Method for configuring an air handling unit

Abstract

Using a web configuration server, an air handling unit type is selected from a predetermined list of air handling unit types, air handling unit components are selected from a predetermined list of components, a control function is selected from a predetermined list of control functions, and the control functions are configured. The air handling unit (1) includes a universal electrical cabinet (10) suitable for any type of air handling unit (1) and configured to operate only with the selected components. The universal electrical cabinet houses a programmable logic controller (PLC) (6) in which the web configuration server is embedded and configured with the selected control functions. (See Figure 4 for abbreviations.)

Description

Title of the invention: Method for configuring an air handling unit FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to methods for configuring and reconfiguring air handling units, and to assemblies of air handling units. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] In the tertiary sector, it is known to equip buildings with air handling units. In particular, in healthcare environments, especially in the hospital sector, the safety of patients and medical staff are absolute priorities. Indoor air quality is one of the essential factors affecting this safety, and must therefore be carefully controlled.

[0003] As a general rule, each air handling unit is custom-designed for the building whose air is to be treated, by combining elements to implement the desired air treatment functions. When designing the air handling unit, the controller is configured to operate with its various elements.

[0004] However, this approach generates significant development needs, because each air handling unit is unique, adapted to the specificities of the building to be equipped. This approach also generates significant maintenance needs. Indeed, in the event that an element is faulty or obsolete, it is necessary to take a fresh look at the overall configuration of the installation to ensure that it is updated or replaced correctly, which can sometimes go as far as requiring the replacement of the entire electronic card.

[0005] In the related field of so-called "split" air conditioning systems (Anglicism meaning "separate"), US 10,215,436 proposes a controller comprising a microprocessor managing a portion for so-called fixed tasks and a so-called "modular" or "expandable" portion, each capable of being coupled to peripheral devices. More precisely, the so-called "expandable" portion is coupled to devices via control modules acting as slaves of the microprocessor. US 10,215,436 therefore proposes two distinct configurations, one using only the portion for so-called fixed tasks, and the other using the portion for so-called fixed tasks and the "expandable" portion.

[0006] The invention thus aims to simplify the deployment and use of air handling units, which can be very different from one another. Summary of the invention

[0007] Thus, the invention relates to a method of configuring an air treatment unit comprising: . by means of a configuration web server, a type of air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of types of air handling units, . by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements, . using the configuration web server, at least one regulation function is selected from a predetermined list of regulation functions, . using the configuration web server, the said regulation functions are configured, wherein the air handling unit comprises said elements and a universal electrical cabinet suitable for any type of air handling unit, and set up to operate only with said selected elements, the universal electrical cabinet housing a PLC in which the configuration web server is embedded, and configured with said selected regulation functions.

[0008] Thanks to these provisions, the hardware used can be standardized, and its configuration can be done universally by software.

[0009] According to different aspects, it is possible to provide one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0010] According to one embodiment, by means of the configuration web server, the type of air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of types of air handling units comprising at least two types of air handling units from: {single flow; double flow; double flow with heat exchange by battery; double flow with heat exchange by plate exchanger; double flow for operating room}.

[0011] According to one embodiment, by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements comprising at least one sensor and at least one actuator or alarm.

[0012] According to one embodiment, by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements comprising at least one of the pairs from the following list: - a temperature probe as a sensor and a thermal system as an actuator; - a pressure probe as a sensor and a fan as an actuator; - a hygrometry probe as a sensor and a humidification and / or dehumidification system as an actuator.

[0013] According to one embodiment, by means of the configuration web server, at least one alert / alarm is configured from a predetermined list of alerts / alarms depending on the type of air handling unit.

[0014] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method of reconfiguring an air handling unit in which: having an air handling unit configured according to the configuration process above, . at least one element is added to the air handling unit, . by means of the configuration web server, at least one added element of the air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of elements depending on the type of air handling unit, . using the configuration web server, at least one new control function is selected from a predetermined list of control functions depending on the type and the added element of the air handling unit, . using the configuration web server, the said new regulation function is configured, wherein the air handling unit comprises said added element, said universal electrical cabinet being set up to further operate with said added element, the controller being further configured with said new regulation function.

[0015] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for configuring air handling units comprising implementing the above method for configuring an air handling unit for a plurality of air handling units of different types, in which the universal electrical cabinets of each air handling unit are set up to operate only with said selected elements of each respective unit and each house a respective controller configured with said selected regulation functions for said respective air handling unit.

[0016] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a set of air treatment units each comprising: . at least elements selected from a predetermined list of elements depending on a type of air handling unit chosen from a predetermined list of types of air handling units, . a universal electrical cabinet suitable for any type of air handling unit, and set up to operate only with said selected elements, the universal electrical cabinet housing a PLC incorporating a configuration web server and configured with at least one regulation function selected from a predetermined list of regulation functions depending on the type and elements of the air handling unit, universal electrical cabinets for air handling units presenting the same input / output interfaces. Brief description of the drawings

[0017] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0018] [Fig.l] schematically represents an air treatment unit according to a first type.

[0019] [Fig.2] schematically represents a control loop.

[0020] [Fig.3] schematically represents a graph showing, on the abscissa, a measurement and, on the ordinate, the calculated setpoint, the curve therefore showing the calculated setpoint as a function of the measured data, according to an example of implementation.

[0021] [Fig.4] schematically represents an electrical cabinet according to a method of rea lization of the invention.

[0022] [Fig.5] schematically represents an air treatment unit according to a second type.

[0023] [Fig.6] schematically represents an air handling unit according to a third type.

[0024] [Fig.7] schematically represents an air handling unit according to a fourth type.

[0025] [Fig.8] schematically represents an air handling unit according to a fifth type.

[0026] [Fig.9] schematically represents an air handling unit according to a sixth kind.

