Methods and systems for the identification and quantification of air quality

Abstract

A method for categorizing a mold risk within a occupiable space, the method compris- ing the steps of: measuring environmental data using a plurality of sensors within said occupiable space; determining a mold index for the occupiable space based upon a com- bination of said environmental data; providing a mold index scale, said scale including environmental categories corresponding to different mold indices; comparing the mold index with the mold index scale, and so; categorizing the mold risk of the occupiable space.

Description

[0001] METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR THE IDENTIFICATION AND QUANTIFICATION OF AIR QUALITY

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The invention relates to the measurement of air quality parameters in an occupiable space. In particular, the invention relates to use of such parameters to improve air quality in said occupiable space.

[0004] Background

[0005] Residential, commercial and educational facilities represent excellent opportunities for the spread of disease, given the enclosed spaces, and close human interaction. Whilst these facilities may include HVAC systems, such systems do not, in themselves, mitigate the spread of virus, mold spores or bacteria. In fact, without a measure as to the risk posed, HVAC may even facilitate the spread of mold spores through providing ideal conditions for a high survival and spread rate.

[0006] Summary of Invention

[0007] In a first aspect, the invention provides a method for categorizing a risk within a occupiable space, the method comprising the steps of: measuring environmental data using a plurality of sensors within said occupiable space; determining a mold index for the occupiable space based upon a combination of said environmental data; providing a moldindex scale, said scale including environmental categories corresponding to different mold indices; comparing the mold index with the mold index scale, and so; categorizing the risk of the oecupiable space.

[0008] Tn a second aspect, the invention provides a system for categorizing a risk within a oe¬ cupiable space, the system comprising: a plurality of sensors arranged to measure environmental data within said oecupiable space; a determination unit arranged to determine a mold index for the oecupiable space based upon a combination of said environmental data; a mold index scale, said scale including environmental categories corresponding to different mold indices; a comparison unit arranged to compare the mold index with the mold index scale, and further arranged to categorize the risk of the oecupiable space.

[0009] A risk for instance may be defined by several key factors, in

[0010] a) The environmental conditions that may promote the time of survival, and; b) The ease by which mold may be transported by air, both in terms of the environmental conditions mentioned in (a) as well as the flow rate within the space. c) The ease by which mold may be transmitted via touch if mold spores stay / survive on a surface (i.e. table, chair, laptop, etc.).

[0011] For instance, having an environment where the risk is low in a first space, but the rate at which mold spores may be transported by air, as well as the survival rate, may lead to a subsequent space becoming contaminated.The invention therefore provides a means of determining an index that may provide an objective measure for risk based upon measuring a series of environmental parameters to collect environmental data aimed at one or both of the factors mentioned above.

[0012] Further, the invention may further include a pre-determined mold index scale, perhaps ranging from 1 to 10, with each increment, or a range of increments, of the index indicating a different mold risk state for the space under consideration. This information may then be provided to key stakeholders for information purposes or for corrective action should the scale indicate a threshold has been exceeded.

[0013] Brief Description of Drawings

[0014] It will be convenient to further describe the present invention with respect to the accompanying drawings that illustrate possible arrangements of the invention. Other arrangements of the invention are possible and consequently, the particularity of the accompanying drawings is not to be understood as superseding the generality of the preceding description of the invention.

[0015] Figure 1 is a flow chart for a process according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figure 2 is a schematic view of mold index comparison system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0017] Figure 3 is a schematic view of mold index comparison system according to a further embodiment of the present invention.Detailed Description

[0018] The invention is directed to the identification of a risk within an occupiable space. Such an occupiable space may be:

[0019] i) Indoor including confined spaces for residential, commercial and industrial use; ii) Outdoor including open areas, amphitheatres, alfresco dining areas iii) Quasi-indoor / outdoor area such as courtyards and open-air restaurants, and; iv) Transitory spaces having short term occupation, and perhaps include environments conducive to a high mold index, such as cool rooms, control rooms and lift shafts.

