Vapor mitigation system, vapor mitigation controller and methods of controlling, monitoring and mitigating vapors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vapor intrusion poses a significant risk as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and radon can seep into buildings from contaminated soil and groundwater, contaminating indoor air and posing health risks, with existing mitigation systems often inefficient due to constant power consumption and variable environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically controlled vapor mitigation system that uses a blower with a variable power supply, controlled by sensors monitoring ambient and indoor conditions, to maintain a consistent vacuum level under the building, adjusting power based on environmental measurements and contaminant concentrations, and integrates with HVAC systems for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a constant power supply is used for the blower in existing vapor mitigation systems, then the vacuum level remains stable, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily under varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant power supply to a dynamic variable power supply that adjusts blower operation in real-time based on environmental conditions. The controller receives inputs from sensors monitoring temperature, humidity, and pressure, then dynamically modifies blower power to maintain effective vapor mitigation while optimizing energy consumption across varying operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the power supply parameters to the blower based on measured environmental parameters. The controller adjusts voltage, current, or frequency parameters of the power supply in response to sensor data, enabling the system to adapt vacuum generation to actual vapor intrusion risks and environmental factors, thereby reducing energy waste while maintaining mitigation effectiveness.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the blower power is reduced to save energy, then energy consumption decreases, but the vacuum level becomes insufficient to prevent vapor intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a closed-loop control system where sensors continuously monitor environmental conditions and vapor pressure, the controller processes this information, and the blower power is adjusted accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that energy reduction does not compromise vapor mitigation effectiveness, as the system responds in real-time to maintain the vacuum level necessary to prevent vapor intrusion into buildings.
3Use of energy by moving object
If environmental conditions are monitored and blower power is dynamically adjusted, then energy consumption is optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a controller that performs multiple functions: it processes data from various environmental sensors, makes real-time power adjustment decisions, monitors system status, and communicates with external systems. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be multiple separate devices into a single integrated control unit, optimizing energy management while limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
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 effectively reduces VOC and radon contamination by maintaining optimal vacuum levels, minimizing energy consumption, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards through dynamic power adjustments and integration with HVAC systems.
Implementation Method 1
a blower coupled to the at least one vacuum pipe, the blower constructed and arranged to create a vacuum under the floor of the building
Data Source
AI summary
A vapor management system includes a monitoring service system configured to communicate one or more system parameters with at least one vapor mitigation system. The monitoring service system is further configured to generate a user interface. The user interface is configured to display and permit adjustment of the one or more system parameters.