Space Improvement Assembly

JP2024531375A5Pending Publication Date: 2025-07-15ラーマンサジドゥール
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024510260
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2021-08-18
Filing Date
2022-08-18
Publication Date
2025-07-15

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing space maintenance systems face challenges such as inability to fit various infrastructure, inefficient airflow, lack of real-time feedback, high energy consumption, poor communication between hardware and software, and inefficient carbon management, leading to unnecessary waste and user discomfort.

Method used

A modular, plug-and-play space maintenance assembly with sensors and devices that can be easily installed, reconfigured, and relocated, providing real-time feedback and intuitive control to maintain air quality and minimize energy waste.

Benefits of technology

Ensures consistent air quality, reduces energy waste, and promotes user comfort by offering laminar airflow, real-time monitoring, and intelligent control, while being adaptable to changing space needs and reducing carbon emissions.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A space management assembly for a space within a building comprising a housing, at least one sensor within the housing for monitoring an air quality value within the space, at least one space management device within the housing for altering the air quality value within the space, and control means configured to receive values ​​from the at least one sensor and provide an output and / or control the at least one space management device to alter the value, wherein in use the space management assembly is configured to compare the monitored value to one or more predetermined values ​​and provide an output to alert a user and / or control the space management device to alter the monitored value to match the predetermined value.
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of space management assemblies, and more particularly to highly functional space management assemblies for use in commercial and residential buildings. [Background technology]

[0002] The servicing of spaces in buildings and conditioning the air in the built environment is very important for the health and comfort of people who spend time in that environment. Many systems and devices are frequently used to service and condition the air in the space, with the goal of providing an acceptable air quality and a comfortable environment. The infrastructure required to accommodate and serve all of these many systems and devices can usually present challenges: First, the building servicing engineer must analyze the space, estimate its capacity, and design it to provide the appropriate servicing equipment for the space. Second, specialized mechanical contractors and suppliers must install the various servicing equipment in the space, with regulations and inspection items that must be adhered to. Third, the user of the space must control the systems and equipment that service the space and maintain the required level of air quality and comfort during use. The equipment and systems must be monitored and maintained, and parts such as filters must be replaced. Finally, if the use of the space is changed, all installed systems and equipment must be removed and disposed of so that another system can be installed in the space. The existing life cycle of these servicing infrastructures presents many challenges.

[0003] The first challenge is to provide a system that fits into the existing infrastructure and built environment. No two environments are the same and the requirements of users within the space can vary greatly. Some compromises are necessary due to the fixed nature of the available equipment. Existing systems cannot be reconfigured to fit into all existing infrastructure. Installation of the selected system takes a significant amount of time and typically requires the space to be cleared, which can generate a lot of dust and debris within the space, not to mention the noise during the installation process.

[0004] Typically, the ceiling space behind a drop ceiling tends to be cluttered with a variety of equipment, ducts, wires, and other paraphernalia. All of these paraphernalia are intended to organize the space and provide sufficient quality air to the space for user comfort. However, some of these systems allow insufficient airflow, often resulting in stagnant air pockets within the space. The user has some limited control, and is left guessing as to whether changes need to be made to the equipment to change the air quality output. These systems are mostly reactive rather than proactive. The user is rarely provided with feedback to allow them to react, such as warnings of poor air quality.

[0005] In many modern buildings, the design, installation, and control of space-conditioning devices, such as air conditioners, are integrated into one or more Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. This helps to mitigate the chaos caused by multiple devices. However, few such systems offer intuitive control based on real-time feedback; all systems typically require user input.

[0006] Existing space management systems and installations within buildings further pose significant challenges in terms of their impact on climate change. The carbon footprint of buildings, i.e. the carbon emitted by buildings during their construction, use and disposal, is thought to account for around 40% of carbon emissions in the UK. Companies are committed to becoming carbon neutral, but there are few solutions on the market to support this. These buildings waste significant amounts of energy every day. Many governments are committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and to that end, many companies have committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. However, current solutions, products and regulations are far from achieving the goal.

