US20240318853A1

US20240318853A1 - Control systems for heating ventilation and cooling systems

Info

Publication number: US20240318853A1
Application number: US18/613,251
Authority: US
Inventors: Daniel Betts; Matthew Tilghman; Matthew Graham; Dean WIERSMA
Original assignee: Blue Fronter Inc
Current assignee: Blue Frontier Inc; Blue Fronter Inc
Priority date: 2023-03-22
Filing date: 2024-03-22
Publication date: 2024-09-26
Also published as: WO2024197215A1

Abstract

The disclosure relates to control systems for heating ventilation and cooling systems. In some examples, a controller for a heating ventilation and cooling system receives, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The controller also receives, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow, and also receives, from a thermostat, a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The controller generates adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate, and (5) a liquid desiccant concentration of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The controller transmits the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/491,580, filed on Mar. 22, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference to its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to control systems and, more particularly, to control systems for heating ventilation and cooling systems.

BACKGROUND

Heating ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems generally cool ambient or room temperature air using a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The HVAC systems may include a heat exchanger that operates to remove heat from a refrigerant. For example, the heat exchanger may include plates or coils through which the refrigerant flows. A fan may blow air across the plates or coils to cool the refrigerant flowing within. Less frequently, the heat exchangers may include a liquid desiccant to dehumidify the air during the cooling process. These HVAC systems may include a thermostat to set a desired temperature and, in some examples, a humidity level.

SUMMARY

In some examples, an apparatus includes a non-transitory, machine-readable storage medium storing instructions, and at least one processor coupled to the non-transitory, machine-readable storage medium. The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to receive, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The at least one processor is also configured to execute the instructions to receive, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow. Further, the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to receive a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The at least one processor is also configured to execute the instructions to generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate of the conditioner system, and (5) a liquid desiccant concentration based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The at least one processor is further configured to execute the instructions to transmit the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.
In some examples, a method by at least one processor includes receiving, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The method also includes receiving, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow. Further, the method includes receiving a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The method also includes generating adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate of the conditioner system, and (5) a liquid desiccant concentration based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The method further includes transmitting the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.
In some examples, a non-transitory, computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. The operations include receiving, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The operations also include receiving, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow. Further, the operations include receiving a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The operations also include generating adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate, and (5) a liquid desiccant concentration of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The operations further include transmitting the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.
In some examples, a system includes a conditioner sub-system configured to condition a stream of air based on a conditioning fluid. The system also includes a regenerator sub-system configured to remove moisture from the conditioning fluid. Further, the system includes a controller configured to adjust at least one control setting of the conditioner sub-system, and a computing device communicatively coupled to the controller. The computing device is configured to receive, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The computing device is also configured to receive, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow. Further, the computing device is configured to receive a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The computing device is also configured to generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate, and (5) a liquid desiccant concentration of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The computing device is further configured to transmit the adjustment data to the controller to cause the adjustment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The drawings are not to scale and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.

