Radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof

Abstract

A radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users includes radiant panel assembly, fluid tank assembly, pump, dehumidifier unit, and user interface. The fluid tank assembly manages and circulates fluid within fluid tank coupled to at least one thermoelectric module, and fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. Pump circulates fluid through at least one capillary tube arranged on radiating panel assembly. The dehumidifier unit reduces and controls humidity levels, and comprises at least one thermoelectric module at least one cooling fan to draw the air from the surrounding and pass it over a cooler side of the thermoelectric module. User interface enables at least one user to adjust temperature readings of ambient environment to provide personalized cooling effect.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is the national phase entry of International Application No. PCT / IB2024 / 050074, filed on Jan. 4, 2024, which is based upon and claims priority to Indian Patent Application number 202341000652, filed on Jan. 4, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of cooling systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users. The radiant cooling system is modular, portable and easily reconfigurable, and which has reduced energy requirements and environmental footprint.BACKGROUND

[0003] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section be used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0004] Climate change due to human activity has led to increased demand for cooling systems to cool buildings and homes in order to combat rising temperatures. Conventional air conditioning systems are inefficient, leave a greater environmental footprint, and add to the worsening climate change situation. For instance, conventional air conditioning system use chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the refrigerant. CFC based cooling systems have been notorious for being environment unfriendly due to their role in the depletion of the ozone layer, and their significant energy requirements that contribute to climate change. This creates a vicious cycle where the increased heat leads to more demand for cooling devices, which then generate more heat and further contribute to “urban heat island effect”. Moreover, it is estimated that the cooling need is bound to further increase in the future, thereby adding to the already worsening problem of global warming.

[0005] Conventional air conditioning systems also suffer from the drawback of asymmetric cooling of rooms and do not cater to the needs of all occupants / users therein. For instance, the occupants near centralized air conditioning diffuser perceive an overcooled environment, while occupants away from the said air conditioning diffuser perceive a warm environment. Often, the room is over-cooled to compensate for discomfort of occupants away from the air conditioning diffuser. In case of split air-conditioned environment, the risk of cooling asymmetry is higher as the body parts exposed to the diffuser of the air conditioner is over cooled in comparison to other parts of the body.

[0006] Some proposed sustainable cooling solutions include radiant cooling systems. However, existing radiant cooling solutions are effective in regulating the indoor sensible load and fail to regulate the latent load. Without regulating the latent load, risk of condensation of radiant cooling system increases, thereby directly affecting the operating conditions of said cooling systems. Existing solutions either use separate systems or dehumidifying mechanisms to reduce latent load in the ambient environment. In general, condensation on radiant cooling system can be negated by maintaining the water temperature above the dew point temperature of the air. In larger applications, a separate system or an additional dehumidifying mechanism must be incorporated alongside radiant cooling system to control the latent load. Such separate systems or dehumidifying mechanisms used alongside existing radiant cooling system to control latent load will require water / air to be chilled at much lower temperatures, which will substantially increase the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0007] Additionally, radiant cooling solutions involve the inflexible installations on the walls, floor or ceiling of the room that are very difficult to reconfigure. Furthermore, although such solutions are energy efficient when compared to conventional solutions, they are still not preferred due to their high installation costs.

[0008] With changing work culture, there is also an increase in demand for agile organizational structure that require easily reconfigurable workspace based on the demand and requirement. The cooling demand varies with varying workspace requirements. However, conventional cooling solutions are not conducive for an agile organizational workspace as they lack modularity and reconfigurability. Additionally, conventional cooling solutions neither cater the individual cooling demand nor allow individual control of the cooling system. Personal air coolers made of wood, cellulose or plastic have been proposed to address the need for personal cooling. However, such solutions are not widely accepted due to the risk of humidification and mould formation among others.

[0009] There is, therefore, a requirement in the art for a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which addresses at least the above mentioned problems in the art.SUMMARY

[0010] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.

[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof.

[0012] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which is modular, reconfigurable, efficient, cost-effective, easy to use and easy to implement in present system.

[0013] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which includes one or more wheel attached to base of the system enabling movement of the radiant cooling system around and change the orientation or position and moved to another location.

[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which contribute to a reduction in overall energy consumption, leading to a smaller environmental footprint.

[0015] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which provides adjustments of the temperature of their ambient environment. Users can customize the cooling experience based on preferences. Adjustable settings allow for personalized temperature control, enhancing individual comfort.

[0016] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which is portable and operates quietly, minimizing noise disruptions in quiet environments.

[0017] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which provides a quick response to changes in temperature settings, offering rapid adjustments to meet the user's comfort requirements.

[0018] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof, which is sustainable as the load on existing air conditioners is reduced. Thereby, reducing load on energy grid. Integrating the radiant cooling system with renewable energy sources further enhances sustainability and reducing reliance on conventional energy.

[0019] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.

[0020] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of cooling systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users.