[0027] In the drawings, like references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] [Fig. 1] schematically represents an air treatment installation 1 equipping a building. The air treatment installation 1 is commonly called an air treatment “unit” 1. “Air treatment unit” means a technical air treatment system intended to modify the characteristics (temperature, purity and / or humidity) of an air flow entering a building according to a command. An air treatment unit is essentially modular, and can comprise elements of very varied number and type depending on the specificities of the equipped building. The equipped building is for example a service building such as, in particular, a service building in which the ambient air must be of good quality, typically a service building in the health sector, such as a hospital or a clinic. In the description, the terms “exterior” and “interior” are used with reference to this building.

[0029] The air handling unit 1 comprises at least one duct 2 aerau-lically connecting at least one air inlet 3 and at least one air outlet 4. The air is designed to flow in the direction from the at least one air inlet 3 towards the at least one air outlet 4, this flow being able to be natural or assisted. In the description, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to this direction of flow. The at least one air inlet 3 of the air handling unit 1 can be aerau-lically connected to one or more upstream air inlet vents, in particular adapted for an inlet of outside air, also called "fresh" air. The at least one air outlet 4 of the air handling unit 1 can be aeraulically connected to one or more downstream air outlets, in particular arranged in a place of human occupation of the building, such as a room or a passageway (corridor, stairwell or elevator, etc.).

[0030] The air handling unit 1 also comprises several elements. Among these elements, the air handling unit comprises at least one actuator 5 having an effect on the air flow. Different types of actuators 5 will be described subsequently. The reference numeral “5” is used here to generically designate an actuator, and the reference “5” followed by one or more other signs is used to designate a particular actuator. The actuator 5 can receive a command from among a plurality of commands. For example, the actuator 5 can be controlled in an all-or-nothing manner. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator 5 can be controlled to operate according to one of a plurality of discrete operating modes. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator 5 can be controlled to operate according to an operating mode varying discontinuously or continuously with respect to a control parameter.

[0031] The air handling unit 1 also comprises an automaton 6 adapted to control the actuator 5. As will be presented in more detail later, in the case of a plurality of actuators 5, the automaton 6 is common to all of the actuators 5.

[0032] Depending on the embodiments, the air handling unit 1 may also comprise one or more sensors 7. The numerical reference “7” is used here to generically designate a sensor, and the reference “7” followed by one or more other signs is used to designate a particular sensor. A sensor 7 may be associated with an actuator 5.

[0033] The sensors 7 are wired to the automaton 6, so that the measurements made by the sensors 7 reach the automaton 6. The actuators 5 are wired to the automaton 6, so that the commands determined by the automaton 6 reach the actuators 5. Alternatively, all or part of this wiring can be replaced by wave communication systems.

[0034] The air handling unit 1 comprises a suitable communication system to enable the communication of information with a monitoring system, a building management system and / or a centralized technical management system. Communication can be implemented wired and / or wirelessly. For modularity purposes, an open communication protocol, such as BACnet, as defined on the priority date, can be chosen. Thus, the air handling unit 1 is compatible with any commercial equipment using this communication protocol.

[0035] Considering a functional system comprising a sensor 7, the automaton 6 and an actuator 5, the automaton 6 is adapted to operate with the actuator 5 and the sensor 7. More precisely, the automaton 6 is adapted to control the actuator 5 according to data provided by the sensor 7 and a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule is possibly configurable.

[0036] According to one embodiment, for this functional system, the automaton 6 is adapted to control the actuator 5 according to a predetermined rule chosen from a plurality of predetermined rules, and stored in a memory 15 accessible to the automaton.

[0037] The available predetermined rules are for example a Boolean control according to a predetermined threshold, a proportional control, a proportional-integral control, a derivative-proportional-integral control or other.

[0038] According to a first example of a functional system, the air handling unit 1 comprises, as an actuator 5, a fan 5a adapted to generate an air flow from the at least one air inlet 3 to the at least one air outlet 4. The fan 5a is for example arranged between the at least one air inlet 3 and the at least one air outlet 4. The fan 5a is configurable. For example, a control parameter of the fan 5a is the rotation speed of the electric motor thereof. The control parameter in question can take a continuous value between a minimum (typically 0) and a maximum. The controller 6 is adapted to determine the control parameter in question, and to control the fan 5a as a function of this control parameter.For example, the control parameter is an electrical voltage between a minimum and a maximum, and the controller 6 is adapted to transmit the electrical voltage in question to a speed controller of the fan 5a. This functional system comprises, as sensor 7, a pressure probe 7a. The pressure probe 7a is arranged downstream, close to the at least one air outlet 4. The controller 6 implements a regulation of the fan 5a as a function of the pressure measurements communicated by the pressure probe 7a. The controller 6 implements for example a regulation loop parameterized by a pressure setpoint value. The pressure setpoint value is for example predetermined. According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 6 implements a proportional-integral regulation, . as shown in [Fig.2].

[0039] Depending on the variants, it is possible to implement a pressure regulation based on the difference between the pressure measured by the pressure probe 7a and the atmospheric pressure, or a flow regulation based on the difference between the pressures measured between the downstream and upstream sides of the ventilation motor.

