Method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system using functionally combined and connecting pressure-measuring devices and a method of adaptive calibration thereof

Abstract

Method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system using functionally combined and connecting pressure-measuring devices, characterised in that the pressure sensors receive pressure signals from each pressure station (SC), thereby establishing pressure distances at individual sections, and the functionally integrated pressure devices, using a system of sensors and an expansion phenomenon, regulate the direction and intensity (velocity) of the fluid flow within the facility enabling the adaptation of the flows to changing conditions and the expected quality / parameters of the airflow. Method for adaptive calibration of pressure-measuring devices with the use of differential pressure, device calibrations, algorithms, pressure devices and pushing devices, characterised in that it consists in establishing pressure distances of distributed devices and connecting them to a grid of functional relationships of distributed devices taking into account the pressure distances between them by transmitting a pressure signal between a transmitter in the form of a pressure device and a receiver in the form of a pressure sensor; whereby the calibration is performed by the input of the functional settings known in the state of the art appropriate to the expectations for a given room and correlating this with the pressure calibration (the measurement of pressure distances), thereby obtaining the actual pressure-functional connections of the distributed devices.

Description

[0001] Method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system using functionally combined and connecting pressure-measuring devices and a method of adaptive calibration thereof

[0002] The subject of the invention consists in a new and innovative method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system using functionally connected and communicating pressure-measuring devices and a method of adaptive calibration thereof, for use in households, public utility facilities and industry, urban farms and other facilities and especially in closed systems and buildings associated with ventilation and air recuperation. Various methods for the management of fluid flow are known.

[0003] From the patent no. 243204 a method of adaptive control of the steam cooling process in a condenser is known, which consists in the fact that, depending on the time-variable load of the steam turbine, the temperature of the cooling water at the inlet to the condenser, the degree to which condenser pipes are contaminated and the possible presence of air in the steam, the pressure of the condensing vapour in the condenser is determined in correlation with the heat transfer coefficient, and subsequently, the value of the set condensing vapour pressure in the condenser is maintained by adjusting the heat transfer surface area and the flow rate of the cooling water.

[0004] From the invention no. P 417098, a system is known for measuring / recording the concentration of air dustiness and automatically controlling the amount of such dustiness in mine workings. The system is equipped with a module built of an optical dust counter and a control unit, which is connected using a transmission medium to an electro-valve, whereby the control unit processes the signals received from the dust counter, measuring the amount of dust present in the workings, and sends the processed signal in the form of an electrical impulse via the transmission medium to the electro-valve that opens / closes the flow of the sprinkling agent into the sprinkling set. The model used in the control unit, based on a specific algorithm, is replaceable.

[0005] From invention no. P 435278, a monitoring system for uninterruptible power supply devices is known, characterised in that the communication port of the uninterruptible power supply devices is connected to the communication port number one of the embedded systems, whose communication port number two is connected to the communication port of sensors of power supply parameters. The communication port of ambient environmental parameters sensors is connected to communication port number three of the embedded systems, whose communication port number four is connected to the communication port of weather parameters sensors. The embedded systems contain systems bi-directional data transmission whose outputs are connected to the telecommunications network. The computer located in the monitoring centre is equipped with event prediction algorithms.

[0006] A common feature, which also constitutes a disadvantage, of the various control and fluid transport systems, especially in central recuperation with duct distributions, is the need for specialised design and regular maintenance / cleaning of these distributions, as well as the dangers of carrying out these activities incorrectly or neglecting them altogether. These disadvantages were particularly visible with the outbreak of the global COVID-19 pandemic, proving duct air distribution to be one of the significant sources of pathogen spread, especially in public and healthcare facilities.

[0007] The solution according to the invention overcomes these inconveniences and risks by providing a way to control flows (fluid transport) between rooms within a facility, with no need for duct distributions, thanks to an innovative adaptive calibration method.

[0008] The solution according to the invention works when the fluid to be transported and the fluid that fills the space / storage cell remain in the same state of matter and the same type.

[0009] Regardless of the function of the building (residential, industrial, storage or other) and its internal architectural layout, the layout of the rooms can be considered as a system of air storage cells / reservoirs with specific, usually somewhat individual properties and expectations with regards to parameters and composition. Modem buildings are characterised by a relative airtightness between the interior and exterior with a relative unsealing within the internal layout. Depending on the purpose of the buildings and the room functions, the air is expected to be given specific, expected parameters, atmosphere (the mixture of gases and other substances content), humidity level, pressure and other parameters, and to move from the air intake in the expected manner (directions, velocity, etc.) and then to leave the building through the exhaust as used air. According to the phenomenon of expansion, known in the state of the art, in response to pressure differences occurring in pressure centres, expansion occurs, which involves the flow of a fluid from an area of higher pressure to an area of lower pressure, in an attempt to reach equilibrium. As a result of expansion, fluid displacement can be used as a transport method. Another phenomenon known in the state of the art is related to the propagation of energy through a medium in the form of liquids, fluids or solids; it results in vibrations of the molecules of matter that create sound waves being a type of pressure wave. This mechanism makes it possible to use a fluid as an information carrier (communication medium) by means of the same (pressure) equipment applied for its expansion transport. Furthermore, according to the law of conservation of mass known in the state of the art, the mass of the fluid discharged must be equal to the mass of the fluid supplied in a closed system. This phenomenon makes it possible to maintain control over the mass of flowing gravitational air (treating gravitational ducts as air exhausts), on condition that the closed system (tightness of the facility) is maintained and the amount of air supplied to the facility through the intake is controlled. According to the law of conservation of mass, the amount of fluid discharged as used fluid through the gravity ventilation ducts will remain equal to the mass of fluid supplied into the closed system (in the solution according to the invention, equal to the mass of the value of the balanced positive pressure provided by the pressure stations that supply the facility). The amount of gravity air in a sealed building can be thus controlled by controlling the operation of a system of distributed pressure-measuring devices and by regulating the amount of supply air introduced into the building, while remaining less sensitive to the prevalent environmental variables (e.g. atmospheric conditions) than in the case of the gravity solutions known in the state of the art based on gravity air intake ventilation ducts and air intake sets.

