Systems and methods with variable mitigation thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current indoor air quality (IAQ) systems in buildings lack efficient methods to dynamically adjust mitigation device operations based on real-time air quality parameters, leading to potential over-use or under-use of systems and inadequate air quality control.
Innovation Solution
An IAQ system that includes sensors to measure particulate, VOCs, and carbon dioxide levels, with a mitigation module that selectively turns on/off mitigation devices based on set thresholds and a time-to-capacity calculation to optimize device operation, and a diagnostic module to indicate filter replacement needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mitigation devices are continuously operated to maintain air quality, then air quality control is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts mitigation device operation based on real-time IAQ parameter measurements. The control module monitors particulate, VOC, and CO2 levels and selectively activates mitigation devices only when thresholds are exceeded, transitioning from static continuous operation to dynamic demand-based operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously measuring IAQ parameters with sensors and using this information to control mitigation device operation. The control module receives sensor data, compares it against thresholds, and adjusts device operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy usage while maintaining air quality.
2Reliability
If mitigation devices are operated frequently to ensure air quality, then air quality control is improved, but device wear and maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from frequent preventive operation to dynamic condition-based operation. Mitigation devices are activated only when IAQ parameters exceed thresholds, reducing unnecessary device cycles and extending operational lifespan while maintaining air quality control when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensor data to autonomously determine when mitigation devices are needed, eliminating the need for scheduled manual operation. The control module automatically manages device activation and deactivation based on real-time air quality conditions, optimizing both performance and device longevity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple IAQ parameters are monitored with high precision, then measurement accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments air quality monitoring into distinct parameter measurements using specialized sensors for particulate matter, VOCs, and CO2. Each sensor type targets a specific contaminant category, allowing for precise measurement of multiple parameters while maintaining modular system architecture that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves multiple functions: it processes data from all sensor types, compares readings against thresholds, determines which mitigation devices to activate, and coordinates device operation. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single control unit rather than requiring separate control circuits for each parameter.
Data Source
AI summary
An indoor air quality (IAQ) system for a building includes an IAQ sensor that is located within the building and that is configured to measure an IAQ parameter. The IAQ parameter is one of: an amount of particulate of at least a predetermined size present in air; an amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in air; and an amount of carbon dioxide present in air. A mitigation module is configured to: selectively turn on a mitigation device based on a comparison of the IAQ parameter with a first ON threshold and a second ON threshold; and selectively turn off the mitigation device based on a comparison of the IAQ parameter with an OFF threshold. A clean module is configured to determine a clean value for the IAQ parameter. A thresholds module is configured to, based on the clean value, determine the first ON threshold and the OFF threshold.