FIG. 1 illustrates a liquid desiccant air-conditioning (LDAC) system, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary LDAC control computing device of the LDAC system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 3 illustrates portions of the LDAC system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates another LDAC system, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of an example method to adjust a control setting of an LDAC system, in accordance with one embodiment; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of another example method to adjust a control setting of an LDAC system, in accordance with one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion omits or only briefly describes conventional features of heat and mass exchangers that are apparent to those skilled in the art. It is noted that various embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are intended to be non-limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims. Further, particular features described herein can be used in combination with other described features in each of the various possible combinations and permutations.
Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be given their broadest reasonable interpretation including meanings implied from the specification as well as meanings understood by those skilled in the art and/or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc. It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless otherwise specified, and that the terms “includes” and/or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. In the description, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “up,” “down,” “top,” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing figure under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and normally are not intended to require a particular orientation. Terms including “above” versus “below,” “inwardly” versus “outwardly,” “longitudinal” versus “lateral,” and the like are to be interpreted relative to one another or relative to an axis of elongation, or an axis or center of rotation, as appropriate. Terms concerning attachments, coupling, and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. The terms “operatively connected,” “operably connected,” and the like include such attachments, couplings, or connections that allow the pertinent structures to operate as intended by virtue of that relationship. Further, terms concerning communications such as “communicatively coupled” and the like can include wired or wireless connections that allow the pertinent structures to communicate with each other.
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the control of heating ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems. For example, a liquid desiccant air-conditioning (LDAC) system may include a conditioner system that uses a conditioning fluid (e.g., a liquid desiccant, water) to condition air. For instance, the conditioner system may receive concentrated conditioning fluid from a storage tank, and may distribute the concentrated conditioning fluid throughout mass transfer elements (e.g., fluid distribution, wicking material, metal plates that may hold wicking material, metal fins for heat transfer, etc.) to dehumidify an incoming stream of air (e.g., outside air as received through an actuated damper and provided by an air fan). The conditioner system may allow for the control of a flow rate of the incoming concentrated conditioning fluid. As the stream of air is dehumidified, the conditioning fluid dilutes. The conditioner system collects the diluted conditioning fluid, and provides the diluted conditioning fluid back to the storage tank or a separate storage tank. In some instances, the conditioner system distributes working fluid (e.g., water, liquid desiccant) to cool the incoming stream of air. For example, the conditioner system may include a dehumidification stage through which the stream of air is dehumidified, and a cooling stage through which the stream of air is cooled. Further, the conditioner system may direct exhaust air (e.g., air used for cooling equipment) to the outside (e.g., through an actuated damper) and supply air to the space being cooled.
In some instances, return air from a conditioned space may be mixed with incoming outside air to form a stream of mixed air (i.e., a flow of mixed air). In some examples all or a portion of the mixed air stream may serve as exhaust air. In some examples, all or a portion of the mixed air stream may serve as supply air. In some examples, at least a first portion of the mixed air stream serves as exhaust air, and at least a second portion of the mixed air stream serves as the supply air.
The LDAC system may also include a regenerator system that receives the diluted conditioning fluid from the storage tank, and removes moisture (e.g., water) from the diluted conditioning fluid to concentrate the conditioning fluid. The regenerator system provides the concentrated conditioning fluid back to the storage tank (e.g., for use by the conditioner system). As described herein, the LDAC system may allow for the control of an amount of the conditioning fluid that flows to the conditioner system.
Further, the LDAC system may include an LDAC control computing device, such as a server (e.g., cloud-based server), that is communicatively coupled to one or more sensors. Sensors may include, for example, flow rate sensors, humidity (e.g., dew point) sensors, and temperature sensors, among others. Flow rate sensors may measure a flow rate of a fluid, such as air, and may generate sensor data characterizing the measured flow rate. Humidity sensors may detect a humidity level (e.g., 0% to 100%) of an environment, and may generate sensor data characterizing the detected humidity level. In some examples, the sensor data generated by a humidity sensor (e.g., a dew point sensor) characterizes a dew point of the environment. In some examples, the LDAC control computing device computes the dew point based on a dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature, absolute humidity, a relative humidity and temperature, or relies on any suitable form of absolute humidity directly. Furthermore, temperature sensors may detect a temperature of an environment, and may generate sensor data characterizing the detected temperature. The LDAC control computing device can receive sensor data from one or more of any of these sensors.
The LDAC control computing device may also be communicatively coupled to an LDAC controller. In some instances, the LDAC controller is, or includes, a thermostat. The LDAC controller may be communicatively coupled to the conditioner system and/or regenerator system, and can provide control signals to the conditioner system and/or regenerator system to adjust one or more control settings of the conditioner system and/or regenerator system. Control settings may include, for example, settings for a desired temperature, a desired humidity level, a desired flow rate (e.g., of supply air, exhaust air, return air, working fluid, conditioning fluid), a desired concentration of conditioning fluid, to turn on or off a fan (e.g., supply air fan), or to turn on or off one or more of the conditioner system and regenerator system, among other examples. The LDAC control computing device can transmit to the LDAC controller one or more control signals to adjust any of these or other control settings. In some examples, an LDAC controller includes a thermostat and, in some instances, may additionally or alternatively include one or more sensors, such as any of the sensors described herein.
As described herein, the LDAC control computing device may receive, from a temperature sensor, a temperature of an air flow entering a conditioner system. The air flow may be a return air flow of the conditioner system. The LDAC control computing system may also receive, from a humidity sensor, a humidity (e.g., dew point) of the air flow. The LDAC control computing system may further receive a desired temperature for a conditioned space (e.g., building, room, etc.). For instance, the desired temperature may be one set by a user on a thermostat of the LDAC system for the conditioned space. Based on the temperature of the air flow, the humidity of the air flow, and the desired temperature, the LDAC control computing device may determine an adjustment to the conditioner system, such as an adjustment to one or more of exhaust air flow, a conditioning fluid flow rate, a working fluid flow rate, and a total air flow rate of the conditioner system, as described herein.
For example, the LDAC control computing system may execute an algorithm that determines an amount of exhaust air flow for the conditioner system based on the temperature of the air flow, the humidity of the air flow, and the desired temperature. In some examples, the LDAC control computing system may apply one or more rules (e.g., look-up tables (LUTs)) to determine the amount of exhaust air flow based on the temperature of the air flow, the humidity of the air flow, and the desired temperature.
Further, the LDAC control computing system may generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to the exhaust air flow based on the determined amount of exhaust flow. For instance, the LDAC control computing system may compare the determined amount of exhaust flow to a current amount of exhaust flow, and determine the adjustment based on the comparison (e.g., by subtracting the determined amount of exhaust flow by the current amount of exhaust flow). In some instances, the adjustment data characterizes an adjustment to an exhaust air ratio (e.g., the amount of flow of exhaust air to an amount of flow of mixed air), as described herein. For instance, a flow of mixed air may include outside air and return air. As described herein, a portion of the flow of mixed air may be provided as supply air to a building, and a portion of the flow of mixed air may be provided as exhaust air. The exhaust air ratio may characterize an amount of the flow of the exhaust air to the amount of the flow of the mixed air (exhaust air ratio=flow of exhaust/flow of mixed air).