[0010] In the method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system between functionally integrated and communicated devices according to the invention, pressure devices (pressure stations - SC and pushing stations - ST) distributed within the facility in pressure centres regulate the pressure level of the fluid in their surroundings and, through the phenomenon of expansion, influence the direction and dynamics of fluid flow, while pressure sensors placed in the same centres note the ambient pressure, including the pressure signals of the pressure stations (SC) and transmit them to a computer. The computer, placed in the monitoring centre, processes the received signals with the use of adaptive calibration algorithms, constant operation algorithms and extraordinary (incidental) events, and then transmits commands to the individual pressure devices setting the operating parameters thereof.

[0011] As a result of controlling and differentiating pressures in the pressure centres, the phenomenon of expansion and controlled flows occurs within a closed cycle. This method of pressure transport and control ensures flows in accordance with the expected air operating patterns used in duct distributions, known in the state of the art (used in duct distribution systems). It also enables adaptability (responsiveness), hitherto unknown state of the art, of air operation to changing ambient and fluid conditions and parameters, as well as to occurring extraordinary phenomena.

[0012] The solution according to the invention comprises a system of pressure sensors and pressure devices (pressure station - SC and pushing station - ST) distributed in pressure centres within the facility and communicated with a computer in a monitoring centre, and an adaptive calibration algorithm enabling the calibration of the devices to pressure distances between pressure centres, regardless of the construction and internal layout of the facility. It is advantageous if the solution according to the invention is supported by the use of computer support known in the state of the art, and by network communication method of the devices, for example by wired connections, Bluetooth, WiFi or other connections. The function of the sets of sensors and pressure stations (SC) installed onto the external partitions (facades) of the facility can be performed by in-wall recuperation devices known in the state of the art, advantageously ones equipped with air pressure sensors. The function of the pushing stations (ST) may be performed by fan devices known in the state of the art.

[0013] The essence of the fluid flow controlling method in a distributed system using functionally connected and interconnected pressure-measuring devices lies in the fact that the pressure sensors receive pressure signals from each pressure station (SC) determining the pressure distances at individual sections, whereas the functionally integrated pressure devices, owing to the sensor system they are equipped with and the expansion phenomenon, regulate the direction and intensity (velocity) of the fluid flow within the facility, enabling adaptation of the flow to changing conditions and its expected quality / parameters.

[0014] The essence of the adaptive calibration of pressure-measuring devices lies in establishing the pressure distances of the distributed devices and connecting them to the grid of functional connections of the distributed devices while taking into account the pressure distances between them by transmitting a pressure signal between a transmitter being a pressure device and a receiver being a pressure sensor; whereby the calibration is performed by introducing functional settings known in the state of the art appropriate to the expectations with regards to a given room and combining this with the pressure calibration (measurement of pressure distances) thus obtaining the actual functional-pressure connections of the distributed devices; whereby, once the pressure station (SC) and pushing station (ST) devices have been installed in individual rooms, the appropriate pattern of functional settings is selected or manual setting of patterns of the fluid operation, including air, is performed, which is appropriate to the function of the facility and the individual rooms / air storage cells; and once the pressure station (SC) and transfer station (ST) equipment has been installed in individual partitions, the appropriate pattern of functional settings is selected or manual setting of patterns of the fluid operation, including air, is performed, which are appropriate to the function of the facility and the individual rooms / air storage cells; whereby a method of calibrating pressure-measuring devices consists in synchronising the pressure devices in such a way that one pressure device emits a pressure signal while the other pressure devices capture the signal wirelessly, in a manner known in the state of the art, using pressure sensors; whereby the transmitter emits a pressure signal until the last of the receivers reports that it has received the signal or until a predetermined time has elapsed; whereby each receiver, while recording pressure signal, informs the sender and / or a computer about this fact, depending on the place in which the pressure distance record is made, thereby taking into account both the order in which the pressure signal is received and its intensity; and whereby, once the transmission by the pressure device is over, the subsequent pressure device becomes the sender and the remaining ones become the receivers, and thus the procedure is repeated; whereby a sensor integrated with the pressure-measuring device system transmits the emergency message advantageously to a computer which, according to an algorithm programmed for such an event, known in the state of the art, forces a change in the fluid flow direction relative to the standard operating mode of the facility established in the course of its operation and at the same time triggers a warning procedure appropriate to the emergency; whereby pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced negative pressure mode act as an air exhaust in the air pattern, whereas pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced positive pressure mode act as an air intake in the air pattern; whereby the vacuum level generated by pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced negative pressure mode corresponds to the vacuum level generated by pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced positive pressure mode.

[0015] In a variation of the invention that consists in manual entry of functional settings by the user, the measurement of pressure distances is also performed automatically using an algorithm for the execution of the pressure device control procedure in order to achieve the technical effect of adapting the device system to the ambient conditions and for effective performance of the flow control function.

