Systems and methods for operating environmental control to reduce virus transmission

Abstract

A method (400) for reducing virus transmission within a sealed space (102) includes providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold at which transmission of a particular virus is reduced (404). The method (400) also includes determining the humidity ratio of a sealed space (102) suitable for receiving organisms (406). The method (400) also includes increasing the humidity ratio within the sealed space (102) until the humidity ratio is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (410) (412).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Related Applications

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 18 / 329,507, filed on June 5, 2023, entitled "System And Method For Operating Climate Control To Reduce Virus Transmission", which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 350,843, filed on June 9, 2022, entitled "System And Method For Operating Climate Control To Reduce Virus Transmission".

[0002] Technical Field

[0002] The disclosed implementations generally relate to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) environmental control systems for vehicles or buildings. In particular, the disclosed implementations relate to systems and methods for operating an HVAC environmental control system to reduce virus transmission within an enclosed space.

Background Art

[0003] Background

[0003] For many viruses, it is known that the transmission rate decreases as humidity increases. For example, influenza has a lower transmission rate at higher humidity. SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) may also have a lower transmission rate at higher humidity. This is at least partially the result of more rapid inactivation of virus particles in a humid environment.

[0004]

[0004] Naturally, there are many ways to indicate humidity, such as relative humidity, absolute humidity, and humidity ratio. Depending on the virus, the function that describes the transmission rate at different humidities may follow one scale of humidity more clearly than another. For example, the virtual virus X may be more susceptible to relative humidity, while the virus Y may be more susceptible to humidity ratio.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005]

[0005] It is desirable to provide a method for monitoring and adjusting an indoor environment including indoor humidity to reduce or eliminate virus transmission.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Overview

[0006] Hereinafter, a system and method for operating an environmental control system to reduce virus transmission will be provided. Operating the environmental control system to adjust the humidity in a sealed space provides a reliable and non-invasive method for reducing the virus transmission rate within the sealed space.

[0007]

[0007] Some implementations provide a method for reducing virus transmission within a space. The method includes providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold at which the transmission of a particular virus decreases, determining a humidity ratio in a sealed space suitable for receiving organisms, and increasing the humidity ratio until the humidity ratio in the sealed space is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some implementations, the minimum humidity ratio threshold includes the minimum humidity ratio at which the half-life of the virus is shortened. In some implementations, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is within a comfort zone. In some implementations, the comfort zone includes the ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, the EN15251 comfort zone, or the Givoni-Milne Bioclimatic Chart comfort zone. In some implementations, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting the humidity ratio with a sensor.

[0008]

[0008] In some implementations, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting at least two of the following metrics: the dry bulb temperature of the space, the wet bulb temperature of the space, the absolute humidity of the space, the relative humidity of the space, the air pressure of the space, the vapor pressure of the space, the volume of air in the space, and the enthalpy of the air in the space, and calculating the humidity ratio based on the at least two detected metrics. In some implementations, increasing the humidity ratio includes operating a humidifier, disabling a dehumidifier, introducing air from outside the space into the space, maintaining the temperature of a coil higher than the dew point of the enclosed space, or disabling a compressor. In some implementations, the method includes determining whether a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space.

[0009]

[0009] In some implementations, the method includes maintaining the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some implementations, the method includes maintaining the humidity ratio between a minimum humidity ratio threshold and a maximum humidity ratio threshold after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to the maximum humidity ratio threshold. In some implementations, the maximum humidity ratio threshold is within a comfort zone. In some implementations, maintaining the humidity ratio includes maintaining the humidity ratio over a predetermined time. In some implementations, the predetermined time is based on the half-life of a virus at the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some implementations, the method includes decreasing the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0010]

[0010] Some implementations provide a system for reducing virus transmission within a space, the system including one or more sensors and a controller electrically coupled to the one or more sensors, the controller being configured to implement any of the methods described above. Some implementations include a non-transitory computer-readable medium that, when executed by one or more processors, includes instructions that cause the one or more processors to implement any of the methods described above.

[0011] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] The implementations disclosed in this specification are shown by way of example, and not limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

[0012] It is a schematic diagram of a sealed space according to some implementations.

Figure 2

[0013] It is a schematic diagram of an HVAC system according to some implementations.

Figure 3

[0014] It is a block diagram showing a controller according to some implementations.

Figure 4

[0015] It is a flowchart of a method for reducing virus transmission in a sealed space according to some implementations.

Figure 5A

[0016] It is an example of a psychrometric chart, some of which include notations indicating some aspects of the present invention.

Figure 5B

[0016] It is an example of a psychrometric chart, some of which include notations indicating some aspects of the present invention.

Figure 5C

[0016] It is an example of a psychrometric chart, some of which include notations indicating some aspects of the present invention.

Figure 5D

[0016] It is an example of a psychrometric chart, some of which include notations indicating some aspects of the present invention.

Figure 5E

[0016] It is an example of a psychrometric chart, some of which include notations indicating some aspects of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Detailed Description

[0017] Here, the implementation forms are referred to in detail, and examples thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various implementation forms described. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various implementation forms described can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the implementation forms.

