CA2133359C - Auditorium air circulation system - Google Patents
Auditorium air circulation systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2133359C CA2133359C CA002133359A CA2133359A CA2133359C CA 2133359 C CA2133359 C CA 2133359C CA 002133359 A CA002133359 A CA 002133359A CA 2133359 A CA2133359 A CA 2133359A CA 2133359 C CA2133359 C CA 2133359C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- air
- auditorium
- floor
- ventilation system
- per minute
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F7/00—Ventilation
- F24F7/04—Ventilation with ducting systems, e.g. by double walls; with natural circulation
- F24F7/06—Ventilation with ducting systems, e.g. by double walls; with natural circulation with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan positioning of a ventilator in or against a conduit
- F24F7/10—Ventilation with ducting systems, e.g. by double walls; with natural circulation with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan positioning of a ventilator in or against a conduit with air supply, or exhaust, through perforated wall, floor or ceiling
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
- F24F13/24—Means for preventing or suppressing noise
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Duct Arrangements (AREA)
- Ventilation (AREA)
Abstract
An auditorium ventilation system for supplying air in an auditorium having a predetermined number of seats, arranged in groups, auditorium. and having, a main duct, and fan operable to cause a predetermined air flow volume, equal to between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute, per seat, branch ducts connecting to the main duct and a plenum located beneath the floor level of the auditorium, a plurality of floor openings connecting with the plenum, a plurality of air outlet registers located above the floor level of the auditorium, connected to respective floor openings, each register being located beneath a respective seat, and, each of the floor openings being adapted to pass between about 17 and 35 cubic feet of air per minute, at a velocity not exceeding about 500 feet per minute, and each outlet register being adapted to receive air flow from its respective floor opening, and to reduce the velocity thereof, and distribute air beneath the respective seat at a velocity of between about 50 and 100 feet per minute.
Description
; ~13~359 FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to air circulation systems for large spaces, particularly for an auditorium, meeting hall, or the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The ventilation of large spaces, occupied by substantial numbers of people, presents a series of problems. In the first place the volume of air to be circulated is very substantial, and at the same time, typically the floor space will represent an area with a high ceiling and a clear span, which will be used for seating. It is not easy to place air circulating outlets in the floor of such a seating area at appropriate locations. As a result, in many such large spaces, such as auditoriums, air is injected into these space from, for example, the ceiling, and is removed at low level at side wall or floor locations.
This may set up undesirable air flow patterns or may have circulation problems in some cases, and may create drafts.
Particularly in auditoriums, where a large number of persons are sitting in close proximity to each other, such persons will generate heat, and it is clearly desirable as far as possible to continuously circulate air so as to dissipate the heat. Where persons are seated close together and in closely spaced rows, the sheer number of people will of itself tend to provide a substantial blockage for air flow. The result may be that although the air circulating ~ ~133359 system is designed to circulate a volume of air which is theoretically adequate for the space, some persons may experience excessive heat and stale air, and others may experience drafts.
Another critical factor in the design of such air facilities is the maintenance of low noise levels, particularly in an auditorium. Attempts to increase air circulation, simply by increasing the velocity of air flow will tend to produce unacceptable noise levels, and will interfere with the hearing of persons seated in the auditorium, at least, the hearing of those persons seated in proximity to the air outlets.
For all the reasons therefore it is desirable to provide an air circulation system in which a relatively high volume of air flow can be maintained, and in which the air flow can be equalized throughout the auditorium for all persons located there, and which maintains low noise levels, so that the air circulation will not interfere with the hearing of persons in the auditorium.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
With a view to satisfying the foregoing considerations, the invention comprises an auditorium ventilation system for supplying air in an auditorium with seats arranged in groups, the system being operable without noticeable interference with the sound characteristics of the auditorium, and having a main supply duct, and a fan and air ` ~133359 conditioning unit to cause air flow equal to between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute per seat, branch ducts connecting to the main duct and underfloor plenum supplied by the branch ducts, located beneath the floor levels of the auditorium, a plurality of floor openings connecting with the plenum, a plurality of air outlet registers located above the floor level, connected to respective floor openings, each air register being located beneath a respective seat, and, each of the floor openings being adapted to pass between about 17 and 35 cubic feet of air per minute, at a velocity not exceeding about 500 feet per minute, and the outlet registers reducing the velocity to about between 50 and 100 feet per minute.
