Air circulatory system with ERV, heater, and air condition system

Abstract

A system may include a unit having an energy recovery ventilator configured to transfer heat and moisture from a first air stream to a second air stream and further including an air conditioning system comprising a condenser, compressor, and evaporator, wherein the air conditioning system includes a plurality of refrigerant lines containing pre-pressurized refrigerant, and wherein the air conditioning system has a capacity from 1000 to 4000 BTUs.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of the following patent application: U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 63 / 565,594 filed on Mar. 15, 2024.

[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.BACKGROUND

[0003] The present invention relates generally to compact air circulatory and conditioning systems for fresh air exchange of small, interior spaces.

[0004] Interior rooms of a residential home can require fresh air to be circulated for removing contaminants, unpleasant odors, and otherwise stale air. Systems such as Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) may be implemented in residential and / or commercial spaces to exchange fresh exterior air with stale interior air. The interior air, or stale air, is exhausted from the interior a home, for example, while fresh, exterior air is vented into the interior thereby exchanging stale air for fresh air. Part of the ERV system includes a core which allows for the temperature and moisture differential between the exhaust air and the intake air to pre-condition the intake air prior to being supplied into the interior of a home. While this allows for some pre-conditioning of the air to occur, the ERV system is generally not able to fully condition the intake air to match the exhaust air. Thus, the central HVAC system is still required to fully condition the newly supplied air.

[0005] Small interior rooms of a residential home or commercial building may not be accessed by the central HVAC system such that the air in these rooms is more likely to become stale due to the lack of air exchange. In particular, bathrooms, laundry rooms, closets, and the like, can be more susceptible to poor air exchange than other interior rooms that are connected to the central HVAC system, or a specific HVAC unit dedicated to the room, like a mini-split HVAC system.

[0006] What is needed, then, is a compact air circulatory and conditioning system that combines an energy recovery system and heating / cooling system to minimize energy loss and match supply air to indoor air temperature and humidity.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system including: a housing having an exterior and an interior, the interior including a plurality of compartments, wherein the interior includes: an energy recovery ventilator configured to transfer heat and moisture from a first air stream to a second air stream; and an air conditioning system including a condenser, compressor, and evaporator, wherein the air conditioning system includes a plurality of refrigerant lines containing pre-pressurized refrigerant, and wherein the air conditioning system has a capacity from 1000 to 4000 BTUs.

[0008] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air conditioning system having a capacity of about 3000 BTUs.

[0009] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a housing having a plurality of compartments includes a first compartment having the energy recovery ventilator therein, and a second compartment having the air conditioning system therein, wherein the first compartment and second compartment are isolated.

[0010] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system having at least one exhaust fan located external to the housing and configured to generate at least one exhaust air stream directed toward the housing.

[0011] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more ducts having a first end being connected to the at least one exhaust fan and a second end being connected to the housing, and configured to direct the exhaust air stream from the at least one exhaust fan to the housing.

[0012] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including an exit vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for venting the exhaust air stream to the outdoor environment, and wherein one or more ducts are connected between the housing and exit vent configured to direct the exhaust air stream to the exit vent.

[0013] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including at least one intake fan located internal to the housing and configured to generate at least one intake air stream.

[0014] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more ducts connected on a first end to the housing and a second end connected to an intake vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for intake of air from the outdoor environment.

[0015] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the first air stream or the second air stream, but not both, is an intake air stream, the intake air stream directed through the energy recovery ventilator such that heat and moisture transfer to the intake air stream, and wherein the intake air stream contacts the evaporator and then is supplied through a supply vent into the interior room of the dwelling.

[0016] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the first compartment contains sub-compartments for isolating the first air stream from the second air stream.

[0017] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system including: a central unit having a plurality of components including an energy recovery ventilator, an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and wherein the central unit has a controller communicatively associated with one or more of the plurality of components; wherein the controller is configured to operate the air circulatory system in a plurality of modes of operation wherein the controller selectively operates one or more of the components.

[0018] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the mode of operation is selected by a user.

[0019] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the mode of operation is determined by the controller based on one or more inputs to the controller.

[0020] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the one or more inputs to the controller include at least one of temperature or humidity, or both, and wherein the temperature or humidity may be sensed from the interior room of the dwelling, or from the outdoor environment outside of the dwelling, or both.

[0021] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator to the exclusion of the evaporator, condenser, and compressor.

[0022] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the evaporator, condenser, and compressor to the exclusion of the energy recovery ventilator.

[0023] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator, the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor.

[0024] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator for a first length of time, and operating the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor for a second length of time, wherein the first length of time and the second length of time overlap.

[0025] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more sensors for sensing a parameter which may be provided to the controller, wherein the one or more sensors may sense at least one of temperature or humidity, or both.

[0026] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including a user interface that is communicatively linked to the controller, wherein a user may provides inputs to the user interface for selecting one or more modes of operation of the plurality of modes of operation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one aspect of the disclosure demonstrating an air circulatory system and one or more components included therein in a dwelling.

[0028] FIG. 2 is an illustration of one aspect of the disclosure demonstrating a central unit housing one or more components of the air circulatory system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present disclosure describes or illustrates one or more embodiments that incorporate features of the claimed invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplifies the claimed invention. The scope of the claimed invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s).

[0030] References in the specification to “one embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0031] The term “air conditioning” as used herein, may be understood to mean altering one or more characteristics of air such as, but not limited to, temperature and humidity, and further including removal of particles, biological material, bacteria, viruses, etc. for the comfort of occupants inside a dwelling.

