Integrated thermal comfort control system with variable mode of operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ceiling fans are inefficient in managing thermal comfort and energy consumption, as they require manual intervention to change direction, can be noisy, cause drafts, and consume more energy than necessary, especially when transitioning between heating and cooling modes, and do not account for room occupancy or thermostat settings.
Innovation Solution
A smart fan system integrated with sensors and controllers that automatically adjust speed and direction based on temperature, occupancy, and thermostat modes, optimizing energy use and comfort by circulating air efficiently and reducing energy consumption through intelligent control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional ceiling fans are run at high speeds in reverse to mix heat and cold air, then air mixing effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases and noise level increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the ceiling fan to automatically change rotation direction (forward/reverse) and adjust speed levels based on real-time temperature differential detection. The controller dynamically modifies fan operation parameters to optimize air mixing effectiveness while minimizing energy consumption, eliminating the need for manual intervention and high-speed continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (rotation direction, speed level) based on detected temperature conditions. When a significant temperature differential is detected between upper and lower air layers, the fan reverses direction and adjusts speed appropriately. This parameter adaptation allows effective air mixing only when needed, reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous high-speed operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ceiling fans are manually switched between forward and reverse directions, then adaptability to different seasons is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling fan system performs self-service by automatically detecting temperature differentials between upper and lower air layers and autonomously adjusting rotation direction and speed. The integrated temperature sensor and controller enable the fan to adapt to seasonal changes and thermal conditions without requiring user intervention, while still providing effective destratification and air mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring temperature at different heights and using this information to automatically adjust fan operation. The controller receives temperature data from sensors and modulates fan speed and direction accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing thermal conditions while eliminating manual operation requirements.
3Reliability
If conventional ceiling fans run continuously to maintain air mixing, then thermal comfort is improved, but energy waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by operating the ceiling fan only when temperature differential detection indicates a need for air mixing. Rather than continuous operation, the fan activates periodically based on thermal conditions, maintaining thermal comfort when required while avoiding energy waste during periods when air stratification is already minimal or unacceptable.
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 system achieves up to 30% total energy savings by optimizing fan operation based on real-time conditions, enhancing thermal comfort without manual intervention, reducing noise, and minimizing energy waste, while maintaining effective air mixing and destratification.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor for measuring a temperature in the space
Implementation Method 2
a fan for circulating air within the space based on the temperature sensed by the sensor
Implementation Method 3
a sensor for sensing whether the space is occupied, and a controller for controlling the fan to operate at a first speed when the space is occupied and a second speed when the space is unoccupied
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling thermal comfort in a space is provided with a variable mode of operation. The system may include a conditioner for conditioning air in the space, and a sensor for measuring a temperature in the space. A controller is provided for controlling the conditioner based on the temperature sensed by the sensor, and a fan for circulating air within the space is regulated based on the temperature sensed by the sensor. A related system for controlling a fan based on height is also provided, as is a system and method for easily and efficiently determining the height of a fan using a simple camera, such as one on a “smart” phone. A further aspect pertains to a controller, such as for example a portable handheld device, having a user interface adapted for suggesting an increase in a set point temperature of a thermostat based on the selected speed of the fan.