[0014]

[0018] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, many modifications and variations of the present disclosure can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. The specific implementation forms described herein are provided by way of example only, and the present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims together with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0015]

[0019] The implementation forms of the present disclosure will be described in relation to a refrigerant system for controlling the environment in a sealed space and reducing the probability of virus transmission within the sealed space in use. The refrigerant system disclosed herein can control the humidity within the sealed space so as to reduce the transmission of specific viruses while maintaining the sealed space in a comfortable state or a state suitable for organisms to stay for a long time.

[0016]

[0020] As used herein, "refrigerant" is a fluid adapted to undergo a phase transition between liquid and gas during the operation of the corresponding refrigerant system. For example, the refrigerant has a transition point from liquid to gas below the target operating temperature of the refrigerant system. In various implementation forms, the refrigerant can be a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 refrigerant.

[0017]

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram 100 of a sealed space 102. In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 is an interior portion of a vehicle, such as the cabin of a truck, airplane, ship, or train. In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 is an interior portion of a building, such as a room in a house, a classroom in a school, a lecture hall in a theater, or a floor in an office building. In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 is the entire interior of a vehicle (e.g., each cabin of a train) or a building (e.g., each room in a house).

[0018]

[0022] In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 has an entrance 104 to the space. In some embodiments, the entrance 104 is a door, such as a hinged door, a revolving door, or a sliding door. Alternatively, the entrance 104 is a doorway, a window, or any other access point through which an organism can access the sealed space 102. In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 includes a plurality of such entrances 104. For example, a house having a front entrance, a back entrance, a pet entrance, a garage door, and one or more windows constitutes a sealed space having one or more entrances.

[0019]

[0023] In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 includes a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 106. In some embodiments, the HVAC system 106 includes a compressor 108, a condenser 110, a fan 112, an evaporator 114, and a blower 116. It should be understood that the HVAC system may include more or fewer components. For details of the operation of an example HVAC unit, see FIG. 2 and the related description.

[0020]

[0024] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a recirculation system 118. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 includes a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter 120 or an ultraviolet (UV) light 122. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 uses the HEPA filter 120 and / or the UV light 122 to filter the air from the enclosed space 102 and kill bacteria in the air. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 includes one or more fans 124. In some embodiments, the recirculation system uses one or more fans 124 to draw air from the enclosed space 102 into the recirculation system 118, pass it through the HEPA filter and / or through the UV light, and return it to the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the recirculation system 118 uses one or more fans 124 to circulate the air within the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the recirculation system is outside the enclosed space. For example, in some embodiments, the enclosed space is a room within a building, and the recirculation system is outside the room but is part of the building's ventilation system that is fluidly connected to the room.

[0021]

[0025] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a baffle 126. In some embodiments, the baffle 126 includes a HEPA filter 128 and / or an ultraviolet (UV) light 130. Similar to the recirculation system 118, in some embodiments, the baffle 126 uses the HEPA filter 128 to filter the air from the enclosed space 102 and / or uses the UV light 130 to kill any bacteria / viruses in the air. In some embodiments, the baffle 126 also includes one or more fans 132. In some embodiments, the baffle 126 uses one or more fans 132 to draw air from the enclosed space 102 outside the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the baffle 126 uses one or more fans 132 to draw air from outside the enclosed space 102 into the enclosed space 102. For example, if the air outside the enclosed space has a higher humidity than the air inside the enclosed space, the fan can draw air from outside the enclosed space to increase the humidity inside the enclosed space.

[0022]

[0026] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a humidifier / dehumidifier 134. In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is a humidifier (e.g., a cold mist humidifier, a warm mist humidifier, an ultrasonic humidifier, an evaporative humidifier, or a vaporizer). In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is a dehumidifier (e.g., a heat pump dehumidifier, a dehumidifying ventilator, or a desiccant dehumidifier). In some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 includes one or more devices capable of increasing and decreasing the humidity of the enclosed space 102 (e.g., increasing and decreasing the humidity ratio). In FIG. 1, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is shown as separate from the HVAC system 106. However, in some embodiments, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 is part of the HVAC system 106.

[0023]

[0027] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes a controller 136. In some embodiments, the controller 136 is wirelessly or electrically coupled to one or more of the HVAC system 106, the recirculation system 118, the baffle 126, the humidifier / dehumidifier 134, and one or more sensors 138. In some embodiments, the controller operates automatically (e.g., by implementing the flowchart method 400) without any human intervention. In some embodiments (e.g., without sensors), the user can manually turn on the system. For details of the operation of an example controller, see FIG. 3 and the related paragraphs.

[0024]

[0028] In some embodiments, the enclosed space 102 includes one or more sensors 138. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 include proximity sensors, thermal sensors, optical sensors (e.g., cameras), or motion sensors. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 are configured to detect whether a living being has entered the enclosed space 102. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 include a dry bulb thermometer, a wet bulb thermometer, a capacitance humidity sensor, a resistive humidity sensor, a thermal humidity sensor, a barometer, or a pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 138 detect the humidity of the enclosed space 102 (e.g., absolute humidity, relative humidity, or humidity ratio) or a measure from which the humidity of the enclosed space 102 can be calculated.

