Systems and methods for operating climate control to reduce viral propagation

Abstract

A method (400) for reducing the propagation of viruses in an enclosed space (102) includes providing (404) a minimum humidity ratio threshold that reduces the propagation of a particular virus. The method (400) further includes determining (406) a humidity ratio of the enclosed space (102) adapted to receive the organism. The method (400) further includes, in response to determining (410) that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold, increasing (412) the humidity ratio until the humidity ratio in the enclosed space (102) is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application No. 18 / 329,507, filed on June 5, 2023, entitled “Systems and methods for operating climate control to reduce the spread of viruses,” which claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 63 / 350,843, filed on June 9, 2022, entitled “Systems and methods for operating climate control to reduce the spread of viruses.” Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure embodiments generally relate to a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) climate control system for a vehicle or building. Specifically, the present disclosure embodiments relate to systems and methods for operating an HVAC climate control system to reduce the spread of viruses within an enclosed space. Background Art

[0004] For many viruses, the study found that when humidity increases, the rate of transmission decreases. For example, influenza spreads at a lower rate in higher humidity. SARS-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, may also spread at a lower rate in higher humidity. This is at least partly due to the fact that virus particles decay faster in more humid climates.

[0005] Of course, there are many ways to represent humidity, including relative humidity, absolute humidity, and humidity ratio. Depending on the virus, the function describing the transmission rate at different humidity levels may map to one humidity metric more accurately than another. For example, a hypothetical virus X might be more sensitive to relative humidity; while virus Y might be more sensitive to humidity ratio.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide a method of monitoring and regulating indoor climate, including indoor humidity, to reduce or eliminate viral transmission. Summary of the invention

[0007] Systems and methods for operating a climate control system to reduce viral transmission are described below. Operating a climate control system to regulate the humidity of an enclosed space is a reliable, non-invasive method for reducing the rate of viral transmission within an enclosed space.

[0008] Some embodiments provide a method for reducing the spread of viruses in a space. The method includes: providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold that reduces the spread of a specific virus, determining a humidity ratio for an enclosed space suitable for receiving an organism, and, in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold, increasing the humidity ratio until the humidity ratio in the enclosed space is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold includes a minimum humidity ratio that reduces the half-life of the virus. In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is within a comfort zone. In some embodiments, the comfort zone includes an ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, an EN 15251 comfort zone, or a Givoni-Milne bioclimatic diagram comfort zone. In some embodiments, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting the humidity ratio using a sensor.

[0009] In some embodiments, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting at least two of the following indicators: a dry bulb temperature of the space, a wet bulb temperature of the space, an absolute humidity of the space, a relative humidity of the space, a barometric pressure of the space, a vapor pressure of the space, a volume of air in the space, and an enthalpy of air in the space, and calculating the humidity ratio based on at least two of the detected indicators. In some embodiments, increasing the humidity ratio includes running a humidifier, disabling a dehumidifier, introducing air from outside the space into the space, maintaining a coil temperature above the dew point of the enclosed space, or disabling a compressor. In some embodiments, the method includes determining whether an organism has approached, entered, or occupied an enclosed space.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method includes maintaining the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the method includes maintaining the humidity ratio between a minimum humidity ratio threshold and a maximum humidity ratio threshold after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a maximum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the maximum humidity ratio threshold is within a comfort zone. In some embodiments, maintaining the humidity ratio includes maintaining the humidity ratio for a predetermined time. In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of time is based on a half-life of a virus at the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the method includes reducing the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0011] Some embodiments provide a system for reducing the spread of viruses in a space, comprising one or more sensors, and a controller electrically coupled to the one or more sensors, wherein the controller is configured to perform any of the above methods. Some embodiments include a non-transitory computer-readable medium, which includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform any of the above methods. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrated in the accompanying drawings by way of example and not limitation. Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts.

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an enclosure according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an HVAC system according to some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a controller according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method for reducing virus transmission in an enclosed space according to some embodiments.

[0017] Figures 5A-5E are example psychrometric charts, some of which include symbols that demonstrate certain aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the embodiments.

[0019] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The specific embodiments described herein are provided by way of example only, and the present disclosure is limited only by the terms of the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which these claims are entitled.

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of a refrigerant system for controlling the climate within an enclosed space and reducing the potential for spreading viruses within the enclosed space. The refrigeration system disclosed herein can control the humidity within an enclosed space to reduce the spread of specific viruses while keeping the enclosed space comfortable or suitable for organisms to stay in for a long time.

[0021] As used herein, a "refrigerant" is a fluid adapted to undergo a phase change between a liquid and a gas during operation of a corresponding refrigerant system. For example, the liquid-to-gas transition point of the refrigerant is below the target operating temperature of the refrigerant system. In various embodiments, the refrigerant may be a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 refrigerant.

