Methods and systems for heating and cooling

Abstract

Provided herein are methods and systems for heating or cooling. The methods and systems may comprise an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a refrigerant unit, and a fluid flow unit. The indoor unit may be coupled to the outdoor unit through a wall. The refrigerant system may comprise a refrigerant working fluid, which may comprise carbon dioxide. The fluid flow unit may comprise at least two plenums, and a first plenum of said at least two plenums may comprise a first airfoil.

Description

[0001] SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HEATING AND COOLING

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE

[0003] [1] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 638.920, filed April 25, 2024, which application is incorporated herein by referehynce.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] [2] Heating and cooling systems may be used in enclosures, such as homes or office buildings, to heat and cool air. For example, a heating or cooling system may be used to heat or cool an enclosure to a preferred temperature. There exists a need for heating and cooling systems that meet the requirements of their respective enclosures while also addressing environmental, installation, efficiency, and safety concerns.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] [3] Disclosed herein are methods and systems for heating and cooling systems that provide lower environmental impacts, more affordable installation, higher energy efficiency, and improved safety outcomes.

[0008] [4] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a heating or cooling system. In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises an indoor unit. In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises an outdoor unit. In some cases, the indoor unit is coupled to the outdoor unit through a wall. In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises a refrigerant unit. In some cases, the refrigerant system comprises a refrigerant working fluid. In some cases, the refrigerant working fluid comprises carbon dioxide. In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises a fluid flow unit. In some cases, the fluid flow unit comprises at least two plenums. In some cases, a first plenum of the at least two plenums comprises a first airfoil.

[0009] [5] In some cases, the refrigerant unit further comprises a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, or at least one heat exchanger. In some cases, a second plenum of the at least two plenums comprises a second airfoil. In some cases, the first plenum of the at least two plenums is configured direct a fluid to a location outside the indoor unit. In some cases, the first plenum of the at least two plenums is vertically oriented. In some cases, each of the at least two plenums is vertically oriented. In some cases, each of the at least two plenums comprises at least one vent. In some cases, the first airfoil is configured to direct a first fluid flow through the at least one vent comprised in the first plenum. In some cases, the first fluid flow has a first direction. In some cases, the second airfoil is configured to direct a second fluid flow through the at least one vent comprised in the second plenum. In some cases, the second fluid flow has a second direction. In some cases, the first fluid flow is perpendicular to the second fluid flow.

[0010] [6] In some cases, the fluid flow unit further comprises an impeller. In some cases, the impeller is coupled to the at least two plenums. In some cases, the fluid flow unit further comprises a louver. In some cases, the louver is configured to direct a fluid from the impeller to the first plenum of the at least two plenums. In some cases, the louver is configured to direct the fluid from the impeller to the at least two plenums. In some cases, the impeller and the louver are configured to adjust a first strength and a first speed of the first fluid flow. In some cases, the impeller and the louver are configured to adjust a second strength and a second speed of the second fluid flow. In some cases, the impeller and the louver are configured to adjust the first strength, the first speed, the second strength, and the second speed such that the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow provide a resultant fluid flow. In some cases, the resultant fluid flow is parallel to the first direction, parallel to the second direction, or between the first direction and the second direction.

[0011] [7] In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises a hydronics system (e.g., hydronic network). In some cases, the hydronics system further comprises a hydronics working fluid, a hydronics fluid pump, or a hydronics fluid line.

[0012] [8] In some cases, the hydronics system comprises a manifold. In some cases, the manifold is configured to selectively direct movement of the hydronics working fluid through the hydronics fluid line. In some cases, the hydronics working fluid comprises water, glycol, or a water-glycol mixture. In some cases, the fluid pump is coupled to the hydronics fluid line. In some cases, the hydronics fluid pump is configured to control movement of the hydronics working fluid through the hydronics fluid line. In some cases, the at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the refrigerant unit and the hydronics unit. In some cases, the at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the refrigerant unit and the fluid flow unit. In some cases, the at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the hydronics unit and the fluid flow unit.

[0013] [9] In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises one or members selected from a group consisting of: an enthalpy recovery ventilator (ERV), a filter, an impulse, an external remote, a self-installation system, and a power unit. In some cases, the heating or cooling system further comprises a tracking unit or a controller unit. In some cases, the controller unit is configured to articulate the louver based on input from the tracking unit. In some cases, the controller unit is configured to modulate the impeller based on input from the tracking unit. In some cases, the controller unit is configured to modulate a temperature of the resultant fluid flow based on input from the tracking unit.

[0010] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a system. In some cases, the system comprises a plenum assembly. In some cases, the system comprises a tracking unit operatively coupled to the plenum assembly. In some cases, the tracking unit is configured to track a location of a user within the enclosure. In some cases, the plenum assembly is configured to direct a fluid to the location of the user. In some cases, the plenum assembly is mounted on a wall of an enclosure. In some cases, the enclosure comprises an interior space. In some cases, the location of the user within the enclosure changes when the user moves within the enclosure. In some cases, the fluid has a fluid temperature, a fluid flow rate, and a fluid flow direction. In some cases, the system is configured to control one or more of the temperature, the flow rate, and the flow direction to modulate a temperature of the user when the fluid reaches the location of the user.

[0014]

[0011] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of installing an air conditioning unit. In some cases, the method comprises providing the air conditioning unit. In some cases, the air conditioning unit comprises a refrigerant cycle, a test fluid, and a refrigerant working fluid. In some cases, the method further comprises pressurizing the refrigerant cycle with the test fluid comprised in the pressurized vessel. In some cases, the method further comprises testing the refrigerant cycle for nominal operation parameters. In some cases, the method further comprises evacuating the test fluid from the refrigerant cycle. In some cases, the method further comprises pressurizing the refrigerant cycle with the refrigerant working fluid comprised in the pressurized vessel.

[0015]

[0012] In some cases, the test fluid is provided in a pressurized vessel. In some cases, the refrigerant working fluid is provided in a pressurized vessel. In some cases, the refrigerant working fluid comprises carbon dioxide. In some cases, the nominal operation parameters comprise a refrigerant working fluid temperature, a refrigerant working fluid pressure, or a refrigerant working fluid flow rate. In some cases, the method further comprises creating an opening in a wall. In some cases, the wall comprises an interior face and an exterior face. In some cases, the method further comprises attaching an indoor mounting plate to the interior face and attaching an outdoor mounting plate to the exterior face. In some cases, the method further comprises securing the indoor assembly to the indoor mounting plate and securing the outdoor assembly to the outdoor mounting plate. In some cases, the method further comprises coupling the indoor unit to the outdoor unit between the indoor mounting plate and the outdoor mounting plate. In some cases, the air conditioning unit further comprises ahydronics cycle or a hydronics working fluid. In some cases, the method further comprises charging the hydronics cycle with the hydronics working fluid.

[0013] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0016] INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0017]

[0014] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0018] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019]

[0015] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also “Figure'’ and “FIG.” herein), of which:

[0020]

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a heating or cooling system that may heat and cool various working fluids or air, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0021]

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, which are coupled together through a wall, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0022]

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a system comprising multiple indoor and outdoor units, each comprising a refrigerant unit, and each connected to the system by a hydronics unit, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0023]

[0019] FIGs. 4A-C illustrate an example of fluid flow through a double-plenum assembly, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0024]

[0020] FIGs. 5A-I illustrate examples of fluid flow through the indoor unit, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0025]

[0021] FIGs. 6A-C demonstrate installation of the system described herein in residential buildings, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0026]

[0022] FIGs. 7A-B illustrate an example of an alternative configuration of the system components comprising a unified Packaged Terminal Heat Pump (PTHP) design that can be comprised in an existing Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) sleeve, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0023] FIGs. 8A-B illustrate an example of an alternative configuration of the system components comprising a unified Packaged Terminal Heat Pump (PTHP) design that can be comprised in an existing Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) sleeve, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0027]

[0024] FIGs. 9A-E illustrate examples of control interfaces for the system described herein: FIG. 9A demonstrates a desktop or web view, FIG. 9B demonstrates a mobile app, FIG. 9C demonstrates a physical controller, FIGs. 9D-E demonstrate on-device controls interfaces for an indoor unit, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0028]

[0025] FIG. 10 illustrates a components break down of the PTHP configuration described in FIGs. 8A-B, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0029]

[0026] FIGs. 11A-E illustrate maintenance and design features of the PTHP configuration described in FIGs. 8A-B: FIG. 1 1A demonstrates accessibility of filters comprised in the PTHP configuration, FIG. 1 IB demonstrates modular electronics and an ERV which may be comprised in the PTHP configuration, FIG. 11C demonstrates removability capabilities of the PTHP configuration, FIG. 1 ID demonstrates a condensation pump and an atomizer which may be comprised in the PTHP configuration, FIG. HE demonstrates customizable interior and exterior panels which may be comprised in the PTHP configuration, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0030]

[0027] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a system diagram in a cold outdoor environment, where a central water line is maintained at a ‘"goldilocks’7temperature (e.g., 20-30°C), per one or more embodiments herein;

[0031]

[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a system diagram in a hot outdoor environment, where simultaneous heating and cooling is performed, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0032]

[0029] FIG. 14A illustrates an example of an indoor unit, and FIG. 14B illustrates an example of a schematic of a coupled unit, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0033]

[0030] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of athermal grid system in a residential building, comprising w ater lines, a heat pump (e.g., heat pump unit (HPU)), an indoor unit (IDU), an outdoor unit (ODU), and peripheral system components (e.g., appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines, drying machines, water heaters, solar panels, roof panels, etc.), per one or more embodiments herein;

[0034]

[0031] FIGs. 16A-E illustrate netw ork topologies which depict functions of the hydronics system, per one or more embodiments herein;

[0035]

[0032] FIGs. 17A-D illustrate examples of fan coil units which may be outdoor or indoor fan coils, which may comprise varied sizes, footprints, protrusions off a wall or recession into a wall. air flow methods (crossflow, axial, centrifugal) based on structural, architectural, electrical, or environmental needs (e.g., noise), per one or more embodiments herein;

[0036]

[0033] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a schematic of a thermal grid system similar to the system described in FIG. 15, per one or more embodiments herein; and

[0037]

[0034] FIG. 19A illustrates how at least two coupled units may be coupled by the hydronics system, which may comprise a manifold, and FIG. 19B illustrates an example of a manifold along with example port configurations generated by the manifold, per one or more embodiments herein.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039]

[0035] While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed.