[0040] According to a second example of a functional system, the air handling unit 1 comprises, as an actuator 5, a thermal system 5b adapted to modify the temperature of the air flow between the at least one air inlet 3 and the at least one air outlet 4. The thermal system 5b is for example arranged between the at least one air inlet 3 and the at least one air outlet 4. In the case where the air handling unit 1 also comprises a fan 5a, the thermal system 5b is for example arranged upstream of the fan 5a. The thermal system 5b is configurable. According to the embodiments, the thermal system 5b may comprise a heating thermal system 5b1 and / or a cooling thermal system 5b2. In the following example, reference is made to the heating thermal system 5b 1, also called "hot valve", the description being transposable to the cooling thermal system 5b2, also called "cold valve".For example, a control parameter of the thermal system 5b is the power thereof. The control parameter in question can take a continuous value between a minimum (typically 0) and a maximum. This functional system comprises, as sensor 7, a temperature probe 7b. The temperature probe 7b is arranged downstream, close to the at least one air outlet 4 (see for example [Fig.5]). The controller 6 implements a regulation of the thermal system 5b as a function of the temperature measurements communicated by the temperature probe 7b. The controller 6 implements for example a regulation loop parameterized by a temperature setpoint value. The temperature setpoint value is for example predetermined. According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 6 implements a proportional-integral regulation.

[0041] Alternatively, the temperature probe 7b measures the ambient temperature. The ambient temperature is a temperature inside the building, for example in a reference room.

[0042] When the functional system comprises both a thermal heating system 5b 1 and a thermal cooling system 5b2, the setpoint temperature values ​​are preferably spaced apart by a difference greater than a predetermined threshold, for example 1°C. The air handling unit possibly comprises a valve, called a “6-way valve” making it possible to connect both the thermal heating system 5b 1 and the thermal cooling system 5b2.

[0043] Alternatively, other control parameters of the thermal system may be used. 5b, such as the outside temperature. Such a functional system then uses an outside temperature sensor 7be arranged outside the building. Thus, according to one embodiment, the controller 6 is adapted to regularly determine the value of the setpoint temperature from the outside temperature data. [Fig. 3] schematically represents such a function. As shown in [Fig. 3], below a minimum outside temperature XI, the setpoint temperature is constant. Above a maximum outside temperature X4, the setpoint temperature is constant. Between the setpoint temperatures X2 and X3 (between XI and X4), the setpoint temperature varies linearly as a function of the outside temperature, with a positive steering coefficient. For example, it is equal to the outside temperature. In this case, the regulation is deactivated.The operation between XI and X2 is a linear variation between operation at XI and operation at X2. The operation between X3 and X4 is a linear variation between operation at X3 and operation at X4. The values ​​X2, X3, and even XI and X4 are configurable. The difference between two of its consecutive values ​​can be constrained to be greater than a predetermined threshold. Other implementations are possible.

[0044] Alternatively or in addition, other control parameters of the thermal system 5b may be used, such as for example a temperature value requested downstream. The controller 6 then communicates with an element (not shown) downstream of the air handling unit 1, which communicates to it a desired temperature value downstream. Thus, according to one embodiment, the controller 6 is adapted to regularly determine the value of the setpoint temperature also from the desired temperature value data downstream.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, the automaton 6 can also take into account input data from a temperature potentiometer used to shift the temperature demand relative to the programmed regulation.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the thermal system 5b may be more or less complex. It may, for example, comprise a pre-treatment thermal system adapted to cool or heat the air upstream of the devices described above. Such a pre-treatment thermal system may also comprise a pre-treatment thermal system for heating or cooling controlled from a pre-heating temperature probe arranged at any suitable location.

[0047] As a variant of this embodiment, the automaton 6 communicates with several terminal elements (not shown) downstream of the air treatment unit 1, for example in separate locations, which each communicate to it a desired temperature value downstream, possibly different from each other. Thus, according to one embodiment, the automaton 6 is adapted to regularly determine the value of the tem set temperature also from these desired temperature value data downstream at the terminals.

[0048] According to a third example of a functional system, the air handling unit 1 comprises, as an actuator 5, a humidity regulating system 5c adapted to modify the hygrometry of the air flow between the at least one air inlet 3 and the at least one air outlet 4 (see [Fig. 5]). The hygrometry regulating system 5c is for example arranged between the at least one air inlet 3 and the at least one air outlet 4. In the case where the air handling unit 1 also comprises a thermal system 5b, the hygrometry regulating system 5c is for example arranged downstream of the thermal system 5b. The hygrometry regulating system 5c is configurable. Depending on the embodiments, the humidity regulating system 5c may comprise a dehumidification system 5c1 and / or a humidification system 5c2. In the following example, reference is made to the humidification system 5c2.For example, a control parameter of the humidification system 5c2 is the power thereof. The control parameter in question may, for example, be a control voltage which may take a continuous value between a minimum (typically 0) and a maximum (typically 10 Volts). This functional system comprises, as sensor 7, a hygrometry probe 7c. The hygrometry probe 7c is arranged downstream, close to the at least one air outlet 4. The controller 6 implements a regulation of the system regulating the hygrometry 5c as a function of the hygrometry measurements communicated by the hygrometry probe 7c. The controller 6, for example, implements a regulation loop parameterized by a hygrometry setpoint value. The hygrometry setpoint value is, for example, predetermined. According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 6 implements a proportional-integral regulation.

[0049] The description given above for temperature regulation can be transposed to hygrometry, for example concerning the taking into account of ambient, external hygrometry, or a request for hygrometry value coming from downstream element(s).

[0050] The dehumidification system 5c 1 can cooperate with the thermal system 5b. In particular, for dehumidifying, the thermal cooling system 5b2 can be used. Indeed, by cooling the air, the water vapor condenses, and is evacuated at the level of the thermal cooling system 5b2. The cold dry air thus obtained can be heated by the thermal heating system 5b 1 downstream of the thermal cooling system 5b2.

[0051] According to a fourth example, the air handling unit 1 may comprise a damper 16 which can be opened or closed to selectively allow or prohibit the flow of air in the air handling unit 1. The air handling unit 1 comprises an actuator 5 for placing the damper 16 in the open or closed position, or even in an intermediate position between the open and closed positions, in which the passage surface for the air flow is intermediate between the open and closed positions. A register 16 may comprise an end-of-travel sensor adapted to detect its opening and / or its closing, and to communicate this to the automaton 6.