[0007] One of the main problems with existing space maintenance systems and equipment is the lack of communication between the suppliers of the hardware, software, and various maintenance equipment, the users of the space, and the maintenance professionals. This lack of communication often results in the over-selling of unnecessary products, poor quality installation work, and higher energy demands and waste.

[0008] Staff retention also determines the profitability of a business. As many as 90% of business expenses are employee-related. Yet, most companies do not invest enough time and money into improving their employees' experience. Research shows that a healthy, well-designed work environment can improve the mood of those who are in it. Carbon dioxide buildup is a good example of this. It reduces mental alertness and makes users feel sluggish. Yet, typical systems have no way to detect carbon dioxide, nor are they technologically equipped to remove some of it from the space. An intuitively organized air space is key to user comfort.

[0009] Air quality control is also a largely forgotten element. Typical control systems are somewhat limited, perhaps only allowing for varying the temperature within a space. In many cases, the controls are rarely used, with pre-set settings left in place, sometimes changed depending on the season, or used reactively, such as switching on a cooling device to cool the space when the user feels too hot. Equipment provided is often inefficient and ineffective.

[0010] To add to the problem, most installations are custom-made and specific to a particular building or room. If the room is repurposed, such as through relocation or expansion, the equipment cannot usually be moved. This equipment often ends up in landfills as waste.

[0011] An intuitive system of space management is needed to improve airflow within the space and provide laminar airflow to prevent stagnant air buildup. Intuitive space management arrangements must be provided that can be installed and reconfigured to suit the changing needs of any space and that can be moved and rearranged between spaces. An intuitive, real-time feedback loop is needed to control these air conditioning devices and ensure that the maintenance requirements and air quality within the space are always met. Unnecessary energy waste from air conditioning systems in buildings must be prevented and carbon emissions reduced.

[0012] The prior art shows many devices which attempt to address these needs in various ways.

[0013] CN 205 245 441 (Shenzhen Xi'Ao Ind Co Ltd) discloses a suspended ceiling system with lighting, ventilation and air purification means. The unit incorporates at least one sensor, a lighting device, two vents, as well as a filtering means and a carbon filter screen. The system is for an all-in-one air conditioning system to improve the air quality in the environment.

[0014] US 10 310 464 (Phorena Inc) discloses a kit of smart devices for recessed lighting enclosures, which includes smart devices and sensors that fit inside a wall or ceiling mounted lighting assembly and can be retrofitted as a hub for multiple modular and interchangeable smart devices and sensors controlled by hardware and software that are interconnected, such as wirelessly. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] While these prior arts address the problem of assembling servicing equipment to serve a space to improve the air quality within that space, they also appear to incorporate intuitive control of these servicing equipment by the user of the space, but still require user input to make changes to the system and therefore adjustments within the space. These prior arts also aim to address the problems associated with retrofitting existing kits and equipment to provide servicing for a space, but do not facilitate the installation and maintenance of these equipment within the space, nor allow the equipment to be relocated to another space as needed. They also aim to provide a modular, plug-and-play system to prevent unnecessary clutter behind the suspended ceiling, but are limited in the size, number, or type of equipment that can be used in the system. These prior arts do not consider the issue of climate change, or the tracking and prevention of energy waste and carbon emissions.

[0016] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to providing a modular space servicing assembly for an air space, where reconfigurable space servicing components can be easily installed, reconfigured, controlled, maintained, and rearranged, and where the modular space servicing assembly senses and responds to achieve predefined set points and air quality targets within the space. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is further directed to providing a space servicing assembly that provides predefined air quality targets throughout the space. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is further directed to minimizing energy waste in the air conditioning system through intuitive control and sensing means. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a space management assembly for a space within a building comprising a housing, at least one sensor within the housing for monitoring an air quality value within the space, at least one space management device within the housing for altering the air quality value within the space, and control means configured to receive values ​​from the at least one sensor and provide an output and / or control the at least one space management device to alter the value, wherein in use the space management assembly is configured to compare the monitored value to one or more predetermined values ​​and provide an output to alert a user and / or control the space management device to alter the monitored value to match the predetermined value.

[0018] The at least one sensor may comprise one or more of a carbon dioxide sensor, a proximity sensor, a volatile organic compound sensor, a light level sensor, a sound level sensor, a smoke detector, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a filter condition sensor.