[0021] In an aspect, the present invention pertains to a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users. The radiant cooling system includes one or more modules and configured to enable heat exchange process between the radiant cooling system and at least one user. The one or more modules includes a fluid tank assembly, a fluid tank, a pump, one or more dehumidifier unit, and an user interface. The fluid tank assembly configured to manage and circulate a fluid, the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank coupled to at least one thermoelectric module, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. The at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) is coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein a fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) so that the fluid maintains the ambient environment at a desired temperature of the at least one user. The pump coupled to the fluid tank assembly, and configured to circulate the fluid through at least one capillary tube arranged on a radiant panel assembly. The one or more dehumidifier units configured to reduce and control humidity levels. The one or more dehumidifier units includes at least one thermoelectric module coupled to at least one cooling fan, and the at least one cooling fan configured to draw the air from the surrounding and pass it over a cooler side of the thermoelectric module. The air when in contact with cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units and the resulting dry air is thrown back into the surrounding environment through the exhaust. The user interface coupled to the radiant panel assembly, and enables at least one user to adjust one or more temperature readings of the ambient environment to provide personalized cooling effect within a pre-defined area to the at least one user. The user interface 126 includes but not limited to a touch screen, a remote, a control panel, and the like.

[0022] In an aspect, the predefined area of radiant cooling panel sufficient enough for a user to maintain thermal comfort, wherein the predefined area ranges between 0 to 10 metre square.

[0023] In an aspect, the radiant panel assembly of the predefined area includes of the at least one radiant capillary tube sandwiched between a conductive layer and an insulating layer. A cooled fluid is pumped from the fluid tank into the at least one radiant capillary tubes, that cools the first surface of the radiant panel assembly.

[0024] In an aspect, the at least one thermoelectric module configured to cool a fluid inside the fluid tank of the fluid tank assembly. The at least one thermoelectric module may be configured to produce thermal energy.

[0025] In an aspect, the at least one thermoelectric module is configured to cool the first side of the at least one thermoelectric module and heat the second side of the thermoelectric module based on electric current supply.

[0026] In an aspect, the system includes a cooling fan coupled to the second side of the at least one thermoelectric module, and configured to maintain an optimal temperature of the at least one thermoelectric module.

[0027] In an aspect, the fluid absorbs heat from the ambient environment, and the fluid is circulated back to the fluid tank to obtain a cooled fluid circulated through the at least one capillary tube.

[0028] In an aspect, the pump is configured to circulate a cooled fluid from the fluid tank through at least one capillary tube, and back to the fluid tank from said at least one capillary tube. The pump includes at least one of a Direct Current (DC) powered pump, an Alternating Current (AC) powered pump, and a hydraulic pump.

[0029] In an aspect, the one or more dehumidifier units is configured to withdraw air through an inlet into the one or more dehumidifier units and enable dehumidification the air by passing the air over the first side of the at least one thermoelectric module, and blowing the dehumidified air out of the one or more dehumidifier units through an exhaust.

[0030] In an aspect, the at least one user provides instructions to vary the one or more temperature readings by the user interface, a voltage supplied to the at least one thermoelectric module is suitably adjusted.

[0031] In an aspect, a method for providing personalized cooling effect to users by using a personal radiant cooling system. The method includes the step of enabling heat exchange process, by one or more modules of the personal radiant cooling system between the radiant cooling system and at least one user. The method includes the step of managing and circulating a fluid, by the personal radiant cooling system, where the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank coupled to at least one thermoelectric module, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. The at least one thermoelectric module coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein a fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) so that the fluid maintains the ambient environment at a desired temperature of the at least one user. The method includes the step of circulating, by the personal radiant cooling system, the fluid through at least one capillary tube arranged on a radiant panel assembly. The method includes the step of reducing and controlling humidity levels, by the personal radiant cooling system, where the one or more dehumidifier units includes at least one thermoelectric module at least one thermoelectric module (110-2) coupled to at least one cooling fan, and the at least one cooling fan configured to draw the air from the surrounding and pass it over a cooler side of the thermoelectric module (110-2), wherein the air when in contact with cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units (116) and the resulting dry air is thrown back into the surrounding environment through the exhaust (118). The method includes the step of enabling, by the personal radiant cooling system, at least one user for adjusting one or more temperature readings of an ambient environment for providing personalized cooling effect to the at least one user.

[0032] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that invention of such drawings includes the invention of mechanical components or arrangement of units commonly used to implement such components.

[0034] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary architecture representing components of a radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary architecture representing side view of a radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary architecture representation of a bottom view of a radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for method for providing personalized cooling effect to users by using a personal radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address all of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein.

[0041] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth.

[0042] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure.

[0043] The word “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,”“has,”“contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “including” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0044] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or “an instance” or “one instance” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes” and / or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of 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. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of cooling systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users.