[0022] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram 100 of an enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 is the interior of a vehicle, such as the cab of a truck, airplane, ship, or train. In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 is the interior of a building, such as a room in a home, a classroom in a school, an auditorium in a theater, or a floor of an office building. In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 is the entire interior of a vehicle (e.g., each car of a train) or the entire interior of a building (e.g., each room in a home).

[0023] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 has an entrance 104 into the space. In some embodiments, the entrance 104 is a door, such as a hinged door, a revolving door, or a sliding door. Alternatively, the entrance 104 is a doorway, a window, or any other entrance or exit through which a creature can enter the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes multiple such entrances 104. For example, a house with a front door, a back door, a pet door, a garage door, and one or more windows constitutes an enclosed space with one or more entrances.

[0024] In some embodiments, enclosure 102 includes a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 106. In some embodiments, HVAC system 106 includes a compressor 108, a condenser 110, a fan 112, an evaporator 114, and a blower 116. It should be understood that the HVAC system may include more or fewer components. For more information on the operation of an example HVAC unit, see Figure 2 and related descriptions.

[0025] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a recirculation system 118. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 includes a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter 120 or an ultraviolet (UV) lamp 122. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 uses the HEPA filter 120 and / or the UV lamp 122 to filter air from the enclosed space 102 and kill airborne bacteria. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 includes one or more fans 124. In some embodiments, the recirculation system uses one or more fans 124 to pull air from the enclosed space 102 into the recirculation system 118, through the HEPA filter and / or the UV lamp, and then back to the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 uses one or more fans 124 to circulate air within the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the recirculation system is located outside the enclosed space. For example, in some embodiments, the enclosed space is a room in a building, and the recirculation system is part of the building ventilation-located outside the room but fluidly coupled to it.

[0026] In some embodiments, the enclosure 102 includes baffles 126. In some embodiments, the baffles 126 include HEPA filters 128 and / or UV lights 130. Similar to the recirculation system 118, in some embodiments, the baffles 126 use HEPA filters 128 to filter air from the enclosure 102 and / or use UV lights 130 to kill any bacteria / viruses in the air. In some embodiments, the baffles 126 also include one or more fans 132. In some embodiments, the baffles 126 use the one or more fans 132 to pull air out of the enclosure 102. In some embodiments, the baffles 126 use the one or more fans 132 to pull air from outside the enclosure 102 into the enclosure 102. For example, if the air outside the enclosure is more humid than the air inside the enclosure, the fans can draw air from outside the enclosure to increase the humidity inside the enclosure.

[0027] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a humidifier / dehumidifier 134. In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is a humidifier (e.g., a cool mist humidifier, a warm mist humidifier, an ultrasonic humidifier, an evaporative humidifier, or a vaporizer). In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is a dehumidifier (e.g., a heat pump dehumidifier, a dehumidifying ventilator, or a desiccant dehumidifier). In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 includes one or more devices capable of increasing and decreasing the humidity (e.g., humidity ratio) of the enclosed space 102. Figure 1 , the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is depicted as being separate from the HVAC system 106. However, in some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is part of the HVAC system 106.

[0028] In some embodiments, the enclosure 102 includes a controller 136. In some embodiments, the controller 136 is wirelessly or electrically coupled to one or more of the HVAC system 106, the recirculation system 118, the damper 126, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134, and the one or more sensors 138. In some embodiments, the controller operates automatically without any human intervention (e.g., executing the method 400 in the flowchart). In some embodiments (e.g., without sensors), the user can manually turn on the system. For more information on the operation of the example controller, see Figure 3 and its related paragraphs.

[0029] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes one or more sensors 138. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 include a proximity sensor, a thermal sensor, an optical sensor (e.g., a camera), or a motion sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 are configured to detect whether a creature has entered the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 include a dry-bulb thermometer, a wet-bulb thermometer, a capacitive humidity sensor, a resistive humidity sensor, a thermal humidity sensor, a barometer, or a pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 detect the humidity of the enclosed space 102 (e.g., absolute humidity, relative humidity, or humidity ratio), or detect an indicator from which the humidity of the enclosed space 102 can be calculated.

[0030] Figure 2 is an HVAC system 200 (e.g. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an HVAC system 106 is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the HVAC system 200 includes a compressor 208, a condenser 204, an evaporator 214, a first stop valve 222, and a second stop valve 212. The compressor 208, the condenser 204, the evaporator 214, and the first stop valve 222 and the second stop valve 212 are fluidly connected through a refrigerant line 202 (e.g., refrigerant line 202-1, refrigerant line 202-2, etc.) to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0031] In some embodiments, compressor 208 is powered by the vehicle engine. In some embodiments, compressor 208 is powered by power source 206 (eg, a battery or a power cord).