An amount of air approximately equal to the amount being supplied to the auditorium is removed at the ceiling (walls at high level) by a return fan. Air may be returned to the supply fan, or exhausted from the building.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with more particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure.
For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
` ~133359 IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a schematic side elevation illustration of an auditorium, illustrating the ventilation system of the invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic top plan view of the ventilation system and showing typical air velocities at various locations;
Figure 3 is an enlarged sectional side elevation of a portion of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a front elevational view of a seat as used in the auditorium, showing the underseat ventilation outlet;
Figure 5 is a perspective of the outlet register of Figure 4, and, Figure 6 is a sectional side elevation of a floor step, or ledge and seat ventilation arrangement, for certain parts of the building.
`` - 21333~-9 DESCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMBODIMENT
Referring first of all to Figures 1 and 2 it will be seen that the system as shown for the purposes of illustrating the invention, and without limitation, comprises a typical auditorium building indicated generally as B. The building B for example is a theatre, a lecture hall, or other large enclosed seating space. Typically in such a building persons will be seated on seating indicated generally as S located on the floor Fl of the building. In the particular building B as illustrated there is a balcony or mezzanine, and indeed in many such buildings there may be two or three or more such mezzanines or balconies one above the other, supporting further seats.
Seats S will usually be grouped in blocks or rows, and may be separated by aisles.
Typically building B will have a floor Fl which in many cases slopes upwardly from front to rear of the building and will have a high ceiling C, which is characterized in many cases by a free span, and an absence of any supporting columns.
Consequently, due to the large size and the large number of occupants, and the absence of columns and the like, the positioning of ventilation ducts and outlets can present something of a problem. Ventilation air will tend to rise upwardly and pass over the heads of persons in the building, due, in part, to the heat generated, for example by the persons in the building due to the fact that persons will be located close to each other, creating a barrier to air flow also and by the lighting. In accordance with the invention, there is provided a ventilation supply system comprising a main fan 10, and an air conditioning unit 12, connected to a main duct 14. Duct 14 is connected to receive outside air from intake I in a manner well known in the art and may receive recycled return air as shown in phantom the details of which are not illustrated for the sake of simplicity.
The air conditioning unit 12 may provide and usually will provide either cold air or warm air and humidification or dehumidification, and also filtration, depending upon the time of year and the setting of the controls.
The main duct 14 supplies a plurality of branch ducts 16, which extend in to an enclosed underfloor zone or plenum 18, defined by floor Fl, and sub-floor F2.
The underfloor plenum 18 is located so as to extend beneath the groups or rows of seats S. There will be an appropriate number of branch ducts 16 to service the plenum area as defined by the floor Fl to distribute the air evenly.
The ventilation also incorporates a plurality of return openings (not shown) which will usually be located in the ceilings, and will have a suitable return air fan and ducts which may or may not provide for some recycled 2133~9 building air. Ducts in the ceiling and a return air fan will convey the air from the room. Usually in such large buildings B such return air systems are located up near the ceiling or within the ceiling, since the warm air within the building will rise upwardly. It is desirable to extract the return air from the upper region of the building for this reason.
In order to equalize flow from the main duct 14 to all of the branch ducts 16, the main duct 14 is progressively tapered as at 20 and 22, and terminates at a front transverse duct 24. Duct 24 is located close to the stage, at the front of the auditorium.
In order to further equalize air supply to the various branch ducts 16, internal moveable deflector panels 26 are provided. Panels 26 may be swung, so as to divert air flowing from main duct 18 into branch ducts 16, when the air ventilation system is being set up and adjusted.
