Abstrict An apparatus and method is disclosed for an improved air conditioning
system for admitting air from an exterior space, adjusting the temperature
and humidity of the exterior air, delivering the adjusted air to
an interior space of a structure, removal of exhaust air therefrom
and return of the exhaust air to the exterior space and wherein
a regenerative desiccant is provided for removing water vapor from
the air to be delivered to the interior space and delivering the
water vapor to the exhaust air stream and a heat exchanger is provided
for removing sensible heat4 from the air to be delivered to the
interior space and transferring the sensible heat to the exhaust
air stream. The apparatus combines for the first time electric air
conditioning reheat and solar energy with desiccant technology,
thereby furnishing conditioned air at an 80% reduction fo energy
cost. The apparatus for the first time allows the use of waste oil
heat to furnish conditioned air at an 80% reduction in energy cost.
Additionally, natural gas or propane gas may be used at a great
reduction in erngy cost vs. electrical cost. The apparatus allows
the reduction in electrical power presently used to condition air
for use in a give space.
Claims What is claimed is:
1. An improved air conditioning system for admitting air from a
space, adjusting the temperature and humidity of the air, and delivering
the adjusted air to an interior space of a structure, comprising:
a first path for conditioning air including a first air intake
means for admitting air to be conditioned;
an air supply first blower means communicating with said first
air intake means for receiving, pressurizing and moving the air
from said first air intake means;
a precooling heat exchanger coil for precooling the air received
from the first air intake means;
a desiccant wheel rotatable through a first zone and second zone,
the first zone communicating with said air supply first blower means
and receiving the precooled air from said exterior air supply first
blower means for reducing the humidity by means of reducing the
water vapor content of the air passing therethrough;
a recooling heat exchanger coil for cooling the air with reduced
water vapor content from said desiccant wheel for downwardly adjusting
the temperature of air displaced therethrough to thereby maintain
the absolute humidity of the air at the region after the recooling
coil as the region prior to the recooling coil;
a humidifier coil to add moisture to the recooled air;
a conditioned first air exit means communicating with said humidifier
coil for receiving the temperature and humidity adjusted air from
said humidifier coil and communicating with the interior space of
a structure for delivery thereto;
a second path independent of the first path for indirect evaporative
cooling of air including a second air intake means for accepting
air;
a second air blower means for receiving and moving air through
the second path;
a second air exit means communicating with said second air blower
means for receiving second air from said second air blower means
and communicating with the exterior of the structure for delivery
of the second air thereto;
a cooling tower pad in the second path with an output feed line
and pump coupled to the input of the precooling coil and recooling
coil and an input return line coupled to the output of the precooling
coil and recooling coil;
a third path, independent of the first path and second path for
regeneration of desiccant air including a third air intake means,
condenser coil, hot water coil and blower associated therewith and
the second zone of said desiccant wheel wherein said desiccant wheel
communicates with said regenerated third air intake means for regeneration
of said desiccant wheel by transfer of water vapor and subsequent
removal; and
a third regeneration air exit means communicating with said second
zone of said desiccant wheel for receiving regeneration air from
said second zone of said desiccant wheel.
2. An improved air conditioning system for admitting air from a
space, adjusting the temperature and humidity of the air, delivering
the adjusted air to an interior space of a structure,
a first path for conditioning air including a first air intake
means for admitting air to be conditioned;
an air supply first blower means communicating with said first
air intake means for receiving, pressurizing and moving the air
from said first air intake means;
a precooling heat exchanger coil for precooling the air received
from the first air intake means;
a desiccant wheel rotatable through a first zone and second zone,
the first zone communicating with said air supply first blower means
and receiving the precooled air from said exterior air supply first
blower means for reducing the humidity by means of reducing the
water vapor content of the air passing therethrough;
a recooling heat exchanger coil for cooling the air with reduced
water vapor content from said desiccant wheel for downwardly adjusting
the temperature of air displaced therethrough to thereby maintain
the absolute humidity of the air at the region after the recooling
coil as the region prior to the recooling coil;
a humidifier coil to add moisture to the recooled air;
a conditioned first air exit means communicating with said humidifier
coil for receiving the temperature and humidity adjusted air from
said humidifier coil and communicating with the interior space of
a structure for delivery thereto;
a second path independent of the first path and remote therefrom
for indirect evaporative cooling of air including a second air intake
means for accepting air;
a second air blower means for receiving and moving air through
the second path;
a second air exit means communicating with said second air blower
means for receiving saturated second air from said second air blower
means and communicating with the exterior of the structure for delivery
of the second air thereto;
a cooling tower with a pad in the second path with an output feed
line and pump coupled to the input of the precooling coil and recooling
coil and an input return line coupled to the output of the precooling
coil and recooling coil and terminating at a water sprinkler for
the flow of water over the cooling tower pad into a cool water storage
therebeneath;
a third path, independent of the first path and second path for
regeneration of desiccant air including a third air intake means,
condenser coil, hot water coil and blower associated therewith and
the second zone of said desiccant wheel wherein said desiccant wheel
communicates with said regenerated third air intake means for regeneration
of said desiccant wheel by transfer of water vapor and subsequent
removal; and
a third regeneration air exit means communicating with said second
zone of said desiccant wheel for receiving regeneration air from
said second zone of said desiccant wheel.
