Packaged terminal air conditioner unit

Abstract

A packaged terminal air conditioner unit (PTAC) and methods for operating the same are provided. The PTAC includes a bulkhead defining a vent aperture providing fluid communication between an indoor portion and an outdoor portion. A vent door or a make-up air module is positioned proximate the vent aperture for controlling a flow of make-up air passing through the vent aperture. A communication module communicates with a remote source for obtaining outdoor environmental conditions and a controller selectively operates the vent door or the make-up air module based at least in part on the outdoor environmental conditions obtained from the remote source.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present disclosure relates generally to air conditioner units, and more particularly to packaged terminal air conditioner units and related methods of operation.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Air conditioner or conditioning units are conventionally utilized to adjust the temperature indoors—i.e. within structures such as dwellings and office buildings. Such units commonly include a closed refrigeration loop to heat or cool the indoor air. Typically, the indoor air is recirculated while being heated or cooled. A variety of sizes and configurations are available for such air conditioner units. For example, some units may have one portion installed within the indoors that is connected, by e.g., tubing carrying the refrigerant, to another portion located outdoors. These types of units are typically used for conditioning the air in larger spaces.[0003]Another type of unit, sometimes referred to as a packaged terminal air conditioner unit (PTAC), may be u...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a packaged terminal air conditioner unit (PTAC) and methods for operating it. The unit has a vent aperture that allows for fluid communication between an indoor and outdoor portion of the unit. A vent door is positioned near the vent aperture and can be opened or closed to control the flow of make-up air. The PTAC also includes a communication module that communicates with a remote source for obtaining outdoor environmental conditions. A controller selectively operates the vent door based on the outdoor environmental conditions. This technology allows for efficient control of the PTAC based on the surrounding outdoor conditions, improving its performance and comfort.

Problems solved by technology

However, these sensors add costs and complicate the design of the PTAC.

Moreover, each temperature sensor and humidity sensor are essentially measuring the same environmental conditions, resulting in an inefficient use of resources and unnecessary costs for each unit.

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