Branch ducts 16 have a plurality of outlet nozzles 28, in order to distribute air evenly on either side of the ducts 16, and also at their ends.
Referring now to Figures 4,and 5, the seating S is there illustrated in the form of an individual seat 30, supported on a base 32, which may be some form of frame work or legs such as is well known in the art and is not illustrated in detail for the sake of clarity.
~1333S9 An auditorium seat air outlet register will be seen to comprise a hollow tubular body 34, which in this case is cylindrical, having a lower flange 36 by means of which it may be fastened to the floor Fl. It is open at its lower end as at 38, and closed as at 40 at its upper end.
Body 34 is not necessarily cylindrical and may be a variety of different shapes such as rectangular, elliptical etc.
The hollow body 34 will have a plurality of air outlet openings 42 located around the body, so as to provide an all round air flow pattern around the seat.
Within the register pedestal an air flow guide 44 is provided. Guide 44 is of generally frusto-conical shape, with the tip of the cone being directed downwardly towards the open end 38 of the body 34, and the wider upper end being co-extensive with the perimeter of the closed upper end 40 of the body 34.
The air flow guide 44 tends to smooth out turbulence and vortexes within the body 34, which might otherwise arise, and to distribute the air evenly. For the purpose of communicating between the underfloor plenum 18 and the individual seat register 34, there will be respective air passageways 46 formed in the floor Fl at spaced intervals along each seating row, registering with the register 34 of each respective seat.
` ~ ~133359 Each of the passageways 46 will be seen to be of a predetermined diameter d which is substantially less than the diameter D of the hollow body 34. The cross-section area A body 34 will be at least double the cross-section area a passageway 46.
Passageways 46 could be drilled after pouring floor Fl, but are preferably formed by hollow sleeves which are placed in position prior to pouring. The sleeves are flush with the top and bottom surfaces of floor F1.
Referring now to Figure 2, the operation of the ventilation system in accordance with the invention is illustrated there in terms of a typical auditorium shown schematically and having seats indicated as S. Some such seats S are shown in Figures 1 and 3, and in practice there would of course be many more.
The fan 10 is operable to draw fresh air (with or without some recycled building air ) and pass it through the air conditioner 12 (filtering, heating or cooling, and humidifying, or dehumidifying, as required) and along main duct 14. The volume of air passing through main duct 14 for a given time period will be equal to preferably between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute per seat in the auditorium.
The air is then passed to the branch ducts 16 and via outlets 28 and then to the underfloor plenum 18 which is a hollow area between Floors Fl and F2 and thus to the seating rows.
As explained above the plenum 18 is a hollow area between floors Fl and F2 and extends beneath the rows of seats S, the term "row" being used here without excluding groupings other than in actual rows.
The air flowing in main duct 14 will typically flow at a velocity in the region between about 700 and 800 feet per minute. Values below this however may be used, where it is possible to increase the size of the duct work. Velocities higher than this are undesirable, since they tend to produce excessive noise. The air velocity in the branch ducts 16 is about 350 - 500 feet per minute. Within the plenum 18 such air flow will maintain a slight positive pressure.
From the plenum 18, the air passes through the air passageways 46 formed in the floor F. The velocity here will be about 500 feet per minute, or less. The volume of air flow through each passageway 46 will be between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute.
The air then flows upwardly into the individual seat registers 34. The passageways 46 have a diameter d, and as giving a cross-sectional area of passageway 46 which is about ~ that of body 34.
As a result, air passing through the passageway 46 then reduces in velocity, and flows out through the openings 42 at an exit velocity in the region of 70 to 100 feet per minute.
It will thus be seen that by the operation of the invention adequate air flow is supplied for each person seated in a seat S in the building, and at the same time the noise level resulting from the distribution of air is reduced to a minimum, so as to avoid interference with the sound characteristics of the building.
It will be appreciated that these numbers and calculations are based typically for the purposes of calculation only on the number of seats for the audience in the building.