3. An improved air conditioning system for admitting air, adjusting
the temperature and humidity of the air, and delivering the adjusted
air to an interior space of a structure comprising:
a first path for conditioning air including a first air intake
means for admitting air to be conditioned;
an air supply first blower means communicating with the first air
intake means for receiving, pressurizing and moving the air from
the first air intake means;
a desiccant means movable through a first zone and second zone,
the first zone communicating with the air supply first blower means
and receiving the pressurized air moved by the exterior air supply
first blower means for reducing the humidity by means of reducing
the water vapor content of the air passing therethrough;
a heat exchanger means having a first area for accepting heat and
a second area for rejecting heat, wherein the first area of the
heat exchanger means communicates with the desiccant means for receiving
the air with reduced water vapor content from the desiccant means
for downwardly adjusting the temperature of air displaced therethrough;
a conditioned first air exit means communicating with the heat
exchanger means for receiving the temperature and humidity adjusted
air and communicating with the interior space of a structure for
delivery thereto;
a second path independent of the first path including a second
air intake means with the second area of the heat exchanger thereadjacent
wherein the accepted air passes over the second area and removes
heat from the second area of the heat exchanger means;
a second air blower means for receiving and moving air from the
second area of the heat exchanger means;
a second air exit means communicating with the second air blower
means for receiving second air from the second air blower means;
a third path, independent of the first path and second path for
regeneration of desiccant air including a third air intake means,
a heater associated therewith and the second zone of the desiccant
means wherein the desiccant means communicates with the regenerated
third air intake means for regeneration of the desiccant means;
and
a third regeneration air exit means communicating with the second
zone of the desiccant means for receiving regeneration air from
the second zone of the desiccant means for delivery of the regeneration
air thereto.
Description BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an improved air conditioning system,
and more particularly to a regenerative desiccant based temperature
and humidity controlling system.
2. Description of the Background Art
Presently, the need to control the temperature and humidity of
the interior spaces of structures has risen to prominence as an
absolute necessity for both man and machine. Modern electrical,
mechanical and electronic devices generate substantial quantities
of heat, but may be intolerant of extreme temperatures, as is the
case with modern electronic devices. Further, the effects of temperature
and humidity extremes on the comfort and productivity of man is
a fundamentally accepted principle. Environmental control, when
originally established and as it progressed, was not mandated to
address the issue of energy conservation since there was an abundance
of energy at reasonable cost. As the energy supply became more acute,
the demand increased and energy costs escalated, a new energy awareness
was established, wherein more complex and expensive equipment could
easily be justified if a net energy savings could be realized by
purchase and use of this new equipment.
The original equipment to control the environment used refrigeration
equipment to cool the air and for dehumidification and a variety
of mechanisms, devices, and fuels to heat the air to the desired
temperature. The use of desiccating materials and heat exchangers
to control the temperature and humidity of interior spaces advanced
the state of the art and provided more energy efficient mechanisms.
A wide variety of air conditioning systems have evolved and have
been developed, however, system improvements have been incremental
and systems developed using the prior art have not fully answered
the needs of efficient energy conservation and still providing adequate
environmental control of interior spaces.
As evidenced by a large number of prior art patents, efforts are
continuing to improve air conditioning systems. Consider for example,
U.S. Pat. No. 4719761 to Cromer discloses moisture removal by
a combination of regenerative desiccation and a standard compressor
type air cooling system, wherein moisture removed from cooled air
by means of a solid or liquid desiccant is evaporated into the incoming
air, regenerating the desiccant. Moisture removal is effected by
the compressor type cooling system and the regenerated desiccant.
U.S. Pat. No. 2926502 to Munters et al discloses an air conditioning
system including the recycling of enclosure and air at least 3 air
flow paths. Recycle enclosure air multiple passages--all embodiments
including a recycling of interior space conditioned air path, a
regeneration air path and a supplementary air path for additional
heat exchange.
U.S. Pat. No. 3009684 to Munters discloses an apparatus and method
of conditioning air by thermodynamic exchange wherein the input
heat required by the system may be provided by gas, oil or steam.
Parallel air paths are described wherein a first path removes interior
air and a second path delivers conditioned air to the interior space
to be environmentally controlled, plus a third path wherein incoming
air is divided and is used to regenerate a second moisture transfer
wheel. A second heat transfer wheel and heater system are also provided
in this third path.
U.S. Pat. No. 4594860 to Coellner et al discloses an open cycle
desiccant air conditioning system and associated components.
Both moisture transfer and heat exchanger wheels utilized are formed
by wrapping layers of the appropriate material about a shaft, and
terminating with the installation of a metallic rim. Moisture transfer
and heat exchanger wheels rotate in opposite directions, and a sector
baffle system is provided to direct air flow from the moisture transfer
wheel containing an appropriate desiccant and the heat transfer
wheel.
U.S. Pat. No. 2186844 to Smith discloses a refrigeration apparatus
wherein heat from a mechanical refrigeration unit regenerates desiccant.
U.S. Pat. No. 2200243 to Newton et al discloses an air conditioning
system dehumidification of the air is required and particularly
addresses a control system for a desiccant based dehumidifying air
conditioning system
U.S. Pat. No. 3144901 to Meek discloses an air conditioning system
wherein a rotary evaporator and heat transfer system is followed
by additional evaporative cooling to further reduce temperature
and increase humidity to normal levels. The system circulates fresh
outside air into the interior space and exhausts air to exterior
spaces. Regeneration heat is provided by burners utilizing any suitable
fuel and has U-shaped flue tubes to heat air passing through the
moisture transfer wheel.
U.S. Pat. No. 2186844 to Smith discloses an air conditioning
system wherein heat from a mechanical refrigeration unit regenerates
the LiCl desiccant impregnated on vertical cloth rotating wheel.
U.S. Pat. No. 3247679 to Meckler discloses a process and apparatus
for cooling and dehumidifying air wherein exhaust heat from a heat
engine whose shaft power drives refrigeration equipment is used
to regenerate the desiccant.
U.S. Pat. No. 3488971 to Meckler discloses a system for supplying
comfort conditioned air to an interior space wherein a heat recapture
system for lighting is described to provide regeneration heat for
a desiccant.
As will become evident, nothing in the prior art provides the benefits
and advantages attendant with the present invention.
Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide an improvement
which overcomes the aforementioned inadequacies of the prior art
devices and provides an improvement which is a significant contribution
to the advancement of the art.