[0047] In an aspect, the present invention pertains to a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users. The radiant cooling system includes one or more modules configured to enable heat exchange process between the radiant cooling system and at least one user. The one or more modules includes a fluid tank assembly, a fluid tank, a pump, one or more dehumidifier units, and an user interface. The fluid tank assembly configured to manage and circulate a fluid, the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank coupled to at least one thermoelectric module, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. The at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) is coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein a fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) so that the fluid maintains the ambient environment at a desired temperature of the at least one user. The pump coupled to the fluid tank assembly, and configured to circulate the fluid through at least one capillary tube arranged on a radiant panel assembly. The one or more dehumidifier units configured to reduce and control humidity levels. The one or more dehumidifier units includes at least one thermoelectric module coupled to at least one cooling fan, and the at least one cooling fan configured to draw the air from the surrounding and pass it over a cooler side of the thermoelectric module. The air when in contact with cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units and the resulting dry air is thrown back into the surrounding environment through the exhaust. The user interface coupled to the radiant panel assembly, and enables at least one user to adjust one or more temperature readings of the ambient environment to provide personalized cooling effect within a pre-defined area to the at least one user.

[0048] In an aspect, the at least one thermoelectric module configured to cool a fluid inside the fluid tank of the fluid tank assembly. The at least one thermoelectric module may be configured to produce thermal energy. In an aspect, the predefined area of radiant cooling panel sufficient enough for a user to maintain thermal comfort, wherein the predefined area ranges between 0-10 metre square.

[0049] In an aspect, the radiant panel assembly of the predefined area includes of the at least one radiant capillary tube sandwiched between a conductive layer and an insulating layer. A cooled fluid is pumped from the fluid tank into the at least one radiant capillary tubes, that cools the first surface of the radiant panel assembly.

[0050] In an aspect, the at least one thermoelectric module is configured to cool the first side of the at least one thermoelectric module and heat the second side of the thermoelectric module based on electric current supply.

[0051] In an aspect, the system includes a cooling fan coupled to the second side of the at least one thermoelectric module, and configured to maintain an optimal temperature of the at least one thermoelectric module.

[0052] In an aspect, the fluid absorbs heat from the ambient environment, and the fluid is circulated back to the fluid tank to obtain a cooled fluid circulated through the at least one capillary tube.

[0053] In an aspect, the pump is configured to circulate a cooled fluid from the fluid tank through at least one capillary tube, and back to the fluid tank from said at least one capillary tube. The pump includes at least one of a Direct Current (DC) powered pump, a Alternating Current (AC) powered pump, and a hydraulic pump.

[0054] In an aspect, the one or more dehumidifier units are configured to withdraw air through an inlet into the one or more dehumidifier units and enable dehumidification the air by passing the air over the first side of the at least one thermoelectric module, and blowing the dehumidified air out of the one or more dehumidifier units through an exhaust.

[0055] In an aspect, the at least one user provides instructions to vary the one or more temperature readings by the user interface, a voltage supplied to the at least one thermoelectric module is suitably adjusted.

[0056] In an aspect, a method for providing personalized cooling effect to users by using a personal radiant cooling system. The method includes the step of managing and circulating a fluid, by the personal radiant cooling system, where the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank coupled to at least one thermoelectric module, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. The at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) is coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein a fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one thermoelectric module (110-1) so that the fluid maintains the ambient environment at a desired temperature of the at least one user. The method includes the step of circulating, by the personal radiant cooling system, the fluid through at least one capillary tube arranged on a radiant panel assembly. The method includes the step of reducing and controlling humidity levels, by the personal radiant cooling system, where the one or more dehumidifier units includes at least one thermoelectric module coupled to at least one cooling fan, and the at least one cooling fan configured to draw the air from the surrounding and pass it over a cooler side of the thermoelectric module. The air when in contact with cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units and the resulting dry air is thrown back into the surrounding environment through the exhaust. The method includes the step of enabling, by the personal radiant cooling system, at least one user for adjusting one or more temperature readings of an ambient environment for providing personalized cooling effect to the at least one user.

[0057] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the personal radiant cooling system may include at least one thermoelectric module configured to cool a fluid inside a fluid tank. Further, the fluid tank may also be configured to a pump that circulates the cooled fluid from the fluid tank through at least one capillary tube, and back to the fluid tank from said at least one capillary tube. The at least one capillary tube may be arranged in the radiant panel assembly such that when the cooled fluid is circulated through the at least one capillary tube, the radiant panel assembly allows said cooled fluid to absorb heat from ambient environment. The fluid may then be circulated back to the fluid tank where said fluid may be cooled and circulated again through the at least one capillary tube until desired temperature is achieved.

[0058] In an aspect, the at least one thermoelectric module may be configured such that when supplied with electric current, cools a first side of the at least one thermoelectric module and heats a second side of the thermoelectric module, wherein the first side of the at least one thermoelectric module is configured to cool the fluid in the fluid tank. In an embodiment, a cooling fan may be configured on the second side of the at least one thermoelectric module to maintain said at least one thermoelectric module at an optimal temperature.

[0059] In an aspect, the system may also include one or more dehumidifier units configured to draw air through an inlet into the one or more dehumidifier units, dehumidify the air by passing said air over the cooler side of the at least one thermoelectric module, and blowing the dehumidified air out of the one or more dehumidifier units through an exhaust. In an embodiment, the one or more dehumidifier units may be configured on the sides of the fluid tank.