[0032] The term “energy recovery ventilator” or “ERV” as used herein, may be understood to mean a unit containing an air-to-air exchanger capable of transferring a temperature differential (heating a cooler air stream, or cooling a hotter air stream) and / or moisture differential (increase / decrease moisture content) from one air stream to another air stream. It will also be understood that an ERV, as used herein, may also encompass a “heat recovery ventilator” (“HRV”) which is capable of only transferring a temperature differential (and not moisture differential) from one air stream to another.

[0033] The air circulatory system 100 provides substantial benefits over the prior art, including enhanced indoor air quality through fresh air exchange, improved energy efficiency with heat and / or moisture recovery capabilities, year-round thermal comfort for the occupants with the integrated heating and cooling capacity, reduced reliance on separate heating and cooling systems which may result in reduced cost and maintenance, adaptability of the compact system in a variety of dwelling types, and the ability to be implemented in a new-build housing structure, or retrofitted into an existing housing structure. The proposed integration of an exhaust fan system, an ERV, and a heating and air conditioning system represents a significant advancement in small interior room ventilation technology. By increasing energy efficiency, comfort, and air quality, the aspects of this disclosure addresses the needs of residential an commercial spaces.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an air circulatory system 100 is illustrated having an outer housing 102 for at least partially enclosing an energy recovery ventilator 104 (ERV), cooling unit 106, and heating unit 108, all integrated into a unit that is configured to be installed inside a dwelling or other occupied structure. In accordance with aspects, as disclosed herein, an intake air stream 120 may enter the system 100 via one or more ducts 114, be passed through the ERV wherein the intake air stream is pre-conditioned based on at least the temperature differential to the exhaust air stream 130, and if included, the moisture differential to the exhaust air stream. The intake air stream may be further conditioned by the heating / cooling units 106, 108 as necessary, to condition the air prior to being supplied to the interior room. In one or more aspects, the housing may comprise a plurality of compartments wherein the compartments may house one or more of the components identified above, among others as disclosed herein. In some aspects, the compartments may be fully isolated from another, or at least partially isolated from another. In some aspects, the compartments may not contain a component, but may be configured for direct one or more air streams within the housing.

[0035] In an aspect of this disclosure, as shown in FIG. 1, an air circulatory system 100 may be used to exhaust stale air from an interior room of a dwelling, for example, but not limited to, a bathroom, closet, laundry room, or the like, and supply fresh, conditioned air that is of substantially similar air temperature and humidity to the exhausted air stream. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the supply of substantially similar air may mean that the temperature of the supply air is the same as, or within 5 degrees of the exhausted stream. In some aspects, the temperature of the supply air may be less than 5 degrees, less than 4 degrees, less than 3 degrees, less than 2 degrees, less than 1 degree, or less than 0.5 degrees of the temperature of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or of the temperature of the exhaust air stream prior to contacting the heat exchanger. The temperature differential may be understood to be both higher than, or lower than, the exhausted air stream temperature, such that when the supply air stream is within 5 degrees of the exhaust air stream, this includes being 5 degrees higher than the exhaust air stream, or 5 degrees lower than the exhaust air stream, providing a total temperature differential of 10 degrees for this particular example. Similarly, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the supply of substantially similar air may mean that the humidity of the supply air is the same as, or within 10% of the exhausted stream. In some aspects, the humidity of the supply air may be within less than 10%, less than 9%, less than 8%, less than 7%, less than 6%, less than 5%, less than 4%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or less than 0.5% of the humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or of the humidity of the exhaust air stream prior to contacting the heat exchanger. The humidity differential may be understood to be both higher than, or lower than, the exhausted air stream humidity, such that when the supply air stream is within 10% of the exhaust air stream, this includes being 10% higher than the exhaust air stream, or 10% lower than the exhaust air stream, providing a total humidity differential of 20% for this particular example.

[0036] In some aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may be used to heat or cool the air of the interior room of the dwelling by supplying conditioned air that has a temperature higher or lower than the stale air that is being exhausted out of the room. Thus, in some aspects, the supply air from the intake air stream may be conditioned so as to substantially maintain the same temperature and humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or the supply air from the intake air stream may be conditioned so as to alter the temperature and / or humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling.

[0037] The stale air may be removed from the interior room through an exhaust vent 132 located about a surface of an interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling. The exhaust vent 132 may have an integrated fan, blower, or the like for generating, or at least partially generating, the exhaust air stream 130, thereby extracting air from the interior of the room and directing said air stream to the system 100. The exhaust air stream 130 may be directed to the ERV unit 104 for transferring energy of the exhaust air stream to the intake air stream. When referring to the “energy” of an air stream, it may be understood that the term may include temperature and moisture, among other parameters disclosed within this specification or commonly known to those skilled in the art. The exhaust air stream 130 may contact, or be passed through, a heat exchanger 134 while the intake air stream 120 may contact, or be passed through, a different portion of the heat exchanger, thereby allowing the energy to be exchanged from the exhaust air stream to the intake air stream while the two streams are not mixed or coming into direct contact with each other. The heat exchanger 134 may be one known in the art of ERVs, including a heat exchanger core, rotating wheel, or the like. These types of heat exchangers are known in the art and not detailed herein, but are contemplated by the disclosure.

[0038] After the exhaust air stream 130 passes through the heat exchanger 134, the exhaust may be vented from the air circulatory system to the atmosphere, or it may be ducted to an exit vent 136 positioned about an exterior wall 150 which vents the stale interior air to the exterior of the building or dwelling. It will be understood that in some aspects, use of the phrase the “exterior wall” also includes a roof or other exterior structure separating the interior of the building structure with the exterior environment.

[0039] In an aspect of this disclosure, an intake vent 122 may be positioned about an exterior wall 150 which allows for the exterior fresh air to be passed into the air circulatory system 100 for supplying to the desired interior room. The exterior wall 150 may be the same wall as the exit event 136, or may be disposed at a different exterior wall than the exit vent. The intake air stream 120 passes through the intake vent 122 and is directed to the ERV unit 104 wherein the intake air stream passes through the ERV unit and is preconditioned as it contacts the heat exchanger 134.

