Innovative hybrid attic ventilation method for energy conservation and climate control

Abstract

This invention addresses the challenge of thermal comfort in hot-humid tropical climates, where factors like solar radiation, humidity, and air temperature significantly affect indoor conditions. The patented hybrid attic ventilation technique operates continuously over 24 hours to improve ventilation in attics, which are crucial for maintaining overall building thermal performance. Field studies comparing a traditional attic setup with one utilizing the hybrid ventilation system were conducted in two typical one-storey terrace houses. Using Building Information Modeling (BIM) for energy consumption analysis, the results indicated that the hybrid system reduced indoor temperature by 1°C and relative humidity by 7%, leading to a notable 10% reduction in overall energy consumption. This innovative hybrid technique demonstrates enhanced thermal comfort and energy efficiency by leveraging both nighttime and daytime ventilation, making it a sustainable solution for residential buildings in tropical regions.

Description

[0001] Innovative Hybrid Attic Ventilation Method for Energy Conservation and Climate Control

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of building environmental control systems, specifically to ventilation methods employed in attics to enhance thermal comfort and energy efficiency in residential buildings. More particularly, the invention pertains to a hybrid attic ventilation system designed for hot-humid tropical climates. The invention seeks to address the challenges posed by excessive solar radiation, high humidity levels, and elevated air temperatures, which adversely affect indoor environmental conditions. By employing an innovative continuous ventilation approach that integrates both natural and mechanical ventilation strategies, the invention aims to optimize indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption in residential structures.

[0004] Prior Art:

[0005] Roof Ventilation System Utilizing Solar Energy

[0006] This patent discusses a roof ventilation system designed to harness solar energy to drive mechanical ventilation fans. It aims to reduce indoor temperatures in buildings exposed to high solar radiation.

[0007] Relevance: Although the use of solar energy is relevant, this system primarily focuses on mechanical ventilation without integrating natural ventilation methods or addressing humidity control, which are critical in tropical climates.

[0008] Continuous Attic Ventilation Apparatus

[0009] This European patent outlines a continuous ventilation apparatus for attics that operates using a series of vents and fans to maintain airflow. It targets energy conservation and improved indoor air quality.

[0010] Relevance: While the focus on continuous operation is similar, this system lacks the hybrid approach that combines both natural and mechanical ventilation, which is essential for effectively managing humidity levels in hot-humid climates. Ventilation System for Humid Climates

[0011] This international patent presents a ventilation system specifically designed for humid climates, employing advanced moisture control techniques to reduce indoor humidity levels. Relevance: This patent has relevant aspects regarding humidity control; however, it does not incorporate the continuous hybrid ventilation strategy that allows for both daytime and nighttime airflow management, which is a cornerstone of the proposed invention.

[0012] Energy- Efficient Attic Ventilation This Canadian patent describes an energy-efficient attic ventilation system that combines passive and active ventilation methods to regulate temperature and humidity.

[0013] Relevance: While it covers aspects of energy efficiency and ventilation, it does not focus on the specific challenges of hot-humid tropical climates, nor does it provide a continuous operational model as proposed in the current invention.

[0014] The reviewed patents indicate a range of approaches to ventilation and energy efficiency in buildings. However, none specifically address the unique challenges of hot-humid tropical climates with a hybrid ventilation method that integrates both natural and mechanical strategies for continuous operation. The proposed invention stands out by focusing on the specific environmental conditions of regions, providing a sustainable solution that enhances both thermal comfort and energy efficiency.

[0015] Description

[0016] The invention is designed to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive solar radiation, high humidity levels, and elevated air temperatures, which compromise indoor environmental quality. By integrating both natural and mechanical ventilation strategies in a continuous manner, this hybrid attic ventilation system aims to optimize indoor air quality while concurrently reducing energy consumption in residential buildings Air conditioning systems are essentially responsible for controlling indoor temperature and providing residents with thermal comfort in terms of both relative humidity and temperature. Such comfort has been described as “condition of mind that expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment (Niu, 2004).

[0017] Extreme heat transmission through building envelopes causes the residential buildings to have a high cooling requirement, especially in the case of low-rise buildings like the terraced ones in which 70% of heat comes in through the roof. During hot days, a high amount of heat is formed in the attic space due to solar energy absorption on the roof (Tantasavasdi et al., 2001). In this condition, the hot air trapped during the daytime between the roof and the ceiling causes a hot climate inside the house (Zain et al., 2007). The heat trapped in the attic space is transmitted down to the house space, hence raising the interior temperature (Zain et al., 2007)

[0018] The two main causes of such phenomena are the attic air exchanges and deficient ventilation, which increase the air-conditioning demand and the cooling load. In other words, the air-conditioning system has to work for a longer time or in a higher capacity to lessen the temperature, which leads to an increase in energy consumption (Yu et al., 2009).