[0032] The condenser 204 is used to condense the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 208. Figure 2 As shown, the condenser 204 is located downstream of the compressor 208. As used herein, the term "downstream" refers to a position along the flow direction of the refrigerant line. Similarly, the term "upstream" refers to a position along the refrigerant line opposite to the flow direction of the refrigerant. For example, Figure 2 The condenser 204 is shown downstream of the compressor 208 and upstream of the evaporator 214 , with the refrigerant flow direction indicated by the arrows on the refrigerant line 202 .

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, the evaporator 214 is located downstream of the condenser 204 and is fluidly connected to the condenser 204 through the refrigerant lines 202-1 and 202-4. The evaporator 214 is used to evaporate the condensed refrigerant. The first stop valve 222 is installed at the refrigerant inlet of the evaporator 214, and the second stop valve 212 is installed at the refrigerant outlet of the evaporator 214.

[0034] As used herein, the term "refrigerant inlet" refers to the inlet of the corresponding evaporator and a portion of the refrigerant line upstream of the corresponding evaporator. As used herein, the term "refrigerant outlet" refers to the outlet of the corresponding evaporator and a portion of the refrigerant line downstream of the corresponding evaporator. For example, the refrigerant inlet of the evaporator 214 refers to the inlet of the evaporator 214 and a portion of the refrigerant line 202-4 upstream of the evaporator 214. The refrigerant outlet of the evaporator 214 refers to the outlet of the evaporator 214 and a portion of the refrigerant line 202-3 downstream of the evaporator 214.

[0035] In some embodiments, the evaporator 214 is connected to the closed space (eg Figure 1 The term "thermally connected" as used herein means one or more of the following: (i) the corresponding evaporator is installed in the corresponding space to exchange heat with the space or the air in the space; and (ii) the corresponding evaporator is coupled to a device (e.g., a heat exchanger or a blower) that introduces conditioned air into the space.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 includes a sensor 218 and a controller 224 electrically connected to the sensor 218. In some embodiments, the sensor 218 is electrically connected to the controller 224. Figure 1 The at least one sensor 138 in the controller 224 is the same. In some embodiments, the controller 224 is a smart generation management controller described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0131408 and U.S. Patent Nos. 7,591,143 and 8,453,722, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] The sensor 218 is configured to perform one or more of the following: (i) measure the temperature of the evaporator 214; and (ii) measure the air flow through the evaporator 214. When the measured temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature or the measured air flow through the evaporator 214 is less than a predetermined amount (e.g., 75 CFM), or both, the controller 224 automatically closes or sends an instruction to close the first stop valve 222 and the second stop valve 212. When the measured temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature or when the measured air flow through the evaporator 214 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the controller 224 automatically opens or sends an instruction to open the first stop valve 222 and the second stop valve 212. In some embodiments, the controller 224 is electrically connected to one or more other components in the HVAC system. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 224 is electrically connected to the compressor 208 to automatically control the operation of the compressor based on the ambient temperature, the cooling demand of the space, or other parameters.

[0038] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a control valve to selectively restrict or allow refrigerant flow to the compressor. As an example, Figure 2 An HVAC system 200 is shown having a flow control valve 210. The flow control valve 210 is disposed at the refrigerant line 202-3 upstream of the compressor 208 and is configured to selectively restrict or allow refrigerant flow to the compressor 208. In some embodiments, operation of the flow control valve 210 is automatically controlled by a controller 224.

[0039] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a metering device to control the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator 214. As an example, Figure 2 An HVAC system 200 is shown having a metering device 220. The metering device 220 is disposed at the refrigerant line 202-4 between the first shut-off valve 222 and the evaporator 214 and is configured to control the flow rate of the refrigerant entering the evaporator 214. In some embodiments, the metering device 220 is a thermal expansion valve. In some embodiments, the operation of the metering device 220 is automatically controlled by a controller 224.

[0040] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a receiver / dryer 228. The receiver / dryer 228 is disposed at the refrigerant lines 202-1, 202-4 between the condenser 204 and the evaporator 214. The receiver / dryer 228 is configured to temporarily store the refrigerant, absorb moisture in the refrigerant, or both.

[0041] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes one or more blowers and / or one or more fans to enhance the performance of some components in the HVAC system 200. As an example, Figure 2 An HVAC system 200 is shown having a blower 216 and a fan 226. The blower 216 is located near the first evaporator 214 and is configured to blow air through the evaporator 214. The air is cooled when passing through the evaporator 214 and can be introduced into the space for cooling purposes. The fan 226 is located near the condenser 204 and is configured to blow air through the condenser 204 to cool it. When the air passes through the condenser 204, the air takes away the heat of the condenser 204, thereby improving the performance of the condenser 204.