[0025]

[0029] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an HVAC system 200, such as the HVAC system 106 of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the HVAC system 200 includes a compressor 208, a condenser 204, an evaporator 214, a first shut-off valve 222, and a second shut-off valve 212. The compressor 208, the condenser 204, the evaporator 214, the first shut-off valve 222, and the second shut-off valve 212 are fluidly connected by refrigerant lines 202 (e.g., refrigerant line 202-1, refrigerant line 202-2, etc.) to form a refrigerant circuit.

[0026]

[0030] In some embodiments, the compressor 208 is powered by a vehicle engine. In some embodiments, the compressor 208 is powered by a power source 206, such as a battery or a power line.

[0027]

[0031] The condenser 204 is configured to condense the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 208. As shown in FIG. 2, the condenser 204 is downstream of the compressor 208. As used herein, the term "downstream" refers to a position in the direction of the refrigerant flow along the refrigerant line. Similarly, the term "upstream" refers to a position opposite to the direction of the refrigerant flow along the refrigerant line. For example, FIG. 2 shows the condenser 204 as being downstream of the compressor 208 and upstream of the evaporator 214, and the refrigerant flow direction is indicated by the arrow on the refrigerant line 202.

[0028]

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2, the evaporator 214 is downstream of the condenser 204 and is fluidly connected to the condenser 204 by refrigerant lines 202-1 and 202-4. The evaporator 214 is configured to evaporate the condensed refrigerant. The first shutoff valve 222 is installed at the refrigerant inlet of the evaporator 214, and the second shutoff valve 212 is installed at the refrigerant outlet of the evaporator 214.

[0029]

[0033] As used herein, the term "refrigerant inlet" refers to the inlet of the corresponding evaporator and the portion of the refrigerant line upstream of the corresponding evaporator. As used herein, the term "refrigerant outlet" refers to the outlet of the corresponding evaporator and the portion of the refrigerant line downstream of the corresponding evaporator. For example, the refrigerant inlet of the evaporator 214 refers to the inlet of the evaporator 214 and the portion of the refrigerant line 202-4 upstream of the evaporator 214. The refrigerant outlet of the evaporator 214 refers to the outlet of the evaporator 214 and the portion of the refrigerant line 202-3 downstream of the evaporator 214.

[0030]

[0034] In some embodiments, the evaporator 214 is in thermal communication with a sealed space, such as the space 102 in FIG. 1, to cool the sealed space. As used herein, the term "in thermal communication" refers to one or more of (i) each evaporator being mounted within the corresponding space to exchange heat with the space or the air within the space, and (ii) each evaporator being connected to a device (e.g., a heat exchanger or a blower) that introduces conditioned air into the space.

[0031]

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 includes a sensor 218 and a controller 224 electrically coupled to the sensor 218. In some embodiments, the sensor 218 is the same as at least one of the sensors 138 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the controller 224 is an intelligent power generation management controller described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0131408, U.S. Patent No. 7,591,143, and U.S. Patent No. 8,453,722, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0032]

[0036] The sensor 218 is configured to perform one or more of (i) measuring the temperature of the evaporator 214 and (ii) measuring the air flow passing through the evaporator 214. If the measured temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature, or if the measured air flow passing through the evaporator 214 is less than a predetermined amount (e.g., 75 CFM), or both, the controller 224 automatically closes or sends an instruction to close the first shut-off valve 222 and the second shut-off valve 212. If the measured temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature or if the measured air flow passing through the evaporator 214 is greater than or equal to a predetermined volume, the controller 224 automatically opens or sends an instruction to open the first shut-off valve 222 and the second shut-off valve 212. In some embodiments, the controller 224 is electrically coupled to one or more other components within the HVAC system. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 224 is electrically coupled to the compressor 208 and automatically controls the operation of the compressor according to ambient temperature, the cooling demand of the space, or other parameters.

[0033]

[0037] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a control valve for selectively restricting or enabling the flow of refrigerant to the compressor. As an example, FIG. 2 shows an HVAC system 200 having a flow control valve 210. The flow control valve 210 is disposed upstream of the compressor 208 in the refrigerant line 202-3 and is configured to selectively restrict or enable the flow of refrigerant to the compressor 208. In some embodiments, the operation of the flow control valve 210 is automatically controlled by the controller 224.

[0034]

[0038] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a metering device for controlling the flow of refrigerant to the evaporator 214. As an example, FIG. 2 shows an HVAC system 200 having a metering device 220. The metering device 220 is disposed between the first shut-off valve 222 and the evaporator 214 in the refrigerant line 202-4 and is configured to control the flow rate of refrigerant to the evaporator 214. In some embodiments, the metering device 220 is a thermostatic expansion valve. In some embodiments, the operation of the metering device 220 is automatically controlled by the controller 224.

[0035]

[0039] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes a receiver / dryer 228. The receiver / dryer 228 is disposed between the condenser 204 and the evaporator 214 in the refrigerant lines 202-1, 202-4. The receiver / dryer 228 is configured to temporarily store refrigerant, absorb moisture from the refrigerant, or both.

