System and method for monitoring and controlling air quality in enclosed space

Abstract

A system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space (S) includes a controller (11), a sensor (12) to monitor environmental parameters within the enclosed space (S), an airflow distribution balancer (14) to receive an external airflow from outside the enclosed space and an internal airflow from within the enclosed space, an airflow generator (16) to generate the external airflow, the controller (11) and the sensor (12) being in operable communication. The controller (11) is configured to receive an input signal from the sensor (12), the controller (11) being configured to generate an output signal in response to the input signal, the output signal being sent to the airflow distribution balancer (14) and / or the airflow generator (16), the air flow distribution balancer (14) and / or the air flow generator (16) are arranged to control the operation of the air flow distribution balancer (14) and / or the air flow generator (16) by adjusting the volume of outside air and / or inside air delivered to the enclosed space (S), respectively, so as to control one or more environmental parameters relating to the quality of air within the enclosed space (S).

Description

[0001] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprising" and its variations such as "comprises", "comprising" and "comprised of" shall be understood to imply the presence of the stated integer or group of integers but not to exclude the presence of any other integer or group of integers.

[0002] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "containing" and its variations such as "contains", "containing" and "contained of" shall be understood to imply the presence of the stated integer or group of integers but not to exclude the presence of any other integer or group of integers.

[0003] The headings and subheadings in this specification are provided for the convenience of the reader and shall not be construed as limiting the scope disclosed in the specification, claims, abstract or drawings. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a system and method for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space. In particular, the present invention monitors and controls one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality in the enclosed space by controlling the air flow into the enclosed space, thereby controlling the air quality in the enclosed space.

[0005] The enclosed space can be, for example, a chamber or compartment. Examples of environmental parameters in the enclosed space that can be controlled include dust pollutant levels and levels of undesirable gases such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and / or sulfur dioxide (CO 2 , H 2 S and / or SO 2 ).

[0006] In addition, the present invention relates to an air flow distribution balancer. The air flow distribution balancer can be used in the system of the present invention, that is, a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space. Background Art

[0007] Any discussion of background art contained in this specification, any citation of documents, and any reference to known or well-known information are provided solely for the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the background art of the present invention and do not in themselves admit or acknowledge that any of the said materials form part of the common general knowledge in Australia or any other country as of the priority date of the application to which this specification relates.

[0008] A general requirement for HVAC systems is to strive to control the air circulation in the enclosed space in which they are intended to be used. Existing facilities can, for example, employ various valve designs, system configurations and control systems, taking into account the pressure in the enclosed space, CO 2(carbon dioxide) or dust levels and controls the operation of the components in response to such levels. However, existing systems are designed to conform to the specific applications for which a particular system is targeted. Except for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) systems, such systems are not necessarily capable of being integrated as aftermarket accessories into existing HVAC systems. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air flow distribution balancer. The air flow distribution balancer can be a component of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space.

[0011] Thus, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space, the system comprising:

[0012] a controller;

[0013] one or more sensors for monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space;

[0014] at least one air flow distribution balancer for receiving a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space and a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space;

[0015] an air flow generator for generating at least the first air flow of external air,

[0016] wherein the controller and the one or more sensors are operably communicable such that in use, the controller is configured to receive one or more input signals from the one or more sensors and the controller is configured to generate one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals, the one or more output signals being sent to at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator to respectively control the operation of at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator by adjusting at least one of the volume of external air and the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality within the enclosed space.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes at least one inlet for allowing air to enter the air flow distribution balancer as an inlet air flow and an outlet for allowing air to leave the air flow distribution balancer as an outlet air flow.

[0018] The air flow distribution balancer described herein includes a chamber for receiving air entering the air flow distribution balancer via the at least one inlet.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes at least one door that is movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. In use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in the intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open, respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and out of the outlet.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer further includes at least one motor, wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor is capable of operating to move the at least one door.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the at least one motor is capable of operating to move the at least one door in response to a signal received from the controller.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet. The first inlet and the second inlet each receive an inlet air flow. The first inlet receives a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space, and the second inlet receives a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space. The outlet air flow exits the air flow distribution balancer through the outlet.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, as previously described herein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors that are movable to a selected position.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first motor and a second motor, and wherein the respective doors and the first motor and the second motor are operably connected such that the first motor and the second motor are capable of operating to move the respective doors.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the system includes a first air flow distribution balancer for receiving the first air flow of the external air and a second air flow distribution balancer for receiving the second air flow of the internal air.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes a first bypass valve to allow a portion of the air from the enclosed space to return to the enclosed space rather than enter the second air stream.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes a first filter to filter the air before the portion of the air returns to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes a second bypass valve to direct a portion of the air in the outlet air stream into the enclosed space.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes a second filter to filter the air before the portion of the air is directed into the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

[0030] The air flow generator is positioned such that it can draw air from at least outside the enclosed space and direct the air into the enclosed space.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the air flow generator is located outside the enclosed space. In one or more other embodiments, the air flow generator is located inside the enclosed space.

[0032] The air passing through the air flow generator is directed into the enclosed space. The system further includes ducts for allowing the air flow to pass through the system.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the air flow generator includes an air booster. In one or more other embodiments, the air flow generator includes a blower. Depending on the specific application of the system, the air flow generator can be in the form of an air booster or a blower. In one or more embodiments, the blower is provided as a high-capacity blower.

[0034] The one or more sensors can include one or more of the following sensors: at least one pressure sensor for sensing the pressure inside and outside the enclosed space (i.e., differential pressure sensing) or the pressure inside the enclosed space; at least one dust sensor for sensing the presence of dirt or dust particles in the enclosed space; at least one CO 2 sensor for sensing the presence of CO 2 in the enclosed space; at least one air flow sensor for sensing the air flow; and / or at least one gas sensor.

[0035] In one or more embodiments of the system, the one or more sensors include at least one pressure sensor.

[0036] The at least one gas sensor includes one or more gas sensors to sense the presence of gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), and / or refrigerant gases such as R-1234YF.

[0037] The system may further include an air pre-cleaner to pre-clean the air before the air received from outside the enclosed space enters the at least one inlet of the air flow distribution balancer.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes at least one particulate filter to filter particulate material from at least a first air flow of the outside air.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the at least one particulate filter is provided as a separate filter.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the at least one particulate filter is disposed in the air booster.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the system further includes at least one activated carbon filter to filter undesirable gases from at least the first air flow and / or the outlet air flow. In one or more embodiments, the at least one particulate filter is disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air flow distribution balancer, which includes:

[0043] A housing having at least a first inlet and an outlet;

[0044] A chamber located inside the housing;

[0045] At least one door movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position,

[0046] wherein, in use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in the intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and exit from the outlet.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer further includes at least one motor, wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor is operable to move the at least one door.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, as previously described herein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors that are movable to selected positions.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first motor and a second motor, wherein the respective doors and the first motor and the second motor are operably connected such that the first motor and the second motor are operable to move the respective doors.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space, the method comprising:

[0052] Monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space;

[0053] Generating at least a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space by an air flow generator;

[0054] Receiving at at least one air flow distribution balancer the first air flow of external air and a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space;

[0055] Delivering the air from the at least one air flow distribution balancer to the enclosed space in the form of an outlet air flow;

[0056] Generating one or more input signals indicative of one or more environmental parameters in the enclosed space;

[0057] Generating one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals;

[0058] Sending the one or more output signals to at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator to control the operation of at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator by adjusting at least one of the volume of external air and the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality in the enclosed space.

[0059] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, receiving the first airflow of the external air and the second airflow of the internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one airflow distribution balancer includes receiving the first airflow of the external air and the second airflow of the internal air at a single airflow distribution balancer.

[0060] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, receiving the first airflow of the external air and the second airflow of the internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one airflow distribution balancer includes receiving the first airflow of the external air at a first airflow distribution balancer and receiving the second airflow of the internal air at a second airflow distribution balancer.

[0061] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, the method further includes returning a portion of the air from the enclosed space to the enclosed space via a first bypass valve without allowing the portion of the air to enter the second airflow.

[0062] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, the method further includes filtering the air before returning the portion of the air to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

[0063] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, the method further includes directing a portion of the air in the outlet airflow to the enclosed space via a second bypass valve.

[0064] In one or more embodiments of the method as described previously herein, the method further includes filtering the air before directing the portion of the air to the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

[0065] The "external air" received from outside the enclosed space is also referred to herein as "fresh air". The "internal air" received from inside the enclosed space is also referred to herein as "recirculated air". The "first airflow" of the external air received from outside the enclosed space is also referred to herein as "fresh airflow". The "second airflow" of the internal air received from inside the enclosed space is also referred to herein as "recirculated airflow". The inlet airflow of the airflow distribution balancer includes the first airflow and / or the second airflow.

[0066] Dirt or dust particles are also referred to herein as particulates or particulate material. Similarly, a dust sensor is also referred to herein as a particulate sensor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0068] Figure 1ASchematic diagram of the first embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space installed in a vehicle according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 1B Shows in Figure 1A Schematic diagram of the system shown including an additional separate filter;

[0070] Figure 2 Is installed with Figure 1A Perspective view of the interior of a vehicle compartment with the system shown installed;

[0071] Figure 3A Is Figure 2 Rear view of the compartment shown;

[0072] Figure 3B Is a cross-sectional view through a portion of the hood wall of the vehicle compartment shown, showing Figure 3A An embodiment of the differential pressure sensor of the system shown; Figure 1A Shown;

[0073] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the second embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the third embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the fourth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the fifth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the sixth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the seventh embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 10 Is with Figures 5 to 9 First cross-sectional view of the air return unit of the HVAC system for use with the systems of the third to seventh embodiments shown;

[0080] Figure 11 IsFigure 10 The second cross-sectional view of the air return unit shown;

[0081] Figure 12 is for Figures 1A to 11 The first perspective view of the first embodiment of the airflow distribution balancer in the system shown;

[0082] Figure 13 is Figure 12 The second perspective view of the airflow distribution balancer shown;

[0083] Figure 14 is Figure 12 The first internal view of the airflow distribution balancer shown, in which a part of the housing of the airflow distribution balancer is removed;

[0084] Figure 15 is Figure 12 The second internal view of the airflow distribution balancer shown, in which a part of the housing of the airflow distribution balancer is removed;

[0085] Figure 16 is Figure 12 The third internal view of the airflow distribution balancer shown, in which a part of the housing of the airflow distribution balancer is removed;

[0086] Figure 17 is Figure 12 The perspective view of the lower part of the airflow distribution balancer shown, showing the motor assembly and the motor housing;

[0087] Figure 18 is Figure 12 The perspective view of the motor assembly and the closing door of the airflow distribution balancer shown;

[0088] Figure 19 is Figure 18 The exploded view of the motor assembly and the closing door shown;

[0089] Figure 20 is for Figures 1A to 11 The perspective view of the second embodiment of the airflow distribution balancer in the embodiment of the system shown;

[0090] Figure 21 is for Figures 1A to 11 The first perspective view of the third embodiment of the airflow distribution balancer in the embodiment of the system shown;

[0091] Figure 22 is Figure 21 The first internal view of the airflow distribution balancer shown, in which a part of the housing of the airflow distribution balancer is removed;

[0092] Figure 23 is Figure 21 a second internal view of the air flow distribution balancer shown, in which a part of the housing of the air flow distribution balancer is removed;

[0093] Figure 24 is Figure 22 an exploded view of the air flow distribution balancer shown, in which the motor assembly and the motor housing are separated from the housing of the air flow distribution balancer;

[0094] Figure 25A and 25B 25C are flowcharts of the control system operation process, namely: "normal system operation" ( Figure 25A ); "calibration function operation" ( Figure 25B ); "air quality operation inspection operation" ( Figure 25C ); and "scrubbing mode operation" ( Figure 25D );

[0095] Figure 26 is a flowchart of the control system operation process for "cost function operation";

[0096] Figure 27 is a schematic diagram of an eighth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0097] Figure 28 is a perspective view of the upper rear part of a vehicle cabin in which the system shown in Figure 27 is installed;

[0098] Figure 29 shows a first sectional perspective view of the interior of a vehicle cabin in which the system shown in Figure 27 is installed;

[0099] Figure 30 shows a second sectional perspective view of the interior of a vehicle cabin in which the system shown in Figure 27 is installed;

[0100] Figure 31 shows a third sectional perspective view of the interior of a vehicle cabin in which the system shown in Figure 27 is installed;

[0101] Figure 32 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of an air flow distribution balancer in an embodiment of the system for Figures 27 to 31 shown according to another aspect of the present invention;

[0102] Figure 33 is a sectional perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an air return unit for the third to eighth embodiments of the system, showing an alternative embodiment of the filter;

[0103] Figure 34 is Figure 33 an exploded perspective view of the air return unit shown;

[0104] Figure 35 is a schematic view of a ninth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to one aspect of the present invention;

[0105] Figure 36 is a first view showing the airflow path through the components of the system shown when the bypass valve is closed; Figure 35 through the components of the system shown;

[0106] Figure 37 is a second view showing the airflow path through the components of the system shown when the bypass valve is open; Figure 35 through the components of the system shown;

[0107] Figure 38 is a schematic view of a tenth embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space according to one aspect of the present invention;

[0108] Figure 39 is a first view showing the airflow path through the components of the system shown when the bypass valve is closed; and Figure 38 through the components of the system shown;

[0109] Figure 40 is a second view showing the airflow path through the components of the system shown when the bypass valve is open; Figure 38 through the components of the system shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0110] The same reference numerals are used to denote the same or equivalent components and features in the embodiments described herein. Components and features described with reference to one or more embodiments are not described with reference to other embodiments described herein. It should be understood that the description of these components and features and their use and operation with reference to one or more such embodiments also applies to other embodiments.

[0111] System and Installation Overview

[0112] The embodiments described herein include embodiments of systems and methods for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space.

[0113] The enclosed space (in which air quality is monitored and controlled) can be a cabin or a compartment. The cabin can be, for example, the cabin of a vehicle. When the vehicle is in use, one or more operators of the vehicle can occupy the cabin, and / or equipment can be located in the cabin. For example, the compartment can be a compartment containing equipment (e.g., electronic equipment). However, the enclosed space can be a building (including a detachable building) or a room occupied by people and / or in which equipment is located.

[0114] The system can be provided to monitor and control the air quality in an enclosed space that is a retrofit facility. Alternatively, the system can be provided in the enclosed space when manufacturing an enclosed space or a product having the enclosed space (such as a vehicle). In another alternative, the system can be provided in the enclosed space as an upgrade to an existing system in the enclosed space.

[0115] In the described and illustrated embodiment, the enclosed space S is the interior of the cabin C of a vehicle. The vehicle and the cabin C do not form part of the present invention. The vehicle is typically a heavy equipment vehicle used, for example, in mines and construction sites. However, the system and method for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space are not limited to use with a vehicle. According to the present invention, the system and method can be used in any suitable enclosed space in which it is desired to monitor and control the air quality in the enclosed space. Such suitable enclosed spaces include, for example, buildings (including detachable buildings), rooms and compartments housing sensitive electrical or electronic components (such as servers). In addition, the system and method can be used to provide protection for the health and safety of an operator in the enclosed space, as well as for equipment in the enclosed space, or both.

[0116] Monitor one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality in the enclosed space S. Examples of one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality in the enclosed space S that can be monitored include: pressure; dust level; CO 2 level; levels of undesirable gases (such as SO 2 , H 2 S and / or refrigerant gases, such as R-1234YF); and air flow. (Refrigerant gases can be dangerous. Thus, if a refrigerant gas is sensed in the enclosed space S, this can indicate a leak in the air conditioning system of the vehicle, and appropriate investigative and remedial measures can be taken). The pressure monitored is the air pressure in the enclosed space S. However, the pressure can be the air pressure inside the enclosed space and the air pressure outside the enclosed space. Measuring the pressure inside the enclosed space S and the pressure outside the enclosed space S enables the calculation of a pressure difference. The pressure difference is the difference between the internal pressure and the external pressure (i.e., internal pressure - external pressure = pressure difference). It is desirable to maintain a positive pressure difference inside the enclosed space S (i.e., the internal pressure is greater than the external pressure).

[0117] Compartment C has a housing H that encloses a closed space S. The housing H is typically made of metal and glass. The housing H encloses the closed space S in a sealed manner (i.e., in a hermetic way) to reduce the ability of external pollutants in the outside air to enter the closed space S, that is, to isolate the closed space S from the external environment outside Compartment C. This includes providing seals at any openings and access points (such as doors and windows), thereby sealing (as much as possible in practice) the closed space S from the external environment. A seat (not shown) can be provided for the operator of the vehicle in the closed space S of the vehicle.

[0118] Compartment C includes operating and electrical equipment for operating and controlling the vehicle. This equipment typically includes an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system.

[0119] An OEM system (i.e., an OEM computer) can be included as part of this equipment. The equipment can include a VMS (Vehicle Monitoring System).

[0120] The HVAC system has an air outlet unit U and an air return unit N. Air is discharged from the air outlet unit U into the closed space S. Air from the closed space S enters the air return unit N for recirculation. The air outlet unit U is provided with a suitable blower (not shown in the figure) to discharge air into the closed space S. In some embodiments, the air return unit N is provided with a suitable blower B (such as Figure 10 and 11 the embodiment shown therein) to suck air from the closed space S into the air return unit N. A filter T is provided at the air return unit N. The filter T can be provided at the air inlet I of the air return unit N. To provide enhanced filtration, a fine particulate filter can be used as the filter T. The filter T can include, for example, a HEPA filter, a ULPA filter, an EPA filter, or other filters capable of filtering fine particulates.

[0121] Embodiments of the systems and methods described herein for monitoring and controlling air quality in a closed space monitor and control air quality by monitoring and controlling the airflow flowing into the closed space, thereby providing systems and methods for monitoring and controlling the airflow flowing into the closed space. The airflow being monitored and controlled is a first (or fresh) airflow and a second (or recirculated) airflow. As further described herein, embodiments of the system and method include a controller operatively communicating or operatively connected to one or more sensors and other components of the system and method. The controller receives input signals from one or more sensors and generates and sends output signals to other components of the system to regulate and control the operation of the other components.

[0122] System - First Embodiment

[0123] Figure 1AFIG. 0 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of a system 1 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space S installed in a vehicle having a cabin C. The cabin C is shown in Figure 2 and FIG. 3. The cabin C encloses a space that forms the enclosed space S.

[0124] The system 1 includes a controller 11, one or more sensors 12, an air flow distribution balancer 14, and an air flow generator 16. The one or more sensors 12 are capable of monitoring one or more environmental parameters within the enclosed space S. The one or more environmental parameters being monitored indicate the air quality in the enclosed space S. The controller 11 and the one or more sensors 12 are operably communicable such that the controller 11 is able to receive one or more input signals from the one or more sensors 12. This is represented by the dashed line extending between the controller 11 and the sensor 12 in Figure 1A . (The dashed lines extending between the controller 11 and the other components also represent the operative communication between the controller 11 and those other components). In response to the one or more input signals received by the controller 11 from the one or more sensors 12, the controller 11 is able to generate one or more output signals that are sent to the air flow distribution balancer 14 and / or the air flow generator 16 to control the operation of the air flow distribution balancer 14 and / or the air flow generator 16. This is represented by the dashed lines extending between the controller 11 and the air flow distribution balancer 14 and the air flow generator 16 in Figure 1A .

