Air handling system integrating a direct air capture module with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning device and control method thereof

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field, in particular to an air treatment system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating ventilation air conditioning device and a control method thereof. The system comprises an HVAC module containing a fresh air inlet, a filter, a mixing point, a fan, a temperature and humidity adjusting unit and an air supply outlet connected in sequence, and further comprises an air return main pipe and an air exhaust outlet; and a DAC module provided with an air inlet, a purified air outlet, a regeneration energy input interface and a CO2 product output port. The system provided by the application realizes efficient coupling of the DAC module and the HVAC through air path cooperation and energy cooperation, adjusts target nodes in the first to fourth nodes to adjust air flow directions for different operation modes, realizes dynamic regulation and control of an air flow path, and enhances the ability of the HVAC module to improve indoor air quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technology, and in particular to an air handling system and control method that integrates a direct air capture module with an HVAC unit. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, mainstream DAC technologies are mainly divided into two categories: solid-state adsorption (S-DAC) and liquid-state adsorption (L-DAC). However, they generally suffer from problems such as high energy consumption, high cost, and low efficiency. Since the CO2 concentration in the air is only 0.04%, the capture process requires processing a large amount of air, and the regeneration of the adsorbent usually requires high temperatures, resulting in huge energy consumption and limiting its economic feasibility. On the other hand, existing DAC technologies mostly adopt an independent operation mode, lacking effective integration with existing building facilities, making it difficult to achieve synergistic effects.

[0003] To address this technical challenge, existing technologies attempt to integrate DAC technology with building HVAC systems to improve the system's energy efficiency. However, there is still considerable room for improvement in areas such as reducing energy consumption during capture, increasing system integration, and achieving intelligent control.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new technology solution that can significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs, improve CO2 capture efficiency, and be seamlessly integrated with building HVAC systems, so as to promote the development of DAC technology towards a more efficient, economical and practical direction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide an air handling system and control method that integrates a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, comprising:

[0007] The HVAC module includes a fresh air inlet, filter, mixing point, fan, temperature and humidity control unit and air supply outlet connected in sequence. The HVAC module also includes a return air main and an exhaust outlet.

[0008] The DAC module is equipped with an air inlet, a purified air outlet, a regenerative energy input interface, and a CO2 product output port;

[0009] The integrated interface unit includes first to fourth nodes. The first node connects the return air main duct to the air inlet, the second node connects the exhaust vent to the air inlet, the third node connects the downstream of the mixing point to the air inlet, and the fourth node selectively connects the return air main duct or the fresh air inlet to the air inlet through a bypass duct.

[0010] The energy coupling component receives waste heat and / or moisture generated by the HVAC module through a regenerative energy input interface for energy regeneration.

[0011] The control module dynamically selects one or more nodes from the first to fourth nodes and adjusts the opening of the air valve based on sensor data.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, a first air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the first node and the air inlet, and a second air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point;

[0013] When the first air valve is opened, the return air is purified by the DAC module and then returns to the mixing point through the second air valve.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, a third air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the second node and the air inlet, and a fourth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the exhaust outlet.

[0015] When the third and fourth air valves are open, the exhaust air is purified by the DAC module and then directly discharged through the fourth air valve.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, a fifth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the third node and the air inlet, and a sixth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the fan;

[0017] When the fifth air valve is opened, the mixed air is purified by the DAC module and then sent to the fan inlet through the sixth air valve.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, a seventh air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the fourth node and the air inlet, and an eighth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point.

[0019] When the seventh air valve is opened, the bypass airflow is purified by the DAC module and then sent back to the mixing point or designated area through the eighth air valve.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, the energy coupling component includes:

[0021] The heat recovery unit is used to collect the waste heat generated during the operation of the HVAC module and the external supplementary heat source, and to introduce the collected heat into the DAC module for adsorbent regeneration.

[0022] The humidity coupling unit delivers the condensate generated by the surface cooler to the regenerative energy input interface.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, the DAC module uses an amine-based solid adsorbent, has a regeneration temperature range of 80-120℃, and receives 60-80℃ hot air from the condenser through the regeneration energy input interface.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a control method for an air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, characterized in that the method is applied to a control module in the system described above, and the method includes:

[0025] Get the current running data;

[0026] Based on the current operating data and the current operating mode, determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes;

[0027] The control valve corresponding to the target node is opened to guide the airflow through the DAC module for CO2 capture;

[0028] The current operating mode is one of the following: indoor air quality priority mode, carbon capture priority mode, energy saving priority mode, or local treatment mode.