In some examples, the LDAC control computing system may receive, from one or more sensors, one or more of a humidity and/or temperature of an incoming air stream, and a desired temperature (e.g., from a thermostat). Further, based on one or more of the humidity and/or temperature of the incoming air stream and the desired temperature, the LDAC control computing system may generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to one or more control settings, such as to one or more of an exhaust air flow, an exhaust air ratio, a desiccant flow rate, a water flow rate, a total air flow rate, and a liquid desiccant concentration. In some examples, the LDAC control computing system receives a dew point of air (e.g., return air, process air, outdoor air) from a sensor, and based on the dew point, generates adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to one or more of these control settings.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing system generates adjustment data charactering an adjustment to at least one of the exhaust air flow, the exhaust air ratio, the desiccant flow rate, the water flow rate, the total air flow rate, and the liquid desiccant concentration based on at least one of a temperature of air (e.g., return air, process air, outdoor air), a dew point of air (e.g., dew point of return air, dew point of process air, dew point of outdoor air), a desired temperature (and/or desired dew point), and with a goal of achieving said desired temperature while maximizing or minimizing certain other performance criteria. In some examples, the LDAC control computing system receives, from one or more sensors, a dew point or temperature of air (e.g., return air, process air, outdoor air). Further, the LDAC control computing system may determine, based on the dew point or temperature of the air, if a desired dew point or temperature will be met based on a current combination of control settings. If the LDAC control computing system determines that the current combination of control settings is insufficient to meet the desired dew point or temperature, the LDAC control computing system generates adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to one or more of the control settings to revert to a next-most-optimal combination of the control settings. For instance, the combination of the control settings may be based on minimizing a cost function associated with a corresponding HVAC system.
The LDAC control computing system may then transmit the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment of one or more of the exhaust air flow, the flow of mixed air, the exhaust air ratio, the desiccant flow rate, the water flow rate, the total air flow rate, and the liquid desiccant concentration. For instance, the LDAC control computing system may transmit the adjustment data to an LDAC controller, and upon receiving the adjustment data, the LDAC controller may signal the conditioner system to adjust the amount of exhaust air in accordance with the adjustment data. In some instances, to adjust the amount of exhaust air, the conditioner system adjusts the size of a flow path for the exhaust air (e.g., adjusts the size of an opening to the outside of the conditioner system that the exhaust air follows to exit the conditioner system). In some examples, the LDAC control computing device transmits the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to adjust an exhaust air flow rate (e.g., a ratio of exhaust air to supply air, a ratio of exhaust air to mixed air) of the conditioner system to change a temperature of the supply air (e.g., an increase in the exhaust air flow rate tends to decrease the temperature of the supply air, and a decrease in the exhaust air flow rate tends to increase the temperature of the supply air).
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device may determine an adjustment to a flow of a conditioning fluid (e.g., a desiccant flow rate) of the conditioner system based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow, and the desired temperature. The LDAC control computing device may generate adjustment data characterizing the adjustment, and may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to adjust a flow of the conditioning fluid into the conditioner system. For example, the LDAC control computing system may transmit the adjustment data to an LDAC controller, and upon receiving the adjustment data, the LDAC controller may signal the conditioner system to adjust the amount of conditioning fluid that is allowed over the mass transfer elements, which in turn may affect an amount of dehumidification of the mixed air flowing through the conditioner system.
As yet another example, the LDAC control computing device may determine an adjustment to a flow of working fluid (e.g., a water flow rate) of the conditioner system based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow, and the desired temperature. The LDAC control computing device may generate adjustment data characterizing the adjustment, and may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to adjust the flow of the working fluid into the conditioner system. For example, the LDAC control computing system may transmit the adjustment data to an LDAC controller, and upon receiving the adjustment data, the LDAC controller may signal the conditioner system to adjust the amount of working fluid that cools the mixed air flow.
In yet another example, the LDAC control computing device may determine an adjustment to a the total air flow rate of the conditioner system based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow, and the desired temperature. The LDAC control computing device may generate adjustment data characterizing the adjustment, and may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to adjust the total air flow rate of the conditioner system. For example, the LDAC control computing system may transmit the adjustment data to an LDAC controller, and upon receiving the adjustment data, the LDAC controller may signal the conditioner system to adjust the amount of total air flowing through the conditioner system (e.g., by adjusting a fan speed of the conditioner system).
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device receives, from another humidity sensor, a dew point of an another air flow, such as of the outside air flow entering the conditioner system. The LDAC control computing device may then generate adjustment data based on one or more of the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, and the dew point of the additional air flow (e.g., the dew point of the outside air flow). As described herein, the adjustment data may characterize an adjustment to one or more of the exhaust air flow, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the total air flow rate of the conditioner system. The LDAC control computing device may then transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to signal the conditioner system to perform the adjustment.
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device receives, from another temperature sensor, a temperature of the additional air flow. The LDAC control computing device may generate the adjustment data based on one or more of the temperature of the air flow, the desired temperature, and the temperature of the additional air flow. Further, the LDAC control computing device may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to signal the conditioner system to perform the adjustment.
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device further receives, from one or more humidity sensors, a dew point of the air flow and a dew point of the additional air flow. The LDAC control computing device may generate the adjustment data based on one or more of the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, a desired humidity, the dew point of the additional air flow (e.g., the dew point of the outside air flow), and the temperature of the additional air flow. In some examples, the LDAC control computing device generates the adjustment data based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, the dew point of the additional air flow (e.g., the dew point of the outside air flow), and the temperature of the additional air flow. In some examples, the LDAC control computing device generates the adjustment data based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, a desired humidity, the dew point of the additional air flow (e.g., the dew point of the outside air flow), and the temperature of the additional air flow. Further, the LDAC control computing device may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to signal the conditioner system to perform the adjustment.
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device determines a mixed air dew point for a mixed air flow entering the conditioner system based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and an outside air flow ratio (e.g., a proportion of the outside air flow to the mixed air flow, a proportion of the outside air flow to the return air flow). For instance, the outside air flow ratio may vary from a minimum value (e.g., 0) indicating no outside air flow (e.g., 0% outside air flow, 100% return air flow), to a maximum value (e.g., 1) indicating only an outside air flow (e.g., 100% outside air flow, 0% no return air flow). The LDAC control computing device may generate the adjustment data based on one or more of the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, a desired humidity, and the mixed air dew point (e.g., which may be determined based on a dew point of the outside air flow). In some examples, the LDAC control computing device may generate the adjustment data based on one or more of the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow, the desired temperature, the dew point of the additional air flow, the mixed air dew point, and the temperature of the additional air flow. Further, the LDAC control computing device may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller to signal the conditioner system to perform a corresponding adjustment.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device determines the outside air flow ratio based on the mixed air flow. For instance, the LDAC control computing device may determine the mixed air flow based on receiving a desired supply air flow for the conditioned space and an exhaust air flow ratio (a selected proportion of exhaust air flow to mixed air flow for the conditioner system), and may determine the outside air flow ratio based on the mixed air flow (e.g., as a multiple of the mixed air flow).