[0052] Whatever the actuator 5 considered, a command can also be a fault command, in the case where the automaton 6 determines the existence of a fault, and then sends a command to the actuator 5 controlling it in fault mode, that is to say, depending on the case, commanding the actuator 5 not to operate, or to operate in fault mode.

[0053] The automaton 6 can also determine the existence of an alert, and send an alert signal command, for example via a warning device. The warning device can be audible, luminous and / or communicate a notification. For example, a light, called a “synthetic light”, is implemented, which is activated regardless of the alert, or regardless of an alert among a predetermined group of alerts, for example in the event of unwanted closing of at least one register. The alert can be combined or not with a fault.

[0054] For example, the air handling unit 1 comprises an antifreeze sensor 7d transmitting a signal to the controller 6. This is, for example, a differential pressure switch at the plate exchanger. The controller 6 processes the signal according to a predetermined rule. In the event that the predetermined rule determines a fault, the controller 6 can command one and / or the other of the following actions: maximum activation of the thermal heating system 5b 1, closing of the air dampers, stopping of the fans and invalidation of the control loops. These actions are for example determined for a predetermined time, or until the controller 6 processing the signal from the antifreeze sensor 7d determines that there is no fault.

[0055] According to another example, the air handling unit 1 comprises a filtration system 17 adapted to filter the air flowing into the air handling unit, and in particular towards the outlet 4. The filtration system is adapted to retain particles present in the incoming air 3 in order to prevent them from reaching the outlet 4. A sensor 7 is used to measure the saturation level of the filtration system 17. The sensor 7 comprises, for example, a pressure switch 7e measuring the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream of the filtration system 17. The automaton 6 processes the signal received from the pressure switch 7e, according to a predetermined rule, for example by comparison with a predetermined threshold, and, if necessary, issues an alert for the replacement of the filtration system 17. The air handling unit 1 may comprise one or more filtration systems 17, each comprising one or more filters or pre-filters.

[0056] The air handling unit 1 can thus comprise other sensors 7 capable of generating faults or alerts, such as a hygrostat, a smoke sensor, a fire sensor, a power supply voltage sensor for the electrical cabinet, sensors for the correct operation of the elements of the air handling unit, or alerts based on detection from one or more sensors (rapid increase or exceeding of a temperature or flow rate threshold, for example).

[0057] In addition, the air handling unit 1 may comprise a screen, also called a “display” displaying, for example in real time, one or more measured parameters, such as, for example, a measured pressure.

[0058] There are other types of sensors, other measured quantities, other actuators, other warning devices and other rules for controlling air handling units than those which have just been described.

[0059] According to an alternative embodiment, as shown in [Fig.l], the air handling unit 1 may comprise a mixing system 8 adapted to mix air coming from outside and air coming from inside. In this case, sensors 7 can provide the controller 6 with data relating to the outside air, to the air coming from inside, and / or to the level of the mixture.

[0060] [Fig. 4] schematically represents an electrical cabinet 10 for the air handling unit 1 of [Fig. 1]. The electrical cabinet 10 is connected to the power supply by a power supply channel 11. The electrical cabinet 10 also comprises an input / output interface comprising, for example, a terminal block 12 adapted for electrical connection to the elements of the air handling unit 1. The terminal block 12 comprises a plurality of input channels 12e and a plurality of output channels 12s. The input channels 12e are each connected to a sensor 7 of the respective air handling unit 1, so that the information transmitted by the sensor 7 reaches the electrical cabinet 10. The output channels 12s are each connected to an actuator 5 or a warning device of the respective air handling unit 1, so that a command issued by the electrical cabinet 10 reaches the actuator 5 or the warning device.

[0061] Thus, in the example of the air handling unit 1 of [Fig.l], the inlet channel 12ea is connected to the pressure sensor 7a, the inlet channel 12eb is connected to the temperature sensor 7b, the inlet channel 12ebe is connected to the outside temperature sensor, the inlet channel 12ec is connected to the humidity sensor 7c, and the other inlet channels are not connected. The outlet channel 12sa is connected to the fan 5a, the outlet channel 12sbl is connected to the heating thermal system 5bl, the outlet channel 12sb2 is connected to the cooling thermal system 5b2, the outlet channel 12scl is connected to the dehumidification system 5cl, the 12sc2 outlet is connected to the 5c2 humidification system, and the other outlets are not connected.

[0062] The connections can be made in any suitable manner. Alternatively or additionally, some paths could be connected wirelessly while maintaining the same basic architecture.

[0063] The electrical cabinet 10 houses the automaton 6 adapted to determine the command to the actuators 5 and / or warning devices from the data coming from the sensors 7 and from predetermined rules, as presented above. The input and output channels of the automaton are predetermined but can, depending on the type of control unit, be occupied or free.

[0064] The PLC 6 incorporates an on-board configuration web server used to configure the PLC 6. The web server is accessible via a network from browser software, and allows the authorized user to configure the air handling unit 1.

[0065] The air handling unit 1 according to the embodiment of [Fig.l] can be controlled in several alternative ways, without any maintenance intervention on the air handling unit 1. It is sufficient to modify the configuration of the automaton 6 to apply the desired rule.

[0066] Thus, for example, it is possible to have several identical air treatment units 1, i.e. comprising the same elements, assigned to several buildings, but operating differently from each other by the simple configuration of the automaton 6.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the same air handling unit 1 can easily be operated in several alternative ways, by simply modifying the configuration of the automaton 6. This modification can be made by an operator as needed. Depending on the embodiments, an air handling unit can be configured to operate in different ways according to a predefined schedule. For example, during a first time slot, the automaton 6 implements a first set of rules and, during a second time slot, the automaton 6 implements a second set of rules. The time slots are for example linked to the circadian rhythm (alternating day / night), weekly (alternating weekdays, weekend days), seasonal (alternating cold and hot, dry and humid seasons) and / or other.

