Sound attenuating air handler panel apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Air handlers in HVAC&R systems generate excessive noise, which is transmitted to building spaces, and existing noise reduction methods often increase size and complexity, reducing efficiency by lowering air pressure.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of sound-attenuating panels or walls within the air handler's plenum that absorb or reflect sound waves without significantly reducing air pressure, allowing for their use in new or existing systems and retrofits, with the option to upgrade fans to maintain pressure if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If sound-attenuating components are added to reduce noise, then noise levels are reduced, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sound-attenuating panel is integrated directly into the plenum structure of the air handler, merging the noise reduction function with the existing air handling components. This eliminates the need for separate, additional noise reduction devices and reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The plenum structure is designed to serve multiple functions: air handling and sound attenuation. By making the plenum itself sound-attenuating, the system achieves multi-functionality without adding separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining noise reduction benefits.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sound-attenuating components are added to reduce noise, then noise levels are reduced, but air pressure decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sound-attenuating panel is positioned specifically within the plenum where sound transmission occurs, rather than placing resistance elements in the main air flow path. This localized approach allows sound attenuation without significantly impeding air pressure and flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The plenum acts as an intermediary structure that allows sound attenuation to occur without directly interfering with the main air flow path. The sound-attenuating panel within the plenum mediates between noise reduction requirements and air pressure maintenance, achieving both goals simultaneously.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If existing air handlers are retrofitted with sound attenuation, then noise levels are reduced, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sound-attenuating panel is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently installed within the existing plenum structure. This segmentation allows for easier retrofitting without requiring complete disassembly or modification of the entire air handler system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sound-attenuating panel is nested within the existing plenum structure of the air handler, fitting into the available space without requiring external additions or major structural modifications. This nesting approach simplifies retrofit installation while achieving noise reduction goals.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively reduces noise levels in building spaces by absorbing sound waves while maintaining air pressure, offering a cost-effective solution for both new and existing air handlers.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of sound-attenuating panels or walls are located in the air handler in the air passageway
Implementation Method 2
panels that absorb or reflect sound waves
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are directed to an air handler that reduces noise without reducing the pressure of air supplied to a space below minimum levels. The air handler includes a plenum forming a passageway for air. The plenum has a return side, a supply side, a fan within the plenum having a suction side and a pressure side to move air through the plenum, and a conditioning apparatus in the plenum for conditioning air through the plenum. The air handler further includes a sound-attenuating panel having a first side and an opposed second side that extend at least partially across the plenum. The panel is configured and positioned to interact with the flow of air to attenuate sound. The fan provides a pressure boost to air flowing through the plenum to counteract a pressure drop resulting from interaction between the air, the panel, and the conditioning apparatus.