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is the indoor air quality priority mode, and the current operating data includes indoor space CO2 concentration data;

[0030] Based on the current operating data and current operating mode, the steps to determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes include:

[0031] If the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space is higher than the first preset threshold, the first node or the third node is determined as the target node.

[0032] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is the carbon capture priority mode;

[0033] Based on the current operating data and current operating mode, the steps to determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes include:

[0034] If the current time period is a period when buildings are not occupied and / or a period of low electricity prices, the second node will be used as the target node.

[0035] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is the energy-saving priority mode;

[0036] Based on the current operating data and current operating mode, the steps to determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes include:

[0037] If the current period is a transitional season where the indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity deviation is less than the threshold and the heating and cooling load is small, the third node will be used as the target node.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is a local processing mode; the current operating data is the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space.

[0039] Based on the current operating data and current operating mode, the steps to determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes include:

[0040] For each area of ​​the indoor space, calculate the absolute value of the difference between the current CO2 concentration and the average CO2 concentration of the area to obtain the CO2 concentration difference of the area.

[0041] If there is a difference in CO2 concentration greater than the preset threshold, the fourth node will be used as the target node.

[0042] The embodiments of the present invention bring the following beneficial effects: This application provides an air handling system and its control method that integrates a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. The system includes: an HVAC module, comprising a fresh air inlet, a filter, a mixing point, a fan, a temperature and humidity control unit, and an air outlet connected in sequence; the HVAC module also includes a return air duct and an exhaust vent; a DAC module, having an air inlet, a purified air outlet, a regenerative energy input interface, and a CO2 product output port; an integrated interface unit, including first to fourth nodes, the first node connecting the return air duct and the air inlet, the second node connecting the exhaust vent and the air inlet, the third node connecting the downstream of the mixing point and the air inlet, and the fourth node selectively connecting the return air duct or the fresh air inlet to the air inlet via a bypass duct; an energy coupling component, receiving waste heat and / or waste moisture generated by the HVAC module for energy regeneration through the regenerative energy input interface; and a control module, dynamically selecting one or more of the first to fourth nodes based on sensor data and adjusting the opening of the air valve.

[0043] The method provided in this application efficiently couples the DAC module with the HVAC system through wind path coordination and energy coordination. By activating and adjusting the target nodes among the first to fourth nodes, the airflow direction can be adjusted for different operating modes to achieve dynamic control of the airflow path. This enhances the HVAC module's ability to improve indoor air quality and creates the possibility of resource utilization of CO2. It provides a practical technical path for achieving a highly efficient, energy-saving, and proactive carbon removal building environment control system, which is of great significance for promoting deep decarbonization and sustainable development in the building sector.

[0044] Other features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention. The objects and other advantages of the invention are realized and obtained in accordance with the structures particularly pointed out in the description, claims and drawings.

[0045] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of an air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a control method for an air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit, provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure label:

[0051] 130 - Processor, 131 - Memory, 132 - Bus, 133 - Communication interface. Detailed Implementation

[0052] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0053] To facilitate understanding of this embodiment, the technical terms used in this application will be briefly introduced below.

[0054] Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, a cutting-edge technology for actively removing CO2 from the air, was initially primarily applied to large-scale carbon removal to address climate change. However, researchers have gradually recognized the potential of DAC technology in small-scale, distributed applications, particularly in improving indoor air quality and enhancing building energy efficiency. Integrating DAC modules with HVAC modules, by capturing CO2 from indoor air, can theoretically significantly reduce the amount of fresh air required to dilute CO2, thereby substantially reducing HVAC energy consumption.

[0055] After introducing the technical terms used in this application, the application scenarios and design concepts of the embodiments of this application will be briefly described below.

[0056] While existing technologies provide technical means to combine DAC technology with building HVAC systems, there is still considerable room for improvement in areas such as reducing energy consumption during capture, increasing system integration, and achieving intelligent control.