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device determines an enthalpy of the mixed air flow based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and the outside air flow ratio. For instance, the LDAC control computing device may apply an algorithm to the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and the outside air flow ratio to determine the enthalpy of the mixed air flow. The LDAC control computing device may then determine a mixed air temperature based on the mixed air dew point and the mixed air enthalpy.
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device receives a desired dew point for the conditioned space, and determines LDAC system operational states, such as a desiccant flow rate, a dew point, and an exhaust ratio that will result in the mixed air temperature being reached for the conditioned space. For example, the LDAC control computing device may receive a desired humidity level (e.g., dew point) set by a user on a thermostat that serves the conditioned space. The LDAC control computing device may then generate the adjustment data based on the temperature of the air flow, the dew point of the air flow (e.g., dew point of the return air flow), the desired temperature, the dew point of the additional air flow (e.g., the dew point of the mixed air flow), the temperature of the additional air flow, and the mixed air temperature.
In some instances, the LDAC control computing device may cause the adjustment (e.g., by generating and transmitting adjustment data) of one or more of one or more of the exhaust air flow, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the total air flow rate of the conditioner system based on a desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow during a temporal interval. For example, a user may provide input to the LDAC system (e.g., via a programmable thermostat) to specify one or more of the desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow during one or more future temporal intervals, and the LDAC system may store the desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow in a memory device. The LDAC control computing device may obtain the desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow from the memory device at the start of the temporal interval, and may generate adjustment data as described herein based on one or more of the desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device may adjust one or more of one or more of the exhaust air flow, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the total air flow rate of the conditioner system at a point in time prior to the future temporal interval so as to reach an operating condition prior to the start of the future temporal interval. For example, a future temporal interval may begin in four hours. As such, and based on a desired temperature of 75 degrees during the future temporal interval, the LDAC control computing device may, in three and a half hours, cause the LDAC controller to increase the exhaust air ratio so that the temperature is at least 75 degrees during (e.g., at the start of) the future temporal interval. Similarly, based on a desired humidity level for the room of 50% during the future temporal interval, the LDAC control computing device may, in three and a half hours, cause the LDAC controller to increase the conditioning fluid flow rate to lower the humidity level so that it reaches the 50% by the future temporal interval.
The desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow may, in some examples, be stored in a memory device as a preferred temperature for the future temporal interval. For example, the memory device may store a conditioning schedule that identifies preferred temperatures and, in some examples, humidity levels, for corresponding temporal intervals for each day of the week. For example, the conditioning schedule may identify a preferred temperature and a preferred humidity level for each four hour interval of each day of the week. In some examples, the temporal intervals vary. For example, the conditioning schedule may include a first temporal interval of two hours, a second temporal interval of eight hours, and a third temporal interval of fourteen hours for a given day.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device allows a user to define the temporal intervals (e.g., day, start time, end time), and select one or more of the desired temperature, desired dew point, and/or desired supply air flow for each temporal interval. The LDAC control computing device may generate and/or update the conditioning schedule, and store the conditioning schedule in the memory device.
Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an LDAC system 100 that includes a conditioner system 110, a conditioning fluid (CF) tank 114, and a regenerator system 112. The LDAC system 100 provides a stream of supply air 135 to a building 101. For example, CF tank 114 may store a conditioning fluid, such as liquid desiccant. Conditioner system 110 may receive concentrated conditioning fluid 141 from the CF tank 114, and may use the concentrated conditioning fluid 141 to dehumidify a stream of outside air 131 (e.g., during a dehumidification stage). The conditioner system 110 may collect diluted conditioning fluid (e.g., conditioning fluid that has been used to dehumidify the stream of outside air 131), and may provide the diluted conditioning fluid 143 back to the CF tank 114.
Further, the conditioner system 110 may, in some examples, cool the stream of outside air 131 during a cooling stage (e.g., using a working fluid, such as water). After passing through a dehumidification stage and, in some examples, a cooling stage, the stream of outside air 131 is provided as a stream of supply air 135 to building 101. In some examples, conditioner system receives return air 137 from the building 101, and mixes the return air 137 with the stream of outside air 131 to form a stream of mixed air that is then dehumidified and/or cooled to provide the stream of supply air 135. In some instances, a portion of the outside air 131 is used to cool the components of the conditioner system 110, and may proceed out the conditioner system 110 as a stream of exhaust air 113 to an outside environment.
Regenerator system 112 receives diluted conditioning fluid 145 from the CF tank 114, and concentrates the diluted conditioning fluid 145 to generate concentrated conditioning fluid 147 that is provided back to the CF tank 114. Regenerator system 112 may receive a stream of outside air 131 to remove moisture regenerated from the liquid desiccant, and may provide a stream of exhaust air 133 back to the outside environment.
Conditioner system 110 includes a plurality of sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F. Each of the plurality of sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F may be, for example, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor (e.g., a dew point sensor), a liquid concentration sensor, or a temperature sensor, among other examples. For instance, sensors 120A may include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the stream of exhaust air 113. Sensors 120A may, additionally or alternatively, include a flow rate sensor that measures a flow of the stream of exhaust air 113, and/or a humidity sensor that detects a dew point of the stream of exhaust air 113. Similarly, sensors 120B may include one or more of a temperature sensor and a flow rate sensor that measures a temperature and a flow rate, respectively, of the stream of outside air 131, and/or a humidity sensor that detects a dew point of the stream of the outside air 131. In addition, sensors 120C may include one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, and a humidity sensor that measures a temperature, a flow rate, and a humidity, respectively, of the supply air 135. Similarly, sensors 120D may include one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, and a humidity sensor that measures a temperature, a flow rate, and a humidity, respectively, of the return air 137.
Moreover, sensors 120E may include a flow rate sensor that measures the flow rate of concentrated conditioning fluid 141 received from the CF tank 114. Sensors 120E may also include a liquid concentration sensor that measures a concentration (e.g., density) of the concentrated conditioning fluid 141. Similarly, sensors 120F may include a flow rate sensor that measures the flow rate of diluted conditioning fluid 143 provided back to the CF tank 114, and may also include a liquid concentration sensor that measures a concentration of the diluted conditioning fluid 143.
LDAC system 100 also includes an LDAC control computing device 102 communicatively coupled to a database 116 and to an LDAC controller 105. LDAC controller 105 is communicatively coupled to the conditioner system 110 and, in some examples, the regenerator system 112. LDAC controller 105 may include circuitry, such as one or more processors and a transceiver, that allows LDAC controller 105 to send and receive signals (e.g., using wired or wireless communication channels) to and from conditioner system 110 and/or regenerator system 112.
For instance, LDAC controller 105 may receive sensor data from conditioner system 110 for any sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F, such as in response to receiving a request from LDAC control computing device 102. For example, LDAC controller 105 may receive temperatures from temperature sensors, humidity levels and/or dew points from humidity sensors, flow rates from any flow rate sensors, and concentrations (e.g., densities) from liquid concentration sensors. LDAC control computing device 102 may request sensor data from LDAC controller 105 for any sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F, and in response to the request, LDAC controller 105 may obtain and transmit the corresponding sensor data to LDAC computing device 102.