[0016] In the solution according to the invention, the determination of pressure distances is performed by transmitting a pressure signal of a certain intensity from point "A" (by a pressure device or pushing device) and comparing this signal with the time and intensity reading (recorded by a pressure sensor) at point "B". The measurement of the pressure distances, in combination with the setting of the function of the devices, enables the establishing of a grid of the actual function-pressure connection of the distributed devices; whereby adaptive calibration follows the entry of the functional air operation patterns known in the state of the art adequate to the expectations for a given room / air storage cells and a given facility.

[0017] The greater the air-tightness between the inside and outside of the facility and the lower airtightness between the individual rooms / air storage cells of the facility, the higher the efficiency of the system. Any leakage between the inside and outside of the facility will result in deteriorating the performance of the system but does not determine a total loss of efficiency.

[0018] In the method according to the invention, the pressure sensors measure the ambient pressure of the environment in which they are located. They receive pressure signals from the station at which they are located, as well as from other (remote) pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST). The sensors transmit information concerning the measurement and the pressure signals received to a computer located in the monitoring centre equipped with an adaptive calibration algorithm and to a computer program that supports functional settings or enables manual settings, as well as algorithms known in the state of the art for control, event prediction and response to the occurrence of incidental parameters. These signals are processed by the computer and then, through a dedicated computer programme, they are transmitted to the respective pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST) as commands to adjust the operating parameters of the stations to the expected results. The control function follows the same mechanism. The pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST) perform the transmitting-receiving communication of the pressure centres, while the pressure sensors perform the measuring and transmitting functions. The function of the controlled pressure centres is performed by the pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST). Pressure stations (SC) are located in or near the external partitions of the facility (that separate the interior from the exterior of the building), thereby supplying fluids from the environment to the interior and discharging fluids from the interior of the facility to the surroundings. Pressure stations (SC) determine the level of pressure they generate (balanced positive pressure or balanced negative pressure by adjusting the intensity of fluid exchange between the interior and exterior of the building). Pushing stations (ST) are located in the internal partitions of the facility or in the open interior space. Their function is to push the fluid in the desired direction, which can be achieved by one-way pushing (in an open space such as a corridor), or two-way pushing (especially when installed in an internal partition) thereby providing bi-directional flows. The number of pressure stations (SC) used depends primarily on the number of rooms / air storage cells within the facility (a minimum of one pressure station - SC - per room is required). The number of pushing stations (ST) used depends on the fluid parameters (including density, mass, pressure and temperature, etc.) and the transport distance within the facility.

[0019] In a variation of the invention that consists in the integration of (SC) and (ST) with heat exchangers integrated with an electrostatic filter and / or ioniser, known in the state of the art, the method of controlling the flow of fluids in a dispersed system occurs with simultaneous recuperation and filtration and / or ionisation. This allows the simultaneous use of (SC) and (ST) as single and bi-directional air filtration devices, thereby preventing the spread of contaminants and pathogens both in the flows between the interior and exterior and in the internal flows between the partitions of the facility.

[0020] The pressure differences generated in the pressure centres determine the direction and intensity (velocity) of the fluid flow between them (the rooms / air storage cells). This system allows the flows to be adaptive to both changing fluid conditions and parameters, ambient conditions and changes in expected operating parameters. Pressure separation of the facility from the environment, internal unsealing and adaptation to the individual layout of the facility (internal layout, volume and distance between rooms) are vital for the efficiency of the system. Adaptation to the individual layout of the facility - adaptive calibration - involves establishing the functional dependencies of the devices and then measuring the pressure distance between the individual points where the devices are located. The measurement is performed by transmitting a pressure signal, for example by raising and / or lowering the fluid pressure at point A and reading the measurement result at point B. For the sake of measurement, both the differences in signal reception time and intensity are taken into account. The pressure distance between points A and B will usually not equal between the same points in reverse order, i.e. B and A, due to the varied flow resistances involved. The pressure distance will also change if the fluid parameters change, e.g. its density (temperature) or mixture composition in the case of non-homogeneous fluids.

[0021] The solution according to the invention enables the function of pressure stations (SC) known in the state of the art to be performed by in-wall recuperation devices that provide a controlled exchange of fluids between the interior and exterior of the facility using flow control and balanced negative pressure / balanced positive pressure in the individual rooms / air storage cells of the facility. The solution according to the invention enables the function of the pushing (ST), known in the state of the art, to be performed by room fans that provide an increase in flow intensity. The solution according to the invention, through the use of devices in a distributed system in combination with an adaptive calibration algorithm, adapts the intensity of the pressure devices to the existing individual system within the facility (actual flow resistance that occurs in the facility) and controls the transport and pressure distribution of fluid masses, including air.

[0022] The solution according to the invention enables the measurement and monitoring of the tightness of the facility (alarm system for possible leakage), measuring the occurrence of spontaneous flows (for example, those resulting from the unsealing of the facility), measuring the occurrence of sectional flow resistance, determining the approximate location of the place of leakage or the place of failure of the system devices. The solution according to the invention also enables adjusting the pressure inside the isolated facility to the expected parameters, e.g. for the comfort of its use, and by integration with devices known in the state of the art, it enables providing air composition, air humidity and other parameters different from the standard ones, e.g. for ensuring enhanced growth of plants in urban farms, sustainability of storage of foodstuffs, sensitive articles, works of art, etc. The distributed system devices comprise pressure devices (SC) (for example, in-wall recuperators mounted in the outer wall of a facility) and pushing devices (ST) (for example, room fans or devices having a design such as in-wall recuperators mounted in the internal partitions of a facility, for example between individual rooms), and pressure sensors advantageously integrated (mounted within the enclosure) with the pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST).