[0042] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a controller 300 (eg, Figure 1 Controller 136 or Figure 2248 in FIG. 24. In some embodiments, the controller 300 includes one or more central processing units (CPUs) 302, one or more network communication interfaces 316, a memory 320, and one or more communication buses 344 for connecting these components. In some embodiments, the controller 300 includes a user interface 310, which may include a display 312 or an input device 314.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to one or more sensors 304, such as Figure 1 One or more sensors 138 or Figure 2 In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to the baffle 306, for example Figure 1 In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to a humidity controller 308, which may include a humidifier and / or a dehumidifier, such as Figure 1 In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to a recirculation system 311, such as Figure 1 The recirculation system 118. In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to an HVAC system, such as Figure 1 HVAC system in 106 or Figure 2 The HVAC system 200 in.

[0044] The network communication interface 316 includes, for example, hardware capable of communicating data using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) and / or any of a variety of custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols that have not been developed as of the date of filing of this document.

[0045] In some embodiments, memory 320 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR SRAM, or other random access solid-state memory devices. In some embodiments, memory 320 includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid-state storage devices. In some embodiments, memory 320 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, memory 320 or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of memory 320 stores the following programs, modules, and data structures or a subset or superset thereof: (1) an operating system 322 for handling various system services and performing hardware-related tasks; (2) a communication module 324 for coupling to and communicating with other network devices via one or more networks (e.g., in conjunction with a network communication interface 316); (3) a user interface module 326 for receiving input from a user and displaying information to a user; (4) a sensor module 328 for monitoring and collecting data from various sensors, such as Figure 1 One or more sensors 138 or Figure 2 Sensor 218; (5) humidity control module 330, used to increase, decrease or maintain the space, such as Figure 1 and (6) an HVAC system control module 332 for operating the HVAC system 318.

[0046] In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives and receives data from one or more sensors (e.g. Figure 1 One or more sensors 138 or Figure 2 In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data corresponding to the measurement of the closed space, such as Figure 1 In some embodiments, when the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is equal to, higher than, or lower than a threshold value (e.g., Figure 4 In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 generates an alarm or sets a flag when the humidity ratio of the enclosure is equal to, above, or below the threshold value. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 sends a signal to the humidity control module 330 when the humidity ratio of the enclosure is equal to, above, or below the threshold value. In some embodiments, the signal from the sensor module 328 to the humidity control module 330 indicates that the humidity control module 330 should increase, decrease, or maintain the humidity ratio of the enclosure.

[0047] In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives and receives data from one or more sensors (e.g. Figure 1 One or more sensors 138 or Figure 2In some embodiments, sensor module 328 receives data that indicates that a creature may be approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space (e.g., Figure 1 For example, in some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data from one or more sensors and uses the data to determine whether a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In some embodiments, when the sensor module 328 determines that a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space, it generates an alarm or sets a flag. In some embodiments, when the sensor module 328 determines that a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space, it initiates a method, such as Figure 4 Method 400 in .

[0048] In some embodiments, humidity control module 330 receives input from sensor module 328. In some embodiments, the signal from sensor module 328 includes increasing, decreasing, or maintaining humidity in the enclosure (e.g., Figure 1 In some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 increases the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, for example by initiating Figure 4 In some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 reduces the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, for example by stopping or reversing the humidity control module 330. Figure 4 Any of steps 414, 416, 418, 420 and 422 in the above embodiment. And in some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 maintains the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, for example, by intermittently executing Figure 4 Any of steps 414, 416, 418, 420 and 422 in.

[0049] Each of the above elements corresponds to a set of instructions for performing the functions described herein. The above modules or programs (i.e., instruction sets) do not need to be implemented as separate software programs, processes, or modules, so various subsets of these modules can be combined or otherwise rearranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, memory 320 optionally stores a subset of the modules and data structures determined above. In some embodiments, memory 320 stores additional modules and data structures not described above.

[0050] Figure 4 It is used to reduce the size of enclosed spaces (such as Figure 1 Flowchart of a method 400 for virus transmission in an enclosed space 102). Figure 1 In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 is Figure 4The enclosed space in question is the interior of a vehicle, such as the cab of a truck, airplane, ship, or train. Likewise, in some embodiments, the enclosed space is the interior of a building, such as a room in a home, a classroom in a school, an auditorium in a theater, or a floor in an office building. In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 is the entire interior of a vehicle (e.g., the cabin of an airplane, the cockpit, etc.) or a building (e.g., every room in a home). Figure 4 The viruses in question are any known or yet to be discovered humidity-sensitive virus (e.g., able to be killed by high or low humidity), including influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and SARS-CoV-2 virus.