[0125] The one or more sensors 12 include at least one pressure sensor 18. The pressure sensor 18 can be a pressure sensor that senses the pressure inside and outside the enclosed space S or the pressure inside the enclosed space S.

[0126] The air flow distribution balancer 14 is capable of receiving a first air flow. The first air flow includes outside air. The outside air is air from outside the enclosed space S. Generally, the outside air is the ambient air outside the cabin C of the vehicle. The first air flow is a fresh air flow path, also referred to herein as the "fresh air flow". The outside air is also referred to herein as "fresh air". The fresh air flows in the fresh air flow towards the air flow distribution balancer 14. In the drawings, the fresh air flow is represented by the arrow F.

[0127] The air flow distribution balancer 14 is capable of receiving a second air flow. The second air flow includes inside air. The inside air is air from inside the enclosed space S. The second air flow is a recirculation air flow path, also referred to herein as the "recirculation air flow". The inside air is also referred to herein as "recirculation air". The recirculation air flows in the recirculation air flow towards the air flow distribution balancer 14. In the drawings, the recirculation air flow is represented by the arrow R.

[0128] The air flow distribution balancer 14 is capable of regulating the amounts of fresh air and recirculated air that are permitted to enter the air flow distribution balancer 14, which will be further described herein. In the use of the system 1, the fresh air and recirculated air that are permitted to enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 leave the air flow distribution balancer 14 as a single air flow (i.e., the outlet air flow). Thus, the air flow distribution balancer 14 balances the volumes of fresh air and recirculated air that are permitted to enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 and leave the air flow distribution balancer 14 as a single air flow to be distributed to the enclosed space S downstream of the air flow distribution balancer 14, which will be further described herein. In the drawings, the single air flow (i.e., the outlet air flow) is represented by arrow A.

[0129] The air flow generator 16 is capable of generating a fresh air flow F. The air flow generator 16 is capable of generating a recirculated air flow R. The air flow generator 16 is located downstream of the air flow distribution balancer 14.

[0130] Controller

[0131] The controller 11 may include a single-board computer supplemented by an additional circuit board that interfaces with the sensor 12, the air flow distribution balancer 14, the air flow generator 16, and any other components as required.

[0132] Sensor

[0133] The one or more sensors 12 include one or more of the following sensors: at least one pressure sensor 18 for sensing the pressure inside and outside or inside the enclosed space S; at least one dust sensor 20 for sensing the presence of dust particles in the enclosed space S; at least one CO 2 sensor 22 for sensing the presence of CO 2 in the enclosed space S; at least one air flow sensor 24 for sensing the air flow; and / or one or more gas sensors 26 to sense the presence of other gases. The dust sensor 20, the CO 2 sensor 22, and the gas sensor 26 are capable of sensing the presence of dust particles, CO 2 and other gases by sensing that the concentrations of dust particles, CO 2 and other gases are higher than the respective minimum threshold concentrations.

[0134] The controller 11 is operably in communication with each of the pressure sensor 18, the dust sensor 20, the CO 2 sensor 22, the air flow sensor 24, and the gas sensor 26 such that the controller 11 is able to receive one or more input signals from the pressure sensor 18, the dust sensor 20, the CO 2 sensor 22, the air flow sensor 24, and the gas sensor 26.

[0135] One or more pressure sensors 18 are provided to sense the pressure inside and outside or inside the enclosed space S.

[0136] The dust sensor 20 may be expressed in other terms, such as a particulate mass sensor, a PM sensor. One or more dust sensors 20 are provided to sense the concentration of dirt and dust particles in the enclosed space S. However, one or more dust sensors 20 may also be provided outside the enclosed space S, i.e., an external dust sensor 20. Such an external dust sensor 20 allows the protection factor to be determined by the controller 11. For example, in terms of the protection factor provided in relation to the dust level, the protection factor can be calculated by dividing the external dust concentration (sensed by the dust sensor 20 outside the enclosed space S) by the internal dust concentration (sensed by the dust sensor 20 inside the enclosed space S). For example, if the internal dust sensor 20 indicates that the dust concentration in the enclosed space S is 10 parts / m 3 and the external dust sensor 20 indicates that the dust concentration outside the enclosed space S is 10,000 parts / m 3 , then the protection factor is calculated by dividing the external count by the internal count (i.e., 10,000÷10 = 1000), resulting in a protection factor of 1000.

[0137] One or more CO 2 sensors 22 are provided to sense the CO 2 concentration in the enclosed space S.

[0138] The airflow sensors 24 sense the airflow at the respective positions where they are provided. In the installation of the system 1 shown, the airflow sensors 24 are provided at various positions. The first airflow sensor 24 is located before (i.e., upstream) the airflow distribution balancer 14 to sense the airflow in the fresh airflow F. The second airflow sensor 24 is located before (i.e., upstream) the airflow distribution balancer 14 and after (i.e., downstream) the enclosed space S to sense the airflow in the recirculation airflow R. The third airflow sensor 24 is located near the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system to sense the airflow of the individual airflow A entering the enclosed space S. Figure 1A The airflow sensors 24 may be mass airflow sensors that sense the airflow rate.

[0139] One or more gas sensors 26 are provided to sense the concentration of gases in the enclosed space S. These are gases other than CO 2 and may not be desired to be present in the enclosed space S. Such other gases include, for example, hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and / or refrigerant gases, such as R-1234YF.

[0140]

[0141] ​At least some of the sensors 12 may be mounted in one or more sensor boxes 28. For example, in Figure 1A pressure sensor 18, dust sensor 20, CO 2 sensor 22, and gas sensor 26 are shown mounted in sensor box 28.

[0142] Airflow distribution balancer - First embodiment

[0143] Figures 12 to 19 A first embodiment of the airflow distribution balancer 14 is shown.

[0144] The airflow distribution balancer 14 includes a housing 40 having a first inlet 42, a second inlet 44, at least one outlet 46, and at least one door 48.

[0145] The first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 have substantially the same dimensions.

[0146] The housing 40 has a first end 50 and a second end 51. The first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are located at the first end 50 of the housing 40. At least one outlet 46 is located at the second end 51 of the housing 40. The housing 40 encloses a chamber 52. The first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are in fluid communication with the chamber 52. The door 48 is located within the chamber 52. The door 48 is positioned adjacent to the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44.

[0147] The housing 40 includes two parts 40a and 40b. In Figures 12 to 16 housing part 40a is on the top, and housing part 40b is on the bottom. The two housing parts 40a and 40b may be connected together by bolts (not shown) passing through corresponding lugs 54a and 54b of the housing parts 40a and 40b. In Figure 14 , 15 and 16, the airflow distribution balancer 14 is shown with the housing part 40a removed to show an internal view of the airflow distribution balancer 14.

[0148] At least one door 48 is movable to a selected position. In the first position of the door 48, the door 48 closes the first inlet 42. In the first position of the door 48, the door 48 does not close the second inlet 44. In the second position of the door 48, the door 48 closes the second inlet 44. In the second position of the door 48, the door 48 does not close the first inlet 42.

[0149] In the first position of the door 48, the first inlet 42 is closed while the second inlet 44 is open. The door 48 is shown in the Figure 13 and 14 in the first position. Figure 13 and 14It is shown that in the first position, the door 48 completely blocks the first inlet 42 (such that the first inlet 42 is completely closed) and the door 48 does not block the second inlet 44 (such that the second inlet 44 is completely open). In the second position of the door 48, the first inlet 42 is closed and the second inlet 44 is open. The door 48 is shown in Figure 12 and 15 as being in the second position. Figure 12 and 15 It is shown that in the second position, the door 48 completely blocks the second inlet 44 (such that the second inlet 44 is completely closed) and the door 48 does not block any part of the first inlet 42 (such that the first inlet 42 is completely open).

[0150] Since the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 have substantially the same dimensions, the cross-sectional area of the first inlet 42 is the same as the cross-sectional area of the second inlet 44 when the second inlet 44 is completely open.

[0151] The door 48 can move between the first position, the second position, and a selected position. The selected position can be the first position, the second position, or an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. Figure 16 The door 48 is shown in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. In the intermediate position of the door 48, the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are partially open and partially closed. In Figure 16 the shown intermediate position of the door 48, the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are partially open and partially closed to the same extent; that is, the opening dimensions of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are equal. Similarly, in Figure 16 the shown intermediate position of the door 48, the closing dimensions of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are equal.

[0152] In other intermediate positions of the door 48 (i.e., intermediate positions different from Figure 16 the shown intermediate position), one of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 is open to a greater extent while the other is closed to a greater extent. The degree of opening or closing of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 is determined by the relative position of the door 48. The closer the door 48 is to the first position, the greater the degree of opening of the second inlet 44; in addition, the greater the degree of closing of the first inlet 42. Conversely, the closer the door 48 is to the second position, the greater the degree of opening of the first inlet 42; in addition, the greater the degree of closing of the second inlet 44. Therefore, moving the door 48 to increase the opening of the first inlet 42 will proportionally further close the opening at the second inlet 44; moving the door 48 to reduce the opening degree of the opening at the first inlet 42 (i.e., further close the opening at the first inlet 42) will proportionally increase the opening degree at the second inlet 44.

[0153] The door 48 includes a plate 56. The plate 56 has a first face 58 and a second face. The second face is opposite to the first face 58. Thus, the second face is not visible in the drawings. The first face 58 faces the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44. The second face of the plate 56 faces the chamber 52 within the housing 40. The door 48 further includes a first end plate 60 and a second end plate 62. The first end plate 60 and the second end plate 62 are provided at respective ends of the first plate 56. The first end plate 60 and the second end plate 62 extend from respective ends of the first plate 56 into the chamber 52.

[0154] The profile of the plate 56 is configured to match the profile of the inner surface of the housing 40 around the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 at the first end 50 of the housing 40. This profile matching minimizes the gap between the plate 56 and the inner surface of the housing 40 when the housing moves between its first position and its second position.

[0155] The profiles of the first end plate 60 and the second end plate 62 match the inner surfaces of the respective sides of the housing 40 adjacent to the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44. These profile matchings minimize the gaps between the first end plate 60 and the second end plate 62 and the inner surface of the housing 40 when the door 48 is in its first position and its second position, respectively.

[0156] One or more arms 66 extend from the door 48. One or more arms 66 extend from the plate 56 of the door 48. One or more arms 66 extend to a rod 68. One or more arms 66 connect the door 48 to the rod 68. A portion of the rod 68 is received in a sleeve 69. The sleeve 69 is provided with a hole 69a. The hole 69a extends axially through the sleeve 69. A portion of the rod 68 is received in the hole 69a. The portion of the rod 68 is received in the hole 69a via the first end of the hole 69a. The rod 68 is fastened to the sleeve 69; for example, the rod 68 can be fastened to the sleeve 69 by a screw passing through a hole in the sleeve 69 and bearing tightly against the rod 68. The rod 68 and the sleeve 69 are fastened such that they cannot move relative to each other.

[0157] The air flow distribution balancer 14 further includes a motor 70. The door 48 and the motor 70 are operatively connected such that the motor 70 is operable to move the door 48. The motor 70 is operable to move the door 48 to a selected position. The selected position can be the first position, the second position, and any intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

[0158] The motor 70 is located within a housing 72. The motor 70 is best shown in Figure 18 and Figure 19 The housing 72 is shown in Figure 17is best shown in. The housing 72 is connected to the housing 40. The housing 72 is connected to the housing portion 40b. The housing 72 is outside the chamber 52. The motor 70 has a rotatable shaft 74. The operation of the motor 7 causes the shaft 74 to rotate. A portion of the shaft 74 is received in the hole 69a in the sleeve 69. The said portion of the shaft 74 is received in the hole 69a through the second end of the hole 69a. The shaft 74 is fastened to the sleeve 69; for example, the shaft 74 can be fastened to the sleeve 69 by a screw passing through a hole in the sleeve 69 and pressing tightly against the shaft 74. The shaft 74 and the sleeve 69 are fastened so that they cannot move relative to each other. Thus, both the rod 68 and the shaft 74 are fastened to the sleeve 69. The sleeve 69 can move rotationally together with the shaft 74. The rod 68 can move rotationally together with the shaft 74. The motor 70 is operable to rotate the shaft 74 such that the door 48 can move between a first position and a second position, whereby it can be positioned at a selected position between the first position and the second position and any intermediate position therebetween. In particular, the shaft 74 can rotate in a swinging manner. The swinging rotation of the shaft 74 is a reciprocating rotation, that is, rotating in a first direction and then rotating in the opposite direction, through a limited arc angle. The limited arc angle corresponds to the first position and the second position of the door 48. Thus, the shaft 74 does not rotate 360 o .

[0159] The housing 40 is provided with first and second tubular portions 76 at the first end 50 of the housing 40. The first and second tubular portions 76 form a first inlet 42 and a second inlet 44. The tubular portions 76 have substantially the same dimensions. Since the first and second tubular portions 76 have substantially the same dimensions, the tubular portions 76 have substantially the same cross-sectional area.

[0160] In the first position of the door 48, the door 48 completely blocks the first inlet 42 because the plate 56 completely blocks the first inlet 42. In the second position of the door 48, the door 48 completely blocks the second inlet 44 because the plate 56 completely blocks the second inlet 44. When the door 48 is in an intermediate position (i.e., a position between the first and second positions of the door 48, but not in the first and second positions of the door 48), each of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 is partially open and partially closed. In this intermediate position of the door 48, the plate 56 partially blocks each of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44. The extent to which the plate 56 blocks the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 is determined by the relative position of the door 48, as described hereinbefore with reference to the degree of opening or closing of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44.

[0161] The air flow distribution balancer 14 can be used in Figure 1A the system 1 shown.

[0162] A fresh air stream F can be received at a first inlet 42 of the air flow distribution equalizer 14; a recirculation air stream R can be received at a second inlet 44 of the air flow distribution equalizer 14. However, either of the two air streams F and R can be received at the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44. Thus, the functions of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 can be reversed such that the recirculation air stream R is received at the first inlet 42 and the fresh air stream F is received at the second inlet 44.

[0163] A door 48 can be used to regulate the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculation air permitted to enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14. In this regard, the position of the door 48 affects the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculation air permitted to enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14. Moving the door 48 in a direction away from the first position to an intermediate position closer to the second position increases the opening size at the first inlet 42 and decreases the opening size at the second inlet 44. Assuming no change in the velocity of the fresh air stream F or the recirculation air stream R, this will result in a greater amount of fresh air and a smaller amount of recirculation air being able to enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14 into the chamber 52. Conversely, moving the door 48 in a direction away from the second position to an intermediate position closer to the first position increases the opening size at the second inlet 44 and decreases the opening size at the first inlet 42. Assuming no change in the velocity of the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R, this will result in a greater amount of recirculation air and a smaller amount of fresh air being able to enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14 into the chamber 52.

[0164] When the door 48 is in the first position, the first inlet 42 (for the fresh air stream F) is fully closed and the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air stream R) is fully open. When the door 48 is in the first position, only recirculation air can enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14 into the chamber 52 (through the fully open second inlet 44) and exit through the outlet 46.

[0165] When the door 48 is in the second position, the first inlet 42 (for the fresh air stream F) is fully open and the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air stream R) is fully closed. When the door 48 is in the second position, only fresh air can enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14 into the chamber 52 (through the fully open first inlet 42) and exit through the outlet 46.

[0166] When the door 48 is in an intermediate position (i.e., between the first position and the second position), both the first inlet 42 (for the fresh air stream F) and the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air stream R) are partially open (and partially closed). When the door 48 is in the intermediate position, both fresh air and recirculation air can enter the air flow distribution equalizer 14 into the chamber 52 (through the partially open first inlet 42 and second inlet 44).

[0167] Fresh air and recirculated air are mixed in chamber 52 and discharged from outlet 46 as a single air stream A (i.e., the outlet air stream). Thus, the single air stream A is a combined air stream composed of the air in the fresh air stream F entering the air flow distribution balancer 14 and the air in the recirculated air stream R. The relative sizes of the partial openings of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 affect the volumes of fresh air and recirculated air that can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 into chamber 52, as described previously herein.

[0168] Thus, the door 48 can be moved to a selected position to adjust the air flow ratio of the fresh air stream F and the recirculated air stream R.

[0169] Air Flow Distribution Balancer - Second Embodiment

[0170] Figure 20 A second embodiment of the air flow distribution balancer 14a is shown. The air flow distribution balancer 14a of the second embodiment is similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment, except that the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a of the air flow distribution balancer 14a have different sizes. Thus, the cross-sectional areas of the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a are different.

[0171] Specifically, in Figure 20 the embodiment shown, the second inlet 44a is larger than the first inlet 42a, i.e., the first inlet 42a is smaller than the second inlet 44a. Since the second inlet 44a is larger than the first inlet 42a, the cross-sectional area of the second inlet 44a is larger than the cross-sectional area of the first inlet 42a. The tubular portion 76aa at the second inlet 44a is larger than the tubular portion 76a at the first inlet 42a. Thus, the cross-sectional area of the tubular portion 76aa is larger than the cross-sectional area of the tubular portion 76a.

[0172] Therefore, a larger volume of air can enter chamber 52 via the second inlet 44a and the tubular portion 76aa compared to via the first inlet 42a and the tubular portion 76a.

[0173] The air flow distribution balancer 14a can be used in Figure 1A the system 1 shown.

[0174] If a fresh air stream F is received at the first inlet 42a and a recirculation air stream R is received at the second inlet 44a, then, since the second inlet 44a is larger than the first inlet 42a, the air flow rate of the recirculation air stream R entering the air flow distributor 14a increases relative to the air flow rate of the fresh air stream F. This allows an increase in the recirculation air stream entering the air flow distributor 14a while maintaining a desired level of fresh air stream entering the air flow distributor 14a. Thus, contrary to the air flow distributor 14 of the first embodiment, the movement of the door 48 does not disproportionately change the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculation air entering the air flow distributor 14a into the chamber 52.

[0175] In Figure 20 it, the second inlet 44a is shown as being larger than the first inlet 42a. However, as an alternative, the first inlet 42a may be larger than the second inlet 44a. The relative sizes of the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a may be proportionally related. For example, the cross-sectional area of the second inlet 44a may be twice as large as the cross-sectional area of the first inlet 42a. In such an arrangement, the amount or volume of recirculation air that can flow into the air flow distributor 14 will be twice the amount or volume of fresh air that can flow into the air flow distributor 14. Other ratios can be achieved by appropriately adjusting the relative cross-sectional dimensions of the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a.