[0023] The stations are connected within the facility in which they are mounted by means of communication known in the state of the art, e.g. wired or wireless WiFi, Bluetooth or any other communication and data transfer system known in the state of the art. Integration with pressure sensors enables adaptive calibration and subsequent synchronisation of station operation within the facility and responsive reactions to changing parameters of transported fluids.

[0024] In the solution according to the invention, the differences in the selection and number of devices result from the parameters of the individual rooms / storage cells for fluids and the expected dynamics of fluid transport between them. The minimum system for ensuring fluid transport consists of at least one pressure station (SC), one pressure sensor and a discharge duct (for example, a gravity ventilation duct).

[0025] Pressure stations (SCs) are installed in or near the external partitions of the facility (fagades) and allow fluid exchange between the interior and exterior of the building, while pushing stations (ST) are installed in the internal partitions of the facility or its open transport spaces. By pushing fluids unidirectionally or bidirectionally between the interior and exterior of an isolated facility, pressure stations (SC) determine the pressure level in that facility. By pushing fluids unidirectionally or bidirectionally between the interior partitions or in the open spaces of that facility, pushing stations (ST) influence the pressure level of the various pressure centres inside the facility.

[0026] The integration of pressure devices and pressure sensors ensures, through the algorithms used, adaptability to changing fluid and ambient conditions, and expansion regulation of the direction and intensity (velocity) of fluid flow within the facility by controlling the pressure in the pressure centres. While in operation, pressure devices (SC) and (ST) can reduce or increase the pressure in the pressure centres. This, through the phenomenon of expansion, determines the direction and intensity of fluid flow between these centres.

[0027] The preparation (1) of the facility for the use of the solution according to the invention consists in sealing the facility, in particular by closing the external doors and windows. This is related to an atempt to achieve the maximum possible external tightness of the facility. In case ducts for gravity ventilation are present, these must be eliminated by sealing. Alternatively, they can be used as exhaust and / or vacuum centres. The subsequent step consists in the technical launch (2) of the installed distributed devices, launching and confirming (3) their communication with the computer.

[0028] In order for the distributed device system to function in a manner according to the invention, adaptive calibration must take place. This is performed by introducing functional setings (4) known in the state of the art, appropriate to the operating patterns of the fluid that constitutes the atmosphere within the facility and the expectations with regards to the function of a given room / storage cell for fluids. Once this data has been entered, a pressure calibration is performed. This always takes place in the same manner, regardless of the internal layout of the facility. Depending on the type of facility (its size and the number and function of the rooms / air storage cells), the number of pressure devices used and their parameters will vary. The functional settings lead to balancing and optimising the design flows according to the expected patterns. To enter the functional settings (4), the user can use a functional settings template known in the state of the art or can manually enter the desired parameters for the individual devices. These parameters include the maximum unit capacity; recuperation efficiency; m3 / h exchange in standard operation; expected room positive pressure / negative pressure. The user can manually enter the intended negative pressure centres (gravity ventilation duct openings) to be used, together with their expected gravity airflow. Then, the confirmation of the flow balancing assumptions should be obtained.

[0029] The subsequent stage in the fluid flow control method according to the invention is to perform a leakage test (5) of the facility by: applying the procedure, known in the state of the art, related to entering the required pressure values, monitoring the pressure level, identifying and marking the gravity ventilation ducts and performing the measurement of the resistance characteristics. The functional settings (4) and the test of air tightness (5) can (from the point of view of the correct operation of the system) be conducted in any order. In the event of a negative (7) result of this test, the leakage (7a) must be located and the leakage points (7b) must be fixed / modified so as to guarantee an acceptable leakage level. Then the leakage test (5) should be repeated to obtain a positive (6) result. Once a positive (6) result of this test is obtained, the pressure calibration (8) starts.

[0030] Pressure sensors perform a vital measurement function during the calibration process and during the use of the system, as they are in charge of the measurement and monitoring function. Configuration involves establishing a grid of the actual functional connections of the distributed devices, taking into account the pressure distances between them. Once the pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST) have been installed in the individual air storage cells / rooms, the appropriate functional setting pattern should be selected or the settings must be set manually so that they are adequate to the function of the facility and the individual rooms / air storage cells. This stage is followed by a leakage test of the facility and by automatic calibration of the system. Calibration involves synchronising the pressure devices, whereby one pressure device emits a pressure signal while the other devices capture the signal, in a manner known in the state of the art.

[0031] The grid of functional connections of the pressure devices in the solution according to the invention will be established in a semi-automatic manner, either by selecting a suitable functional pattern and entering the parameters of the individual pressure devices, or by setting it manually by means of entering basic parameters for each pressure device, i.e. the designation of the location; the minimum and maximum performance of the device; the efficiency of the device; the expected exchange of m3 of air per hour and the expected level of balanced positive pressure / negative pressure of the pressure device in standard operation and the expected level of positive pressure / negative pressure in the room.

[0032] The functional settings are an attempt to establish the optimum and balanced design flows under standard operation conditions for the fluid in the facility.