Typically the stage in the building will be supplied with separate air handling facilities (not shown), so that it is not involved in the equation.
In the typical auditorium there will also be staff and attendants, but the numbers are relatively small in relation to the total audience and they are included in the above calculation.
In cases where the audience is at its maximum number and the attendants stand or sit on stools, the attendants will benefit from the overall air circulation provided by this invention and their effect on the total air flow is included in the calculation above.
` 2133359 In some cases there will be a few empty seats left, and in practice the staff and attendants will often be able to sit down in unoccupied seats during the performance.
Consequently, by basing the calculations on the number of seats provided in the auditorium, in most cases, a slight excess of air circulation is provided, over and above the actual requirements of the actual number of persons occupying the seating space of the building at any one time.
Referring now to Figure 6, a somewhat modified form of arrangement of floor and seating is illustrated, which may be used in some cases, in parts of the mezzanines, such as the dress circle, balcony etc, in locations where it may be required.
It will be appreciated that in many auditoriums the floor is not continuously sloping from front to rear. In various places there may be steps or ledges, where a portion of the floor is raised or stepped relative to the floor in front of it.
In this case, an arrangement may be used as shown in Figure 6.
In this case the floor Fl is shown having a ledge or step L. A row of seats S may be located immediately in front of the ledge L. For various reasons it may be difficult to provide openings immediately beneath this row of seats.
In order to overcome this problem, in this case, generally angled openings 50 may connect between the plenum 18, and the space behind each seat. The seats S in this row will be supported typically on standard frame work or legs (not shown).
In these cases air will simply be released from the openings 50 behind the lower region of each seat.
In order to avoid possible drafts a deflector or baffle 52 of angle-shaped section will be secured to the vertical portion of the ledge L, spaced from but registering with the opening 50.
In this case therefore air will flow from behind each seat, rather than from beneath each seat and be diverted sideways by the baffle 52.
In some cases seats can be removed to provide space for audience members in wheel chairs. The registers 34 are removed and caps (not shown~ are put over the passageways 46 and platforms (not shown) are installed to accommodate the wheel chairs. It is possible to incorporate air flow from some of the passageways 46 into the platforms being used for the wheel chairs such that the wheel chair audience members benefit from the floor supply system as well.
The foregoing is a description of a preferred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as limited to any of the specific features as described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come within the scope of the appended claims.
The invention relates to air circulation systems for large spaces, particularly for an auditorium, meeting hall, or the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The ventilation of large spaces, occupied by substantial numbers of people, presents a series of problems. In the first place the volume of air to be circulated is very substantial, and at the same time, typically the floor space will represent an area with a high ceiling and a clear span, which will be used for seating. It is not easy to place air circulating outlets in the floor of such a seating area at appropriate locations. As a result, in many such large spaces, such as auditoriums, air is injected into these space from, for example, the ceiling, and is removed at low level at side wall or floor locations.
This may set up undesirable air flow patterns or may have circulation problems in some cases, and may create drafts.
Particularly in auditoriums, where a large number of persons are sitting in close proximity to each other, such persons will generate heat, and it is clearly desirable as far as possible to continuously circulate air so as to dissipate the heat. Where persons are seated close together and in closely spaced rows, the sheer number of people will of itself tend to provide a substantial blockage for air flow. The result may be that although the air circulating ~ ~133359 system is designed to circulate a volume of air which is theoretically adequate for the space, some persons may experience excessive heat and stale air, and others may experience drafts.
Another critical factor in the design of such air facilities is the maintenance of low noise levels, particularly in an auditorium. Attempts to increase air circulation, simply by increasing the velocity of air flow will tend to produce unacceptable noise levels, and will interfere with the hearing of persons seated in the auditorium, at least, the hearing of those persons seated in proximity to the air outlets.