[0020] In terms of risk, this may include conditions where mold has favorable conditions to grow on a surface. Risk may further apply to the risk of airborne mold being widely distributed through the occupiable space. This may be a function of distribution by airflow, providing speed of transport, and conditions which promote the mold remaining active for an extended period, such that the distribution of the active mold spores can reach substantial proportion of the occupiable space.

[0021] The invention relates to two systems which may be used in isolation or together.

[0022] Firstly, and as shown in Figure 1, data is measured 10 from a plurality of sensors located about an occupiable space. The sensors may be interconnected to form a sensorarray, or may be existing sensors which are subsequently connected to form a system upon which data is collected. The occupiable space may have a residential, commercial, industrial or educational function. A mold index for that occupiable space is determined 15 by a determination unit based upon the measured environmental data, and is subsequently compared to a Mold Index Scale, providing a rating or category for each Mold Index, or a range of indices. Then, the index and / or the comparison with the pre-deter-mincd scale, is then communicated to the various stakeholders. The comparison may then define a risk for the occupiable space. When communicated, the various stakeholders may then decide upon a suitable cause of action.

[0023] Secondly, on receiving a mold index and a comparison made with the pre-determined scale, the conununication step may include sending a signal to a control system in operational communication with various plant and equipment. The control system may then assess the operational steps required to reduce a risk, from mild to severe, including any other condition other than safe / good. The system may be further triggered to pre-empt a risk such that, even though the rating is good, it may be desired to further reduce the risk and prevent it from going to mild risk. i.e. index of 1 to 3 is good, but when it’s at 3, people may already trigger action to bring it down to 1 or 2.

[0024] The control system may act autonomously to operate the plant and equipment to control the mold index. Alternatively, the control system may be used by an operator to exercise control over the plant and equipment. Alternatively, the control system may provide the assessed operational steps to the operator, for approval or for manual operation.It will be appreciated that any one, or a combination, of the determination unit, comparison unit and communication unit may form part of the control system.

[0025] Referring to Figure 2, an occupiable space 35, according to one embodiment, may be a large atrium type arrangement such as an amphitheatre, lecture hall or library. It may also extend to an indoor space having a plurality of sub-zones, such an office building with multiple offices. In cither case, the mold may be distributed through an HVAC system, or stay suspended in the air in one location, or simply move from one area to another or from one space to another by floating in the air (without going through the HVAC). Using a sensor array 40, it will be appreciated that the environmental data collected in one or more locations within the occupiable space, or within each sub-zone, or within the HVAC system. The data from each location may be used separately, or in combination, in order to determine measured environmental parameters in said occupiable space, sub-zones of the occupiable space, or HVAC system active within said occupiable space.

[0026] In one embodiment, having measured the environmental parameters, the data may be used to generate a mold index, or simply a mold index, being a dimensionless measure of the ability of the mold spores to survive within the occupiable space. The index based upon the measured data is then compared 45, a comparison unit, to a mold index scale 50 providing a measure of the ability of the mold to propagate. An example of said mold index scale is shown in Table 1 below.In a further embodiment, the comparison unit may then communicate 60 the measured mold index to a communication module 55. For instance, the index and / or comparison may be publicly displayed for use within the occupiable space. For instance, a device or screen may include;

[0027] i) A colour based on the risk, for instance:

[0028] a. green where the risk is in a range that is considered safe or good, b. yellow and / or orange for risks between safe and unsafe, or for a rapidly changing risk, and

[0029] c. red for a severe or unsafe risk;

[0030] ii) A number corresponding to the mold index;

[0031] iii) An aural warning such as an alarm, or recorded audio message, when the risk is unsafe, or rapidly changing;

[0032] iv) A visual warning including on a digital screen (e.g. phone, laptop, television, public display screen etc), providing text corresponding to a descriptor from the mold index scale corresponding to the cunent risk, or;

[0033] v) A combination of any of the above.