Further, LDAC controller 105 can adjust one or more control settings of the conditioner system 110 and/or regenerator system 112. For example, LDAC controller 105 can transmit a signal to conditioner system 110 that causes conditioner system 110 to adjust a conditioning fluid flow rate of the conditioning system. As another example, LDAC controller 105 can transmit a signal to conditioner system 110 that causes conditioner system 110 to adjust a water flow rate of the working fluid flowing through the conditioner system 110. LDAC controller 105 can also transmit a signal to conditioner system 110 to cause an adjustment to a stream of air, such as to adjust an exhaust air flow rate of the stream of exhaust air 113 exiting the conditioner system 100, to adjust the mixed air flow through conditioner system 110, and/or to adjust the stream of supply air 135 provided to the building 101. Further, LDAC controller 105 may also transmit a signal to conditioner system 110 that causes conditioner system 110 to adjust a flow rate of the concentrated conditioning fluid 141 entering the conditioner system 110, or the flow rate of the diluted conditioning fluid 143 exiting the conditioner system 110.
In some examples, LDAC controller 105 can transmit a signal to regenerator system 112 that causes regenerator system 112 to adjust a concentration of the conditioning fluid 141. For example, LDAC controller 105 may transmit a first signal to regenerator system 112 that causes regenerator system to concentrate the diluted conditioning fluid 143, and may transmit a second signal to regenerator system 112 that causes regenerator system to, for example, shut down, thereby stopping the concentration of the diluted conditioning fluid 143.
In some examples, LDAC controller 105 may include one or more thermostats. For example, LDAC controller 105 may allow a user to set one or more of a desired temperature, desired humidity, and/or desired supply air flow. LDAC controller 105 may also allow a user to program a schedule identifying one or more of a desired temperature, desired humidity, and/or desired supply air flow during corresponding temporal intervals.
Further, and as described herein, LDAC control computing device 102 can generate and transmit adjustment data to LDAC controller 105 to cause the LDAC controller 105 to adjust any of the various control settings of the conditioner system 110 and/or regenerator system 112. For instance, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive sensor data from any of the sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F and, based on the sensor data, generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to one or more of the stream of exhaust air 113, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the total air flow rate of the conditioner system 110.
For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may apply an adjustment data generation process (e.g., apply an algorithm) to a first temperature for the return air 137, a first dew point for the return air 137, a second temperature for the stream of outside air 131, and a second dew point for the stream of outside air 131 to determine an amount of exhaust air flow for the conditioner system. As described herein, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive a dew point, such as the first dew point and the second dew point, from a humidity sensor, such as sensors 120D, 120B. In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive a humidity from the humidity sensor, and may compute the dew point based on the humidity and a corresponding temperature. In some examples, the LDAC control computing device computes the dew point based on a dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature, absolute humidity, a relative humidity and temperature, or relies on any suitable form of absolute humidity directly. The adjustment data generation process may include applying a first weight to the first temperature, a second weight to the first dew point, a third weight to the second temperature, and a fourth weight to the second dew point, and combining the weighted values to determine the amount of exhaust air flow. In some examples, the adjustment data generation process includes determining an efficiency value for each of a plurality of possible temperature and humidity operational states (e.g., a temperature and a corresponding humidity operational combination) for the conditioner system based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, and the second dew point. The adjustment data generation process further includes selecting one of the plurality of possible temperature and humidity combination operational states based on the efficiency values. For instance, the adjustment data generation process may include selecting the most efficient combination setting that still allows the conditioner system 110 to reach a desired temperature and/or desired dew point.
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 may apply one or more rules (e.g., look-up tables (LUTs)) to determine the adjustment data based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, and the second dew point. For example, database 116 may store a LUT that identifies whether a desired temperature and/or desired humidity is met, as well as an efficiency value characterizing a corresponding efficiency of the conditioner system 110, for various combinations of return air 137 temperatures, stream of outside air 131 temperatures, return air 137 dew points, and/or stream of outside air 131 dew points. The LDAC control computing device 102 may determine which combinations satisfy the desired temperature and/or desired humidity, and from those selects the combination with the highest efficiency value. Based on the selected combination, LDAC control computing device 102 may determine one or more of a corresponding exhaust air flow for the stream of exhaust air 113, a conditioning fluid flow rate for the conditioning fluid 141, a working fluid flow rate, and/or total air flow rate for the conditioner system 110. The LDAC control computing device 102 may then generate adjustment data characterizing one or more of the determined exhaust air flow, conditioning fluid flow rate, working fluid flow rate, and total air flow rate, and may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105 to cause the corresponding adjustments to conditioner system 110.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device 102 may request and receive, in real-time and from LDAC controller 105, sensor data from one or more sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F, and may determine, based on the sensor data, whether conditioner system 110 requires an adjustment to a control setting to reach one or more of a desired temperature, desired humidity level, and desired supply air flow. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from LDAC controller 105, a first temperature for the return air 137 from a temperature sensor 120D, and a first dew point for the return air 137 from a humidity sensor 120D. LDAC control computing device 102 may also receive a second temperature for the stream of outside air 131 (e.g., outside air flow 131) from a temperature sensor 120B, and a second dew point for the stream of outside air 131 from a humidity sensor 120B. Based on the first temperature, second temperature, first dew point, and second dew point, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to one or more of the stream of exhaust air 113, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the total air flow rate of the conditioner system 110. The LDAC control computing device 102 may then transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller 105 to cause the adjustment to the conditioner system 110.
In some examples, the LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data to the LDAC controller 105 to adjust the control settings based on a predetermined future temporal interval. For example, the LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the signal to the LDAC controller 105 so as to reach a preferred operational value (e.g., a preferred temperature and/or humidity level) during the future temporal interval.
In some examples, the desired operational values are stored in database 116. For example, database 116 may store a conditioning schedule that identifies preferred temperatures and, in some examples, humidity levels and/or supply air flows for corresponding temporal intervals (e.g., for each day of the week). In some examples, a user can provide input to the LDAC control computing device 102 and/or the LDAC controller 105 to add, remove, and/or adjust the desired operational values of the conditioning schedule stored in database 116.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary LDAC control computing device 102 of the LDAC system 100 of FIG. 1 . LDAC control computing device 102 can include one or more processors 201, working memory 202, one or more input/output devices 203, instruction memory 207, a transceiver 204, one or more communication ports 209, and a display 206, all operatively coupled to one or more data buses 208. Data buses 208 allow for communication among the various devices. Data buses 208 can include wired, or wireless, communication channels.
Processors 201 can include one or more distinct processors, each having one or more cores. Each of the distinct processors can have the same or different structure. Processors 201 can include one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), and the like. Processors 201 can be configured to perform a certain function or operation by executing code, stored on instruction memory 207, embodying the function or operation. For example, processors 201 can be configured to perform one or more of any function, method, or operation disclosed herein.
Instruction memory 207 can store instructions that can be accessed (e.g., read) and executed by processors 201. For example, instruction memory 207 can be a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, a removable disk, CD-ROM, any non-volatile memory, or any other suitable memory. In this example instruction memory 207 includes LDAC control model data 207A that includes instructions characterizing algorithms (e.g., models) of any of the processes described herein to generate adjustment data. For example, one or more processors 201 may obtain LDAC control model data 207A from instruction memory 207, and may execute LDAC control model data 207A to establish any of the adjustment data generation processes described herein.
Further, processors 201 can store data to, and read data from, working memory 202. For example, processors 201 can store a working set of instructions to working memory 202, such as instructions loaded from instruction memory 207. Processors 201 can also use working memory 202 to store dynamic data created during the operation of LDAC control computing device 102. Working memory 202 can be a random access memory (RAM) such as a static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or any other suitable memory.
