comfort.
[0138] The flush and uniformly perforated face of the diffuser is
both aesthetically appealing and easy to clean.
[0139] The diffuser discharge pattern can reduce the rate at which
dirt accumulates on the front face of the diffuser (known as
"smudging") thereby further improving the aesthetics of the
diffuser and reducing cleaning costs.
[0140] As the adjustable components of the diffuser are only
accessible via a tool, unintended adjustment of the diffuser
discharge pattern can be averted, such as may occur for example by
cleaners wiping the face of the diffuser.
[0141] The design of the diffuser can allow low cost fabrication to
be achieved due to the simplicity of the components and the ability
to achieve economies of scale from the mass production of the
discharge elements, thereby making the diffuser affordable for
standard side-wall applications, such as hotel rooms.
[0142] The term "comprising" (and its grammatical variations) as
used herein are used in the inclusive sense of "including" (i.e.
not limited just to the listed features) and thus is not to be
interpreted in the sense of "consisting only of".
* * * * *