[0019] Advantages of the Invention

[0020] Enhanced Thermal Comfort: Significant reduction in indoor temperature and humidity levels, creating a more comfortable living environment.

[0021] Energy Efficiency: Notable decrease in overall energy consumption, contributing to lower utility bills and reduced environmental impact.

[0022] Sustainability: Utilizes a combination of natural and mechanical ventilation, promoting eco-friendly building practices.

[0023] Adaptability: Specifically tailored for hot-humid tropical climates, making it an ideal solution for regions facing similar environmental challenges.

[0024] This innovative hybrid attic ventilation method represents a significant advancement in building environmental control technology, offering a practical and effective solution for enhancing thermal comfort and energy efficiency in residential buildings situated in hot-humid climates. The successful implementation of this system could pave the way for broader applications in similar environments, promoting sustainable living and reducing energy dependency.

[0025] The Innovative Hybrid Attic Ventilation Method for Energy Conservation and Climate Control is a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance indoor thermal comfort and energy efficiency in residential buildings, specifically tailored for hot-humid tropical climates like Malaysia. This invention integrates both natural and mechanical ventilation strategies, operating continuously over a 24-hour cycle to optimize attic airflow and reduce indoor temperature and humidity levels.

[0026] Hybrid Ventilation System:

[0027] The system combines natural ventilation (via strategically placed vents) with mechanical ventilation (using energy-efficient fans) to create a balanced airflow throughout the attic space. This hybrid approach allows for effective cooling and moisture control regardless of external weather conditions.

[0028] Continuous Operation:

[0029] The design ensures continuous ventilation throughout the day and night. During the cooler nighttime hours, natural ventilation is maximized, allowing cooler air to enter and reduce indoor temperatures. During the hotter daytime hours, mechanical ventilation assists in maintaining airflow and expelling hot, humid air from the attic.

[0030] Building Information Modeling (BIM):

[0031] The invention employs advanced BIM techniques to analyze energy consumption patterns and simulate airflow dynamics within the attic. This technology allows for precise adjustments and optimizations based on real-time data, ensuring maximum efficiency and performance.

[0032] Temperature and Humidity Sensors:

[0033] Integrated sensors monitor indoor temperature and humidity levels continuously. This data is used to control both natural and mechanical ventilation, ensuring that the system responds dynamically to changing conditions and maintaining optimal indoor air quality.

[0034] User Interface:

[0035] The system includes a user-friendly interface that allows homeowners to monitor and adjust ventilation settings easily. This feature enhances user engagement and control over indoor environmental conditions.

[0036] Method of Operation

[0037] Nighttime Ventilation:

[0038] When outdoor temperatures drop, the system opens vents to allow cooler air to flow into the attic. This natural airflow helps lower indoor temperatures and reduces humidity levels, creating a more comfortable environment.

[0039] Daytime Ventilation:

[0040] As temperatures rise, the mechanical ventilation system activates, utilizing energy- efficient fans to expel hot air from the attic while drawing in cooler air from shaded areas of the building. This process helps to prevent heat buildup and maintains a consistent indoor climate.

[0041] Continuous Feedback Loop:

[0042] The combination of sensor data and BIM analysis creates a feedback loop, allowing the system to adjust ventilation strategies in real-time. This adaptability ensures that energy consumption is minimized while maintaining optimal thermal comfort.

[0043] Improved Thermal Comfort:

[0044] By reducing indoor temperatures and humidity levels, the invention enhances overall comfort for residents, making living spaces more enjoyable, especially in hot-humid climates. Energy Efficiency:

[0045] The hybrid approach significantly decreases energy consumption — field studies demonstrated a 10% reduction in overall energy use — resulting in lower utility costs and a reduced environmental footprint. Sustainability:

[0046] The invention promotes sustainable living by utilizing natural ventilation whenever possible and minimizing reliance on mechanical systems, aligning with eco-friendly building practices.

[0047] Scalability: The system can be easily adapted for various residential designs and scales, making it suitable for a wide range of building types in tropical climates.

[0048] The Innovative Hybrid Attic Ventilation Method presents a comprehensive solution to the challenges of thermal comfort and energy efficiency in hot-humid tropical environments. By combining natural and mechanical ventilation strategies in a continuous operation model, this invention not only enhances indoor living conditions but also supports sustainable building practices, making it a significant advancement in the field of building environmental control systems.