[0019] The at least one space preparation device may comprise one or more of air extraction means, air filtering means, air treatment means, acoustic means, heating means and cooling means.

[0020] The output may comprise a visual and / or an audible alarm.

[0021] The output is preferably transmitted wirelessly to the operator interface.

[0022] The operating interface may comprise a smartphone or a tablet.

[0023] The operation interface may be operable to change the predetermined value.

[0024] Preferably, the housing includes a front panel.

[0025] The front panel may incorporate one or more of a speaker, lighting means, UV lighting means, and a microphone.

[0026] The front panel may incorporate at least one sensor.

[0027] Preferably, the housing comprises multiple compartments.

[0028] Each of the multiple compartments may be configured to accommodate a particular space management device.

[0029] Each compartment may be operatively connected to a power source.

[0030] The housing preferably incorporates a number of holes for air flow.

[0031] The space servicing assembly may incorporate a rear cover to prevent the ingress of dust and / or debris.

[0032] The space maintenance assembly may be configured to continually compare the monitored values ​​to one or more predetermined values ​​and provide a real-time output to alert a user and / or control a space maintenance device to modify the monitored values ​​to conform to the predetermined values.

[0033] The space management assembly may be configured to intermittently compare the monitored value to one or more predetermined values ​​at predetermined times or at predetermined time intervals.

[0034] The space arranging assembly is preferably hinged to a ceiling frame-like assembly so that one side of the enclosure can be rotatably lowered for access. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show how embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a space servicing assembly, showing an enclosure with a front panel and one possible arrangement of outlets for a space servicing device within the panel. [Diagram 2] 2 shows the space servicing assembly of FIG. 1 installed within a suspended ceiling frame above the space to be serviced, illustrating the laminar airflow generated within the space by the space servicing assembly. [Figure 3A] 2 is a diagram showing one configuration of the interior of the housing of the space management assembly of FIG. 1 with the cover removed. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B illustrates the internal configuration of the housing of the space management assembly of FIG. 3A, showing one embodiment of an air distribution layer. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates one embodiment of a rear cover for a space management assembly. [Diagram 5] 2 is an exploded view of the space management assembly of FIG. 1 from the underside or rear cover, illustrating one configuration of compartments to which a space management device can be operatively connected. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the space management assembly of FIG. 1 from the front panel side, illustrating the layers that support the space management device. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the airflow through the front panel and housing of the space management assembly, showing how air is drawn in through the lighting recess, supplied from the ceiling space above, conditioned, and pushed out through holes in the housing. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an air distribution layer. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates one embodiment of an air distribution layer, showing the air flow through the air distribution layer. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates one configuration of a space servicing device operatively connected within an enclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the space improving device of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] A diagram showing one embodiment of a frame-like assembly consisting of frame-like parts for suspending the space maintenance assembly in a predetermined position above a space, showing a single part, an arrangement of four frame-like parts, the four frame-like parts aligned with an existing head track, and one embodiment of a hinged access means for accessing a space maintenance device within the space maintenance assembly. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a close-up view of one embodiment of the hinged access means showing the space servicing assembly being lowered by a user for maintenance. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a wall-mounted remote control for remotely operating a space management assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate like or corresponding parts.

[0037] It is to be understood that the various features described below and / or illustrated in the drawings are preferred, but not required. Combinations of features described and / or illustrated are not to be considered as the only possible combinations. Unless otherwise specified, individual features may be omitted, modified, or combined in different combinations, where practical.

[0038] FIG. 1 shows a possible embodiment of a space servicing assembly 1 comprising a housing 2. The housing 2 is made up of a frame-like member and a front panel 10, which faces the space that the space servicing assembly 1 serves. The front panel 10 incorporates lighting means 3. The front panel 10 may further comprise means for supporting one or more speakers 5 in a predetermined position for transmitting sound into the space. The front panel 10 may also incorporate one or more microphones 9 for picking up sound signals from within the space. The front panel 10 may further incorporate a number of sensors 6 for sensing various conditions within the space. In the illustrated embodiment, the space servicing assembly comprises air extraction means for taking air from the space through the lighting recess of the lighting means 3. The frame-like member or wall of the housing 2 comprises a number of holes 7 as air distribution means.