Another object of the invention is to provide an improved air conditioning
system for admitting air from an exterior space, adjusting the temperature
and humidity of the exterior air, delivering the adjusted air to
an interior space of a structure, subsequent removal of exhaust
air from the interior space and return of the exhaust air to the
exterior space.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved
air conditioning system wherein a humidifying means is disposed
to and in communication with a heating means and with the conditioned
air exit means is provided for receiving the temperature adjusted
reduced water vapor content air from the heating means, for upwardly
adjusting the water vapor content of the air, and for delivery of
the temperature and humidity of the air, and for delivery of the
temperature and humidity adjusted air to the conditioned air exit
means.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved
air conditioning system wherein more economical operation, lower
maintenance costs, and lower weight are provided relative to conventional
air conditioning systems.
Another object of the invention is to provide an improved air conditioning
system wherein a safe efficient means is provided to convert environmentally
hazardous waste products including waste oil into cooling and heating
energy.
The foregoing has outlined some of the pertinent objects of the
invention. These objects should be construed to merely illustrative
of some of the more prominent features and applications of the intended
invention. Many other beneficial results can be attained by applying
the disclosed invention in a different manner or modifying the invention
within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other objects and
a fuller understanding of the invention and the detailed description
of the preferred embodiment in addition to the scope of the invention
defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
For the purpose of summarizing this invention, this invention comprises
a new and improved method and apparatus for an air conditioning
system for admitting air from an exterior space, adjusting the temperature
and humidity of the exterior air, delivering the adjusted air to
an interior space of a structure, removal of exhaust air therefrom
and return of the exhaust air to the exterior space. An air intake
means if provided for admitting the exterior air to an exterior
air supply blower means which pressurizes and moves the exterior
air through the supply system. A desiccant means having a desiccating
area and a regeneration area is provided wherein the desiccating
area communicates with the exterior air supply blower means and
receives the pressurized exterior air from the exterior air supply
blower means for reducing the humidity of the exterior air passing
therethrough. A heat exchanger means having a cooled area and a
heated area is provided wherein the cooled area of the heat exchanger
means communicates with the desiccant means for receiving the exterior
air with reduced water vapor content from the desiccant means and
wherein the heat exchanger means downwardly adjusts the temperature
of air displaced therethrough. A heating means is provided which
communicates with the heat exchanger means for receiving the cooled
reduced water vapor content air from the heat exchanger means for
optionally and seasonally upwardly adjusting the temperature of
air displaced therethrough. A conditioned air exit means communicating
with the interior space of a structure for delivery of the conditioned
air thereto.
The system provides an exhaust air intake means for removing air
from the interior space of a structure, and wherein the exhaust
air passes over and removes heat from the heated area of the heat
exchanger means and the regeneration area of the desiccant means
communicates with the heated area of the heat exchanger means for
regeneration of the desiccant means by vaporization of water and
subsequent removal. An exhaust air blower means communicating with
the regeneration means is provided for receiving and moving exhaust
air from the regeneration means to an exhaust air exit means for
delivery of the exhaust air to the exterior.
In a more specific embodiment of the invention, a humidifying means
disposed to and communicating with the heating means and with the
conditioned air exit means is provided for receiving the temperature
adjusted, reduced water vapor content air from the heating means,
for upwardly adjusting the water vapor content of the air, and for
delivery of the temperature and humidity adjusted air to the conditioned
air exit means.
In one embodiment of the invention, an evaporative cooling means,
disposed to and communicating with the exhaust air intake means
and with the regeneration means, is provided for evaporatively cooling
the exhaust air.
In one embodiment of the invention, the regeneration means comprises
a finned tube liquid to air heat exchanger wherein the heated liquid
is provided by a boiler fueled by combustible fuels including gas,
oil, waste oil or the like.
In another embodiment of the invention, the regeneration means
comprises a finned tube liquid to air heat exchanger wherein the
heated liquid is provided by a solar heating means.
In a more specific embodiment of the invention, the regeneration
means comprises a fined tube liquid to air heat exchanger wherein
the heated liquid is provided by an internal combustion engine cooling
system means.
In a more specific embodiment of the invention, a plenum means
is provided for mounting the air conditioning system, for admitting
the adjusted air from the conditioned air exit means to an interior
space of a structure, for removal of exhaust air from an interior
space of a structure for delivery of the exhaust air to an exhaust
air intake means of the air conditioning system.
In another embodiment of the invention, the regulation of the desiccant
material is provided by the existing air conditioning systems by
routing the hot gas through coils in the invention and also an additional
coil in which a solar liquid is circulated to provide heat for regeneration.
Additionally, spray heads or evaporator pads are placed in heat
exchanger air stream to treat the air before reaching the heat exchanger
wheel this process further reduces the supply air temperature to
the interior space.
Additionally, another embodiment of this invention is the use of
silicagel or zeolite wheel using a direct or indirect fired gas
or waste oil or oil burner to super heat the desiccant for regeneration
to temperatures exceeding 300 degrees fahrenheit as to lower constant
humidity to the space below 20% RH for specialized hi-tech and industrial
applications.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and
important features of the present invention in order that the detailed
description of the invention that follows may be better understood
so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated.
Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter
which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should
be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and
the specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis
for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the
same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized
by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do
not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth
in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention,
reference should be had to the following detailed description taken
in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention.
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an improved air
conditioning system mounted on a plenum means incorporating the
present invention.
FIG. 6 is a clock diagram of a forth embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present air conditioning
system with electric air conditioning and solar energy panels.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a fifth embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system with a direct or indirect fired burner using
a solid desiccant.
FIG. 8 is block diagram of a sixth embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a seventh embodiment of the invention.
Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout
the several Figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
FIG. 1 is an isometric view and FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a
first embodiment of an improved air conditioning system incorporating
the present invention, wherein system components are affixed to
chassis. System input air 5 comprising unconditioned outside air,
return air, or any combination thereof, is drawn through outside
air intake 20 and air filter 30 by means of suction provided by
forced air intake blower 40. An optional return/mixing air port
25 is provided in chassis 10. Forced air intake blower 40 further
forces system input air 5 through desiccant wheel 50 rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 heating coil 70 optional humidifier 80
and side discharge port 90. Alternately, an optional discharge port
95 is provided in chassis 10 to allow discharge of conditioned air
100 for delivery to an interior space. Return air 105 comprising
return air from an interior space. Return air 105 comprising return
air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination thereof
is drawn through outside/return air port 110 by means of suction
provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. An optional return air
port 115 is provided in chassis 10 for return air 105 from an interior
space. Air exhaust blower 140 further draws return air 105 through
air filter 30 optional evaporative elements 120 rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 regeneration coil 130 desiccant wheel
50 through air exhaust air port 150 to exterior space. Required
electrical disconnect 170 and control section 180 are also provided.