[0033] Performing a leakage test of a facility involves performing a pressure test procedure known in the state of the art in order to investigate whether uncontrolled leakage occurs outside the facility. In the event of a negative test result, the leakage location should be identified and the facility should be sealed, following which the leakage test should be repeated. When performing the leakage test of a facility, in accordance with the state of the art, the planned pressure value should be entered, the pressure level should be monitored, potential gravity ventilation ducts should be identified and marked, and, if these ventilation ducts are intended for use as part of a distributed fluid flow control method, their resistance characteristics should be measured.

[0034] Calibration involves synchronising the pressure devices, whereby one pressure device emits a pressure signal while the other devices capture this signal, in a manner known in the state of the art, with the use of pressure sensors. The transmitter emits the pressure signal until the last of the receivers informs that it has received the signal or after a predetermined time has elapsed (the configuration of the emission time parameter depends on the fluid properties (8a - 8c). Each receiver (pressure sensor), while registering a pressure signal records this fact and notifies the computer. In this way, a map of receivers placed further and closer (pressure distances) to the sender is created. Once the transmission is over, the subsequent pressure device becomes the sender and the others become the receivers, and thus the procedure is repeated. Based on the pressure distance test, a grid model of the pressure connections between the individual pressure devices is created.

[0035] In pressure calibration, the pressure device number one transmits the pressure signal and the other pressure devices "listen". In this way, the sequence and timing of the recorded impulse is established. The pressure signal is emitted by the pressure device until all pressure devices receive the signal or until the fixed time has elapsed. In this way, a pressure distance map to be overlaid on the functional settings is created. This is the final stage of the adaptive calibration process. The system goes into standard mode (11) of continuous operation (10) and maintains this mode until an emergency occurs (12) or until another pressure calibration occurs (8) - as a result of cyclic verification and updating (14). The system operates continuously (10) in standard mode (11) or emergency mode (12) (in the event of an emergency). In a situation of leakage in the facility, the solution according to the invention can operate in emergency mode (13) - performing the set air / fluid operation pattern within the facility despite a confirmed leakage, which results in a deterioration of performance of the system.

[0036] Adaptive calibration consists in introducing functional settings (flow balancing and optimisation) and performing a pressure calibration of the devices that remain within the facility, and then establishing the operating mode of the devices, taking into account the actual pressure distances. Depending on the dynamics of the changes occurring in the ambient or the fluid characteristics, the pressure calibration must be repeated and can be performed automatically. In the event of changes in the function of the rooms / air storage cells, the functional settings of the device installed in a given room / air storage cells must be updated.

[0037] Adaptive calibration enables the creation of a grid of balanced functional and pressure connections of devices within a facility, regardless of the internal architecture of the facility, thereby remaining repeatable and independent of differences in architectural layout and facility structure.

[0038] In the case of larger buildings or distances within the facility, pushing stations (ST) are used, the function of which is performed by a pressure device installed in the internal partition of the facility, i.e. in a wall between two rooms or in an open space. In the system, the pushing station (ST) serves as any other pressure device equipped with a pressure sensor, as it operates in synchronisation with the pressure device of a given room.

[0039] For facilities exposed to contaminants and pathogens, it is advantageous to use devices known in the state of the art that combine recuperation and filtration functions, including the elimination of dangerous pathogens and contaminants.

[0040] The use of patterns that facilitate the introduction of settings and air operation patterns known in the state of the art (as used in duct distribution) in mixed-use facilities constitutes an open catalogue. These may include patterns for public offices and offices, workshops, warehouses, recreational facilities, culture, city farms, etc. The use of manual settings can offer a better adjustment of the air operation within the facility than the use of patterns. The manual implementation of functional settings requires a division of rooms into so-called "clean" rooms (operating in balanced positive pressure or positive pressure mode), i.e. rooms from which air can spread to the remaining rooms in the facility, and so-called "dirty" rooms (operating in balanced negative pressure or negative pressure mode) from which air should be removed from the facility rather than being allowed to spread to other parts of the facility, especially to "clean" rooms.

[0041] It is advantageous if the fluid transport control system also functions as a leakage alarm system (e.g. informing of rapid pressure drop / increase caused by the opening of a door or window of a facility) and also as a smoke extraction system and / or oxygen restriction system in the event of a fire or fire risk. If such a function is to be performed by the solution, control algorithms known in the state of the art must be used.

[0042] It is advantageous if the solution according to the invention at the same time performs the function of adapting the pressure inside the facility relative to its function, for example, to improve the comfort of persons who are particularly sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure. If such a function is to be performed by the solution, control algorithms known in the state of the art should be used.

[0043] It is advantageous if the solution according to the invention at the same time performs the function of recuperation and filtration of the air from pollutants and pathogens, for example by integrating pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST) with heat exchangers known in the state of the art integrated with an electrostatic filter and / or an ionizer.

[0044] The solution according to the invention enables a combination of flow control functions under standard use conditions, as well as ensures responsiveness in the event of special conditions including the use of the system for smoke extraction and oxygen supply control in case of fire, changing the flow directions when pathogens and hazardous substances are discovered in the air, or ensuring pressure-related comfort of the facility use.

[0045] The minimum system that ensures fluid transport consists of at least one pressure station (SC), one pressure sensor and a discharge duct (for example a gravity ventilation duct).

[0046] The solution according to the invention enables the use of other sensors known in the state of the art, e.g. humidity, VOC, PM10, PM2.5 sensors and suchlike, and responsive reaction to a change in desired parameters based on operating patterns and algorithms known in the state of the art. The solution according to the invention is shown in the attached algorithm:

[0047] - the algorithm in full and simplified version and in implementation examples non-limiting to the invention:

[0048] E x a m p l e 1

[0049] Method of adaptive calibration of pressure-measuring devices installed in a distributed system, in a house / apartment.