[0039] The front panel 10 may have a replaceable facing to facilitate replacement of the typically most wearable parts of the space management assembly 1. The front panel 10 may be available in a variety of colors and materials to accommodate a variety of environments. The material of the front panel 10 may have properties that minimize acoustic reverberation as standard. If the front panel 10 finish is a woven material, a microphone and / or speaker may be integrated behind this layer. The housing 2 will likely comprise a stamped steel shell or steel case. The housing 2 may allow the space management assembly 1 to sit flush with a ceiling or recessed into a wall (not shown) so that it sits flush with the wall surface.

[0040] The space servicing assembly 1 comprises a single unit providing a servicing system for a space, which may comprise a room in a building, particularly a commercial building, a block of offices, etc. Figure 2 shows the space servicing assembly 1 when configured within a suspended ceiling 11 mounted a short distance below the existing ceiling 14 of the room. Although not shown, the space servicing assembly 1 may also be incorporated within a wall 15 of the room or space. The space servicing assembly 1 generates an airflow 12, drawing air from the space 13 and supplying air to the space from behind the suspended ceiling 11 via ducts, pipes, etc., regulating this airflow according to requirements, and supplying the airflow to the space as required. The space servicing assembly 1 provides a single unit for each servicing task that may be required by the user of the space 13. The space servicing assembly 1 is positioned to promote a laminar airflow 12 throughout the space 13 to reduce areas of stagnant air and ensure quality air throughout the space 13 to meet the user's requirements.

[0041] The space management assembly 1 provides laminar airflow for efficient cooling and air exchange. Such airflow is provided by multiple holes 7 that spread the air evenly. Laminar airflow is defined as air moving at the same speed and in the same direction with no or minimal crossover of airflow. Laminar airflow was initially used as a cooling method to remove warm air by extraction and provide a cooling effect by 360 degree air supply passing over the user. The remaining cooling demand is now low and can be done mechanically. Air may be allowed to flow through the space 13 as needed, such as between meetings or when the occupancy of the space changes.

[0042] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating one embodiment of the housing 2 and the interior structure formed by the shell of the housing 2 that houses various space servicing devices 20 (not shown). FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of an air distribution layer 16 for supporting the distribution of airflow drawn into, servicing, and exhausting from the space servicing assembly 1.

[0043] FIG. 4 shows the space management assembly 1 having a rear cover 17 for entirely housing the space management devices 20 that make up the space management assembly 1 and for preventing the ingress of dust and other debris.

[0044] 5 and 6 are exploded views of the space servicing assembly 1, with FIG. 5 being a view from the rear cover 17 and FIG. 6 being a view from the front panel 10. The space servicing assembly 1 in one embodiment comprises modular layers into which a number of space servicing devices 20 can be plugged. Thus, a single housing 2 can accommodate any number of these space servicing devices 20 in designated compartments 18. The space servicing devices 20 can be effectively "plug and play" in these compartments 18. Each compartment 18 ensures that the space servicing devices 20 are operatively connected to a power source and to any equipment required for functioning. The location of each compartment 18 also ensures an optimal layout of the space servicing devices 20. The space servicing devices 20 may include, but are not limited to, lighting means, air handling means, air extraction means, air movement means, and air filtration means. The rear cover 17 may incorporate one or more air inlets, not shown.

[0045] Next to the air distribution layer 16, a compartment layer, optionally with electrical insulation 19, is located, housing the space servicing device 20 while also incorporating one or more fans 21 for driving the air flow 12. Figure 7 shows the air flow 12, which is sucked up through the lighting recess 24 of the lighting means 3 and taken off as waste through ducts, pipes, etc. The air is supplied to the space through ducts or pipes which enter the space servicing assembly 1 via at least one filter, where it is treated according to the given requirements and then redistributed through the holes 7 of the housing 2. Figures 8A and 8B show a detailed view of the air distribution layer 16. The air is circulated and accelerated within this layer before being forced out through the holes 7 or through an exit vent (not shown).