[0068] Figures 5 and following schematically represent other air handling units. These air handling units may comprise all or part of the elements and functions described above, which are not shown again in order to simplify the representation.

[0069] [Fig.5] schematically represents an air handling unit 1' according to a other type. The air handling unit 1' shown in [Fig.5] is a double-flow air handling unit.

[0070] The treatment of the incoming air by the air handling unit 1' may be similar to the description above, which will not be repeated here. This air is referred to as "incoming". This path may also be referred to as "blower".

[0071] The air handling unit 1' comprises at least one duct 2' aerau-lically connecting at least one air inlet 3' and at least one air outlet 4'. The air is intended to flow in the direction from the at least one air inlet 3' towards the at least one air outlet 4', this flow being able to be natural or assisted. In the description, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to this direction of flow. The at least one air inlet 3' of the air handling unit 1' can be aerau-lically connected to one or more upstream air inlet vents, in particular adapted for an indoor air inlet, in particular arranged in a place of human occupation of the building, such as a room or a passageway (corridor, stairwell or elevator, etc.). The at least one air outlet 4' of the air handling unit 1 can be aeraulically connected to one or more downstream air outlets, in particular to the outside.This path can be called “outgoing” or “resuming”.

[0072] The outgoing portion of the air handling unit 1' also comprises at least one actuator 5 having an effect on the flow of air, as described previously for the incoming portion, or a warning device.

[0073] According to the embodiments, the outgoing portion of the air handling unit 1 may also comprise one or more sensors 7, as described previously for the incoming portion.

[0074] For example, the outgoing portion of the air handling unit 1' comprises, as actuator 5, a fan 5a' adapted to generate an air flow from the at least one air inlet 3' to the at least one air outlet 4'. The fan 5a' is for example arranged between the at least one air inlet 3' and the at least one air outlet 4'. The fan 5a' is configurable. For example, a control parameter of the fan 5a' is the rotation speed of the electric motor thereof. The control parameter in question can take a continuous value between a minimum (typically 0) and a maximum. This functional system comprises, as sensor 7, a pressure probe 7a'. The pressure probe 7a' is arranged downstream, close to the at least one air outlet 4'. The automaton 6 implements a regulation of the fan 5a' according to the pressure measurements communicated by the pressure probe 7a'.The controller 6, for example, implements a control loop parameterized by a pressure setpoint value. The pressure setpoint value is, for example, predetermined. According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 6 implements proportional-integral control, as shown in [Fig. 2]. [Fig. 2] represents sche . automatically the measurement from the sensor 7, the setpoint stored in the memory 15, and both given to the automaton 6 which determines a control value from a predetermined rule, also stored in memory 15, and represented by a curve 18 linking the control value to the measurement as a function of the setpoint. The control value is sent to the actuator 5.

[0075] Thus, in the example of the air handling unit 1 of [Fig.5], in addition to the connections described above, the inlet channel 12ea' is connected to the pressure probe 7a' and the outlet channel 12sa' is connected to the fan 5a', and the other inlet and outlet channels are not connected.

[0076] In the preceding description, the incoming and outgoing channels are autonomous but controlled by the same electrical cabinet.

[0077] For this type of control unit, it is possible, alternatively, to control the incoming and outgoing channels interdependently.

[0078] For example, the automaton 6 is configured to control at least one actuator 5 or one warning device of the incoming channel also as a function of at least one data item coming from a sensor 7 of the outgoing channel. Alternatively or in addition, the automaton 6 is configured to control at least one actuator 5 or one warning device of the outgoing channel also as a function of one data item coming from at least one sensor 7 of the incoming channel.

[0079] It follows from the above that the air handling unit 1 according to the embodiment of [Fig.5] can be controlled according to several alternative configurations, without any maintenance intervention on the air handling unit.

[0080] Thus, for example, it is possible to have several identical air treatment units 1', as shown in [Fig.5], assigned to several buildings, but operating differently from each other by the simple configuration of the automaton 6.

[0081] As a variant or in addition, the same air treatment unit 1' as shown in [Fig.5], can easily be implemented according to several alternative configurations, by simply modifying the configuration of the automaton 6.

[0082] Furthermore, the air handling unit 1 as shown in [Fig. 1] and the air handling unit 1' as shown in [Fig. 5] can be operated using the same electrical cabinet 10. The electrical cabinet 10 is connected to the air handling units 1, 1' according to the sensors, actuators and warning devices specific to each. Each controller 6 is configured to allow the use of the implementable regulation rules specific to each air handling unit 1, 1'. Thus, for the air handling unit 1 of [Fig. 1], the regulation rules of an available actuator are rules which do not take into account data measured by outgoing airway sensors, since such data are not not accessible for such an air handling unit.

[0083] [Fig.6] schematically represents a 1” air handling unit according to another type.

[0084] The air handling unit 1” in question is also a double flow unit. Compared to the air handling unit 1' of [Fig.5], it uses a heat exchanger 13 between the incoming and outgoing flows. Such a heat exchange makes it possible in particular to heat the incoming air coming from outside with the outgoing air coming from inside, when the inside air is warmer than the inside air, which reduces the energy that the thermal heating system 5b 1 must consume.

[0085] The controller 6 is configured to implement thermal regulation functions for the incoming air specific to this type of air handling unit 1”. For example, the control of the thermal heating system 5b 1 of the incoming channel can take into account as input data data from a sensor 7 of the outgoing channel, for example data on the temperature of the outgoing flow and / or data on the flow rate of the outgoing flow.