[0050] In a house constructed according to a construction method dating back to the 1980s, pressure stations (SC) are installed in the following rooms: SCI - living room with kitchenette, SC2 - bedroom 1, SC3 - bedroom 2, SC4 - bedroom 3. The function of the pressure stations, in this case, is performed by in-wall air recuperation devices, known in the state of the art, installed in the facade walls. Due to the short distances of air distribution, this system comes with no pushing station (ST). The method for controlling the fluid flow in the distributed system uses the existing vertical gravity ventilation ducts (so-called 'chimney' ducts) located in the kitchenette, toilet 1 (in the living area) and toilet 2 (in the bedroom area).

[0051] In order to apply the solution according to the invention, the rooms need to be properly prepared by closing the external doors and windows. The subsequent step is the launch (2) of the installed distributed devices, launching and confirming their communication with the computer (3). Once the SC's connectivity to the computer has been installed and confirmed (3), an adaptive calibration is performed, starting with the configuration of the functional settings (4). In order to facilitate the configuration of the functional settings (4), a "house / apartment" pattern that most closely matches the characteristics of the air operation patterns (transport / flow directions) known in the state of the art (used in duct distribution) is selected in the computer control panel. The individual pressure devices are marked and assigned to the individual rooms in which they are installed. Existing gravity ventilation ducts that indicate the expected gravity air flow parameters are entered and marked. According to the selected air operation pattern, all SCs work in continuous operation as balanced positive pressure centres (air intakes that supply the house with fresh air), thereby marking the locations of the gravity ventilation ducts as negative pressure centres (exhausts) where the exhaust air is removed from the house. The final stage of the configuration of functional settings (4) confirms the balance of design flows. These are assumed to be optimal / required. This is followed by a leakage test (5), together with a procedure aiming at identifying places where leaks occur and pressure localisation of the gravity ventilation ducts.

[0052] Under the conditions of all gravity ducts being closed, a leakage test procedure known in the state of the art is performed for the facility. The pressure identification of the gravity ventilation ducts is performed according to a method known in the state of the art for the identification of existing leakages. While applying pressure to the facility, only one gravity duct is 1 eft open. In the same way, an indirect measurement of the pressure distance of all subsequent SCs relative to the marked gravity flow duct is also conducted. This is repeated on the remaining gravity ducts, thus establishing the successively pressure-identified rooms toilet 1, toilet 2 and the kitchenette, together with their separate approximate resistance characteristics (pressure loss curve) known in the state of the art. The remaining rooms present in the functional pattern, such as the garage, laundry room, gym and sauna, are omitted as they do not appear in the actual functional layout of the facility. Once the result of this test is positive (6), the pressure calibration starts. An automatic pressure calibration (8) is conducted under the open conditions (planned for use) of the gravity ventilation ducts. Subsequent pressure devices act as transmitters of the pressure signal, while other pressure devices equipped with pressure sensors “listen” and report the moment when they receive the signal, thus establishing the pressure distances from the transmitter (8a - 8c). Once the pressure distance map has been established, the resulting parameters are overlaid on the functional setting parameters, thus completing the adaptive calibration process (9). The system assumes continuous operation (10) in the standard mode (11).

[0053] The pressure devices located in the bedrooms and the living room operate in balanced positive pressure mode, exchanging the exhaust air and supplying fresh air to the house. The surplus air intensity of the air introduced by these devices into the facility relative to the discharged air (balanced positive pressure), set in accordance with the operating scheme, takes into account the airflow resistance characteristics of the individual sections of its operation. The air flows according to a controlled phenomenon of expansion towards the gravity ducts that act as the exhaust. These ducts allow the used air to be discharged in accordance with their determined resistance characteristics.

[0054] E x a m p l e 2

[0055] A method of fluid flow control and adaptive calibration according to the invention in a house / apartment, in case of an emergency.

[0056] A method of adaptive calibration and fluid flow control in a distributed system according to Example 1, with the difference being the occurrence of an emergency such as the detection of carbon monoxide (CO) in the air in one of the rooms. A CO detector integrated into the pressure-measuring device system transmits a message to a computer, which, according to an algorithm known in the state of the art for such circumstances, activates the alarm system, at the same time making changes to the established continuous air operation model of the facility. The emergency mode algorithm known in the state of the art for the occurring circumstances consists in introducing an intense negative pressure in the room where the danger was detected. This effect was achieved by activating the maximum exhaust of air from the room through a pressure station installed in the room, while at the same time intensifying the positive air pressure in the rooms located in its surroundings. The pattern of standard operation of air (11) controlled by the fluid flow in the distributed system is altered so as to respond to the occurrence of the emergency (12) and to counteract the threat and its spread until the risk is eliminated.

[0057] The method for controlling the fluid flow in the distributed system may include several different settings for emergency operation modes (12) from an infinite catalogue intended for the occurrence of specific situations; for instance, it allows one of the bedrooms to be designated for an isolation room in which the sick person resides, leading to changes in the direction and dynamics of the airflow preventing the risk of spreading pathogens. To achieve this effect, for the duration of the sick person's convalescence, a designated room will remain in the operating characteristics of balanced negative pressure airflow while increasing the balanced positive pressure of the surrounding rooms.