[0057] Based on this, this application provides an air handling system and its control method that integrates a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit.

[0058] Example 1

[0059] This application provides an air handling system that integrates a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. The system includes: an HVAC module, a DAC module, an integrated interface unit, an energy coupling component, and a control module.

[0060] The HVAC module includes a fresh air inlet, filter, mixing point, fan, temperature and humidity control unit and air supply outlet connected in sequence. The HVAC module also includes a return air duct and an exhaust outlet.

[0061] The DAC module is equipped with an air inlet, a purified air outlet, a regenerative energy input interface, and a CO2 product output port.

[0062] The integrated interface unit includes a first to a fourth node. The first node connects the return air main duct to the air inlet, the second node connects the exhaust vent to the air inlet, the third node connects the downstream of the mixing point to the air inlet, and the fourth node selectively connects the return air main duct or the fresh air inlet to the air inlet through a bypass duct.

[0063] The energy coupling component receives waste heat and / or moisture generated by the HVAC module through the regenerative energy input interface for energy regeneration.

[0064] The control module dynamically selects one or more nodes from the first to fourth nodes based on sensor data and adjusts the opening of the air valve.

[0065] This application achieves flexible switching between different operating modes by setting up a multi-node interface and bypass duct structure, combined with a dynamic damper adjustment mechanism. Simultaneously, it constructs an energy coupling path to transfer low-grade waste heat from the HVAC module to the DAC module for the regeneration process, significantly reducing system energy consumption. This not only improves CO2 capture efficiency but also balances indoor air quality improvement with efficient energy utilization, offering multiple advantages such as environmental protection, energy saving, and automated control.

[0066] The HVAC module includes an air handling circuit and return and exhaust air circuits. Specifically, in the air handling circuit, outdoor air is introduced through the fresh air inlet, passes through a pre- or medium-efficiency filter to remove particulate matter, and then enters the mixing point to mix with a portion of the recirculated return air. The mixed air is then driven by a fan and passes through a temperature and humidity control unit (in conjunction with...). Figure 1The cooling coil and heating coil shown in the diagram are used to regulate temperature and humidity, and then the air that meets the requirements is delivered into the indoor space through the air supply outlet. In the return air and exhaust air circuit, the indoor air is collected by the return air inlet of the return air main, purified by the return air filter, and part of it is returned to the mixing point for recycling, while the other part flows directly to the exhaust outlet of the return air main and is discharged outdoors according to the operating mode requirements.

[0067] In the DAC module, the air to be processed enters the DAC unit through the air inlet (not shown in the figure), where the CO2 contained in the air is selectively adsorbed by the internal CO2 adsorbent. The purified air is discharged through the purified air outlet (not shown in the figure) and either enters the ventilation system or is directly released into the environment.

[0068] Once the adsorbent reaches saturation, the system switches to the regeneration phase. For example... Figure 1 The energy coupling component shown receives waste heat and moisture from the HVAC module or external low-grade energy through a regenerative energy input interface (not shown in the figure), regenerates the energy, and outputs high energy to power the DAC unit. This energy heats the adsorbent, causing it to release the captured CO2. The high-concentration CO2 generated in this process is discharged from the CO2 product output port (not shown in the figure) and transported to subsequent treatment stages (such as storage, utilization, or emission). Simultaneously, the waste gas generated during regeneration (containing some water vapor and heat) is discharged from the "regeneration waste gas outlet." To improve energy efficiency, a heat exchanger or total heat exchanger is introduced to preheat the regeneration airflow entering the DAC unit or the fresh air from the HVAC module, thereby reducing overall energy consumption. Furthermore, the energy coupling component manages the energy supply sources required for regeneration (such as HVAC waste heat or external energy) and the final destination of the captured CO2 (utilization, storage, or emission), achieving optimized resource allocation and energy recycling.

[0069] Understandably, temperature and humidity sensors, CO2 concentration sensors, and PM2.5 detectors are installed in the system to collect indoor air quality data (such as CO2 concentration and pollutant content) and thermal load data, which serve as the basis for adjusting the ratio of fresh air to return air. The control module adjusts the damper opening based on this data: for example, when indoor air quality is good and the load is low, the return air ratio is increased to reduce the energy consumption required for fresh air treatment; when CO2 concentration increases or pollutants increase, the fresh air ratio is increased to improve air quality; under extreme outdoor weather conditions, the fresh air ratio is appropriately reduced to reduce the air conditioning load. Through the coordinated action of multiple modules, the ratio of fresh air, return air, and exhaust air is flexibly adjusted according to indoor load and environmental conditions to achieve the optimized goals of energy saving and air quality control.