[0034] Alternatively, a system according to the present invention may digitally communicate the index and / or comparison, such as through the internet, SMS or various forms of social media. Interested parties for receiving said index and / or comparison may also include management personnel responsible for managing the occupiable space. Saidmanagement personnel may also include those authorized to control various plant and equipment. Said plant and equipment may include air handling units, external ventilation, louvres, HVAC systems or other such plant and equipment which may affect any / or all of the environmental perimeters used to determine the index.

[0035] Shown in Figure 3 is a further embodiment, where the sensor array 40 collects data within the occupiablc space and makes the comparison as discussed above. Instead of a communication unit, the mold index and comparison arc sent to a control system 65 to be used to operate plant and equipment in a manner to control the mold index. The index and / or comparison may be used by the control system 65 which may automatically control said plant and equipment 70, either autonomously or semi-autonomously, such as requiring final approval to make changes to the plant and equipment.

[0036] In one embodiment, the sensor array may measure any one or a combination of parameters including temperature and humidity. Further embodiments may also include measuring other parameters, including any one or a combination of CO2, carbon monoxide, Particulate Matter (of various sizes), nitrogen dioxide, ozone, air pressure, within the occupiable space and VOCs. It will be appreciated that, for the purposes of determining the mold index, the important parameters may include temperature and humidity. Other parameters may add further accuracy, situational relevance, mold applicability and / or location specific necessity to the determined mold index, such as PM2.5, PM1, nitrogen dioxide, and CO2.When the parameters are taken in isolation, ideal ranges are provided below. The Mold Index is directed to assessing the combination of these parameters so as to affect decision making and implement appropriate action.

[0037] 1. Temperature: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)

[0038] Maintaining temperature at the ideal level not only lessens the risk of mold transmission but also keeps people comfortable indoors.

[0039] Mold thrives in warm, humid environments. By maintaining optimal indoor temperatures, ideally between 20°C to 25°C,

[0040] particularly during periods of high humidity, an environment that is less conducive to mold proliferation can be created. However, it's important to note that extremely low temperatures may not completely eliminate mold but rather slow its growth and development.

[0041] 2. Relative Humidity: 30% to 50%

[0042] In environments with lower Relative Humidity (RH), droplets from a cough or a sneeze lose their moisture quickly. This results in droplets becoming ‘dry aerosols’ and capable of staying in the air for longer periods. Mold particles retain their infectiousness the further from that median value, Keeping the humidity at the ideal range not only helps people stay comfortable but also keeps people healthy. Low humidity may promote dry nasal passage which makes people more susceptible to cold viruses while high humidity' may promote mold growth which can be harmful to people with weakened immune systems.By maintaining indoor humidity levels below 60%, ideally between 30% and 50%, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of mold proliferation. This can be achieved through the use of dehumidifiers, proper ventilation, and controlling moisture-generating activities such as cooking and bathing. By addressing relative humidity, a less hospitable environment for mold can be created to protect indoor spaces better.

[0043] 3. PM1: Below 15μg / m3

[0044] Particulate Matter also known as “Particle Pollution” is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets. Mold arc mostly 3 or 4 microns in size but can alsdo be smaller or latch onto particles that are larger in size.

[0045] PM1, often originating from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and wildfires, can act as carriers for mold spores. By attaching to these tiny particles, mold spores can travel further and more easily, increasing their dispersal and the likelihood of landing on suitable surfaces for growth. Moreover, PM1 can contribute to increased humidity levels in the atmosphere, creating a more favorable environment for mold development.

[0046] 4. PM2.5: Below 15μg / m3

[0047] Particulate Matter at 2.5 microns in size or smaller can be inhaled deep into the lungs and cause irritation and corrosion of the alveolar wall, which impairs lung function. These particles are small enough to stay suspended in the air. An increased vulnerability to influenza-like illnesses when levels of PM2.5 were above the ideal range. Data suggest that PM2.5 stays airborne longer, creating a “condensation nuclei” which moldspores attach to. These are then inhaled by people, resulting in infection. Thus, it is best to keep PM2.5 levels low to minimize risk of infection. Examples of sources of PM2.5 indoors: smoking, cooking, candles, space heaters, furnaces, and poorly-maintained HVAC system.