Input-output devices 203 can include any suitable device that allows for data input or output. For example, input-output devices 203 can include one or more of a keyboard, a touchpad, a mouse, a stylus, a touchscreen, a physical button, a speaker, a microphone, or any other suitable input or output device. Input-output device 203 may allow a user to provide input selecting or characterizing preferred operational values as described herein, for instance.
Communication port(s) 209 can include, for example, a serial port such as a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) connection, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, or any other suitable communication port or connection. In some examples, communication port(s) 209 allows for the programming of executable instructions in instruction memory 207. In some examples, communication port(s) 209 allow for the transfer (e.g., uploading or downloading) of data, such as opinion data (e.g., polling information).
Display 206 can display user interface 205. User interfaces 205 can enable user interaction with the LDAC control computing device 102. For example, user interface 205 can be a user interface for an application that allows a user to enter preferred operational values to update a conditioning schedule stored in database 116, for example. In some examples, a user can interact with user interface 205 by engaging input-output devices 203. In some examples, display 206 can be a touchscreen, where user interface 205 is displayed on the touchscreen.
Transceiver 204 allows for communication with a network, such as a wireless network established between LDAC control computing device 102 and LDAC controller 105. For example, transceiver 204 may connect to a WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, or any other suitable wireless network, and may send signals (e.g., data) to, and receive signals from, LDAC controller 105 over the wireless network. In some instances, transceiver 204 may, additionally or alternatively, communicate (e.g., directly communicate) with one or more sensors, such as sensors 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E, 120F over the wireless network. Processor(s) 201 is operable to receive data from, or send data to, the wireless network via transceiver 204.
FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary portions of the LDAC system 100 of FIG. 1 . In this example, LDAC controller 105 can receive sensor data from various sensors of the conditioner system 110. For instance, LDAC controller 105 can receive flow rate data 313 from one or more flow rate sensors 302, temperature data 315 from one or more temperature sensors 304, humidity data 317 from one or more humidity sensors 306, and concentration data 319 from one or more concentration sensors 308 (e.g., a liquid density sensor). Further, LDAC control computing device 102 may request and receive, from the LDAC controller 105, sensor data 330 generated by one or more of the flow rate sensors 302, temperature sensors 304, humidity sensors 306, and concentration sensors 308. For example, the sensor data 330 may include one or more of the flow rate data 313, temperature data 315, humidity data 317, and concentration data 319 from one or more of the sensors 302, 304, 306, 308. LDAC control computing device 102 may parse the sensor data 330 to generate elements of temperatures 330A, humidity values 330B, flow rates 330C, and concentration values 330D, and may store the elements of elements of temperatures 330A, humidity values 330B, flow rates 330C, and concentration values 330D within database 116.
The temperature data 315 may characterize a temperature of an air flow of the conditioner system 110, such as the stream of outside air 131, the stream of supply air 135, or the stream of return air 137. Similarly, the humidity values 330B may characterize a humidity or a dew point of an air flow of the conditioner system. Flow rates 330C may characterize a flow rate of an air flow of the conditioner system 110, or a flow rate of a conditioning fluid, such as liquid desiccant entering or exiting the conditioner system 110. Concentration values 330D may characterize a concentration (e.g., density) of the conditioning fluid entering or exiting the conditioner system 110.
As described herein, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate adjustment data based on one or more of the temperatures 330A, humidity values 330B, flow rates 330C, and concentration values 330D, and may transmit the adjustment data 323 to LDAC controller 105 to cause an adjustment to one or more of an exhaust air flow, a conditioning fluid flow rate, a working fluid flow rate, and a total air flow rate of the conditioner system 110. In this example, LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data 323 to LDAC controller 105 and, in response, LDAC controller 105 may signal a control module 350 of the conditioner system 110 to perform an adjustment of the conditioner system 110 in accordance with the adjustment data. The control module 350 may include any suitable hardware or software and hardware combination (e.g., one or more processors configured to execute instructions) configured to receive signaling, and cause corresponding adjustments to the conditioner system 110 (e.g., a change to an exhaust air flow, a conditioning fluid flow rate, a working fluid flow rate, or a total air flow of the conditioner system 110).
Database 116 may also store LDAC control model data 360, which may include model coefficients, parameters, thresholds, and/or other modelling data that collectively specify one or more of the adjustment data generation processes described herein. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may obtain LDAC control model data 360 from database 116, and may establish an model that generates adjustment data based one or more of the temperatures 330A, humidity values 330B, flow rates 330C, and concentration values 330D.
Database 116 may also store conditioning schedule 362. As described herein, the conditioning schedule 362 stores desired operational values during corresponding temporal intervals, such as desired temperatures, humidity levels, and supply air flow rates. Furthermore, database 116 may store control setting data 334 that includes values (e.g., current values) for one or more control settings of the conditioner system 110 and the regenerator system 112. For instance, the control setting data 334 may include temperature settings 334A (e.g., a current temperature setting), humidity settings 334B (e.g., a current humidity level setting), and flow rate settings 334C (e.g., a current flow rate setting) of the LDAC system 100. The LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, via LDA controller 105, control data characterizing one or more current control settings of the conditioner system 110 and/or the regenerator system 112.
Database 116 may further include conditioner system parameters 380 and regenerator system parameters 382. Conditioner system parameters 380 may include operational and/or performance parameters of a corresponding conditioner system, such as conditioner system 110. Regenerator system parameters 382 may include operational and/or performance parameters of a corresponding regenerator system such as regenerator system 112. In some instances, LDAC control computing device 102 obtains conditioner system parameters 380 and/or regenerator system parameters 382, and generates adjustment data based on one or more of the temperatures 330A, humidity values 330B, flow rates 330C, and concentration values 330D, and one or more of the conditioner system parameters 380 and/or regenerator system parameters 382.
FIG. 4 illustrates an LDAC system 400 that includes a conditioner system 410 communicatively coupled to an LDAC controller 105, a regeneration system 112, a CF tank 114, and an LDAC control computing device 102 communicatively coupled to the LDAC controller 105. In this example, conditioner system 410 includes a cooling core 404 that can cool and/or dehumidify a stream of mixed air 403 to provide a stream of supply air 435 to building 101. A supply air fan 402 (e.g., blower) may receive a stream of outside air 431, and/or a stream of return air 437 from building 101, to provide the stream of mixed air 403 to the cooling core 404. The conditioner system 410 may also provide a stream of exhaust air 413 to an outside environment. In some examples, a flow of the stream of outside air 431 is combined with a flow of the stream of return air 437 to provide the stream of mixed air 403 and the stream of exhaust air 413.
To dehumidify the stream of mixed air 403, the cooling core 404 may receive concentrated conditioning fluid 441 from the CF tank 114, and may distribute the concentrated conditioning fluid throughout mass transfer elements to dehumidify the stream of mixed air 403. Further, the conditioner system 404 collects the diluted conditioning fluid 443, and provides the diluted conditioning fluid 443 back to the CF tank 114.
Conditioner system 410 also includes a plurality of sensors that can detect temperatures, flow rates, humidity levels (e.g., dew points), and/or concentration levels. For example, temperature sensor 414A can detect a temperature of the stream of return air 437, and humidity sensor 414B can detect a dew point of the stream of return air 437. Similarly, temperature sensor 412A can detect a temperature of the stream of outside air 431, and humidity sensor 412B can detect a dew point of the stream of outside air 431. Further, temperature sensor 410A can detect a temperature of the stream of exhaust air 413, and humidity sensor 410B can detect a dew point of the stream of exhaust air 413. In addition, flow rate sensor 418A can detect a flow rate of the stream of supply air 435, and humidity sensor 418B can detect a humidity (e.g., dew point) of the stream of supply air 435. Flow concentration sensor 416A can detect a concentration of the conditioning fluid 441, and concentration sensor 416B can detect a concentration of the diluted conditioning fluid 443. As described herein, LDAC controller 105 can receive, via LDAC controller 105 or directly, sensor data from each of these sensors.