[0070] As an feasible approach, the temperature and humidity control unit includes a cooling coil, a heating coil, and a humidification or dehumidification module (not shown in the figure) connected in sequence to first cool and dehumidify, then heat up, and finally precisely regulate the humidity in order to improve energy efficiency and meet indoor air requirements.

[0071] In conjunction with the first aspect, a first air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the first node and the air inlet, and a second air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point; when the first air valve is open, the return air, after being purified by the DAC module, returns to the mixing point through the second air valve. Figure 1 As shown, the first node (P1) is connected to the return air main (including... Figure 1 The return air vent and return air filter shown are connected to the air inlet of the DAC module via a duct. A first air valve (marked V1 in the figure) is installed on the duct connecting the first node and the air inlet. When this first air valve is opened, part or all of the return air in the HVAC module is diverted to the DAC module. After air purification, it is discharged along the purified air outlet and passes through the opened second air valve (marked V2 in the figure) to the mixing point to mix with the purified fresh air. It can be understood that by coordinating the opening and closing of the first air valve (V1) and the second air valve (V2), it is possible to precisely control whether the return air enters the DAC module for CO2 purification according to actual operating needs, and to determine whether the purified air returns to the mixing point for recirculation. This precise airflow guidance mechanism improves the controllability and flexibility of the system.

[0072] Specifically, when the first air valve (V1) opens, some of the return air is introduced into the DAC module for efficient CO2 removal and air purification. It then returns to the mixing point via the second air valve (V2), where it mixes with fresh air and is reintroduced into the indoor space. This process effectively reduces the CO2 concentration and harmful pollutant levels in indoor air, significantly improving indoor air quality, and is particularly suitable for long-term closed-loop operation or densely populated spaces.

[0073] The presence of the air valves provides the system with excellent modular isolation capabilities. When the DAC module needs maintenance or adsorbent replacement, it can be isolated from the main airflow by closing the first air valve (V1), without affecting the basic operation of the HVAC module, thus improving the system's reliability and maintainability. Furthermore, based on the configuration of the first and second air valves, the system can flexibly switch between multiple operating modes. Specifically: when indoor air quality is good, the return air ratio is appropriately increased and the first air valve (V1) is closed to reduce the fresh air handling volume, executing an energy-saving mode; when an increase in CO2 concentration or excessive pollutants are detected, the first air valve (V1) is opened, allowing more return air to be purified by the DAC module before returning to the mixing point, prioritizing the purification mode; under extreme climatic conditions or sudden changes in air quality, the opening degrees of the first air valve (V1) and the second air valve (V2) are adjusted to quickly adjust the ratio of fresh air to return air, ensuring system response speed and adjustment accuracy.

[0074] In conjunction with the first aspect, a third air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the second node and the air inlet, and a fourth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the exhaust outlet.

[0075] When the third air valve is opened, the exhaust air is purified by the DAC module and then directly discharged through the fourth air valve.

[0076] Combination Figure 1 As shown, the second node (marked P2 in the figure) is located near the exhaust port in the return air duct. A third air valve (marked V3 in the figure) is installed on the connecting duct between the second node (P2) and the air inlet of the DAC module. A fourth air valve (marked V4 in the figure) is installed on the connecting duct between the purified air outlet and the exhaust port. When the third air valve (V3) and the fourth air valve (V4) are opened, part or all of the filtered return air is guided to the DAC module for adsorption and purification before being discharged.

[0077] In conjunction with the first aspect, a fifth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the third node and the air inlet, and a sixth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the fan;

[0078] When the fifth air valve is opened, the mixed air is purified by the DAC module and then sent to the fan inlet through the sixth air valve.