[0040] In certain aspects of the disclosure, the intake air stream 120 exits the heat exchanger and is directed to a heating unit 108 and / or cooling unit 106. In some aspects, the heating unit 108 and / or cooling unit 106 may include an evaporator coil 160 through which the intake air stream 120 contacts for further conditioning. The conditioned intake air stream 120 may then be directed to a supply vent 124 wherein the intake air stream enters the interior room.

[0041] In an aspect as disclosed herein, the cooling unit 106 and heating unit 108 may be separate units, or they may be integrated units, or they may be partially integrated units utilizing some common component(s) while also including individual component(s). In one aspect, the heating / cooling unit is an integrated unit and includes a condenser unit 162 including a condenser 164 and compressor 166. A line set in communication with the evaporator 160, condenser 164, and compressor 166 may be charged with refrigerant for transferring heat through the heating / cooling system. In some aspects, the refrigerant lines may contain pre-pressurized refrigerant, such that the final system, when installed, does not require pressurization of the refrigerant lines.

[0042] In an aspect as disclosed herein, the cooling / heating unit 106, 108 may have a capacity in the range of 500 BTUs to 5000 BTUs. In some aspects, the capacity may be in the range of 1000 BTUs to 4000 BTUs. In certain aspects, the capacity may be in the range of 2000 BTUs to 3000 BTUs. In some aspects, the BTU capacity may be 500, 1000, 1,500, 2,000, 2,500, 3,000, 3,500, 4000, 4,500, and / or 5,000.

[0043] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the housing 102 may include one or more compartments including a first compartment having the energy recovery ventilator therein, and a second compartment having the air conditioning system therein, wherein the first compartment and second compartment are isolated. In some aspects, the compartments may be partially isolated.

[0044] In some aspects, one or more fans, blowers, or the like, may be used for moving air through the air circulatory system. As used herein, the term “fan” may be used to describe any type of unit for moving air from one location to another and is not limited strictly to bladed units, and may be static speed or variable speed units. In an aspect of this disclosure, a fan may be disposed about an interior structure of the interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling, which when operated, directs air from the interior room into the air circulatory system. In some aspects, the air may travel through the system via ducts and / or compartments, or it may be directed directly into certain portions of the system. One or more fans may be distributed throughout the air circulatory system as required to provide adequate movement of the air and maintain the appropriate air pressure for efficient and optimal operation. In aspects where ducting is utilized between components, one or more fans may be used to direct the air through the system. In an aspect, a fan may be disposed about the exterior structure at or near the exit vent for exhausting the exhaust air stream into the exterior environment.

[0045] In some aspects, a fan may be disposed about an interior structure of the interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling, which when operated, directs conditioned air from the air circulatory system into the interior room environment. The exhaust vent 132 and supply vent 124 may be located at a distance apart so as to allow for the conditioned air from the intake air stream to filter into the interior room without having a substantial portion undergoing uptake into the exhaust vent. It will be appreciated that the supply vent 134 and exhaust vent 132 should have sufficient distance so that an air stream loop is not created wherein a substantial portion of the conditioned air is pulled back into the air circulatory system in a short amount of time without replacing a substantial portion of the stale interior air. One of skill in the art will appreciate the required distance and positioning of the supply and exhaust vents based on the size and geometry of the interior room.

[0046] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in various modes, wherein one or more components are operated or not operated. Such selections may be done by the system controller, as disclosed herein, or by selection from the user via a user interface.

[0047] In one or more aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in an ERV-only mode in which the exhaust air stream and intake air stream contact or pass through the ERV, but additional cooling or heating by the heating / cooling units is not conducted. During this mode, the exhaust air stream is pulled from the interior room of the dwelling, interacting with the ERV, and exhausted to the exterior environment, while the intake air stream is pulled from the exterior environment, directed to the ERV to be pre-conditioned, and the supplied into the interior room of the dwelling. The heating and air conditioning system remain inactive during this mode of operation.

[0048] In one or more aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in a mode wherein each air stream can operate independently of the other. The system 100 may operate in a “fresh supply only” mode wherein the fresh air supply is directed through the system and into the interior room of the dwelling without the exhaust air supply operating. Likewise, the system 100 may operate in an “exhaust supply only” mode wherein the exhaust air supply is directed through the system and exhausted out of the interior room without the fresh air supply operating. In yet another aspect, the system 100 may operate such that both air supplies are operated together. It is also contemplated that there may be one or more modes in which the air supplies are operated during an overlapping interval such that both air supplies are operated together, and one air supply is operational, before, after, or both, the other air supply begins or stops operations.

[0049] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may operate with the heating and / or air conditioning system only, in which the intake air stream interacts with the heating and / or air conditioning system to be conditioned and then supplied to the interior room of the dwelling. The intake air stream may interact with the ERV, though no energy is transferred as the exhaust air steam is inactive. In another aspect, the intake air stream may be diverted around the ERV system and directed to the heating and / or air conditioning system, thereby bypassing the ERV.

[0050] For each of the foregoing modes of operation, one or more diverter devices may be utilized at one or more positions in the system to direct the airflow according to the mode of operation. It will be understood that a diverter device is any device capable of diverting, blocking, or allowing airflow through the system, such as, for example, a door, panel, damper, or the like, which may be moveably positioned to one or more positions to affect the air flow path.

[0051] In one or more aspects of the disclosure, one or more filters may be positioned within an air stream path to filter out contaminants, air borne particles, and / or pollutants from the air.

[0052] In one or more aspects disclosed herein, a single controller or discrete controllers that are in communication with one or more of the components of the air circulatory system. The controller may, for example, send and receive signals to various parts of the system as necessary to carry out the system's operations. The controller may receive signals indicative of parameters such as power, temperature, humidity, air flow, pressure, duration, and the like. The controller may include or may be associated with a processor, a readable computer medium, and data storage. It may be understood that the controller disclosed herein may be a single controller having some or all of the described functionality, or it may include multiple controllers wherein some or all of the described functionality is distributed among the multiple controllers.

[0053] In one or more aspects, a user interface may be implemented to allow for control of the air circulatory system by a user. The user interface may be a wall mounted unit that is wired and / or wireless connected to the system. Other user interfaces are also contemplated such as a wireless tablet, phone, or other electronic device which wireless connects with the system. In one or more aspects, the user interface communicates, at least in part, with the controller. The user interface may include a display for the purpose of displaying to the user one or more options, states, parameters, and / or other information of the system, or components of the system. The user may select, operate, and / or adjust a variety of settings of the system, including modes of operation, air flow rates, temperature, humidity, and other parameters. The user interface may include operable buttons for interfacing with the unit, or may include one or more screens with touch sensitivity for operation.

[0054] In one or more aspects, a sensor or plurality of sensors may be utilized to sense one or more parameters of the system. For example, one or more sensors may be utilized to sense the interior room temperature, humidity, and / or pressure. Similarly, one or more sensors may be used to sense the temperature, humidity, and / or pressure of the intake air at one or more points along the path from intake to supply. Other sensors may also be utilized for sensing one or more parameters as is known in the art.

[0055] In one or more aspects, disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may be configured to be mounted to a secure structure within the interior of the dwelling. For example, in one aspect, the system 100 may be mounted to a structure in an attic space, wherein the system is mounted to a wall, ceiling, floor, or to a mount that indirectly, or directly, attaches the system to said structure. In some aspects, the system may be configured to protrude through a wall so that a first portion is located in a first enclosed space, and a second portion is located in a second enclosed space. In another aspect, the system 100 may be mounted to a structure in a garage or basement space, wherein the system is mounted to a wall, ceiling, floor, or to a mount that indirectly, or directly, attaches the system to said structure.

[0056] As described herein, the mounting and installation of the air circulatory system 100 may include the following. The housing 102 including various components within the housing may be securely mounted on a stable support structure in an interior space such as an attic, basement, garage, or other interior room. It may be preferable to have the housing mounted in an interior space that has an wall, ceiling, or other surface that is adjacent the exterior environment to allow for venting and intake of air streams from said exterior environment. This mounting position may also reduce the need for extra ducting to carry the air stream(s) from the system to the venting and / or intake sites. In some aspects, if a stable support structure is not available, a mounting bracket may be supplied with the system for mounting the system to the bracket and attaching the bracket to one or more supports available in the interior space. The system may be connected to a standard 110V power supply along with any controller(s) and user interfaces. The exhaust vent of the interior room may be connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the exhaust vent. The exit vent may be positioned about an exterior structure so as to allow the exhaust air stream to be vented from the system to the exterior environment, and one or more ducts may be connected between the housing and the exit vent to direct the flow of the exhaust air stream to the exit vent, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the exit vent. The fresh air intake vent is positioned about an exterior structure so as to draw fresh air from the exterior environment. The intake vent is connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the intake vent. The supply vent of the interior room may be connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing depending on placement of the housing relative to the supply vent. The system may be powered on to ensure the ventilation, ERV, and heating / cooling components are operating within acceptable parameters. The system may be calibrated via the controller to achieve optimal performance based on one or more sensors. Verification may be necessary to determine that the heating and / or cooling units are producing consistent desired temperature and humidity air supplies and that all duct work, if applicable, is substantially leak free and secure.

[0057] Thus, although there have been described particular aspects of the present disclosure of a new and useful AIR CIRCULATORY SYSTEM WITH ERV, HEATER, AND AIR CONDITION SYSTEM, it is not intended that such references be construed as limitations upon the scope of this disclosure except as set forth in the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0029]The present disclosure describes or illustrates one or more embodiments that incorporate features of the claimed invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplifies the claimed invention. The scope of the claimed invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s).

[0030]References in the specification to “one embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0031]The term “a...

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of the following patent application: U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 63 / 565,594 filed on Mar. 15, 2024.

[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.BACKGROUND

[0003] The present invention relates generally to compact air circulatory and conditioning systems for fresh air exchange of small, interior spaces.

[0004] Interior rooms of a residential home can require fresh air to be circulated for removing contaminants, unpleasant odors, and otherwise stale air. Systems such as Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) may be implemented in residential and / or commercial spaces to exchange fresh exterior air with stale interior air. The interior air, or stale air, is exhausted from the interior a home, for example, while fresh, exterior air is vented into the interior thereby exchanging stale air for fresh air. Part of the ERV system includes a core which allows for the temperature and moisture differential between the exhaust air and the intake air to pre-condition the intake air prior to being supplied into the interior of a home. While this allows for some pre-conditioning of the air to occur, the ERV system is generally not able to fully condition the intake air to match the exhaust air. Thus, the central HVAC system is still required to fully condition the newly supplied air.

[0005] Small interior rooms of a residential home or commercial building may not be accessed by the central HVAC system such that the air in these rooms is more likely to become stale due to the lack of air exchange. In particular, bathrooms, laundry rooms, closets, and the like, can be more susceptible to poor air exchange than other interior rooms that are connected to the central HVAC system, or a specific HVAC unit dedicated to the room, like a mini-split HVAC system.

[0006] What is needed, then, is a compact air circulatory and conditioning system that combines an energy recovery system and heating / cooling system to minimize energy loss and match supply air to indoor air temperature and humidity.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system including: a housing having an exterior and an interior, the interior including a plurality of compartments, wherein the interior includes: an energy recovery ventilator configured to transfer heat and moisture from a first air stream to a second air stream; and an air conditioning system including a condenser, compressor, and evaporator, wherein the air conditioning system includes a plurality of refrigerant lines containing pre-pressurized refrigerant, and wherein the air conditioning system has a capacity from 1000 to 4000 BTUs.

[0008] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air conditioning system having a capacity of about 3000 BTUs.

[0009] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a housing having a plurality of compartments includes a first compartment having the energy recovery ventilator therein, and a second compartment having the air conditioning system therein, wherein the first compartment and second compartment are isolated.

[0010] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system having at least one exhaust fan located external to the housing and configured to generate at least one exhaust air stream directed toward the housing.

[0011] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more ducts having a first end being connected to the at least one exhaust fan and a second end being connected to the housing, and configured to direct the exhaust air stream from the at least one exhaust fan to the housing.

[0012] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including an exit vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for venting the exhaust air stream to the outdoor environment, and wherein one or more ducts are connected between the housing and exit vent configured to direct the exhaust air stream to the exit vent.

[0013] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including at least one intake fan located internal to the housing and configured to generate at least one intake air stream.

[0014] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more ducts connected on a first end to the housing and a second end connected to an intake vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for intake of air from the outdoor environment.

[0015] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the first air stream or the second air stream, but not both, is an intake air stream, the intake air stream directed through the energy recovery ventilator such that heat and moisture transfer to the intake air stream, and wherein the intake air stream contacts the evaporator and then is supplied through a supply vent into the interior room of the dwelling.

[0016] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the first compartment contains sub-compartments for isolating the first air stream from the second air stream.

[0017] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to an air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system including: a central unit having a plurality of components including an energy recovery ventilator, an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and wherein the central unit has a controller communicatively associated with one or more of the plurality of components; wherein the controller is configured to operate the air circulatory system in a plurality of modes of operation wherein the controller selectively operates one or more of the components.

[0018] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the mode of operation is selected by a user.

[0019] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the mode of operation is determined by the controller based on one or more inputs to the controller.

[0020] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein the one or more inputs to the controller include at least one of temperature or humidity, or both, and wherein the temperature or humidity may be sensed from the interior room of the dwelling, or from the outdoor environment outside of the dwelling, or both.

[0021] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator to the exclusion of the evaporator, condenser, and compressor.

[0022] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the evaporator, condenser, and compressor to the exclusion of the energy recovery ventilator.

[0023] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator, the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor.

[0024] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator for a first length of time, and operating the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor for a second length of time, wherein the first length of time and the second length of time overlap.

[0025] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including one or more sensors for sensing a parameter which may be provided to the controller, wherein the one or more sensors may sense at least one of temperature or humidity, or both.

[0026] In some aspects, the systems described herein relate to a system, further including a user interface that is communicatively linked to the controller, wherein a user may provides inputs to the user interface for selecting one or more modes of operation of the plurality of modes of operation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one aspect of the disclosure demonstrating an air circulatory system and one or more components included therein in a dwelling.

[0028] FIG. 2 is an illustration of one aspect of the disclosure demonstrating a central unit housing one or more components of the air circulatory system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present disclosure describes or illustrates one or more embodiments that incorporate features of the claimed invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplifies the claimed invention. The scope of the claimed invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s).

[0030] References in the specification to “one embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0031] The term “air conditioning” as used herein, may be understood to mean altering one or more characteristics of air such as, but not limited to, temperature and humidity, and further including removal of particles, biological material, bacteria, viruses, etc. for the comfort of occupants inside a dwelling.

[0032] The term “energy recovery ventilator” or “ERV” as used herein, may be understood to mean a unit containing an air-to-air exchanger capable of transferring a temperature differential (heating a cooler air stream, or cooling a hotter air stream) and / or moisture differential (increase / decrease moisture content) from one air stream to another air stream. It will also be understood that an ERV, as used herein, may also encompass a “heat recovery ventilator” (“HRV”) which is capable of only transferring a temperature differential (and not moisture differential) from one air stream to another.

[0033] The air circulatory system 100 provides substantial benefits over the prior art, including enhanced indoor air quality through fresh air exchange, improved energy efficiency with heat and / or moisture recovery capabilities, year-round thermal comfort for the occupants with the integrated heating and cooling capacity, reduced reliance on separate heating and cooling systems which may result in reduced cost and maintenance, adaptability of the compact system in a variety of dwelling types, and the ability to be implemented in a new-build housing structure, or retrofitted into an existing housing structure. The proposed integration of an exhaust fan system, an ERV, and a heating and air conditioning system represents a significant advancement in small interior room ventilation technology. By increasing energy efficiency, comfort, and air quality, the aspects of this disclosure addresses the needs of residential an commercial spaces.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an air circulatory system 100 is illustrated having an outer housing 102 for at least partially enclosing an energy recovery ventilator 104 (ERV), cooling unit 106, and heating unit 108, all integrated into a unit that is configured to be installed inside a dwelling or other occupied structure. In accordance with aspects, as disclosed herein, an intake air stream 120 may enter the system 100 via one or more ducts 114, be passed through the ERV wherein the intake air stream is pre-conditioned based on at least the temperature differential to the exhaust air stream 130, and if included, the moisture differential to the exhaust air stream. The intake air stream may be further conditioned by the heating / cooling units 106, 108 as necessary, to condition the air prior to being supplied to the interior room. In one or more aspects, the housing may comprise a plurality of compartments wherein the compartments may house one or more of the components identified above, among others as disclosed herein. In some aspects, the compartments may be fully isolated from another, or at least partially isolated from another. In some aspects, the compartments may not contain a component, but may be configured for direct one or more air streams within the housing.

[0035] In an aspect of this disclosure, as shown in FIG. 1, an air circulatory system 100 may be used to exhaust stale air from an interior room of a dwelling, for example, but not limited to, a bathroom, closet, laundry room, or the like, and supply fresh, conditioned air that is of substantially similar air temperature and humidity to the exhausted air stream. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the supply of substantially similar air may mean that the temperature of the supply air is the same as, or within 5 degrees of the exhausted stream. In some aspects, the temperature of the supply air may be less than 5 degrees, less than 4 degrees, less than 3 degrees, less than 2 degrees, less than 1 degree, or less than 0.5 degrees of the temperature of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or of the temperature of the exhaust air stream prior to contacting the heat exchanger. The temperature differential may be understood to be both higher than, or lower than, the exhausted air stream temperature, such that when the supply air stream is within 5 degrees of the exhaust air stream, this includes being 5 degrees higher than the exhaust air stream, or 5 degrees lower than the exhaust air stream, providing a total temperature differential of 10 degrees for this particular example. Similarly, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the supply of substantially similar air may mean that the humidity of the supply air is the same as, or within 10% of the exhausted stream. In some aspects, the humidity of the supply air may be within less than 10%, less than 9%, less than 8%, less than 7%, less than 6%, less than 5%, less than 4%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or less than 0.5% of the humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or of the humidity of the exhaust air stream prior to contacting the heat exchanger. The humidity differential may be understood to be both higher than, or lower than, the exhausted air stream humidity, such that when the supply air stream is within 10% of the exhaust air stream, this includes being 10% higher than the exhaust air stream, or 10% lower than the exhaust air stream, providing a total humidity differential of 20% for this particular example.

[0036] In some aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may be used to heat or cool the air of the interior room of the dwelling by supplying conditioned air that has a temperature higher or lower than the stale air that is being exhausted out of the room. Thus, in some aspects, the supply air from the intake air stream may be conditioned so as to substantially maintain the same temperature and humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling, and / or the supply air from the intake air stream may be conditioned so as to alter the temperature and / or humidity of the air within the interior room of the dwelling.

[0037] The stale air may be removed from the interior room through an exhaust vent 132 located about a surface of an interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling. The exhaust vent 132 may have an integrated fan, blower, or the like for generating, or at least partially generating, the exhaust air stream 130, thereby extracting air from the interior of the room and directing said air stream to the system 100. The exhaust air stream 130 may be directed to the ERV unit 104 for transferring energy of the exhaust air stream to the intake air stream. When referring to the “energy” of an air stream, it may be understood that the term may include temperature and moisture, among other parameters disclosed within this specification or commonly known to those skilled in the art. The exhaust air stream 130 may contact, or be passed through, a heat exchanger 134 while the intake air stream 120 may contact, or be passed through, a different portion of the heat exchanger, thereby allowing the energy to be exchanged from the exhaust air stream to the intake air stream while the two streams are not mixed or coming into direct contact with each other. The heat exchanger 134 may be one known in the art of ERVs, including a heat exchanger core, rotating wheel, or the like. These types of heat exchangers are known in the art and not detailed herein, but are contemplated by the disclosure.

[0038] After the exhaust air stream 130 passes through the heat exchanger 134, the exhaust may be vented from the air circulatory system to the atmosphere, or it may be ducted to an exit vent 136 positioned about an exterior wall 150 which vents the stale interior air to the exterior of the building or dwelling. It will be understood that in some aspects, use of the phrase the “exterior wall” also includes a roof or other exterior structure separating the interior of the building structure with the exterior environment.

[0039] In an aspect of this disclosure, an intake vent 122 may be positioned about an exterior wall 150 which allows for the exterior fresh air to be passed into the air circulatory system 100 for supplying to the desired interior room. The exterior wall 150 may be the same wall as the exit event 136, or may be disposed at a different exterior wall than the exit vent. The intake air stream 120 passes through the intake vent 122 and is directed to the ERV unit 104 wherein the intake air stream passes through the ERV unit and is preconditioned as it contacts the heat exchanger 134.

[0040] In certain aspects of the disclosure, the intake air stream 120 exits the heat exchanger and is directed to a heating unit 108 and / or cooling unit 106. In some aspects, the heating unit 108 and / or cooling unit 106 may include an evaporator coil 160 through which the intake air stream 120 contacts for further conditioning. The conditioned intake air stream 120 may then be directed to a supply vent 124 wherein the intake air stream enters the interior room.

[0041] In an aspect as disclosed herein, the cooling unit 106 and heating unit 108 may be separate units, or they may be integrated units, or they may be partially integrated units utilizing some common component(s) while also including individual component(s). In one aspect, the heating / cooling unit is an integrated unit and includes a condenser unit 162 including a condenser 164 and compressor 166. A line set in communication with the evaporator 160, condenser 164, and compressor 166 may be charged with refrigerant for transferring heat through the heating / cooling system. In some aspects, the refrigerant lines may contain pre-pressurized refrigerant, such that the final system, when installed, does not require pressurization of the refrigerant lines.

[0042] In an aspect as disclosed herein, the cooling / heating unit 106, 108 may have a capacity in the range of 500 BTUs to 5000 BTUs. In some aspects, the capacity may be in the range of 1000 BTUs to 4000 BTUs. In certain aspects, the capacity may be in the range of 2000 BTUs to 3000 BTUs. In some aspects, the BTU capacity may be 500, 1000, 1,500, 2,000, 2,500, 3,000, 3,500, 4000, 4,500, and / or 5,000.

[0043] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the housing 102 may include one or more compartments including a first compartment having the energy recovery ventilator therein, and a second compartment having the air conditioning system therein, wherein the first compartment and second compartment are isolated. In some aspects, the compartments may be partially isolated.

[0044] In some aspects, one or more fans, blowers, or the like, may be used for moving air through the air circulatory system. As used herein, the term “fan” may be used to describe any type of unit for moving air from one location to another and is not limited strictly to bladed units, and may be static speed or variable speed units. In an aspect of this disclosure, a fan may be disposed about an interior structure of the interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling, which when operated, directs air from the interior room into the air circulatory system. In some aspects, the air may travel through the system via ducts and / or compartments, or it may be directed directly into certain portions of the system. One or more fans may be distributed throughout the air circulatory system as required to provide adequate movement of the air and maintain the appropriate air pressure for efficient and optimal operation. In aspects where ducting is utilized between components, one or more fans may be used to direct the air through the system. In an aspect, a fan may be disposed about the exterior structure at or near the exit vent for exhausting the exhaust air stream into the exterior environment.

[0045] In some aspects, a fan may be disposed about an interior structure of the interior room, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling, which when operated, directs conditioned air from the air circulatory system into the interior room environment. The exhaust vent 132 and supply vent 124 may be located at a distance apart so as to allow for the conditioned air from the intake air stream to filter into the interior room without having a substantial portion undergoing uptake into the exhaust vent. It will be appreciated that the supply vent 134 and exhaust vent 132 should have sufficient distance so that an air stream loop is not created wherein a substantial portion of the conditioned air is pulled back into the air circulatory system in a short amount of time without replacing a substantial portion of the stale interior air. One of skill in the art will appreciate the required distance and positioning of the supply and exhaust vents based on the size and geometry of the interior room.

[0046] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in various modes, wherein one or more components are operated or not operated. Such selections may be done by the system controller, as disclosed herein, or by selection from the user via a user interface.

[0047] In one or more aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in an ERV-only mode in which the exhaust air stream and intake air stream contact or pass through the ERV, but additional cooling or heating by the heating / cooling units is not conducted. During this mode, the exhaust air stream is pulled from the interior room of the dwelling, interacting with the ERV, and exhausted to the exterior environment, while the intake air stream is pulled from the exterior environment, directed to the ERV to be pre-conditioned, and the supplied into the interior room of the dwelling. The heating and air conditioning system remain inactive during this mode of operation.

[0048] In one or more aspects, the air circulatory system 100 may operate in a mode wherein each air stream can operate independently of the other. The system 100 may operate in a “fresh supply only” mode wherein the fresh air supply is directed through the system and into the interior room of the dwelling without the exhaust air supply operating. Likewise, the system 100 may operate in an “exhaust supply only” mode wherein the exhaust air supply is directed through the system and exhausted out of the interior room without the fresh air supply operating. In yet another aspect, the system 100 may operate such that both air supplies are operated together. It is also contemplated that there may be one or more modes in which the air supplies are operated during an overlapping interval such that both air supplies are operated together, and one air supply is operational, before, after, or both, the other air supply begins or stops operations.

[0049] In one or more aspects, as disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may operate with the heating and / or air conditioning system only, in which the intake air stream interacts with the heating and / or air conditioning system to be conditioned and then supplied to the interior room of the dwelling. The intake air stream may interact with the ERV, though no energy is transferred as the exhaust air steam is inactive. In another aspect, the intake air stream may be diverted around the ERV system and directed to the heating and / or air conditioning system, thereby bypassing the ERV.

[0050] For each of the foregoing modes of operation, one or more diverter devices may be utilized at one or more positions in the system to direct the airflow according to the mode of operation. It will be understood that a diverter device is any device capable of diverting, blocking, or allowing airflow through the system, such as, for example, a door, panel, damper, or the like, which may be moveably positioned to one or more positions to affect the air flow path.

[0051] In one or more aspects of the disclosure, one or more filters may be positioned within an air stream path to filter out contaminants, air borne particles, and / or pollutants from the air.

[0052] In one or more aspects disclosed herein, a single controller or discrete controllers that are in communication with one or more of the components of the air circulatory system. The controller may, for example, send and receive signals to various parts of the system as necessary to carry out the system's operations. The controller may receive signals indicative of parameters such as power, temperature, humidity, air flow, pressure, duration, and the like. The controller may include or may be associated with a processor, a readable computer medium, and data storage. It may be understood that the controller disclosed herein may be a single controller having some or all of the described functionality, or it may include multiple controllers wherein some or all of the described functionality is distributed among the multiple controllers.

[0053] In one or more aspects, a user interface may be implemented to allow for control of the air circulatory system by a user. The user interface may be a wall mounted unit that is wired and / or wireless connected to the system. Other user interfaces are also contemplated such as a wireless tablet, phone, or other electronic device which wireless connects with the system. In one or more aspects, the user interface communicates, at least in part, with the controller. The user interface may include a display for the purpose of displaying to the user one or more options, states, parameters, and / or other information of the system, or components of the system. The user may select, operate, and / or adjust a variety of settings of the system, including modes of operation, air flow rates, temperature, humidity, and other parameters. The user interface may include operable buttons for interfacing with the unit, or may include one or more screens with touch sensitivity for operation.

[0054] In one or more aspects, a sensor or plurality of sensors may be utilized to sense one or more parameters of the system. For example, one or more sensors may be utilized to sense the interior room temperature, humidity, and / or pressure. Similarly, one or more sensors may be used to sense the temperature, humidity, and / or pressure of the intake air at one or more points along the path from intake to supply. Other sensors may also be utilized for sensing one or more parameters as is known in the art.