[0058] E x a m p l e 3

[0059] The method of control of fluid flow in a distributed system of functionally connected and interconnected pressure-measuring devices installed in a hospital / medical facility and the method of the adaptive calibration thereof is based on the introduction of a pattern corresponding to the characteristics of operating patterns, known in the state of the art, used in duct air distributions in this type of facility, with the difference being that this method operates without the use of these ducts. A system of distributed pressure devices in the form of pressure stations (SC) and pushing stations (ST), using the phenomenon of expansion in a closed system following an adaptive calibration, enables the air in the facility to work according to the established operation pattern, i.e. the expected flow directions and velocities. The functional setting pattern used during adaptive calibration takes into account separate common areas, patient rooms, waiting rooms, doctors' rooms, administration and nurses' offices, storerooms, toilets, and specialised areas such as operating theatres and treatment rooms. The user is provided with an option of marking any number (corresponding to the actual situation) of installed devices with the corresponding function categories of rooms in which the device is physically installed. Due to the size of the facility, pushing stations (ST) are used in the internal partitioning and longer air conveying / airflow sections, while electrostatic filtering devices known in the state of the art are used for the elimination of contaminants, especially pathogens. In a facility where pathogens and epidemiological risks are likely to occur, it is sensible to use filtration (for example, electrostatic one) in both directions of airflow through the SC and ST (supply and extract). Pressure stations (SC) installed in facade walls, while remaining integrated with heat exchangers, known in the state of the art, integrated with an electrostatic filter and / or ioniser in effect simultaneously recuperate the air and clean the air bi-directionally (relative to air intake and exhaust), removing the pollutants and pathogens contained in it. Similarly, pushing stations (ST) installed in the hospital's internal partitioning, while remaining integrated with an electrostatic filter and / or an ioniser, in effect simultaneously recuperate the air and clean it bi-directionally, removing the pollutants and pathogens contained in it. Owing to the use of STs in the internal partitions, the solution also enables treating certain rooms, e.g. administration and storage rooms, as transitory rooms that supply the communication routes. The pattern (airflow diagram) also enables the designating of completely separated zones such as operating and treatment rooms. This allows for adapting the facility's air operation to the applicable legal standards. It also anticipates emergencies, both of a general nature (e.g. the system's response in the event of fire and smoke) and ones closely related to the specific medical activities performed in the facility (e.g. the occurrence of an epidemiological threat and the need for quarantine).

[0060] E x a m p l e 4

[0061] The method of controlling the fluid flow in a distributed system of functionally connected and interconnected pressure-measuring devices installed in a kindergarten / school and the method of an adaptive calibration thereof is based on the introduction of a pattern corresponding to the characteristics of operating patterns, known in the state of the art, used in duct air distributions in this type of facility, with the difference that being that this mode operates without the use of these ducts.

[0062] The system of distributed pressure devices, following an adaptive calibration, enables the air in the facility to work according to the established operation pattern, i.e. the expected directions and velocity of the mass flow. The operating mode pattern takes into account communal areas that exist separately (e.g. changing rooms), children's areas / classrooms, toilets, administration and teachers' rooms, storage, specialist laboratories, potential medical / nursing room, gymnasium, and changing rooms. The pattern takes into account the possible presence of gravity ventilation ducts and their impact on air distribution. The pattern, owing to the use of ST in the internal partitions, enables treating some rooms, e.g. administrative and storage rooms, as transitory rooms that supply communication routes. The air operation pattern assumes the possibility of using filtering devices known in the state of the art (e.g. electrostatic) and eliminating contaminants, especially pathogens. It also allows for the adaption of the air exchange requirements of the gymnasium to the varying demands resulting from physical and recreational activities. This enables the adaption of the air operation in the facility to the legal standards in force. It also provides for the occurrence of emergencies both of a general nature (e.g. dealing with the occurrence of fire and smoke through the activation of the procedure of smoke removal by means of evacuation routes) and strictly related to the specific nature of the educational activities performed in the facility.

[0063] E x a m p l e 5

[0064] A method of controlling the flow of fluids in a distributed system of functionally connected and interconnected pressure-measuring devices and an adaptive calibration thereof, with manual input of parameters for each pressure device.

[0065] In a multifunctional building consisting of the following premises: commercial premises (hairdressing salon), public premises (waiting room), warehouses, the following are installed: pressure stations (SC): SCI - hairdressing salon, SC2 - toilet, SC3 waiting room, SC4 - storage room 1, SC5 - storage room 2, STI - storage room. 2. The function of the pressure stations is performed in this case by in-wall recuperative devices known in the state of the art. A pushing station 1 (ST) was located in the internal partition between storage 2 and the corridor.

[0066] In order to use the solution according to the invention, the (1) rooms have to be prepared accordingly by closing the external doors and windows. The subsequent step consists in activating (2) the installed distributed devices, launching and confirming their communication with the computer (3). Once the communication (SC) and (ST) with the computer have been launched and confirmed, an adaptive calibration is conducted, starting with the manual configuration of the functional settings (4). For this purpose, a manual mode is selected on the computer control panel to allow individual setting of the air operation pattern (transport / flow directions). The individual pressure devices are marked and assigned to the individual rooms in which they are installed. The expected flow rates are entered manually. The commercial premises (hairdressing salon) and the toilet room are marked as so-called "dirty" rooms (balanced vacuum operation), according to their function specifications, i.e. so that the air from these rooms is not spread to the rest of the facility. The public area (waiting room) and the storage rooms are designated as “clean” rooms (operating in balanced positive pressure mode), from which air can be spread to the remaining parts of the facility. A pushing station ST 1 mounted in the partition wall discharges air from storage room 2 to the corridor supporting the use of storage room 2 as a transitory room. The manual functional settings are concluded by confirming the parameters entered as optimal and expected, thus obtaining confirmation of the balancing of the functional connections of airflows.