[0048] 5. PM4: Below 15μg / m3

[0049] Mold is generally 3 to 4 microns in size. PM4 measures particles 4 microns or smaller in size thereby providing a good indication of the presence of particles floating in the air that may actually be mold. It is best to keep PM4 measurements within the ideal range to reduce the likelihood of mold floating in the air.

[0050] 6. PM10: Below 45μg / m3

[0051] PM 10 particles, particularly those containing organic matter, can contribute to mold growth by providing a nutrient source. These particles, often originating from soil, pollen, or biological debris, can settle on surfaces and create a favorable environment for mold spores to germinate and proliferate. Additionally, PM10 can block sunlight, reduce the drying effect of sunlight on surfaces, and absorb moisture from the air, further increasing humidity levels, both of which are conducive to mold growth.

[0052] 7. Carbon Dioxide: Below 800ppm

[0053] Carbon Dioxide has long been used as an indicator of good indoor air quality primarily because of its association with ventilation. When carbon dioxide levels are high, it may indicate that the space is not well ventilated. Increased CO levels can lead to poor airquality and reduced ventilation which can trap moisture and create stagnant air, both of which are ideal conditions for mold. The ideal level of CO2 is needed to reduce the risk of lung inflammation. Chronic inflammation caused by persistent high CO2 levels is not ideal for health. Moreover, longer exposure to high CO2 can cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. It is also possible to develop hypercapnia acidosis, characterized by increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. This may suppress immune function and may make one more susceptible to disease. Some causes of carbon dioxide elevation indoors: improperly maintained combustion devices and poor ventilation.

[0054] 8. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Below 53ppb

[0055] High levels of Nitrogen Dioxide indoors may result from outdoor NO2 entering an indoor environment as well as combustion sources inside the home / workplace. Shortterm exposure may irritate airways while long-term exposure may lead to chronic illness and respiratory infections with mold. Asthmatics may also experience longer symptomatic periods and increased medication use for children. Examples of sources of nitrogen dioxide: Automobiles from attached garage or near a busy street, appliances with defective installations, gas stoves, kerosene heaters, chimneys, etc.

[0056] 9. VOCs

[0057] Some VOCs can act as nutrients for certain mold species, supporting their growth and proliferation. Conversely, other VOCs may have antimicrobial properties, inhibitingmold growth. Additionally, some VOCs can alter the environmental conditions that favor mold growth, such as by increasing humidity or modifying the pH of the surrounding environment.

[0058] 10. Light Exposure

[0059] By allowing ample natural light into indoor spaces, individuals can create an environment less conducive to mold development. Additionally, sunlight helps to dry damp areas, reducing the moisture levels that mold requires to thrive. However, it's important to note that while sunlight is a natural deterrent, it may not be sufficient to eliminate existing mold infestations, especially in areas with limited light exposure or persistent moisture issues.

[0060] The thresholds set in the Mold Index are different from default air quality safety thresholds based on the US EPA, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, among others. The Mold Index thresholds are designed to assess the risk of mold risk in your indoor environment. It considers various parameters that contribute to mold proliferation. The index provides practical advice on reducing mold risk depending on your location and environmental conditions. The Mold Index offers a more targeted approach to addressing mold-related concerns and has more specific guidelines towards mold risk compared to the air quality safety thresholds set by the mentioned organizations.

[0061] The sensor array may reside within a single device strategically placed to provide an optimize collection of data.Alternatively, one or more sensors within the sensor array may be remote from the other sensors. Such isolated sensors may direct data to the Determination Unit in a wired or wireless fashion, including via the internet.

[0062] Data is processed when the sensor senses the air and outputs raw data from it. The raw data may be retrieved via firmware of the Determination Unit, and calibrated using algorithms based on scientific analysis of sensor responses and characteristic in specific laboratory settings. Accuracy of calibrated data may be enhanced by giving a tighter tolerance. For example, if the original temperature sensor has a tolerance / accuracy of plus minus 0.5°C.