For all the reasons therefore it is desirable to provide an air circulation system in which a relatively high volume of air flow can be maintained, and in which the air flow can be equalized throughout the auditorium for all persons located there, and which maintains low noise levels, so that the air circulation will not interfere with the hearing of persons in the auditorium.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
With a view to satisfying the foregoing considerations, the invention comprises an auditorium ventilation system for supplying air in an auditorium with seats arranged in groups, the system being operable without noticeable interference with the sound characteristics of the auditorium, and having a main supply duct, and a fan and air ` ~133359 conditioning unit to cause air flow equal to between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute per seat, branch ducts connecting to the main duct and underfloor plenum supplied by the branch ducts, located beneath the floor levels of the auditorium, a plurality of floor openings connecting with the plenum, a plurality of air outlet registers located above the floor level, connected to respective floor openings, each air register being located beneath a respective seat, and, each of the floor openings being adapted to pass between about 17 and 35 cubic feet of air per minute, at a velocity not exceeding about 500 feet per minute, and the outlet registers reducing the velocity to about between 50 and 100 feet per minute.
An amount of air approximately equal to the amount being supplied to the auditorium is removed at the ceiling (walls at high level) by a return fan. Air may be returned to the supply fan, or exhausted from the building.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with more particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure.
For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
` ~133359 IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a schematic side elevation illustration of an auditorium, illustrating the ventilation system of the invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic top plan view of the ventilation system and showing typical air velocities at various locations;
Figure 3 is an enlarged sectional side elevation of a portion of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a front elevational view of a seat as used in the auditorium, showing the underseat ventilation outlet;
Figure 5 is a perspective of the outlet register of Figure 4, and, Figure 6 is a sectional side elevation of a floor step, or ledge and seat ventilation arrangement, for certain parts of the building.
`` - 21333~-9 DESCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMBODIMENT
Referring first of all to Figures 1 and 2 it will be seen that the system as shown for the purposes of illustrating the invention, and without limitation, comprises a typical auditorium building indicated generally as B. The building B for example is a theatre, a lecture hall, or other large enclosed seating space. Typically in such a building persons will be seated on seating indicated generally as S located on the floor Fl of the building. In the particular building B as illustrated there is a balcony or mezzanine, and indeed in many such buildings there may be two or three or more such mezzanines or balconies one above the other, supporting further seats.
Seats S will usually be grouped in blocks or rows, and may be separated by aisles.
Typically building B will have a floor Fl which in many cases slopes upwardly from front to rear of the building and will have a high ceiling C, which is characterized in many cases by a free span, and an absence of any supporting columns.
Consequently, due to the large size and the large number of occupants, and the absence of columns and the like, the positioning of ventilation ducts and outlets can present something of a problem. Ventilation air will tend to rise upwardly and pass over the heads of persons in the building, due, in part, to the heat generated, for example by the persons in the building due to the fact that persons will be located close to each other, creating a barrier to air flow also and by the lighting. In accordance with the invention, there is provided a ventilation supply system comprising a main fan 10, and an air conditioning unit 12, connected to a main duct 14. Duct 14 is connected to receive outside air from intake I in a manner well known in the art and may receive recycled return air as shown in phantom the details of which are not illustrated for the sake of simplicity.
The air conditioning unit 12 may provide and usually will provide either cold air or warm air and humidification or dehumidification, and also filtration, depending upon the time of year and the setting of the controls.
The main duct 14 supplies a plurality of branch ducts 16, which extend in to an enclosed underfloor zone or plenum 18, defined by floor Fl, and sub-floor F2.
The underfloor plenum 18 is located so as to extend beneath the groups or rows of seats S. There will be an appropriate number of branch ducts 16 to service the plenum area as defined by the floor Fl to distribute the air evenly.
The ventilation also incorporates a plurality of return openings (not shown) which will usually be located in the ceilings, and will have a suitable return air fan and ducts which may or may not provide for some recycled 2133~9 building air. Ducts in the ceiling and a return air fan will convey the air from the room. Usually in such large buildings B such return air systems are located up near the ceiling or within the ceiling, since the warm air within the building will rise upwardly. It is desirable to extract the return air from the upper region of the building for this reason.