[0046] 9 and 10 show an embodiment of the space servicing device 20 arranged in a compartment 18 that constitutes the mechanical and electrical layer. Each space servicing device 20 added to this layer or plugged into a given compartment 18 is determined according to the requirements of the space 13 to be served by the space servicing assembly 1, respectively. Thus, the space servicing device 20 may comprise one or more from a list of options, and one or more options. These options include various filters 25 for filtering the air supplied to the space 13. Optionally, the space servicing device 20 may further comprise a heating means 26 for heating the air passing through the space, or a cooling means 27 for cooling the air passing through the space. The mechanical and electrical layers often include compartments 18 made of pressed steel, which provides sufficient strength and fire protection, while allowing the space servicing device 20 to be easily replaced when necessary.

[0047] The space management assembly 1 may incorporate a carbon dioxide sensing means as one of a number of sensors 6 that detect when the level of carbon dioxide in the space exceeds a predetermined level and alert the user accordingly. The sensors 6 may further comprise one or more of a proximity sensor, a volatile organic compound sensor (VOC), a light level sensor, a sound level sensor, a smoke detector, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor.

[0048] The operation of each space maintenance device 20 may be remote controlled or intuitive depending on readings from one of several different sensing means or sensors 6 integrated into the space maintenance assembly 1. Figure 10 shows a central chamber 29 for the air circulation means and an air extraction means 8 with a mesh cover 30. Also shown in this figure is an embodiment of a control means 31 or a means for receiving signals wirelessly from a remote control means, which is placed alongside a server 32 for data processing and machine learning. There is also a power pack or power source 34 operatively connected to all the space maintenance devices 20 that require power, and an air treatment means 35 that supplies additives for treating the air flow. A PCB 38 provides the necessary circuitry to drive each of the components that make up this layer of the space maintenance assembly 1.

[0049] Air is drawn into this layer through air inlet 36, circulates through chamber 16, is filtered through one or more filters 25, is dosed with additives by air treatment means 35, and is discharged through air outlet 37. Air treatment means 35 may include fragrances or may be injected into the air stream through injectable aerosols. Space maintenance assembly 1 may be programmed to emit specific fragrance air sprays at specific times or in response to specific sensed conditions. Air treatment means 35 may include particulate antimicrobial additives that can be sprayed on all surfaces within space 13 to purify the air within space 13 of pathogens. All pathogens and bacteria within space 13 can be eliminated by a combination of air treatment means 35. For example, air filtration means 4 including one or more filters 25, ultraviolet light as part of lighting means 3, and the addition of pathogen killing additives can be combined.

[0050] FIG. 11 illustrates one arrangement of a frame assembly 40 for supporting a space servicing assembly 1 as a suspended ceiling 11 above a room or space 13. This embodiment of the frame assembly 40 is comprised of four identical frame pieces 39, each extending from a corner of the room to support the space servicing assembly 1, leaving a square space between them. The frame assembly 40 may extend from an existing head track 41, or a head track 41 may be installed to support the frame assembly 40. The space servicing assembly 1 may be provided with a convenient means for lowering one side into the room below, and may include hinges 43, allowing a user or maintenance personnel to access the space servicing equipment 20 contained within the assembly. This may include changing the filter 25, servicing the equipment, checking that the system is running efficiently, etc. Filter replacement alerts may be sent to the user through software, and replacement parts may be automatically sent from the manufacturer. The lowering capability of the space servicing assembly 1 eliminates the dangers of using ladders and working at height. The hinge 43 allows the access door or space servicing assembly 1 to be rotated to any angle required for ease of access. The hinge 43 may support the device at a 45 degree angle to a user, or at a 90 degree angle to the ceiling for installation or engineer maintenance purposes without the need for ladder access.

[0051] 12 shows such a lowering arrangement in more detail, with the frame assembly 40 and / or housing 2 provided with a catch or locking means 42 to unlock the lowering lock for access. In one embodiment, the frame assembly 40 is designed to structurally support a ceiling infill or suspended ceiling 11. The frame assembly 40 of the space maintenance assembly 1, together with its extensions and locking means 42, allows the frame assembly 40 to be secured to the framework of most existing partition systems.

