Distributed MEMS HVAC Control for Multi-Zone Temperature Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building control systems are inefficient due to limited sensing capabilities, leading to temperature fluctuations and increased energy consumption, as they lack comprehensive understanding of building activities and environmental factors, resulting in higher costs and reduced comfort.
Innovation Solution
An integrated distributed micro electromechanical system (MEMS) based control system that uses a network of MEMS modules to sense conditions and control conditioned air distribution, incorporating sensors close to heat sources for rapid moderation and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single HVAC unit is used to provide conditioned air to several different floors, then material cost is reduced, but efficiency decreases and space requirements increase due to ducting and insulation needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the building into multiple zones with separate HVAC units distributed throughout the building, with each zone having its own temperature control. This segmentation eliminates the need for extensive ducting between floors while maintaining or improving efficiency through localized control.
2Device complexity
If HVAC systems operate reactively based on sensed out of limits conditions, then simple control logic is used, but temperature variances increase and energy consumption rises
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by anticipating temperature changes before they occur. Multiple temperature sensors detect trends and trigger HVAC operation in advance, preventing extreme temperature deviations and reducing the energy needed for corrective heating or cooling.
3Quantity of substance
If a limited number of expensive sensors are used, then cost is reduced, but temperature differentials throughout the space increase, reducing comfort and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple low-cost temperature sensors distributed throughout the building instead of relying on a single expensive sensor. These inexpensive sensors provide comprehensive temperature data across multiple zones, enabling precise local control that improves overall temperature uniformity and comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated distributed control system incorporates a plurality of micro electromechanical system (MEMS) modules formed into a functional network which is in turn integrated into a management network. The functional network is configured to sense a condition such as an operating characteristic of a machine or the temperature within an area and to provide control functions to effect changes in the condition.