[0036]

[0040] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 200 of the present invention includes one or more blowers and / or one or more fans to improve the performance of some components within the HVAC system 200. As an example, FIG. 2 shows an HVAC system 200 having a blower 216 and a fan 226. The blower 216 is positioned proximate to the first evaporator 214 and configured to blow air onto the evaporator 214. The air is cooled as it passes through the evaporator 214 and can be introduced into the space for cooling purposes. The fan 226 is positioned proximate to the condenser 204 and configured to blow air onto the condenser 204 to cool the air. As the air passes through the condenser 204, the air removes heat from the condenser 204 and thus improves the performance of the condenser 204.

[0037]

[0041] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a controller 300, such as the controller 136 of FIG. 1 or the controller 248 of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the controller 300 includes one or more central processing units (CPUs) 302, one or more network communication interfaces 316, a memory 320, and one or more communication buses 344 interconnecting these components. In some embodiments, the controller 300 includes a user interface 310 including a display 312 or an input device 314.

[0038]

[0042] According to some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to one or more sensors 304, such as one or more of the sensors 138 of FIG. 1 or the sensor 218 of FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to a baffle 306, such as the baffle 126 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to a humidity controller 308 that may include a humidifier and / or a dehumidifier, such as the humidifier / dehumidifier 134 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to a recirculation system 311, such as the recirculation system 118 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the controller 300 is coupled to an HVAC system, such as the HVAC system 106 of FIG. 1 or the HVAC system 200 of FIG. 2.

[0039]

[0043] The network communication interface 316 includes hardware that can perform data communication using any other suitable communication protocol, including, for example, any of various custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) and / or any of various custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.) or communication protocols that are still being developed as of the filing date of this application.

[0040]

[0044] In some embodiments, memory 320 includes high-speed random access memory such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR SRAM, or other random access solid state memory devices. In some embodiments, memory 320 includes non-volatile memory such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. In some embodiments, memory 320 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, memory 320 or the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of memory 320 stores the following programs, modules, and data structures or subsets or supersets thereof: (1) an operating system 322 that processes various system services and executes hardware-dependent tasks, (2) a communication module 324 that connects to and communicates with other network devices via one or more networks (e.g., in conjunction with network communication interface 316), (3) a user interface module 326 that receives input from a user and displays information to the user, (4) a sensor module 328 that monitors and collects data from various sensors such as one or more sensors 138 of FIG. 1 or sensor 218 of FIG. 2, (5) a humidity control module 330 that raises, lowers, or maintains the humidity of a space such as the enclosed space 102 of FIG. 1, and (6) an HVAC system control module 332 that operates HVAC system 318.

[0041]

[0045] In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data corresponding to measurements from one or more sensors such as one or more of the sensors 138 of FIG. 1 or the sensor 218 of FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data corresponding to the humidity ratio of an enclosed space such as the enclosed space 102 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 generates an alert or sets a flag when the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is a threshold such as the minimum humidity ratio threshold or the maximum humidity ratio threshold described with respect to FIG. 4, above the threshold, or below the threshold. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 sends a signal to the humidity control module 330 when the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is a threshold, above the threshold, or below the threshold. In some embodiments, the signal from the sensor module 328 to the humidity control module 330 indicates that the humidity control module 330 should increase, decrease, or maintain the humidity ratio of the enclosed space.

[0042]

[0046] In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data corresponding to measurements from one or more sensors such as one or more of the sensors 138 of FIG. 1 or the sensor 218 of FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data suggesting that a living being may be approaching, entering, or occupying an enclosed space such as the enclosed space 102 of FIG. 1. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor module 328 receives data from one or more sensors and uses that data to determine whether a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 generates an alert or sets a flag when it determines that a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the sensor module 328 starts a method such as the method 400 of FIG. 4 when it determines that a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space.

[0043]

[0047] In some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 receives an input from the sensor module 328. In some embodiments, the signal from the sensor module 328 includes a request to increase, decrease, or maintain the humidity ratio of an enclosed space such as the enclosed space 102 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 increases the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, such as by initiating any of steps 414, 416, 418, 420, and 422 of FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 decreases the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, such as by aborting or reversing any of steps 414, 416, 418, 420, and 422 of FIG. 4. Also, in some embodiments, the humidity control module 330 maintains the humidity ratio of the enclosed space, such as by intermittently performing any of steps 414, 416, 418, 420, and 422 of FIG. 4.

[0044]

[0048] Each of the elements identified above corresponds to a set of instructions for performing the functions described herein. The modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) identified above need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, and thus, various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwise rearranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the memory 320 optionally stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. In some embodiments, the memory 320 stores additional modules and data structures not described above.

[0045]

[0049] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method 400 for reducing virus transmission within a sealed space such as the sealed space 102 of FIG. 1. Similar to the sealed space 102 of FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the sealed space considered with respect to FIG. 4 is an interior portion of a vehicle, such as the cabin of a truck, airplane, ship, or train. Similarly, in some embodiments, the sealed space is an interior portion of a building, such as a room in a house, a classroom in a school, a lecture hall in a theater, or a floor in an office building. In some embodiments, the sealed space 102 is the entire interior of a vehicle (e.g., the cabin of an airplane, the cockpit, etc.) or a building (e.g., each room in a house). The virus considered with respect to FIG. 4 is any known or still undiscovered virus that is susceptible to humidity (e.g., can be killed by high humidity or low humidity), including Influenza A, Influenza B, and SARS-CoV-2 virus.

