System and method for passively removing moisture from air within a vehicle

Abstract

The present application discloses a ventilation system and method for controlling moisture in a vehicle. The ventilation system includes one or more inlet ducts and outlet ducts that extend through the inner wall and extend into the gap formed at the outer wall. The ventilation system allows a passive airflow with air to move into the one or more inlet ducts and into the gap. The air cools against the outer wall and falls vertically along the gap. When the air is in the gap, the moisture in the air freezes against the outer wall. Then, the air with less moisture moves through the one or more outlet ducts and returns to the interior space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to moisture control. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods for passively controlling moisture within a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] The outer walls of an aircraft experience temperature changes during flight. When the aircraft is on the ground or at a low altitude, the outer walls may be relatively warm, while at a higher altitude, the outer walls may be relatively cool. Insulation is positioned along the outer walls to account for temperature changes and maintain a more constant temperature within the aircraft cabin. The insulation is typically formed of a waterproof material. During flight, when the aircraft is at a high altitude, liquid from the humid air in the cabin can condense on the cold outer walls and freeze. During descent, this frozen liquid can melt and drip back into the cabin.

[0003] Because the insulation is waterproof, liquids can flow along the insulation and drain into the bilge. However, in some locations, structures and / or supports may protrude through the insulation. For example, support members supporting structures and tanks extend through the insulation and into the cabin. The insulation may be provided with predetermined holes for support members to extend through the insulation. When the liquid melts, it will drip from the holes and into the cabin. Summary of the invention

[0004] One aspect relates to a system for passively removing moisture from air in a vehicle. The vehicle includes an outer wall, an insulating layer extending along the outer wall, a gap formed between the outer wall and the insulating layer, and a cabin area formed in the insulating layer at the center of the vehicle. The system includes a first duct extending through the insulating layer. The first duct includes an inlet positioned in the cabin area of ​​the vehicle and an outlet positioned in the gap formed between the outer wall and the insulating layer. A second duct extends through the insulating layer. The second duct includes an inlet positioned in the gap and an outlet positioned in the cabin area. The second duct is positioned vertically below the first duct in the vehicle. The inlet and outlet of each of the first duct and the second duct are open and not attached to an air moving device. The first duct and the second duct are positioned so that air in the vehicle can passively move through the first duct and into the gap, move downward through the gap (where moisture in the air freezes against the outer wall), and move out of the second duct and back into the cabin area.

[0005] In another aspect, the first conduit has a smaller minimum cross-sectional area than the second conduit.

[0006] In another aspect, the system includes a seal positioned vertically below the second duct along the gap, wherein the seal is configured to prevent air from flowing vertically below the second duct along the gap.

[0007] One aspect is directed to a vehicle. The vehicle includes an outer wall that experiences a decrease in temperature in response to an increase in the vehicle's altitude. An insulating layer is positioned along the outer wall. The insulating layer includes an outer side facing the outer wall and includes an inner side. A gap is positioned between the outer wall and the insulating layer. The gap extends from the top of the vehicle downward along the side wall of the vehicle. A seal is positioned at the gap to prevent airflow. A first duct extends through the insulating layer and includes an inlet positioned on the inner side of the insulating layer and an outlet positioned in the gap. A second duct extends through the insulating layer and includes an inlet positioned in the gap and an outlet positioned on the inner side of the insulating layer. Each of the inlet of the first duct and the outlet of the second duct is open and exposed on the inner side of the insulating layer. The second duct is positioned vertically below the first duct and vertically above the seal. When air in the gap moves from the first duct to the second duct, the outer wall at a temperature lowered to below the freezing temperature of water causes moisture in the air in the gap to freeze against the outer wall.

[0008] In another aspect, the outer wall is an exterior wall of a vehicle.

[0009] In another aspect, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first conduit is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second conduit.

[0010] In another aspect, a drain is positioned vertically below the second conduit, wherein the drain is configured to receive moisture accumulated within the gap.

[0011] In another aspect, the inlet of the second conduit faces vertically downward within the gap to prevent moisture within the gap from being trapped in the second conduit.

[0012] In another aspect, the first duct is positioned near a roof of the vehicle and the second duct is positioned along a sidewall of the vehicle.