[0040]

[0036] As used herein any reference to ‘’one embodiment” or '‘an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0041]

[0037] Some embodiments may be described using the expression “coupled” and “connected” along with their derivatives. For example, some embodiments may be described using the term “coupled” to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact. The term “coupled,” however, may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still co-operate or interact with each other. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0042]

[0038] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising.” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary7, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or Bis satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0043]

[0039] In addition, use of the “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the claimed invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0044]

[0040] The terms “heat pump." “exchanger,’’ or “heat exchanger,” as used herein, generally refer a device that facilitates the transfer of heat energy (e.g., between indoor air and outdoor air or between two fluids).

[0045]

[0041] The present disclosure provides methods and systems for heating or cooling. Such methods and systems may enable efficient and rapid heating and / or cooling in vanous contexts, such as heating and / or cooling of an enclosure (e.g., home, office, etc.).

[0046]

[0042] Heating or cooling systems may be used to modulate air temperature, humidity7, or purity of air in an enclosure. Systems utilized to heat or cool an enclosure, like a house, apartment, office, or other structure, may be centralized or decentralized. In some cases, a ductless system may be used to heat or cool a structure. Ductless systems may modulate the temperature in different zones, or rooms, of a structure. Ductless temperature management may occur in a decentralized manner. Ductless systems may utilize temperature differentials between zones in a structure to modulate the temperature in specific zones.

[0047]

[0043] Heat pumps lose efficiency when the temperature delta is large between the indoor and outdoor environment, as the compressor needs to work harder at a higher pressure or temperature differential. This means heat pumps are less efficient in extreme climate events and the peaks of summer and winter. Heat pumps may be networked together at a building and district level.

[0048]

[0044] Many networked heat pump systems comprise a central water line that is maintained at some efficient “goldilocks” temperature (e.g., 20-30°C). Generally, one large HVAC unit (industrial boiler or water chiller) may be engaged to maintain the water loop at this goldilocks temperature (FIG. 12). Then, heat pumps that are connected to the central line utilize the goldilocks temperature water to generate an additional heating or cooling differential for their individual needs. This system can be more effective than having the heat pumps run separately, as the large central system can efficiently supply a large amount of the general load (-70%) and the smaller units can operate at a low temperature delta from the central line rather than the very hot / cold outdoors.

[0049]

[0045] In cases where simultaneous heating and cooling is required, the systems that are opposing the general load of a system actually contribute back into the central loop (FIG. 13). An example of this is the diagram below, where hot water is always needed even when it is hot outdoors. While many of the systems are busy air conditioning the rooms (heating up the central loop) there are sometimes heat pumps that operate in the opposite mode (cooling down the central loop in exchange for heating up domestic water) that assist in maintaining the central loop temperature. This system is useful for buildings with simultaneous heating and cooling needs such as rooms with high solar gain that require cooling while some rooms need hearing.

[0050]

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates the heating or cooling system 100. In some cases, the heating or cooling system 100 may be a ductless system. The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise zones (e.g., enclosures or rooms) or sub-zones (e.g., areas within an enclosure or room). The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise a refrigerant unit, a hydronics unit, a fluid flow unit, a tracking unit, a power unit, a controller unit, and / or an external remote (e.g., system components).

[0051]

[0047] The heating or cooling system 100 may generate or remove heat in a zone via a refrigerant unit (e.g., refrigerant system or refrigerant cycle). The refrigerant unit may comprise a reversible heat pump.

[0052]

[0048] Some refrigeration systems may contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases due to leaking refrigerants, like hydrofluorocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons. Carbon dioxide (CO2) may be used as an alternative refrigerant with a lower global warming impact than traditional refrigerants. CO2 refrigerants may be non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-corrosive to copper or brass. CO2 refrigerants may operate under high-pressure conditions. The refrigerant working fluid may comprise CO2, propane, isobutane, and / or a natural refrigerant. The refrigerant working fluid may comprise R744, R290, and / or R600A. The refrigerant working fluid may comprise R32, R1234F, R454B, and / or a synthetic refrigerant.

[0053]

[0049] The reversible heat pump may comprise a refrigerant working fluid, a refrigerant liquid line 110, a refrigerant vapor line 111, a compressor 112, a condenser, an evaporator, a reversing valve 1 13, and / or at least one heat exchanger 1 14. One or both of the refrigerant liquid line 1 10 and the refrigerant vapor line 111 may withstand high pressure conditions. One or both of the refrigerant liquid line 110 and the refrigerant vapor line 111 may comprise aluminum, copper, and / or steel. The refrigerant liquid line 110 may have an external diameter of about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant liquid line 110 may have an outer diameter greater than or equal to about 1 / 8, 1 / 4, 3 / 8, or 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant liquid line 110 may have an outer diameter less than or equal to about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant liquid line 110 may have an outer diameter between two values described herein, for example between about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant vapor line 111 may have an external diameter of about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant vapor line 111 may have an outer diameter greater than or equal to about 1 / 8, 1 / 4, 3 / 8, or 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant vapor line 111 may have an outer diameter less than or equal to about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. The refrigerant vapor line 111 may have an outer diameter between two values described herein, for example between about 1 / 8 inch to about 1 / 2 inch.

[0050] The compressor 112 may circulate the refrigerant working fluid. The compressor 112 may mechanically compress the refrigerant working fluid. The compressor 112 may convert the refrigerant working fluid from a low temperature, low pressure liquid state to a high temperature, high pressure vapor or gas state.

[0054]

[0051] The condenser may dissipate heat from the refrigerant working fluid. The condenser maybe a gas cooler. A gas cooler may be utilized when the refrigerant working fluid is transcritical. The condenser may convert the refrigerant working fluid from a high temperature, high pressure gas state to a high temperature, high pressure liquid state. The evaporator may absorb heat into the refrigerant working fluid. The evaporator may convert the refrigerant working fluid from a high temperature, high pressure liquid state to a high temperature, high pressure gas state.

[0055]

[0052] The reversing valve 113 may direct or reverse the flow of the refrigerant working fluid through the refrigerant unit. When the reversing valve 113 reverses the flow of the refrigerant working fluid, the condenser may act as an evaporator and the evaporator may act as a condenser. The expansion valve 114 may remove pressure from the refrigerant working fluid. The expansion valve 114 may convert the refrigerant working fluid from a liquid state to a gas state. The at least one heat exchanger 114 may transfer heat between the refrigerant system, the hydronics system, and / or the fluid flow system, as described herein.

[0056]

[0053] The heating or cooling system 100 may exchange heat between zones via a hydronics unit (e.g. hydronics system or hydronics cycle). The hydronics unit may comprise a manifold 120, a hydronics working fluid, a hydronics fluid pump 121. a hydronics fluid line, and / or at least one exchanger 1 14. The exchanger 1 14 may be a heat exchanger. The exchanger 1 14 may be a brazed plate heat exchanger. The hydronics unit may transfer heat between zones that is passively generated by temperature differentials. The temperature differentials may be between the temperatures of individual zones or between the exterior and interior of the structure. The hydronics unit may transfer heat between zones that is actively generated by the refrigerant unit.

[0057]

[0054] The hydronics system may comprise a manifold 120 (e.g., hydromanifold), which may be a dynamic smart manifold. The manifold 120 may be configured to selectively direct movement of the hydronics working fluid through the hydronics fluid line (e.g., in a loop configuration), as further demonstrated in FIG. 19. The manifold 120 may comprise an actuating valve. The manifold 120 may facilitate system components or devices to interface with the thermal network comprised in the indoor unit, outdoor unit, and reversible heat pump unit. The manifold 120 may alter loop configurations of the hydronics working fluid. The actuating valve may comprise multiple valve positions in a single form factor (as compared to a pipe-based valving system). Thus, the actuating valve may comprise a smaller form factor and number of input and output hydronic ports than a pipe-based valving system.

[0055] The manifold 120 may be configured in many-to-many configurations. The manifold 120 may comprise varied combinations of mechanisms and port connection configurations.

[0058]

[0056] The dynamic manifold may be directed by the controller. The manifold may be governed by a control algorithm to adjust the flow loop for optimal performance based on system or user needs. The hydronics working fluid may comprise water, glycol, propanediol, propylene glycol, and / or ethylene glycol. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may operate on a voltage of about 10 to about 20. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may operate on a voltage greater than or equal to about 10 to about 20. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may operate on a voltage less than or equal to about 10 to about 20. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may operate on a voltage between two values described herein, for example between about 10 to about 20. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may be configured to control movement of the hydronics working fluid through the hydronics fluid line. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may be a dynamic pump or a positive displacement pump. The hydronics fluid pump 121 may comprise a filter.

