Methods and systems for mini-split liquid desiccant air conditioning

Abstract

A split liquid desiccant air conditioning system is disclosed for treating an air stream flowing into a space in a building. The split liquid desiccant air-conditioning system is switchable between operating in a warm weather operation mode and a cold weather operation mode.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 783,176 filed on Mar. 14, 2013 entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MINI-SPLIT LIQUID DESICCANT AIR CONDITIONING, which is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]The present application relates generally to the use of liquid desiccants to dehumidify and cool, or heat and humidify an air stream entering a space. More specifically, the application relates to the replacement of conventional mini-split air conditioning units with (membrane based) liquid desiccant air conditioning system to accomplish the same heating and cooling capabilities as those conventional mini-split air conditioners.[0003]Desiccant dehumidification systems—both liquid and solid desiccants—have been used parallel to conventional vapor compression HVAC equipment to help reduce humidity in spaces, particularly in spaces that require large amounts of outdoor air or that have large humidi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]Provided herein are methods and systems used for the efficient cooling and dehumidification of an air stream especially in small commercial or residential buildings using a mini-split liquid desiccant air conditioning system. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the liquid desiccant flows down the face of a support plate as a falling film. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the desiccant is contained by a microporous membrane and the air stream is directed in a primarily vertical orientation over the surface of the membrane and whereby both latent and sensible heat are absorbed from the air stream into the liquid desiccant. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the support plate is filled with a heat transfer fluid that ideally is flowing in a direction counter to the air stream. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the system comprises a conditioner that removes latent and sensible heat through the liquid desiccant into the heat transfer fluid and a regenerator that rejects the latent and sensible heat from the heat transfer fluid to the environment. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the heat transfer fluid in the conditioner is cooled by a r

Problems solved by technology

However, residential and small commercial buildings often use mini-split air conditioners wherein the condenser is located outside and the evaporator cooling coil is installed in the room or space than needs to be cooled, and unitary rooftop units are not an appropriate choice for servicing those spaces.

This often can result

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