[0079] Similarly, the third node (P3 in the figure) connects the downstream of the mixing point to the DAC module. A fifth air valve (V5 in the figure) is installed on the connecting pipe. Opening this air valve will guide part or all of the mixed air to the DAC module. Opening the sixth air valve (V6 in the figure) will guide the adsorbed and purified gas to the fan, and then, after temperature and humidity regulation, it will be sent into the indoor space.

[0080] In conjunction with the first aspect, a seventh air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the fourth node and the air inlet, and an eighth air valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point.

[0081] When the seventh air valve is opened, the bypass airflow is purified by the DAC module and then sent back to the mixing point or designated area through the eighth air valve.

[0082] Combination Figure 1 As shown, the fourth node (combined with the label P4) is located on the connecting pipe between the return air inlet and the fresh air inlet of the return air main. The seventh air valve (combined with the label V7) is installed on the connecting pipe between the fourth node and the air inlet. Opening the seventh air valve (V7) can guide part or all of the fresh air and return air mixture to the DAC module.

[0083] In conjunction with the first aspect, the energy coupling component includes: a heat recovery unit, a humidity coupling unit, and an energy recovery submodule.

[0084] The heat recovery unit is connected to collect waste heat generated during the operation of the HVAC module and external supplementary heat sources, and introduces the collected heat into the DAC module for adsorbent regeneration.

[0085] Specifically, the heat recovery unit is connected at one end to the condenser and surface cooler inside the temperature and humidity control unit of the HVAC module, and at the other end to the regenerative energy input port of the DAC module. This is used to recover the waste heat generated during the operation of the HVAC module to heat the adsorbent inside the DAC module to release CO2. This end can also be connected to a solar collector / ground source heat pump to introduce renewable energy as a supplementary heat source, reducing the system's dependence on external energy when external environmental conditions are suitable.

[0086] The first end of the humidity coupling unit is connected to the air outlet, and the second end is connected to the DAC module. It is used to introduce low-temperature and low-humidity air into the DAC module after the adsorption stage to regulate the humidity of the gas in the DAC module and optimize the adsorption or desorption process.

[0087] Furthermore, its first end can also be connected to the condenser inside the temperature and humidity control unit of the HVAC module or to outdoor high-humidity air to provide moisture during the desorption stage, reduce the temperature required for desorption, and improve regeneration efficiency.

[0088] The first end of the energy recovery submodule is connected to the regeneration exhaust gas outlet of the DAC module, and the second end is connected to a heat exchanger or total heat exchanger. It is used to collect the usable energy in the high-temperature and high-humidity exhaust gas discharged during the regeneration process, and to use the recovered energy to preheat the regeneration airflow or fresh air, thereby reducing the need for additional heating.

[0089] The energy coupling component provided in this application achieves a multi-dimensional, closed-loop energy regeneration mechanism by rationally configuring the heat recovery unit, humidity coupling unit, and energy recovery subsystem, and tightly connecting them with the temperature and humidity control unit, condenser, surface cooler, external renewable energy equipment, and DAC module of the HVAC module. This integrated design not only improves the sustainability of the CO2 capture system but also provides an innovative technical path for the energy-saving and intelligent development of building ventilation systems.

[0090] In conjunction with the first aspect, the DAC module uses an amine-based solid adsorbent, has a regeneration temperature range of 80-120℃, and receives 60-80℃ hot air from the condenser through the regeneration energy input interface.

[0091] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control method for an integrated device of a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, the method being applied to the control module of the aforementioned system.

[0092] Combination Figure 2 As shown, the method includes:

[0093] S110, retrieve current running data.

[0094] S120, based on the current operating data and the current operating mode, determine the target node among the first to fourth nodes.

[0095] S130 controls the opening of the air valve corresponding to the target node to guide the airflow through the DAC module for CO2 capture.

[0096] The current operating mode is one of the following: indoor air quality priority mode, carbon capture priority mode, energy saving priority mode, or local treatment mode.

[0097] The current operating data is collected by sensors and transmitted to the control module. The sensors are located at key nodes of the HVAC module (such as fresh air inlets, return air inlets, supply air inlets, indoor areas, etc.) and the DAC system (such as inlets and outlets) to measure the CO2 concentration in the airflow.