[0086] Furthermore, the air handling unit 1” of [Fig.6] comprises an actuator 5d at the heat exchanger, which is connected to a dedicated output channel 12sd of the electrical cabinet 10. The controller 6 applies a predetermined rule to determine a command of the actuator 5d of the heat exchanger as a function of the incoming data, such as, for example, the temperatures measured in the incoming and outgoing channels, or even the outside temperature and / or the flow rates of the incoming and / or outgoing channels. The command is for example a command to actuation a pump for circulating a heat transfer fluid in the heat exchanger, also called a “recovery pump”, parameterized by a pumping power. Such a heat exchanger is also called a “recovery battery”.

[0087] Different heat exchange technologies are possible, such as for example a plate exchanger as shown in [Fig.7]. The regulation rules that can be implemented by the automaton 6 depend on the type of plant.

[0088] [Fig.8] schematically represents an air treatment unit 1'” according to another type, called “operating block”.

[0089] The air handling unit 1”' in question is also a double flow unit. Compared to the air handling unit 1' of [Fig.5], it implements a recovery of at least part of the outgoing flow into the incoming flow. Such a recovery makes it possible to limit the flow rate of incoming air from the outside, and can also have a thermal input, as presented above, which reduces the energy that the thermal heating system 5b 1 must consume.

[0090] The controller 6 is configured to implement thermal regulation functions for the incoming air specific to this type of air handling unit 1”. For example, the control of the thermal heating system 5b 1 of the incoming path can take into account as input data data from a sensor 7 of the outgoing path, for example data on the temperature of the outgoing flow and / or data on the flow rate of the outgoing flow.

[0091] Furthermore, the air handling unit 1”' of [Fig.8] comprises an actuator 5 such as a return valve 5e, which is connected to a dedicated output channel 12se of the electrical cabinet 10. The controller 6 applies a predetermined rule to determine a command of the return valve 5e as a function of the incoming data, such as, for example, the temperatures measured in the incoming and outgoing channels, or even the outside temperature and / or the flow rates of the incoming and / or outgoing channels. The command is for example a command to open the return valve 5e, parameterized by an opening size of the return valve 5e. Alternatively, a flow rate could be commanded through the return valve 5e.

[0092] As can be seen in [Fig.8], in this type of unit, the return duct 14 extends from the outgoing path, upstream of the fan 5a' thereof, to the incoming path, downstream of the filtration system and upstream of the fan 5a. However, other embodiments are possible, such as for the air handling unit 1”” shown in [Fig.9], where the return duct 14 opens upstream of the air handling devices of the incoming path. The regulation rules that can be implemented by the controller 6 depend on the type of unit.

[0093] Regardless of the type of air handling unit considered, the controller 6 can be configured to implement an operating mode of the air handling unit chosen from several operating modes. For example, one operating mode is the “Off” mode, in which no functional system is regulated. One operating mode is an “occupancy” mode, also called “comfort” mode, which corresponds to the nominal operating mode of the air handling unit, in which each of the functional systems is regulated. One operating mode is the “unoccupied” mode, in which, for the air handling unit, a set of setpoint values ​​is modified compared to the “occupied” mode, in particular with a view to reducing energy consumption. One operating mode is a “disinfection” mode, in which the air handling unit is regulated so as to disinfect a room such as an operating theater.This disinfection uses a room disinfection machine, and the air handling unit is then configured to treat the air in a manner compatible with the disinfection process.

[0094] Thus, the electrical cabinet 10 is capable of receiving one and / or the other as input measured quantities from the following sensors: Temperature probes: - Downstream heat exchanger, - Preheating, - Ambient, - Resumption, - Blowing, - Fresh air; Pressure probes: - Ambient, - Resumption, - Blowing ; Hygrometry probes: - Ambient, - Resumption, - Blowing.

[0095] More precisely, the electrical cabinet 10 is capable of receiving as input one of and / or the other of the quantities measured from the following sensors: - Downstream temperature probe of heat exchanger, - Preheating temperature probe, - Ambient temperature probe, - Return temperature probe, - Blowing temperature probe, - Fresh air temperature sensor, - Ambient pressure probe, - Pressure sensor taken back, - Blowing pressure probe, - Heat exchanger water shortage pressure switch, - Plate exchanger antifreeze pressure switch, - Temperature potentiometer, - Ambient humidity probe, - Hygrometry probe taken up, - Blowing humidity probe, - Return filter pressure switch, - Operating room return filter pressure switch, - Blowing filter pressure switch, - Pre-filter blowing pressure switch, - Operating room blowing filter pressure switch, - New air filter pressure switch.

[0096] Where appropriate, the electrical cabinet 10 does not include enough channels to connect all of the sensors, actuators and warning devices, and the operator defines via a human-machine interface, allowing access to the configuration web server, the quantity associated with certain of the channels.

[0097] The automaton 6 provides access to the following functionalities: - Choice of options (for air handling units including less frequent elements allowing the implementation of certain specific functionalities), for example: - Humidifier - for air handling units 1 comprising an air humidifier operable by an occupant, for example from an operating theatre, - Preheating - for air handling units 1 including a preheating system, - Pressure display - for air handling units 1 comprising a room equipped with a display of the pressure prevailing in another zone, in particular in an operating theatre, - Occupancy damper - for air handling units 1 including a damper controllable according to a building occupancy parameter. - Choice of operating mode: - Stop, - Reduced - operation in a reduced power consumption mode - in this, for example, the registers are only partially open, - Comfort, - Restart - transition operation between the “reduced” operating mode and the “comfort” mode, capable of being activated by an occupant, for example by pressing a restart push button, - Disinfection.