[0176] Furthermore, as in the air flow distributor 14 of the first embodiment, either the first inlet 42a or the second inlet 44a of the air flow distributor 14a can receive either of the two air streams F and R. Thus, if it is desired to increase the air flow rate of the fresh air stream F entering the air flow distributor 14a relative to the air flow rate of the recirculation air stream R, the fresh air stream F will be directed to the larger of the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a, and the recirculation air stream R will be directed to the other inlet.

[0177] In other respects, the air flow distributor 14a of the second embodiment and its use in the Figure 1A system 1 shown are similar to the air flow distributor 14 of the first embodiment.

[0178] Air Flow Distributor - Third Embodiment

[0179] Figures 21 to 24 A third embodiment of the air flow distributor 14b is shown.

[0180] The air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment is similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment, except that the air flow distribution balancer 14b is provided with two doors 48b and two motors 70. Each door 48b is associated with a corresponding inlet 42. Each motor 70 is located in a corresponding housing 72b. The door 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment is different from the door 48 of the air flow distribution balancer 48 of the first embodiment.

[0181] Each door 48b is movable to a selected position. In the first position of the door 48b, the door 48b closes its corresponding inlet 42 or 44. In the second position of each door 48b, the door 48b closes its corresponding inlet 42 or 44.

[0182] Corresponding doors 48b are provided for the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44. In the first position where the door 48b is located at the first inlet 42, the door 48b closes the first inlet 42 (i.e., the first inlet 42 is closed). In the second position where the door 48b is located at the first inlet 42, the door 48b does not close the first inlet 42 (i.e., the first inlet 42 is open). In the first position where the door 48b is located at the second inlet 44, the door 48b closes the second inlet 44 (i.e., the second inlet 44 is closed). In the second position where the door 48b is located at the second inlet 44, the door 48b does not close the second inlet 44 (i.e., the second inlet 44 is open).

[0183] In Figure 21 , the two doors 48b (at the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44) are shown in their corresponding first positions. Figure 21 It is shown that in the corresponding first positions of the doors 48b, the doors 48b completely block the corresponding first inlet 42 and second inlet 44 (such that the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are completely closed). In Figure 22 , the two doors 48b are shown in their corresponding second positions. Figure 22 It is shown that in the corresponding second positions of the doors 48b, the doors 48b do not block the corresponding first inlet 42 and second inlet 44 (such that the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 are completely open). In Figure 23 , the door 48b at the first inlet 42 is shown in the first position (i.e., closed), while the door 48b at the second inlet 44 is shown in the second position (i.e., open).

[0184] Each door 48b can be moved to a selected position between a first position and a second position. The selected position can be the first position, the second position, or an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. Each door 48b is operatively connected to a corresponding motor 70 such that the motor 70 is operable to move the corresponding door 48b. The corresponding motor 70 is operable to move the corresponding door 48b to the selected position. Each door 48b can be moved independently of the other door 48b by its corresponding motor 70.

[0185] Each door 48b can be moved to an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. At the intermediate position of the door 48b, the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44 is partially open and partially closed.

[0186] At the intermediate position of the door 48b, the degree of opening or closing of the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44 is determined by the relative position of the door 48b. Thus, the closer the door 48b is to the first position, the greater the degree of closing of the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44. Conversely, the closer the door 48b is to the second position, the greater the degree of opening of the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44.

[0187] Each door 48b includes a plate 56b. The plate 56b has a first face 58b and a second face. The second face is opposite the first face 58b. Thus, the second face is not visible in the drawings. When the door 48b closes the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44, the first face 58b of the plate 56b faces the corresponding first inlet 42 or second inlet 44, and the second face of the plate 56b faces the chamber 52 within the housing 40.

[0188] Each door 48b is provided with a hole 78 therethrough. The hole 78 is located at the center of each door 48b. The hole 78 is provided along the diameter line of each door 48b. The shaft 74 of the motor 70 is received in the hole 78 of the corresponding door 48b. The door 48b does not rotate relative to its corresponding shaft 74. The door 48b rotates together with its corresponding shaft 74.

[0189] The motor 70 is operable to rotate the shaft 74 such that each door 48b can be moved between the first position and the second position, whereby it can be positioned at a selected position from the first position to the second position and any intermediate position therebetween. For example, each door 48b can move in a swinging manner. The swinging movement of the door 48b is achieved by the shaft 74 rotating in a swinging manner. The swinging rotation of the shaft 74 can be a reciprocating rotation, i.e., rotating in a first direction and then rotating in the opposite direction, through a limited arc angle. The limited arc angle corresponds to the first position and the second position of the door 48b. The limited arc angle can be 90 o 。

[0190] The outer shell 72b is attached to the housing 40. The outer shell 72b is attached to the housing portion 40b. The outer shell 72b is attached to the corresponding tubular portion 76. The door 48b is located in the corresponding portion 76.

[0191] In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the figures), the motor 70 may be provided in a single outer shell instead of being provided in two separate corresponding outer shells 72b. In such an embodiment, the single outer shell is attached to the housing 40. The single outer shell is attached to the housing portion 40b. The single outer shell is attached to the tubular portion 76.

[0192] The air flow distribution balancer 14b can be used in Figure 1A the system 1 shown.

[0193] The use and operation of the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment is similar to the use and operation of the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment, except that each door 48b can move independently under the operation of the corresponding motor 70.

[0194] Thus, the fresh air flow F can be received at the first inlet 42 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b; the recirculated air flow R can be received at the second inlet 44 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b. Alternatively, the recirculated air flow R is received at the first inlet 42, while the fresh air flow F is received at the second inlet 44.

[0195] The door 48b can be used to independently adjust the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculated air allowed to enter the air flow distribution balancer 14b. In this regard, the position of the door 48b affects the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculated air allowed to enter the air flow distribution balancer 14b. Moving the door 48b from the first position towards an intermediate position closer to the second position increases the opening size at the corresponding inlet (i.e., the first inlet 42 or the second inlet 44). Assuming that the velocity of the air flow (i.e., the fresh air flow F or the recirculated air flow R) directed to the inlet does not change, an increase in the size of the opening at the corresponding inlet will result in a larger volume of air (i.e., fresh air or recirculated air, depending on which air flow is connected to the inlet) being able to enter the chamber 52. Conversely, moving the door 48b from the second position towards an intermediate position closer to the first position decreases the opening size at the corresponding inlet. Assuming that the velocity of the air flow directed to the inlet does not change, a decrease in the size of the opening at the corresponding inlet will result in a smaller volume of air (i.e., fresh air or recirculated air, depending on which air flow is connected to the inlet) being able to enter the chamber 52.

[0196] Assume that the first inlet 42 receives a fresh air stream F and the second inlet 44 receives a recirculation air stream R. When the door 48b at the first inlet 42 is in the first position, the first inlet 42 is completely closed. Conversely, when the door 48b at the first inlet 42 is in the second position, the first inlet 42 is completely open; this allows the maximum flow rate of the fresh air stream F to enter the chamber 52 in the air flow distribution balancer 14b through the first inlet 42. Similarly, when the door 48b at the second inlet 44 is in the first position, the second inlet 44 is completely closed. Conversely, when the door 48b at the second inlet 44 is in the second position, the second inlet is completely open; this allows the maximum flow rate of the recirculation air stream R to enter the chamber 52 in the air flow distribution balancer 14b through the second inlet 44.

[0197] When the door 48b at the first inlet 42 (for the fresh air stream F) is in an intermediate position, the flow rate of the fresh air stream F entering the chamber 52 in the air flow distribution balancer 14b (through the partially open first inlet 42) is less than the maximum flow rate when the door 48b is in the second position. Similarly, when the door 48b at the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air stream R) is in an intermediate position, the flow rate of the recirculation air stream R entering the chamber 52 in the air flow distribution balancer 14b (through the partially open second inlet 44) is less than the maximum flow rate when the door 48b is in the second position.

[0198] The fresh air and the recirculation air are mixed in the chamber 52 and discharged as a single air stream A from the outlet 46. The relative sizes of the openings of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 affect the volumes of the fresh air and the recirculation air that can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 into the chamber 52, as described previously herein.

[0199] Therefore, each door 48b can be moved to a selected position to regulate the flow rates of the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R entering the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b through the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44, respectively.

[0200] Since the doors 48b can be moved independently of each other, compared with the air flow distribution balancer using only a single door 48, greater control is provided over the amount or volume of the fresh air and the recirculation air stream that can flow into the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b. Therefore, two separate and independently movable doors (one for each inlet 42 / 44) that control the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R respectively allow independent control of the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R.

[0201] In other respects, the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment and its use in the Figure 1A system 1 shown are similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment.

[0202] Air Flow Distribution Balancer - Fourth Embodiment

[0203] In a fourth embodiment of the air flow distribution balancer (not shown in the figures), the air flow distribution balancer is provided with two doors 48b and two motors 70 (similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment), and has a first inlet 42a and a second inlet 44a of different sizes (similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14a of the second embodiment).

[0204] In other respects, the air flow distribution balancer of the fourth embodiment and its use in the Figure 1A system 1 shown are similar to the air flow distribution balancers 14, 14a, and 14b of the first, second, and third embodiments.

[0205] Air flow generator - First embodiment

[0206] As Figure 1A shown, the air flow generator 16 in the system 1 is provided in the form of an air supercharger 16. Air superchargers are known in the art.

[0207] The air supercharger 16 (the air flow generator 16 in the form) generates a fresh air flow F. The air supercharger 16 (the air flow generator 16 in the form) generates a recirculating air flow R.

[0208] The air supercharger 16 includes an inlet 29 for sucking air into the air supercharger 16 and an outlet 30 for discharging air from the air supercharger 16. The air flow path from the inlet 29 to the outlet 30 is provided inside the air supercharger 16. The air supercharger 16 also includes a motor and a fan or impeller (or similar device) in the flow path inside the air supercharger 16. The fan or impeller is driven by the motor. The motor is located inside the air supercharger 16. The motor drives the fan or impeller that generates the fresh air flow F and the recirculating air flow R. Thus, the fresh air flow F and the recirculating air flow R flow to and through the air flow distribution balancer 14 and the air supercharger 16, and leave the air flow distribution balancer 14 as a single air flow A.

[0209] Some air superchargers may also include a filter. In this embodiment of system 1, the air supercharger 16 does not have a filter. However, the air entering the air supercharger 16 from the fresh air stream F will generally contain dirt and dust particles present in the surrounding environment in which the vehicle equipped with system 1 operates. For such an environment, system 1 is also provided with one or more filters to filter dirt and dust particles from the fresh air stream F before the air is delivered into the enclosed space S, as further described herein. When system 1 is to operate in an environment where there are no dirt and dust particles, the filter can be omitted from system 1, i.e., a supercharger without a filter can be used and no separate filter is required. However, it is generally expected that system 1 will operate in an environment where there are dirt and dust particles, so system 1 will be provided with a filter. In any case, as a precautionary measure, system 1 is generally provided with a filter regardless of the environment in which system 1 is to operate. As described previously herein, some air superchargers may include a filter. This document refers to Figure 2 An embodiment of system (2) is described, which has an air supercharger (16a) provided with a filter (31) to filter dirt and dust particles. The filter is located inside the air supercharger 16. In this regard, due to the surrounding environment in which the vehicle equipped with system 1 operates, the air entering the air supercharger 16 from the fresh air stream F may contain dirt and dust particles. On the other hand, the air entering the air supercharger 16 from the recirculation air stream R will have passed through the filter in advance. The air inhaled into the air supercharger 16 passes through the filter in the air supercharger 16. The filter filters dirt and dust particles. Depending on the type and grade of the filter, the filter may also filter other pollutants (e.g., unwanted gases). The filtered air then exits from the outlet 30 of the air supercharger 16. The filtered air is then directed to the enclosed space S.

[0210] Other components of the system

[0211] Other components of system 1 are described in the following sections.

[0212] Filter

[0213] As described earlier herein, the air supercharger 16 is not provided with a filter to filter dirt and dust particles. Thus, the system 1 may further include one or more filters 31. Such a filter 31 is a filter separate from the air supercharger 16. The filter 31 is provided upstream of the HVAC system of the vehicle in which the system 1 is installed. The filter 31 is provided upstream of the enclosed space S. In the system 1 (as shown in FIG. 1), the filter 31 is provided downstream of the outlet 30 of the air supercharger 16. In the system 1 (shown in FIG. 1), the filter 31 is provided upstream of the enclosed space S and the HVAC system of the vehicle in which the system 1 is installed. The filter 31 shown in FIG. 1 may include, for example, a fine particulate filter. The fine particulate filter is configured to filter dirt and dust particles. The dirt and dust particles that the filter 31 can filter may be particles that can include particle sizes as small as fine particulate particles. The fine particulate filter of the filter 31 may include, for example, a HEPA filter, a ULPA filter, an EPA filter, or other filters capable of filtering fine particulates.

[0214] However, the filter 31 may include other types of filters. For example, in order to also filter undesirable gases from the air, a fine particulate filter may be provided to filter dirt and dust particles from the air, followed by an activated carbon filter to filter out the undesirable gases. Another fine particulate filter may also be provided after the activated carbon filter as an additional safety margin. Figure 1B An additional filter 31 is shown and further described herein. The type of filter selected to be the one or more filters 31 will depend on the type of contaminants in the operating environment in which the vehicle (having the enclosed space S) operates.

[0215] Air is directed through the filter 31 in only one direction. Thus, the filter may be a directional filter.

[0216] Air pre-cleaner

[0217] System 1 may also include an air pre - cleaner 32. The air pre - cleaner 32 is desirable if the ambient environment outside the enclosed space S from which fresh air is inhaled has an undesired concentration of large and heavy dirt and dust particles. The air pre - cleaner 32 is provided to remove the largest and heaviest dirt and dust particles from the ambient air (outside the enclosed space) before directing the air to other components of the system 1. The air pre - cleaner 32 is best shown in FIG. 3. The air pre - cleaner 32 includes an inlet and an outlet. The outlet of the air pre - cleaner 32 is connected to the first inlet 42 of the airflow distribution balancer 14. The first inlet 42 receives the fresh airflow F. The ambient air (from outside the enclosed space S) is drawn into the air pre - cleaner 32 through the inlet of the air pre - cleaner 32. The largest and heaviest dirt and dust particles in the ambient air drawn into the air pre - cleaner 32 are discharged from one or more discharge ports of the air pre - cleaner 32. The ambient air (cleared of the heaviest dirt and dust particles) then flows in the air pre - cleaner 32 towards the outlet of the air pre - cleaner 32. This airflow is the fresh airflow F, as shown in FIG. 3. This fresh airflow F flows from the outlet of the air pre - cleaner 32 through the first inlet 42 into the chamber 52 of the airflow distribution balancer 14.

[0218] Air is drawn into the air pre - cleaner 32 by the fan or impeller of the air booster 16. Thus, the air booster 16 generates the fresh airflow F.

[0219] The air pre - cleaner can be, for example, an intake air cleaning device of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,361,574.

[0220] If the pre - cleaner 32 is not required, the outside air can be directly drawn as the fresh airflow F into the first inlet 42 of the airflow distribution balancer 14.

[0221] Duct

[0222] System 1 also includes ducts for passing various airflows through the system 1.

[0223] In Figure 1A the installation shown, and best shown in Figure 2 and FIG. 3, a first duct 33a extends from the outlet 46 of the airflow distribution balancer 14 to the inlet 29 of the air booster 16. A second duct 33b extends from the outlet 30 of the air booster 16 to the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system. An opening for the duct 33b is formed in the housing H of the chamber C, generally indicated by reference numeral 35a in Figure 2 . A third duct 33c extends from the air return unit N to the second inlet 44 of the airflow distribution balancer 14. An opening 35b for the duct 33c is formed in the housing H of the chamber C, best shown in Figure 10 and 11 and FIG. 3.

[0224] A single air stream A can flow from the air flow distribution balancer 14 to the air supercharger 16 in the second duct 33a, and after being filtered in the air supercharger 16, flow from the air supercharger 16 to the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system in the second duct 33b. The recirculation air stream R can flow from the air return unit N to the air flow distribution balancer 14 in the third duct 33c.

[0225] Interface

[0226] If desired, the system 1 may further include one or more interfaces with the controller 11. As an example, three different types of interfaces are described herein. The first interface may include a user interface with the controller 11. The first interface allows a user (e.g., an operator located in the enclosed space S) to interact with the controller 11. The second interface may include a web interface. The system 1 may have a built-in Wi-Fi network, and the web interface allows a user to connect to the controller 11 via the built-in Wi-Fi network using a suitable device (e.g., a (laptop) computer or a smart phone). LTE (Long Term Evolution) compatibility may also be provided to the system. As an alternative or addition to the system 1 having a built-in Wi-Fi network, the controller 11 may be connected to an external network via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and / or a USB interface. For example, the system may interface with a USB LTE adapter to connect to an external network. The third type of interface may include an interface between the system 1 and an OEM system. For example, if the enclosed space S (or another device associated with the enclosed space S, such as a vehicle) has an OEM system that desires to interface with the system 1, then this third type of interface may be required.

[0227] In the drawings, as previously described herein, the first type of interface is shown. The user interface 34 is connected to the controller 11. The user interface 34 may be physically separated from the controller 11. The user interface 34 may include a circuit board. The user interface 34 may include a microcontroller. The user interface 34 may further include a housing for a keyboard and a display. The display may be a backlit display. However, as an alternative (or addition) to a keyboard and a display, a touch screen may be used. The user interface 34 may be located at any suitable location in the enclosed space S, for example. The user interface 34 may further include an alarm, such as at least one of a buzzer and a warning light, to warn the operator of a situation that requires the operator's attention.

[0228] Use and operation: System - First embodiment

[0229] In the following description of the use and operation of System 1, unless otherwise specified, the air flow distribution balancer is identified by the reference numeral "14#" to indicate that the reference to the air flow distribution balancer 14# can be any one of the first, second, third, or fourth embodiments described previously herein.

[0230] In use, the air flow distribution balancer 14# receives a fresh air flow F from an air pre - cleaner 32 (if provided) or directly from the ambient air outside the chamber C (if no air pre - cleaner is provided) and a recirculation air flow R from the third duct 33c. The fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R enter the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer 14# via a first inlet 42 / 42a and a second inlet 44 / 44a respectively. As described previously herein, the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R are generated by the air booster 16. The fresh air and the recirculation air are mixed in the chamber 52. The mixed fresh air and recirculation air leave the housing 40 as a single air flow A through the outlet 46. The single air flow A flows in the duct 33a towards the air booster 16. The single air flow A then flows from the air booster 16 into the duct 33b, passes through a filter 31 (such as a fine particulate filter as described previously herein) in the duct 33b, and then reaches the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system. The air flow A is filtered as it passes through the filter 31. The single air flow A (of the filtered air) then passes through the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system. If desired (i.e., heating or cooling), the HVAC system can apply a selected temperature regulation to the air. Then, the air is discharged from the air outlet unit U of the HVAC system into the enclosed space S. The air outlet unit U of the HVAC system is typically provided with a suitable blower (such as a fan or an impeller) to discharge the air into the enclosed space S. The discharge of air from the air outlet unit U into the enclosed space S is represented by the reference numeral 36a in Figure 2 which. The discharged air 36a is the air in the single air flow A. The air from the enclosed space S is drawn into the air return unit N of the HVAC system by a blower B in the air return unit N. The air enters the air return unit N via an air inlet I, as shown by the reference numeral 36b in Figure 2 which. After entering via the air inlet I, the air passes through a filter T. Then the air passes through the blower B and flows to the duct 33c. The air flowing into the duct 33c is the recirculation air flow R. The recirculation air flow R flows in the duct 33c towards the air flow distribution balancer 14# and enters the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer 14 via the second inlet 44 / 44a.