Furthermore, conditioner system 410 is configured to adjust a flow rate of each of the stream of exhaust air 413, the stream of outside air 431, and the stream of supply air 435. For instance, the cooling core 404 can direct a first portion (e.g., 0% to 100%) of the mixed air stream 403 as the supply air stream 435, and direct a second portion (e.g., 0% to 100%) of the mixed air stream 403 as the exhaust air stream 413.
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 generates adjustment data based on sensor data received from one or more of the sensors 410A, 410B, 412A, 412B, 414A, 414B, 416A, 416B, 418A, and 418B. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive temperature data from temperature sensor 414A characterizing a temperature of the stream of return air 437, and may further receive humidity data from humidity sensor 414B characterizing a humidity (e.g., dew point) of the stream of return air 437. Further, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive a desired temperature for building 101 from LDAC controller 105. Based on the temperature data, humidity data, and the desired temperature, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate adjustment data characterizing an exhaust air ratio for the stream of exhaust air 413. For example, the adjustment data may characterize an exhaust air ratio between 0% and 100%, inclusive. LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105, and in response, LDAC controller 105 may signal conditioner system 110 to adjust the stream of exhaust air 413 to establish the exhaust air ratio.
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate, based on the temperature data, the humidity data, and the desired temperature, adjustment data characterizing a conditioning fluid flow rate for the concentrated conditioning fluid 441. For example, the adjustment data may characterize a conditioning fluid flow rate between 0% and 100%, inclusive. LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105, and in response, LDAC controller 105 may signal conditioner system 110 to adjust the flow of the concentrated conditioning fluid 441 to the conditioning fluid flow rate.
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate, based on the temperature data, the humidity data, and the desired temperature, adjustment data characterizing a working fluid flow rate for working fluid, such as water, the cooling core 404 uses to cool the stream of mixed air 431. For example, the adjustment data may characterize a working fluid flow rate between 0% and 100%, inclusive. LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105, and in response, LDAC controller 105 may signal conditioner system 110 to adjust the flow of the working fluid to the working fluid flow rate.
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate, based on the temperature data, the humidity data, and the desired temperature, adjustment data characterizing a supply air flow rate for the stream of supply air 435. For example, the adjustment data may characterize a supply air flow rate between 0% and 100%, inclusive. LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105, and in response, LDAC controller 105 may signal conditioner system 110 to adjust the flow of the stream of supply air 435 (e.g., by increasing, or decreasing, a speed of the supply air fan 402).
In some examples, LDAC control computing device 102 receives, from temperature sensor 412A, additional temperature data charactering a temperature of the stream of outside air 431, and from humidity sensor 412B additional humidity data characterizing a humidity (e.g., dew point) of the stream of outside air 431. LDAC control computing device 102 may generate the adjustment data characterizing any of the exhaust air ratio, the conditioning fluid flow rate, the working fluid flow rate, and the supply air flow rate based further on one or more of the additional temperature data and the additional humidity data, and may transmit the adjustment data to LDAC controller 105 to cause the corresponding adjustment.
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary process 500 for adjusting a control setting of an LDAC system, such as the LDAC system 100 of FIG. 1 or LDAC system 400 of FIG. 4 . The exemplary process 500 may be carried out by one or more computing devices, such as the LDAC control computing device 102.
Beginning at block 502, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioning system is received from a first temperature sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from temperature sensor 414A, a first temperature of the stream of return air 437 for the conditioner system 110. At block 504, a first dew point of the first air flow is received from a first humidity sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from humidity sensor 414B, a first dew point of the stream of return air 437. Further, at block 506, a desired temperate for a conditioned space is received. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive a desired temperature for building 101 from LDAC controller 105.
Proceeding to block 508, adjustment data is generated based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature. The adjustment data characterizes an adjustment to at least one of an exhaust air flow, a desiccant flow rate, a water flow rate, and a total air flow rate of the conditioner system. For example, and as described herein, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate adjustment data by applying any of the adjustment data generation processes described herein to the first temperature of the stream of return air 437, the first dew point of the stream of return air 437, and the desired temperature for building 101. The adjustment data may characterize one or more of an adjustment to the stream of exhaust air 413, a flow rate of the concentrated conditioning fluid 441, a flow rate of the working fluid, an a flow rate of the stream of supply air 435.
At block 510, the adjustment data is transmitted to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the generated adjustment data to the conditioner system 110 to cause the adjustment of one or more of the stream of exhaust air 413, a flow rate of the concentrated conditioning fluid 441, a flow rate of the working fluid, an a flow rate of the stream of supply air 435.
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary process 600 for adjusting a control setting of an LDAC system, such as the LDAC system 100 of FIG. 1 or the LDAC system 400 of FIG. 4 . The exemplary process 600 may be carried out by one or more computing devices, such as the LDAC control computing device 102.
Beginning at block 602, a first temperature of an outside air flow entering a conditioning system is received from a first temperature sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from temperature sensor 412A, a temperature of the stream of outside air 431 for the conditioner system 110. At block 604, a second temperature of a return air flow entering the conditioning system is received from a second temperature sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from temperature sensor 414A, a temperature of the stream of return air 437 for the conditioner system 110.
At block 606, a first dew point of the outside air flow is received from a first humidity sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from humidity sensor 412B, a dew point of the stream of outside air 431. Further, at block 608, a second dew point of the return air flow is received from a second humidity sensor. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from humidity sensor 414B, a dew point of the stream of return air 437. Further, at block 610, a desired temperature for a space conditioned by a supply air flow exiting the conditioning system is received. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may receive, from LDAC controller 105, a desired temperature for building 101 conditioned by the stream of supply air 435 of the conditioner system 110.
Proceeding to block 612, adjustment data is generated based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and the desired temperature. The adjustment data characterizes an adjustment to an exhaust air flow, a desiccant flow rate, a water flow rate, and a total air flow rate of the conditioner system. For example, and as described herein, LDAC control computing device 102 may generate adjustment data by applying any of the adjustment data generation processes described herein to the temperature of the stream of outside air 431, the dew point of the stream of outside air 431, the temperature of the stream of return air 437, the dew point of the stream of return air 437, and the desired temperature for building 101. The adjustment data may characterize an adjustment to the stream of exhaust air 413.
At block 614, the adjustment data is transmitted to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment to the exhaust air flow of the conditioner system. For example, LDAC control computing device 102 may transmit the generated adjustment data to the conditioner system 110 to cause the adjustment to the flow of the stream of exhaust air 413.
As such, at least some embodiments receive sensor data indicating one or more of temperatures, dew points, air flow rates, and fluid concentrations of a conditioner system, and proactively adjust one or more of the conditioner system's control settings based on the sensor data to meet desired environment conditions. For example, and as described herein, a computing device may receive, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system. The computing device may also receive, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow. Further, the computing device may receive, from a second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a second air flow entering the conditioner system. The computing device may also receive a desired temperature for a conditioned space. The computing device may further generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, and (4) a total air flow rate of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, the second temperature, and the desired temperature. The computing device may then transmit the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.
The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a non-transitory, machine-readable storage medium storing instructions; and