[0098] This invention proposes a method that dynamically selects target nodes and controls the opening of corresponding air valves by real-time acquisition of CO2 concentration data from key nodes of the HVAC and DAC modules, guiding airflow through the DAC module for efficient CO2 capture. This method supports adaptive switching between three operating modes: indoor air quality priority, carbon capture priority, and energy saving priority, enhancing the system's flexibility and applicability. Through intelligent control, it not only optimizes carbon capture efficiency but also achieves synergistic optimization of energy recovery and airflow management, enhancing the overall stability, safety, and energy efficiency of the system, providing technical support for the widespread application of carbon capture technology in building ventilation systems.

[0099] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is the indoor air quality priority mode, and the current operating data includes indoor space CO2 concentration data.

[0100] Step S120 includes:

[0101] S121a, if the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space is higher than the first preset threshold, determine the first node or the third node as the target node.

[0102] At this point, the CO2 concentration in the indoor space is too high. The priority is to reduce the indoor CO2 concentration. Specifically, the first air valve (V1) corresponding to the first node (P1) is opened to guide the return air to the DAC unit for CO2 adsorption and collection. Then, the air is introduced into the mixing point through the second air valve (V2) to mix with fresh air before being introduced into the room, thereby reducing the CO2 concentration in the mixed airflow. Alternatively, the fifth air valve (V5) corresponding to the third node (P3) is opened to guide the mixed airflow to the DAC module, reducing the CO2 concentration in the mixed airflow. Then, the airflow is delivered into the indoor space by the fan through the sixth air valve (V6), further reducing the CO2 concentration in the incoming airflow.

[0103] In this embodiment, the first preset threshold is 800 ppm.

[0104] In conjunction with the second aspect, after step S110, the following also includes:

[0105] S111a, if the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space is lower than the second preset threshold, control the DAC module to pause or reduce power operation.

[0106] The second preset threshold is less than the first preset threshold.

[0107] If the indoor CO2 concentration is below the second preset threshold, it indicates that the current indoor air quality is good and the carbon capture demand is low. In this case, controlling the DAC module to operate at reduced power or suspend operation can effectively reduce unnecessary energy consumption and equipment wear, thereby improving the overall system's energy efficiency. By preventing the DAC module from continuously operating at high load under low demand conditions, this control logic helps reduce equipment wear and aging, thus extending its service life and reducing maintenance frequency and costs. In this embodiment, the second preset threshold is 600 ppm.

[0108] By setting two different preset thresholds (the first preset threshold is used to trigger the DAC module to start, and the second preset threshold is used to control its frequency reduction or shutdown), the system can achieve more refined operation management. This hierarchical control strategy not only improves the system's adaptability to environmental changes, but also optimizes the start-up and shutdown frequency and operating intensity of the equipment while ensuring indoor air quality.

[0109] Understandably, as an example, this mode is applicable to situations where there are people in the building during daytime business hours and the indoor CO2 concentration has risen to an uncomfortable level (e.g., greater than the first preset threshold: 800 ppm), requiring improvement of indoor air quality. In this case, the first air valve (V1) corresponding to the first node (P1) is fully open, directing all return air to the DAC module. After CO2 is captured by the adsorbent in the adsorbent bed, the airflow is directed to the mixing point through the second air valve (V2), where it mixes with fresh air and is then delivered into the indoor space. During this process, the fan is kept at 60–80% speed, and the CO2 concentration of the airflow entering the indoor space is monitored in real time. When it drops to the second preset threshold of 600 ppm, the opening of the first air valve V1 (0 to 100% linear) is reduced proportionally to save energy. If the CO2 concentration of the airflow entering the indoor space remains below 600 ppm, the P1 mode is completely shut off, and the normal return air ratio is restored.

[0110] Secondly, the current operating mode is the carbon capture priority mode;

[0111] Step S120 includes:

[0112] S121b, if the current time period is a period when buildings are not occupied and / or a period of low electricity prices, the second node is taken as the target node.

[0113] When operating in carbon capture priority mode, if it is during a period of low electricity prices, the third and fourth air valves corresponding to the second node are activated to directly capture carbon dioxide in the air by taking advantage of the low electricity price period, thereby minimizing the overall cost. During periods when the building is not occupied, when energy demand is low, the third and fourth air valves corresponding to the second node are activated to carry out carbon capture operations more efficiently without affecting normal building use.