[0231] The filters in System 1 (i.e., the filter in air booster 16 and any filter 31, such as a fine particulate filter) are located within System 1 such that air in both the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R flows through the filter before entering the enclosed space S. In this regard, the air in the fresh air stream F and the air in the recirculation air stream R are combined in the air flow distribution balancer 14# and leave the air flow distribution balancer 14# as a single air stream A from the outlet 46. Thus, the single air stream A includes air from the fresh air stream F and air from the recirculation air stream R. After passing through the outlet unit U of the HVAC system, the single air stream A passes through the filter in the air booster 16 and any additional filters before entering the enclosed space. The fresh air stream F will be the air stream that contains a greater amount of contaminants (such as dirt and dust particles) as it is drawn from ambient air in an environment that is typically dusty outside the enclosed space S and outside the compartment C. However, the recirculation air stream R that leaves the enclosed space S via the third duct 33c may also contain dirt and dust particles from the enclosed space S, although less than what is typically contained in the fresh air stream F. In this regard, dirt and dust particles may enter the enclosed space S; for example, if the door or window of the compartment C is opened, this may occur through a gap in the sealing facility of the compartment C or from particles shedding from the clothing of a person entering the enclosed space S. Thus, it is advantageous that the air in the recirculation air stream R flowing out of the enclosed space S is filtered before this air returns to the enclosed space S in the single air stream A such that any dirt and dust particles from the enclosed space in the recirculation air stream R are removed by the filter.

[0232] As described previously herein, System 1 is provided with one or more sensors 12 of the type described previously herein. The controller 11 receives input signals from each of the sensors 12 in System 1, which sense specific environmental parameters indicative of the air quality inside the enclosed space S, such as differential air pressure, dust level / concentration, etc. These input signals indicate the respective environmental parameters that the sensors are sensing. In response to the input signals from the sensors 12, the controller 11 generates an output signal. The output signal is sent to the motor of the air booster 16 and / or the motor 70 of the air flow distribution balancer 14#.

[0233] If the input signal sent by sensor 12 and received by controller 11 indicates that the corresponding environmental parameter is not at the desired level, i.e., is at a predetermined value (which may also include above / below the predetermined value depending on the monitored environmental parameter) or within a predetermined value range, then the output signal generated by controller 11 and sent to the motor of air booster 16 causes the motor to adjust the speed of the motor. The adjustment of the speed will be to increase or decrease the speed of the motor. This in turn increases or decreases the rotational speed of the fan or impeller in air booster 16. Increasing the rotational speed of the fan or impeller in air booster 16 results in a corresponding increase in the fresh air flow F and recirculated air flow R drawn into air flow distribution balancer 14#, thereby causing an increase in the single air flow A flowing from the outlet 46 of air flow distribution balancer 14# into air booster 16. Conversely, decreasing the rotational speed of the fan or impeller in air booster 16 results in a corresponding decrease in the fresh air flow F and recirculated air flow R drawn into air flow distribution balancer 14#, thereby causing a decrease in the single air flow A flowing from the outlet 46 of air flow distribution balancer 14# into air booster 16.

[0234] If the input signal sent by sensor 12 and received by controller 11 indicates that the corresponding environmental parameter is at a predetermined value or within a predetermined value range, then the output signal sent from controller 11 to the motor of air booster 16 does not cause any adjustment of the motor speed, i.e., the speed of the motor remains unchanged (i.e., unadjusted). Accordingly, the rotational speed of the fan or impeller in air booster 16 also remains unchanged (i.e., unadjusted).

[0235] If the input signal sent by sensor 12 and received by controller 11 indicates that it is necessary to adjust the amount or volume of fresh air and / or recirculated air received in enclosed space S, i.e., if it is necessary to rebalance the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculated air supplied to enclosed space S, then the output signal generated by controller 11 and sent to the motor 70 of air flow distribution balancer 14# causes the motor 70 to move the doors 48 / 48b of air flow distribution balancer 14#. This occurs if the input signal sent by sensor 12 and received by controller 11 indicates that the corresponding environmental parameter is not at the desired level, i.e., is at a predetermined value (which may also include above / below the predetermined value depending on the monitored environmental parameter) or within a predetermined value range.

[0236] If the input signal sent by sensor 12 and received by controller 11 indicates that the corresponding environmental parameter is at a predetermined value or within a predetermined value range, then the output signal sent from controller 11 to the motor 70 (which moves the doors 48 / 48b) does not cause any change in the position of the doors 48 / 48b, i.e., the position of the doors 48 / 48b remains unchanged (i.e., unadjusted).

[0237] When receiving an output signal from the controller 11 to adjust the speed, the motor of the air supercharger 16 and / or the motor 70 of the air flow distribution balancer 14# (which moves the doors 48 / 48b) changes the operating set point of the motor to a higher or lower speed according to the output signal received from the controller 11. However, if the output signal received by the motor from the controller 11 indicates that no adjustment to the speed of the motor is required, the speed of the motor remains unchanged (i.e., unadjusted) in response to the output signal.

[0238] The normal condition of the system 1 (i.e., the system steady state condition) is when all the sensors 12 sense that the environmental parameters being monitored are at corresponding predetermined values or within a predetermined value range.

[0239] The normal condition of a specific environmental parameter (i.e., the parameter steady state condition) is when all the sensors 12 monitoring the parameter sense that the specific environmental parameter is at a corresponding predetermined value or within a predetermined value range.

[0240] The predetermined values or ranges of predetermined values can be preselected to provide suitable values for the specific environmental parameters being monitored. For example, the preselection can be based on data obtained from occupational health and safety regulatory bodies.

[0241] Thus, the air flow distribution balancer 14# allows a continuously adjustable mixture of fresh air F and recirculated air R to be supplied to the enclosed space S. Adjustment of one or both of the speed of the air flow distribution balancer 14# (as described earlier herein) and at least one of the air flow generator 16 and the blower B enables continuous and selective control of the air quality and pressure in the enclosed space S. The ratio (or relative amount) of fresh air and recirculated air delivered to the enclosed space S is controlled to allow adjustment in direct response to the sensed level of the monitored environmental parameters. These adjustments can be made in a continuous manner (i.e., continuously). Adjustment of the motor speed of the air flow generator 16 is used to adjust and control the pressure in the enclosed space S. Adjustment of the position of the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# is used to adjust (desirably reduce) the load on the motor of the air flow generator to generate pressure, although a change in the position of the doors 48 / 48b can affect the pressure in the enclosed space S. A positive pressure is maintained in the enclosed space S by delivering sufficient fresh air F to the enclosed space S to maintain the differential pressure setting in the enclosed space S.

[0242] Pressure Monitoring

[0243] A detailed description is provided by way of an example of the operation of the system 1, particularly with reference to the controller 11 receiving signals from one or more pressure sensors 18. Like the other sensors 12, the pressure sensors 18 are operably in communication with the controller 11.

[0244] Airflow Distribution Balancer - First Embodiment (1 - Motor / 1 - Door)

[0245] In the following description of the operation of system 1, system 1 includes the airflow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment.

[0246] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the pressure sensor 18 can be provided as at least one differential pressure sensor that senses the air pressure inside the enclosed space S within the compartment C and the air pressure outside the enclosed space S (i.e., outside the compartment C). The pressure sensor 18 is disposed at a suitable location. For example, as Figure 3B shown, the pressure sensor 18 can be mounted on the wall of the housing H inside the enclosed space S. The first tube 19a extends from the pressure sensor 18 into the enclosed space S within the compartment C such that the pressure sensor 18 is exposed to the air in the enclosed space S, whereby the pressure sensor 18 can sense the air pressure in the enclosed space S. The second tube 19b extends from the pressure sensor 18 outside the enclosed space S (i.e., outside the compartment C) such that the pressure sensor 18 is exposed to the air outside the enclosed space S (i.e., outside the compartment C), whereby the pressure sensor 18 can sense the air pressure outside the compartment C (i.e., outside the enclosed space S). In an alternative (not shown), two pressure sensors can be provided. The difference between the sensed air pressure in the enclosed space S within the compartment C and the sensed air pressure outside the enclosed space S (i.e., outside the compartment C) provides a measurement of the air pressure difference. System 1 operates to maintain the air pressure difference within a certain range such that a positive pressure is maintained within the enclosed space S, i.e., such that the air pressure inside the enclosed space S within the compartment C is higher than the air pressure outside the enclosed space (i.e., outside the compartment C) by a predetermined value (i.e., a predetermined pressure value) or an amount within a predetermined value range (i.e., a predetermined range). These differential pressure values are also referred to herein as the predetermined differential pressure value and the predetermined differential pressure range.

[0247] As an example, the predetermined differential pressure value and the predetermined differential pressure range can be selected from the range of 5 Pa to 300 Pa. 5 Pa is typically the minimum useful pressure difference, while 300 Pa is typically the maximum pressure difference that should be used in an enclosed space occupied by people. However, the system pressure difference capacity can be as high as 1000 Pa.

[0248] The pressure sensor 18 provides an input signal related to the air pressure difference to the controller 11, i.e., a signal indicating the sensed air pressure difference. The controller 11 is operably communicable with the motor of the air booster 16. Thus, the controller 11 can generate output signals that are sent to the motor of the air booster 16 to control the speed of the motor. In addition, the controller 11 is operably communicable with the motor 70 of the airflow distribution balancer 14. Thus, the controller 11 can generate output signals that are sent to the motor 70 of the airflow distribution balancer 14 to control the operation of the motor 70. The motor 70 is operated to move the door 48 to the desired position.

[0249] If the controller 11 receives an input signal from the pressure sensor 18 indicating that the air pressure difference has dropped below a predetermined value (i.e., a predetermined pressure value) or by an amount within a predetermined value range (i.e., a predetermined range of values), the controller 11 generates and sends an output signal: (i) to the motor of the air booster 16 to increase the speed of the motor, and / or (ii) to the motor 70 of the air distribution balancer to move the door 48 to increase the amount or volume of fresh air that can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14. Each of these actions (i.e., (i) and (ii)) will increase the volume of fresh air flowing into the enclosed space S and the pressure in the enclosed space S, thereby increasing the pressure difference, as further described herein.

[0250] Increasing the speed of the motor of the air booster 16 increases the speed of the fan or impeller of the air booster 18, which increases the volume of air drawn into the air flow distribution balancer 14 via the fresh air stream F and the recirculation air stream R. The air then leaves the air flow distribution balancer 14 as a single air stream A delivered to the enclosed space S. This increase in the volume of air in the fresh air stream F flowing into the enclosed space S causes the pressure in the enclosed space S to increase. This increase in the pressure in the enclosed space S causes the pressure difference to increase.

[0251] Since the air in the fresh air stream F is air drawn in from outside the enclosed space S (as opposed to the recirculation air stream R that has circulated through the system 1 and the enclosed space S), the fresh air stream F includes newly introduced air, and thus the effect is that it will increase the volume of fresh air flowing into the enclosed space S.

[0252] Moving the door 48 to increase the amount or volume of fresh air that can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 causes the door 48 to move in a direction away from the first position and towards the second position. As described previously herein, this increases the opening size at the first inlet 42 and decreases the opening size at the second inlet 44. This increases the volume of fresh air and decreases the volume of recirculation air that can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14. The air then leaves the air flow distribution balancer 14 as a single air stream A delivered to the enclosed space S. This increases the amount or volume of fresh air delivered to the enclosed space S relative to the amount or volume of the recirculation air R. Since more air is introduced into the system 1 (via the increased fresh air stream F) and less recirculation air can enter the air flow distribution balancer 14 (from the enclosed space S), the pressure in the enclosed space S increases. This increase in the pressure in the enclosed space S causes the pressure difference to increase.

[0253] Determining which motor to operate in response to an output signal from controller 11 (i.e., the motor of air booster 16 and / or motor 70) is performed by the logic in controller 11. The logic of controller 11 can be programmed and updated such that the motors operate as needed in response to the output signal from controller 11. The logic in controller 11 is programmed to balance competing factors in a desired manner.

[0254] For example, if the output signal from controller 11 indicates that motor 70 moves door 48 but does not indicate that the motor of the air booster changes its speed, then door 48 moves in the direction towards the second position. This increases the size of the opening at the first inlet 42 (i.e., the fresh air inlet), which results in an increase in the amount or volume of fresh air that can enter the chamber 52 in the airflow distributor 14 and then flow into the enclosed space S. This increase in the fresh air flow into the enclosed space S causes the air pressure in the enclosed space S to increase. Thus, the pressure in the enclosed space S increases without changing the speed of the motor of air booster 16. This is desirable for maximizing the efficiency and lifespan of the motor of air booster 16; additionally, since the motor of the air booster typically makes less noise when operating at a low speed, this is desirable for reducing noise. However, moving door 48 to increase the size of the opening at the first inlet 42 (to increase the amount or volume of fresh air flowing into the enclosed space S) simultaneously reduces the size of the opening at the second inlet 44 (i.e., the recirculated air inlet). Reducing the size of the opening at the second inlet 44 reduces the amount or volume of recirculated air flowing into the chamber 52 and the enclosed space S (relative to fresh air); furthermore, the amount or volume of recirculated air filtered by the filters in system 1 (i.e., the filter in air booster 16 and any filter 31, such as a fine particulate filter) is reduced. It is desirable for recirculated air to flow through system 1 because it reduces the accumulation of dirt and dust particles that enter the enclosed space S through open doors, gaps, or are carried on the clothes of people entering the enclosed space. Since the recirculated air is filtered as it flows through system 1 (i.e., filtered by the filter in air booster 16 and any filter 31 such as a fine particulate filter), this accumulation of dirt and dust particles is reduced by having the recirculated air flow through system 1. Additionally, if the enclosed space S has an existing air conditioning system (e.g., in an HVAC system), then maintaining a relatively high level of recirculated air flow through the system, or maximizing the recirculated air flow through the system, may be beneficial for reducing the air conditioning load because it reduces the proportion of potentially hot or cold fresh air that must be cooled or heated by the air conditioner.

[0255] When the controller 11 determines that the pressure sensor 18 senses that the air pressure difference has dropped to or below a predetermined value or dropped below a predetermined value range (i.e., the steady state condition of the pressure parameter), it indicates an underpressure condition. Once the controller 11 receives from the pressure sensor 18 a signal that the air pressure difference has dropped to or below a predetermined value or below a predetermined value range, the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the air booster 16 and / or the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b to adjust their operation.

[0256] Under an underpressure condition, if the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the air booster 16, the signal indicates that the motor increases the speed of the motor. This increases the speed of the motor, thereby increasing the speed of the fan or impeller of the air booster 16. This causes an increase in the amount or volume (i.e., air flow rate) of air flowing into the enclosed space S through the air distribution balancer 14 and the air booster 16. This causes an increase in the air pressure (i.e., an increase) in the enclosed space S, thereby increasing the air pressure difference.

[0257] Under an underpressure condition, if the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b, the signal indicates that the motor 70 increases the opening size at the first inlet 42 (i.e., the fresh air inlet). This causes an increase in the amount or volume of fresh air that can enter the chamber 52 and flow through the air flow distribution balancer 14 and the air booster 16 and then into the enclosed space S. This increase in the fresh air flow into the enclosed space S causes an increase in the air pressure in the enclosed space S, thereby increasing the air pressure difference.

[0258] Conversely, when the controller 11 determines that the pressure sensor 18 senses that the air pressure difference has risen to or above a predetermined value or risen above a predetermined value range (i.e., the steady state condition of the pressure parameter), it indicates an overpressure condition. When the controller 11 receives from the pressure sensor 18 a signal indicating that the air pressure difference has risen to or above a predetermined value or above a predetermined value range, the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the air booster 16 and / or the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b to adjust their operation.

[0259] Under an overpressure condition, if the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the air booster 16, the signal indicates that the motor reduces the speed of the motor of the air booster 16. This reduces the speed of the motor, thereby reducing the speed of the fan or impeller of the air booster 16. This causes a decrease in the amount or volume (i.e., air flow rate) of air flowing into the enclosed space S through the air distribution balancer 14 and the air booster 16. This causes a decrease in the air pressure (i.e., a decrease) in the enclosed space S, thereby reducing the air pressure difference.

[0260] Under overpressure conditions, if the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b, the signal indicates that the motor 70 reduces the opening size at the first inlet 42 (i.e., the fresh air inlet). This results in a decrease in the amount or volume of fresh air that can enter the chamber 52 and flow through the airflow distribution balancer 14 and the air booster 16 and then into the enclosed space S. This reduction in the fresh air flow into the enclosed space S causes a decrease in the air pressure in the enclosed space S, thereby reducing the pressure difference.

[0261] Accordingly, the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the air booster 16 and / or the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b in response to a signal received from the pressure sensor 18 indicating an overpressure condition or an underpressure condition, to adjust the speed of the motor of the air booster 16 (by increasing or decreasing) and / or move the gate 48 / 48b to maintain the pressure difference at a predetermined value or within a predetermined value range.

[0262] If the signal received by the controller 11 from the pressure sensor 18 indicates that the pressure difference is consistent with or within the predetermined value range, the output signal sent by the controller 11 indicates that the motor of the air booster maintains the current motor speed, i.e., the speed of the motor remains unchanged, and indicates that the motor 70 maintains the gate 48 / 48b in its current position, i.e., the position of the gate 48 / 48b remains unchanged.

[0263] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), at least two pressure sensors (not differential pressure sensors) may be provided. In this alternative embodiment where two pressure sensors are provided, one pressure sensor senses the air pressure in the enclosed space S inside the chamber C, while the second pressure sensor senses the air pressure outside the chamber C (i.e., outside the enclosed space S). Each of these pressure sensors sends a signal related to the air pressure sensed by the corresponding pressure sensor to the controller 11, i.e., a signal indicating the respective sensed air pressure in the enclosed space S inside the chamber C and outside the chamber C. The controller 11 receives the signals from the two pressure sensors and calculates the pressure difference. Then, the controller 11 operates, and the system 1 operates in the manner described previously with reference to the embodiment where the pressure sensor 18 is a differential pressure sensor.