[0052] FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of a wall mounted control means 44, which provides remote control for the space management assembly 1. The control means 44 can be placed in a convenient location on the wall 15 to allow the user to easily change settings to make the space more comfortable. The control means 44 may incorporate a display 45 for feedback information such as room temperature, a dial 46 for accessing and changing various settings, and a wireless connection 47 for interacting with the space management assembly 1. The control means 44 may include one or more circular disks or dials 46 that rotate independently to adjust three parameters such as light level, volume, and room temperature. A central two-digit display 45 displays a readout of the particular parameter currently being adjusted. The control means 44 can rotate 360 ​​degrees, but can also rotate by, for example, 45 degrees in any direction to prompt adjustment of settings. The control means 44 may generate its own power through the movement or rotation of the dial 47.

[0053] The control of the light level, and therefore the lighting means 3, is to some extent prescribed in building regulations and guidelines, but the quality of the light or color is not covered. Many standards suggest the ideal light type and color to achieve the human circadian rhythm and best performance. The space maintenance assembly 1 can automatically mimic daylight and gradually change the settings to mimic evening light levels and nighttime light levels to stabilize the user's circadian cycle and improve work, sleep and mood. It is considered that the key to human well-being for any user working in the space and using the space maintenance assembly 1 is to maintain the lighting quality in the range of 90-100 Color Rendering Index (CRI). The space maintenance assembly 1 can be programmed to maintain the lighting quality within this range.

[0054] The control means 44 can also be via a smartphone or tablet device (not shown). A downloadable app for the smartphone or tablet allows full control of the space maintenance assembly 1 while providing access to real-time and historical data as required.

[0055] The software that drives the space management assembly 1 optimizes performance based on user behavior and machine learning against design criteria based on current industry guidelines and standards. The software captures and stores data from various sensors 6. The performance and human health data set is utilized and analyzed to generate reports for the user. Additionally, the user is provided with wellness tips for a healthy work-life balance.

[0056] The sensor 6 may generate measurements of indoor air quality (IAQ). If the IAQ falls below a predetermined level, an alert may be sent to a user or maintenance professional to inform them that there may be an external problem that needs to be addressed. Meanwhile, the space maintenance assembly 1 may automatically adjust performance to return the air quality to a desired or pre-programmed level.

[0057] The software may incorporate pre-settings for new users and provide guidance for setting up and operating the space maintenance assembly 1. For example, if one occupant will be using the space 13 and the occupant is female, current research suggests that women prefer the space 13 to be 2° C. warmer than men. Thus, the pre-settings for a female occupant would incorporate this setting.

[0058] The software may incorporate personalized navigation, data collection and interpretation, and carbon offset data via an app or similar. The software calculates carbon usage, advises on how to make improvements to reduce impact, and provides data for future analysis.

[0059] The space maintenance assembly 1 is configured to purify or clean the air, but is also configured to provide all the necessary maintenance tasks that a user may require within an enclosed environment, such as an office, hotel room, or other enclosed room.

[0060] The Space Maintenance Assembly 1 provides advanced air treatment services such as (but not limited to) carbon filtration and airborne bacteria removal, while also providing additional services such as improved air quality through ionization, door and / or window locking, fire alarm activation, lighting, and a means of wireless communication with the outside world via the user's smartphone or other device. The Space Maintenance Assembly 1 effectively maintains a space and provides all the various maintenance services required within that space. The Space Maintenance Assembly 1 combines all the maintenance services within one compact space.

[0061] The air throughput meets or exceeds building codes, i.e., ensures that the indoor air eventually reaches the desired condition, at which point the space conditioning assembly 1 is slowed down and the dampers closed, stopping the inflow of filtered air from outside and only allowing the indoor air to be recirculated.

[0062] The space management assembly 1 may be configured to provide a dehumidification function to dehumidify the air in the space. A dehumidifier module (not shown) may be connected to each layer of the space management assembly 1 and provided with power to drive the devices described above and to manage the space by removing humidity or moisture from the air, thereby facilitating user comfort.