[0060] The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides the radiant cooling system personalized cooling effect to users, and the method thereof. The radiant cooling system by managing and circulating fluid by the radiant cooling system from the fluid tank assembly to the radiant panel assembly. The fluid tank assembly includes of fluid tank to hold fluid, thermoelectric module to cool (reduce the temperature) the fluid, and cooling fan to facilitate moderate functioning of the thermoelectric module by removing excess heat from the thermoelectric module. The radiant panel assembly includes of radiant capillary tubes sandwiched between conductive front layer made of copper, aluminum or cement grout and insulation back layer made of plastic, glass wool or highly insulative material. The radiant capillary tubes cover the entire surface of the radiant panel assembly. The method includes of circulating cooled / (heated) fluid from the fluid tank to the radiant capillary tubes. The cooled fluid in the radiant capillary tubes decrease the temperature of the front surface of the radiant panel assembly. This facilitates heat transfer between warm surrounding and cooler front surface of radiant panel assembly. The process of heat transfer facilitates absorption heat from the surrounding to the front surface of radiant panel assembly, thereby increasing the surface temperature of the front face radiant panel assembly. The heat from the front surface of radiant panel assembly is transferred to the fluid in the radiant capillary tubes. The warm fluid is transferred back to fluid tank, where it is cooled by the thermoelectric modules attached to the fluid tank. The risk of condensation on the radiant panel assembly is mitigated with the help of dehumidifier. The dehumidifier includes of thermoelectric module and cooling fan. The cooling fan draws (sucks) in the air from the surrounding and passes over the cooler side of the thermoelectric module. The air loses excess moisture (dehumidification) as it passes over the cooler side of the thermoelectric module and the dry air is thrown out through the exhaust. The user can input the required temperature on the user interface, which signals to increase or decrease the current flow to the thermoelectric module accordingly. The increase or decrease in current flow to the thermoelectric module accordingly changes the temperature on first side of the module.

[0062] FIG. 1A-1C illustrates an exemplary block diagram 100 of a radiant cooling system 102, an exemplary architecture of components of the radiant cooling system 102, and a side view of the radiant cooling system 102, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] In an embodiment, the radiant cooling system 102 (also known as system 102, herein) provides personalized cooling effect to users. The radiant cooling system 102 includes a fluid tank 104, fluid tank assembly 106, a pump 108, at least one thermoelectric module 110, a cooling fan 112, a radiant capillary tubes 114 (also known as capillary tubes 114, herein), one or more dehumidifier units 116, an exhaust 118, a radiant panel assembly 120 (also known as panel 120, herein), one or more fans 122, an inlet 124, an user interface 126, one or more modules (130), a finishing layer 132, an insulative layer 134, conductive layer 138. The fluid tank assembly 106 can be configured to manage and circulate a fluid, the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank 104 coupled to at least one thermoelectric module 110-1, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. In some examples, the fluids may include, but not limited to, water, air, natural gases, oils, and the like. The fluid may be suitably chosen to maximize heat absorption from the ambient environment.

[0064] In an embodiment, the fluid being cooled by at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 is pumped to radiant capillary tubes 114 through the pump 108. The dehumidifier unit 116 includes of at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 coupled to at least one cooling fan 112 configured to draw in the surrounding air and passes over the cooler side of thermoelectric module 110-2 and dry in thrown out through exhaust 118.

[0065] In an embodiment, the pump 108 coupled to the fluid tank assembly 106, and configured to circulate the fluid through at least one capillary tube 114 arranged on the radiant panel assembly 120.

[0066] In an embodiment, the one or more dehumidifier units 116 includes at least one thermoelectric module 110 cooling fan 112, to facilitate dehumidification of surrounding air. Each thermoelectric module 110 can be coupled to at least one cooling fan 112. The thermoelectric module 110 configured to the fluid tank 104 is coupled to the cooling fan 112 that facilitates removal of excess heat from the thermoelectric module 110. The thermoelectric module 110 configured to dehumidify is coupled to cooling fan that facilitates drawing (sucking) in the surrounding air. The at least one thermoelectric module 110 attached to the fluid tank 104, facilitates at least one of a cooling and a heating of the fluid in the tank. When electric current is supplied to thermoelectric module 110, first side of module is cooled and the second side is heated. The proper / moderate functioning of thermoelectric module 110 is facilitated with the help of at least one cooling fan 112 that removes the excess heat generated in the thermoelectric module.