[0063] Firmware calibrated data may be further processed in a cloud-based server. Calibrated Data may be stored in a database and tagged to every device to which the system for which the sensor reading is associated with the serial number of the device so it can be retrieved from the database. Calibrated Data may be accessible by the user when they login to their accounts in a respective app or dashboard.

[0064] Tn determining the Mold Index, several data processing techniques may be used. The algorithm used to generate the Mold Index may vary on the data being used, and the application of the eventual index. For instance, such processing may include:i) Time period based rolling averages, for various time periods, for example, Is, 5s, Imin, 5min, 60mins etc;

[0065] ii) Weighted time-based rolling average, where a factor is applied to the most recent data. This may be useful where conditions are changing rapidly, with the most recent data being more relevant;

[0066] iii) Parameter weighted, whereby each parameter is weighted according to its relative importance for the index being determined. This alternative may then use either (i) or (ii) in addition to the respective weighted parameter;

[0067] iv) An empirical formula based upon a combination of a regression of each of at least two environmental parameters, or;

[0068] v) Some other formulation relevant to the parameter being used and the application of the index.

[0069] The system, in determining the index, may communicate advisory communications (email, sms, whatsapp, etc.) to users, such as, “CO2 levels are too high, adjust your ventilation system to bring in fresh air.” or “Humidity is above 70% for 5 hours now, mold may start to form in your living room. Switch on a dehumidifier.”The system may be directed to providing thresholds which are tighter I stricter compared to standard air quality safety thresholds. Standard air quality safety thresholds may be based on triggering health ailments when exposed to a certain period of time. As an example, the thresholds for the Mold Index may be directed to the survival rate of mold in the air. It may be made stricter / tighter to make mold spores inactive. The Mold Index combines these parameters into one number that indicates the likelihood of mold propagation I activation / survival, which need to be assessed based on multiple parameters all at once and not one parameter at a time. The Mold Index is not a summation, but a combination.

[0070] For example, when humidity levels are at 80%, the system triggers a dehumidifier to switch on and bring humidity down. Once the ideal humidity level based on the Mold Index is reached, which may be 50%, the system can automatically trigger to switch off the dehumidifier.

[0071] An example of a Mold Index Scale may be found in Table 1. In this case, the highest score is 10. The lower the score, the better.Good (1-3) WIild (4“6) Bad (7-8) Severe (9-10)

[0072] Mold surModerate number of mold is Molds are likely to be Molds are highly vival is low growing and can be detected present and may be visu likely to be present and spreadwith a microscope. Based in ally detectable (coverage and are very likel y ing of the the Hukka and Viitanen expectancy >50%). Mold to be detected by the mold spores mathematical mold index, survival is prolonged and naked eye (coverage m the air this indicates a coverage exlikelihood of the mold expectancy >50% to unlikely. pectancy of910%. Mold spores spreading in the 100%). Mold surMold spores survival is moderate and the air is higher. Air quality vival is high and the may remain mold spores spreading in the poses some health risk. mold spores spreaddormant but air is possible but air quality Critical assessment of ing in the air is are unlikely poses little to almost no diyour air quality is neceslikely. Air quality to germinate rect health risk tor people sary and actions to imwould affect most and who are usually not sensitive prove air quality is repeople and actions to air pollution, Sensitive quired. io impove air qualpeople may experience ity is necessary. health effects. More attention to air quality should be

[0073] given and actions to improve

[0074] air quality is recommended.

[0075]

[0076] Table 1: Mold Index ScaleIsometric lines alone will not indicate the overall picture because it means the information, when viewed in isolation from other parameters is incomplete and misleading. This silo view is removed and analysis is performed on all parameters together to provide one index.

[0077] For the various parameters described, the plant and equipment operated by the Determination Unit, based upon the index include, but not limited to:

[0078] • Temperature: Air handling unit

[0079] • Humidity: A dehumidifier

[0080] • PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM 10: Each of an air purifier, air filter, ventilation

[0081] • CO2: Ventilation equipment including range hood in the kitchen, exhaust in toilets, windows across the house, HVAC across the house / building, air intake louvers etc.