[0051] In some embodiments, it is determined (402) whether a creature has entered the enclosed space. For example, in some embodiments, one or more sensors (e.g. Figure 1 One or more sensors 138 or Figure 3 Sensor 304 in (e.g., sensor 304 in) is used to detect the organism entering the space. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method includes determining whether the organism is approaching the enclosed space or occupying the enclosed space. For example, in some embodiments, the method includes receiving a signal (e.g., a message, a WiFi connection, a Bluetooth connection, GPS data) from an electronic device of a user (e.g., a smartphone, a laptop, an identification badge) indicating that the organism is approaching or occupying the enclosed space. As another example, in some embodiments, the method includes using artificial intelligence (e.g., computer vision) to interpret data collected by the camera to determine whether the organism is approaching or occupying the enclosed space.

[0052] First determining whether an organism is approaching, entering or occupying the enclosed space helps to effectively reduce the spread of the virus. For example, if the enclosed space is empty (i.e., there are no organisms in the enclosed space), the risk of virus transmission between organisms in the enclosed space is zero. Similarly, if there is only one organism in the enclosed space, there is no risk of virus transmission between organisms in the enclosed space. However, if, for example, there is already an organism in the enclosed space and another organism enters the enclosed space, there may be a risk of virus transmission between the two organisms. Therefore, in some embodiments, it is first determined whether there is an organism approaching, entering or occupying the enclosed space to determine whether there is a risk of virus transmission.

[0053] Generally speaking, "organism" refers to animals (e.g., humans), plants, fungi, protists, and bacteria. However, in some embodiments, the determination of whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space includes screening for certain types of organisms. For example, in some embodiments, the determination includes determining whether a human is approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space. As another example, in some embodiments, the determination includes filtering animals (i.e., non-human animals). As another example, in some embodiments, the determination includes determining whether a plant is approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space. In some embodiments, determining whether a particular type of organism is approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space includes using artificial intelligence (e.g., computer vision) to screen for that particular type of organism.

[0054] In some embodiments, if it is determined (402-N) that a creature is not approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space, the method loops to continue determining (402) whether a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In other words, determination (402) is repeated until it is determined (402-Y) that a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the method includes continuing to determine (402) whether a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space even after determining that a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space (e.g., concurrently with other steps of method 400).

[0055] Once it is determined (402-Y) that a living being is approaching, entering, or is located in the enclosure (or in certain embodiments that do not include first determining whether a living being has entered the enclosure), the method includes determining (404) a humidity ratio (H) of the enclosure. R ). In other embodiments, the method includes determining the relative humidity of the space, the absolute humidity of the space, or the humidity ratio of the space.

[0056] In other embodiments, other humidity measurements such as relative humidity, absolute humidity, or specific humidity are used instead of humidity ratio.

[0057] As described above, for some viruses, humidity is related to the transmission rate of the virus. For example, it is known that the transmission rate of influenza is reduced in a high humidity environment. Therefore, in some embodiments, the humidity ratio (H) of the enclosed space is determined. R ) can help determine if humidity should be increased to reduce the virus's transmission rate in an enclosed space. Similarly, determining other humidity indicators such as absolute humidity, relative humidity, humidity ratio, etc. mentioned above may also help establish a baseline for predicting the virus's transmission rate and determine if humidity should be increased.

[0058] In some embodiments, the humidity ratio (H) of the enclosed space is determined. R) includes detecting (406) the humidity ratio using a sensor capable of detecting the humidity ratio. In some embodiments, the determining includes detecting (408) other indicators that can be used to calculate the humidity ratio. For example, in some embodiments, the other indicators include at least two of dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature, absolute humidity, relative humidity, air pressure, vapor pressure, air volume, enthalpy, mass of water in the wet air sample, and total mass of the wet air sample. Those skilled in the art will understand how to calculate the humidity ratio based on these indicators. For example, in some embodiments, a psychrometric chart is used to calculate the humidity ratio. For a brief discussion of psychrometric charts as they relate to embodiments of the present invention, see Figures 5A-5E .

[0059] As another example, in some embodiments, the humidity ratio is calculated using the following formula:

[0060]

[0061] Where W is the humidity ratio, m w is the mass of water vapor in the moist air sample, m a is the mass of air in the moist air sample, p w is the partial pressure of water vapor in the moist air sample, p a is the atmospheric pressure of the moist air sample.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method includes determining (410) whether the humidity ratio of the enclosure is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is based on the minimum humidity ratio that reduces the half-life of the virus by a predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is based on a minimum humidity ratio that reduces the virus transmission rate by a predetermined amount.

[0063] In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is within a comfort zone, such as an ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, an EN 15251 comfort zone, or a Givoni-Milne bioclimatic diagram comfort zone. In other words, in some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) falls within the region of temperature and humidity that defines human comfort (e.g., not too hot, too cold, too humid, or too dry) (e.g., 68 degrees Fahrenheit and 50% RH calculates to a humidity ratio of approximately 0.0073 (pounds of moisture) / (pounds of dry air) and has a high transmission rate potential).

[0064] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN) slightly outside the comfort zone (e.g., 1%, 2%, or 5% outside the comfort zone). For example, if reducing the rate of viral transmission is particularly important, the humidity ratio may be increased outside the comfort zone. In some embodiments, this may mean that the temperature and / or humidity of the enclosure is slightly uncomfortable for a limited time to reduce the possibility of viral transmission from one organism in the enclosure to another organism in the enclosure.

[0065] In some embodiments, if it is determined (410-Y) that the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), then increasing (412) the humidity ratio. For example, in some embodiments, increasing the humidity ratio includes one or more of: operating (414) a humidifier; disabling (416) a dehumidifier; introducing (418) air from outside the enclosure into the enclosure; maintaining (420) a coil temperature above a dew point; and disabling (422) a compressor. In some embodiments, if it is determined (410-Y) that the humidity ratio of the enclosure is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), the method loop continues to increase (412) the humidity ratio of the enclosed space until it is determined (410-N) that the humidity ratio is not less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ).

[0066] In some embodiments, once it is determined (410-N) that the humidity ratio of the enclosure is not less than (ie, greater than and / or equal to) a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), a timer (424) is set. In some embodiments, the timer is a countdown timer. In some embodiments, the duration of the timer is based on the half-life of the virus at a humidity ratio associated with the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the duration of the timer is based on the transmission rate of the virus at a humidity ratio associated with the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0067] In some embodiments, once it is determined (410-N) that the humidity ratio of the enclosure is not less than (ie, greater than and / or equal to) a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), the humidity ratio is increased (not shown) until a maximum humidity ratio threshold is reached or exceeded. In some embodiments, after the humidity ratio reaches the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is maintained for a predetermined amount of time. In other embodiments, after the humidity ratio reaches the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the method loops again (402) to determine whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space.

[0068] In some embodiments, it is determined (426) whether the humidity ratio of the enclosure is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold. In other embodiments, it is determined (426) whether the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold plus some buffer (Hx). Additionally, in some embodiments, it is determined (not shown) whether the humidity ratio is greater than a maximum humidity ratio threshold. If it is determined that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is decreased.

[0069] In some embodiments, a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is used to maintain (not shown) the humidity ratio above a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) for a predetermined time. In some embodiments, the PID controller is also used to maintain (not shown) the humidity ratio below a maximum humidity ratio threshold for a predetermined amount of time. In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of time is based on the half-life of the virus, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), maximum humidity ratio threshold, size of the enclosure, prevalence of the virus, number of organisms in the enclosure, and / or proximity between organisms.

[0070] The humidity ratio (H R ) is important for keeping the climate of an enclosed space comfortable for the organisms living in it. R ) can also help avoid problems associated with particularly humid climates, such as mold. However, in some embodiments, such as during a global pandemic, when reducing viral transmission rates is critical, the humidity ratio (H R ) may be increased (or decreased, where applicable) outside the boundaries of the comfort zone to further reduce viral transmission rates.

[0071] In some embodiments, if it is determined (426-Y) that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold and / or the sum of the minimum humidity ratio threshold (HMIN) and the buffer amount (Hx), the humidity ratio is increased (428). In some embodiments, increasing the humidity ratio includes, for example, any of the steps described above with respect to step 412.

[0072] In some embodiments, if it is determined (426-N) that the humidity ratio is not less than (i.e., greater than or equal to) a minimum humidity ratio threshold and / or the sum of a minimum humidity ratio threshold (HMI) and a buffer amount (Hx), the method includes determining (430) whether a timer has expired.

[0073] If it is determined (430-N) that the timer has not timed out, then in some embodiments, the method includes re-determining (426) whether the humidity ratio is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold. Likewise, in other embodiments, if it is determined (430-N) that the timer has not timed out, then the method includes re-determining (426) whether the humidity ratio is less than the sum of the minimum humidity ratio threshold and the buffer amount.

[0074] In some embodiments, if it is determined (430-Y) that the timer has expired, it is determined (402) whether a creature is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. Alternatively, in some embodiments, after it is determined (430-Y) that the timer has expired, a humidity ratio (404) of the enclosed space is determined.

[0075] Figures 5A-5E are example psychrometric charts, some of which include symbols that demonstrate certain aspects of the described embodiments. A psychrometric chart is a graph of the thermodynamic parameters of air. For example, Figure 5A The illustrated psychrometric chart 500 depicts relative humidity, dry bulb temperature, specific volume, specific enthalpy, wet bulb temperature, humidity ratio, and dew point temperature. One skilled in the art will understand how to read a psychrometric chart, such as psychrometric chart 500. Nevertheless, Figure 5B Again, the interrelationships of the various parameters represented in the psychrometric diagram 500 are briefly described.

