Fan array for HVAC system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional HVAC systems experience increased pressure losses and energy consumption due to the use of single fans and fan orifices, which lead to inefficiencies in air flow direction changes and larger system sizes, making them difficult to transport and operate at low capacities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an array of small, independently controlled fans positioned adjacent to or coupled with heat exchanger coils to enhance airflow control and reduce energy consumption by eliminating the need for large motors and components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional single fan and fan orifice are used, then the system can move air, but pressure losses increase and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single fan system into multiple smaller fans arranged in an array. Each fan handles a portion of the total airflow, reducing the pressure loss associated with large single fans while maintaining overall airflow efficiency. The segmented fan array allows air to be moved more efficiently across the heat exchanger coils.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point fan configuration to a distributed array configuration across the heat exchanger surface. This dimensional change allows airflow to be optimized across multiple zones simultaneously, reducing pressure losses and improving overall energy efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If traditional fan and fan orifice configuration is used, then air can be directed across heat exchanger, but system size increases and transportation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is divided into multiple sections with fans distributed across them. This segmentation allows the system to maintain effective airflow control while reducing the overall system footprint compared to traditional centralized fan configurations, making the unit more compact and easier to transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan array configuration allows for dynamic airflow management where individual fans can be controlled to optimize performance for different operating conditions. This dynamic control capability is achieved in a more compact form factor than traditional systems.
3Productivity
If traditional fan orifice is used, then air flow is moved, but pressure losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the airflow path into multiple smaller channels with individual fans, the pressure loss in each channel is reduced. The cumulative effect of multiple low-pressure-loss paths is greater than a single high-pressure-loss path, maintaining airflow productivity while reducing overall pressure losses.
Solution Approach 2:
Each fan in the array is positioned to create locally optimized airflow patterns across specific sections of the heat exchanger. This local quality optimization ensures efficient airflow movement with minimized pressure losses in each zone, contributing to overall system performance.
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 fan array increases the efficiency of heat exchangers, reduces energy consumption, and allows for a more compact HVAC system design by optimizing airflow and minimizing pressure drops, facilitating easier transportation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
the array of fans is configured to blow the second airflow across the coil of the second heat exchanger
Implementation Method 2
the heat exchanger is configured to place the airflow and the refrigerant in thermal communication with one another
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a heating and cooling system includes a heat exchanger configured to place an airflow and a refrigerant in thermal communication with one another, where the heat exchanger has a coil and a plurality of fans coupled to the coil, and where the plurality of fans is arranged in an array adjacent to the coil.