[0059]

[0057] The hydronics fluid line may be flexible, easy to install, not rigid, and / or insulated. The hydronics fluid line may comprise rubber or plastic. The hydronics fluid line may comprise a hose, at least two hoses, and / or a metal sleeve. The hydronics fluid line may comprise a data cable. The hydronics fluid line may be surrounded by an insulation layer. The hydronics fluid line may have an outer diameter of about 5mm to about 40mm. The hydronics fluid line may have an outer diameter greater than or equal to about 5mm to about 40mm. The hydronics fluid line may have an outer diameter less than or equal to about 5mm to about 40mm. The hydronics fluid line may have an outer diameter between two values described herein, for example between about 5mm to about 40mm. The hydronics fluid line may have a wall thickness of about 0.1mm to about 10mm. The hydronics fluid line may have a wall thickness greater than or equal to about 0. 1mm to about 10mm. The hydronics fluid line may have a wall thickness less than or equal to about 0. 1mm to about 10mm. The hydronics fluid line may have a wall thickness between two values described herein, for example between about 0.1mm to about 10mm. The insulation layer may have a wall thickness of about 2mm to about 20mm. The insulation layer may have a wall thickness greater than or equal to about 2mm to about 20mm. The insulation layer may have a wall thickness less than or equal to about 2mm to about 20mm. The insulation layer may have a wall thickness between two values described herein, for example between about 2mm to about 20mm.

[0060]

[0058] The hydronics fluid line may comprise at least two central lines (FIG. 15). The hydronics fluid line may comprise a desired line. The hydronics fluid line may comprise a waste line. The desired line may distribute the desired temperature load across the heating and cooling system 100. In the summer, the desired temperature load is generally cooling (cold water) and in the winter the desired temperature load is generally heating (hot water). The desired line may facilitate any indoor unit within the heating and cooling system 100 to received desired energy from any heat pump. The desired line may facilitate multiple indoor units to work in series, regardless of the number heat pumps available. The desired line may facilitate multiple heat pumps to combine refrigeration capacity in a parallel format. The desired line may facilitate smaller devices that do not have a heat pump cycle built into them (e.g., a refrigerator) to receive cooling capacity from an outdoor unit, removing the traditional refrigeration components that exist in an enclosure and allowing for more storage space and unique geometries.

[0061]

[0059] The waste line may dissipate waste from the heat pumps into the various outdoor units and provides an interface for non-heat pump waste dissipation methods such as geothermal. The goal of the waste line is to be at a neutral temperature to reduce lift for all heat pumps operating on the waste line. The closer this line is to a neutral or even desired temperature, the higher COP all heat pumps connected to the waste line will operate at.

[0062]

[0060] The waste line temperature may vary' between a low entropy state (pure waste) and a medium temperature neutral state that collectively reduces the lift of the heat pumps across the cascade system.

[0063]

[0061] In cases involving simultaneous reutilization of waste (i.e., a water heater in the summer), the waste line is temporarily kept in a low entropy waste state. Prioritizing the waste compacting by the heat pumps and not engaging the outdoor units responsible for waste removal or by engaging a thermal battery that has stored low entropy waste prior may facilitate reutilization. The use of this low entropy waste in a hydronic cascade may significantly reduce the lift of another heat pump working in the opposite direction, where the waste of one system is the desired heat of another.

[0064]

[0062] When low entropy waste is not needed or an additional thermal battery has been sufficiently charged, the heating and cooling system 100 may transition to a waste reduction state which focuses on pushing the waste line temperature as close to desired as possible.

[0065]

[0063] Informed by telemetry7, occupancy, and building data, the hydronics system and the manifold 120 may autonomously expel or absorb heat between the central line and the room. With additional connections, the manifold 120 may facilitate simultaneous air conditioning and domestic hot water production. The heating and cooling system may comprise a thermodynamic grid that hydronically networks heating and cooling needs of a building at a district level by linking HVAC, hot water systems, data centers, etc.

[0066]

[0064] The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise a fluid flow unit (e.g., fluid flow system or fluid flow cycle). The fluid flow unit may comprise at least two plenums, as further described herein. The fluid flow unit may comprise an impeller. The impeller may be coupled to the at least two plenums. The impeller may generate a fluid flow that may be directed through the at least two plenums, as further described herein. The fluid flow unit may comprise at least one heat exchanger. The at least one heat exchanger may transfer heat between the fluid flow unit and the refrigerant unit. The at least one heat exchanger may transfer heat between the fluid flow unit and the hydronics unit. The at least one heat exchanger may transfer heat between the refrigerant unit and the hydronics unit. The fluid flow unit may comprise at least two impellers. Each impeller may be coupled to at least two plenums.

[0067]

[0065] The fluid flow system may comprise an enthalpy recover}' ventilator (ERV) 130. The ERV 130 may permit passage of fluid between environments. The ERV 130 may exchange fluid within a structure, or interior fluid, with fluid outside the structure, or exterior fluid. The ERV 130 may supply fresh air from the exterior of the structure to the interior of the structure. The exterior fluid may become interior fluid upon exchange by the ERV 130. The interior fluid may become exterior fluid upon exchange by the ERV 130. The ERV 130 may remove carbon dioxide from the fluid within the structure. The ERV 130 may comprise thermally conductive material. The thermally conductive material may dissipate a temperature difference between the interior fluid and the exterior fluid upon the exchange. The thermally conductive material may distribute heat between the interior fluid and the exterior fluid upon the exchange. The thermally conductive material may cause the interior fluid and the exterior fluid to have the same temperature upon the exchange. The ERV 130 may permit passage of fluid while maintaining energy and moisture levels throughout the heating and cooling system 100. The ERV 130 may maintain or modulate energy levels throughout the heating and cooling system 100 when there is a temperature differential between the interior and the exterior of the structure. The ERV 130 may allow hot fluid to flow from the exterior of the structure into the interior of the structure, or from the interior of the structure to the exterior of the structure. The ERV 130 may allow cold fluid to flow from the exterior of the structure into the interior of the structure, or from the interior of the structure to the exterior of the structure.

[0068]

[0066] The ERV 130 may modulate moisture or humidity levels throughout the heating and cooling system 100 when there is a moisture or humidity differential between the interior and the exterior of the structure. The heating or cooling system 100 may form a condensate. The ERV 130 may maintain or modulate the moisture of the interior fluid by expelling the condensate into the exterior fluid or the interior fluid. The hydronic system may heat the ERV 130. A resistive heating method may heat the ERV 130. A line drawing on the hot refrigerant line may heat the ERV 130. Heating the ERV 130 may prevent freezing and / or long-term buildup of moisture and / or condensate.

[0067] The ERV 130 may facilitate fresh air exchange. The ERV 130 may facilitate ventilation for climatic reasons such as wildfire, pollen, and pollution. The ERV 130 may comprise a two- stage push-pull ERV built with a porous honeycomb ceramic core. The porous honeycomb ceramic core may provide efficient performance and supply chain availability.

[0069]

[0068] A coupled unit may be equipped with air-based sensors to control the quantity of fresh air

[0070]

[0069] exchange to improve energy retention by only engaging the ERV 130 when useful. A coupled unit may comprise with temperature, humidity, pressure, CO2, particulate matter, formaldehyde, and VOC sensing comprised in both indoor and outdoor airflow modules to effectively quantity7air characteristics and quality7. A coupled unit may further comprise additional sensors for monitoring carbon dioxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NOX), etc. and otherwise monitoring and logging air quality.

[0071]

[0070] The fluid flow system may comprise at least one filter. The filter may modulate the fluid quality7or purity in the heating or cooling system 100. The filter may remove allergens, pollution, mold, smoke, bacteria, viruses, or other pollutants from the air. The filter may purify the interior fluid when it is recirculated through the heating or cooling system 100. The filter may purify the exterior fluid when it is exchanged into the heating or cooling system 100 the ERV 130. The filter may have a MERV rating from about 5 to about 20. The filter may have a MERV rating of about 13. The filter may have a MERV rating greater than or equal to about 5 to about 20. The filter may have a MERV rating less than or equal to about 5 to about 20. The filter may have a MERV rating between two values described herein, for example between about 5 to about 20.

[0072]

[0071] The heating or cooling system 100 may also comprise a tracking unit (e.g., tracking system). The tracking system may track a location of a user within the enclosure. The user may move around within the enclosure. As the user moves around the enclosure, the tracking system may track the location of the user as the location changes. The user or the air around the user may have a user temperature. The tracking system may track the user temperature. The tracking unit may comprise sensors. The sensors may monitor the location of the user in the enclosure. The sensors may monitor the temperature of the air around the user in the enclosure.

[0073]

[0072] The tracking system may track individual locations of at least two users within the enclosure. The at least two users may move around within the enclosure independently of one another. As the at least two users move around within the enclosure, the tracking system may track the individual locations of the at least two users as the individual locations change. The at least two users or the air around the at least two users may each have an individual user temperature. The tracking system may track each of the individual user temperatures.

[0074]

[0073] The heating or cooling system 100 may also comprise light sensors. The light sensors may be configured to help determine occupancy of an enclosure, since light data can be used to make inferences on room utilization. The light sensors may be configured to help determine occupancy for acoustic behavior of the system in an enclosure.

[0075]

[0074] The light sensors may instruct a coupled unit to operate at quieter indoor modes when lights are off and occupants are detected (e.g., sleep mode). The light sensors may instruct a coupled unit to operate louder more powerful modes when lights are on and occupants are not detected (e.g., passively occupied). Various visual and auditory sensors may be combined with time, weather, and historical data to modulate indoor fan speed and improve acoustic behavior over time.