Control section 180 comprises required control circuitry, sensors,
plumbing and wiring necessary for proper system operation. Desiccant
wheel rotary motive power and mechanical apparatus 190 as well as
heat exchanger rotary motive power and mechanical apparatus 200
are not shown. The system and apparatus is substantially divided
into a supply section 1 which conditions system input air 5 and
an exhaust section 2 which removes air from the interior space and
reconditions the desiccant wheel 50 and the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60.
In the cooling cycle, unconditioned system input air 5 enters the
outside air intake 20 and passes through a high efficiency disposable
air filter 30 which is typically a disposable pleated type air
filter which essentially removes all particulate matter larger than
5 microns, and may be treated to capture bacteria and other contaminants.
Forced air intake blower 40 which may be belt or direct motor driven,
draws filtered system input air 5 from air filter 30 pressurizes
it and forces the filtered system input air 5 through the balance
of the supply section 1. Axially and rotatably mounted, motor and
belt drive desiccant wheel 50 comprising liquid or dry desiccants
disposed to metallic or fiberglass reinforced plastic base material,
is substantially equally divided into a supply sector 51 and an
exhaust sector 52 by means of duct/seal 55 comprising a substantially
air tight seal between the supply sector 51 and exhaust sector 52
of desiccant wheel 50. Filtered system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 51 if desiccant wheel 50 where water vapor, contained
in filtered outside air 5 is absorbed by the desiccant material
comprising the supply sector 51 of desiccant wheel 50. The process
of water vapor removal releases latent heat of vaporization, resulting
in heating of filtered dehumidified system input air 5.
Axially and rotatably mounted and motor driven rotary generative
heat exchanger wheel 60 comprising a metallic or fiberglass reinforced
plastic material, is substantially equally divided into a supply
sector 61 and an exhaust sector 62 by means of duct/seal 65 comprising
a substantially air tight seal between the supply sector 61 and
exhaust sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60.
The filtered, dehumidified, heated system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 and heat contained in filtered, dehumidified, heated system input
air 5 is transferred to the structure of the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 lowering the temperature of the filtered,
dehumidified system input air 5.
The filtered, dehumidified, cooled system input air 5 has been
reduced to a low enthalpy or energy content and may be humidified
by means of optional humidifier coil 80. This addition of water
vapor effectively substitutes increased humidity for reduced temperature
and does not alter the enthalpy value. Conditioned air 100 exits
side discharge port 90 at temperature, humidity, and enthalpy values
substantially identical with those provided by conventional vapor
compression devices. Discharge port 90 disposed to conventional
HVAC duct work provides the pathway for conditioned air 100 to enter
interior space.
Outside/return air port 110 disposed to conventional HVAC duct
work provides the pathway for return air 105 to exit interior space
and enter exhaust section 2 of the apparatus through air filter
30 wherein evaporative cooling element 120 optionally evaporatively
cools return air 105. Return air 105 flows through the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 removing heat and lowering the temperature
of the structure. As rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60
axially rotates heat is transferred from filtered, heated system
input air 5 in supply section 1 to supply sector 51 structure of
rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60. Continued rotation
of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 continually moves
increments of supply sector 51 through duct/seal 65 into exhaust
sector 62 wherein heat is removed and the temperature of the exhaust
sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 is lowered.
Further rotation of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60
returns increments of exhaust sector 62 through duct/seal 65 into
supply sector 61. Return air 105 heated by contact with exhaust
sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 is further
heated as return air 105 passes through regeneration coil 130 comprising
a finned tube liquid to air heat exchanger. The fluid heat source
may be a variety of heat producing mechanisms. These mechanism include,
but are not limited to boilers fired by gas, oil, or waste oil;
solar; or heat reclaimed from an engine cooling system.
The heated return air 105 flows through the exhaust sector 52 of
desiccant wheel 50 heating and drying, thereby regenerating, the
desiccant. Continued rotation of desiccant wheel 50 continually
moves increments of supply sector 51 through duct/seal 55 into exhaust
sector 52 wherein moisture is removed from exhaust sector 52 of
desiccant wheel 50. Further rotation of desiccant wheel 50 returns
increments of exhaust sector 52 of desiccant wheel 50 through duct/seal
55 into supply sector 51 of desiccant wheel 50. Moisture laden exhaust
air 160 passes through exhaust air blower 140 and exits the apparatus
to exterior space through exhaust air port 150.
In the heating mode, the optional evaporative elements 120 and
desiccant wheel 50 are disabled and regeneration coil 130 is disabled
by diversion of heated fluid flow to heating coil 70. System input
air 5 enters the outside air intake 20 and passes through air filter
30. Forced air intake blower 40 draws filtered system input air
5 from air filter 30 pressurizes it and forces the filtered system
input air 5 through the balance of the supply section 1. Desiccant
wheel 50 is disabled, and does not substantially alter the temperature,
moisture content or enthalpy of system input air 5 passing therethrough.
The filtered system input air 5 passes through the supply sector
61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 and heat contained
in the structure of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 is transferred to and increase the temperature of the filtered
system input air 5. The filtered heated system input air 5 is further
heated as it passes through heating coil 70 comprising a liquid
to air heat exchanger, wherein heated liquid may be provided by,
but are not limited to, boilers fired by gas, oil, or waste oil;
solar; or heat reclaimed from an engine cooling system. Humidification
of system input air 5 is optionally performed by humidifier coil
80. Conditioned air 100 exits side discharge port 90 disposed to
conventional HVAC duct work provides the pathway for conditioned
air 100 to enter interior space.