[0063] The space servicing assembly 1 may incorporate a flush mode that allows the fan to accelerate to full speed so that the air in the air space can be flushed by the fan as quickly and conveniently as possible. The space servicing assembly may also include an emergency shutoff means for shutting off the fan and the optimized supply of air to the air space, preventing the device from providing fuel to the fire in the form of fresh air in the event of a fire. Although not shown, a trigger for activating this emergency shutoff means may be provided by a smoke detector.

[0064] Additionally, if fire or smoke is detected, an alert may be automatically sent to all users or designated emergency contacts within the building, alerting them to the presence of fire and ensuring all personnel in the space are aware that evacuation is necessary.

[0065] The space management assembly 1 may incorporate functionality such that the device has the ability to switch the air supply from only inside the room to only from outside the space.

[0066] The space servicing assembly 1 is adept at replacing air within an air space. In one embodiment, the air being processed by the space servicing assembly 1 and contained within the duct is pressurized. This pressurization is achieved by forcing the air through a number of holes that have a small volume compared to the volume of air contained within the duct, thereby moving the processed air to fill the entire space. The accelerated air can reach further into the space being serviced by the space servicing assembly 1.

[0067] As used herein, the verb "comprise" has its ordinary dictionary meaning of non-exclusive inclusion. That is, the use of the word "comprise" (or any of its derivatives) to include one or more features does not exclude the possibility of including additional features. The word "preferably" (or any of its derivatives) indicates one or more features that are preferred but not required.

[0068] All or any of the features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all or any of the steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0069] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), unless expressly stated otherwise, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is only one generic example of a series of equivalent or similar features.

[0070] The invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing embodiments, and extends to any novel, or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or any novel, or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A space conditioning assembly for a space within a building, comprising: a housing; at least one sensor within the housing for monitoring a value of the quality of air in the space; at least one space conditioning device within the housing for changing the value of the quality of air in the space; control means configured to receive a monitored value from the at least one sensor and to control the at least one space conditioning device; and wherein the space conditioning device has air extraction means, whereby, in use, the air extraction means generates an air flow in the space by taking air into the space and / or supplying air from outside to the space, and the space conditioning assembly compares a monitored value of air quality with one or more predetermined values and provides an output for warning a user of a change in the monitored value and is configured to control the at least one space conditioning device to change the monitored value to match the predetermined value.

2. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor comprises one or more of a carbon dioxide sensor, a proximity sensor, a volatile organic compound sensor, a light level sensor, a noise level sensor, a smoke detector, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a filter status sensor.

3. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one space conditioning device comprises one or more of an air filtration means, an air treatment means, an acoustic means, a heating means, a cooling means.

4. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the output comprises a visual alarm and / or an audible alarm.

5. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 4, wherein the output is wirelessly transmitted to an operation interface.

6. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 5, wherein the operation interface comprises a smartphone or a tablet.

7. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 5, wherein the operation interface is operable to change the predetermined value.

8. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a front panel.

9. The space conditioning assembly according to claim 8, wherein one or more of a speaker, an illumination means, an ultraviolet illumination means, a microphone are incorporated in the front panel.

10. The space organization assembly according to claim 8, wherein the at least one sensor is incorporated in the front panel.

11. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes a plurality of compartments.

12. The space organization assembly according to claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of compartments is configured to accommodate a specific space organization device.

13. The space organization assembly according to claims 11 and 12, wherein each compartment is operably connected to a power source.

14. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of holes for air circulation are incorporated in the housing.

15. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein a rear cover for preventing the intrusion of dust and / or debris is incorporated in the space organization assembly.

16. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein the space organization assembly is configured to continuously compare monitored values with one or more predetermined values, provide a real-time output to warn a user, and / or control the space organization device to change the monitored values to match the predetermined values.

17. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein the space organization assembly is configured to intermittently compare monitored values with one or more predetermined values at a predetermined time or predetermined time intervals.

18. The space organization assembly according to claim 1, wherein the space organization assembly is attached to a ceiling frame assembly by a hinge such that one side of the housing can rotate and descend for access.

19. The space organization assembly substantially described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.