[0264] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the pressure being monitored is the air pressure in the enclosed space S. The pressure sensor is arranged to sense the air pressure within the enclosed space S. The pressure sensor sends a signal to the controller 11 that is related to the air pressure sensed by the pressure sensor, i.e., a signal indicative of the air pressure sensed in the enclosed space S within the chamber C. The controller 11 receives the signal from the pressure sensor. In this embodiment, the system operates to maintain the sensed air pressure within the enclosed space S within a range such that the sensed air pressure is higher than a selected value to maintain a positive pressure within the enclosed space S. The selected value is a value that is chosen to be a desired amount greater than the expected air pressure outside the enclosed space S. The controller 11 acts, and the system of this embodiment operates in a manner similar to that described hereinabove with reference to the embodiment in which the pressure sensor 18 is a differential pressure sensor. The difference is that, in this embodiment, the controller 11 responds to a signal from the pressure sensor indicative of the air pressure in the enclosed space (rather than a signal indicative of a pressure difference).

[0265] In most applications, it is advantageous to use the differential pressure as a parameter for the controller 11 to control the operation of the system components as described hereinabove. Using the differential pressure allows the desired differential pressure to be set, and the system will operate to maintain the differential pressure setting regardless of changes in the air pressure outside or inside the enclosed space S.

[0266] Airflow distribution balancer - Second embodiment (different sized inlets)

[0267] In the following description of the operation of the system 1, the system 1 includes the airflow distribution balancer 14a of the second embodiment.

[0268] When the airflow distribution balancer 14a of the second embodiment is used in the system 1, the system 1 operates in a manner that is substantially similar to that described hereinabove with reference to the operation when using the airflow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment. The difference is that, due to the different cross-sectional areas of the first inlet 42a and the second inlet 44a, the movable door 48 will disproportionately change the amount or volume of fresh air and recirculated air entering the airflow distribution balancer 14a into the chamber 52 of the airflow distribution balancer 14a.

[0269] Airflow distribution balancer - Third embodiment (2 - motors / 2 - doors)

[0270] In the following description of the operation of the system 1, the system 1 includes the airflow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment.

[0271] When using the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment in system 1, system 1 operates in a manner substantially similar to that described hereinabove with reference to the operation when using the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment. The difference is that since the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 have respective doors 48b, and the two doors 48b can move independently, each door 48b can be moved to adjust the opening size of its inlet 42 or 44 without changing the opening size of the other inlet 44 or 42. Compared with the air flow distribution balancer using only a single door 48, this provides greater control over the respective amounts or volumes of fresh air and recirculated air that can flow into the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b. In addition, the controller 11 is operably communicable with each motor 70 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b. Thus, the controller 11 can generate corresponding output signals that are sent to each motor 70 of the air flow distribution balancer 14b to control the operation of the respective motors 70. The motors 70 are operated to move the respective doors 48b to the desired positions.

[0272] Air Flow Distribution Balancer - Fourth Embodiment (Combination of Second and Third)

[0273] In the following description of the operation of system 1, system 1 includes the air flow distribution balancer of the fourth embodiment.

[0274] When using the air flow distribution balancer of the fourth embodiment in system 1, system 1 operates in a manner substantially similar to that described hereinabove with reference to the operations of the air flow distribution balancers 14, 14a, and 14b of the first, second, and third embodiments. The difference in the cross-sectional areas of the first inlet 42 and the second inlet 44 results in a disproportionate change in the amounts or volumes of fresh air and recirculated air that can flow into the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer, and the two independently movable doors 48b provide greater control over the amounts or volumes of fresh air and recirculated air that can flow into the chamber 52 of the air flow distribution balancer.

[0275] CO 2 Monitoring

[0276] Regarding the operation of system 1 when the controller 11 receives a signal from the CO 2 sensor 22 in system 1, system 1 operates in a manner similar to that described hereinabove with reference to the operation when the controller 11 receives a signal from the pressure sensor 18 in system 1. In this regard, increasing the fresh air flow will simultaneously increase the pressure and also reduce the CO 2 concentration in the enclosed space S.

[0277] Each CO 2 sensor 22 is operably communicable with the controller 11. Each CO 2The sensor 22 provides an input signal related to the CO level in the enclosed space S to the controller 11. 2 The system 1 operates to keep the CO level in the enclosed space S 2 below a predetermined value (i.e., the predetermined CO 2 value).

[0278] Other gas monitoring

[0279] If the vehicle equipped with the system 1 operates in an environment where one or more undesirable gases (e.g., H 2 S, SO 2 and / or refrigerant gas, e.g., R-1234YF) may exist, the filter 31 includes an activated carbon filter as described previously herein. Figure 1B The system 1b including an activated carbon filter as one of the filters 31 is shown. In Figure 1B , the activated carbon filter is denoted by the reference numeral 31a. In Figure 1B , the activated carbon filter 31a is shown as being disposed in the fresh air flow F. The activated carbon filter 31a is disposed upstream of the first inlet 42 of the air flow distribution balancer 14. The activated carbon filter 31a is disposed downstream of the air pre-cleaner 32. The activated carbon filter 31a is disposed upstream of the air flow sensor 24 disposed in the fresh air flow F. The fine particulate filter (denoted by the reference numeral 31b in Figure 1B ) is disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter 31a (i.e., the activated carbon filter 31a is disposed downstream of the filter 31b). The fine particulate filter 31b is disposed downstream of the air pre-cleaner 32.

[0280] When the activated carbon filter 31a is included in the embodiments of the system described herein, at least one fine particulate filter is further included. If two (or more) such fine particulate filters are included, at least one fine particulate filter is disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter, and at least one fine particulate filter is disposed downstream of the activated carbon filter 31a. This arrangement is illustrated in Figure 1B . Figure 1B The fine particulate filter 31b disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter 31a is shown. In Figure 1B , the filter 31 ( Figure 1A the same is the case in

[0281] Regarding Figure 1BOperation of system 1b as shown, when controller 11 receives a signal from gas sensor 26 in system 1 which monitors other undesirable gases in enclosed space S, system 1 operates in a manner similar to that described previously herein with reference to the operation when controller 11 receives a signal from pressure sensor 16 or CO 2 sensor 22. In this regard, increasing the fresh air flow will simultaneously increase the pressure and also reduce the concentration of other undesirable gases being monitored in enclosed space S.

[0282] In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the figures), activated carbon filter 31a is provided downstream of the air flow distribution balancer in a single air flow A (instead of or in addition to the activated carbon filter 31a in fresh air flow F as Figure 1B shown). However, since the activated carbon filter 31a in single air flow A filters air from both fresh air flow F and recirculation air flow R, it is generally not necessary to also have an activated carbon filter 31a in fresh air flow F. Fine particle filter 31 is provided upstream of activated carbon filter 31a in single air flow A. For example, in the Figure 1B embodiment of system 1b shown, this can be fine particle filter 31b in fresh air flow F; however, if there is no fine particle filter 31b in fresh air flow F, then fine particle filter 31 in single air flow A will be positioned upstream of activated carbon filter 31a in single air flow A. Thus, activated carbon filter 31a will be positioned in single air flow A such that it is positioned between fine particle filter 31 and enclosed space S (specifically air outlet unit U). As described previously herein, activated carbon filter 31a in single air flow A filters air from both fresh air flow F and recirculation air flow R. Thus, if an undesirable gas is present in recirculation air flow R (e.g., this can occur if the operator opens the door of chamber C and undesirable gas enters enclosed space S from outside the enclosed space S), activated carbon filter 31a in single air flow A will filter the undesirable gas after the undesirable gas flows through the air flow distribution balancer in recirculation air flow R and becomes part of single air flow A. On the other hand, if activated carbon filter 31a is located in fresh air flow F (as Figure 1B shown), the level of undesirable gas in enclosed space S can be reduced by increasing the filtered fresh air flow F to simply dilute the undesirable gas.

[0283] In another alternative embodiment (not shown in the figures), activated carbon filter 31a is provided in recirculation air flow R (in addition to the Figure 1BThe activated carbon filter 31a) shown in the fresh air stream F. If the activated carbon filter 31a is arranged in the recirculation air stream R, increasing the recirculation air stream R will result in a reduction in the level of undesirable gases in the enclosed space S. This is because an increase in the recirculation air stream R will cause more air to flow in the recirculation air stream R and thus pass through the activated carbon filter 31a. By moving the door 48 of the air flow distributor balancer 14 to increase the opening size of the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air stream R), the volume or amount of air flowing in the recirculation air stream R can be increased.

[0284] If only one fine particle filter 31 is provided in a system having the activated carbon filter 31a, it is advantageous to arrange the fine particle filter 31 upstream of the activated carbon filter 31. This is because the fine particle filter 31 removes particles from the air, while the activated carbon filter 31a removes undesirable gases from the air but cannot effectively remove most of the particles from the air. Therefore, positioning the fine particle filter 31 upstream of the activated carbon filter 31a means that the air passing through the activated carbon filter 31a (after passing through the fine particle filter 31) is relatively free of debris that could otherwise damage the carbon bed in the activated carbon filter 31a or reduce its efficiency. If two fine particle filters 31 are provided in a system having the activated carbon filter 31a, positioning one of the two fine particle filters 31 downstream of the activated carbon filter 31a will capture the carbon particles that have decomposed in the activated carbon filter 31a. The fine particle filter 31 located downstream of the activated carbon filter 31a is under a very small load relative to the fine particle filter 31 located upstream of the activated carbon filter 31a. Therefore, if the upstream fine particle filter 31 is a suitable high-grade filter, such as a HEPA or similar grade filter, the fine particle filter 31 located downstream of the activated carbon filter 31a can be a lower grade filter compared to the fine particle filter 31 located upstream of the activated carbon filter 31a.

[0285] Each gas sensor 26 is operably communicable with the controller 11. Each gas sensor 26 provides an input signal to the controller 11 that is related to the level of undesirable gases in the enclosed space S. The system 1 operates to maintain the level of such undesirable gases in the enclosed space S below a predetermined value (i.e., a predetermined undesirable gas value).

[0286] Dust monitoring

[0287] Each dust sensor 20 is operably communicable with the controller 11. Each dust sensor 20 provides an input signal to the controller 11 that is related to the dust level in the enclosed space S. The system 1 is operable to maintain the dust level in the enclosed space S below a predetermined value (i.e., a predetermined dust value).

[0288] If the controller 11 receives a signal from the dust sensor 20 indicating that the dust level in the enclosed space S has risen above a predetermined value, the system 1 operates to reduce the sensed dust level below the predetermined value. This is achieved by enhancing the filtration of the air in the enclosed space S to enhance the removal of dirt and dust from the air in the enclosed space S. The filtration of the air in the enclosed space S is enhanced by drawing in more air from the enclosed space S via the third duct 33c, which then flows in the recirculation air stream R and through the filters in the air flow distribution balancer 14 and the air booster 16 and any additional filters 31. This is achieved by the controller 11 generating and sending an output signal to the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b to increase the opening size at the second inlet 44 / 44a of the air flow distribution balancer. Additionally, the speed of the motor of the air booster 16 is increased, which increases the recirculation air stream R. Since the recirculation air stream R enters the air flow distribution balancer 14 via the second inlet 44 / 44a, the increased amount or volume of recirculated air will flow through the air flow distribution balancer 14 and through the filters in the air booster 16 and any additional filters 31. This results in an increased amount or volume of filtered recirculated air (from the enclosed space S). That is, the filtration rate of the air (from the enclosed space S) by the filters in the system 1 is increased. The increased filtration rate removes more dirt and dust particles from the air in the enclosed space S.

[0289] Once the controller 11 receives a signal from the dust sensor 20 indicating that the dust level has dropped below the predetermined value (i.e., the steady state condition of the dust parameter), the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor 70 associated with the AND gate 48 / 48b to reduce the size of the opening at the second inlet 44 / 44a of the air flow distribution balancer 14. Then, the gate 48 / 48b returns to its original position, and the amount or volume of recirculated air flowing through the air flow distribution balancer 14 and through the filters in the air booster 16 and any additional filters 31 returns to its original level.

[0290] If the signal received by the controller 11 from the dust sensor 20 indicates that the dust level is consistent with or within the predetermined value range, the output signal issued by the controller 11 indicates that the motor 70 holds the gate 48 / 48b in its current position.

[0291] Thus, to control the dust level, the system 1 increases the amount or volume of the recirculation air stream R flowing into the enclosed space S, while keeping the pressure or CO 2 and undesirable gases at the predetermined value, the system increases the amount or volume of the fresh air stream F flowing into the enclosed space S.

[0292] Airflow Monitoring

[0293] Regarding the operation of System 1, when the controller 11 receives a signal from the air flow sensor 24 in System 1, the controller may issue an output signal to the motor of the air supercharger and / or the motor 70 of the doors 48 / 48b.

[0294] Each air flow sensor 24 is operably communicable with the controller 11. Each air flow sensor 24 provides an input signal to the controller 11 related to the air flow at the location of the air flow sensor 24. System 1 operates to maintain the air flow in System 1 above a corresponding predetermined value (i.e., the predetermined air flow value). This ensures that a desired level of fresh filtered air and recirculated filtered air from the air supercharger 16 is delivered to the enclosed space S. As described earlier herein, air flow sensors 24 are provided in the fresh air flow F, the recirculated air flow R, and the individual air flow A, providing input signals to the controller 11 from corresponding locations in each of these air flows.

[0295] The signal provided by the air flow sensor 24 to the controller 11 is also used to verify the positioning of the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer to proportionally distribute fresh air and recirculated air at the correct ratio.

[0296] In response to the signal received from the air flow sensor 24, the controller 11, by generating and sending an output signal to the motor of the air supercharger 16 (to increase or decrease the speed of the motor) and / or the motor 70 of the doors 48 / 48b (to move the doors 48 / 48b), in the manner described earlier herein, with necessary modifications, maintains the air flow at the corresponding predetermined air flow value and / or ensures that an appropriate ratio of fresh air to recirculated air entering the air flow distribution balancer is maintained.

[0297] System - Second Embodiment

[0298] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of System 2 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space S installed in a vehicle having a cabin C.

[0299] The components and features of the system 2 of the second embodiment are similar to those of the system 1 of the first embodiment, except that the system 1 employs an air supercharger 16 without a filter and a separate filter 31 in a single air stream A between the air supercharger 16 and the air outlet unit U, while the system 2 has a filter in the air supercharger 16a of the system 2. The filter in the air supercharger 16a is typically a higher-grade filter and provides the filtering capacity of the filter 31 in the system 1 of the first embodiment to filter dirt and dust particles. Thus, for example, the filter in the air supercharger 16a may include a HEPA filter, a ULPA filter, an EPA filter, or other filters capable of filtering fine and small particles. However, if the filter in the air supercharger 16a does not provide the filtering level required for a particular environment, one or more separate filters 31 (as described hereinabove with reference to the system 1 of the first embodiment) may be provided in the system 2.

[0300] In other respects, the system 2 of the second embodiment and its use and operation are similar to those of the system 1 of the first embodiment described hereinabove.

[0301] System - Third to Seventh Embodiments

[0302] Figures 5 to 9 are schematic diagrams respectively showing the third to seventh embodiments of the systems 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in a closed space S installed in a vehicle having a compartment C. Each of the systems 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 is capable of providing an increased recirculation air flow R when required, as compared to the system 1 of the first embodiment or the system 2 of the second embodiment.

[0303] System - Third Embodiment

[0304] Figure 5 The components and features of the system 3 of the third embodiment schematically shown therein are similar to those of the system 1 of the first embodiment, except that in the system 3, the recirculation air flow R is provided with a blower B and a bypass valve 79 (also referred to herein as the "first bypass valve"). In particular, the air return unit N is provided with a blower B and a bypass valve 79, as Figure 10 and 11 best shown in. The blower B includes a motor and a fan or an impeller. The motor drives the fan or the impeller of the blower B. The bypass valve 79 is capable of opening and closing to allow or prevent the air flow through.

[0305] The blower B and the controller 11 are operably communicable such that the controller 11 is capable of generating an output signal and sending it to the blower B to regulate and control the operation of the blower B, i.e., the speed of the fan or impeller of the blower B. The blower B is disposed inside the air return unit N adjacent to the air inlet I of the air return unit N. The blower B operates to draw air from the enclosed space S into the air return unit N.

[0306] The bypass valve 79 and the controller 11 are operably communicable such that the controller 11 is capable of generating an output signal and sending it to the bypass valve 79 to open and close the bypass valve 79. The bypass valve 79 is disposed in the wall W of the air return unit N. When the bypass valve 79 is open, the bypass valve 79 operates to allow air to flow from the air return unit N back into the enclosed space S. The bypass valve 79 allows a portion of the air from the enclosed space S (via the air return unit N) (on its way) to enter the recirculation air flow R to (alternatively) return to the enclosed space S. In other words, a portion of the air returns to the enclosed space S via the bypass valve 79 instead of entering the recirculation air flow R. The filter T filters the air before the air enters the air return unit N through the blower B. Thus, any air that enters the enclosed space S through the bypass valve 79 (when it is open) is filtered air. The filter T is disposed at the air inlet I of the air return unit N. The bypass valve 79 can be placed in a closed position (where air cannot flow through the bypass valve 79), an open position (where the bypass valve 79 is fully open, allowing maximum air flow through the bypass valve 79), or an intermediate position (where the bypass valve 79 is partially open, allowing air flow less than the maximum value through the bypass valve 79).

[0307] In addition to the blower B and the bypass valve 79, the system 3 is also provided with a pressure sensor 18a. The pressure sensor 18a is located on the downstream side of the blower B. The pressure sensor 18a is located inside the air return unit N.

[0308] The system 3 of the third embodiment is also suitable for adoption to comply with certain ISO standards. For example, the standard ISO 23875 for an enclosed space requires a decay time of 120 seconds. The decay time is defined according to this standard as the time taken for the chamber particulate concentration to decrease from 2000 - 5000 μg / m 3 to less than or equal to 25 μg / m 3 Many systems (including the system 1 of the first embodiment and the system 2 of the second embodiment described earlier in this document) may strive to provide sufficient recirculation air flow to comply with this standard; especially in the case of an enclosed space with an existing air conditioning system and a relatively large volume. This is because the air booster and the blower cannot overcome the limitations of the existing air conditioning ducts and particulate filters required by this standard. In contrast, the system 3 of the third embodiment that can provide an increased recirculation air flow R when needed can perform in a manner that complies with the ISO standard.

[0309] Use and operation: System - Third Embodiment

[0310] The following description of the use and operation of System 3 is limited to the use and operation resulting from the blower B, bypass valve 79, and pressure sensor 18a included in System 3. However, it should be understood that the use and operation of System 1 of the first embodiment described previously herein also apply to System 3 of the third embodiment.

[0311] In standard operation, the speed of the fan or impeller of blower B is matched to the demand of air supercharger 16 to supply sufficient air to recirculation airflow R. This maintains the pressure in the compartment housing blower B (in air return unit N) at the same pressure as the pressure in enclosed space S. In this regard, the pressure in enclosed space S serves as the reference pressure for pressure sensor 18a. It is expected that pressure sensor 18a detects the ambient pressure level inside blower B. Under standard or normal operating conditions, blower B supplies sufficient air to air supercharger 16. Under standard or normal operating conditions, bypass valve 79 is in the closed position. The closed position of bypass valve 79 is as Figure 10 shown.