Return air port 110 disposed to conventional HVAC duct--work provides
the pathway for return air 105 to exit interior space and enter
exhaust section 2 of the apparatus through air filter 30. Evaporative
cooling element 120 is disabled, and does not substantially alter
the temperature, moisture content or enthalpy of return air 105
passing therethrough. Return air 105 flows through the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 and transfers heat thereto, removing heat
and lowering the temperature of the return air 105 and increases
the temperature of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60. As rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 axially rotates
heat is transferred from return air 105 in exhaust section 2 to
exhaust sector 62 structure of rotary regenerative heat exchanger
wheel 60. Continued rotation of rotary regenerative heat exchanger
wheel 60 continually moves increments of exhaust sector 62 through
duct/seal 65 into supply sector 61 wherein heat is transferred
to system input air 5 and the temperature of the supply sector 61
of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 is lowered. Further
rotation of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 returns
increments of supply sector 61 through duct/seal 65 into exhaust
sector 62. Contact of return air 105 with exhaust sector 62 of rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 results in heating of structure
of exhaust sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60. Return air 105 passes through the disabled degeneration coil
13 and desiccant wheel 50 and the temperature, moisture content
or enthalpy of system input air 5 passing therethrough is not substantially
altered. Return air 105 passes through exhaust air blower 140 and
exits the apparatus to exterior space through exhaust air port 150.
With a 0 degree Fahrenheit exterior temperature a typical system
would provide heating performance of 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
air for delivery to the interior spaces. Return air 105 of 70 degrees
Fahrenheit at rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 will heat
outside air at 0 degrees Fahrenheit to 64.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention, wherein
system components are affixed to chassis 10. The system and apparatus
is substantially divided into a supply section 1 which conditions
system input air 5 and an exhaust section 2 which is further subdivided
into a heat exchanger exhaust section 2a and a desiccant exhaust
section 2b. System input air 5 comprising unconditioned outside
air, return air, or any combination thereof, is drawn through outside
air intake 20 and air filter 30 by means of suction provided by
forced air intake blower 40. An optional return/mixing air port
25 is provided in chassis 10. Forced air intake blower 40 further
forces system input air 5 through heating coil 70 desiccant wheel
50 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 optional evaporator
elements 120 optional humidifier 80 and side discharge port 90.
Alternately, an optional discharge port 95 is provided in chassis
10 to allow discharge of conditioned air 100 for delivery to an
interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 comprising
return air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination
thereof is drawn through heat exchanger return air port 111 by means
of suction provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. An optional
return air port 115 is provided in chassis 10 for return air 105
from an interior space. Air exhaust blower 140 further draws return
air 105 through air filter 30 air exhaust blower 140 and forces
return air 105 through optional evaporative elements 120 rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 through heat exchanger exhaust
air port 151 wherein heat exchanger exhaust air 161 exits to exterior
space.
In desiccant exhaust section 2b, return air 105 comprising return
air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination thereof
is drawn through and heated by enclosed burner 210 drawn through
desiccant exhaust return air port 112 by and filter 30 by means
of suction provided by forced air exhaust blower 140 which further
forces return air 105 through desiccant wheel 50 and desiccant
exhaust air 162 exits system through desiccant exhaust port 152.
Required electrical disconnect 170 and control section 180 comprising
required control circuitry, sensors, plumbing and wiring necessary
for proper system operation, desiccant wheel rotary motive power
and mechanical apparatus 190 as well as heat exchanger rotary motive
power and mechanical apparatus 200 are also provided, but not shown.
In the heating mode, the optional evaporative elements 120 desiccant
wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust section 2b are disabled. System
input air 5 enters the outside air intake 20 and passes through
air filter 30. Forced air intake blower 40 draws filtered system
input air 5 from air filter 30 pressurizes it and forces the filtered
system input air 5 through the balance of the supply section 1.
The filtered heated system input air 5 is further heated as it passes
through heating coil 70 wherein enclosed burner 210 provides heat
to heating coil 70. Desiccant wheel 50 is disabled, and does not
substantially alter the temperature, moisture content or enthalpy
of system input air 5 passing therethrough. Axially and rotatably
mounted and motor driven rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 is substantially equally divided into a supply sector 61 and
an exhaust sector 62. The filtered system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 and heat contained in the structure of the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 is transferred to and increases the temperature
of the filtered system input air 5. Conditioned air 100 exits side
discharge port 90 disposed to conventional HVAC duct work provides
the pathway for heated, conditioned air 100 to enter interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 is drawn through
heat exchanger return air port 111 and filter 30 by means of suction
provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. Air exhaust blower 140
further forces return air 105 through disabled optional evaporative
elements 120 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein
return air 105 passes through the exhaust sector 62 of the rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 transferring heat to the structure
of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 forcing heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 through heat exchanger exhaust air port
151 to exterior space.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention, wherein
system components are affixed to chassis 10. The system and apparatus
is substantially divided into a supply section 1 which conditions
system input air 5 and an exhaust section 2 which is further subdivided
into a heat exchanger exhaust section 2a and a desiccant exhaust
section 2b. In the cooling cycle, wherein component function has
been described in FIG. 2 system input air 5 comprising unconditioned
outside air, return air, or any combination thereof, is drawn through
outside air intake 20 and air filter 30 by means of suction provided
by forced air intake blower 40. An optional return/mixing air port
25 is provided in chassis 10. Forced air intake blower 40 further
forces system input air 5 through desiccant wheel 50 rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 optional evaporator elements 120 optional
humidifier 80 and side discharge port 90. Alternately, an optional
discharge port 95 is provided in chassis 10 to allow discharge of
conditioned air 100 for delivery to an interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 comprising
return air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination
thereof is drawn through heat exchanger return air port 111 by means
of suction provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. An optional
return air port 115 is provided in chassis 10 for return air 105
from an interior space. Air exhaust blower 140 further draws return
air 105 through air filter 0 air exhaust blower 140 and forces
return air 105 through optional evaporative elements 120 rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 through heat exchanger exhaust
air port 151 wherein heat exchanger exhaust air 161 enters recirculation
duct 230 and flows into natural gas furnace 220 wherein heat exchanger
exhaust air 161 is further heated, and flows into desiccant exhaust
section 2b. Heat exchanger exhaust air 161 is further forced through
desiccant exhaust return air port 112 desiccant wheel 50 and desiccant
exhaust air 162 exits system through desiccant exhaust port 152.
