Radiant Ceiling Air Mixing Device to Reduce Thermal Stratification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiant ceiling thermal systems suffer from internal air stratification, leading to inefficient heat exchange and energy loss, particularly in heating and cooling modes, where warmer or cooler air accumulates above the ceiling, preventing effective mixing and resulting in unused thermal energy and potential condensation issues.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an aeraulic device with fans and adjustable airflow paths within the radiant ceiling thermal system to actively mix internal air between the room and the upper plenum, preventing stratification and enhancing air circulation, which can be easily installed in both 'closed' and 'open' configurations, including within the radiant panels themselves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If radiant ceiling thermal systems are used for heating or cooling, then thermal comfort is provided, but air stratification occurs in the upper plenum space causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic air mixing capabilities by incorporating fans or blowers that can be activated during system operation to disrupt thermal stratification in the upper plenum space, converting the static thermal layers into actively mixed air, thereby recovering thermal energy that would otherwise be lost
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic or intermittent air mixing cycles where fans are activated at specific intervals or under specific conditions (such as when stratification is detected) to periodically disrupt and mix the thermal layers in the plenum, balancing energy recovery with operational efficiency
2Object-affected harmful factors
If radiant panels are installed in false ceiling with upper plenum, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but air mixing is prevented leading to condensation issues
Solution Approach 1:
The radiant ceiling panels are designed to serve multiple functions: thermal radiation for heating/cooling, structural support for the false ceiling, and integration of air mixing components (fans, ducts, or passive mixing elements) within the panel assembly, eliminating the need for separate air mixing devices while maintaining aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary air circulation paths and mixing elements integrated within the ceiling structure that facilitate air movement between the plenum and room without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the false ceiling, using concealed ducts, grilles, or passive mixing chambers
3Loss of energy
If insulation layer is added to radiant panels, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but air stratification is exacerbated in the upper space
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic air mixing mechanisms that can be activated to disrupt the stable stratified air layers in the upper plenum space, preventing the formation of persistent thermal reservoirs while maintaining the insulation benefits of the radiant panels through controlled periodic mixing cycles
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 solution improves heat exchange capacity, reduces energy consumption, and enhances living comfort by ensuring uniform temperature distribution, while allowing for simpler, more durable, and energy-efficient radiant ceiling systems that can be integrated with existing installations, even in large or vaulted spaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least a fan, housed internally in said case body, configured to move an air flow between the inlet opening and the inlet opening and vice-versa
Implementation Method 2
the warmer air tends naturally to vertically stratify by convection in the upper part of the room
Implementation Method 3
radiant elements or panels arranged in a false ceiling for heating and cooling... radiant type systems... transfer or receive heat uniformly
Data Source
AI summary
An aeraulic device for radiant ceiling thermal systems of an internal room is provided. The device may comprise a case body having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, as well as a fan housed by the case body to cause airflow between the inlet opening and outlet opening. The device may be configured to be arranged in an upper volume or plenum of the internal room above a false ceiling of the radiant system. The inlet opening and outlet opening may be configured to be placed in fluid connection with the internal room and with the upper volume or plenum, and in cooperation with at least two openings of the false ceiling. Embodiments of the invention may also comprise a radiant ceiling thermal system provided with the aeraulic device.