System and method for coordinated single setpoint humidity control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional systems combining humidification and dehumidification require different humidity setpoints, leading to imprecise control and a complex interface, as they must have a sufficient difference to prevent continuous operation, resulting in non-stop activation of either system.
Innovation Solution
A humidity control system that uses a single setpoint for both humidification and dehumidification, implementing a lockout condition to prevent opposing systems from activating simultaneously, with an override mechanism to adjust based on changing conditions or a schedule, allowing coordinated control and precise humidity management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different humidity setpoints are used for humidification and dehumidification systems, then continuous operation of one system is prevented, but humidity control precision deteriorates and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of humidification and dehumidification systems into a unified control architecture that uses a single humidity setpoint. The controller integrates both systems and coordinates their operation through a shared control logic, eliminating the need for separate setpoints while preventing simultaneous operation through interlocking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using a lockout mechanism that alternates between humidification and dehumidification modes. When one system operates, the other is locked out for a predetermined period, creating a periodic sequence of operations that prevents continuous operation while maintaining precise humidity control through a single setpoint.
2Reliability
If different humidity setpoints are used for humidification and dehumidification systems, then simultaneous operation is avoided, but control interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single controller that manages both humidification and dehumidification systems. The controller integrates setpoint management, system coordination, and lockout logic into one unified interface, reducing the number of independent controls users must manage while ensuring reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements self-service through automatic lockout management and conditional activation logic. The controller automatically determines when to activate each system based on current humidity conditions and lockout status, eliminating the need for users to manually coordinate between multiple setpoints and reducing interface complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a single humidity setpoint is used for both systems, then control precision is improved and interface is simplified, but risk of simultaneous operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action through lockout timing mechanisms that prevent the second system from activating during a predetermined period after the first system operates. This creates a time-based separation that allows a single setpoint to be used while ensuring systems do not run simultaneously, maintaining both precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the humidification and dehumidification systems, managing their coordination through lockout logic. The controller monitors system status and actively prevents simultaneous operation by blocking activation signals to the locked-out system, enabling single setpoint control without compromising reliability.
4Reliability
If lockout condition is implemented to prevent simultaneous operation, then system reliability is improved, but response time to humidity changes may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic lockout management where the lockout period and activation conditions can adjust based on system state and environmental conditions. The controller continuously monitors humidity levels and can modify lockout behavior to balance reliability with responsive action, allowing faster response when conditions warrant while maintaining protection against simultaneous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses preliminary action by implementing override conditions that allow the locked-out system to activate early when specific conditions are met. The controller monitors for override conditions that indicate urgent humidity correction is needed, and can preemptively allow activation before the lockout period expires, reducing response time while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A humidity control system and method for controlling the humidity of ambient air is disclosed. The system includes a humidification and dehumidification systems to increase and/or decrease the humidity level of an indoor space and a sensor to sense ambient conditions of the space. The system further includes a controller that receives a humidity setpoint for the indoor space, determines the humidity level associated with the indoor space, compares the determined humidity level to the humidity setpoint, and causes activation of one of a humidification system or a dehumidification system. In response to causing the activation of one of the humidification or dehumidification system, the controller initiates a lockout condition during which the other of the one of the humidification or dehumidification system is prevented from activation. The controller also monitors for an override condition and enables activation of the other of the humidification system or the dehumidification system accordingly.