[0114] As an example, this mode is suitable for situations where electricity consumption is low at night or during unoccupied periods, and the goal is building carbon reduction or "negative carbon" contribution. In this mode, exhaust air is prioritized to be sent to the DAC module to maximize CO2 capture at regular intervals. During this process, the opening of the third air valve (V3) can be adjusted according to the CO2 capture rate and adsorbent status. If insufficient external energy is detected or the daily cumulative target is reached, this mode is turned off.

[0115] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is the energy-saving priority mode; the current operating data includes outdoor environmental parameters and indoor environmental parameters.

[0116] Step S120 includes:

[0117] S121c, if the current period is a transitional season with indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity deviation less than the threshold and low heating and cooling load, the third node will be used as the target node.

[0118] When operating in energy-saving priority mode and when the outdoor and indoor environmental parameters are similar, the control module selects to activate the third node to minimize the amount of fresh air introduced while handling the mixed air.

[0119] This mode is suitable for transitional seasons such as spring and autumn, when the indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity deviation is less than the threshold and the cooling and heating load is small. It aims to minimize the energy consumption of fresh air handling while maintaining IAQ (Indoor Air Quality). By intercepting a portion of the return air and fresh air at the mixing point and introducing it into the DAC module, it ensures CO2 levels while reducing the cooling, heating, humidification, and dehumidification load of the HVAC module. As an example:

[0120] When the outdoor temperature and humidity deviation is less than the threshold indoors (e.g., in spring and autumn), the cooling and heating load is low. At this time, it is necessary to ensure IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) while minimizing energy consumption for fresh air handling. In this case, the fifth air valve (V5) corresponding to the third node (P3) is opened, typically at 30%-70%, to guide the mixed airflow of fresh and return air into the DAC module. Subsequently, it is guided through the sixth air valve (V6) to the fan, temperature and humidity control module, and air outlet to the indoor space. This mode is maintained when the fresh air ratio and mixed air CO2 concentration both meet IAQ requirements and the cooling and heating load is minimal. If the outside temperature difference is too large or the CO2 concentration suddenly increases, it reverts to the indoor air quality priority mode or a localized mode.

[0121] In conjunction with the second aspect, the current operating mode is a local processing mode; the current operating data is the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space.

[0122] Step S120 includes:

[0123] S121d: For each area of ​​the indoor space, calculate the absolute value of the difference between the current CO2 concentration and the average CO2 concentration of the area to obtain the CO2 concentration difference of the area.

[0124] S121e, if there is a difference in CO2 concentration greater than the preset threshold, the fourth node will be used as the target node.

[0125] This mode is used in renovation / experiment projects where there are localized high CO2 pollution sources (such as conference rooms, laboratories, and classrooms) or where pipeline modifications are limited, and where targeted and flexible extraction, purification, and return of air from specific areas are required. In this case, the seventh air valve (V7) corresponding to the fourth node (P4) is opened, with its opening degree between 20% and 50%. This allows fresh air, return air, or mixed airflow to flow into the DAC module and then be returned to the mixing point or directly delivered to the target area's air supply terminal through the eighth air valve (V8), thereby achieving precise control of the local CO2 concentration.

[0126] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, combined with Figure 3As shown, the electronic device includes a memory 131 and a processor 130. The memory 131 stores a computer program, and the processor 130 runs the computer program to make the electronic device perform the above-described method.

[0127] Furthermore, combined Figure 3 The electronic device shown also includes a bus 132 and a communication interface 133, with the processor 130, the communication interface 133 and the memory 131 connected via the bus 132.

[0128] The memory 131 may include high-speed random access memory (RAM) and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Communication between this system network element and at least one other network element is achieved through at least one communication interface 133 (which can be wired or wireless), such as the Internet, wide area network, local area network, metropolitan area network, etc. The bus 132 may be an ISA bus, PCI bus, or EISA bus, etc. The bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 3 The symbol is represented by a single double-headed arrow, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0129] Processor 130 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the hardware of processor 130 or by instructions in software form. Processor 130 may be a general-purpose processor, including a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Network Processor (NP), etc.; it may also be a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this invention. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this invention can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware decoding processor, or execution by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software module can reside in a mature storage medium in the art, such as random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, or registers. This storage medium is located in memory 131, and processor 130 reads the information in memory 131 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the method described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0130] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a readable storage medium storing computer program instructions, which are read and executed by a processor to perform the above-described method.