[0067] Additionally, the system 102 may include at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 configured to the fluid tank assembly 106 and at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 configured to the one or more dehumidifier units 116 (hereinafter collectively referred to as the at least one thermoelectric module 110). Each thermoelectric module 110-1, 110-2 may be coupled to a cooling fan 112. In an aspect of the present disclosure, the personal radiant cooling system 102 may include at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 configured to cool a fluid inside the fluid tank 104 of the fluid tank assembly 106. The at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 may be configured to produce thermal energy. In an embodiment, the thermoelectric modules 110 may be configured such that when supplied with electric current, cools a first side of the at least one thermoelectric module 110 and heats a second side of the thermoelectric module 110. In such embodiments, the first side of the thermoelectric modules 110 may be configured either to cool the fluid in the fluid tank 104 or cool the air drawn in through the one or more dehumidifier units 116. In an embodiment, the thermoelectric modules 110 may be a Peltier module made of Bismuth Telluride, which may be doped suitably to produce elements of p-type and n-type semiconductors. In such embodiments, equal number of p-type and n-type semiconductors may be connected in series to form the at least one thermoelectric module 110. Further, the thermoelectric modules 110 may be placed over a ceramic substrate to thermally and electrically insulate individual elements.

[0068] In an embodiment, the cooling fan 112 may be configured on the second side of the at least one thermoelectric modules 110 to maintain said thermoelectric modules 110 at an optimal temperature. The cooling fan 112 may serve as a heat sink that, by blowing air over surface of the second side, removes heat from the at least one thermoelectric module 110 through convection. In an embodiment, the cooling fan 112 may be placed beneath the at least one thermoelectric module 110. By maintaining the second side at optimal temperature, may allow the at least one thermoelectric module 110 to operate efficiently. The at least one thermoelectric module 110-1, fluid tank 104 and the cooling fan 112 may form the fluid tank assembly 106. Furthermore, by using the thermoelectric modules 110, the system 102 may be capable of cooling an ambient environment without the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), consume less energy and leave a much lower environmental footprint when compared to conventional cooling solutions.

[0069] In an embodiment, the radiant panel assembly 120 includes of the one or more radiant capillary tubes 114 sandwiched between conductive layer 138 and insulating layer 134. A first surface 138 forms the front surface of radiant panel assembly 120 which is a highly conductive layer, where the surface may be made of a material which includes, but not limited to an aluminium sheet, a copper sheet, a cement grout and the like. A second surface 134 forms the back surface of the radiant panel assembly 120 which is an insulation layer may be made of a material which includes, but not limited to a glass wool. The finishing layer 132 is made of insulating material forms the finishing surface. The conductive layer 138 forms the first surface or front surface that covers the entire radiant capillary tubes 114 of the radiant panel assembly 120 that faces the user. The insulation layer forms second surface or back face that covers the entire radiant capillary tubes of the radiant panel assembly to avoid heat loss to the surrounding. The radiant capillary tubes are spaced and arranged to cover the entire surface area of the radiant panel assembly. The hierarchy of layer from the surface that faces the user is first surface / conductive layer 138, radiant capillary tubes 114, second surface / insulation layer 134 and finishing layer 132 which are affixed together to form the radiant panel assembly. The surface area of first surface / front surface is the area of radiant cooling system. To achieve the desired comfort for the user one or more modules 130 should be affixed together to achieve desired comfort. Chilled water from the fluid tank is circulated to the radiant capillary tubes through the pump 108. The radiant capillary tubes 114 affixed to conductive layer 138 cools the front surface / first surface. This facilitates heat transfer between warm surroundings and cooler front surface of radiant panel assembly. The heat transfer between cooler front face and warm surrounding, increases the fluid temperature in radiant capillary tubes 114. The fluid at higher temperature is circulated back to the fluid tank 104. The fluid is circulated continuously from the fluid tank 104 to the radiant capillary tubes 114 and back to the fluid tank 104 till the desired temperature is achieved for the at least one user.

[0070] In an embodiment, the user interface 126 coupled to the panel 120, and the user interface 126 enables at least one user to adjust one or more temperature readings of the ambient environment to provide personalized cooling effect within a pre-defined area to the at least one user. The predefined area ranges include, but not limited to: 0 to 10 metre square, or above. In such embodiments, the at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 may be configured such that temperature difference between the first side and second side of said at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 is proportional to voltage applied to said at least one thermoelectric module 110-1. In an embodiment, when the at least one user sends instructions to vary the temperature using the user interface 126 which may vary the voltage supplied to the at least one thermoelectric module 110-1 to suitably adjust the difference in temperatures between the first side and the second side of the module to maintain the ambient environment at a user's preferred or desired temperature.

[0071] In an embodiment, the fluid tank 104 of the fluid tank assembly 106 may also be configured to a pump 108 that circulates the cooled fluid from the fluid tank 104 through at least one capillary tube 114, and back to the fluid tank 104 from said at least one capillary tube 114. In an embodiment, the pump 108 may include, but not be limited to, a Direct Current (DC) powered pump, an Alternating Current (AC) powered pump, a hydraulic pump, and the like.