[0076]

[0075] The heating or cooling system 100 may operate within balanced noise criterion (NCB) parameters, which is utilized in the architectural design of noise-sensitive spaces like sleeping quarters and classrooms. A system component may meet the NCB-20 threshold. According to the NCB-20 threshold, a system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter of 32dB and outdoor noise of 45dB at full power. A fan comprised in a system component may comprise a motor, crossflow fin, and rubber gasket design to reduce noise output.

[0077]

[0076] A system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter of about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, or more, dB. A system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter of greater than or equal to about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter of less than or equal to about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an indoor noise rating from one meter between two values described herein, for example between about 20dB to about 100 dB.

[0078]

[0077] A system component may meet an outdoor noise rating from one meter of about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an outdoor noise rating from one meter of about 20, 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, or more, dB. A system component may meet an outdoor noise rating from one meter of greater than or equal to about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an outdoor noise rating from one meter of less than or equal to about 20dB to about 100 dB. A system component may meet an outdoor noise rating from one meter between two values described herein, for example between about 20dB to about 100 dB.

[0079]

[0078] The heating or cooling system 100 may also comprise a power unit (e.g., power system). The power unit may enable the heating or cooling system 100 to operate at about 100V to about 500V. The power unit may enable the heating or cooling system 100 to operate at greater than or equal to about 100V to about 500V. The power unit may enable the heating or cooling system 100 to operate at less than or equal to about 100V to about 500V. The power unit may enable the heating or cooling system 100 to operate between two values described herein, for example between about 100V to about 500V. The power unit may enable the heating or cooling system 100 to operate in the United States, Japan, Singapore, and / or the United Arab Emirates. The power unit may provide power to each component comprised in the heating or cooling system 110 that requires power to operate. The power unit may comprise an impulse. The impulse may be a lithium-ion battery’, lithium-phosphate battery’, home power battery’, or similar battery. The impulse may provide power to components of the heating or cooling system 100. The impulse may provide power to components of the heating or cooling system 100 when the components require more than 110V.

[0080]

[0079] The heating or cooling system 100 may also comprise a controller unit (e.g., controller system). The controller unit may modulate the power delivered by the power system to the components of the heating or cooling system 100. The controller unit may modulate the delivered power to accommodate environmental conditions, occupancy of the enclosure or enclosures, enclosure configurations, preset specifications, and / or user preferences. The environmental conditions may comprise solar irradiance, location of the heating and cooling system in the structure, geographic location of the structure, time of year, time of month, time of day, geographic azimuth (e.g., orientation), geographic elevation, and / or local weather conditions. The enclosure configurations may comprise doors, windows, appliances, and / or furniture. The doors and / or windows may be open and / or closed. The controller unit may modulate the temperature, direction, humidity, and / or flow rate of the fluid exiting the at least two plenums 401, 402 in order to modulate the temperature, humidity’, and / or purity of the air in the enclosure or zone.

[0081]

[0080] The controller unit may operate in various modes to maintain the temperature, humidity’, and / or purity of the air in the enclosure or zone within a set of parameters. In an automatic mode, the controller may maintain the temperature, humidity, and / or purity of the air within standard operating parameters. In a user-directed mode, the controller may maintain the temperature, humidity’, and / or purity' of the air within operating parameters determined by a user. In a tracking mode, the controller may utilize data from the tracking unit to maintain the temperature, humidity, and / or purity’ of the air surrounding the user within user-specific operating parameters.

[0082]

[0081] The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise sensors. The sensors may be comprised in components of the heating or cooling system 100. The sensors may be configured to communicate data to the controller unit. These sensors may monitor various parameters. These parameters may comprise temperature, pressure, current, mass flow rate of the refrigerant working fluid, the hydronics working fluid, and / or the air. These sensors may monitor these parameters in at least one location in the heating or cooling system 100. These sensors may monitor these parameters at the location of the user in the enclosure. The controller unit may monitor these variables to monitor the health of the heating or cooling system 100. These variables may change over time in response to environmental conditions, user preferences, and / or component lifespan deterioration. These variables may be within or outside of nominal operating parameters.

[0083]

[0082] The controller unit may modulate the components of the heating or cooling system 100 to maintain these variables within the nominal operating parameters. The controller unit may utilize a reinforcement learning-based method. The controller unit may reference the data provided by the sensors. The controller unit may model patterns of changes of the variables over time. The controller unit may use these patterns to inform modulations of the components of the heating or cooling system 100.

[0084]

[0083] The controller unit may make decisions at a network level and may be informed by sensors comprised in individual system components (e.g., via telemetry). A system component may be telemetrized and equipped with software for constant monitoring, logging, and distribution to a cloud or central network.

[0085]

[0084] The controller unit may improve efficiency as compared to a system comprising an HVAC unit and home appliances, which may possess limited interfacing capabilities due to complex building management control software and little to no shared telemetry between system components. The controller unit may improve efficiency as compared to systems comprising largely analog devices that monitor little amounts of telemetry for safety stops and other overload situations. The controller unit may improve efficiency as compared to systems that have limited capacity only to monitor power utilization patterns, but may not log or upload data that may inform machine learning training.

[0086]

[0085] By monitoring the performance, thermal states, and utilization patterns of the system components, the controller unit may continuously build an HVAC model of a building, enclosure, or zone to inform cooperativeness and efficiency of the system components.

[0087]

[0086] Some components in the hydronics system may involve mass-sharing or water loops that are intertwined between each other. Even with the addition of an expansion tank to support a varying hydronics working fluid (e.g., water) loop mass, control loops may facilitate regulation of the input and output of water into fixed loops. The controller unit may perform time division multiplexing, which ensures that heat pumps, outdoor units, and indoor units add and subtract hydronics working fluid (e.g., hydronic mass) into the loops based on a schedule.

[0088]

[0087] The controller unit may facilitate the heating and cooling system 100 to be adaptable to buildings that vary in size, number of enclosures, number of coupled units, length of lines, HVAC parameters, etc. Thus, the controller unit may improve efficiency as compared to systems developed only for specific use cases with networks carefully designed for specific building requirements. The heating and cooling system 100 may thus be a direct-to-consumer product that proposes a modular and scalable building-wide hydronic system. Further, the heating and cooling system 100 may provide a generalizable approach to HVAC control and heat distribution for scaling into various buildings. The controller unit may facilitate in-situ and lifelong learning, where individual system components and the entire heating and cooling system 100 progressively learn over time to effectively distribute and reutilize energy within the system 100. System components may be equipped with a minimum amount of compute capacity and cloud capacity for model training and deployment.

[0089]

[0088] The controller unit may utilize at least one of traditional PID control, model predictive control, physics-constrained neural networks, CNNs, LSTMs, deep reinforcement learning, or other machine-learning driven approaches to improve the performance of system components (e.g., indoor units, outdoor units, and heat pumps) at a device level and network level. Management of data, training, deployment, and networked control may be facilitated by the inclusion of sensors, computational capacity, cloud connectivity, and connection interfaces such as Ethernet and WiFi in the system components.

[0090]

[0089] The controller unit may monitor the lifespan of the impulse. The controller unit may provide an alert before or when the impulse may reach the lifespan terminus. The controller unit may be configured to accept user inputs. The user inputs may relate to temperature, humidity, and / or purity of the air in an enclosure or zone. The user inputs may relate to temperature, humidity, and / or purity of the air around a specific user.

[0091]

[0090] The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise an external remote. The external remote may comprise additional sensors. As described herein, the sensors may monitor various parameters. Similar to the controller unit, the external remote may be configured to accept user inputs.

[0092]

[0091] The heating or cooling system 100 may accept user inputs via an on-unit panel (FIG. 9B) or a remote thermostat designed for control without the use of an application or Wi-Fi (FIG. 9C). The on-unit panel depicted in FIG. 9B may control the system component (e.g., coupled unit). The on-unit panel may set or indicate the airflow, temperature, or behavior of the system component. The battery-powered dial depicted in FIG. 9C may control the nearest system component (e.g., coupled unit). The battery-powered dial may set or indicate the airflow, temperature, or behavior of a system component, similarly to that of the onboard panel. With included mounting accessories, the dial may be magnetically attached to a wall or charging platform when not being remotely used. The dial may also be configured to perform remote sensing of air characteristics and quality. The remote sensor may facilitate close responses to the HVAC needs of an enclosure at a spatial level to prevent over-running of a system component due to hot or cold spots in the enclosure.

[0093]

[0092] The heating or cooling system 100 may accept user inputs via integration with a wall- mounted thermostat. The wall-mounted thermostat may utilize pre-existing thermostat wiring in an enclosure.

[0094]

[0093] System components may connect with one another or the controller unit via 2.4 / 5 Ghz Wi-Fi for wireless app control or hardwired ethemet for compatibility with off-the-shelf building management systems (BMS). The controller unit may be directly or natively integrated with a BMS controller to provide secure, scalable connectivity' and facilitate rapid commissioning of building automation and data management solutions.

[0095]

[0094] The heating or cooling system 100 may accept user inputs via an app. either via desktop or web view (FIG. 9A) or a mobile app (FIG. 9B). The app depict multiple system components or enclosures. The app may utilize accessible wireless interfaces such as RFID / Bluetooth to upload Wi-Fi credentials and connect to system components or other devices. The app may facilitate further control and monitoring of system efficiency (COP and energy utilization), refrigeration and hydronics system telemetry (pressures, temperatures, flow' rates, etc.), error and maintenance notifications, and an interface to control and monitor fleets of system components (e.g., coupled units) across a building. Thus, the app may facilitate control of pow er, temperature settings, and maintenance schedules autonomously in an easy-to-access GUI.