[0046]

[0050] In some embodiments, it is determined whether an organism has entered the sealed space (402). For example, in some embodiments, one or more sensors, such as one or more of the sensors 138 of FIG. 1 or the sensor 304 of FIG. 3, are used to detect that an organism has entered the space. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method includes determining whether an organism is approaching or occupying the sealed space. For example, in some embodiments, the method includes receiving, from a user's electronic device (e.g., a smartphone, a laptop, an identification badge), a signal (e.g., a message, a WiFi connection, a Bluetooth connection, GPS data) indicating that an organism is approaching or occupying the sealed space. As another example, in some embodiments, the method includes using artificial intelligence (e.g., computer vision) to interpret data collected by a camera to determine whether an organism is approaching or occupying the sealed space.

[0047]

[0051] First determining whether a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space is useful for the purpose of efficiently reducing virus transmission. For example, if the confined space is empty (i.e., there is no living being inside the confined space), the risk of virus transmission among living beings in the confined space is zero. Similarly, if there is only a single living being inside the confined space, there is no risk of virus transmission among the living beings in the confined space. However, for example, if there are already living beings inside the confined space and another living being enters the confined space, there may be a risk of virus transmission between the two living beings. Therefore, in some embodiments, first, it is determined whether a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space in order to determine that there is a risk of virus transmission.

[0048]

[0052] Generally, "living being" refers to animals (e.g., humans), plants, fungi, protists, and bacteria. However, in some embodiments, the determination of whether a living being is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space involves filtering for certain types of living beings. For example, in some embodiments, the determination includes determining whether a human is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space. As another example, in some embodiments, the determination includes filtering for animals (i.e., animals other than humans). As another example, in some embodiments, the determination includes determining whether a plant is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space. In some embodiments, determining whether a certain type of living being is approaching, entering, or occupying a confined space includes filtering for that certain type of living being using artificial intelligence (e.g., computer vision).

[0049]

[0053] In some embodiments, if it is determined (402-N) that no organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space, the method loops to continue to determine (402) whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In other words, the determination (402) is repeated until it is determined (402-Y) that an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the method continues to determine (402) whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space even after it is determined that an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space (e.g., simultaneously with other steps of method 400).

[0050]

[0054] When it is determined (402-Y) that an organism is approaching, entering, or within the enclosed space (or in some embodiments that do not include first determining whether an organism has entered the enclosed space), the method includes determining (404) the humidity ratio (H R ) of the enclosed space. In other embodiments, the method includes determining the relative humidity, absolute humidity, or humidity ratio of the space.

[0051]

[0055] In other embodiments, other humidity measurements such as relative humidity, absolute humidity, or specific humidity are used instead of the humidity ratio.

[0052]

[0056] As described above, for some viruses, humidity is related to the transmission rate of the virus. For example, the transmission rate of influenza is known to decrease in high humidity environments. Thus, in some embodiments, determining the humidity ratio (H R ) of the enclosed space is useful for determining whether to increase the humidity to reduce the transmission rate of the virus within the enclosed space. Similarly, determining other humidity measurements such as the absolute humidity, relative humidity, humidity ratio, etc., described above, may also be useful for establishing a baseline predicted virus transmission rate and determining whether to increase the humidity.

[0053]

[0057] In some embodiments, determining the humidity ratio (H R ) of the enclosed space includes detecting the humidity ratio (406) using a sensor capable of detecting the humidity ratio. In some embodiments, the determination includes detecting other metrics (408) that can be used to calculate the humidity ratio. For example, in some embodiments, the other metrics include at least two of dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature, absolute humidity, relative humidity, air pressure, vapor pressure, volume of air, enthalpy, mass of water in the moist air sample, and total mass of the moist air sample. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to calculate the humidity ratio from these metrics. For example, in some embodiments, the humidity ratio is calculated using a psychrometric chart. For a brief discussion of the psychrometric chart relevant to embodiments of the present invention, see FIGS. 5A-5E.

[0054]

[0058] As another example, in some embodiments, the humidity ratio is given by the following formula:

Equation

[0055]

[0059] In some embodiments, the method includes determining (410) whether the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ). In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is based on the minimum humidity ratio at which the half-life of the virus is shortened by a predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is based on the minimum humidity ratio at which the transmission rate of the virus is reduced by a predetermined amount.

[0056]

[0060] In some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is within a comfort zone such as the ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, the EN15251 comfort zone, or the Givoni-Milne bioclimatic Chart comfort zone. In other words, in some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) falls within a zone that defines temperatures and humidities that are comfortable for humans (e.g., not too hot, not too cold, not too humid, or not too dry), such as a humidity ratio of from about 0.0073 (lb moisture) / (lb dry air) at 68°F at 50% RH and a high potential transmission rate is calculated).

