Modular Air-Conditioning Cassettes for Low-Cost Room Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems for rooms are expensive and difficult to retrofit, requiring significant installation costs due to their complex and costly nature.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioning system comprising modular cassettes with integrated air conditioning modules, a control module, and a line assembly for simple installation and connectivity, including a detachable plug connection for easy service and modernization, with optional features like integrated lighting and fire extinguishing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional air conditioning systems are installed in existing rooms, then air conditioning functionality is achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The air conditioning system is divided into modular cassettes that can be independently installed in ceiling or wall positions. Each cassette contains integrated components (heat exchanger, fan, air distributor) that function as a self-contained unit, simplifying installation in existing rooms without requiring complex centralized system integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The cassette design serves multiple functions: it provides air conditioning, can be integrated into suspended ceilings or walls, and allows for flexible positioning. The universal mounting approach enables the same cassette design to be installed in various locations and configurations, reducing the need for custom installation procedures.
2Reliability
If conventional air conditioning systems are retrofitted into existing rooms, then air conditioning functionality is achieved, but installation expense increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into standardized cassettes, the installation process becomes modular and repeatable, reducing labor costs. The cassettes can be manufactured independently and installed as pre-assembled units, eliminating the need for expensive on-site customization and reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The cassettes are designed to be self-contained with integrated components that require minimal external infrastructure. The modular design allows for easy connection to existing building services (electrical, plumbing) without requiring extensive modifications to the building structure, thereby reducing retrofitting expenses.
3Ease of operation
If control module is integrated into each air conditioning module, then control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single centralized control module that communicates with all cassettes through a network. This eliminates the need for separate control electronics in each cassette, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full control functionality across all air conditioning units.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication network acts as an intermediary between the centralized control module and the distributed cassettes. This allows control signals and status information to be transmitted efficiently without requiring direct point-to-point connections, simplifying the control architecture while maintaining full functionality.
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 cost-effective and straightforward installation and retrofitting of air conditioning systems, reducing installation expenses while providing efficient temperature control and space-saving multi-functional solutions.
Implementation Method 1
heat is exchanged between air flowing through the air distributor and a fluid flowing through the heat exchanger
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The system (1) has a set of cartridges (3) with air conditioning modules, which are provided with an air distributor and a heat exchanger e.g. cross-flow heat exchanger. The heat exchanger and the distributor are arranged such that heat exchange between air flowing through the distributor and fluid flowing through the heat exchanger takes place during operation of the modules. A control module (11) is arranged at a distance from the modules and is attached to one of the cartridges. The module regulates supply of air and the fluid to the air distributor and heat exchanger, respectively.