Condensation control system with radiant heating and related method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Condensation on objects in spaces leads to issues like dampness, surface degradation, mold growth, and corrosion, particularly in unconditioned industrial areas and high-humidity environments, where existing fan systems fail to effectively prevent its formation.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a fan, sensors for surface and air temperature, and a controller that regulates fan operation and optional heating to prevent condensation by circulating air when the indoor air temperature is above the surface temperature or dew point, and introduces outdoor air to reduce humidity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a fan system is used to circulate air in unconditioned industrial spaces, then air circulation is improved, but condensation control effectiveness deteriorates because the system lacks temperature monitoring and conditional operation capabilities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveair circulationVSAvoidcondensation control effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by monitoring surface temperature and air temperature continuously and activating the fan before condensation actually forms. The controller predicts condensation risk by comparing surface temperature to dew point temperature calculated from air temperature and relative humidity, enabling preventive air circulation rather than reactive response.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback through temperature sensors that continuously monitor surface temperature and air temperature, with the controller adjusting fan operation based on real-time temperature differential and condensation risk assessment. The fan operates when the surface temperature is within a threshold of the dew point temperature, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If continuous fan operation is used to prevent condensation, then condensation control is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecondensation preventionVSAvoidfan energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies dynamics by transitioning from static continuous fan operation to dynamic conditional operation. The fan speed and operation state are continuously adjusted based on real-time temperature measurements and calculated dew point temperature, allowing the system to operate at full capacity only when condensation risk is detected while maintaining energy efficiency during low-risk periods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by activating the fan based on temperature differential thresholds and dew point calculations rather than continuous operation. The controller monitors surface temperature, air temperature, and relative humidity to dynamically adjust fan operation, ensuring energy-efficient condensation prevention through parameter-based control rather than constant operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If no temperature monitoring is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to detect and respond to condensation risk deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem structureVSAvoidcondensation risk detection

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces complex mechanical condensation control mechanisms with electronic sensing and computational control. Temperature sensors and a controller with dew point calculation algorithms substitute for mechanical humidification or ventilation systems, providing precise condensation risk detection through electronic temperature monitoring and mathematical analysis of temperature-humidity relationships.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 prevents condensation on surfaces by controlling air circulation and humidity, reducing the risk of damage and maintenance costs in various environments.

Implementation Method 1

a fan for circulating the air within the indoor area

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir circulation: Convection

Implementation Method 2

Optional heating (e.g., radiant heating of the surface, or heating of the air)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadiant heating: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS11175081B1Condensation control system with radiant heating and related method

Publication Date: 2021.11.16 DELTA T CORP

AI summary

A system for controlling the circulation of air in an indoor area of a structure including a door or window. A fan for circulating the air within the indoor area is combined with a first sensor for sensing a temperature of a surface of an object in the indoor area. A controller controls the operation of the fan based on the surface temperature sensed by the first sensor, and also regulates a radiant heater for heating the surface or the object. The controller may also or alternatively be adapted for controlling the fan based on an indication that it is raining external to the structure, an HVAC unit, or a dehumidifier. Related methods are also disclosed.