[0312] If pressure sensor 18a senses a negative pressure reading (indicating a negative pressure in the third duct 33c), this indicates that air supercharger 16 is drawing in more air than blower B is supplying. When controller 11 receives an input signal from pressure sensor 18a indicating a negative pressure reading, the output signal generated by controller 11 and sent to blower B indicates that blower B increases the speed of the fan or impeller until the pressure sensed by pressure sensor 18a is equal to or greater than the ambient pressure. Bypass valve 79 remains in the closed position (as Figure 10 shown).

[0313] Conversely, if pressure sensor 18a senses a positive pressure reading (indicating a positive pressure in the third duct 33c), this indicates that the ducts and / or filters in System 3 are restricting the amount or volume of air that can flow in recirculation airflow R. When controller 11 receives an input signal from pressure sensor 18a indicating a positive pressure reading, controller 11 generates and sends an output signal to blower B to reduce the speed of the fan or impeller until the pressure sensed by pressure sensor 18a is within a predetermined range of the ambient pressure or the motor of blower B reaches a minimum predetermined speed. The minimum predetermined speed can correspond to the stall speed of the motor. In this standard operation, bypass valve 79 opens only when the motor of blower B has reached its minimum speed and a positive pressure is still sensed by pressure sensor 18a. When bypass valve 79 opens, some air is able to bypass the third duct 33c and instead flow back into enclosed space S from inside air return unit N. This provides sufficient recirculated air to enclosed space S. The open position of bypass valve 79 is asFigure 11 as shown Figure 11 It is shown that some air passes through the opening 35b inside the return air unit N and enters the third duct 33c (i.e., the recirculation air flow R), and some air bypasses the third duct 33c and flows back into the enclosed space through the open bypass valve 79 (as shown by the arrow P). Conversely, in Figure 10 , since the bypass valve 79 is closed, the air from the air return unit N can only flow into the duct 33c.

[0314] System 3 also provides a quick scrubbing or cleaning facility (also referred to herein as the scrubbing mode). In this regard, the controller 11 can generate an output signal and send it to the bypass valve 79 and the blower B to fully open the bypass valve 79 and maximize the speed of the fan or impeller of the blower B. This rapidly increases the air flow through the enclosed space S to scrub or clean the air in the enclosed space S. Other embodiments of systems 1, 2, and 4 to 10 described herein also provide a scrubbing mode. In the scrubbing mode, the recirculation air flow R is maximized. This can be achieved by adjusting the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer to allow the maximum recirculation air flow R (and the minimum fresh air flow F) to pass through. However, compared with the embodiments without the blower B and the bypass valve 79, the embodiments of the system with the blower B and the bypass valve 79 can achieve a greater recirculation air flow R. This is further described herein with reference to Figure 25C and 25D the scrubbing mode.

[0315] The input signal received by the controller 11 from the pressure sensor 18a (which indicates the pressure in the air return unit N) can be used to detect a blockage in the recirculation air flow R, such as a blockage caused by an obstacle in front of (i.e., on the upstream side of) the filter T. For example, if the pressure sensor 18a senses a negative pressure reading and the sensed pressure does not change significantly (i.e., increase) (e.g., by a predetermined amount) as the speed of the fan or impeller of the blower B increases, then the logic in the controller 11 can conclude that the filter T is blocked. Then the controller 11 can issue an alarm. The alarm indicates to the operator that maintenance is required and appropriate corrective measures can be taken.

[0316] System - Fourth Embodiment

[0317] Figure 6 The components and features of the system 4 of the fourth embodiment schematically shown in Figure 5 are similar to the components and features of the system 3 of the third embodiment, except that in system 4, the air booster 16 and the filter 31 are provided in the fresh air flow F flowing towards the fresh air inlet 42. Therefore, the air booster 16 and the filter 31 are provided on the upstream side of the air flow distribution balancer 14. As

[0318] In contrast, in the system 3 of the third embodiment, the air supercharger 16 and the filter 31 are provided on the downstream side of the air flow distribution balancer 14 in a single air flow A that exits the air flow distribution balancer 14.

[0319] In other respects, the system 4 of the fourth embodiment and its use and operation are similar to the system 3 of the third embodiment described previously herein.

[0320] System - Fifth Embodiment

[0321] In Figure 7 The components and features of the system 5 of the fifth embodiment schematically shown therein are similar to the components and features of the system 4 of the fourth embodiment, except that in the system 5, the order of the air supercharger 16 and the filter 31 is reversed. That is, in the system 5, fresh air flows from the pre-cleaner 32 through the filter 31 and then through the air supercharger 16. In contrast, in the system 4 of the fourth embodiment, fresh air flows from the pre-cleaner 32 through the air supercharger 16 and then through the filter 31.

[0322] In other respects, the system 5 of the fifth embodiment and its use and operation are similar to the system 4 of the fourth embodiment described previously herein.

[0323] System - Sixth Embodiment

[0324] In Figure 8 The components and features of the system 6 of the sixth embodiment schematically shown therein are similar to the components and features of the system 3 of the third embodiment (shown in Figure 5 ), except that the system 3 employs an air supercharger 16 (without a filter) and a separate filter 31 in a single air flow A between the air supercharger 16 and the air outlet unit U, while the system 6 uses a filter in the air supercharger 16a of the system 6. The filter in the air supercharger 16a of the system 6 is similar to the filter in the air supercharger 16a of the system 2 of the second embodiment described previously herein.

[0325] In other respects, the system 6 of the sixth embodiment and its use and operation are similar to the system 3 of the third embodiment described previously herein.

[0326] System - Seventh Embodiment

[0327] Figure 9 The components and features of the system 7 of the seventh embodiment schematically shown therein are similar to the components and features of the system 6 of the sixth embodiment, except that in the system 7, the air supercharger 16a is provided in the fresh air flow F flowing towards the fresh air inlet 42. Therefore, the air supercharger 16a is provided on the upstream side of the air flow distribution balancer 14. As Figure 9As shown, the air supercharger 16a is provided between the pre-cleaner 32 and the air flow sensor 24.

[0328] Conversely, in the system 6 of the sixth embodiment, the air supercharger 16a is provided on the downstream side of the air flow distribution balancer 14 in a single air flow A that exits the air flow distribution balancer 14.

[0329] In other respects, the system 7 of the seventh embodiment and its use and operation are similar to the system 6 of the sixth embodiment described previously herein.

[0330] System - Eighth Embodiment

[0331] Figure 27 FIG. is a schematic view showing an eighth embodiment of a system 8 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space S installed in a vehicle having a cabin C.

[0332] Although the embodiments of the systems described previously herein include a single air flow distribution balancer, the system 8 of the eighth embodiment includes two air flow distribution balancers. One air flow distribution balancer is for controlling the fresh air flow F, and the second air flow balancer is for controlling the recirculated air flow R.

[0333] The components and features of the system 8 of the eighth embodiment are similar to the components and features of the system 3 of the third embodiment, except that the system 3 has a single air flow distribution balancer 14 and the system 8 has two air flow distribution balancers, denoted by reference numeral 14d. The air flow distribution balancer 14d can be any one of the air flow distribution balancers 14# of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described previously herein, except that one of the inlets (i.e., the first inlet 42 / 42a or the second inlet 44 / 44a) is permanently closed or blocked. In the case of the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment, one of the doors 48b is permanently closed to prevent air flow through the corresponding inlet, whether it is the inlet 42 or the inlet 44. In the case of one embodiment of the other embodiments of the air flow distribution balancer used as the air flow distribution balancer 14d, one of the inlets is blocked such that only one of the inlets of the air flow distribution balancer 14d receives the air flow. Therefore, the movement of the door 48 is only for opening and closing one of the inlets, i.e., the inlet that can receive the air flow. One air flow distribution balancer 14d receives the fresh air flow F, and the other air flow distribution balancer 14d receives the recirculated air flow R.

[0334] Particularly referring to Figure 27 , the first air flow distribution balancer 14d is located in the fresh air flow F. The first air flow distribution balancer 14d is provided at a position similar to the position of the air flow distribution balancer 14 in the system 3. The first air flow distribution balancer 14d only receives the fresh air flow F. Figure 28Shows a first air flow distribution balancer 14d, where a fresh air inlet 42 is connected to the outlet of an air pre - cleaner 32. Thus, the first air flow distribution balancer 14d receives a fresh air flow F. The outlet 46 of the first air flow distribution balancer 14d is connected to the inlet 29 of an air supercharger 16.

[0335] A second air flow distribution balancer 14d is located in the recirculation air flow R. The second air flow distribution balancer 14d is located in the recirculation air flow R between an air return unit N and an air outlet unit U. The second air flow distribution balancer 14d only receives the recirculation air flow R. Figure 29 、 30 And 31 shows the second air flow distribution balancer 14d connected to the air return unit N and the air outlet unit U. A duct 33d extends from an opening 35c formed in the housing of the air return unit N to a second inlet 44 of the second air flow distribution balancer 14d. The second air flow distribution balancer 14d receives the recirculation air flow from the air return unit N via the second inlet 44. A duct 33e extends from the outlet 46 of the second air flow distribution balancer 14d to an opening formed in the housing of the air outlet unit U. The recirculation air flow R flows from the second air flow balancer 14d to the air outlet unit U via the duct 33e.

[0336] Two separate air flow distribution balancers 14d that correspondingly control the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R allow independent control of the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R.

[0337] This independent control of the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R is also achieved in an embodiment of a system using the air flow distribution balancer 14b of the third embodiment, which system has separate doors 48b for each inlet 42 / 44. However, in system 8, the control of the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R occurs at two separate locations of the first and second air flow distribution balancers 14d.

[0338] In system 8, both the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R flow through their respective first and second air flow distribution balancers 14d. The fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R enter the air outlet unit via their respective ducts 33b (fresh air flow F) and 33e (recirculation air flow R). Fresh air and recirculation air (in the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R) are mixed into a single air flow in the air outlet unit U and are discharged from the air outlet unit U, as Figure 29 shown by reference numeral 36a in.

[0339] As used in system 8, in a situation where the fresh air flow F and the recirculation air flow R cannot be directed to the same air flow distribution balancer, it may be desirable to use two separate air flow distribution balancers 14d.

[0340] While embodiments of Systems 1 through 7 (described earlier herein) include a duct 33c extending from the air return unit N to the air flow distribution balancer 14, such a duct 33c is not required in System 8 because recirculated air is not conveyed to the first air flow distribution balancer 14d located at the rear of the chamber C.

[0341] In other respects, System 8 of the eighth embodiment and its use and operation are similar to System 3 of the third embodiment described earlier herein.

[0342] Air Flow Distribution Balancer - Fifth Embodiment (One Inlet)

[0343] Figure 32 A fifth embodiment of the air flow distribution balancer 14e is shown. The air flow distribution balancer 14e can be used as Figures 27 to 31 the air flow distribution balancer in the eighth embodiment of the System 8 shown.

[0344] The air flow distribution balancer 14e includes only a single inlet. The single inlet receives a fresh air stream F or a recirculated air stream R.

[0345] The air flow distribution balancer 14e is similar to the air flow distribution balancer 14 of the first embodiment, except that the air flow distribution balancer 14e has only one inlet, while the air flow distribution balancer 14 has two inlets 42 and 44. In the air flow distribution balancer 14e, instead of the second inlet, the housing 40 is continuously formed without an inlet.

[0346] Comparison Figure 12 and 32 shows that in the air flow distribution balancer 14e, the first inlet 42 is omitted, and the air flow distribution balancer 14e has only the second inlet 44. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the air flow distribution balancer 14e may omit the second inlet 44 and have only the first inlet 42 as a single inlet.

[0347] The air flow distribution balancer 14e can be used and function in the same manner as the air flow distribution balancer 14d described earlier herein.

[0348] Alternative Air Return Unit

[0349] Figure 33 and 34 respectively show for Figures 5 to 32Cross-sectional and exploded views of alternative embodiments of the air return unit NR of the third to eighth embodiments of the systems shown differently. The air return unit NR is similar to the air return unit N described previously herein with respect to other embodiments of the system, except that the air return unit NR has a radial filter TR. In contrast, the filter T described previously herein with respect to other embodiments of the system is a panel filter. The filter TR is positioned around the fan or impeller of the blower B. The air return unit NR may be provided with two air inlets I for sucking in air, as shown by reference numeral 36b. The air sucked into the air return unit NR via the air inlets passes through the filter TR and then through the blower.

[0350] In other respects, the air return unit NR and its use and operation are similar to the air return unit N described previously herein.

[0351] System - Ninth Embodiment (Modified HVAC System - One Filter)

[0352] Figure 35 is a schematic view showing a ninth embodiment of a system 9 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space S installed in a vehicle having a compartment C.

[0353] As an alternative to the embodiments of the system described previously herein, the system 9 includes modifications to an existing (or expected conventional) HVAC system for the enclosed space S. In particular, Figure 36 and 37 the air outlet unit UM shown is modified to include a high-capacity blower 16b. The air outlet unit UM may also be provided with a bypass valve 79a (also referred to herein as the "second bypass valve"). The bypass valve 79a is capable of opening and closing to allow or prevent air flow through.

[0354] In a conventional HVAC system, fresh air and recirculated air are sucked into a compartment containing an evaporator and a heater for air conditioning and a blower for moving air. The air pushed by the blower is then directed into the ducts of the HVAC system to be distributed to the compartment or other enclosed spaces. In the configuration of the system 9, the incoming fresh air stream F and the recirculated air stream R are combined (i.e., mixed) and controlled by an air flow distribution balancer 14, as in other embodiments of the system described previously herein. However, a high-capacity blower 16b is included in the system 9 (instead of the conventional blower that would be present in a conventional HVAC system) to provide the function of an air flow generator.

[0355] Air flow generator - Second embodiment

[0356] In embodiments of the systems described previously herein (i.e., embodiments of systems 1 to 8), the air flow generator is provided in the form of an air booster 16. However, in system 9, the air flow generator is provided in the form of a blower 16b. The blower 16b includes a motor and a fan or impeller. The motor drives the fan or impeller of the blower 16b. The blower 16b is set as a high-capacity blower. An existing (or expected conventional) HVAC system for the enclosed space S is modified to replace the conventional blower (in the HVAC system) with the high-capacity blower 16b. Regarding the capacity of the blower, for example, while a conventional blower may have a capacity in the range of approximately 150 to 250 CMH (cubic meters per hour), the high-capacity blower 16b generally has a capacity in the range of 200 to 700 CMH.

[0357] In system 9, the high-capacity blower 16b generates a fresh air flow F and a recirculation air flow R. Therefore, the air booster 16 / 16a used in other embodiments of the systems described previously herein is not required in system 9. Since system 9 does not include the air booster 16 / 16a, the filter (if any) in the air booster 16a is also not included in system 9. However, system 9 includes one or more filters 31 as described previously herein with reference to other embodiments. At least one of these filters 31 is a fine particulate filter. The filter 31 is provided upstream of the enclosed space S. As Figure 35 shown, the filter 31 may be provided downstream of the air flow distribution balancer 14. The filter 31 is provided in the duct extending from the air flow distribution balancer 14 to the compartment C. This duct is identified as ducts 33a and 33b in Figure 36 and 37 . The location of the filter 31 can be seen in Figure 35 , 36 and 37. The filter 31 can be a radial filter. Since system 9 does not include the air booster 16 / 16a, the first duct 33a extends from the outlet 46 of the air flow distribution balancer 14 to the filter 31. The second duct 33b extends from the filter 31 to the air outlet unit UM.

[0358] Use and operation

[0359] The high-capacity blower 16b and the controller 11 are operably communicable such that the controller 11 is capable of generating an output signal and sending it to the high-capacity blower 16b to regulate and control the operation of the high-capacity blower 16b. The bypass valve 79a and the controller 11 are operably communicable such that the controller 11 is capable of generating an output signal and sending the output signal to the bypass valve 79a to open and close the bypass valve 79a. The bypass valve 79a is disposed in the wall WM of the air outlet unit UM. The bypass valve 79a can be placed in a closed position (where air cannot flow through the bypass valve 79a), an open position (where the bypass valve 79a is fully open, allowing maximum air flow through the bypass valve 79a), or an intermediate position (where the bypass valve 79a is partially open, allowing less than maximum air flow through the bypass valve 79a). The closed position of the bypass valve 79a is as Figure 36 shown. The fully open position of the bypass valve 79a is as Figure 37 shown. When the bypass valve 79a is open (i.e., fully open or partially open), the bypass valve 79a operates to allow air to flow from the air outlet unit UM into the enclosed space S. The bypass valve 79a allows a portion of the air in the outlet air flow A (in the air outlet unit UM) (on its way into the enclosed space S) to be directed into the enclosed space S via the bypass valve 79a (instead of via the air outlet unit UM).

[0360] may include a bypass valve 79a to maximize the filtration of the recirculated air and achieve the desired decay time (as described earlier herein). Similar to the bypass valve 79 in the third embodiment of system 3, the position of the bypass valve 79a of system 9 is controlled by the pressure within the HVAC system. System 9 is provided with a pressure sensor 18b. The pressure sensor 18b is located on the downstream side of the high-capacity blower 16b. The pressure sensor 18b is located inside the air outlet unit UM. The pressure sensor 18b can be a differential pressure sensor.

[0361] If the pressure sensor 18b senses a significant increase in air pressure within the system (i.e., within the air outlet unit UM) (e.g., a configurable predetermined increase in air pressure), the controller 11 generates and sends an output signal to the blower 16b to reduce the speed of the fan or impeller until the pressure sensed by the pressure sensor 18b is within a predetermined range of the ambient pressure, or the motor of the blower 16b reaches a minimum predetermined speed. The minimum predetermined speed can correspond to the stall speed of the motor. In this standard operation, the bypass valve 79a opens only when the motor of the blower 16b has reached its minimum speed and a positive pressure is still sensed by the pressure sensor 18b. When the bypass valve 79a is open, some air (i.e., air flow Q) (as Figure 37As shown, it can flow into the enclosed space S through it. The air flow Q causes a pressure drop in the air outlet unit UM sensed by the pressure sensor 18b; correspondingly, the sensed air pressure increases in the enclosed space S. The air flow Q bypasses the downstream evaporator, heater, and ducts. The evaporator and heater in the air outlet unit UM are denoted by the reference numeral EH. The bypass valve 79a is located upstream of the evaporator and heater EH. Positioning the bypass valve 79a upstream of the evaporator and heater EH avoids the air flow Q passing through the bypass valve 79a being restricted by the evaporator and heater EH. Conversely, if the pressure sensor 18b senses a drop in the air pressure within the air outlet unit UM (e.g., a configurable predetermined drop in air pressure), the controller 11 sends a signal to the bypass valve 79a to close the bypass valve 79a (if it is open), thereby preventing the air flow Q from passing through it. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 11 sends a signal to the motor of the blower 16b to increase the speed of the motor. This increases the rotational speed of the fan or impeller of the motor. Increasing the rotational speed of the fan or impeller increases the amount or volume of air inhaled by the blower 16b through the air outlet unit UM. This causes an increase in the air pressure within the air outlet unit UM.