[0067] Subsequently, a leakage test (5) is performed, along with a procedure to identify the locations of leakages. Upon receiving a negative result of this test (7), the leakage location is identified (7a), the leakage location is removed (7b) and the leakage test (5) is performed again, followed by launching the pressure calibration (8). After a successful leakage test (5) and a positive (6) result of this test, a pressure calibration (8) is conducted and the pressure distances of all subsequent SCs and STs relative to each other are measured.

[0068] The measurement of the pressure distances in combination with the function setting of the devices allows for the establishing of a grid of the actual function-pressure relationships of the distributed devices.

[0069] The manually entered functional settings are then automatically combined with the pressure calibration (measurement of pressure distances) performed (9) and the pressure distance map obtained, resulting in the actual functional-pressure relationships of the distributed devices. This completes the adaptive calibration procedure. The devices operate in continuous operation

[0070] (10) in the standard mode (11). The SC pressure devices placed in the storage rooms and waiting areas operate in balanced positive pressure mode, exchanging the used air and acting as air intakes to supply the building with fresh air. The pushing station (ST) conveys air from warehouse 2 to the waiting area, facilitating the operation of a warehouse as a transitory room. The leakage occurring between the corridor and the hairdressing salon and the corridor and the toilet (an undercut door was used to facilitate the airflow) allows airflows from the corridor to the salon and from the corridor to the toilet. The balanced negative pressure level in the toilet and the hairdressing salon corresponds to the balanced positive pressure of the other SC. The air flows according to a controlled phenomenon of expansion in the direction and with the dynamics expected according to the continuous operation pattern (10) in the standard mode

[0071] (11).

Claims

Patent claims1. A method of controlling fluid flow in a distributed system with the use of functionally integrated and interconnected pressure-measuring devices with the use of differential pressures, device calibrations, algorithms, pressure-measuring devices and pushing devices, characterised in that the pressure sensors receive pressure signals from each pressure station (SC), thereby establishing pressure distances at individual sections, and the functionally integrated pressure devices, using a system of sensors and an expansion phenomenon, regulate the direction and intensity (velocity) of the fluid flow within the facility enabling the adaptation of the flows to changing conditions and the expected quality / parameters of the airflow.

2. A method for adaptive calibration of pressure-measuring devices with the use of differential pressure, device calibrations, algorithms, pressure devices and pushing devices, characterised in that it consists in establishing pressure distances of distributed devices and connecting them to a grid of functional relationships of distributed devices taking into account the pressure distances between them by transmitting a pressure signal between a transmitter in the form of a pressure device and a receiver in the form of a pressure sensor; whereby the calibration is performed by the input of the functional settings known in the state of the art appropriate to the expectations for a given room and correlating this with the pressure calibration (the measurement of pressure distances), thereby obtaining the actual pressure-functional connections of the distributed devices.

3. A method of calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claim 2, with the following characteristics: once the pressure devices (SC) and pushing stations (ST) are installed in the individual rooms, the appropriate functional setting scheme is selected or manual settings of the fluid, including air, operating pattern are introduced, being adequate to the function of the facility and the individual rooms / air storage cells.

4. A method of calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claim 2, with the following characteristics: once pressure devices (SC) and pushing stations (ST) are installed in individual partitions, the appropriate functional setting pattern is selected or manual setting of fluid, including air, operation patterns adequate to the functions of the facility and individual rooms / air storage cells is performed.

5. A method for calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claims 2 or 3 and 4, characterised in that it consists in synchronising the pressure devices, whereby one pressuredevice emits a pressure signal while the other devices capture the signal wirelessly, in a manner known in the state of the art, using pressure sensors; whereby the transmitter emits a pressure signal until the last of the receivers reports the fact of having received the signal or until a predetermined time has elapsed; whereby each receiver, at the time the pressure signal is recorded, signals this fact to the sender and / or to a computer, depending on where the pressure distance record is made, thereby taking into account both the order in which the pressure signal is received and the intensity of this signal.

6. A method for calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claims 2 or 3, and 4 or 5, characterised in that once the transmission by a given pressure device is over, another pressure device becomes the sender and the others become the receivers, and the procedure is repeated.

7. A method for calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claims 2 or 3 and either 4 or 5 or 6, characterised in that the sensor integrated with the pressure-measuring device system transmits a message concerning the occurrence of an emergency advantageously to a computer which, according to an algorithm known in the state of the art, is programmed for such circumstances; it forces a change in the direction of fluid flow relative to the standard operating mode established in the facility and at the same time activates a warning mode adequate to the occurring hazard.

8. A method for calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claims 2 or 3 and either 4 or 5 or 6 or 7, characterised in that: the pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced vacuum mode perform the function of the exhaust in the air intake mode in the air operation pattern, whereas the pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced positive pressure mode perform the function of the exhaust in the air operation pattern.

9. A method for the calibration of pressure-measuring devices according to claims 2 or 3 and either 4 or 5 or 6 or 7 or 8, characterised in that the vacuum level generated by the pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced vacuum mode corresponds to the positive pressure level generated by the pressure stations (SC) operating in balanced positive pressure mode.

Images