[0096]

[0095] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the heating or cooling system described in the present disclosure. The system may comprise an indoor unit 210. The system may comprise an outdoor unit 220. The indoor unit 210 and the outdoor unit 220 may be coupled together through a wall 230. The indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit 220 (e g., the indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit

[0097] 220 pair coupled to each other, herein referred to as “coupled units’7) may comprise a shell structure or shell structures. The shell structures may enclose some or all of the components of the heating or cooling system 100. The wall 230 may have an interior face 231 and an exterior face 232. An indoor mounting plate 211 may be attached to the interior face 231. The indoor unit 210 may be installed by attaching to the indoor mounting plate 211. An outdoor mounting plate

[0098] 221 may be attached to the exterior face 232. The outdoor unit 220 may be installed by attaching to the outdoor mounting plate 221. The indoor unit 210 may be coupled to the outdoor unit 220 in the inter- w all space betw een the indoor mounting plate 211 and the outdoor mounting plate 221.

[0099]

[0096] The heating or cooling system 100 may exchange fluid between the interior and exterior of a structure. The structure may comprise an enclosed space. The system may exchange fluid to or from the enclosed space. The system may exchange fluid between the indoor unit (i.e. on the interior of an enclosed space) and the outdoor unit (i.e. on the exterior of the enclosed space). The system may exchange fluid via the inter-wall connection between the indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit 220. The heating or cooling system 100 may exchange heat between the interior and exterior of a structure via the inter-wall connection between the indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit 220. The heating or cooling system 100 may exchange moisture or humidity7between the interior and exterior of a structure via the inter- wall connection between the indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit 220.

[0100]

[0097] The fluid flow system may draw a fluid from the exterior of the structure or the interior of the structure. The fluid flow system may draw a fluid from the exterior of the structure or the interior of the structure through the shell structure or structures. The shell structure may be optimized for the Coanda effect to provide improved control over the fluid flow. The shell structure may be optimized based on Bernoulli’s principle to provide increased fluid flow volume. The fluid flow system may direct fluid out of the at least two plenums, as described herein.

[0101]

[0098] The indoor unit 210 may have a width from about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a width greater than or equal to about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a width less than or equal to about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a width between two values described herein, for example between about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a height from about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a height greater than or equal to about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a height less than or equal to about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a height between two values described herein, for example between about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a depth from about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a depth greater than or equal to about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a depth less than or equal to about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a depth between two values described herein, for example between about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The depth may be measured perpendicular to a surface to which the indoor unit 210 is attached.

[0102]

[0099] The outdoor unit 220 may have a width from about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a width greater than or equal to about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a width less than or equal to about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a width between two values described herein, for example between about 200 mm to about 500 mm. The indoor unit 210 may have a height from about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a height greater than or equal to about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a height less than or equal to about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a height between two values described herein, for example between about 800 mm to about 2000 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a depth from about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a depth greater than or equal to about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a depth less than or equal to about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The outdoor unit 220 may have a depth between two values described herein, for example between about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The depth may be measured perpendicular to a surface to which the outdoor unit 220 is attached.

[0103]

[0100] One or both of the indoor unit 210 and the outdoor unit 220 may comprise the hydronics system, the refrigerant system, the fluid flow unit, and / or the power unit. The indoor unit 210 and outdoor unit 220 may comprise the tracking unit or the controller unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise more two or more pairs of indoor units 220 and outdoor units 210. The two or more pairs of indoor units 220 and outdoor units 210 may be connected by the hydronics system.

[0104]

[0101] FIG. 3 illustrates the relationship between the refrigerant units, the hydronics units, and the indoor units and the outdoor units 310, 311, 312 (210. 220) within the heating or cooling system 300 (100). The indoor units and outdoor units 310, 311, 312 each may comprise a refrigerant unit 320, 321, 322. The refrigerant units 320, 321, 322 may exchange heat with the hydronics units 330, 331, 332 via the heat exchangers 340, 341, 342. In some cases, refrigerant unit 320 may exchange heat with hydronics unit 330 and / or hydronics unit 332 via heat exchanger 340. Similarly, refrigerant unit 321 may exchange heat with hydronics unit 330 and / or hydronics unit 331 via heat exchanger 341 . Similarly, refrigerant unit 322 may exchange heat with hydronics unit 331 and / or hydronics unit 332 via heat exchanger 341. The indoor unit and outdoor unit (e g., the indoor unit and outdoor unit pair coupled to each other, herein referred to as "‘coupled units") 310 may be connected to coupled units 311 by hydronics unit 330. Similarly, coupled units 311 may be connected to coupled units 312 by hydronics unit 331. Similarly, coupled units 312 may be connected to indoor coupled units 310 by hydronics unit 332. The hydronics units 330, 331, 332 may carry heat between the coupled units 310, 311, 312 via the hydronics working fluid. The heating or cooling system 300 (100) may comprise additional coupled units, refrigerant units, and / or hydronics units. These additional units may expand the heating or cooling system 300 (100) to incorporate additional zones or accommodate a larger structure footprint.

[0105]

[0102] A heat exchanger may comprise a fan coil unit (FIG. 17). By standardizing the medium of energy transfer to the hydronics working fluid (e.g., water) in an outdoor unit, a fully hydronic waste dissipation method facilitates for any number of size and shaped fan coil units to be networked together to collectively act as one heat exchanger. Thus, the heating and cooling system 100 facilitates a flexibility to achieve architectural integration, since all surfaces that are architecturally available can act as fan coil heat exchangers to maximize the surface area for heat dissipation in order to improve capacity and efficiency of a heat pump.

[0106]

[0103] The heating and cooling system 100 may comprise outdoor or indoor fan coils of different sizes, footprints, protrusions off the wall, optionally recessed, airflow methods (crossflow, axial, centrifugal) based on structural, architectural, electrical, and environmental parameters (e.g., noise). Via standardized interfaces with the heating and cooling system 100, a fan coil may be installed and utilized by the heating and cooling system 100 with minimal labor and specific tuning.

[0107]

[0104] The heating and cooling system 100 may further comprise indoor radiant paneling or outdoor radiant paneling. Radiant paneling may be interfaced with the heating and cooling system 100 to temper enclosures or dissipate waste. Within an enclosure, a hydronics fluid line may cool or heat floors or walls of the enclosure without the use of an indoor fan coil unit. The heat pumps may be compatible with off-the-shelf radiant solutions.

[0108]

[0105] Outdoor radiant paneling may be configured to make every surface of a building a heat exchanger for waste dissipation. An outdoor radiant panel may comprise a hydronic radiant panel or tile for walls and roofs. An outdoor radiant panel may be configured to absorb and release heat as needed by the heating and cooling system 100. Roof tiling may facilitate heat absorption in cold conditions (e.g.. the winter) when ambient air temperature is much colder than the temperature of the roof in direct sunlight. Compared to solar panels, which may suffer from reduced efficiency in high temperatures, the roof tiling may be used for simultaneous photovoltaic (PV) cooling and hot water generation. Generally, the roof is a surface that interacts with sunlight, air, and water (in rain) and may utilized for absorption and extraction of heat with the heating and cooling system 100.

[0109]

[0106] Heat recovery in radiant wall paneling may be conceptualized as increasing the insulation (e.g., R-value) of a wall. Home insulation is one of the largest factors in building efficiency but can be challenging improve in a retrofit scenario. Neutral temperature w ater flowing through a radiant wall panel may provide a low cost way to dramatically improve the wall insulation capacity of existing buildings.

[0110]

[0107] The heating and cooling system 100 may further utilize thermal battery storage. A thermal battery may comprise a buffer tank for the storage of heated / chilled w ater. A thermal battery system may comprise the same manifold and flow- structure as a fan coil unit (i.e., a fan coil dumps energy into air. a thermal battery dumps energy into a tank). The manifold used to modulate between the desired and waste lines in a fan coil may be directly reutilized for a thermal battery.

[0108] A thermal battery may facilitate a heat pump in prioritizing running and producing heat or cold when energy and electricity is cheap. A thermal battery’ may facilitate the system in optimizing based on other time-based factors. For example, in a desert or climates where temperature varies significantly based on the time of day, the waste of one time of day (heat in the day or cold at night) is the desired energy of the other time of day. In some cases, where simultaneous heating or cooling is required offset by some period of time, a thermal battery may temporarily store low entropy waste to be reutilized later by another heat pump.

[0111]

[0109] Thermal battery storage may' not be limited to an insulated water tank. Through the hydronics system, mediums and storage methods of all ty pes may easily interface with the heating and cooling system 100. Indoor fan coils may utilize the indoor air of unoccupied rooms such as attics and basements as batteries. A pool heater (or chiller) may facilitate the use of the large thermal mass of a pool to act as a thermal battery when the pool is not in use (e g., during the winter).

[0112] [HO] The heating and cooling system 100 may further connect to off-grid peripherals such as rainwater catchment / storage tanks. In some cases, a rainwater collection system may double as a thermal battery as well offering a dual-purpose product for domestic water collection and HVAC. [Hl] A thermal battery' may further accept excess charge in a curtailment scenario (e.g., when renewable energy’ sources produce excess energy’ within the heating and cooling system 100). During a curtailment scenario, the thermal battery may supplement existing battery solutions in an enclosure or building to accept and store excess grid power.

[0113]

[0112] A thermal battery’ with a hydronic capacity may improve efficiency and energy reutilization. A thermal battery' may also be useful in emergency situations and natural disasters where extended heating and cooling is needed when power is unavailable. In contrast, some systems may be inoperable during a power outage and may lead to significant loss of life if an outage occurs in harsh summer or winter conditions. A thermal battery-based distributed hydronics system may maintain some capacity' to minimally heat or cool environments in an emergency scenario based on pure hydronic capacity7. Radiant system components may not need additional battery’ power other than to run a pump. Fan coil system components may utilize both a pump and fan, which may use significantly less power than running a vapor compression cycle on battery backup power.

