Light-Powered Variable Air Volume Diffuser for Wireless HVAC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges in controlling air volume efficiently without requiring external electrical power and physical connections, leading to increased installation costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A light-powered variable air volume diffuser system that uses photovoltaic cells to generate electricity for an electric actuator motor, allowing for self-contained operation and wireless control of air flow through a ring-shaped damper, eliminating the need for wiring and physical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dampers with external wiring are used, then reliable electrical power supply is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser body serves dual functions: it acts as both the air distribution component and the housing for the energy harvesting device and control system. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate powered locations and external wiring infrastructure, resolving the contradiction between reliable power supply and installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wiring systems with wireless communication technology. The diffuser communicates with the HVAC controller through wireless signals, eliminating physical electrical connections and reducing installation complexity while maintaining system reliability
2Ease of manufacture
If photovoltaic cells are integrated into the diffuser, then external wiring is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges previously separate components (diffuser body, energy harvesting device, control system) into a single integrated unit. The diffuser body houses both the air distribution mechanism and the power generation/control electronics, simplifying installation while the modular integration manages internal complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser body performs multiple functions simultaneously: air distribution, housing for electronics, and mounting surface for photovoltaic cells. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, easing installation while distributing complexity across unified structures
3Loss of time
If wireless control is implemented, then installation time is reduced, but power supply requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser generates its own electrical power through integrated photovoltaic cells, eliminating dependence on external power infrastructure. This self-powered capability enables wireless operation and significantly reduces installation time by removing wiring requirements, while changing power supply from grid-dependent to self-generated
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective control of air volume in HVAC systems by generating its own power and allowing for remote operation, reducing installation time and costs while simplifying system planning and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
A light-powered variable air volume diffuser system that uses photovoltaic cells to generate electricity for an electric actuator motor
Data Source
AI summary
A variable air volume diffuser and method of operation are disclosed. The system includes an energy harvesting device, a ring-shaped damper and a frame adapted to interface with the ring-shaped damper, wherein the ring-shaped damper is driven by energy harvested from the energy harvesting device.