Method for environmental analysis and control of spatial areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems rely on absolute temperature measurements, which are not responsive to dynamic thermal changes or user comfort variations, failing to adapt to individual preferences and environmental conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-pixel, multi-spectral infrared radiation sensor system that maps thermal load distribution and heat transfer dynamics in spatial areas, incorporating real-time user feedback and visible light sensing to dynamically control thermal conditions, enabling a 'theory of relativity' in thermal comfort management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If absolute temperature measurement is used, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but thermal comfort control accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the spatial area into multiple zones with different thermal characteristics, using arrays of temperature sensors and infrared detectors to measure temperature distribution across segments rather than a single point. This segmentation allows the system to capture thermal variations throughout the space, improving measurement accuracy while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular sensor arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point temperature measurement to multi-dimensional thermal mapping by incorporating infrared radiation detectors that capture thermal radiation across two-dimensional spatial fields. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive thermal environment assessment, allowing the system to understand temperature distribution patterns and heat transfer dynamics throughout the entire space rather than at isolated points.
2Device complexity
If static temperature control is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to dynamic conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control by continuously monitoring thermal conditions through multiple sensors and adjusting HVAC system operation in real-time based on detected thermal changes. The system responds to dynamic thermal environments by modifying airflow, temperature, and humidity control strategies, enabling adaptation to changing occupancy patterns, outdoor conditions, and internal heat loads while maintaining reasonable system complexity through automated feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensor data from temperature detectors, infrared sensors, and occupancy detectors are continuously fed back to the control system. This feedback enables the system to learn from thermal patterns, adjust control strategies, and optimize thermal comfort dynamically. The feedback loop allows the HVAC system to respond to actual thermal conditions and user preferences, improving adaptability without requiring overly complex manual intervention systems.
3Measurement precision
If multi-spectral infrared sensing is implemented, then thermal analysis accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-spectral infrared sensors that can detect thermal radiation across multiple wavelength bands, enabling the same device to perform various thermal measurement functions including temperature mapping, heat transfer analysis, and material property detection. This multi-functionality improves thermal analysis accuracy by providing comprehensive spectral information while managing device complexity through the use of integrated sensor modules that combine multiple detection capabilities in single units.
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 provides timely and accurate control of thermal comfort, adapting to changing environmental and biological conditions without manual adjustments, enhancing user satisfaction and energy efficiency by analyzing and responding to real-time thermal changes.
Implementation Method 1
At least one multi-spectral multi-pixel infrared sensing detector measures infrared radiation of objects in at least one spatial area
Implementation Method 2
each radiation sensing cell or pixel converts the thermal radiation from an object to a change in measurable electrical property
Data Source
AI summary
The goal of the METHOD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND CONTROL OF SPATIAL AREAS as a continuation of “The Spatial Environmental Control Unit” is a method of logging multi-spectral, multi-pixel infrared radiation data of objects in a spatial area for the analysis and control of heat transfer dynamics in the spatial area that is responsive to feedback for controlling the thermal conditions in the spatial area. The METHOD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND CONTROL OF SPATIAL AREAS further makes the current norm of an “absolute” temperature control approach for thermal control and human comfort obsolete. Ambient environmental conditions and user preference variables makes the current approach to thermal control time consuming, inaccurate and tedious. The Spatial Environmental Control Unit as one of our foundation patents disclosed the physical components make thermal control and analysis more responsive and user friendly. The METHOD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND CONTROL OF SPATIAL AREAS makes the control and analysis of the thermal properties of the spatial area more intuitive by providing visual images on any compatible device simplifying the understanding of the dynamics of heat transfer in an environment. Tedium and frustration become understanding and empowerment. This method enables gaining knowledge and using tools for analysis, allowing a user to “redesign” his environment by correcting ambient conditions and improving the operation of the thermal conditioning equipment. The end result is a better thermal environment with higher energy efficiency.