Lumped Element Model for HVAC Bioprotection Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems rely on numerical simulation methods to model air quality, which are time-consuming and do not yield algebraic expressions, making it difficult to quickly analyze and improve bioprotection against airborne contaminants.
Innovation Solution
A lumped element model is developed to calculate and analyze the protection factor against airborne contaminants, allowing for real-time calculations and adjustments to HVAC systems to enhance bioprotection, using algebraic expressions derived from solving differential equations and applying the final value theorem.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If numerical simulation methods are used to model air quality in HVAC systems, then measurement precision of contaminant movement is improved, but calculation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the complex numerical simulation problem into an algebraic solution by changing the mathematical parameters and approach. Instead of solving differential equations numerically, the invention derives closed-form algebraic expressions that directly calculate protection factors, eliminating the time-consuming iterative numerical simulation process while maintaining prediction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential protective function from complex HVAC simulations by deriving a simplified algebraic expression for the protection factor. This extracted formula captures the core relationship between HVAC parameters and contaminant protection without requiring full numerical simulation, enabling rapid calculation while preserving the critical protective effect analysis.
2Measurement precision
If numerical simulation methods are used to analyze HVAC systems, then analysis depth is improved, but productivity decreases due to slow calculation speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mathematical parameters from numerical simulation variables to algebraic expressions with closed-form solutions. This transformation maintains the depth of HVAC system analysis by preserving the relationship between airflow rates, recirculation ratios, and protection factors, while dramatically increasing computational speed for bioprotection assessments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified algebraic copy of the complex numerical simulation model. This algebraic representation replicates the essential protective function analysis of full HVAC simulations but executes instantaneously, enabling rapid productivity improvement without sacrificing the core analytical depth needed for bioprotection decisions.
3Measurement precision
If detailed numerical simulations are performed for each data point, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to multiple simulation runs required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the protection factor calculation from multiple time-consuming simulation runs by deriving a single algebraic expression that directly computes the protection factor. This extracted formula provides precise protection factor calculations without requiring multiple incremental simulation runs, eliminating the time loss associated with generating data point by data point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary derivation of closed-form algebraic expressions that encapsulate the protection factor relationships before actual calculations are needed. This preliminary action creates ready-to-use formulas that can be evaluated instantly for any HVAC parameter set, avoiding the need for multiple simulation runs and significantly reducing the time required for protection factor determination.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes: accepting input data for a design including arrangement of spaces of a structure, operating parameters of a ventilation system, and locations and relative positions of an uninfected individual and one or more infected individuals in the structure with respect to air flowing in the structure and influenced by the ventilation system; calculating an inverse protection factor for the structure using a lumped element model, the inverse protection factor being an inverse of a protection factor which is a ratio of contaminant which the one or more infected individuals exhale in the structure and contaminant which the uninfected individual inhales in the structure; comparing the calculated inverse protection factor to a preset criterion; and if the calculated inverse protection factor fails to meet the preset criterion, changing the design, and repeating the calculating, comparing, and changing until the calculated inverse protection factor meets the preset criterion.