In order to equalize flow from the main duct 14 to all of the branch ducts 16, the main duct 14 is progressively tapered as at 20 and 22, and terminates at a front transverse duct 24. Duct 24 is located close to the stage, at the front of the auditorium.
In order to further equalize air supply to the various branch ducts 16, internal moveable deflector panels 26 are provided. Panels 26 may be swung, so as to divert air flowing from main duct 18 into branch ducts 16, when the air ventilation system is being set up and adjusted.
Branch ducts 16 have a plurality of outlet nozzles 28, in order to distribute air evenly on either side of the ducts 16, and also at their ends.
Referring now to Figures 4,and 5, the seating S is there illustrated in the form of an individual seat 30, supported on a base 32, which may be some form of frame work or legs such as is well known in the art and is not illustrated in detail for the sake of clarity.
~1333S9 An auditorium seat air outlet register will be seen to comprise a hollow tubular body 34, which in this case is cylindrical, having a lower flange 36 by means of which it may be fastened to the floor Fl. It is open at its lower end as at 38, and closed as at 40 at its upper end.
Body 34 is not necessarily cylindrical and may be a variety of different shapes such as rectangular, elliptical etc.
The hollow body 34 will have a plurality of air outlet openings 42 located around the body, so as to provide an all round air flow pattern around the seat.
Within the register pedestal an air flow guide 44 is provided. Guide 44 is of generally frusto-conical shape, with the tip of the cone being directed downwardly towards the open end 38 of the body 34, and the wider upper end being co-extensive with the perimeter of the closed upper end 40 of the body 34.
The air flow guide 44 tends to smooth out turbulence and vortexes within the body 34, which might otherwise arise, and to distribute the air evenly. For the purpose of communicating between the underfloor plenum 18 and the individual seat register 34, there will be respective air passageways 46 formed in the floor Fl at spaced intervals along each seating row, registering with the register 34 of each respective seat.
` ~ ~133359 Each of the passageways 46 will be seen to be of a predetermined diameter d which is substantially less than the diameter D of the hollow body 34. The cross-section area A body 34 will be at least double the cross-section area a passageway 46.
Passageways 46 could be drilled after pouring floor Fl, but are preferably formed by hollow sleeves which are placed in position prior to pouring. The sleeves are flush with the top and bottom surfaces of floor F1.
Referring now to Figure 2, the operation of the ventilation system in accordance with the invention is illustrated there in terms of a typical auditorium shown schematically and having seats indicated as S. Some such seats S are shown in Figures 1 and 3, and in practice there would of course be many more.
The fan 10 is operable to draw fresh air (with or without some recycled building air ) and pass it through the air conditioner 12 (filtering, heating or cooling, and humidifying, or dehumidifying, as required) and along main duct 14. The volume of air passing through main duct 14 for a given time period will be equal to preferably between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute per seat in the auditorium.
The air is then passed to the branch ducts 16 and via outlets 28 and then to the underfloor plenum 18 which is a hollow area between Floors Fl and F2 and thus to the seating rows.
As explained above the plenum 18 is a hollow area between floors Fl and F2 and extends beneath the rows of seats S, the term "row" being used here without excluding groupings other than in actual rows.
The air flowing in main duct 14 will typically flow at a velocity in the region between about 700 and 800 feet per minute. Values below this however may be used, where it is possible to increase the size of the duct work. Velocities higher than this are undesirable, since they tend to produce excessive noise. The air velocity in the branch ducts 16 is about 350 - 500 feet per minute. Within the plenum 18 such air flow will maintain a slight positive pressure.
From the plenum 18, the air passes through the air passageways 46 formed in the floor F. The velocity here will be about 500 feet per minute, or less. The volume of air flow through each passageway 46 will be between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute.
The air then flows upwardly into the individual seat registers 34. The passageways 46 have a diameter d, and as giving a cross-sectional area of passageway 46 which is about ~ that of body 34.