[0362] System - Tenth Embodiment (Modified HVAC System - Two Filters)

[0363] Figure 38 FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a tenth embodiment of a system 10 for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space S installed in a vehicle having a cabin C.

[0364] In Figure 38 The components and features of the system 10 of the tenth embodiment schematically shown are similar to the components and features of the system 9 of the ninth embodiment, except that there are two filters 31 in the system 10.

[0365] The first filter 31 is provided upstream of the air flow distribution balancer 14. The first filter 31 is provided upstream of the first inlet 42 (for the fresh air flow F) of the air flow distribution balancer 14. Thus, the first filter 31 only filters the air in the fresh air flow F. The first filter 31 is provided upstream of the enclosed space S. The position of the first filter 31 can be seen in Figure 38 、 39 and 40. The first filter 31 can be a radial filter. The first duct 33a extends from the outlet 46 of the air flow distribution balancer 14 to the air outlet unit UM.

[0366] The second filter 31 is provided upstream of the air flow distribution balancer 14. The second filter 31 is provided upstream of the second inlet 44 (for the recirculation air flow R) of the air flow distribution balancer 14. Therefore, the second filter 31 only filters the air in the recirculation air flow R. The second filter 31 is provided downstream of the enclosed space S. The position of the second filter 31 can be seen at Figure 38 , 39 and 40. The second filter 31 can be a panel filter. The second filter 31 can be located on the housing H of the chamber C at the opening 35b.

[0367] In other respects, the system 10 of the tenth embodiment and its use and operation are similar to the system 9 of the ninth embodiment described previously herein.

[0368] Use and Operation - Supplement

[0369] As described previously herein in the foregoing portions of the use and operation of systems 1-10 and the monitoring of various environmental parameters, the controller 11 generates an output signal in response to an input signal received by the controller 11 from the sensor 12 and sends it to the motor of the air supercharger 16 / 16a or the blower 16b and / or the motor 70 of the door 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer. The output signal generated and sent by the controller 11 controls the operation of the motor to adjust the speed of the fan or impeller of the air supercharger 16 / 16a or the blower 16b and / or the position of the door 48 / 48b. After reaching the set point pressure by adjusting the speed of the air supercharger 16 / 16a or the blower 16b, the position of the door 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer is changed. In addition, as described previously herein in the foregoing portions of the use and operation of systems 3-8 and the monitoring of various environmental parameters, in the case of systems 3-8, the controller 11 also generates an output signal in response to an input signal received by the controller 11 from the sensor 12 and sends it to the blower B and the bypass valve 79. The output signal generated and sent by the controller 11 controls the operation of the blower B and the bypass valve 79. Similarly, in the case of systems 9 and 10, the controller 11 also generates an output signal in response to an input signal received by the controller 11 from the sensor 12 and sends it to the blower 16b and the bypass valve 79a. The output signal generated and sent by the controller 11 controls the operation of the blower 16b and the bypass valve 79a.

[0370] The logic in the controller 11 determines whether to adjust the speed of the motor of the air supercharger 16 / 16a or the blower 16b, or to move the door 48 / 48b to a different position. For example, the controller 11 can use a cost function to make the determination.

[0371] For example, in most environments where Systems 1-10 are employed, the main sensor is Pressure Sensor 18. Thus, if only one type of sensor 12 is used, it is typically one or more pressure sensors 18. However, in typical applications, one or more CO 2 sensors 22 may also be included. In such applications, it is preferred for the system 1-10 to maintain the pressure level at a predetermined value or within a predetermined range, and to maintain the CO 2 level below a predetermined value. As described elsewhere herein, other system applications may further include one or more particulate (or dust) sensors and / or gas sensors. The particulate and gas levels are similarly controlled to keep them below predetermined values.

[0372] Flowchart

[0373] By way of example, Figure 25A 、 Figure 25B 、 Figure 25C 、 Figure 25D and Figure 26 show flowcharts that can be used to implement the control system operation procedures of Systems 1-10 described previously herein. For ease of illustration and understanding, the main operation procedures after system startup have been divided into three separate flowcharts, herein identified as "Normal System Operation"( Figure 25A ), "Calibration Function Operation"( Figure 25B ), and "Air Quality Inspection Operation"( Figure 25C ); in addition, the operation procedures of "Scrubbing Mode Operation" and "Cost Function Operation" are separately shown in Figure 25D and Figure 26 respectively.

[0374] Figure 25A ("Normal System Operation") shows an exemplary embodiment of the control process followed by the system when powered on. Figure 25B ("Calibration Function Operation") shows an exemplary embodiment of the control process for optimizing the motor speed of the supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower B / 16b and the position of the door (48 / 48b) of the airflow distribution balancer 14#; the calibration function will run at the first startup or when triggered by the user. Figure 25C ("Air Quality Inspection Operation") shows an exemplary embodiment of the control process using the air quality sensor 12 to respond to excessive internal particulates, excessive internal CO 2 excess, excessive internal gas, or excessive external gas; if all sensed values are within the configured thresholds (i.e., predetermined values or predetermined ranges), the air quality inspection is exited. Figure 25D ("Scrubbing Mode Operation") shows an exemplary embodiment of the control process for filtering the air within the enclosed space S; when a high particulate concentration is sensed within the enclosed space S and there is no internal CO2 When there is an excess or internal gas excess, the scrubbing mode is initiated. Figure 26 ("Cost function operation") shows an exemplary embodiment of a control process for adjusting the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# when the motor speeds of the supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower B / 16b have drifted from the optimized value during calibration; if the motor speed (speed_F) of the supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower B / 16b at the set point pressure has drifted by a predetermined amount above its calibrated value, the cost function is triggered; a similar function can be used when speed_F has drifted by a predetermined amount below its calibrated value.

[0375] Thus, referring specifically to Figure 25A , at startup or power-on (1001), the sensor 12 is initialized (1002), and then the system process checks the calibration of the motor speeds of the supercharger 16 / 16a and the blower B / 16b as well as the position of the doors (48 / 48b) of the air flow distribution balancer 14# (1003); the calibration optimizes the motor speed and the door position. If calibration is required, the system process moves to the calibration function (1004).

[0376] Calibration function

[0377] The calibration function (1004) is at Figure 25BShown separately. When the calibration function (1004) starts (1005), the output signal from the controller 11 in systems 1 - 10 will instruct the motor 70 to move the door 48 / 48b to fully open the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a (and close the recirculation air inlet 44 / 44a) (1006). This pressurizes the enclosed space S (i.e., increases the pressure in the enclosed space S) and disturbs any dirt and dust that may have accumulated in systems 1 - 10 (e.g., in the enclosed space S, ducts, air return units N or NR, or air outlet units U or UM). A predetermined time period may be allowed for this process. The predetermined time period may be configurable. The operating pressure control function (1007) is run, whereby the controller 11 instructs the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b to adjust the speed of the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b to reach and then maintain a set point pressure (i.e., a predetermined differential pressure value), while incrementally moving the door 48 / 48b to open the recirculation air inlet (1008); this increases the opening size of the recirculation air inlet 44 / 44a (and decreases the opening size of the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a). Since these actions include reducing the size of the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a, it is necessary to increase the speed of the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b. This continues until the increase in the motor speed required to maintain the set point pressure is disproportionate to the increase in the recirculation air flow R. When the change in the position of the door 48 / 48b causes a disproportionate increase in the speed of the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b, the controller 11 stops adjusting the speed of the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b and the position of the door 48 / 48b and maintains the optimal settings. For example, when a change of x% in the recirculation air flow requires a disproportionate increase in the speed of the motors of the air booster 16 / 16a and / or the blower to maintain the pressure within a predetermined value or range of predetermined values, this relationship can be defined, where x is a predetermined adjustment step. The predetermined adjustment step x is determined experimentally. It is desirable that the predetermined adjustment step x is large enough such that the system can quickly converge to the equilibrium air flow ratio of fresh air and recirculation air, but small enough such that it does not risk skipping the optimal operating solution. Experimental determination shows that the predetermined adjustment step x changes by approximately 1.5 degrees in the position of the door 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14#. The cost function relationship that controls how the air booster 16 / 16a or the blower 16b and the air flow distribution balancer 14# change is represented by the more general terms α, β, and δ. Thus, Figure 25BIt is shown that a change in the speed of the motor of the air supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b (step 1010) greater than an α% change in the recirculation air flow rate (airflow_R) results in a reduction of βx% in the area dimension of the opening of the recirculation air inlet 42 / 42a of the airflow distribution balancer 14# (1011). The reduction in the area dimension of the opening of the recirculation air inlet 42 / 42a of the airflow distribution balancer 14# (1011) continues until the operation of the motor of the air supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b (1012) requires a change in the speed of the motor of the air supercharger 16 / 16a and / or the blower 16b to be less than a δ% change in the recirculation air flow rate (airflow_R) (1013).

[0378] This operation is represented by two loops in Figure 25B which the first loop includes 1008, 1009 and 1010, and the second loop includes 1011, 1012 and 1013.

[0379] By further explaining Figure 25B the first and second loops in, the recirculation air flow rate (airflow_R) is checked, represented by 1010 (in the first loop) and 1013 (in the second loop). Due to the shape of the airflow distribution balancer 14#, the change in the recirculation air flow R restriction is different for each step. The change in the air flow is physically checked and compared with the change in the motor speed (which is performed to maintain the set point pressure). In the first loop (including 1008, 1009 and 1010), the airflow distribution balancer 14# takes a relatively large step to increase the recirculation air flow R until it exceeds the steady state operation. In the second loop (including 1011, 1012 and 1013), the airflow distribution balancer 14# takes a relatively small step and moves the doors 48 / 48b in the opposite direction to reduce the recirculation air flow R. Thus, the processes performed by the first and second loops enter the desired steady state operation. The aim is to find the point at which the motor has to make a large (greater) adjustment for the same change in the recirculation air flow R.

[0380] At the end of the calibration process, the system state is saved to a memory (such as a non-volatile memory) (1014) for use in a cost function (for comparing the current supercharger speed with the saved speed (speed_F_saved)) and returning to the system state after a power cycle. Then the calibration function is exited (1015).

[0381] Once calibrated, the system enters a loop that checks the sensor readings, and in response to air quality values outside its configured thresholds, adjusts the motor speed of the air booster 16 / 16a / blower 16b to maintain a set point pressure and ultimately adjusts the position of the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# to compensate (by reducing or increasing the restriction to the fresh air flow F path) for any significant changes made by the pressure control loop to the motor speed of the air booster 16 / 16a / blower 16b.

[0382] Return Figure 25A , if the check of calibration (1003) indicates that calibration is not required, the system process bypasses the calibration function and instead restores the system state from memory using the previously stored system state (1016). Whether the system process performs calibration or bypasses the calibration function, it then moves to the air quality check (1017).

[0383] Air quality check (including flush mode and scrub mode)

[0384] The air quality check (1017) is shown separately in Figure 25C . At the start of the air quality check (1018), the first action is to save the current system state to memory (1019) and receive air quality data from the sensor 12 (such as CO 2 , other undesirable gases, particulates, but no pressure) (1020). The data from the sensor 12 is used to check for the presence of an excess, such as whether the readings exceed its configured thresholds. This is represented for internal excess (i.e., excess inside the enclosed space S) by 1021 and for external excess (i.e., excess outside the enclosed space S) by 1022. If an excess is detected, the current state of the system (i.e., the motor speed of the air booster 16 / 16a / blower 16b and the position of the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14#) is saved to memory, the system process remains in the air quality check function, and responds to the detected excess (and any other excesses detected) before the system returns to its initial state (represented by 1023). Then the air quality check is exited (represented by 1024), and the system process returns to normal system operation ( Figure 25A shown).

[0385] Air quality check - detailed description

[0386] By a more detailed description of the air quality check process shown in Figure 25C , 1021 represents that the controller 11 receives an input signal from the sensor 12 that monitors for internal excess. If no sensor 12 detects that any of the monitored internal environmental parameters have exceeded their predetermined values or ranges of predetermined values, the process proceeds along Figure 25CProceed along the "No" trajectory shown. This process trajectory can also monitor environmental parameters outside the enclosed space S, as indicated by 1022 in Figure 25C . In this regard, a suitable sensor 12 can be provided to monitor environmental parameters outside the enclosed space S. Such a sensor 12 typically includes one or more CO 2 sensors 22 and / or gas sensors 26; however, it can include one or more dust sensors 20. If no sensor 12 detects that any of the monitored external environmental parameters have exceeded their predetermined values or ranges of predetermined values, the operation process proceeds along the "No" trajectory to restore the system to its initial state (1023), and then exits the air quality check (1024), as described earlier herein.

[0387] If any of the sensors 12 senses that one of the monitored environmental parameters has exceeded its predetermined value or range of predetermined values, the operation process continues along the Figure 25C relevant "Yes" trajectory shown, as further described herein. This process trajectory includes actions taken in response to whether any of the sensors 12 senses that an internal excess (1021) or an external gas excess (1022, 1027) has occurred. An internal excess can be a high level of an undesired gas (e.g., CO 2 or other undesired gas) in the enclosed space S (internal gas or CO 2 excess 1025) or a high level of particulates in the enclosed space S (internal particulate excess 1026). An external gas excess can be a high level of an undesired gas outside the enclosed space S (1022, 1027).

[0388] Figure 25C Includes an operation process for the system's response if an undesired (e.g., hazardous) gas is detected. The system's response can vary depending on whether the system has an activated carbon filter in the fresh air path. For example, if the system has an activated carbon filter and the level of an external (i.e., outside the enclosed space S) undesired gas is sensed as excessive, the system can operate as normal. The following table summarizes the system's responses to various cases of internal and / or external excesses and whether the system has an appropriate filter.

[0389]

[0390] Figure 25C The key responses of the system shown include the responses described below, which are described with reference to the eight cells A1 to D2 shown in the table.

[0391] If internal gas or CO 2In the case of an excess (1025), the system will check for an external gas excess (1027). If the data received by the controller 11 from the relevant sensors 12 indicates no external gas excess, the system will activate the purge mode (1028). In this case, the purge mode will be activated regardless of whether the system is equipped with a gas filter (i.e., regardless of whether the system has an activated carbon filter in the fresh air flow path) [cells B1 - Filter and B2 - No Filter in the table]. This is because if there is no external gas excess, the outside air does not contain an excessive level of undesirable gases; thus, the purge mode can be activated to draw fresh air into the enclosed space S regardless of whether the system has a suitable filter for gas filtration. This is represented in Figure 25C by the "No" process trace leading to the "Purge" mode 1028.

[0392] In the case of an internal gas or CO 2 excess (1025) and the data received by the controller 11 from the relevant sensors 12 indicates that there is also an external gas excess, the system will activate the purge mode (1028) [cell A1 in the table]. This is represented in Figure 25C by the "Yes" process trace from checking whether a gas filtration device is installed (1029) to the purge mode 1028. Since the system is equipped with a suitable filter, the air drawn in from outside the enclosed space will be filtered to remove undesirable gases before being delivered to the enclosed space S.

[0393] In the purge mode 1028, the system maximizes the fresh air flow, thereby diluting the undesirable gases with filtered fresh air. The purge mode uses the air from outside the enclosed space S to replace the air inside the enclosed space S as quickly as possible. The presence of the auxiliary blower and / or bypass valve 79 / 79a in the system does not affect the operation of the purge mode. The purge mode is used to respond to all cases of high CO 2 and other undesirable gases within the enclosed space. If a gas filter is installed at the fresh air inlet, the purge mode also responds to gas excess within the enclosed space. The controller 11 will increase the speed of the motor of the fresh air booster / blower 16 / 16a to 100% and fully open the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# for the fresh air inlet.

[0394] If the system does not have an activated carbon filter and both the internal and external levels of undesirable gases are sensed as excessive, the system will issue an alarm (step 1030). This is represented in Figure 25CIt is represented by the "No" process trajectory from checking whether the gas filtration device (1029) is installed to the alarm 1030. The alarm 1030 notifies the personnel of the danger, and the personnel can take appropriate actions. In this case, for example, the appropriate actions may include repositioning the enclosed space S (if the enclosed space is the cabin of a vehicle) to a location without excessive external gas, so that the flushing mode can be activated. However, it should be noted that if there is any possibility that the enclosed space will operate in a location where external gas overdose may be encountered, a suitable filter should be installed in the system as described earlier in this article.

[0395] If there is no internal gas or CO 2 excess (1025) and the data received by the controller 11 from the sensor 12 indicates the presence of external gas excess (1022), then Figure 25C Two process trajectories are shown, which start from checking whether there is a gas filtration device 1031, for the case where a filter is installed and the case where no filter is installed. In the case where a suitable filter is installed in the system, the process follows the "Yes" trajectory to reach the recovery state 1023 [cell D1 in the table], and then reaches the exit 1024. In the case where a suitable filter is not installed in the system, the process follows the "No" trajectory to perform Figure 25C 100% recirculation (1032) in 2 [cell D2 in the table]. In the 100% recirculation air flow R (1032), no fresh air flow F will be sucked into the air flow distribution balancer 14#. This prevents the external air (with gas excess) from being sucked into the enclosed space S by the supercharger 16 / 16a. When the system operates in the 100% recirculation air flow R, the CO 2 level in the enclosed space S will rise relatively quickly. Therefore, the alarm 1030 is issued. The alarm 1030 is to warn the operator of the potential risk of staying in the enclosed space S in the case of rising CO

[0396] When operating with 100% recirculation air flow R (described earlier in this article), the door 48 / 48b also provides a physical boundary to the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a, thus allowing, for example, the fresh air flow F (to the air flow distribution balancer 14#) to be cut off in the case where the air quality outside the enclosed space S does not meet the predetermined quality level. For example, if the application of the system does not include an activated carbon filter 31a for filtering undesired gases (such as H 2 S, SO 2 and / or refrigerant gas, such as R-1234YF), and if the sensed concentration of such gas exceeds a predetermined value, the door 48 / 48b can move so that the fresh air flow F is reduced or cut off, thereby reducing the health risk to the personnel in the enclosed space S.