[0114]

[0113] The heating and cooling system 100 may further connect to geothermal systems and wells to dissipate waste beyond ambient. Any available ocean, aquifers, rivers, and lakes near or on a property may similarly provide a water-based interface to boost the performance of the heating and cooling system 100.

[0114] The water-water heat pumps disclosed herein may create a majority of the capacity of the heating and cooling system 100. Other heat pump devices may be cascaded into the heating and cooling system 100 to act as peripheral heat pumps. Such other devices may comprise refrigerators, freezers, buffet carts, heat pump dryers, domestic water heaters, ice makers, wine chillers, pool heaters, saunas, dehumidifiers, greenhouses, etc.

[0115]

[0115] The heating and cooling system 100 may at a home or district level may architecturally integrate every surface and open space for the purposes of heat recovery and release and to interface every device in a building to utilize this capacity of energy to dramatically reduce the energy7utilization at a building and city level.

[0116]

[0116] FIG. 4 illustrates how a fluid may flow through the at least two plenums or the doubleplenum assembly. The at least two plenums 401, 402 (e.g., double plenum assembly) may be coupled to the impeller at a junction 403. The fluid may flow into the at least two plenums 401, 402 from the impeller at the junction 403. The fluid flow through the first plenum (e.g., first fluid flow) may be depicted by the arrows 404 (FIGs. 4A-4C). The fluid flow through the second plenum (e.g.. second fluid flow) may be depicted by the arrows 405 (FIGs. 4A-4C). The first fluid flow and the second fluid flow may combine to provide a resultant fluid flow. The resultant fluid flow may be depicted by the arrows 406 (FIG. 4C). The fluid may flow from the at least two plenums 401, 402 to the enclosure via the vents 407.

[0117]

[0117] A louver 408 may articulate to direct the fluid flow from the impeller to one or both of the at least two plenums 401, 402. The louver 408 may direct the fluid from the impeller to the first plenum 401 by articulating fully into a first position (FIG. 4A). The louver 408 may direct the fluid from the impeller to the second plenum 402 by articulating fully into a second position (FIG. 4B). The louver 408 may direct the fluid from the impeller to both the first plenum 401 and the second plenum 402 by articulating between the first position and the second position (FIG. 4C). The louver 408 may maintain a static position between the first position and the second position. The louver 408 may articulate in an oscillating manner between the first position and the second position.

[0118]

[0118] The at least two plenums 401, 402 may each comprise an airfoil 409, 410. The airfoil 409 may be configured to direct the first fluid flow 404 as it exits the vents 407 in the first plenum 401 to have a first direction. The airfoil 410 may be configured to direct the second fluid flow 405 as it exits the vents 407 in the second plenum 402 to have a second direction. The first fluid flow 404 may be perpendicular to the second fluid flow 405. Similarly, the first direction may be perpendicular to the second direction. The combination of the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow may produce the resultant fluid flow 406 based on vectoring effects. The louver 408 may articulate between the first position and the second position based on input from the controller system and / or tracking system. The controller unit may articulate the louver 408 to modulate the direction of the resultant fluid flow 406.

[0119]

[0119] Thus, a double plenum assembly may provide a resultant fluid flow 406 with a 90° range of motion. When the fluid flow unit comprises at least two impellers, where each impeller is coupled to a double plenum assembly, the fluid flow unit may provide two resultant fluid flows 406. Thus, the fluid flow unit may provide a 180° range of coverage to the enclosure.

[0120]

[0120] FIG. 5 further illustrates how a fluid may flow into the indoor unit 210, through the components within the indoor unit 210, and out of the at least one plenum 401, 402.

[0121]

[0121] FIG. 6 demonstrates how the heating or cooling system 100 may be installed, e.g., on and in a wall of a residential building.

[0122]

[0122] The heating or cooling system 100 may comprise a self-installation unit. The selfinstallation unit may permit an air conditioning unit to be installed without an HVAC installer. The self-installation unit may involve certification. The certification may include EPA608. The air conditioning unit may comprise the indoor unit 210, the outdoor unit 220, and the components associated with the indoor and outdoor units 210, 220.

[0123]

[0123] An opening may be created in a wall. As described herein, the wall may comprise an interior face and an exterior face. The indoor mounting plate 211 may be attached to the interior face 231. The outdoor mounting plate 221 may be attached to the exterior face 232. The indoor unit or assembly 210 may be attached to the indoor mounting plate 211. The outdoor unit or assembly 220 may be attached to the outdoor mounting plate 221. The indoor unit or assembly 210 may be coupled to the outdoor unit or assembly 220 in the inter-wall space between the indoor mounting plate 211 and the outdoor mounting plate 221.

[0124]

[0124] The self-installation unit or air conditioning unit may comprise at least one pressurized vessel comprising a test fluid. The test fluid may comprise nitrogen or a similar fluid. The refrigerant cycle may be pressurized with the test fluid comprised in the pressurized vessel. The refrigerant cycle may be tested for nominal operation parameters. Nominal operation parameters may comprise temperature, pressure, current flow rate, and / or mass flow rate of the fluid, in the refrigerant cycle, and / or other operation parameters. The nominal operation parameters may comprise temperature, pressure, cunent flow rate, or mass flow rate of the test fluid. Nominal operation parameters may be tested at multiple locations in the refrigerant cycle.

[0125]

[0125] The test fluid may be evacuated from the refrigerant cycle. The self-installation unit or air conditioning unit may comprise at least one pressurized vessel comprising the refrigerant working fluid The refrigerant cycle may be pressurized with the refrigerant working fluid comprised in the at least one pressurized vessel. The refrigerant cycle may be tested for nominal operation parameters. The nominal operation parameters may comprise temperature, pressure, current flow rate, or mass flow rate of the refrigerant working fluid.

[0126]

[0126] The self-installation unit or air conditioning unit may comprise the hydronics cycle or hydronics working fluid. The hydronics cycle may be charged with the hydronics working fluid. The hydronics working fluid may be comprised in a pre-loaded reservoir.

[0127]

[0127] The heating or cooling system 100 may provide heating or cooling capacity.

[0128]

[0128] The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 4,000, 5,000, 6,000, 7, 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, 13,000, 14,000, 15,000. 16,000, 17,000, 18,000, 19,000, 2,0000. 21,000, 22,000, 23,000, 24,000, 25,000, or more, BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 10,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 5,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 6,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 14,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply greater than or equal to about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply less than or equal to about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU of heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply a heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit between two values described herein, for example between about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU.

[0129]

[0129] The heating or cooling system 100 may supply about 4,000 to about 25.000 BTU of average heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply greater than or equal to about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU of average heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply less than or equal to about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU of average heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit. The heating or cooling system 100 may supply an average heating or cooling operating capacity per coupled unit between two values described herein, for example between about 4,000 to about 25,000 BTU.

[0130]

[0130] The heating or cooling system 100 may have a Energy’ Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating from about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a EER rating greater than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a EER rating less than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a EER rating between two values described herein, for example between about 5 to about 40.

[0131] The heating or cooling system 100 may have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) baseline rating from about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 baseline rating greater than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 baseline rating less than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 baseline rating between two values described herein, for example between about 5 to about 40.

[0131]

[0132] The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 effective rating from about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 effective rating greater than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 effective rating less than or equal to about 5 to about 40. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a SEER2 effective rating between two values described herein, for example between about 5 to about 40.

[0132]

[0133] The heating or cooling system 100 may have a Ideating Seasonal Performance Factor 2 (HSPF2) baseline rating from about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 baseline rating greater than or equal to about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 baseline rating less than or equal to about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 baseline rating between two values described herein, for example between about 1 to about 30.

[0133]

[0134] The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 effective rating from about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 effective rating greater than or equal to about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 effective rating less than or equal to about 1 to about 30. The heating or cooling system 100 may have a HSPF2 effective rating between two values described herein, for example between about 1 to about 30.

[0134]

[0135] The heating or cooling system 100 may operate at less than about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 decibels. The heating or cooling system 100 may operate at less than or equal to about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29. 30. 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39. 40. 41. 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57, 58, 59, or 60 effective decibels. The heating or cooling system 100 may reach a minimum temperature of less than or equal to about -1°C, -2°C, -3°C, -4°C, -5°C, -6°C, -7°C, -8°C, -9°C, -10°C, -11°C, -12°C, -13°C, -14°C, -5°C, -16°C, -17°C, -18°C, -19°C, -20°C, -21°C, -22°C, -23°C, -24°C, -25°C. -26°C, - 27°C, -28°C. -29°C, or -30°C. The indoor unit 210 may weigh less than or equal to about 10kg, 11kg, 12kg, 13kg, 14kg, 15kg, 16kg, 17kg, 18kg, 19kg, 20kg, 21kg, 22kg, 23kg, 24kg, 25kg, 26kg, 27kg, 28kg, 29kg, 30kg, 31kg, 32kg, 33kg, 34kg, 35kg, 36kg, 37kg, 38kg, 39kg, 40kg, 41kg. 42kg, 43kg, 44kg, 45kg, 46kg, 47kg, 48kg, 49kg, 50kg, 51kg, 52kg, 53kg, 54kg, 55kg,

[0135] 56kg, 57kg, 58kg, 59kg, or 60kg. The outdoor unit 220 may weigh less than or equal to about

[0136] 10kg, 11kg, 12kg, 13kg, 14kg, 15kg, 16kg, 17kg, 18kg, 19kg, 20kg, 21kg, 22kg, 23kg, 24kg,

[0137] 25kg, 26kg, 27kg, 28kg, 29kg, 30kg, 31kg, 32kg, 33kg, 34kg, 35kg, 36kg, 37kg, 38kg, 39kg,

[0138] 40kg. 41kg, 42kg, 43kg, 44kg, 45kg, 46kg, 47kg, 48kg, 49kg. 50kg, 51kg, 52kg, 53kg, 54kg,

[0139] 55kg, 56kg, 57kg, 58kg, 59kg. or 60kg.