As a result, air passing through the passageway 46 then reduces in velocity, and flows out through the openings 42 at an exit velocity in the region of 70 to 100 feet per minute.
It will thus be seen that by the operation of the invention adequate air flow is supplied for each person seated in a seat S in the building, and at the same time the noise level resulting from the distribution of air is reduced to a minimum, so as to avoid interference with the sound characteristics of the building.
It will be appreciated that these numbers and calculations are based typically for the purposes of calculation only on the number of seats for the audience in the building.
Typically the stage in the building will be supplied with separate air handling facilities (not shown), so that it is not involved in the equation.
In the typical auditorium there will also be staff and attendants, but the numbers are relatively small in relation to the total audience and they are included in the above calculation.
In cases where the audience is at its maximum number and the attendants stand or sit on stools, the attendants will benefit from the overall air circulation provided by this invention and their effect on the total air flow is included in the calculation above.
` 2133359 In some cases there will be a few empty seats left, and in practice the staff and attendants will often be able to sit down in unoccupied seats during the performance.
Consequently, by basing the calculations on the number of seats provided in the auditorium, in most cases, a slight excess of air circulation is provided, over and above the actual requirements of the actual number of persons occupying the seating space of the building at any one time.
Referring now to Figure 6, a somewhat modified form of arrangement of floor and seating is illustrated, which may be used in some cases, in parts of the mezzanines, such as the dress circle, balcony etc, in locations where it may be required.
It will be appreciated that in many auditoriums the floor is not continuously sloping from front to rear. In various places there may be steps or ledges, where a portion of the floor is raised or stepped relative to the floor in front of it.
In this case, an arrangement may be used as shown in Figure 6.
In this case the floor Fl is shown having a ledge or step L. A row of seats S may be located immediately in front of the ledge L. For various reasons it may be difficult to provide openings immediately beneath this row of seats.
In order to overcome this problem, in this case, generally angled openings 50 may connect between the plenum 18, and the space behind each seat. The seats S in this row will be supported typically on standard frame work or legs (not shown).
In these cases air will simply be released from the openings 50 behind the lower region of each seat.
In order to avoid possible drafts a deflector or baffle 52 of angle-shaped section will be secured to the vertical portion of the ledge L, spaced from but registering with the opening 50.
In this case therefore air will flow from behind each seat, rather than from beneath each seat and be diverted sideways by the baffle 52.
In some cases seats can be removed to provide space for audience members in wheel chairs. The registers 34 are removed and caps (not shown~ are put over the passageways 46 and platforms (not shown) are installed to accommodate the wheel chairs. It is possible to incorporate air flow from some of the passageways 46 into the platforms being used for the wheel chairs such that the wheel chair audience members benefit from the floor supply system as well.
The foregoing is a description of a preferred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as limited to any of the specific features as described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (11)
1. An auditorium ventilation system for supplying air in an auditorium having a predetermined number of seats, said seats being arranged in groups, for seating persons in said auditorium, said ventilation system being operable without noticeable interference with the sound characteristics of said auditorium, and for supplying substantially equal volumes of air to all said persons seated therein, and comprising;
main supply duct means, and power air flow means operable to cause a predetermined air flow volume in said main supply duct means, equal to between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute, per seat;
branch duct means connecting to said main duct means underfloor plenum supplied by said branch duct means said plenum means being located beneath the floor level of said auditorium;
a plurality of floor openings connecting with said plenum means;
a plurality of air outlet register means located above said floor level of said auditorium, connected to respective floor openings, each said air register means being located beneath a respective said seat, and, each of said floor openings being adapted to pass between about 17 and 35 cubic feet of air per minute from said plenum means, at a velocity not exceeding about 500 feet per minute, and said outlet register means each being adapted to receive said predetermined volume of air flow from its respective said floor opening, and to reduce the velocity thereof, and distributing air beneath said seat at a velocity of between about 50 and 100 feet per minute whereby to minimize generation of noise at said air outlet register means.