[0072] In an embodiment, the system 102 may include a mechanism that measure the ambient environmental humidity which is attached to the system 102. In such embodiments, the at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 may be configured such that temperature difference between the first side and second side of said at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 is proportional to voltage applied to said at least one thermoelectric module 110-2. In an embodiment, the interface may vary the voltage supplied to the at least one thermoelectric module 110-2 depending on temperature to which the air drawn in by the one or more dehumidifier units 116 need to be cooled. By cooling the air drawn in by the one or more dehumidifier units 116, moisture is removed from the said air and thrown back into the room through an exhaust 118. Dehumidifiers 116 reduce the humidity level in the air, thereby reducing the risk of condensation on the radiant panel assembly 120. The dehumidifier unit 116 includes the at least one thermoelectric module 110 and at least one cooling fan 112. The fan draws in the air from the surrounding environment and passes over the colder side of thermoelectric module. In this process, the excess moisture in the air is removed. The dry air is thrown out into the surrounding environment through the exhaust grill 118.

[0073] In an embodiment, at least one capillary tube 114 may be arranged in a panel 120 such that the temperature is distributed on the panel surface, thereby increasing the surface area for cooling. The fluid, after absorbing heat from the ambient environment, may then be circulated back to the fluid tank 104 where said fluid may be cooled and circulated again through the at least one capillary tube 114. The panel 120 and the at least one capillary tubes 114 may be composed of materials that facilitate exchange of heat between the at least one capillary tube 114 and the ambient environment. In an embodiment, the fluid in the at least one capillary tube 114 may absorb heat from the ambient environment through heat transfer process including, radiation, conduction, natural convection, and / or forced convection. Furthermore, the panel 120 and the at least one capillary tubes 114 may be composed of materials that prevent the formation of moulds, and material that do not generate odour due to use. In an embodiment the at least one capillary tube 114 may be configured above the fluid tank assembly 106. In an embodiment, at least one radiant capillary tube 114 is sandwiched between the conductive layer 138 and the insulative layer 134. The hierarchy of layers that faces the user is conductive layer 138 / first surface, radiant capillary tubes 114, insulative layer 134 and finishing layer 132 forms the radiant panel assembly 120. The at least one radiant capillary tube 114 is affixed to first surface such that the temperature is distributed evenly on the first surface. First surface is made of highly conductive material is facilitate heat transfer from at least one radiant capillary tube 114 and first surface that faces the user. The second surface is made of insulative material to avoid heat loss to the surrounding as it does not face the user. In another embodiment, the first side of the radiant panel assembly 120 that is made of thermally conducting material which will assist is heat absorption from the environment and a second side of the radiant panel assembly 120 that is made of insulating material that negates heat loss to the surrounding.

[0074] In embodiment, the cooled fluid is supplied to at least one radiant capillary tubes 114. Capillary tubes 114 affixed to conductive front surface, cools (reduces the temperature) the front surface of the radiant panel assembly 120. Thus, facilitating heat transfer between warm surrounding and chilled front surface of radiant panel assembly 120. The heat transfer increases the temperature of the surface and thereby increasing the temperature of the fluid. The warm fluid is supplied back to the fluid tank 104, where the fluid is cooled (loses its heat) by the thermoelectric module 110-1. The process of supplying cooled fluid to radiant capillary tubes 114 and warming of cooled fluid through heat transfer from surrounding and supplying back the warm fluid to tank 104 is a continuous process.

[0075] In embodiments as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the system 102 may include the at least one capillary tube 114 configured in a linear arrangement. However, in other embodiments, arrangement of the at least one capillary tube 114 may be optimized with an objective to maximize cooling efficiency of the system 102. Furthermore, the view factor, emissivity and the temperature difference required between the fluid in at least one capillary tube 114 and the ambient environment may be optimized to maximize cooling efficiency of the system, thereby allowing the user to maintain the ambient environment at the desired temperature.

[0076] In an embodiment, the system 102 may be configured such that the fluid in the fluid tank 104 is cooled by the at least one thermoelectric 110-1 and circulated through the at least one capillary tube 114 in the panel 120 by the pump 108. As the cooled fluid circulates through the at least one capillary tube 114, the cooled fluid may reduce the temperature by absorbing heat from the ambient environment, thereby allowing the system 102 to control the sensitive load in the ambient environment. The system 102 may be closed loop system or an open loop system. In case the system 102 is closed, the applied force by the pump 108 is sufficient to circulate the fluid in at least one capillary tube 114 back to the fluid tank 104. In case the system 102 is open loop, the applied force by the pump 108 is sufficient to circulate the fluid in at least one capillary tube 114 back to the fluid tank 104. Thereon, the pump 108 may circulate the re-cooled fluid back to the at least one capillary tube 114 in the panel 120. The system 102 may be configured to repeat circulation of the fluid through the at least one capillary tube 114 and the fluid tank 104 until the desired temperature of the user is reached. Further, the fluid's rate of circulation may be optimized to maximize cooling efficiency of the system 102.

