Building Pathogen Detection With Location-Based Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building management systems lack effective mechanisms for detecting and mitigating pathogen infections within buildings, particularly in real-time and with targeted responses based on pathogen presence and location.
Innovation Solution
A pathogen detection system with multiple detectors positioned throughout a building, processing circuitry to analyze detection data, and responsive actions including messaging, control of HVAC systems, disinfection, and alert systems to mitigate infection risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pathogen detectors are positioned throughout the building to enable real-time detection, then detection coverage and response time are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into multiple zones with detectors strategically positioned in high-traffic areas, entrances, and critical spaces. This segmentation approach enables comprehensive coverage while optimizing the number of detectors needed, balancing detection reliability with system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pathogen detection system is integrated with the existing building management system, allowing it to perform multiple functions including detection, alerting, HVAC control, and record-keeping through a unified platform. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite adding detection capabilities.
2Productivity
If automated responsive actions are implemented based on pathogen detection, then response time and infection mitigation effectiveness are improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Pre-configured responsive actions are established in advance for different pathogen detection scenarios. When a pathogen is detected, the system automatically executes predetermined actions such as HVAC adjustments, alerts, and notifications, eliminating the need for complex real-time decision-making logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors pathogen levels and adjusts responsive actions based on real-time feedback from detectors. This closed-loop control enables automated response while maintaining simplicity through rule-based adjustments rather than complex algorithms.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If targeted responsive actions are implemented based on pathogen location and type, then infection risk reduction effectiveness is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Responsive actions are tailored to the specific location and type of pathogen detected. Different zones receive customized responses based on their characteristics and the detected pathogen, optimizing infection risk reduction while using simple location-based routing logic rather than complex processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A pathogen detection system for a building includes multiple pathogen detectors positioned in the building at different locations. The pathogen detectors are configured to output detection data including a detected presence of a pathogen. The pathogen detection system includes processing circuitry configured to obtain the detection data from the pathogen detectors. The processing circuitry is also configured to determine a responsive action based on the detected presence of the pathogen, and the locations. The responsive action includes a magnitude of effect and a magnitude of locality. The processing circuitry is configured to perform the responsive action or initiate the responsive action.