Required electrical disconnect 170 and control section 180 comprising
required control circuitry, sensors, plumbing and wiring necessary
for proper system operation, desiccant wheel rotary motive power
and mechanical apparatus 190 as well as heat exchanger rotary motive
power and mechanical apparatus 200 are also provided, but not shown.
In the operation of heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air
105 is drawn into heat exchanger return air port 111 through air
filter 30 by action of exhaust air blower 140 further forcing
return air 105 through optional evaporative elements 120 wherein
return air 5 is evaporatively cooled, through rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein cooled return air 105 removes heat
and lowers the temperature of the structure of rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel exhaust sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat
exchanger wheel 60 as previously described under FIG. 2 and heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 is discharged to an exterior space through
heat exchanger exhaust air port 151.
In the operation of desiccant exhaust section 2b, system input
air 5 is heated by enclosed burner 210 drawn into desiccant exhaust
intake 112 through air filter 30 by action of exhaust air blower
140 further forcing heated system input air 5 through the exhaust
sector 52 of desiccant wheel 50 heating and drying, thereby regenerating
the desiccant and desiccant exhaust air 162 is discharged to an
exterior space through heat exchanger exhaust air port 152.
In the heating mode, the optional evaporative elements 120 desiccant
wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust section 2b are disabled. System
input air 5 enters the outside air intake 20234 and passes through
air filter 30. Forced air intake blower 40 draws filtered system
input air 5 from air filter 30 pressurizes it and forces the filtered
system input air 5 through the balance of the supply section 1.
The filtered heated system input air 5 is further heated as it passes
through heating coil 70 wherein enclosed burner 210 provides heat
to heating coil 70. Desiccant wheel 50 is disabled, and does not
substantially alter the temperature, moisture content or enthalpy
of system input air 5 passing therethrough. Axially and rotatably
mounted and motor driven rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 is substantially equally divided into a supply sector 61 and
an exhaust sector 62. The filtered system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 and heat contained in the structure of the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 is transferred to and increases the temperature
of the filtered system input air 5. Conditioned air 100 exits side
discharge port 90 disposed to conventional HVAC duct work provides
the pathway for heated, conditioned air 100 to enter interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 is drawn through
heat exchanger return air port 111 and filter 30 by means of suction
provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. Air exhaust blower 140
further forces return air 105 through disabled optional evaporative
elements 120 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein
return air 105 passes through the exhaust sector 62 of the rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 transferring heat to the structure
of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 forcing heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 through heat exchanger exhaust air port
151 to exterior space.
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an improved air
conditioning system mounted on a plenum means incorporating the
present invention, wherein cover housing 260 fabricated to protect
components from mechanical damage or elemental degradation, of air
conditioning system 240 is affixed to chassis 10. Plenum/curb 250
affixed to structure roof 280 provides a mounting platform for chassis
10 of air conditioning system 240. Plenum/curb 250 described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4403481 provides a pathway for communication between
supply and return air and air conditioner 240 when used in conjunction
with optional chassis mounted return air ports 25 115 and discharge
port 95 (not shown) previously described in FIGS. 234. Weather
shields 270 prevent entry of rain and other foreign materials into
outside air intake 20. Side discharge port 90 and return air port
110 are illustrated in a disabled condition, with their respective
functions being accepted by discharge port 95 and return air port
115 and curb/plenum 250.
Heat for regeneration of desiccant, as well as increasing supply
air temperatures, as required, may be provided by:
a heated fluid, wherein fluid heat is provided by natural gas,
propane, waste oil, other combustible fuels or the cooling system
of an engine;
heated air, wherein the air is heated by means of a hot air furnace
which may use natural gas, propane, waste oil, other combustible
fuels; and
direct fired burner, wherein the regeneration air is directly heated
by means of a burner which may use natural gas, propane, waste oil,
other combustible fuels.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention, wherein
system components are affixed to chassis 10. The system and apparatus
is substantially divided into a supply section 1 which conditions
system input air 5 and an exhaust section 2 which is further subdivided
into a heat exchanger exhaust section 2a and a desiccant exhaust
section 2b. System input air 5 comprising unconditioned outside
air, return air, or any combination thereof, is drawn through outside
air intake 20 and air filter 30 by means of suction provided by
forced air intake blower 40. An optional return/mixing air port
25 is provided in chassis 10. Forced air intake blower 40 further
forces system input air 5 through heating coil 70 desiccant wheel
50 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 evaporator elements
120 optional humidifier 80 and side discharge port 90. Alternately,
an optional discharge port 95 is provided in chassis 10 to allow
discharge of conditioned air 100 for delivery to an interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 comprising
return air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination
thereof is drawn through heat exchanger return air port 111 by means
of suction provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. An optional
return air port 115 is provided in chassis 10 for return air 105
from an interior space. Air exhaust blower 140 further draws return
air 105 through air filter 30 air exhaust blower 140 and forces
return air 105 through evaporative elements 120 rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 through heat exchanger exhaust air port
151 wherein heat exchanger exhaust air 161 exits to exterior space.
In desiccant exhaust section 26 return air 105 comprising return
air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination thereof
is drawn through return air port 112 and filter 30 and heated by
Desuper heater 209 through condenser coil 211 through solar or hot
water coil 212 by means of suction provided by forced air exhaust
blower 140 which further forces return air 105 through desiccant
wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust air 162 exits system through desiccant
exhaust port 152.