[0140]

[0136] A coupled unit may comprise a variable speed rotary compressor. The compressor may contribute to a coefficient of performance (COP) for the heating and cooling system 100.

[0141]

[0137] The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP of about 2 to about 4. The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP of about 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3. 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.11. 3.12. 3.13. 3.14, 3.15, 3.16, 3.17, 3.18, 3.19, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4. 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8. 3.9, 4, or more. The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP of about 3.18. The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP of greater than or equal to about 2 to about 4. The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP of less than or equal to about 2 to about 4. The heating and cooling system 100 may have a COP between two values described herein, for example between about 2 to about 4.

[0142]

[0138] An outdoor unit may comprise an outdoor coil. The outdoor coil may comprise a total heat transfer surface area of about 10 m2to about 40 m2. The outdoor coil may comprise a total heat transfer surface area of greater than or equal to about 10 m2to about 40 m2The outdoor coil may comprise a total heat transfer surface area of less than or equal to about 10 m2to about 40 m2. The outdoor coil may comprise a total heat transfer surface area between two values described herein, for example between about 10 m2to about 40 m2.

[0143]

[0139] Should ice buildup be detected on the outdoor unit, defrost may be achieved by either activating a reversing valve and reversing the heat pump cycle or drawing heat out of the hydronics system in order to warm the outdoor coils. This hydronics defrost methodology facilitates the compressor and reversing valve to retain a steady state even in defrost mode, overcoming the efficiency and comfort losses created by reversing the heat pump cycle. In addition to providing a comfort-maintaining defrost experience, the hydronics system (e.g., hydronics loop) may provide thermal buffering that facilitates the compressor to achieve a high COP across various use conditions.

[0144]

[0140] The ERV 130 may provide about 20 to about 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of fresh air exchange. The ERV 130 may provide about 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50. 55. 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, or more. CFM of fresh air exchange. The ERV 130 may provide greater than or equal to about 20 to about 100 CFM of fresh air exchange. The ERV 130 may provide less than or equal to about 20 to about 100 CFM of fresh air exchange. The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange between two values described herein, for example between about 20 to about 100 CFM of fresh air exchange.

[0145]

[0141] The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange at about a 70% to about a 100% energy recovery efficiency. The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange at about a 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%. 98%. 99%. 100% energy recovery efficiency. The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange at less than or equal to about a 70% to about a 100% energy recovery efficiency. The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange at greater than or equal to about a 70% to about a 100% energy recovery efficiency. The ERV 130 may provide fresh air exchange at an energy recovery efficiency between two values described herein, for example between about a 70% to about a 100% energy’ recovery efficiency.

[0146]

[0142] The ERV 130 may provide about 60 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of fresh air exchange at a 90% energy recovery' efficiency.

[0147]

[0143] FIGs. 7-8 and 10-11 demonstrate an alternative configuration of the system components comprising a unified Packaged Terminal Heat Pump (PTHP) configuration that can be comprised in an existing Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PT AC) sleeve.

[0148]

[0144] The PTHP configuration comprises refrigeration, electrical, and software components of the coupled units described herein. The PTHP configuration measures 15.75” H x 41.75” W x 17.5 ”D and fits into existing PTAC sleeves with a 32% slimmer profile than conventional products. The PTHP configuration may be one of the thinnest PTAC units in the market. The PTHP configuration may only protrudes 5” from the inner wall when installed with a standard 16” x 42” wall sleeve. The PTHP configuration may further comprise modular trim attachments to fit into non-standard openings. The PTHP configuration may weighs 108 pounds. The PTHP configuration may be hermetically sealed with 16 ounces of pre-charged R32 refrigerant for the heat pump module and a propylene glycol hydronic mixture in the fan coil system.

[0149]

[0145] The PTHP configuration specifications may meet the requirements of a building owner and management, with added advantages in customization, aesthetics, performance, and expandability’ (Table 1).

[0150] TABLE 1: PTHP Configuration Specifications

[0146] The PTHP configuration may comprise a PTAC sleeve and modular trim, and gasket attachments for gaps between the unit and the wall. The sealed heat pump module may be isolated from the rest of the hydronic loops and thoroughly insulated, preventing thermal losses between components. Insulation may also built into the paneling to avoid condensation.

[0151]

[0147] The PTHP configuration may be maintained and serviced efficiently. The PTHP configuration may comprise filters that may be quickly accessed via removal of the front panel. The PTHP configuration may comprise distinct modular subsystems dedicated to airflow, refrigeration, electrical, condensation management, and fresh air exchange. Critical error events may be logged in detail on the app and physically denoted by an error message on the PTHP configuration unit. If a component fails, the core module may be slid out, and the PTHP configuration contents may be serviced without the need to remove any sealing around the sleeve. Non-critical errors and maintenance suggestions may also be tracked in detail, allowing an operator to be notified preemptively when maintenance is suggested or when components begin to fail. The temperature and current sensors across all components inform refrigerant capacity, motor efficiency curves, and other values that are unknown in traditional systems without close analysis by an HVAC technician.

[0152]

[0148] An enclosure may not have the infrastructure for condensation management, and dripping presents a hazard to the structure and the people nearby. The PTHP configuration may comprise an atomization mechanism to fully dissipate condensation into the outdoor air without the need to drip condensate out of the PTHP configuration unit. An overflow drainage port may be available on the PTHP configuration unit for structures with condensate lines.

[0153]

[0149] There are an estimated 515,000 PTAC / PTHP units sold in the United States each year (per the DOE). Assuming ~4% of total U.S. PTAC / PTHP sales being in New York (consistent with NYC’s share of the hotel market and high-rise residential buildings that use PTACs), the top-down estimated demand in the New York State equates to around 22,500 units per year. Reportedly, 125,000 PTAC / PTHP units installed in New York State hotels (per NYSERDA). Adding the estimated 30% of the remaining market share of multifamily residential and other commercial segments, the total number of PTAC / PTHPs in New York state may be close to 180,000 units. Given the typical product lifespan of 10-15 years, New York state may see at least 12,000-18,000 replacements yearly and additional demand from new installations to bring the estimate close to 22,500 units annually.

[0154]

[0150] By offering easy-to-install, easy-to-maintain, and highly efficient PTHP units in the market, the PTHP configuration poses an opportunity to grow the market even further by providing a viable alternative for new construction projects to consider PTHP solutions compared to other options.

[0151] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

[0155] EXAMPLES

[0156]

[0152] EXAMPLE 1 : Exemplary Operating Parameters

[0157]

[0153] A coupled unit may maintain up to 100% heating capacity down to -5°F while operating at 10,000 BTU / h at -15°F, maintaining 71% capacity without additional electrical resistance.

[0158]

[0154] A coupled unit may be efficient with a COP greater than 1.5 at 5°F and an energy' efficiency ratio (EER) of 9.4. A coupled unit may provide a winter COP of at least 3.0. A coupled unit may utilize a dual chamber psychometric setup to perform efficiency testing. Tests may be set to reflect regional winter profiles at key temperature points (e.g., 47°F, 35°F, 17°F, or as low as 5°F) while monitoring setting humidity (-60-80%) to induce defrost capacity7.

[0159]

[0155] A coupled unit may achieve efficient cooling in hot, humid, summer conditions. In cooling mode, a coupled unit may deliver a COP of 3.0 up to 110°F. These metrics may be validated in a climate lab or verified through third-party testing with the WCEC and the Intertek Cortland, NY testing facility7.

[0160]

[0156] On high-humidity7days, a coupled unit may be set to modulate between cooling and dehumidification modes autonomously. By adjusting superheat, indoor coil temperature, and fan speed, a coupled unit may optimize across a gradient of sensible cooling and latent cooling. When spaces are unoccupied, a coupled unit may prioritize an initial dehumidification mode with a low7superheat and coil temperature significantly below7the room’s dew' point to increase humidity collection.

[0161]

[0157] When occupants are detected, or room temperature deviates too far from the set temperature, a coupled unit may behavior module may automatically reengage cooling mode.

[0162]

[0158] The ERV may provide 60 cubic CFM of fresh air exchange at a 90% energy recovery7efficiency.

[0163]

[0159] Multiple coupled units may be connected via common insulated water lines to form a central hydronic chain that is maintained at an optimally performant temperature of 20-30°C. Multiple coupled units can simultaneously add or subtract heat to and from the central line, which may increase overall building-wdde efficiency by up to 40% with minimal mechanical rework.

[0160] EXAMPLE 2: Distribution and Allocation of Thermal Energy

[0164]

[0161] To better understand the purpose of the hydronic network, a distribution and allocation of thermal energy through a network topology (FIG. 16) may be utilized.

[0165]

[0162] In a summer case (FIG. 16A), the desired temperature is cooling and the waste produced by the heat pump is heat. Neutral represents a middle temperature between Desired and Waste. As the outdoor ambient temperature generally trends towards waste, ambient is placed as a temperature state that sits between neutral and waste.

[0166]

[0163] A heat pumps may generate a temperature lift between the evaporator and condenser to be hotter than ambient in order to effectively remove heat into the outdoors. Thus, one sees a large compressor lift between the desired and waste states. Temperature lift and compressor load dramatically impacts the coefficient of performance (COP) of the system.