[0098] The automaton 6 is capable of implementing at least one or other of the following functionalities: - Temperature regulation: - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation according to terminal requests with priority, - Hot valve and cold valve return temperature regulation with potentiometer, - Hot valve and cold valve return temperature regulation with fixed setpoint, - Hot valve return temperature regulation with fixed setpoint, - Cold valve return temperature regulation with fixed setpoint, - Ambient temperature regulation hot valve and cold valve with fixed setpoint, - Ambient temperature regulation hot valve with fixed setpoint, - Ambient temperature regulation cold valve with fixed setpoint, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation according to temperature taken back with potentiometer, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation with potentiometer, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation according to ambient temperature, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation according to return temperature, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation according to outside temperature, - Hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature regulation with fixed setpoint, - Hot valve blowing temperature regulation with fixed setpoint, - Cold valve blowing temperature regulation with fixed setpoint; Pressure regulation: - Resumption, - Blowing ; Flow regulation: - Resumption, - Blowing ; Recovery regulation: - Regulation of pump exchanger recovery according to temperature difference temperature, - Plate exchanger recovery regulation according to temperature difference with regulating control and plate exchanger antifreeze pressure switch safety, - Regulation of pump exchanger recovery according to temperature threshold; Absolute humidity regulation: - Dehumidification and humidification regulation with setpoint fixed, - Humidification regulation return with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification return regulation with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification and ambient humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Ambient humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification and ambient humidity regulation - Dehumidification and humidification hygrometry regulation blowing according to humidity return, - Dehumidification regulation of blown humidity according to return humidity, - Dehumidification and humidification blowing regulation with fixed setpoint, - Blowing humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Blower dehumidification regulation with fixed setpoint; - Relative humidity regulation: - Dehumidification and humidification return regulation with fixed setpoint, - Humidification regulation return with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification return regulation with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification and ambient humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Ambient humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Dehumidification and ambient humidity regulation - Dehumidification and humidification hygrometry regulation blowing according to humidity return, - Dehumidification regulation of blown humidity according to return humidity, - Dehumidification and humidification blowing regulation with fixed setpoint, - Blowing humidification regulation with fixed setpoint, - Blower dehumidification regulation with fixed setpoint.

[0099] The automaton 6 also allows warning of the following faults: - Antifreeze thermostat, - Smoke detector, - Presence of tension, - Fire detection, - Stop ventilation, - Filters: - Resumption, - Return to operating room, - Fresh air, - Fresh air pre-filter, - Blowing pre-filter, - Operating room blowing, - Blowing.

[0100] Thus, the electrical cabinet 10 is capable of delivering a control signal as output to one and / or the other of the following actuators: - Registers: - Rejection, - Resumption, - Blowing, - Fresh air, - Bypass (register allowing you to bypass an element of the air handling unit), - Disinfection, - Occupation; - Actuators: - Cold valve, - Hot valve, - Vanneô ways, - Preheating valve, - Blower fan, - Return fan, - Humidifier, - Recovery pump, - Occupancy register.

[0101] More precisely, the electrical cabinet 10 is capable of delivering as output a control signal to one and / or the other of the following actuators or warning devices: - Humidifier (Y / N?), - Hot valve, - Cold valve, - Preheating valve, - 6-way valve, - Registers (Y / N?), - Fault summary indicator, - Pressure display, - Bypass register, - Occupancy register, - Recovery pump (Y / N?), - Occupation register (Y / N?), - Humidifier, - Recovery variator, - Blower variator, - Restart push button, - Recovery pump fault, - Hygrostat fault, - Humidifier fault, - Recovery variator fault, - Blower variator fault, - End of register run synthesis, - Antifreeze thermostat fault, - Smoke detector fault, - Voltage presence fault, - Fire detection fault, - Ventilation stop fault.

[0102] Air handling unit configuration

[0103] The system just described can be configured in the following manner. The configuration is carried out by the onboard configuration web server. This is accessible by an operator via navigation software, if necessary after authentication.

[0104] Firstly, it is a question of configuring an air handling unit. To begin, we describe the case of a new air handling unit intended to equip a building.

[0105] The operator first chooses the type of air handling unit intended to equip his building, from among the types of air handling units available in the configuration web server. This type is for example a single-flow, double-flow, battery or plate heat exchanger, double-flow operating room air handling unit as described above, or other available types.

[0106] The choice of the type of control unit will restrict the list of elements, sensors, actuators, warning devices, regulation rules and alerts / faults available during configuration.

[0107] In a second step, the operator defines the elements of his processing center air, from the short list of elements compatible with the selected type of central unit.

[0108] The elements include, for example, actuators, sensors and alarms.

[0109] The operator associates, where appropriate, the channels of the electrical cabinet 10 with the actuators and sensors connected to these channels. In certain cases, this association is automatic, certain channels being dedicated to a single type of sensors or actuators. In certain cases, this association is made via a multiple-choice list associated with each channel, thus listing only the sensors and actuators likely to be associated with the channel in question. This makes it possible not to oversize the electrical cabinet 10.

[0110] The operator defines the types of pressure or flow regulation of his air treatment unit, from a list of predefined types, such as for example a pressure regulation between 0 and 1000 Pa, a pressure regulation between 0 and 1600 Pa, or a pressure regulation between 0 and 2500 Pa, or flow regulation between 0 and 1000 Pa, a flow regulation between 0 and 1600 Pa, or a flow regulation between 0 and 2500 Pa.

[0111] This choice is made for example for the blowing path and the recovery path.

[0112] Then, the operator chooses his temperature regulation rule from among the available rules. For example, from among the 16 available rules, he chooses the regulation of the hot valve and cold valve blowing temperature with potentiometer.

[0113] Then, the operator chooses his hygrometry regulation rule from the rules available in absolute or relative hygrometry.

[0114] Then, the operator chooses his recovery rule from among the available rules.

[0115] Then the operator configures his alerts, and sets his sensors or actuators.