[0077] In an aspect, the system may also include one or more dehumidifier units 116 configured on sides of the fluid tank assembly 106 to draw air through an inlet 124 into said dehumidifier unit 116, dehumidify the air by passing said air over the first side (i.e. cooler side) of the at least one thermoelectric module 110-2, and blowing the dehumidified air out of the one or more dehumidifier units 116 through an exhaust 118 (shown in FIG. 2). The one or more dehumidifier units 116 negates the risk of condensation affecting the efficient operation of the system 102. Additionally, the dehumidifier units 116, by dehumidifying the surrounding air, may allow the system 102 to control the latent load in the ambient environment. In embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the one or more dehumidifier units 116 may be configured at the sides of the fluid tank 104.

[0078] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary architecture representation of a bottom view of a radiant cooling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, the exhaust 118 may be configured at the bottom of the radiant cooling system 102. In an embodiment, the radiant cooling system 102 may also include an exhaust 118 that may be indicative of a grill, ‘jali’, filter, mesh grid, duct, and / or any combination thereof. The exhaust 118 may be configured to throw out air once said air has been dehumidified by the dehumidifying unit 160.

[0080] In an embodiment, the radiant cooling system 102 may also include an occupant fan 122 that circulates air around the occupant / user. In an embodiment, the occupant fan 122 may be configured on the front side of the panel 120. The occupant fan 122 may be configured to improve ventilation or circulation of air in the ambient environment around the occupant.

[0081] In an embodiment, the radiant cooling system 102 may be configured to be modular and reconfigurable based on dynamic requirements. Since the radiant cooling system 102 may be modular, one or more of radiant cooling systems 102 may be suitably configured in a room with an objective to maximize cooling efficiency.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more the radiant cooling system 102 may be configured at or proximate to corresponding cubicles of each occupant / user in the room. In such examples, the radiant cooling system 102 may be used as partition walls. Additionally, the interface of the radiant cooling system 102 may allow the users to have personalized cooling. Such distributed configuration of the one or more radiant cooling system 102 may allow for symmetric cooling of the occupant, while eliminating the risk or need for overcooling / undercooling. In an embodiment, the radiant cooling system 102 may also be portable, thereby allowing users to move and reposition the radiant cooling system 102 in desired orientations for cooling. Furthermore, since the radiant cooling system 102 is modular and portable, one or more of systems 100 may be easily reconfigured in newer orientations based on new requirements.

[0083] Therefore, the present disclosure solves the need for a personal cooling system that has reduced energy requirements and environmental footprint. Furthermore, the present disclosure solves the need for a radiant cooling system that is modular, portable and easily reconfigurable.

[0084] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method 300 for method for providing personalized cooling effect to users by using a personal radiant cooling system 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] In an embodiment, a method 300 for providing personalized cooling effect to users by using a personal radiant cooling system 102. At step 302, enabling heat exchange process, by a one or more modules 130 of the personal radiant cooling system 102 between the radiant cooling system 102 and at least one user. At step 304, managing and circulating a fluid, by the personal radiant cooling system 102, where the fluid tank assembly includes a fluid tank 104 coupled to at least one thermoelectric module 110, and the fluid tank 104 is configured to hold the fluid. The fluid includes at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry. User set the desired temperature on the user interface 126. At step 306, circulating, by the personal radiant cooling system 102, the fluid through at least one capillary tube 114 arranged on a panel 120. The cooled fluid is circulated through the capillary tubes 114. The conductive first side of radiant panel assembly facilitates heat transfer between cooled fluid and surrounding. The fluid becomes warm as it absorbs heat from surrounding. Warm fluid is circulated back to the fluid tank 104 where it is cooled again by thermoelectric module 110-1. This process of supplying cooled fluid from tank 104 to capillary tube 114 and absorbing heat from the surrounding to the fluid and supplying back to the tank 104 continues till desired temperature is achieved. At step 308, reducing and controlling humidity levels, by the personal radiant cooling system 102, where the dehumidifier unit 116 includes at least one thermoelectric module 110 and at least one cooling fan 112. The cooling fan 112 draws in air from the surrounding through the inlet 124 and passes over the cooler side of the thermoelectric module 110-2, thereby losing the excess moisture in the air. The dry air is thrown back into the surrounding environment through the exhaust 118. Finally, at step 310, enabling, by the personal radiant cooling system 102, at least one user for adjusting one or more temperature readings of an ambient environment for providing personalized cooling effect to the at least one user.

[0086] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented merely as illustrative of the invention and not as limitation.Advantages of the Present Disclosure

[0087] The present disclosure provides a radiant cooling system for providing personalized cooling effect to users, and method thereof.

[0088] The present disclosure provides an efficient, cost-effective, easy to use and easy to implement mechanism in present system.

[0089] The present disclosure contributes to a reduction in overall energy consumption, leading to a smaller environmental footprint.

[0090] The present disclosure provides adjustments of the temperature of their ambient environment. Users can customize the cooling experience based on preferences. Adjustable settings allow for personalized temperature control, enhancing individual comfort.

[0091] The present disclosure provides a quick response to changes in temperature settings, offering rapid adjustments to meet the user's comfort requirements.

[0092] The present disclosure provides a radiant cooling system which is sustainable as the load on existing air conditioners is reduced. Thereby, reducing load on energy grid. Integrating the radiant cooling system with renewable energy sources further enhances sustainability and reducing reliance on conventional energy.

