Chilled Beam Fin Structure with Integrated Lighting and Coanda Effect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chilled beams often block light sources and can generate condensation that drips on individuals below them, especially in low water temperature or high humidity conditions, which affects both lighting and temperature control in HVAC systems.
Innovation Solution
A chilled beam design incorporating a fin structure to create a Coanda effect for air flow modification, integrating a cooling coil and lighting within the fins, along with a control system for humidity and temperature management, including direct and indirect lighting, and a controller for managing heated or chilled water flow to prevent condensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If chilled beam is used to provide cooled air, then cooling function is improved, but light sources are blocked and condensation is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the chilled beam structure with lighting fixtures by integrating lights into the beam assembly, allowing cooling and illumination functions to coexist in a single integrated component rather than separate elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directs air flow along the ceiling surface (horizontal dimension) rather than directly downward (vertical dimension), using the Coanda effect to maintain separation between the cooling air stream and the lighting area below
2Productivity
If chilled beam operates in low water temperature or high humidity conditions, then cooling efficiency is improved, but condensation is generated that drips on persons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces heated water as an intermediary substance that flows through heating coils positioned to warm the outer surface of the chilled beam, creating a thermal barrier that prevents condensation while allowing the internal cooling function to operate at high efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the beam's external surface by introducing a separate heating system, maintaining the surface temperature above the dew point while allowing the internal cooling water to operate at low temperatures for high cooling efficiency
3Area of stationary object
If chilled beam directs air flow downward, then cooling coverage is improved, but drafts are created that affect comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the air flow direction from vertical (downward) to horizontal (along the ceiling), using the Coanda effect to attach the air stream to the ceiling surface and redirect it laterally to provide cooling coverage without creating downward drafts
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
The solution effectively directs air flow to avoid drafts, provides both direct and indirect lighting, and prevents condensation by controlling humidity and temperature, enhancing climate control and user comfort while maintaining ambient lighting.
Implementation Method 1
A chilled beam is disclosed that uses a fin structure to create a Coanda effect, to modify the flow of air from the chilled beam from a vent disposed in the fin structure
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprising a fin structure, a vent disposed in the fin structure, a cooling coil disposed in the vent, a light disposed in the fin structure and wherein the fin structure is configured to create a Coanda effect for air exiting the vent.