Required electrical disconnect 170 and control section 180 comprising
required control circuitry, sensors, plumbing and wiring necessary
for proper system operation, desiccant wheel rotary motive power
and mechanical apparatus 190 as well as heat exchanger rotary motive
power and mechanical apparatus 200 are also provided, but not shown.
In the heating mode, the optional evaporative elements 120 desiccant
wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust section 2b are disabled. System
input air 5 enters the outside air intake 20 and passes through
air filter 30. Forced air intake blower 40 draws filtered system
input air 5 from air filter 30 pressurizes it and forces the filtered
system input air 5 through the balance of the supply section 1.
The filtered heated system input air 5 is further heated as it passes
through heating coil 70 wherein enclosed burner 210 provides heat
to heating coil 70. Desiccant wheel 50 is disabled, and does not
substantially alter the temperature, moisture content or enthalpy
of system input air 5 passing therethrough. Axially and rotatably
mounted and motor driven rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 is substantially equally divided into a supply sector 61 and
an exhaust sector 62. The filtered system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 and heat contained in the structure of the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 is transferred to and increases the temperature
of the filtered system input air 5. Conditioned air 100 exits side
discharge port 90 disposed to conventional HVAC ductwork provides
the pathway for heated, conditioned air 100 to enter interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 is drawn through
heat exchanger return air port 111 and filter 30 by means of suction
provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. Air exhaust blower 140
further forces return air 105 through disabled optional evaporative
elements 120 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein
return air 105 passes through the exhaust sector 62 of the rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 transferring heat to the structure
of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 forcing heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 through heat exchanger exhaust air port
151 to exterior space.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a fifth embodiment of an improved
air conditioning system incorporating the present invention, wherein
system components are affixed to chassis 10. The system and apparatus
is substantially divided into a supply section 1 which conditions
system input air 5 and an exhaust section 2 which is further subdivided
into a heat exchanger exhaust section 2a and a desiccant exhaust
section 2b. In the cooling cycle, wherein component function has
been described in FIG. 2 system input air 5 comprising unconditioned
outside air, return air, or any combination thereof, is drawn through
outside air intake 20 and air filter 30 by means of suction provided
by forced air intake blower 40. An optional return/mixing air port
25 is provided in chassis 10. Forced air intake blower 40 further
forces system input air 5 through desiccant wheel 50 rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 evaporator elements 120 optional humidifier
80 and side discharge port 90. Alternately, an optional discharge
of conditioned air 100 for delivery to an interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 comprising
return air from an interior space, outside air, or any combination
thereof is drawn through heat exchanger return air port 111 by means
of suction provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. An optional
return air port 115 is provided in chassis 10 for return air 105
from an interior space. Air exhaust blower 140 further draws return
air 105 through air filter 30 air exhaust blower 140 and forces
return air 105 through optional evaporative elements 120 rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 through heat exchanger exhaust
air port 151 wherein heat exchanger exhaust air 161 enters recirculation
duct 230 and flows into desiccant exhaust section 2b where at natural
gas/or oil burner 220 further heats exhaust air 161 as it flows
into desiccant exhaust section 2b. Heat exchanger exhaust air 161
is further forced through desiccant exhaust return air port 112
desiccant wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust air 162 exits system through
desiccant exhaust port 152.
Required electrical disconnect 170 and control section 180 comprising
required control circuitry, sensors, plumbing and wiring necessary
for proper system operation, desiccant wheel rotary motive power
and mechanical apparatus 190 as well as heat exchanger rotary motive
power and mechanical apparatus 200 are also provided, but not shown.
In the operation of heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air
105 is drawn into heat exchanger return air port 111 through air
filter 30 by action of exhaust air blower 140 further forcing
return air 105 through optional evaporative elements 120 wherein
return air 5 is evaporatively cooled, through rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein cooled return air 105 removes heat
and lowers the temperature of the structure of rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel exhaust sector 62 of rotary regenerative heat
exchanger wheel 60 as previously described under FIG. 2 and heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 is discharged to an exterior space through
heat exchanger exhaust air port 151.
In the operation of desiccant exhaust section 2b, system input
air 5 is heated by enclosed burner 210 drawn into desiccant exhaust
intake 112 through air filter 30 by action of exhaust air blower
140 further forcing heated system input air 5 through the exhaust
sector 52 of desiccant wheel 50 heating and drying, thereby regenerating
the desiccant and desiccant exhaust air 162 is discharged to an
exterior space through heat exchanger exhaust air port 152.
In the heating mode, the optional evaporative elements 120 desiccant
wheel 50 and desiccant exhaust section 2b are disabled. System
input air 5 enters the outside air intake 20234 and passes through
air filter 30. Forced air intake blower 40 draws filtered system
input air 5 from air filter 30 pressurizes it and forces the filtered
system input air 5 through the balance of the supply section 1.
The filtered heated system input air 5 is further heated as it passes
through heating coil 70 wherein enclosed burner 210 provides heat
to heating coil 70. Desiccant wheel 50 is disabled, and does not
substantially alter the temperature, moisture content or enthalpy
of system input air 5 passing therethrough. Axially and rotatably
mounted and motor driven rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 is substantially equally divided into a supply sector 61 and
an exhaust sector 62. The filtered system input air 5 passes through
the supply sector 61 of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel
60 and heat contained in the structure of the rotary regenerative
heat exchanger wheel 60 is transferred to and increases the temperature
of the filtered system input air 5. Conditioned air 100 exits side
discharge port 90 disposed to conventional HVAC ductwork provides
the pathway for heated, conditioned air 100 to enter interior space.
In heat exchanger exhaust section 2a, return air 105 is drawn through
heat exchanger return air port 111 and filter 30 by means of suction
provided by forced air exhaust blower 140. Air exhaust blower 140
further forces return air 105 through disabled optional evaporative
elements 120 rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 wherein
return air 105 passes through the exhaust sector 62 of the rotary
regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 transferring heat to the structure
of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger wheel 60 forcing heat
exchanger exhaust air 161 through heat exchanger exhaust air port
151 to exterior space.