[0167]

[0164] The goal of the hydronics system (e.g., hydronic network topology) is to programmatically move heat around the building across multiple heat pumps to reduce the lift between desired and waste temperature across all heat pumps. Buildings often simultaneously have heating and cooling needs (water heaters in the summer, refrigerators in the winter) thus giving opportunity for heat pumps to utilize waste energy to reduce lift across the system. Without improving upon the physics of the vapor compression cycle and looking at exclusively the movement of energy7throughout the building, hydronics opens opportunities to better dissipate excess waste, reutilize useful waste, and reduce compressor lift on average across all systems to improve COP.

[0168]

[0165] It is only possible to transfer heat in one direction (low high entropy), thus it becomes progressively harder to push the system’s waste temperature left on the temperature range towards neutral as it requires higher quality desired temperature (FIG. 16B).

[0169]

[0166] Waste dissipation methods may be utilized to push the system’s waste further left on the temperature range, higher quality (low entropy) waste dissipation. In FIG. 16B, methods to the left of the temperature range are highest quality, and methods to the right have the least quality7. All methods on the left can also be utilized for state transitions on the right. In other words, simultaneous waste utilization or geothermal can help waste transition to ambient, but fan coils cannot transition neutral temperature waster to desired temperature.

[0170]

[0167] Waste Ambient is achieved by utilizing outdoor heat exchangers. Like traditional heat pump systems, fan coils are used to dissipate waste energy into ambient. Traditional air source heat pumps are often limited in efficiency by the size of the fan coil heat exchangers available in the outdoor unit. Hydronically networked coupled units disclosed herein avoid this constraint as the waste side heat exchange is water-based, meaning any number of fan coils may be placed in series as needed and allowable by the architecture.

[0168] Ambient — Neutral is a much more challenging transition as the outdoor air cannot be used to push the water temperature beyond ambient. External energy sources must be used to push ambient temperature water to neutral, thus these methods generally require batteries or other energy sources. Geothermal systems utilize the Earth’s thermal mass as a battery and often produce, less related to ambient temperature, a much more neutral temperature that is more favorable for heat pumps. If a geothermal system is available, the geothermal line may be interfaced with the waste line of the system in order to contribute beyond ambient. Similarly, other reservoirs such as large water tank thermal batteries and pools may be used to store energy. In the winter, the solar gain of roofs and walls are much warmer than the ambient air and a product line of heat capture systems may be introduced to push ambient water to a neutral state. Finally, the shared waste line that interfaces with an indoor unit allows for previously cooled / heated rooms to help dissipate waste. Similar to the outside units, which act as fan coils to the outdoor ambient air, indoor units may be utilized as fan coils to the tempered indoor air, which is often much closer to the desired temperature, to push ambient water further left. This process, or “Room Recovery,” is a higher-quality variant of the traditional fan coil system used for the ambient neutral transition.

[0171]

[0169] Neutral — > Desired is the final state transition that requires very high-quality energy and another heat pump achieve. Simultaneous heating and cooling scenarios may be utilized for this transition. If there is ever a heat pump that operates in reverse to the general needs of a system (water heater in summer, refrigerator in winter), the high-quality waste of that heat pump (which is high quality desired energy to the rest of the system) may be utilized to push neutral temperature water closer to desired temperature. In essence, reutilizing the waste energy of one heat pump for another. This is the most situational of all the waste dissipation methods as it requires another heat pump to concurrently run in an opposite direction but is the highest quality and quick method of generating desired temperature. In large buildings, these simultaneous scenarios become more common. Home appliance product lines that are hydronically networkable also create more opportunities for this type of simultaneous waste recovery7.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A heating or cooling system comprising: a. an indoor unit; b. an outdoor unit, wherein said indoor unit is coupled to said outdoor unit through a wall; c. a refrigerant unit, wherein said refrigerant system comprises a refrigerant working fluid, wherein said refrigerant working fluid comprises carbon dioxide; and d. a fluid flow unit, wherein said fluid flow unit comprises at least two plenums, wherein a first plenum of said at least two plenums comprises a first airfoil.

2. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein said refrigerant unit further comprises a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, or at least one heat exchanger.

3. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein a second plenum of said at least two plenums comprises a second airfoil.

4. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein said first plenum of said at least two plenums is configured direct a fluid to a location outside said indoor unit.

5. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein said first plenum of said at least two plenums is vertically oriented.

6. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein each of said at least two plenums is vertically oriented.

7. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein each of said at least two plenums comprises at least one vent.

8. The heating or cooling system of claim 7, wherein said first airfoil is configured to direct a first fluid flow, having a first direction, through said at least one vent comprised in said first plenum.

9. The heating or cooling system of claim 7, wherein said second airfoil is configured to direct a second fluid flow, having a second direction, through said at least one vent comprised in said second plenum.

10. The heating or cooling system of claim 9, wherein said first fluid flow is perpendicular to said second fluid flow.

11. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein said fluid flow unit further comprises an impeller, wherein said impeller is coupled to said at least two plenums.

12. The heating or cooling system of claim 11, wherein said fluid flow unit further comprises a louver, wherein said louver is configured to direct a fluid from said impeller to said first plenum of said at least two plenums.

13. The heating or cooling system of claim 12, wherein said louver is configured to direct said fluid from said impeller to said at least two plenums.

14. The heating or cooling system of claim 12, wherein said impeller and said louver are configured to adjust a first strength and a first speed of said first fluid flow.

15. The heating or cooling system of claim 12, wherein said impeller and said louver are configured to adjust a second strength and a second speed of said second fluid flow.

16. The heating or cooling system of claim 12, wherein said impeller and said louver are configured to adjust said first strength, said first speed, said second strength, and said second speed such that said first fluid flow and said second fluid flow provide a resultant fluid flow.

17. The heating or cooling system of claim 12, wherein said resultant fluid flow is parallel to said first direction, parallel to said second direction, or between said first direction and said second direction.

18. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, wherein said heating or cooling system further comprises a hydronics system, wherein said hydronics system comprises a manifold.

19. The heating or cooling system of claim 18, wherein said manifold is configured to selectively direct movement of said working fluid through said fluid line.

20. The heating or cooling system of claim 18, wherein said hydronics system further comprises a hydronics working fluid, a hydronics fluid pump, or a hydronics fluid line.

21. The heating or cooling system of claim 20, wherein said hydronics working fluid comprises water, glycol, or a water-glycol mixture.

22. The heating or cooling system of claim 20, wherein said fluid pump is coupled to said hydronics fluid line, and wherein said hydronics fluid pump is configured to control movement of said hydronics working fluid through said hydronics fluid line.

23. The heating or cooling system of claim 2, wherein said at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the refrigerant unit and the hydronics unit.

24. The heating or cooling system of claim 2, wherein said at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the refrigerant unit and the fluid flow unit.

25. The heating or cooling system of claim 2, wherein said at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the hydronics unit and the fluid flow unit.

26. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, further comprising one or members selected from a group consisting of: an enthalpy recovery ventilator (ERV), a filter, an impulse, an external remote, a self-installation system, and a power unit.

27. The heating or cooling system of claim 1, further comprising a tracking unit or a controller unit.

28. The heating or cooling system of claim 27, wherein said controller unit is configured to articulate said louver based on input from said tracking unit.

29. The heating or cooling system of claim 27, wherein said controller unit is configured to modulate said impeller based on input from said tracking unit.

30. The heating or cooling system of claim 27, wherein said controller unit is configured to modulate a temperature of said resultant fluid flow based on input from said tracking unit.

31. A system, comprising: a plenum assembly; and a tracking unit operatively coupled to said plenum assembly; wherein said tracking unit is configured to track a location of a user within said enclosure, and wherein said plenum assembly is configured to direct a fluid to said location of said user.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein said plenum assembly is mounted on a wall of an enclosure.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein said enclosure comprises an interior space.

34. The system of claim 31, wherein said location of said user within said enclosure changes when said user moves within said enclosure.

35. The system of claim 31, wherein said fluid has a fluid temperature, a fluid flow rate, and a fluid flow direction, wherein said system is configured to control one or more of said temperature, said flow rate, and said flow direction to modulate a temperature of said user when said fluid reaches said location of said user.

36. A method of installing an air conditioning unit, comprising: a. providing said air conditioning unit, wherein said air conditioning unit comprises a refrigerant cycle, a test fluid, and a refrigerant working fluid; b. pressurizing said refrigerant cycle with said test fluid comprised in said pressurized vessel; c. testing said refrigerant cycle for nominal operation parameters; d. evacuating said test fluid from said refrigerant cycle; and e. pressurizing said refrigerant cycle with said refrigerant working fluid comprised in said pressurized vessel.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein said test fluid is provided in a pressurized vessel.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein said refrigerant working fluid is provided in a pressurized vessel.

39. The method of claim 36, wherein said refrigerant working fluid comprises carbon dioxide.

40. The method of claim 36, wherein said nominal operation parameters comprise a refrigerant working fluid temperature, a refrigerant working fluid pressure, or a refrigerant working fluid flow rate.

41. The method of claim 36, further comprising creating an opening in a wall, wherein said wall comprises an interior face and an exterior face.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising attaching an indoor mounting plate to said interior face and attaching an outdoor mounting plate to said exterior face.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising securing said indoor assembly to said indoor mounting plate and securing said outdoor assembly to said outdoor mounting plate.

44. The method of claim 42, further comprising coupling said indoor unit to said outdoor unit between said indoor mounting plate and said outdoor mounting plate.

45. The method of claim 36, wherein said air conditioning unit further comprises a hydronics cycle or a hydronics working fluid.

46. The method of claim 45, further comprising charging said hydronics cycle with said hydronics working fluid.

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