[0013] Another aspect relates to a method for passively ventilating air within a vehicle. The method includes passively moving air from a cabin area into one or more first ducts that extend through an insulating layer and into a gap formed between the insulating layer and an outer wall of the vehicle. The method includes cooling air flowing against the outer wall within the gap, wherein the temperature of the outer wall is lower than the condensation temperature of water, and the outer wall cools the air flowing along the wall and moves the air vertically downward within the gap toward a second duct. The method includes freezing moisture in the air in contact with the outer wall in the gap. The method includes passively moving the air through one or more second ducts and back into the cabin area. The method includes preventing the air from moving vertically along the gap below the one or more second ducts.

[0014] In another aspect, the method includes generating a gas pressure differential within the gap between an outlet of one or more first conduits and an inlet of one or more second conduits.

[0015] In another aspect, the method includes exposing inlets of one or more first ducts and outlets of one or more second ducts in a cabin area.

[0016] In another aspect, the method includes capturing moisture in a gap beneath the one or more second conduits and moving the moisture out of the gap.

[0017] In another aspect, the method includes sealing a gap below the one or more second conduits and preventing air in the gap from moving downward in the gap beyond the one or more second conduits.

[0018] In another aspect, the method includes positioning one or more first ducts through the insulation layer, wherein an inlet of the one or more first ducts is in the cabin region and an outlet of the one or more first ducts is within a gap formed between the insulation layer and the outer wall.

[0019] In another aspect, the method includes positioning one or more second ducts passing through the insulation layer vertically below the one or more first ducts, and positioning an inlet of the one or more second ducts within the gap and an outlet of the one or more second ducts in the cabin area.

[0020] In another aspect, the method includes positioning one or more first ducts on top of a vehicle and positioning one or more second ducts along a side wall of the vehicle and above a floor of a cabin area.

[0021] In another aspect, the method includes reducing a temperature of air within the gap and increasing a density of the air as the air moves from the one or more first ducts toward the one or more second ducts.

[0022] In another aspect, the method includes increasing the temperature of the air in the cabin area after it is exhausted from the one or more second ducts and decreasing the density of the air as it moves from the one or more second ducts toward a top of the vehicle.

[0023] In another aspect, the method includes extending a body of one or more first and second conduits through the isolation layer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a vehicle.

[0025] Figure 2 is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II.

[0026] Figure 3 is a side view of a vent system with drains and seals.

[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the inlet duct.

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the inlet duct.

[0029] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the outlet pipe.

[0030] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a pipe extending through an insulation layer.

[0031] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the pipe extending into the gap.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a conduit extending through overlapping insulation layers.

[0033] Fig.10 is a side view of a vent system with drains and seals.

[0034] Fig.11 is a flow chart of a method for passively ventilating air within a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The present application relates to a ventilation system for controlling moisture in a vehicle. The ventilation system includes one or more inlet ducts extending through an inner wall. The inlet end is positioned in the interior space of the vehicle, and the outlet end is positioned in a gap formed at the outer wall. The outer wall is cooled by external air during operation when the vehicle is flying at a high altitude, and experiences a temperature reduction below the freezing temperature of water in response to an increase in the altitude of the vehicle (e.g., an altitude above 10,000 feet). The ventilation system also includes one or more outlet ducts extending through the inner wall and vertically positioned below the one or more inlet ducts. The outlet duct includes an inlet end in the gap and an outlet end in the interior space of the vehicle. The ventilation system provides a passive airflow, wherein the air moves into the one or more inlet ducts and into the gap. The air in the gap can move along the outer wall and / or flow against the outer wall, where the air is cooled and falls vertically along the gap. The moisture in the air in the gap freezes against the outer wall, while the air moves in the gap to control the moisture of the air. The air in the gap then moves through the one or more outlet ducts and returns to the interior space.

[0036] Ventilation systems and methods of controlling moisture are used in a variety of vehicles. Figure 1 One type of vehicle 100 is shown, namely an aircraft 100. The aircraft 100 comprises a nose 101, wings 102, a fuselage 103 and a tail 104. Figure 1Also shown is a downward arrow 105 which indicates the expected direction that gravity will pull objects, such as water, onto the vehicle 100 in a normal operating profile.