[0131] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working process of the system and apparatus described above can be referred to the corresponding process in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0132] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0133] If a function is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this invention, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0134] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0135] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are merely specific implementations of the present invention, used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit it. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that any person skilled in the art can still modify or easily conceive of changes to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features; and these modifications, changes, or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, characterized in that, include: The HVAC module includes a fresh air inlet, a filter, a mixing point, a fan, a temperature and humidity control unit, and an air supply outlet connected in sequence. The HVAC module also includes a return air duct and an exhaust outlet. The DAC module is equipped with an air inlet, a purified air outlet, a regenerative energy input interface, and a CO2 product output port; An integrated interface unit includes a first to a fourth node. The first node connects the return air main duct to the air inlet. The second node connects the exhaust outlet to the air inlet. The third node connects the downstream of the mixing point to the air inlet. The fourth node selectively connects the return air main duct or the fresh air inlet to the air inlet through a bypass duct. An energy coupling component receives waste heat and / or moisture generated by the HVAC module through the regenerative energy input interface for energy regeneration; The control module dynamically selects one or more nodes from the first to fourth nodes and adjusts the opening of the air valve based on sensor data; A first air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the first node and the air inlet, and a second air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point; when the first air valve is opened, the return air is purified by the DAC module and then returns to the mixing point through the second air valve. A third air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the second node and the air inlet, and a fourth air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the exhaust outlet; when the third air valve and the fourth air valve are opened, the exhaust air is purified by the DAC module and then directly discharged through the fourth air valve. A fifth air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the third node and the air inlet, and a sixth air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the fan; when the fifth air valve is opened, the mixed air is purified by the DAC module and then sent to the fan inlet through the sixth air valve. A seventh air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the fourth node and the air inlet, and an eighth air valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the purified air outlet and the mixing point; when the seventh air valve is opened, the bypass airflow is purified by the DAC module and then sent back to the mixing point or designated area through the eighth air valve.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy coupling component includes: The heat recovery unit is used to collect the waste heat generated during the operation of the HVAC module and the external supplementary heat source, and to introduce the collected heat into the DAC module for adsorbent regeneration. The humidity coupling unit delivers the condensate generated by the surface cooler to the regenerative energy input interface.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The DAC module uses an amine-based solid adsorbent, has a regeneration temperature range of 80-120℃, and receives 60-80℃ hot air from the condenser through a regeneration energy input interface.

4. A control method for an air handling system integrating a direct air capture module and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, characterized in that, The method is applied to the system as described in any one of claims 1-3, and the method includes: Get the current running data; Based on the current operating data and the current operating mode, the target node among the first to fourth nodes is determined; The air valve corresponding to the target node is opened to guide the airflow through the DAC module for CO2 capture; The current operating mode is one of the following: indoor air quality priority mode, carbon capture priority mode, energy saving priority mode, and local treatment mode.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The current operating mode is the indoor air quality priority mode, and the current operating data includes indoor space CO2 concentration data; The steps for determining the target node among the first to fourth nodes based on the current operating data and the current operating mode include: If the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space is higher than the first preset threshold, the first node is determined as the target node.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The current operating mode is the carbon capture priority mode; The steps for determining the target node among the first to fourth nodes based on the current operating data and the current operating mode include: If the current time period is a period when buildings are not occupied and / or a period of low electricity prices, the second node will be used as the target node.

7. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The current operating mode is the energy-saving priority mode; The steps for determining the target node among the first to fourth nodes based on the current operating data and the current operating mode include: If the current period is a transitional season where the indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity deviation is less than the threshold and the heating and cooling load is small, the third node will be used as the target node.

8. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The current operating mode is the local processing mode; the current operating data is the CO2 concentration data of the indoor space. The steps for determining the target node among the first to fourth nodes based on the current operating data and the current operating mode include: For each area of ​​the indoor space, calculate the absolute value of the difference between the current CO2 concentration and the average CO2 concentration of the area to obtain the CO2 concentration difference for that area. If the difference in CO2 concentration is greater than a preset threshold, the fourth node will be designated as the target node.

Images