[0082] • NO2: Specially modified air purifiers with carbon filter, as well as ventilation equipment as described above, closing windows, removing combustion or burning things in the home / office I building

[0083] To effectively prevent mold growth, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Control measures can be classified into four categories:

[0084] 1. Moisture control

[0085] One of the primary factors contributing to mold growth is excessive moisture. To mitigate this, it is crucial to reduce humidity levels through the use of dehumidifiers or by increasing ventilation with exhaust fans, particularly in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Promptly addressing water leaks and ensuring proper drainage systems are essential to prevent water accumulation.2. Ventilation

[0086] Adequate ventilation is crucial for reducing humidity levels and preventing mold growth. This can be achieved through the use of exhaust fans, opening windows, and installing whole-house ventilation systems. Proper ventilation in attics, crawl spaces, and enclosed spaces is particularly important.

[0087] 3. Regular cleaning and maintenance

[0088] Regular cleaning is essential to remove mold spores and prevent their growth. Surfaces should be cleaned with mold-resistant cleaning products. It is also important to inspect for signs of mold growth, such as discoloration, musty odors, or visible mold. In cases of significant mold infestations, professional mold remediation may be necessary.

[0089] 4. Material selection

[0090] Selecting mold-resistant building materials can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth. Mold-resistant drywall and paint are excellent choices for construction and renovation projects. Additionally, proper storage of items can help prevent moisture buildup and subsequent mold growth. Using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets can further reduce humidity levels in storage areas.

[0091] Having a proactive and comprehensive IAQ management plan is particularly helpful where an administrative officer or an IAQ officer can identify key performance indicators based on the needs and purpose of an indoor space. This also ensures that the IAQ strategics that will be employed arc specifically suited to the identified issues. Moreover, this makes it easier to institutionalize control measures as a normal part of operalions.

Claims

Claims1. A method for categorizing a mold risk within a occupiable space, the method comprising the steps of:measuring environmental data using a plurality of sensors within said occupiable space;determining a mold index for the occupiable space based upon a combination of said environmental data;providing a mold index scale, said scale including environmental categories cor¬ responding to different mold indices;comparing the mold index with the mold index scale, and so;categorizing the mold risk of the occupiable space.The method according to claim 1, further including the step of communicating the mold risk to stakeholders.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the communicating step includes dis- playing any one or a combination of colour, mold index, visual display or aural warning, corresponding to the mold risk.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the communicating step includes the step of sending a signal to a control system;said control system then assessing operational steps required to reduce a mold risk.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the communicating step includes the step of sending a signal to a control system;said control system then assessing operational steps required to maintain a safe mold risk condition.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, further including the step of the control system operating equipment to reduce the severe mold risk.The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the environmental data includes levels for at least temperature and humidity.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the environmental data further in- cludes levels for any one or a combination of: PM2.5, PM1, PM4, PM10, and CO2.

9. A system for categorizing a mold risk within a occupiable space, the system comprising:a plurality of sensors arranged to measure environmental data within said occu-piable space;a determination unit arranged to determine a mold index for the occupiable space based upon a combination of said environmental data;a mold index scale, said scale including environmental categories corresponding to different mold indices;a comparison unit arranged to compare the mold index with the mold index scale, and further arranged to categorize the mold risk of the occupiable space.

10. The system according to claim 9. further including a communication unit arranged to communicate the mold risk to stakeholders.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the communication unit includes a public display system arranged to display any one or a combination of colour, mold index or sound, corresponding to the mold risk.

12. The system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the communication unit is ar¬ ranged to send a signal to a control system;said control system arranged to assess operational steps required to reduce a se¬ vere mold risk.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the control system is arranged to operate equipment to reduce the severe mold risk.

14. The system according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the environmental data includes levels for at least temperature and humidity.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the environmental data further in cludes levels for any one or a combination of: PM2.5, PM1, PM4, PM10, and

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