[0116] Commissioning of the air handling unit

[0117] The air handling unit 1 is integrated into the building, and the sensors and actuators are connected to the appropriate channels of the electrical cabinet 10. It can be seen that it is possible to configure numerous air handling units of different types, with different configurations, using identical electrical cabinets 10, configured and wired in a manner specific to each. However, the electrical cabinet 10 configured for a unit will operate only with the elements of the unit.

[0118] Operation of the air handling unit

[0119] The system which has just been described can be operated by means of an operating web server, for example also embedded.

[0120] The operating web server allows, for example, the operator to access, via a web interface, the regulation rule of a functional system, and to modify it and / or its parameters.

[0121] The operations web server also provides access to a calendar for defining the operational schedules of the air handling unit, such as, for example, the rules in effect at night, in the morning and during the day, during the week and at the weekend.

[0122] The operating web server also allows you to consult the alarms or faults issued.

[0123] The operating web server is configured in particular to control the transition from one operating mode to another. It also makes it possible to define launch algorithms. For example, according to a predetermined rule, the PLC 6 cannot start the fans if the registers are detected as closed.

[0124] Air handling unit update

[0125] The air handling unit can be updated very easily.

[0126] This is the case in particular if one wants to modify a regulation rule of the air handling unit.

[0127] If the present hardware is already present in the air handling unit, for example we now wish to regulate the blowing temperature also according to the outside temperature, and the air handling unit already includes an outside temperature sensor, it is sufficient to choose the new rule with the configuration web server.

[0128] Where appropriate, if the air handling unit does not include the equipment in question, it is sufficient to install it and wire it to the corresponding channel of the electrical cabinet 10 before choosing the new rule with the configuration web server.

[0129] Thus, the air handling unit can evolve with minimal maintenance. List of reference signs

[0130] 1, 1 ', 1 ”, 1 ” ': air handling unit

[0131] 2, 2': conduit

[0132] 3, 3': air inlet

[0133] 4, 4': air outlet

[0134] 5: actuator

[0135] 5a, 5a': fan

[0136] 5b: thermal system

[0137] 5b 1: thermal heating system

[0138] 5b2: thermal cooling system

[0139] 5c: humidity regulating system

[0140] 5cl: dehumidification system

[0141] 5c2: humidification system

[0142]

[0143]

[0144]

[0145]

[0146]

[0147]

[0148]

[0149]

[0150]

[0151]

[0152]

[0153]

[0154]

[0155]

[0156]

[0157]

[0158]

[0159] 5d: heat exchanger actuator 5e: return valve 6: PLC 7: sensor 7a, 7a': pressure sensor 7b: temperature sensor 7be: outside temperature sensor 7c: humidity sensor 7d: antifreeze sensor 8: mixing system 10: electrical cabinet 11: power supply channel 12: terminal block 13: heat exchanger 14: return duct 15: memory 16: register 17: filtration system

Claims

Claims

1. Method for configuring an air handling unit comprising: . by means of a configuration web server, a type of air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of types of air handling units, . by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements, . by means of the configuration web server, at least one regulation function is selected from a predetermined list of regulation functions, .by means of the configuration web server, said regulation functions are configured, in which the air handling unit (1) comprises said elements and a universal electrical cabinet (10) suitable for any type of air handling unit (1), and set up to operate only with said selected elements, the universal electrical cabinet housing a PLC (6) in which the configuration web server is embedded, and configured with said selected regulation functions.

2. Method for configuring an air handling unit according to claim 1 wherein, by means of the configuration web server, the type of air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of types of air handling units comprising at least two types of air handling units from: {single flow; double flow; double flow with heat exchange by battery, double flow with heat exchange by plate exchanger, double flow for operating theatre}.

3. Method for configuring an air handling unit according to claim 1 or 2 in which, by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements comprising at least one sensor (7) and at least one actuator or alarm (5).

4. Method for configuring an air handling unit according to claim 3 in which, by means of the configuration web server, at least elements of the air handling unit are selected from a predetermined list of elements comprising at least one of the pairs from the following list: - a temperature probe as a sensor and a thermal system as an actuator; - a pressure probe as a sensor and a fan as an actuator; - a hygrometry probe as a sensor and a humidification and / or dehumidification system as an actuator.

5. Configuration method according to one of claims 1 to 4 in which, by means of the configuration web server, at least one alert / alarm is configured from a predetermined list of alerts / alarms depending on the type of air handling unit.

6. Method for reconfiguring an air handling unit in which: having an air handling unit configured according to the configuration method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, . at least one element is added to the air handling unit, . by means of the configuration web server, at least one added element of the air handling unit is selected from a predetermined list of elements depending on the type of air handling unit, . by means of the configuration web server, at least one new regulation function is selected from a predetermined list of regulation functions depending on the type and the added element of the air handling unit, .by means of the configuration web server, said new regulation function is configured, in which the air handling unit comprises said added element, said universal electrical cabinet (10) being set up to operate further with said added element, the automaton being further configured with said new regulation function.

7. A method of configuring air handling units comprising implementing the method of configuring an air handling unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5 for a plurality of air handling units of different types, wherein the universal electrical cabinets (10) of each air handling unit are set up to operate only with said selected elements of each respective unit and each house a respective automaton (6) configured with said regulation functions selected for the respective air handling unit.

8. Set of air handling units each comprising: . at least elements selected from a predetermined list of elements depending on a type of air handling unit chosen from a predetermined list of types of air handling units, . a universal electrical cabinet (10) suitable for any type of air handling unit, and set up to operate only with said selected elements, the universal electrical cabinet housing a PLC incorporating a configuration web server and configured with at least one regulation function selected from a predetermined list of regulation functions depending on the type and elements of the air handling unit, the universal electrical cabinets (10) of the air handling units having the same input / output interfaces.

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