[0397] Figure 25C also includes an operational process of the system response if a particulate level in the enclosed space S is detected to be too high (excessive internal particulates 1026). This is Figure 25C identified as the "scrubbing" mode 1033 in

[0398] The scrubbing mode 1033 reduces the level of excessive dirt and dust (i.e., particulates) in the enclosed space S. Figure 25D The scrubbing mode 1033 is shown separately in

[0399] At the start (1034) of the scrubbing mode (1033), the controller 11 will increase the recirculation air flow rate as much as possible by instructing all motors in the recirculation air flow R to run at 100% speed (1035) and opening the recirculation air inlet 100% (1036). If there is an available auxiliary blower with a bypass valve (Embodiments 3 to 8), the bypass valve is fully opened (1037, 1038). However, it may be necessary to maintain some pressure within the enclosed space S during this process. Therefore, a pressure check 1039 is included in the scrubbing mode such that the controller 11 will move the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# to increase the opening of the fresh air inlet (i.e., decrease the opening of the recirculation air inlet - 1039) until the pressure in the enclosed space S is higher than a configurable "scrubbing pressure" threshold ("pressure_S"), as shown in 1040. For example, the value of pressure_S can be set to 20 Pa. Then the scrubbing mode is exited (1041).

[0400] Pressure control

[0401] Returning to Figure 25A , Figure 25AThe next step shown is pressure control 1042. The pressure control operation is used to regulate the motor speed of the fresh air supercharger / blower to maintain a set point pressure. As more and more particulates accumulate in the filter, they increasingly restrict the air flow, and more power is required to push air through the filter (e.g., increasing the motor speed for the same air flow). As the seal of the enclosed space S (sealing the enclosed space S from the outside) deteriorates over time, the leakage from the enclosed space S increases. Both will result in a pressure drop in the enclosed space S, such that the system will need to be adjusted to maintain the pressure. If the filter is replaced or the seal is repaired / replaced, the pressure in the enclosed space S will increase (for the same motor speed), and the system will again need to be adjusted to maintain the set point pressure.

[0402] The pressure control can be a PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control process, which is used to regulate the fresh air supercharger / blower motor speed to achieve the set point pressure. The PID controller can also be used to adjust the position of the doors 48 / 48b of the air distribution balancer 14# to achieve the set point pressure. This also occurs in the pressure control loop. The pressure control loop will also recognize a zero (0 Pa) pressure in the enclosed space S when the door / window is open and enter a fault state until some pressure is restored in the enclosed space (i.e., the door / window has been closed again). This is because it is not possible to pressurize an enclosed space with such severe leakage as when a door or window is open, so the system "waits" until it can operate normally again.

[0403] Cost function

[0404] The cost function 1044 is Figure 25A The last processing action shown. The cost function 1044 is at Figure 26Shown separately in and starting at 1045. The purpose of the cost function is to check whether the operation of the pressure control function over time causes the motor speed of the air supercharger / blower to deviate significantly (referred to as drift) from the optimal value found during the calibration process. Using the supercharger / blower motor after calibration to maintain the setpoint pressure means that the motor speed will increase with load or poor seals while the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# remain fixed. The cost function allows comparison of the current motor speed with the motor speed at the time when the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# were last adjusted. (The doors 48 / 48b are adjusted first during calibration). If the motor speed has drifted significantly, the system will move the doors 48 / 48b to reduce the restriction on the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a until the motor speed (regulated to maintain the setpoint pressure) is somewhere between the two compared speeds. (By experiment, this value is at the midpoint between the two values). This ensures that both the doors 48 / 48b and the air supercharger motor are used to compensate for filter loading. Reducing the restriction on the fresh air inlet 42 / 42a will increase the restriction in the recirculated air inlet 44 / 44a and reduce the recirculated air flow rate. The effect of the cost function is that if the recirculated air flow rate (airflow_R) is already at or near its configured minimum value (1046), the doors 48 / 48b will not move. Additionally, it will check whether the motor speed is already at or near its configured maximum value (1047). If both conditions are true, an alarm will be issued to check the filter and seals (1048) and proceed to end 1049. If the recirculated air flow rate is not at or near its configured minimum value, the process flow proceeds to 1050 to reduce the recirculated air flow rate through pressure control (1051).

[0405] Exit at 1049 Previously , the cost function saves the new motor speed and door position to non-volatile memory (as shown at 1055), such that the system can return to this state rather than the calibrated state after a power cycle. At Figure 26 , the check is to calculate whether the current speed of the motor (speed_F) is greater than the saved value from calibration (speed_F_saved) plus the configured drift value (drift_F), as represented at 1052. If so, the system enters the cost function process, where the system adjusts the doors 48 / 48b of the air flow distribution balancer 14# until the motor speed required to maintain pressure is reduced to a level that is still greater than the saved value (speed_F_saved) but less than the configured drift value. This level is expressed as "speed_F > (speed_F_saved + δ drift_F)". If not (i.e., speed_F < speed_F - saved (1053)), the recirculated air is increased (1054) and the process flow returns to pressure control (1051).

[0406] In the above example, the position of the door 48 / 48b is fixed after calibration and is only adjusted when the cost function is triggered. The system can alternatively be used in the opposite manner, where the motor speed of the fresh air booster / blower is fixed and the airflow distribution balancer 14# is used to maintain the pressure level within the enclosed space until the cost function is triggered and the motor speed is adjusted to compensate for significant movement of the door. However, it is generally preferred to first change the motor speed of the air booster 16 / 16a as changing the motor speed of the air booster 16 / 16a is generally faster and more continuous.

[0407] Airflow

[0408] In the systems 1, 1b, 2, 3, 6 of the first, second, third, and sixth embodiments, the airflow generator in the form of an air booster 16 (systems 1, 1b, and 3) or 16a (systems 2 and 6) is located downstream of the airflow distribution balancer (and upstream of the enclosed space S); the air booster 16 or 16a generates a fresh airflow F and a recirculation airflow R; in systems 3 and 6, the blower B also generates a recirculation airflow R.

[0409] In the systems 9 and 10 of the ninth and tenth embodiments, the airflow generator in the form of a high-capacity blower 16b is located downstream of the airflow distribution balancer (and upstream of the enclosed space S); the high-capacity blower 16b generates a fresh airflow F and a recirculation airflow R.

[0410] In the systems 4, 5, and 7 of the fourth, fifth, and seventh embodiments, the airflow generator in the form of an air booster 16 (systems 4 and 5) or 16a (system 7) is located upstream of the airflow distribution balancer (and upstream of the enclosed space S); the air booster 16 or 16a generates a fresh airflow F; the blower B generates a recirculation airflow R.

[0411] In the system 8 of the eighth embodiment, the airflow generator in the form of an air booster 16 is located downstream of the first airflow distribution balancer that controls the fresh airflow F (and upstream of the enclosed space S); the air booster 16 generates a fresh airflow F; the blower B generates a recirculation airflow R.

[0412] Features

[0413] The various features and combinations of features disclosed herein are set forth in the following paragraphs:

[0414] A system for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space.

[0415] An airflow distribution balancer. The airflow distribution balancer can be a component of a system for monitoring and controlling the air quality in an enclosed space.

[0416] A system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space, the system comprising:

[0417] A controller;

[0418] One or more sensors for monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space;

[0419] At least one air flow distribution balancer for receiving a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space and a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space;

[0420] An air flow generator for generating at least the first air flow of external air,

[0421] Wherein the controller and the one or more sensors are operably communicable such that in use, the controller is able to receive one or more input signals from the one or more sensors, and the controller is able to generate one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals, the one or more output signals being sent to the air flow distribution balancer and / or the air flow generator to control the operation of the air flow distribution balancer and / or the air flow generator by adjusting the volume of external air and / or the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality within the enclosed space.

[0422] The air flow distribution balancer includes at least one inlet for allowing air to enter the air flow distribution balancer as an inlet air flow and an outlet for allowing air to leave the air flow distribution balancer as an outlet air flow.

[0423] The air flow distribution balancer includes a chamber for receiving air entering the air flow distribution balancer via the at least one inlet.

[0424] The air flow distribution balancer includes at least one door that is movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

[0425] In use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in an intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open, respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and out through the outlet.

[0426] The air flow distribution balancer includes at least one motor, wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor is capable of operating to move the at least one door.

[0427] The at least one motor is capable of operating to move the at least one door in response to a signal received from the controller.

[0428] The air flow distribution balancer includes a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet. The first inlet and the second inlet each receive an inlet air flow.

[0429] The first inlet receives a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space, and the second inlet receives a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space.

[0430] The outlet air flow exits the air flow distribution balancer through the outlet.

[0431] As described previously herein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors that are movable to a selected position.

[0432] The air flow distribution balancer includes a first motor and a second motor, wherein the respective doors and the first motor and the second motor are operably connected such that the first motor and the second motor are capable of operating to move the respective doors.

[0433] The system includes a first air flow distribution balancer for receiving the first air flow of the external air and a second air flow distribution balancer for receiving the second air flow of the internal air.

[0434] The first bypass valve allows a portion of the air from the enclosed space to return to the enclosed space rather than enter the second air flow.

[0435] A first filter is used to filter the air before the portion of the air returns to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

[0436] A second bypass valve directs a portion of the outlet air flow into the enclosed space.

[0437] The second filter is used to filter the air before guiding a portion of the air into the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

[0438] The air flow generator is positioned such that it can draw air from at least outside the enclosed space and guide the air into the enclosed space.

[0439] The air flow generator is located outside the enclosed space. In one or more other embodiments, the air flow generator is located inside the enclosed space.

[0440] The air passing through the air flow generator is guided into the enclosed space.

[0441] The system includes a duct for enabling air flow through the system.

[0442] The air flow generator includes an air booster.

[0443] The air flow generator includes a blower.

[0444] Depending on the specific application of the system, the air flow generator can be in the form of an air booster or a blower.

[0445] The blower is provided as a high-capacity blower.

[0446] The one or more sensors can include one or more of the following sensors: at least one pressure sensor for sensing the pressure inside and outside the enclosed space (i.e., differential pressure sensing) or the pressure inside the enclosed space; at least one dust sensor for sensing the presence of dirt or dust particles in the enclosed space; at least one CO 2 sensor for sensing the presence of CO 2 in the enclosed space; at least one air flow sensor for sensing the air flow; and / or at least one gas sensor.

[0447] The one or more sensors include at least one pressure sensor.

[0448] The at least one gas sensor includes one or more gas sensors for sensing the presence of gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and / or refrigerant gases such as R-1234YF.

[0449] The system includes an air pre-cleaner to pre-clean the air before the air received from outside the enclosed space enters at least one inlet of the air flow distribution balancer.

[0450] The system includes at least one particulate filter for filtering particulate material from at least a first airflow of external air.

[0451] The at least one particulate filter is provided as a separate filter.

[0452] The at least one particulate filter is disposed in the air booster.

[0453] The system further includes at least one activated carbon filter for filtering unwanted gases from at least the first airflow and / or the outlet airflow.

[0454] The at least one particulate filter is disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter.

[0455] An airflow distribution balancer, the airflow distribution balancer comprising:

[0456] A housing having at least a first inlet and an outlet;

[0457] A chamber located inside the housing;

[0458] At least one door movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position,

[0459] Wherein, in use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in the intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and out through the outlet.

[0460] The airflow distribution balancer further includes at least one motor, wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor can operate to move the at least one door.

[0461] The airflow distribution balancer includes a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet.

[0462] As described previously herein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors that can move to selected positions.

[0463] The air flow distribution balancer includes a first motor and a second motor, wherein the respective doors and the first and second motors are operatively connected such that the first and second motors are capable of operating to move the respective doors.

[0464] A method for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space, the method comprising:

[0465] monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space;

[0466] generating at least a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space by an air flow generator;

[0467] receiving the first air flow of external air and a second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer;

[0468] delivering air from the at least one air flow distribution balancer to the enclosed space in the form of an outlet air flow;

[0469] generating one or more input signals indicative of the one or more environmental parameters in the enclosed space;

[0470] generating one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals;

[0471] sending the one or more output signals to the air flow distribution balancer and / or the air flow generator to control the operation of the air flow distribution balancer and / or the air flow generator by adjusting the volume of external air and / or the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality in the enclosed space.

[0472] In the method, receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer includes receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air at a single air flow distribution balancer.

[0473] In the method, receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer includes receiving the first air flow of external air at a first air flow distribution balancer and receiving the second air flow of internal air at a second air flow distribution balancer.

[0474] The method further includes returning a portion of the air from the enclosed space to the enclosed space via a first bypass valve without allowing the portion of the air to enter the second air flow.

[0475] The method further includes filtering the air before returning the portion of the air to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

[0476] The method further includes directing a portion of the air in the outlet air stream to the enclosed space via a second bypass valve.

[0477] The method further includes filtering the air before directing the portion of the air to the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

[0478] Although one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described previously herein, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments and may be implemented in other ways, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0479] Each feature, structure, or characteristic of each aspect or embodiment disclosed herein may be combined with any or all of the features, structures, or characteristics of other aspects or embodiments. Additionally, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be appropriately combined in one or more aspects or embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0480] Modifications and variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space, the system comprising: a controller; one or more sensors for monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space; at least one airflow distribution balancer for receiving a first airflow of external air from outside the enclosed space and a second airflow of internal air from inside the enclosed space; an airflow generator for generating at least the first airflow of external air, wherein the controller and the one or more sensors are operably communicable such that in use, the controller is configured to receive one or more input signals from the one or more sensors, and the controller is configured to generate one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals, the one or more output signals being sent to at least one of the airflow distribution balancer and the airflow generator to control the operation of at least one of the airflow distribution balancer and the airflow generator respectively by adjusting at least one of the volume of external air and the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality within the enclosed space.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, the airflow distribution balancer includes at least one inlet for allowing air to enter the airflow distribution balancer as an inlet airflow and an outlet for allowing air to leave the airflow distribution balancer as an outlet airflow.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, the airflow distribution balancer includes a chamber for receiving air entering the airflow distribution balancer via the at least one inlet.

4. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the airflow distribution balancer includes at least one door that is movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, in use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in the intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and out through the outlet.

6. The system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, the airflow distribution balancer includes at least one motor, and wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor can operate to move the at least one door.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one motor is operable to move the at least one door in response to a signal received from the controller.

8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first inlet for receiving the first air flow, a second inlet for receiving the second air flow, and an outlet for discharging the air flow.

9. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors that are movable to a selected position.

10. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, the air flow distribution balancer includes a first motor and a second motor, and wherein the respective doors and the first and second motors are operably connected such that the first and second motors are operable to move the respective doors.

11. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the system includes a first air flow distribution balancer for receiving the first air flow of the external air and a second air flow distribution balancer for receiving the second air flow of the internal air.

12. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first bypass valve to allow a portion of the air from the enclosed space to return to the enclosed space rather than enter the second air flow.

13. The system according to claim 12, further comprising a first filter to filter the air before the portion of the air returns to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

14. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 13, further comprising a second bypass valve to direct a portion of the air flow at the outlet into the enclosed space.

15. The system according to claim 14, further comprising a second filter to filter the air before the portion of the air is directed into the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

16. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow generator is positioned such that it can suck air from at least outside the enclosed space and direct the air into the enclosed space.

17. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow generator is located outside the enclosed space.

18. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow generator is located inside the enclosed space.

19. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow generator includes an air booster.

20. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the air flow generator includes a blower.

21. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more sensors include one or more of the following sensors: at least one pressure sensor for sensing the pressure inside and outside the enclosed space (i.e., differential pressure sensing) or the pressure within the enclosed space; at least one dust sensor for sensing the presence of dirt or dust particles in the enclosed space; at least one CO 2 sensor for sensing the presence of CO 2 in the enclosed space; at least one airflow sensor for sensing the flow of air; and / or at least one gas sensor.

22. The system according to claim 21, wherein, the at least one gas sensor includes one or more gas sensors to sense the presence of one or more gases.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein, The one or more gases include hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and / or refrigerant gas.

24. The system according to claim 23, wherein, the refrigerant gas includes R-1234YF.

25. The system according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises an air pre - cleaner to pre - clean the air before the air received from outside the enclosed space enters the at least one inlet of the air flow distribution balancer.

26. The system according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises at least one particulate filter to filter particulate material from at least a first air stream of the outside air.

27. The system according to claim 26, wherein, the at least one particulate filter is provided as a separate filter.

28. The system according to claim 26 or 27, wherein, the at least one particulate filter is disposed in the air booster.

29. The system according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises at least one activated carbon filter to filter unwanted gases from at least the first air stream and / or the outlet air stream.

30. The system according to claim 29, wherein, the at least one particulate filter is disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter.

31. An air flow distribution balancer, the air flow distribution balancer comprises: a housing having at least a first inlet and an outlet; a chamber located inside the housing; at least one door movable to a selected position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed when the at least one door is in a first position, fully open when the at least one door is in a second position, and partially open and partially closed when the at least one door is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position, wherein, in use, when the at least one door is in the first position such that the at least one inlet is fully closed, air cannot flow through the at least one inlet, and when the at least one door is in the second position or in the intermediate position such that the at least one inlet is fully open or at least partially open respectively, air can flow through the at least one inlet into the chamber and out through the outlet.

32. The air flow distribution balancer according to claim 31 further comprises at least one motor, wherein the at least one door and the at least one motor are operably connected such that the at least one motor can operate to move the at least one door.

33. The air flow distribution balancer according to claim 31 or 32, wherein, the air flow distribution balancer further comprises a second inlet.

34. The air flow distribution balancer according to claim 33, wherein, the first inlet and the second inlet are provided with respective doors movable to selected positions.

35. The air flow distribution balancer according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein, the air flow distribution balancer comprises a first motor and a second motor, and wherein the respective doors and the first motor and the second motor are operably connected such that the first motor and the second motor can operate to move the respective doors.

36. A method for monitoring and controlling air quality in an enclosed space, the method comprises: monitoring one or more environmental parameters inside the enclosed space; An air flow generator generates at least a first air flow of external air from outside the enclosed space; Receive the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer; Deliver the air from the at least one air flow distribution balancer to the enclosed space in the form of an outlet air flow; Generate one or more input signals indicating one or more environmental parameters within the enclosed space; Generate one or more output signals in response to the one or more input signals; Send the one or more output signals to at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator to control the operation of at least one of the air flow distribution balancer and the air flow generator by adjusting at least one of the volume of external air and the volume of internal air delivered to the enclosed space, thereby controlling one or more environmental parameters related to the air quality within the enclosed space.

37. The method according to claim 36, wherein, Receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer includes: Receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air at a single air flow distribution balancer.

38. The method according to claim 36, wherein, Receiving the first air flow of external air and the second air flow of internal air from inside the enclosed space at at least one air flow distribution balancer includes: Receiving the first air flow of external air at a first air flow distribution balancer and receiving the second air flow of internal air at a second air flow distribution balancer.

39. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 38, further comprising returning a portion of the air from the enclosed space to the enclosed space via a first bypass valve without allowing the portion of the air to enter the second air flow.

40. The method according to claim 39, further comprising filtering the air before returning the portion of the air to the enclosed space via the first bypass valve.

41. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 37, further comprising guiding a portion of the air in the outlet air flow into the enclosed space via a second bypass valve.

42. The method according to claim 41, further comprising filtering the air before guiding the portion of the air into the enclosed space via the second bypass valve.

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