[0057]

[0061] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) is slightly outside the comfort zone (e.g., 1%, 2%, or 5% outside the comfort zone). For example, if it is particularly important to reduce the virus transmission rate, the humidity ratio can be raised outside the comfort zone. In some embodiments, this can mean that the temperature and / or humidity in the enclosed space is slightly uncomfortable for a limited time to reduce the likelihood of virus transmission from one organism in the enclosed space to another organism in the enclosed space.

[0058]

[0062] In some embodiments, if it is determined that the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (410 - Y), the humidity ratio is increased (412). For example, in some embodiments, increasing the humidity ratio includes one or more of operating a humidifier (414), disabling a dehumidifier (416), introducing air from outside the enclosed space into the enclosed space (418), maintaining the temperature of the coil above the dew point (420), and disabling a compressor (422). In some embodiments, if it is determined that the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (410 - Y), the method loops to continuously increase (412) the humidity ratio of the enclosed space until it is determined that the humidity ratio is not less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (410 - N).

[0059]

[0063] In some embodiments, the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (i.e., the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (greater than and / or equal to) (410-N), a timer is set (424). In some embodiments, the timer is a countdown timer. In some embodiments, the duration of the timer is based on the half-life of the virus at the humidity ratio associated with the minimum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, the duration of the timer is based on the transmission rate of the virus at the humidity ratio associated with the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0060]

[0064] In some embodiments, the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) (i.e., the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN If the humidity ratio is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum humidity ratio threshold (410-N), the humidity ratio is increased (not shown) until it reaches or exceeds the maximum humidity ratio threshold. In some embodiments, after the humidity ratio reaches the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is maintained for a predetermined period of time. In other embodiments, after the humidity ratio reaches the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the method loops again (402) to determine whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space.

[0061]

[0065] In some embodiments, it is determined whether the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is less than a minimum humidity ratio threshold (426). In other embodiments, the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold by some buffer amount (H x ) plus (426). Additionally, in some embodiments, it is determined whether the humidity ratio is greater than a maximum humidity ratio threshold (not shown). If it is determined that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the humidity ratio is decreased.

[0062]

[0066] In some embodiments, a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is used to regulate the humidity ratio to a minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MINMaintain it above (not shown). In some embodiments, a PID controller is used to also maintain the humidity ratio below a maximum humidity ratio threshold over a predetermined time (not shown). In some embodiments, the predetermined time is based on the half-life of the virus, the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ), the maximum humidity ratio threshold, the size of the enclosed space, the morbidity rate of the virus, the number of organisms in the enclosed space, and / or the proximity of the organisms to each other.

[0063]

[0067] Maintaining the humidity ratio (H R ) of the enclosed space within the comfort zone is important for maintaining the environment of the enclosed space in a comfortable state for the organisms occupying it. Maintaining the humidity ratio (H R ) within the comfort zone also helps to avoid problems associated with environments with high humidity, such as mold. However, in some embodiments, during a global pandemic where, for example, reducing the virus transmission rate is of utmost importance, the humidity ratio (H R ) of the enclosed space can be increased (or optionally decreased) beyond the range of the comfort zone.

[0064]

[0068] In some embodiments, if it is determined that the humidity ratio is less than the sum of the minimum humidity ratio threshold and / or the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) and the buffer amount (H X ) (426 - Y), increase the humidity ratio (428). In some embodiments, increasing the humidity ratio includes, for example, any of the steps described above with respect to step 412.

[0065]

[0069] In some embodiments, if it is determined that the humidity ratio is not less than the sum of the minimum humidity ratio threshold and / or the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) and the buffer amount (H X ) (i.e., it is greater than or equal to the sum of the minimum humidity ratio threshold and / or the minimum humidity ratio threshold (H MIN ) and the buffer amount (H X )) (426 - N), the method then includes determining whether the timer has expired (430).

[0066]

[0070] If it is determined that the timer has not expired (430-N), in some embodiments, the method then includes re-determining whether the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold (426). Similarly, in other embodiments, if it is determined that the timer has not expired (430-N), the method then includes re-determining whether the humidity ratio is less than the sum of the minimum humidity ratio and the buffer amount (426).

[0067]

[0071] In some embodiments, instead, if it is determined that the timer has expired (430-Y), then it is determined whether an organism is approaching, entering, or occupying the enclosed space (402). Instead, in some embodiments, after it is determined that the timer has expired (430-Y), the humidity ratio of the enclosed space is determined (404).

[0068]

[0072] FIGS. 5A-5E are examples of psychrometric charts, some of which demonstrate some aspects of the described embodiments. A psychrometric chart is a graph of the thermodynamic parameters of air. For example, the psychrometric chart 500 shown in FIG. 5A shows relative humidity, dry bulb temperature, specific volume, specific enthalpy, wet bulb temperature, humidity ratio, and dew point temperature. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to read a psychrometric chart such as the psychrometric chart 500. Nevertheless, FIG. 5B includes a brief explanation regarding the interrelationships of the various parameters represented in the psychrometric chart 500.

[0069]

[0073] FIG. 5B includes lines representing six parameters shown by the psychrometric chart 500. First, line 502 represents relative humidity. Second, line 504 indicates dry bulb temperature. Third, line 506 indicates specific volume. Fourth, line 508 indicates specific enthalpy. Fifth, line 510 indicates wet bulb temperature. Also, sixth, line 512 indicates humidity ratio.

