Parallel Plate Heat Exchanger Ventilation for Temperature and Humidity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ventilation systems for residential buildings face challenges in efficiently managing temperature and humidity, particularly in varying climates, and require complex configurations for heat and energy recovery, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to materials.
Innovation Solution
A ventilation system with parallel air-to-air plate heat exchangers and adjustable valves allows for flexible operation, enabling separate or combined use of HRV and ERV units, and includes a compact design with bypass functionality for efficient heat and energy recovery, along with a symmetrical and adaptable mounting system for easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single heat exchanger unit (HRV or ERV) is used, then the system is simple and compact, but it cannot simultaneously optimize for both temperature control and humidity control in varying climates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an HRV unit and an ERV unit into a single integrated heat exchanger device, allowing both temperature recovery (HRV function) and energy/humidity recovery (ERV function) to coexist in one compact unit. This merging enables the system to adapt to varying climate conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated heat exchanger is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as an HRV unit for temperature control, as an ERV unit for energy and humidity control, or in combination modes. This multi-functionality allows a single device to handle diverse climate requirements without needing separate specialized units.
2Adaptability or versatility
If HRV and ERV units are combined in serial configuration, then both temperature and humidity control are achieved, but the system becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using separate serial HRV and ERV units as disclosed in WO 2007/051286 A1, the patent merges both functions into a single integrated heat exchanger with internally divided flow paths. This eliminates the need for complex serial configuration while maintaining the ability to control both temperature and humidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated heat exchanger is segmented into multiple flow paths (first and second flow paths with respective channels) that separately handle different air streams. This internal segmentation allows independent control of temperature and humidity recovery processes within a single unified device.
3Ease of operation
If bypass channels are added to the heat exchanger, then airflow flexibility is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass channels are integrated within the same heat exchanger housing as the main heat exchange channels, merging the bypass function with the heat exchange function in a single structural unit. This avoids the need for separate bypass ducts or additional external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable valves that can dynamically control the opening and closing of bypass channels based on operational requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt airflow paths in real-time without requiring permanent structural modifications or complex fixed configurations.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustable valves are installed for controlling airflow, then precise temperature and humidity control is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable valves serve multiple functions: they control airflow through the heat exchange channels, regulate bypass flow, and enable different operational modes (heating, cooling, humidifying, dehumidifying). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized control mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The valves provide continuous adjustment capability, allowing precise control of airflow parameters (flow rate, distribution between channels and bypasses). This continuous parameter adjustment enables precise temperature and humidity control without requiring complex discrete control systems or multiple specialized valves.
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 provides precise control over temperature and humidity, adapts to varying weather conditions, reduces installation complexity, and minimizes material damage, while maintaining energy efficiency and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
An HRV unit exchanges sensible heat between two air streams. In this way, it is possible to heat up the incoming air flow in winter and cool it down in summer.
Implementation Method 2
An ERV unit exchanges energy between two air streams and can transfer both sensible heat and latent heat. In this way, it is possible to heat up and/or humidify the incoming air flow in winter and cool down and/or dehumidify it in summer.
Data Source
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AI summary
A ventilation system for a residential building. The ventilation system comprises a compact heat exchanger. The heat exchanger comprises: a housing through which two flow paths pass and at least one air-to-air plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger can further be provided with: a condensation discharge that allows several mutually orthogonal orientations of the heat exchanger; an angled filter unit in combination with a plurality of inlets per flow path; and/or a plurality of valves in combination with a plurality of air-to-air plate heat exchangers for avoiding a physical bypass channel. Furthermore, a mounting bracket can be provided for the heat exchanger that allows simplified mounting on a ceiling.