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.

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.[0...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[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 ...

Problems solved by technology

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 volat...

Images