Smart Window HVAC Load Reduction via Cabin Pre-Cooling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
When a vehicle is parked outside, the cabin temperature increases due to lack of airflow, leading to high temperatures upon return, which results in increased energy consumption and discomfort when the HVAC unit is activated to cool the cabin.
Innovation Solution
An air management system that includes sensors to measure cabin temperature and an actuator to open windows for air circulation, reducing the load on the HVAC unit by pre-cooling the cabin before startup, while also considering factors like location, presence of occupants, and weather.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the HVAC unit is activated to cool the cabin after the vehicle returns from parking, then the cabin temperature is reduced, but the energy consumption increases significantly due to high initial temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by opening windows before the vehicle returns or upon detection of high cabin temperature, allowing natural air circulation to cool the cabin in advance. This preliminary cooling action reduces the subsequent HVAC energy consumption by eliminating the need to cool from extremely high temperatures.
2Temperature
If windows are opened to allow air circulation during parking, then the cabin temperature is reduced, but the security risk increases due to potential unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from sensors (proximity sensors, cameras, or user input) to detect whether someone is approaching or attempting to access the vehicle. Based on this feedback, the control unit intelligently decides whether to open windows for cooling or keep them closed for security, dynamically adjusting the cooling strategy without compromising security.
Solution Approach 2:
The window control system is dynamic rather than static. Windows can be opened to specific degrees (partially open vs. fully open), and the system can switch between different states (open for cooling, closed for security) based on real-time conditions. This dynamic control allows the system to balance cooling effectiveness with security requirements.
3Speed
If the HVAC unit runs at increased load to cool the cabin rapidly, then the cooling speed increases, but the fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary cooling action by opening windows before the vehicle is driven or during idle periods, allowing the cabin to cool naturally before HVAC activation. This preliminary action reduces the cooling load and duration required when the vehicle is in use, thereby reducing fuel consumption while still achieving effective cooling.
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 system effectively reduces the energy load on the HVAC unit during vehicle startup, improves fuel efficiency, and provides a safer, more comfortable environment by pre-cooling the cabin and preventing unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to measure or determine a cabin temperature within the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
an actuator coupled to the window and configured to open or close the window to control air circulation
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, devices and apparatuses for an air management system that circulates air to reduce the cabin temperature within a vehicle. The air management system includes a window configured to allow air circulation within the vehicle. The air management system includes an actuator coupled to the window and configured to open or close the window to control an amount of air circulation. The air management system includes a sensor. The sensor is configured to measure or determine a cabin temperature within the vehicle. The air management system includes an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is coupled to the actuator and the sensor and configured to determine, using the sensor, that the cabin temperature is greater than or equal to a first temperature and control the actuator to open the window and allow air circulation within the vehicle.