[0037] Figure 2 Is Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aircraft 100 as shown by the view arrow II-II. Figure 2 A simplified form of a portion of an aircraft fuselage 103 is shown including an outer wall 40. The fuselage 103 also includes an insulation layer 41 located inwardly from the outer wall 40 toward the center of the fuselage 103. A gap 42 is formed between the outer wall 40 and the insulation layer 41. The fuselage 103 also includes a cabin 113 including a floor 110, a ceiling 111, and a decorative panel wall 112. The cabin 113 may be equipped with seats 114 and luggage compartments 115 to accommodate passengers.

[0038] Breathing and other water sources cause moisture 120 to be absorbed or formed in the air in the cabin 113. For example, exhaled warm air includes moisture 120, which rises upward through the luggage compartment 115. Some of the warm and moist air rises through the ceiling 111 and enters the head space 43 of the cabin 113. In addition, some of the warm air continues to rise upward through the insulation layer 41 and enters the gap 42 formed between the insulation layer 41 and the outer wall 40.

[0039] The ventilation system 10 is positioned to passively ventilate the air within the vehicle 100. The ventilation system 10 may be located above the cabin 113 to move the air within the head space 43 and the gap 42 between the insulation layer 41 and the outer wall 40. The ventilation system 10 includes one or more inlet ducts 20 and one or more outlet ducts 30. The inlet duct 20 and the outlet duct 30 extend through the opening 44 in the insulation layer 41 to move air between the head space 43 and the gap 42. The inlet duct 20 may be positioned along the upstream of the head space 43 so as to extend through the insulation layer 41 at the upstream of the head space 43, and the inlet duct is configured to move air from the head space 43 into the gap 42. The outlet duct 30 is vertically positioned below the inlet duct 20 so as to extend through the insulation layer 41 at the lower region of the head space 43, and the outlet duct is configured to move air from the gap 42 into the head space 43.

[0040] The ventilation system 10 may include various numbers of inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30. This may include a single inlet duct 20 and a corresponding single outlet duct 30. The ventilation system 10 may also include multiple inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30. The inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 may be positioned in pairs or in uneven numbers. The inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 may extend along the length of the fuselage 103, or may extend along one or more limited portions. The inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 may be positioned along both the starboard side and the port side of the aircraft 100, or only along a single side.

[0041] The ventilation system 10 uses the buoyancy of the air to create an airflow between the headspace 43 and the gap 42. The warm air rises in the headspace 43. In this vertically elevated position, the air moves through the one or more inlet ducts 20 and enters the gap 42. Once in the gap 42, the air in the gap can move along the outer wall 40 and / or flow against the outer wall 40, wherein the temperature of the outer wall 40 decreases below the freezing temperature of water as the altitude of the vehicle increases, and cools the air in the gap 42. The cold air along the outer wall 40 becomes denser than the air in the cabin 113, and then the cold air sinks vertically in the gap 42 to a lower vertical position. The cold air has a higher pressure and moves through the one or more outlet ducts 30 and returns to the headspace 43, which has relatively warmer air at a lower air pressure. The air flow rate in the ventilation system 10 depends on the vertical height difference between the one or more inlet ducts 20 and the one or more outlet ducts 30, and the temperature difference between the headspace 43 and the gap 42.

[0042] The movement of air along the gap 42 also allows moisture to be removed from the air. Since the outer wall 40 is cooled by the outside air at high altitudes during flight, the temperature of the outer wall 40 eventually decreases to a temperature below the freezing temperature of water. This cooling causes moisture 120 in the air to condense from the air and form ice in the gap 42 and condense on the outer wall 40. When the aircraft 100 descends to a lower altitude and / or begins to descend for landing, as the temperature increases, the ice begins to melt, thereby forming water droplets. The drain 60 located downstream of the gap 42 captures the water and directs the water flow, such as toward the bottom 116 of the fuselage 103. This can prevent the moisture 120 from potentially moving along the support members 161 and entering the cabin 113.