[0070]

[0074] The intersections of lines 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, and 512 demonstrate the usefulness of the psychrometric chart 500. Thereby, several metrics can be calculated based on the knowledge of at least two other metrics. For example, based on the measured relative humidity of 60% and the measured dry-bulb temperature of 22°C, the humidity ratio can be determined using the psychrometric chart 500. First, find the intersection of the line representing 60% relative humidity (i.e., line 502) and the line representing a dry-bulb temperature of 22°C (i.e., line 504). Then, trace the intersection of these two lines to the right (i.e., along line 512) and determine that the humidity ratio is 0.010 grams of water per gram of dry air.

[0071]

[0075] Figure 5C includes a comfort zone example 520. The comfort zone 520 represents the range of temperature and humidity that many people consider comfortable. For example, a dry-bulb temperature of 22°C (71.6°F) and a relative humidity of 50% fall within the comfort zone 520. In other words, assuming that the illustrated comfort zone 520 accurately represents the temperature that most people find comfortable, most people would consider a room maintained at a dry-bulb temperature of 22°C and a relative humidity of 50% to be comfortable.

[0072]

[0076] The illustrated comfort zone 520 is in an elliptical shape extending from a dry-bulb temperature of 20 - 25°C and a total humidity of 20 - 80%. However, the comfort zone 520 is merely an example of a comfort zone. For the purposes of the present invention, in some embodiments, the comfort zone is a comfort zone other than the illustrated comfort zone 520. For example, the comfort zone can be a standard comfort zone such as the ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, the EN15251 comfort zone, or the Givoni-Milne Bioclimatic Chart comfort zone.

[0073]

[0077] Figure 5D includes five propagation zones indicating different virus propagation degrees. Similar to the comfort zone 520, the illustrated propagation zones 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 are provided for illustrative purposes only. References to "propagation zones" and the like elsewhere in this specification may refer to zones having boundaries different from those shown in Figure 5D. Further, in some embodiments, the propagation zones vary based on the corresponding virus. For example, the zero propagation zone 538 may exist only at very high humidity for a first virus, but the zero propagation zone 538 may exist at medium to high levels of humidity for a second virus.

[0074]

[0078] However, the propagation zones 530, 532, 534, 536, or 538 are divided by horizontal lines corresponding to various humidity ratios. As described elsewhere in this specification, the transmission rate of a virus decreases as the humidity increases. Accordingly, the five propagation zones shown in Figure 5D represent various degrees of risk for virus transmission. For example, the propagation zone 530 represents a high-risk propagation zone. At the humidity of the propagation zone 530, the virus transmission rate is extremely high (e.g., 68°F at 25%RH in zone 1 corresponds to a humidity ratio of 0.0036 (lb moisture) / (lb dry air) and a transmission probability of 80 - 100%). The propagation zone 532 represents a medium-risk propagation zone. The transmission rate in this zone is slightly lower than that of the propagation zone 530. The propagation zone 534 represents a stable zone. The propagation zone 536 represents a low-risk zone. Also, the propagation zone 538 represents a zero propagation zone. The virus transmission risk in this zone is zero or very close to it.

[0075]

[0079] Figure 5E includes the propagation zones 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 of FIG. 5D, along with the comfort zone 520 of FIG. 5C. As shown in FIG. 5E, the comfort zone 520 intersects a plurality of propagation zones, including propagation zone 530, propagation zone 532, and propagation zone 534. As described with respect to FIG. 5C, a comfortable environment is defined by the boundaries of the comfort zone 520. Also, as previously described with respect to FIG. 5D, the risk of virus transmission decreases in the higher zones. Thus, the present invention is directed to remaining within the comfort zone 520 while maintaining a high humidity ratio (i.e., remaining in the lowest risk propagation zone possible).

[0076] Aspect example

[0080] Here, several aspect examples will be briefly described.

[0077]

[0081] (A1) According to some embodiments, a method for reducing virus transmission in a space is provided. The method includes providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold at which the transmission of a particular virus decreases. The method includes determining the humidity ratio of a sealed space suitable for receiving organisms, and increasing the humidity ratio within the sealed space until the humidity ratio is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0078]

[0082] (A2) In some embodiments of A1, the minimum humidity ratio threshold includes the minimum humidity ratio at which the half-life of the virus is shortened.

[0079]

[0083] (A3) In some embodiments of any of A1 - A2, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is within the comfort zone.

[0080]

[0084] (A4) In some embodiments of any of A1 - A3, the comfort zone includes one of the ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, the EN15251 comfort zone, or the Givoni - Milne Bioclimatic Chart comfort zone.

[0081]

[0085] (A5) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A4, the virus is Influenza A.

[0082]

[0086] (A6) In some embodiments of A5, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

[0083]

[0087] (A7) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A6, the virus is SARS-CoV-2.

[0084]

[0088] (A8) In some embodiments of A7, the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

[0085]

[0089] (A9) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A8, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting the humidity ratio with a sensor.