at least one processor coupled to the non-transitory, machine-readable storage medium, the at least one processor being configured to execute the instructions to:

receive, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system;

receive, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow;

receive a desired temperature for a conditioned space;

generate adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, (4) a total air flow rate, and (5) and a liquid desiccant concentration of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature; and

transmit the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive, from a second humidity sensor, second dew point of a second air flow entering the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the second dew point.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive, from a second temperature sensor, a second temperature of the second air flow entering the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the second temperature.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first air flow is a return air flow entering the conditioner system and the second air flow is an outside air flow entering the conditioner system.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

determine a mixed air dew point for a mixed air flow entering the conditioner system based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and an outside air flow ratio; and

generate the adjustment data based on the mixed air dew point.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

determine a mixed air enthalpy based on the first temperature, the second temperature, the first dew point, the second dew point, and the outside air flow ratio;

determine a mixed air temperature based on the mixed air dew point and the mixed air enthalpy; and

generate the adjustment data based on the mixed air temperature.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive a desired dew point for the conditioned space; and

determine the mixed air temperature based on the desired dew point for the conditioned space.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to determine the mixed air flow based on a desired supply air flow for the conditioned space and an exhaust air flow ratio.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive a desired dew point for the conditioned space; and

generate the adjustment data based on the desired dew point.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustment data characterizes the adjustment to the exhaust air flow as a proportion of a supply air flow for the conditioned space.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustment data characterizes the adjustment to the total air flow rate of the conditioner system.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the adjustment data characterizes the adjustment to at least one of the exhaust air flow, the desiccant flow rate, and the water flow rate.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive desiccant data characterizing a concentration of liquid desiccant entering the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the desiccant data.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive desiccant data characterizing a concentration of liquid desiccant exiting the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the desiccant data.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive a flow rate of liquid desiccant entering the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the flow rate of liquid desiccant.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to:

receive a flow rate of liquid desiccant exiting the conditioner system; and

generate the adjustment data based on the flow rate of liquid desiccant.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustment data further characterizes an adjustment to a liquid desiccant concentration.

18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first air flow is a return air flow entering the conditioner system.

19. A method by at least one processor, the method comprising:

receiving, from a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of a first air flow entering a conditioner system;

receiving, from a first humidity sensor, a first dew point of the first air flow;

receiving a desired temperature for a conditioned space;

generating adjustment data characterizing an adjustment to at least one of: (1) an exhaust air flow, (2) a desiccant flow rate, (3) a water flow rate, and (4) a total air flow rate of the conditioner system based on at least one of the first temperature, the first dew point, and the desired temperature; and

transmitting the adjustment data to the conditioner system to cause the adjustment.

20. A non-transitory, computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations comprising:

receiving a desired temperature for a conditioned space;