[0043] The ventilation system 10 uses buoyancy driven airflow to circulate through the head space 43 and the gap 42. The ventilation system 10 does not include an air moving device such as a fan, air conditioning unit, etc. to move the air. One or more inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 are exposed within the head space 43 and the gap 42 and provide a conduit for the air flow.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the gap 42 includes an air seal 50 vertically below the one or more outlet ducts 30. The air seal 50 acts as a block to direct air through the one or more outlet ducts 30 and into the head space 43. The air seal 50 can be positioned directly below the one or more outlet ducts 30 to prevent air moving downward in the gap 42 from moving vertically below and above the one or more outlet ducts 30. The air seal 50 can also be positioned further below the one or more outlet ducts 30 to limit the amount of air moving below the one or more outlet ducts 30. The air seal 50 can include a single sealing structure, or multiple separate structures positioned along the vehicle 100.

[0045] Drain 60 is positioned in gap 42 to remove moisture. Drain 60 may be located vertically below one or more outlet pipes 30 along gap 42. One design includes one or more of drains 60 being positioned vertically in gap 42 between one or more outlet pipes 30 and air seal 50. This positioning allows drain 60 to capture moisture in gap 42 and moving downward due to gravity. Drain 60 may be positioned at other vertical locations within gap 42, including vertically equal to one or more outlet pipes 30.

[0046] One or more inlet ducts 20 are conduits for moving air from the head space 43 and into the gap 42. Figure 4 As shown, the inlet duct 20 includes an elongated body 23 having a first inlet end 21 and a second outlet end 22. The body 23 is sized to extend through the insulation layer 41, wherein the inlet end 21 is exposed within the head space 43 to receive air, and the outlet end 22 is positioned in the gap 42. The inlet duct 20 includes a cross-sectional area that can have a variety of different shapes and sizes.

[0047] One or more of the inlet conduits 20 may be designed to prevent condensation from forming inside at a point where liquid may drip into the head space 43. In one design, the inlet conduits 20 are oriented so that the inlet end 21 is positioned vertically above the outlet end 22. Condensation that forms inside the inlet conduits 20 is then directed into the gap 42, where the moisture can move along the gap 42 to the drain 60.

[0048] The one or more inlet conduits 20 may be configured to reduce or eliminate the accumulation of condensed water along a section of the interior or throughout the interior. Figure 5An inlet duct 20 is included having an insulation layer 24 positioned on the inside at the inlet end 21. The insulation layer 24 prevents or reduces condensation of moisture laden air entering the inlet end 21 along this interior section of the inlet duct 20. The insulation layer 24 is positioned along a section of the inlet duct 20 that is located in the gap 42. Moisture in the air tends to condense because this section is exposed to lower temperatures than the section of the inlet duct 20 in the head space 43. The insulation layer 24 can be constructed of a variety of materials, including but not limited to adhered closed cell foam insulation, cold side closed fiberglass wool insulation, closed open cell foam materials, and composite insulation materials. In one design, the entire duct 20 is constructed of closed cell foam insulation and does not include a separate insulation layer 24.

[0049] The one or more outlet ducts 30 are conduits for moving air from the gap 42 and into the head space 43 . Figure 6 Outlet conduit 30 is shown and includes an elongated body 33 having a first inlet end 31 and a second outlet end 32. Body 33 is sized to extend through insulation layer 41 with inlet end 31 exposed within gap 42 and outlet end 32 exposed within head space 43. Outlet conduit 30 may include a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of ​​inlet conduit 20.

[0050] Figure 7 An inlet duct 20 is shown extending through insulation layer 41. Inlet end 21 and adjacent segments are positioned in head space 43, and outlet end 22 and adjacent segments are positioned in gap 42. Inlet duct 20 may be angled so that inlet end 21 is vertically higher than outlet end 22. This orientation directs any condensed water into gap 42 where it can ultimately move to drain 60.

[0051] like Figure 8 As shown, the inlet duct 20 extends through the opening 44 in the insulating layer 41. A flap 85 can be attached to the insulating layer 41 and extend over the inlet duct 20 positioned in the gap 42. The flap 85 is sealed to the insulating layer 41 vertically above the opening 44. The flap 85 can prevent the uninsulated edge along the opening 44 from leaking condensation through the insulating layer 41 and into the head space 43. The flap 85 can be made of insulating material and can have the same construction as the insulating layer 41. The flap 85 can also be used on the outlet duct 30 in a similar manner to reduce condensation leaking into the head space 43.