main supply duct means, and power air flow means operable to cause a predetermined air flow volume in said main supply duct means, equal to between about 17 and 35 cubic feet per minute, per seat;
branch duct means connecting to said main duct means underfloor plenum supplied by said branch duct means said plenum means being located beneath the floor level of said auditorium;
a plurality of floor openings connecting with said plenum means;
a plurality of air outlet register means located above said floor level of said auditorium, connected to respective floor openings, each said air register means being located beneath a respective said seat, and, each of said floor openings being adapted to pass between about 17 and 35 cubic feet of air per minute from said plenum means, at a velocity not exceeding about 500 feet per minute, and said outlet register means each being adapted to receive said predetermined volume of air flow from its respective said floor opening, and to reduce the velocity thereof, and distributing air beneath said seat at a velocity of between about 50 and 100 feet per minute whereby to minimize generation of noise at said air outlet register means.
2. An auditorium ventilating system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said air outlet register means each comprise a generally hollow register body, having a closed top and an open bottom, and outlet opening means in said hollow body, to release air therearound.
3. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 2 and including air guide means located in said hollow body, said air guide means comprising a generally conical body having a narrower end extending downwardly and a wide end located at the upper end of said hollow body.
4. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 3 and including fastening flange means located around said open end of said hollow body for securing same in position.
5. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 4 wherein said floor opening has a cross-sectional area a and wherein said hollow body defines an interior cross-section area A, and wherein A is equal to at least two a.
6. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 5, wherein said hollow body is of cylindrical shape and cross-section, and wherein said wider end of said conical air guide substantially fills the top end of said cylindrical hollow body.
7. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 2, and wherein said floor defines angled ledge means, and wherein at least one row of seats is located along said angled ledge means, and including air opening means in said angled ledge means, registering with the backs of respective said seats, and air flow baffles secured to said ledge means registering with said openings, whereby to deflect air flow exiting from said opening means.
8. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said air flowing in said main duct means flows at a velocity of between about 700 and 800 feet per minute, and wherein said air flowing and said branch ducts flows at a velocity of between about 350, and 500 feet per minute, and wherein said air in said plenum maintains a slight positive pressure.
9. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 1 and wherein said underfloor plenum means comprise an upper floor, upon which said seats are supported, and an underfloor beneath said upper floor, and between them enclosing said underfloor plenum means, and said main duct means and said branch duct means being located within said underfloor plenum means, and including air outlet nozzles at spaced intervals along said branch duct means, whereby procure distribution of air throughout said underfloor plenum means.
10. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 9 and including air deflector panels mounted in said main duct means, adjacent connections to said branch duct means, said panel means being moveable, whereby to adjust air flow from said main duct means to said branch duct means.
11. An auditorium ventilation system as claimed in Claim 10, and wherein said main duct means defines a plurality of tapered sections, whereby to reduce its cross-section, at spaced intervals.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002133359A CA2133359C (en) | 1994-09-30 | 1994-09-30 | Auditorium air circulation system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002133359A CA2133359C (en) | 1994-09-30 | 1994-09-30 | Auditorium air circulation system |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2133359A1 CA2133359A1 (en) | 1996-03-31 |
| CA2133359C true CA2133359C (en) | 1999-01-12 |
Family
ID=4154435
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002133359A Expired - Fee Related CA2133359C (en) | 1994-09-30 | 1994-09-30 | Auditorium air circulation system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2133359C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN101498490B (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2011-05-11 | 中建国际（深圳）设计顾问有限公司 | Air supply system under seat |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104315687B (en) * | 2014-10-08 | 2017-03-29 | 上海建工四建集团有限公司 | A kind of grandstand air-conditioning ground air-supply structure and construction method |
-
1994
- 1994-09-30 CA CA002133359A patent/CA2133359C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN101498490B (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2011-05-11 | 中建国际（深圳）设计顾问有限公司 | Air supply system under seat |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2133359A1 (en) | 1996-03-31 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |