Humidification apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional furnace-mounted air humidifiers rely on electro-mechanical humidistats for automatic control, which can lead to health issues due to extreme humidity levels and mold formation, as they react to current conditions rather than anticipating future changes in outdoor temperature and humidity.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that monitor indoor and outdoor conditions, use weather forecast data, and adjust humidity levels proactively by calculating thermal performance coefficients and adjusting water flow through a self-tuning algorithm to maintain optimal humidity within set limits, preventing condensation and ensuring comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional electro-mechanical humidistats are used for automatic humidification control, then the system operates automatically based on current humidity levels, but the system cannot anticipate future outdoor temperature changes leading to over-humidification and condensation risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by obtaining weather forecast data and calculating forward projections of outdoor temperature and humidity levels before condensation risks occur. The controller proactively adjusts the humidification set point based on predicted conditions, preventing over-humidification and condensation rather than reacting after the problem arises.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring actual outdoor temperature and humidity levels, comparing them with forecast data, and using this information to dynamically adjust the humidification set point. This closed-loop control ensures the system responds to real environmental conditions while maintaining predictive capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If the humidifier operates continuously to maintain humidity above the set point, then indoor comfort is improved, but energy consumption increases and over-humidification may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by making the humidification set point adjustable and dynamic rather than fixed. The controller modifies the set point based on predicted outdoor conditions, building thermal properties, and current humidity levels, allowing the system to adapt humidification levels to actual needs and avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by adjusting the humidification set point based on multiple factors including outdoor temperature forecasts, building U-values, and current indoor humidity. This parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between comfort and energy efficiency by reducing humidification when outdoor conditions make it unnecessary.
3Ease of operation
If the humidification set point is raised to prevent dry air discomfort, then occupant comfort improves, but the risk of mold growth and condensation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by obtaining weather forecasts and calculating forward projections of outdoor temperature and humidity before condensation risks develop. This allows proactive adjustment of the humidification set point to prevent over-humidification that could lead to condensation and mold growth.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by monitoring actual outdoor conditions and comparing them with forecasts, then dynamically adjusting the humidification set point accordingly. This ensures comfort is maintained while preventing harmful condensation and mold risks through continuous adaptation to environmental conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If weather forecast data is obtained and processed through complex algorithms, then forward adjustment of humidity becomes possible, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary approach by obtaining weather forecast data from external sources and processing it through a controller that acts as a mediator between forecast data, building thermal properties, and humidifier control. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling sophisticated predictive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by automatically obtaining weather forecasts, calculating forward projections, determining appropriate humidification set points, and controlling the humidifier without requiring manual intervention. The controller autonomously processes all necessary calculations and adjustments based on building-specific thermal properties.
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
This approach effectively maintains optimal indoor humidity levels by anticipating outdoor temperature changes, reducing the risk of condensation and mold formation, while ensuring comfort and energy efficiency by adjusting humidity set points and water flow accordingly.
Implementation Method 1
the humidifier to add humidity
Implementation Method 2
If the temperature of that surface is below the dew point temperature of the internal air, condensate will form
Data Source
AI summary
An humidification apparatus establishes geometric properties for humidity loss from a structure relative to inside and outside temperatures and historic performance of that building structure. The humidification apparatus also stores data establishing acceptable relative humidity ranges for the internal and external ambient temperature conditions to which the building structure is exposed. The humidification apparatus obtains weather forecast data for the geographic location of the building. A user inputs a desired level of relative humidity. The humidification apparatus controller then adjusts humidity inside the building according to that input and according to the permissible humidity range for the building in the prevailing external temperature conditions and the weather forecast data.