[0052] The inlet duct 20 and the outlet duct 30 extend through openings 44 in the insulating layer 41. The openings 44 may be cut in the insulating layer 41 and are sized to accommodate the ducts 20, 30. In one design, the insulating layer 41 is solid, such as molded foam. Fig. 9An opening 44 formed between two covered, overlapping insulating layers 41a, 41b is shown. The overlapping section 45 of the insulating layer 41 is sealed to prevent condensation water from leaking into the head space 43.

[0053] Fig.10 A ventilation system 10 is shown having one or more inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 positioned along the port and starboard sides of an aircraft 100. The inlet ducts 20 are positioned vertically above the outlet ducts 30 along the upstream of the head space 43. Different inlet ducts 20 can each be positioned at the same or different heights within the head space 43. The outlet ducts 30 are positioned vertically below the inlet ducts 20 along the downstream of the head space 43. Different outlet ducts 30 can be positioned at the same or different heights within the head space 43. The inlet ducts 20 and outlet ducts 30 each extend into a gap 42 formed between an outer wall 40 and an insulation layer 41.

[0054] The outlet duct 30 may be positioned so that the inlet end 31 faces downward in the gap 42. This positioning may prevent moisture in the gap 42 vertically above the outlet duct 30 from moving vertically downward in the gap 42 and entering the outlet duct 30.

[0055] The seal 50 is formed between the insulating layer 41 and one or more additional insulating layers 72 . Fig.10 Specifically, it comprises an insulating layer 41 extending between two additional insulating layers 72. The insulating layers 41, 72 prevent air from flowing vertically under the seal 50.

[0056] The drain port 60 is vertically positioned below the outlet duct 30 to remove moisture in the gap 42. The drain port 60 may be formed between two or more insulation layers 41,72.

[0057] The ventilation system 10 may be initially installed during the manufacturing process of the vehicle 100. The ventilation system 10 may also be installed in an existing vehicle 100.

[0058] Fig.11A method for passively ventilating air in a vehicle 100 using a ventilation system 10 is shown. The method includes passively moving air from a cabin area 113 into a first duct 20 (frame 200). The air is moved into a gap 42 and into contact with an outer wall 40 of the vehicle 100 (frame 202). When the air is in the gap 42, the air is cooled when it contacts and flows against the outer wall 40 (frame 204). The cooling air along the outer wall 40 moves vertically downward toward the second duct 30 in the gap 42 (frame 206). When the air moves in the gap 42, moisture in the air freezes against the outer wall 40 and is removed from the air (frame 208). At the bottom of the gap 42, the air is prevented from moving vertically below the second duct 30 (frame 210). The air moves passively through the second duct 30 in the gap 42 and returns to the cabin area 113 (frame 212).

[0059] Describes Fig.11 , wherein air moves through the inlet duct 20 and the outlet duct 30. The ventilation system 10 may include various numbers of the inlet duct 20 and the outlet duct 30, each of which the air moves through to control moisture in the air.

[0060] The inner wall can include a variety of configurations. One aspect includes the inner wall being a barrier layer 41. Other aspects include the inner wall being a wall of a panel wall 112, a structural wall, and a luggage compartment wall 115.

[0061] The outer wall 40 may include an outer wall of the vehicle 100. The outer wall 40 may also be spaced within and positioned near the outer wall to change the temperature based on the altitude of the vehicle 100.

[0062] The device 10 can be used on various vehicles 100. The vehicles 100 include, but are not limited to, manned aircraft, unmanned aircraft, manned spacecraft, unmanned spacecraft, manned rotorcraft, unmanned rotorcraft, satellites, rockets, missiles, manned land vehicles, unmanned land vehicles, manned water vehicles, unmanned water vehicles, manned underwater vehicles, unmanned underwater vehicles, and combinations thereof.