Claims

1. A radiant cooling system for providing a personalized cooling effect to at least one user, comprising:one or more modules configured to enable heat exchange process between the radiant cooling system and the at least one user, wherein the one or more modules comprises:a fluid tank assembly configured to manage and circulate a fluid, wherein the fluid tank assembly comprises:a fluid tank coupled to at least one first thermoelectric module, wherein the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid, wherein the fluid comprises at least one of a gas, a liquid, a fluidized solid, and a slurry, wherein the at least one first thermoelectric module is coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein a fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one first thermoelectric module so that the fluid maintains an ambient environment at a desired temperature of the at least one user;a pump coupled to the fluid tank assembly, and configured to circulate the fluid through at least one radiant capillary tube arranged on a radiant panel assembly; andone or more dehumidifier units configured to reduce and control humidity levels, wherein the one or more dehumidifier units comprise:at least one second thermoelectric module coupled to at least one cooling fan, wherein the at least one cooling fan is configured to draw an air from a surrounding and pass the air over a cooler side of the at least one second thermoelectric module, wherein the air when in contact with a cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units and a resulting dry air is thrown back into the ambient environment through an exhaust; andan user interface coupled to the radiant panel assembly, and enables the at least one user to adjust one or more temperature readings of the ambient environment to provide the personalized cooling effect within a pre defined area to the at least one user.

2. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the predefined area of the radiant panel assembly is configured for the at least one user to maintain thermal comfort, wherein the predefined area ranges between 0 to 10 metre square.

3. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the radiant panel assembly of the predefined area comprises the at least one radiant capillary tube sandwiched between a conductive layer and an insulating layer, wherein a cooled fluid is pumped from the fluid tank into the at least one radiant capillary tubes configured to cool a first surface of the radiant panel assembly.

4. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first thermoelectric module is configured to cool the fluid inside the fluid tank of the fluid tank assembly, andwherein the at least one second thermoelectric module is configured to produce thermal energy.

5. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first thermoelectric module is configured to cool a first side of the at least one first thermoelectric module and heat a second side of the at least one first thermoelectric module based on an electric current supply, and the at least one second thermoelectric module is configured to cool a first side of the at least one second thermoelectric module and heat a second side of the at least one second thermoelectric module based on the electric current supply.

6. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, further comprising:the at least one cooling fan coupled to a second side of the at least one first thermoelectric module and the at least one second thermoelectric module, and configured to maintain an optimal temperature of the at least one first thermoelectric module and the at least one second thermoelectric module.

7. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the fluid absorbs heat from the ambient environment, and the fluid is circulated back to the fluid tank to obtain a cooled fluid circulated through the at least one radiant capillary tube.

8. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the pump is configured to circulate a cooled fluid from the fluid tank through the at least one radiant capillary tube, and back to the fluid tank from the at least one radiant capillary tube, andwherein the pump comprises at least one of a Direct Current (DC) powered pump, an Alternating Current (AC) powered pump, and a hydraulic pump.

9. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more dehumidifier units are configured to withdraw the air through an inlet into the one or more dehumidifier units and enable dehumidification the air by passing the air over a first side of the at least one first thermoelectric module and the at least one second thermoelectric module, and blowing a dehumidified air out of the one or more dehumidifier units through the exhaust.

10. The radiant cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one user provides instructions to vary the one or more temperature readings by the user interface, and a voltage supplied to the at least one first thermoelectric module is suitably adjusted.

11. A method for providing a personalized cooling effect to at least one user by using the radiant cooling system according to claim 1, comprising steps of:enabling a heat exchange process, by the one or more modules of the radiant cooling system, between the radiant cooling system and the at least one user;managing and circulating the fluid, by the radiant cooling system, wherein the fluid tank assembly comprises the fluid tank coupled to the at least one first thermoelectric module, and the fluid tank is configured to hold the fluid, wherein the fluid comprises at least one of the gas, the liquid, the fluidized solid, and the slurry, wherein the at least one first thermoelectric module is coupled to the fluid tank, and configured to cool the fluid inside, wherein the fluid temperature in the fluid tank is cooled by the at least one first thermoelectric module so that the fluid maintains the ambient environment at the desired temperature of the at least one user;circulating, by the radiant cooling system, the fluid through the at least one capillary tube arranged on the radiant panel assembly;reducing and controlling the humidity levels, by the personal radiant cooling system, wherein the one or more dehumidifier units comprise:the at least one second thermoelectric module coupled to the at least one cooling fan, wherein the at least one cooling fan is configured to draw the air from the surrounding and pass the air over the cooler side of the at least one second thermoelectric module, wherein the air when in contact with the cooler surface with the one or more dehumidifier units and the resulting dry air is thrown back into the ambient environment through the exhaust; andenabling, by the radiant cooling system, the at least one user for adjusting the one or more temperature readings of the ambient environment for providing the personalized cooling effect to the at least one user.

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