[0086]

[0090] (A10) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A9, determining the humidity ratio includes detecting at least two of the following metrics: the dry bulb temperature of the space, the wet bulb temperature of the space, the absolute humidity of the space, the relative humidity of the space, the air pressure of the space, the vapor pressure of the space, the volume of air in the space, and the enthalpy of the air in the space, and calculating the humidity ratio based on the at least two detected metrics.

[0087]

[0091] (A11) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A10, the enclosed space includes the interior of a vehicle.

[0088]

[0092] (A12) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A10, the enclosed space includes a room.

[0089]

[0093] (A13) In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A12, the organism is a human.

[0090]

[0094] (A14)In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A13, increasing the humidity ratio includes at least one of operating a humidifier, disabling a dehumidifier, introducing air outside the space into the space, maintaining the temperature of the coil higher than the dew point of the space, and disabling a compressor.

[0091]

[0095] (A15)In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A14, the method further includes detecting that a living being has entered the space before increasing the humidity ratio.

[0092]

[0096] (A16)In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A15, the method further includes maintaining the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to a minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0093]

[0097] (A17)In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A16, the method further includes maintaining the humidity ratio between a minimum humidity ratio threshold and a maximum humidity ratio threshold after determining that the humidity ratio is at least equal to the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0094]

[0098] (A18)In some embodiments of A17, the maximum humidity ratio threshold is within a comfort zone.

[0095]

[0099] (A19)In some embodiments of any one of A16 to A18, maintaining the humidity ratio includes maintaining the humidity ratio over a predetermined time.

[0096]

[0100] (A20)In some embodiments of A19, the predetermined time is based on the half-life of the virus at the minimum humidity ratio threshold.

[0097]

[0101] (A21)In some embodiments of any one of A1 to A20, the method further includes decreasing the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

[0098]

[0102] (B1) According to some embodiments, a system for reducing virus transmission in a space is provided. The system (e.g., the systems of FIGS. 1 and 2) includes one or more sensors and a controller electrically coupled to the one or more sensors. The controller is configured to implement any of methods A1 - A21.

[0099]

[0103] (C1) According to some embodiments, a non - transitory computer - readable medium that, when executed by one or more processors of a system (e.g., the systems of FIGS. 1 and 2), includes instructions for causing the one or more processors to implement any of methods A1 - A21.

[0100]

[0104] In this specification, terms such as "first", "second", etc. may be used to describe various elements, but it will be understood that these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another.

[0101]

[0105] The terms used in this specification are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. When used in the description of embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" as used in this specification refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Further, the terms "comprising" and / or "including" as used in this specification, when used, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0102]

[0106] As used in this specification, the term "when ~" can be interpreted, depending on the context, to mean "when", or "upon", or "in response to determining that", or "in accordance with the determination that", or "in response to detecting that" the stated precondition is true. Similarly, the phrases "when it is determined that [the stated precondition is true]", or "when [the stated precondition is true]", or "when [the stated precondition is true]" can be interpreted, depending on the context, to mean "when determining that", or "in response to determining that", or "in accordance with the determination that", or "when detecting that", or "in response to detecting that" the stated precondition is true.

Claims

1. A method for reducing virus transmission in a space, comprising: providing a minimum humidity ratio threshold at which the transmission of a specific virus is reduced; determining the humidity ratio of a sealed space suitable for receiving organisms; increasing the humidity ratio in the sealed space until the humidity ratio is at least equal to the minimum humidity ratio threshold in response to determining that the humidity ratio is less than the minimum humidity ratio threshold; and a method comprising the above.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the minimum humidity ratio threshold includes the minimum humidity ratio at which the half-life of the virus is shortened.

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

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the comfort zone includes one of the ASHRAE Standard 55 comfort zone, the EN 15251 comfort zone, or the Givoni-Milne Bioclimatic Chart comfort zone.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the virus is Influenza A.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

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

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the minimum humidity ratio threshold is 0.01 lb / lb.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein determining the humidity ratio includes detecting the humidity ratio with a sensor.

10. Determining the humidity ratio includes: detecting at least two of the following metrics: the dry bulb temperature of the space, the wet bulb temperature of the space, the absolute humidity of the space, the relative humidity of the space, the air pressure of the space, the vapor pressure of the space, the volume of air in the space, and the enthalpy of the air in the space; and calculating the humidity ratio based on the at least two detected metrics. The method according to claim 1, comprising the above.

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

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the sealed space includes a room.

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

14. Increasing the humidity ratio includes at least one of operating a humidifier, disabling a dehumidifier, introducing air from outside the space into the space, maintaining the temperature of a coil higher than the dew point of the space, and disabling a compressor.

15. The method according to claim 1, further comprising detecting that an organism has entered the space before increasing the humidity ratio.

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

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

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

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

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

21. The method according to claim 1, further comprising decreasing the humidity ratio after determining that the humidity ratio is greater than the maximum humidity ratio threshold.

22. A system for reducing virus transmission in a space, comprising: one or more sensors; a controller electrically connected to the one or more sensors, the controller being configured to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 21 A system comprising.

23. A non-transitory computer-readable medium that, when executed by one or more processors, includes instructions that cause the one or more processors to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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