[0063] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0064] Clause 1. A system for passively removing moisture from air within a vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising an outer wall (40), an insulation layer (41) extending along the outer wall (40), a gap (42) formed between the outer wall (40) and the insulation layer (41), and a cabin area (113) formed within the insulation layer (41) at the center of the vehicle (100), the system comprising:

[0065] a first duct (20) extending through the insulation layer (41), the first duct (20) including an inlet (21) positioned in a cabin area (113) of the vehicle (100) and an outlet (22) positioned in a gap (42) formed between the outer wall (40) and the insulation layer (41);

[0066] a second duct (30) extending through the insulation layer (41), the second duct (30) including an inlet (31) positioned in the gap (42) and an outlet (32) positioned in the cabin area (113);

[0067] The second duct (30) is positioned vertically below the first duct (20) in the vehicle (100); and

[0068] The inlet (21, 31) and outlet (22, 32) of each of the first duct (20) and the second duct (30) are open and not attached to the air moving device;

[0069] The first duct (20) and the second duct (30) are positioned to enable air within the vehicle (100) to: passively move through the first duct (20) and into the gap (42); move downward through the gap (42) where moisture in the air freezes against the outer wall (40); and move out of the second duct (30) and back into the cabin area (113).

[0070] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the first conduit (20) has a smaller minimum cross-sectional area than the second conduit (30).

[0071] Clause 3. The system of clause 1, further comprising a seal (50) positioned vertically below the second duct (30) along the gap (42), the seal (50) being configured to prevent air from flowing vertically below the second duct (30) along the gap (42).

[0072] Clause 4. A vehicle (100), comprising:

[0073] an outer wall (40) that experiences a decrease in temperature in response to an increase in altitude of the vehicle (100);

[0074] an isolation layer (41) positioned along the outer wall (40), the isolation layer (41) including an outer side facing the outer wall (40) and including an inner side;

[0075] a gap (42) positioned between the outer wall (40) and the insulation layer (41), the gap (42) extending downwardly from the top of the vehicle (100) along the side wall of the vehicle (100);

[0076] a seal (50) positioned at the gap (42) to prevent air flow;

[0077] a first conduit (20) extending through the insulating layer (41), the first conduit (20) comprising an inlet (21) positioned on the inside of the insulating layer (41) and an outlet (22) positioned in the gap (42);

[0078] a second conduit (30) extending through the insulating layer (41), the second conduit (30) including an inlet (31) positioned in the gap (42) and an outlet (32) positioned on the inside of the insulating layer (41); and

[0079] Each of the inlet (21) of the first pipe (20) and the outlet (32) of the second pipe (30) is open and exposed on the inner side of the isolation layer (41);

[0080] The second conduit (30) is vertically positioned below the first conduit (20) and vertically positioned above the seal (50);

[0081] When the temperature of the outer wall (40) drops below the freezing temperature of water, the moisture in the air in the gap (42) freezes against the outer wall (40) when the air in the gap (42) moves from the first pipe (20) to the second pipe (30).

[0082] Clause 5. The vehicle (100) according to clause 4, wherein the outer wall (40) is an exterior wall of the vehicle (100).

[0083] Clause 6. The vehicle (100) of Clause 4, wherein the first duct (20) comprises a smaller cross-sectional area than the second duct (30).

[0084] Clause 7. The vehicle (100) of Clause 4, further comprising a drain (60) positioned vertically below the second conduit (30), the drain (60) being configured to receive moisture accumulated within the gap (42).

[0085] Clause 8. The vehicle (100) of Clause 4, wherein the inlet of the second duct (30) faces vertically downward within the gap (42) to prevent moisture within the gap (42) from being trapped in the second duct (30).

[0086] Clause 9. The vehicle (100) of clause 4, wherein the first duct (20) is positioned near a top of the vehicle (100) and the second duct (30) is positioned along a side wall of the vehicle (100).