[0076] Figure 5B Included are lines representing six parameters shown in psychrometric chart 500. First, line 502 represents relative humidity. Second, line 504 represents dry bulb temperature. Third, line 506 represents specific volume. Fourth, line 508 represents specific enthalpy. Fifth, line 510 represents wet bulb temperature. Sixth, line 512 represents humidity ratio.

[0077] The intersection of lines 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, and 512 illustrates the utility of psychrometric chart 500: it allows some metrics to be calculated based on at least two other metrics being known. For example, based on a measured relative humidity of 60% and a measured dry bulb temperature of 22°C, someone could use psychrometric chart 500 to determine the humidity ratio. They would first find the intersection of the line representing 60% relative humidity (i.e., line 502) and the line representing a dry bulb temperature of 22°C (i.e., line 504). They would then trace the intersection of these two lines to the right (i.e., along line 512) to determine that the humidity ratio is 0.010 grams of water per gram of dry air.

[0078] Figure 5C An example comfort zone 520 is included. Comfort zone 520 represents the range of temperature and humidity that most people find comfortable. For example, a dry bulb temperature of 22°C (71.6°F) and a relative humidity of 50% would fall within comfort zone 520. In other words, most people would consider a room maintained at a dry bulb temperature of 22°C and a relative humidity of 50% to be comfortable - assuming, of course, that the depicted comfort zone 520 accurately represents the conditions that most people would find comfortable.

[0079] Depicted comfort zone 520 is an ellipse that ranges from 20 to 25°C dry bulb temperature, and from 20 to 80% relative humidity. However, comfort zone 520 is merely an example of a comfort zone. For purposes of the present invention, in some embodiments, a comfort zone is a comfort zone other than depicted comfort zone 520. For example, the comfort zone may be a standard comfort zone, such as an ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, an EN 15251 comfort zone, or a Givoni-Milne bioclimatic diagram comfort zone.

[0080] Figure 5D Five transmission zones are included, representing different degrees of virus transmission. Similar to comfort zone 520, transmission zones 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 are shown for illustration purposes only. "Transmission zones" or similar terms mentioned elsewhere in this specification may refer to Figure 5D In addition, in some embodiments, the propagation zone will vary depending on the respective virus. For example, for a first virus, the zero propagation zone 538 may only exist at extremely high humidity; however, for a second virus, the zero propagation zone 538 may exist at medium to high levels of humidity.

[0081] That is, transmission zones 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 are divided by horizontal lines corresponding to various humidity ratios. As described elsewhere in the specification, the transmission rate of some viruses decreases as humidity increases. Therefore, Figure 5D The five transmission zones shown in represent different levels of risk of virus transmission. For example, transmission zone 530 represents a high risk transmission zone. At the humidity of transmission zone 530, the transmission rate of the virus is extremely high (for example, 68F, 25% RH, zone 1, associated with a humidity ratio of 0.0036 (pounds of moisture) / (pounds of dry air) and a transmission probability of 80-100%). Transmission zone 532 represents a medium risk transmission zone. The transmission rate in this area is slightly lower than the transmission rate in zone 530. Transmission zone 534 represents a stable area. Transmission zone 536 represents a low risk area. And transmission zone 538 represents a zero transmission zone. The risk of virus transmission in this area is zero, or very close to zero.

[0082] Figure 5E include Figure 5C The comfort zone is 520, and Figure 5D The propagation zones 530, 532, 534, 536 and 538 are shown in FIG. Figure 5E As shown, comfort zone 520 intersects with a plurality of propagation zones, including propagation zone 530, propagation zone 532, and propagation zone 534. Figure 5C As described above, a comfortable climate is defined by the boundaries of comfort zone 520. Also, as described above with respect to Figure 5DAs described, the risk of virus transmission is reduced in higher areas. Therefore, the present invention aims to maintain a high humidity ratio (ie, to stay in the lowest risk transmission zone as much as possible) while also staying in the comfort zone 520.

[0083] Example aspects

[0084] Several example aspects will now be briefly described.

[0085] (A1) According to some embodiments, a method of reducing transmission within a space is provided. The method includes providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold that reduces transmission of a particular virus. The method also includes determining a humidity ratio of an enclosed space suitable for receiving an organism, and in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold, increasing the humidity ratio until the humidity ratio in the enclosed space is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0086] (A2) In some embodiments of A1, the minimum humidity ratio threshold comprises a minimum humidity ratio that reduces the half-life of the virus.

[0087] (A3) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A2, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is within the comfort zone.

[0088] (A4) In some embodiments of any of A1-A3, the comfort zone comprises one of: an ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone; an EN 15251 comfort zone; or a Givoni-Milne bioclimatic diagram comfort zone.

[0089] (A5) In some embodiments of any of A1-A4, the virus is influenza A virus.

[0090] (A6) In some embodiments of A5, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

[0091] (A7) In some embodiments of any of A1-A6, the virus is SARS-CoV-2.

