Systems and methods for coupling the operations of an air handling device and a volatile composition dispenser

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing volatile composition dispensers face challenges in uniformly distributing a desired level of volatile composition within a room, as they often lack effective integration with air handling systems to optimize dispersion.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that integrates a central communication unit with both volatile composition dispensers and air handling devices, enabling wireless communication and coordinated operation to optimize the dispersion of volatile compositions through controlled air flow and temperature management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a volatile composition dispenser operates independently without integration with air handling systems, then the dispenser structure remains simple, but the dispersion uniformity and distribution effectiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispersion uniformityVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the volatile composition dispenser with the air handling system by integrating the dispenser into the air handler unit, allowing the HVAC fan to circulate both air and volatile composition simultaneously throughout the building, thereby achieving uniform dispersion without requiring separate complex dispensing infrastructure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The air handling device is given multi-functionality by enabling it to perform both its traditional air circulation function and the additional function of dispersing volatile composition, eliminating the need for dedicated dispensing equipment and simplifying the overall system while improving distribution effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If the volatile composition dispenser operates continuously to maintain desired composition levels, then the dispersion effectiveness improves, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomposition level controlVSAvoiddispenser energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback control where sensors monitor the volatile composition levels in the environment and communicate this information to the controller, which then adjusts the dispenser operation and HVAC system accordingly, ensuring composition levels are maintained only when necessary and reducing energy consumption during periods when adequate levels already exist

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of continuous operation, the system uses periodic dispensing cycles triggered by composition level monitoring, where the dispenser operates intermittently to top up volatile composition levels as needed, rather than running continuously, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective dispersion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Manufacturing precision

If the volatile composition dispenser is placed in specific locations to optimize coverage, then the dispersion effectiveness improves, but the installation complexity and difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage uniformityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the dispenser into the air handling system, the invention eliminates the need for multiple strategically placed standalone dispensers throughout the building. The single integrated unit leverages the existing HVAC air distribution network to achieve uniform coverage across all served areas, greatly simplifying installation while maintaining effective dispersion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 integration ensures uniform distribution and maintenance of a comfortable temperature and air quality by synchronizing the operation of volatile composition dispensers with air handling devices, enhancing the effectiveness of volatile composition dispersion and climate control.

Implementation Method 1

an air handling device...configured to move air throughout the at least one room

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir flow: Convection

Implementation Method 2

volatile composition dispensers exist in various forms, including non-energized devices that passively diffuse volatile compositions and energized devices that utilize energy in various forms to dispense

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVolatile composition dispersion: Diffusion

Data Source

PatentUS11226124B2Systems and methods for coupling the operations of an air handling device and a volatile composition dispenser
Publication Date: 2022.01.18 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO
  • US11226124B2 patent drawing
  • US11226124B2 patent drawing
  • US11226124B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for circulating a volatile composition throughout at least one room is provided. The system includes a central communication unit capable of receiving incoming signals and sending outgoing instructions. The central communication unit comprises a memory configured to store settings. The system includes a volatile composition dispenser capable of delivering the volatile composition into the air. The volatile composition dispenser is communicably connectable with the central communication unit through a wireless communication link. The system includes an air handling device communicably connectable with the central communication unit and configured to move air throughout the at least one room upon receipt of an outgoing instruction from the central communication unit.