[0087] Clause 10. A method of passively ventilating air within a vehicle (100), the method comprising:

[0088] passively moving air from the cabin area (113) into one or more first ducts (20) extending through the insulation layer (41) and into a gap (42) formed between the insulation layer (41) and an outer wall (40) of the vehicle (100);

[0089] cooling air flowing against the outer wall (40) within the gap (42) and moving the air vertically downward within the gap (42) toward the second duct (30), wherein the temperature of the outer wall (40) is below the freezing temperature of water and causes cooling of the air flowing along the wall;

[0090] Freezing moisture in the air in the gap (42) in contact with the outer wall (40);

[0091] Passively moving air through one or more second ducts (30) and back into the cabin area (113); and

[0092] Air is prevented from moving vertically along the gap (42) underneath the one or more second ducts (30).

[0093] Clause 11. The method according to clause 10, further comprising generating a gas pressure difference in a gap (42) between an outlet (22) of the one or more first conduits (20) and an inlet (31) of the one or more second conduits (30).

[0094] Clause 12. The method of clause 10, further comprising exposing inlets (21) of one or more first ducts (20) and outlets (32) of one or more second ducts (30) in the cabin area (113).

[0095] Clause 13. The method of clause 10, further comprising capturing moisture in a gap (42) beneath the one or more second conduits (30) and moving the moisture out of the gap (42).

[0096] Clause 14. The method of clause 10, further comprising sealing the gap (42) below the one or more second conduits (30) and preventing air in the gap (42) from moving downward in the gap (42) beyond the one or more second conduits (30).

[0097] Clause 15. The method according to clause 10 further includes positioning one or more first ducts (20) through the insulation layer (41), wherein an inlet (21) of the one or more first ducts (20) is in the cabin area (113), and an outlet (22) of the one or more first ducts (20) is in a gap (42) formed between the insulation layer (41) and the outer wall (40).

[0098] Clause 16. The method according to clause 15 further includes vertically positioning one or more second ducts (30) through an isolation layer (41) below one or more first ducts (20), positioning an inlet (31) of one or more second ducts (30) within a gap (42), and positioning an outlet (32) of one or more second ducts (30) in a cabin area (113).

[0099] Clause 17. The method of clause 10, further comprising positioning one or more first ducts (20) on top of the vehicle (100) and positioning one or more second ducts (30) along a side wall of the vehicle (100) and above a floor of the cabin area (113).

[0100] Clause 18. The method of clause 10, further comprising decreasing the temperature of the air within the gap (42) and increasing the density of the air as the air moves from the one or more first ducts (20) toward the one or more second ducts (30).

[0101] Clause 19. The method according to clause 10 further includes increasing the temperature of the air within the cabin area (113) after the air is discharged from the one or more second ducts (30) and reducing the density of the air as the air moves from the one or more second ducts (30) toward the top of the vehicle (100).

[0102] Clause 20. The method of Clause 10, further comprising extending a body of one or more of the first conduit (20) and the second conduit (30) through the isolation layer (41).

[0103] Without departing from the essential characteristics of the present disclosure, the present disclosure may be carried out in other ways than those specifically set forth herein. The present invention should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalency range of the appended claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. A means of transport, comprising: outer wall(40); an isolation layer (41) extending along the outer wall (40); a gap (42) formed between the outer wall (40) and the isolation layer (41); A cabin area (113) formed in the insulating layer (41) at the center of the vehicle (100); as well as A system for passively removing moisture from air within a vehicle (100), the system comprising: a first duct (20) extending through the insulation layer (41), the first duct (20) comprising an inlet (21) positioned in the cabin area (113) of the vehicle (100) and comprising an outlet (22) positioned in the gap (42) formed between the outer wall (40) and the insulation layer (41); a second duct (30) extending through the insulation layer (41), the second duct (30) comprising an inlet (31) positioned in the gap (42) and comprising an outlet (32) positioned in the cabin area (113); wherein the second duct (30) is vertically positioned below the first duct (20) in the vehicle (100); and an inlet and an outlet of each of the first duct (20) and the second duct (30) being open and not attached to an air moving device; The first duct (20) and the second duct (30) are positioned to enable air within the vehicle (100) to: passively move through the first duct (20) and into the gap (42); move downward through the gap (42) where moisture in the air freezes against the outer wall (40); and move out of the second duct (30) and back into the cabin area (113); Wherein, the first pipe (20) has a minimum cross-sectional area smaller than that of the second pipe (30).

2. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a seal (50) positioned vertically below the second duct (30) along the gap (42), the seal (50) being configured to prevent air from flowing vertically below the second duct (30) along the gap (42).

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises: an outer wall (40) of the vehicle that experiences a decrease in temperature in response to an increase in altitude of the vehicle (100); an isolation layer (41) positioned along the outer wall (40), the isolation layer (41) including an outer side facing the outer wall (40) and an inner side; a gap (42) positioned between the outer wall (40) and the isolation layer (41), the gap (42) extending from the top of the vehicle (100) downwardly along the side wall of the vehicle (100); a seal (50) positioned at the gap (42) to prevent air flow; in The first conduit (20) extends through the insulating layer (41), the first conduit (20) comprising the inlet (21) positioned on the inner side of the insulating layer (41) and comprising the outlet (22) positioned in the gap (42); and The second conduit (30) extends through the insulating layer (41), the second conduit (30) comprising the inlet (31) positioned in the gap (42) and comprising the outlet (32) positioned on the inner side of the insulating layer (41); and Each of the inlet (21) of the first pipe (20) and the outlet (32) of the second pipe (30) is open and exposed on the inner side of the isolation layer (41); The second pipe (30) is vertically positioned below the first pipe (20) and vertically positioned above the seal (50); When the temperature of the outer wall (40) drops below the freezing temperature of water, the moisture in the air in the gap (42) freezes against the outer wall (40) when the air in the gap (42) moves from the first pipe (20) to the second pipe (30).

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the outer wall (40) is an exterior wall of the vehicle (100).

5. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the first duct (20) comprises a smaller cross-sectional area than the second duct (30).

6. The vehicle according to any one of claims 3 to 5, the system further comprising a drain (60) positioned vertically below the second conduit (30), the drain (60) being configured to receive moisture accumulated within the gap (42).

7. The vehicle according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the inlet of the second duct (30) faces vertically downward within the gap (42) to prevent moisture within the gap (42) from being trapped in the second duct (30).

8. The vehicle according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the first duct (20) is positioned near the top of the vehicle (100) and the second duct (30) is positioned along a side wall of the vehicle (100).

9. A method for passively ventilating air within a vehicle (100), the method comprising: passively moving air from a cabin area (113) into one or more first ducts (20) extending through an insulation layer (41) and into a gap (42) formed between the insulation layer (41) and an outer wall (40) of the vehicle (100); cooling air flowing against the outer wall (40) within the gap (42), wherein the temperature of the outer wall (40) is below the freezing temperature of water and the outer wall cools the air flowing along the outer wall and moves the air vertically downward within the gap (42) toward one or more second ducts (30); Freezing moisture in the air in the gap (42) in contact with the outer wall (40); Passively moving air through the one or more second ducts (30) and back into the cabin area (113); and preventing air from moving vertically along the gap (42) below the one or more second ducts (30); Wherein, the first conduit (20) has a minimum cross-sectional area smaller than the one or more second conduits (30).

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising generating a pressure difference between an outlet (22) of the one or more first conduits (20) and an inlet (31) of the one or more second conduits (30) within the gap (42).

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising exposing an inlet (21) of the one or more first ducts (20) and an outlet (32) of the one or more second ducts (30) in the cabin area (113).

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising capturing moisture in the gap (42) below the one or more second pipes (30) and moving the moisture out of the gap (42).

13. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: The one or more first pipes (20) are positioned through the insulating layer (41), wherein the inlet (21) of the one or more first pipes (20) is located in the cabin area (113), and the outlet (22) of the one or more first pipes (20) is located in the gap (42) formed between the insulating layer (41) and the outer wall (40); and the one or more second pipes (30) are vertically positioned below the one or more first pipes (20) through the insulating layer (41), and the inlet (31) of the one or more second pipes (30) is positioned in the gap (42) and the outlet (32) of the one or more second pipes (30) is positioned in the cabin area (113).

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, further comprising positioning the one or more first ducts (20) on top of the vehicle (100), and positioning the one or more second ducts (30) along a side wall of the vehicle (100) and above a floor of the cabin area (113).

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