Further provided is an improved air conditioning system for admitting
air from a space, adjusting the temperature and humidity of the
air, delivering the adjusted air to an interior space of a structure,
and removal of exhaust air therefrom and return of the exhaust air
to the space, comprising, a first path for conditioning air including
a first air intake means for admitting air to be conditioned. An
air supply first blower means communicates with said first air intake
means for receiving, pressurizing and moving the air from said first
air intake means. A desiccant means is rotatable through a first
zone and second zone. The first zone communicates with said air
supply first blower means and receiving the pressurized exterior
air from said exterior air supply first blower means for reducing
the humidity by means of reducing the water vapor content of the
air passing therethrough. A heat exchanger means has a first area
for accepting heat and a second area for rejecting heat, wherein
said first area of said heat exchanger means communicates with said
desiccant means for receiving the air with reduced water vapor content
from said desiccant means for downwardly adjusting the temperature
of air displaced therethrough. A heating means communicates with
said heat exchanger means for receiving the cooled reduced water
vapor content air from said heat exchanger means for optionally
upwardly adjusting the temperature of air displaced therethrough.
A conditioned first air exit means communicates with said heating
means for receiving the temperature and humidity adjusted air from
said heating means and communicating with the interior space of
a structure for delivery thereto.
A second path independent of the first path for indirect evaporative
cooling of air includes a second air intake means for accepting
air from a space with said second area of said heat exchanger thereadjacent
wherein the accepted air passes over said second area and removes
heat from said second area of said heat exchanger means. A second
air blower means communicates with said second area for receiving
and moving air from said second area of said heat exchanger means.
A second air exit means communicates with said second air blower
means for receiving second air from said second air blower means
and communicating with the exterior of the structure for delivery
of the second air thereto.
A third path, independent of the first path and second path for
regeneration of desiccant air includes a third air intake means.
A heater is associated therewith and the second zone of said desiccant
means wherein said desiccant means communicates with said regenerated
third air intake means for regeneration of said desiccant means
by transfer of water vapor and subsequent removal. A third regeneration
air exit means communicates with said second zone of said desiccant
means for receiving regeneration air from said second zone of said
desiccant means for delivery of the regeneration air thereto.
Shown in FIG. 8 is a sixth embodiment of the invention. In such
embodiment, a three path system is employed. Such system is for
admitting air from a space, adjusting the temperature and humidity
of the air, and delivering the adjusted air to an interior space
of the structure. The system has a first path P-1 for conditioning
air. Such path includes a first air intake 5 for admitting air to
be conditioned. An air supply first blower 40 is in communication
with the first air intake for receiving, pressurizing and moving
the air from the first air intake. A precooling heat exchanger coil
304 is next provided for precooling the air received from the first
air intake. A desiccant wheel 50 is next provided. Such wheel is
rotatable through a first zone 51 and second zone 52. The first
zone is in communication with the air supply first blower. It receives
the precooled air from the exterior air supply first blower for
reducing the humidity by means of reducing the water vapor content
of the air passing therethrough. A recooling heat exchanger coil
306 is next provided for cooling the air with reduced water vapor
content from the desiccant wheel. This is for downwardly adjusting
the temperature of air displaced therethrough to thereby maintain
the absolute humidity of the air at the region 308 after the recooling
coil. The same as the region 65 prior to the recooling coil. A humidifier
coil 80 is next provided to add moisture to the recooled air. Lastly
provided in the first path is a conditioned first air exit 100 communicating
with the humidifier coil for receiving the temperature and humidity
adjusted air from the humidifier coil and communicating with the
interior space of a structure for delivery thereto.
A second path P-2 independent of the first path, is next provided
for indirect evaporative cooling of air. Such second path includes
a second air intake 105 for accepting air from a space. A second
air blower 140 is in communication with the second area for receiving
and moving air through the second path. A second air exit 161 communicates
with the second air blower for receiving second air from the second
air blower. It is in communication with the exterior of the structure
for delivery of the second air thereto. A package cooling tower
pad 310 is next provided in the second path. Such pad has an output
feed line 316 and pump 314 coupled to the input of both the precooling
coil and the recooling coil. The pad also has an input return line
318 coupled to the output of both the precooling coil and the recooling
coil.
A third path P-3 independent of the first path and second path
is next provided for regeneration of desiccant air. Such third path
includes a third air intake 6 condenser coil 211 hot water coil
212 and blower 140 associated therewith. Also in the third path
is the second zone of the desiccant wheel wherein the desiccant
wheel communicates with the regenerated third air intake for regeneration
of the desiccant wheel by the transfer of water vapor and subsequent
removal. Also at the third path is a third regeneration air exit
162 in communication with the second zone 52 of the desiccant wheel
for receiving regeneration air from the second zone 52 of the desiccant
wheel.
The embodiment of FIG. 9 is also an improved air conditioning system
similar to that of FIG. 8. The first and third feed paths are identical.
The second path, however, is different. The second path P-2 of the
FIG. 9 embodiment is independent of the first path and remote therefrom
for indirect evaporative cooling of air. Such path includes a second
air intake 105 for accepting air from a space. A second air blower
140 is in communication with the second area for receiving and moving
air through the second path. A second air exit 161 is in communication
with the second air blower for receiving saturated second air from
the second air blower. It is in communication with the exterior
of the structure for delivery of the second air thereto. The second
path also has, in association therewith, a split cooling tower 324
with a pad 310. The tower is part of the second path. In association
with the tower is an output feed line 316 and pump 314. Such line
and pump are coupled to the input of both the precooling coil and
the recooling coil. In addition, an input return line 318 is coupled
to the output of both the precooling coil and the recooling coil.
Such line terminates at a water sprinkler 320 configurated and located
to effect the flow of water over the cooling tower pad 310. The
water collects into a cool water storage 322 therebeneath.
In the last two embodiments, the use of precooling and recooling
improves the dehumidification process when compared against the
prior embodiments and the prior art. The improved dehumidification,
in turn, results in an increase of efficiency with more drying of
the air with less energy input.
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