Multi-Air-Path Ventilating Fan for Cooling and Dehumidifying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multifunctional dehumidifiers lack the ability to perform cooling functions due to a single air path accommodating only evaporator and condenser components, limiting their functionality to dehumidifying, drying, and heating.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional ventilating fan design with separate air paths for different components, allowing for the use of heat exchangers in various configurations to achieve ventilating, dehumidifying, heating, and cooling functions by controlling air flow through valves and blowers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single air path is used to accommodate evaporator and condenser, then the device structure is simplified, but the cooling function cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the air handling system into multiple independent air paths: a first air path for dehumidifying air, a second air path for cooling air, and a third air path for heating air. This segmentation allows each air path to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system versatility without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-dimensional air path configuration where air can flow through different paths based on the required function. By adding the dimension of selectable air path routing with isolation valves, the system achieves multiple functions (dehumidifying, cooling, heating) without requiring completely separate physical systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple air paths are created for different functions, then cooling function is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal air handling system where the same heat exchangers (evaporator and condenser) can serve multiple functions depending on which air path is active. The first heat exchanger can act as evaporator for dehumidifying or condenser for cooling, while the second heat exchanger can act as condenser for dehumidifying or evaporator for cooling, achieving multi-functionality without duplicating components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces isolation valves as intermediary control elements that manage air flow between different paths. These valves act as mediators that can isolate or connect different air paths as needed, enabling flexible function switching without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration of the entire system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If heat exchangers are used in different configurations, then multiple functions are achieved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the roles of heat exchangers can switch based on operational requirements. The first heat exchanger can dynamically switch between functioning as an evaporator or condenser, and similarly for the second heat exchanger, allowing the system to adapt to different functional modes (dehumidifying, cooling, heating) through controlled air path configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs control means that monitor system conditions and automatically adjust air path configuration and heat exchanger operation. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by eliminating the need for manual intervention to switch between functions, as the control system automatically manages the complex coordination of multiple air paths and heat exchanger roles.
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
Enables the fan to perform a broader range of functions, including ventilating, dehumidifying, heating, and cooling, with enhanced dehumidifying and heat exchange effects through strategic air path management and blower operation.
Implementation Method 1
the first area is provided with a first heat exchanger and a ventilating blower... the second area is provided with a second heat exchanger and a circulating blower
Implementation Method 2
when the first heat exchanger is used as an evaporator... the air is introduced from the air inlet of the panel, enters the evaporator as the first heat exchanger, by which the moisture in the air is condensed into liquid and extracted from the air
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunctional ventilating fan comprises a machine body, a panel provided with an air inlet and an air outlet. The machine body includes a first area, a second area, and a third area separated by several partition plates. The first area is provided with a first heat exchanger and a ventilating blower. A exhaust port of the ventilating blower is communicated with the outdoor. The second area is provided with a second heat exchanger and a circulating blower. The third area is provided with a compressor. The air inlet of the panel is communicated with the first area to form a first air path. The air inlet of the panel, the first area, the second area and the air outlet of the panel are communicated in turn to form a second air path. A first valve is provided in the second air path for isolating the first area so that a third air path is formed by the air inlet of the panel, the second area and the air outlet of the panel communicated in turn. The present invention can effect ventilating, dehumidifying, heating, cooling and the like functions.