[0092] (A8) In some embodiments of A7, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

[0093] (A9) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A8, determining the humidity ratio includes using a sensor to detect the humidity ratio.

[0094] (A10) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A9, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting at least two of the following indicators: the dry-bulb temperature of the space, the wet-bulb temperature of the space, the absolute humidity of the space, the relative humidity of the space, the air pressure of the space, the vapor pressure of the space, the volume of air in the space, and the enthalpy of air in the space; and calculating the humidity ratio based on the at least two detected indicators.

[0095] (A11) In some embodiments of any of A1-A10, the enclosed space includes the interior of a vehicle.

[0096] (A12) In some embodiments of any of A1-A10, the enclosed space includes a room.

[0097] (A13) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A12, the organism is a human.

[0098] (A14) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A13, increasing the humidity ratio includes at least one of: running a humidifier; disabling a dehumidifier; introducing air from outside the space into the space; maintaining the temperature of the coil above the dew point of the space; and disabling the compressor.

[0099] (A15) In some embodiments of any of A1-A14, the method further includes detecting organisms entering the space before increasing the humidity ratio.

[0100] (A16) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A15, the method further includes maintaining the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0101] (A17) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A16, the method further includes maintaining the humidity ratio between a minimum humidity ratio threshold and a maximum humidity ratio threshold after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0102] (A18) In some embodiments of A17, the maximum humidity ratio threshold is within the comfort zone.

[0103] (A19) In some embodiments of any one of A16-A18, maintaining the humidity ratio includes maintaining the humidity ratio for a predetermined amount of time.

[0104] (A20) In some embodiments of A19, the predetermined amount of time is based on the half-life of the virus at a minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0105] (A21) In some embodiments of any one of A1-A20, the method further includes reducing the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is greater than a maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0106] (B1) According to some embodiments, a system for reducing the spread of viruses in a space is provided. The system (e.g., Figure 1 and 2 The system includes one or more sensors and a controller electrically connected to the one or more sensors. The controller is configured to execute any one of the methods A1-A21.

[0107] (C1) According to some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by a system (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 When executed by one or more processors of a system), the one or more processors execute any method in Al-A21.

[0108] It should be understood that although the terms "first", "second", etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. The terms used herein are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the claims. In the description of the embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" refer to and also include plural forms, unless the context clearly states otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more related listed items. It should also be understood that when the terms "including" and / or "comprising" are used in this specification, the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components is specified, but the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof is not excluded.

[0109] As used herein, the term "if" may be interpreted as "when" or "in response to determining" or "upon determining" or "in response to detecting" the precondition is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "if it is determined that [a specified precondition is true]" or "if [the specified precondition is true]" or "when [the specified precondition is true]" may be interpreted as "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon determining" or "upon detecting" or "in response to detecting" the specified precondition is true, depending on the context.

Claims

1. A method for reducing the spread of a virus in a space, comprising: Providing minimum humidity ratio thresholds that reduce the spread of specific viruses; Determine humidity ratios appropriate for enclosures receiving organisms; and In response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is increased until the humidity ratio within the enclosure is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The minimum humidity ratio threshold comprises a minimum humidity ratio that reduces the half-life of the virus.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The minimum humidity ratio threshold is within the comfort zone.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein: The comfort zone comprises one of the following: an ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone; an EN15251 comfort zone; or a Givoni-Milne bioclimatic diagram comfort zone.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein: The virus is influenza A virus.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein: The minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The virus is SARS-CoV-2.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein: The minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining the humidity ratio includes detecting the humidity ratio using a sensor.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining the humidity ratio includes: Detect at least two of the following indicators: dry bulb temperature of the space, wet bulb temperature of the space, absolute humidity of the space, relative humidity of the space, air pressure of the space, vapor pressure of the space, volume of air in the space, and enthalpy of air in the space; and The humidity ratio is calculated based on at least two detected indicators.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The enclosed space includes the interior of a vehicle.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The enclosed space includes a room.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The organism is a human.

14. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Increasing the humidity ratio includes at least one of: operating a humidifier; disabling a dehumidifier; introducing air from outside the space into the space; maintaining a temperature of the coil above a dew point of the space; and disabling a compressor.

15. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Prior to increasing the humidity ratio, organisms entering the space are detected.

16. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is maintained.

17. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is maintained between the minimum humidity ratio threshold and the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein: The maximum humidity ratio threshold is within the comfort zone.

19. The method of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein Maintaining the humidity ratio includes maintaining the humidity ratio for a predetermined amount of time.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein: The predetermined amount of time is based on the half-life of the virus at the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

21. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After determining that the humidity ratio is greater than a maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is decreased.

22. A system for reducing the spread of a virus in a space, comprising: one or more sensors; A controller electrically connected to the one or more sensors, wherein the controller is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-21.

23. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method of any one of claims 1-21.

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