[0055] In one or more aspects, disclosed herein, the air circulatory system 100 may be configured to be mounted to a secure structure within the interior of the dwelling. For example, in one aspect, the system 100 may be mounted to a structure in an attic space, wherein the system is mounted to a wall, ceiling, floor, or to a mount that indirectly, or directly, attaches the system to said structure. In some aspects, the system may be configured to protrude through a wall so that a first portion is located in a first enclosed space, and a second portion is located in a second enclosed space. In another aspect, the system 100 may be mounted to a structure in a garage or basement space, wherein the system is mounted to a wall, ceiling, floor, or to a mount that indirectly, or directly, attaches the system to said structure.

[0056] As described herein, the mounting and installation of the air circulatory system 100 may include the following. The housing 102 including various components within the housing may be securely mounted on a stable support structure in an interior space such as an attic, basement, garage, or other interior room. It may be preferable to have the housing mounted in an interior space that has an wall, ceiling, or other surface that is adjacent the exterior environment to allow for venting and intake of air streams from said exterior environment. This mounting position may also reduce the need for extra ducting to carry the air stream(s) from the system to the venting and / or intake sites. In some aspects, if a stable support structure is not available, a mounting bracket may be supplied with the system for mounting the system to the bracket and attaching the bracket to one or more supports available in the interior space. The system may be connected to a standard 110V power supply along with any controller(s) and user interfaces. The exhaust vent of the interior room may be connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the exhaust vent. The exit vent may be positioned about an exterior structure so as to allow the exhaust air stream to be vented from the system to the exterior environment, and one or more ducts may be connected between the housing and the exit vent to direct the flow of the exhaust air stream to the exit vent, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the exit vent. The fresh air intake vent is positioned about an exterior structure so as to draw fresh air from the exterior environment. The intake vent is connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing dependent on placement of the housing relative to the intake vent. The supply vent of the interior room may be connected to the housing via one or more ducts, or directly to the housing depending on placement of the housing relative to the supply vent. The system may be powered on to ensure the ventilation, ERV, and heating / cooling components are operating within acceptable parameters. The system may be calibrated via the controller to achieve optimal performance based on one or more sensors. Verification may be necessary to determine that the heating and / or cooling units are producing consistent desired temperature and humidity air supplies and that all duct work, if applicable, is substantially leak free and secure.

[0057] Thus, although there have been described particular aspects of the present disclosure of a new and useful AIR CIRCULATORY SYSTEM WITH ERV, HEATER, AND AIR CONDITION SYSTEM, it is not intended that such references be construed as limitations upon the scope of this disclosure except as set forth in the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0029]The present disclosure describes or illustrates one or more embodiments that incorporate features of the claimed invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplifies the claimed invention. The scope of the claimed invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s).

[0030]References in the specification to “one embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0031]The term “a...

Claims

1. An air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system comprising:a housing having an exterior and an interior, the interior comprising a plurality of compartments, wherein the interior comprises:an energy recovery ventilator configured to transfer heat and moisture from a first air stream to a second air stream; andan air conditioning system comprising a condenser, compressor, and evaporator, wherein the air conditioning system includes a plurality of refrigerant lines containing pre-pressurized refrigerant, and wherein the air conditioning system has a capacity from 1000 to 4000 BTUs.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the air conditioning system has a capacity of about 3000 BTUs.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of compartments includes a first compartment having the energy recovery ventilator therein, and a second compartment having the air conditioning system therein, wherein the first compartment and second compartment are isolated.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one exhaust fan located external to the housing and configured to generate at least one exhaust air stream directed toward the housing.

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising one or more ducts having a first end being connected to the at least one exhaust fan and a second end being connected to the housing, and configured to direct the exhaust air stream from the at least one exhaust fan to the housing.

6. The system of claim 5, further comprising an exit vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for venting the exhaust air stream to the outdoor environment, and wherein one or more ducts are connected between the housing and the exit vent configured to direct the exhaust air stream to the exit vent.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one intake fan located internal to the housing and configured to generate at least one intake air stream.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising one or more ducts connected on a first end to the housing and a second end connected to an intake vent disposed about an exterior wall adjacent to an outdoor environment for intake of air from the outdoor environment.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the first air stream or the second air stream, but not both, is an intake air stream, the intake air stream directed through the energy recovery ventilator such that heat and moisture transfer to the intake air stream, and wherein the intake air stream contacts the evaporator and then is supplied through a supply vent into the interior room of the dwelling.

10. The system of claim 3, wherein the first compartment contains sub-compartments for isolating the first air stream from the second air stream.

11. An air circulatory system for supplying conditioned air to an interior room of a dwelling, the system comprising:a central unit having a plurality of components comprising an energy recovery ventilator, an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and wherein the central unit has a controller communicatively associated with one or more of the plurality of components;wherein the controller is configured to operate the air circulatory system in a plurality of modes of operation wherein the controller selectively operates one or more of the components.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the mode of operation is selected by a user.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the mode of operation is determined by the controller based on one or more inputs to the controller.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the one or more inputs to the controller include at least one of temperature or humidity, or both, and wherein the temperature or humidity may be sensed from the interior room of the dwelling, or from an outdoor environment outside of the dwelling, or both.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator to the exclusion of the evaporator, condenser, and compressor.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the evaporator, condenser, and compressor to the exclusion of the energy recovery ventilator.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator, the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein one mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation includes operating the energy recovery ventilator for a first length of time, and operating the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor for a second length of time, wherein the first length of time and the second length of time overlap.

19. The system of claim 11, further comprising one or more sensors for sensing a parameter which may be provided to the controller, wherein the one or more sensors may sense at least one of temperature or humidity, or both.

20. The system of claim 11, further comprising a user interface that is communicatively linked to the controller, wherein a user may provides inputs to the user interface for selecting one or more modes of operation of the plurality of modes of operation.

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