[0049] Overview Drawings

[0050] The drawings accompanying the patent application for the Innovative Hybrid Attic Ventilation Method for Energy Conservation and Climate Control provide visual representations of the system's components, layout, and operational mechanisms. Below is a brief overview of each drawing:

[0051] Drawing 1 : System Architecture

[0052] The layout of the case study building that divided seven zones in the simulated model. This diagram illustrates the overall architecture of the hybrid attic ventilation system.

[0053] It shows the integration of natural and mechanical ventilation components, including vents, fans, and control units. Placement of vents for optimal airflow.

[0054] Location of mechanical fans, highlighting their role in expelling hot air.

[0055] Connection to the building’s main structure, demonstrating how the system interfaces with indoor environments.

[0056] Drawing 2: The attic and the location of mechanical fans and Operational Flow Diagram

[0057] This flowchart details the operational logic of the ventilation system during different times of the day.

[0058] Steps for nighttime ventilation, emphasizing the opening of natural vents.

[0059] Mechanisms for activating mechanical fans during the day.

[0060] Feedback loop from temperature and humidity sensors to the control unit, illustrating real-time adjustments.

[0061] Drawing 3: The attic and the location of natural ventilation and sensor integration

[0062] This drawing depicts the placement of sensors within the attic space and their connectivity to the control unit.

[0063] Locations of temperature and humidity sensors.

[0064] Wiring and communication pathways connecting sensors to the system’s control interface. indication of data flow from sensors to the Building information Modeling (BIM) system for analysis.

[0065] Drawing 4: View of simulated building and user interface design

[0066] This illustration presents the design of the user interface that homeowners interact with to monitor and control the ventilation system.

[0067] Control options for manual adjustments of ventilation settings. Alerts and notifications for maintenance or performance issues.

[0068] Drawing 5: The measurement tool installation by 1.5 m height from the floor and comparative energy consumption

[0069] Time intervals illustrating energy use patterns throughout a typical day, reflecting the system's efficiency.

[0070] The drawings collectively provide a comprehensive visual understanding of the Innovative Hybrid Attic Ventilation Method, illustrating its components, operational processes, and user interface. They support the written description of the invention, highlighting its unique features and advantages in enhancing thermal comfort and energy efficiency in residential buildings.

[0071] References:

[0072] [1], Niu, J. (2004). Some significant environmental issues in high-rise residential building design in urban areas. Energy and buildings, 36(12), 1259-1263. [2] Tantasavasdi, C., Srebric, J., and Chen, Q. (2001). Natural ventilation design for houses in Thailand. Energy and Buildings, 33(8), 815-824.

[0073] [3] Zain, Z. M., Taib, M. N., and Baki, S. M. S. (2007). Hot and humid climate: prospect for thermal comfort in residential building. Desalination, 209(1-3), 261-268. [4] Zain, Z. M., Taib, M. N., and Baki, S. M. S. (2007). Hot and humid climate: prospect for thermal comfort in residential building. Desalination, 209(1-3), 261-268.

[0074] [5] Yu, B., Hu, Z., Liu, M., Yang, H., Kong, Q., and Liu, Y. (2009). Review of research on air-conditioning systems and indoor air quality control for human health. International journal of refrigeration, 32(1), 3-20.

Claims

Claims1.- A hybrid attic ventilation system for residential buildings in hot-humid tropical climates, comprising:● A combination of natural ventilation means and mechanical ventilation means designed to operate continuously over a 24-hour cycle;● at least one natural vent positioned to optimize airflow during nighttime cooling;● At least one energy-efficient mechanical fan configured to expel hot air from the attic during daytime operation.● Temperature and humidity sensors integrated within the attic space, capable of providing real-time data to a central control unit.● Activated automatically during nighttime hours to allow cooler air to flow into the attic.● Wherein the mechanical ventilation means is activated during daytime hours to maintain airflow and prevent heat buildup in the attic.● Further comprising a user interface that allows homeowners to monitor indoor temperature and humidity levels and receive alerts regarding system performance and maintenance needs.2.- A method for improving indoor thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption in residential buildings, characterized by:● Continuously operating a hybrid attic ventilation system that combines natural and mechanical ventilation● Utilizing natural ventilation during nighttime to lower indoor temperatures and humidity levels;● Activating mechanical ventilation during daytime to expel hot air and maintain optimal indoor conditions.● Integrating temperature and humidity sensors to monitor indoor conditions and adjust ventilation strategies in real-time.3.- Use of a hybrid attic ventilation system according to claims 1 and 2 in residential buildings.

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