EP3394696A1 - Système, procédé et appareil d'équilibrage de système cvc - Google Patents

Système, procédé et appareil d'équilibrage de système cvc

Info

Publication number
EP3394696A1
EP3394696A1 EP15825719.6A EP15825719A EP3394696A1 EP 3394696 A1 EP3394696 A1 EP 3394696A1 EP 15825719 A EP15825719 A EP 15825719A EP 3394696 A1 EP3394696 A1 EP 3394696A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
terminal
flow
terminals
processing portion
air flow
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP15825719.6A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP3394696B1 (fr
Inventor
Robert Austin Moss
Alejandro Ignacio Baez GUADA
Justin Foster
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Dwyer Instruments LLC
Original Assignee
Dwyer Instruments LLC
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Dwyer Instruments LLC filed Critical Dwyer Instruments LLC
Publication of EP3394696A1 publication Critical patent/EP3394696A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3394696B1 publication Critical patent/EP3394696B1/fr
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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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
    • F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
    • F24F11/70—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
    • F24F11/72—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure
    • F24F11/74—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity

Definitions

  • the present disclosure is directed generally to air flow sensing. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a system, method, and apparatus for balancing diffuser terminals in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial buildings or similar structures.
  • HVAC heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
  • HVAC designers carefully size the HVAC units to ensure delivery of the appropriate volume of conditioned air. Additionally, they design the ductwork to distribute the conditioned air to the various rooms and other areas of the structure at adequate volumetric rates. Furthermore, the designers select the spacing and configuration of the diffuser or register terminals through which air flow is discharged (hereafter referred to generally as "terminals") to distribute and disperse the conditioned air into the rooms/areas in a predetermined manner so as to provide the desired level of comfort for the occupants.
  • Balancing a commercial HVAC system is not a trivial matter and requires the services of a qualified HVAC technician.
  • Commercial HVAC duct runs can be complicated and can have many trunks, branches, or zones, each of which has many terminals, or nodes. Not only does each terminal have its own damper for adjusting flow through that particular node, there are also dampers within the ductwork that can be used to control air flow to the various trunks, branches, and zones within the system.
  • Ceiling mounted terminals of commercial HVAC systems are selected by the system designer from a finite number of configurations to diffuse and direct conditioned air into the building space in a predetermined pattern. While there are many different terminal configurations from which to choose, a vast majority of the terminal designs fall within or are based around a standard 24-inch by 24-inch footprint common to commercial drop ceiling tiles.
  • NEBB National Environmental Balancing Board
  • NEBB National Environmental Balancing Board
  • NEBB National Environmental Balancing Board
  • NEBB also provides equipment specifications and procedural standards.
  • On the equipment side one piece of equipment for which NEBB issues specifications is referred to a direct reading hood, which is used to measure air flow through a ceiling mounted terminal.
  • air flow hood is used to describe a most commonly used form of a direct reading hood device.
  • direct reading hood and "air flow hood,” as used in this description, are essentially interchangeable, i.e., the air flow hood described herein can be characterized as a direct reading hood within the NEBB specification.
  • Air flow hoods are instruments that are used by HVAC technicians to measure the air flow discharged through ceiling mounted terminals of commercial HVAC systems. Air flow hoods are designed to be held in place over the terminal. The hood acts as a duct that collects and redirects the air that is discharged from the terminal. The air flow hood has the configuration of a converging- diverging nozzle with a throat through which the conditioned air is directed in order to measure its volumetric flow rate. Velocity pressure is measured via instrumentation, such as an averaging pitot tube manometer located in the throat, used to calculate flow in a known manner.
  • proportional balancing uses these measured flows to balance the system by a method referred to in the art as proportional balancing.
  • the basic principle of proportional balancing is that once set, the quantity of airflow from each terminal in a system will always remain in the same ratio or proportion to the other terminals in the system. Although the total quantity of the system changes, terminals will stay in the same percentage-of-flow relationship to each other.
  • proportional balancing relies on the experience of the technician to estimate terminal adjustments that will result in proportional balance.
  • the idea is to set the second terminal so that the percentage of design flow for that terminal and the key terminal are in the correct proportions. Once their percentages are in the correct proportions, they remain in the correct proportions. Although the airflow through these proportionally balanced terminals can and will fluctuate as other terminals are balanced, their percentage proportions will remain the same.
  • the second terminal is initially set based upon the knowledge and experience of the technician. In other words, it is an educated guess on the part of the technician. Flows at the second terminal and key terminal are re-measured to determine whether their percentage of design flows are within a predetermined tolerance. Once they are within this tolerance, the technician moves to the next terminal.
  • the process is repeated for each terminal in the system.
  • the technician uses his knowledge to estimate the adjustment to each terminal so that it will result in its percentage of design flow being equal to the key and the other previously balanced terminals. Due to the reliance on the technician's estimation skills, adjusting, re-measuring, and repeating are frequent and common. Additionally, as the technician performs these balancing tasks, he also uses his knowledge and experience to estimate adjustments so that adjusting the final terminal will bring the percentage of design flow for that terminal and all others to not only be equal, but also as close to 100% as possible. Once accomplished, the technician adjusts fan speed, if necessary, to achieve 100% design flow for the terminals.
  • a method for balancing terminals of an HVAC system using an air flow measuring device includes inputting into a computer processing portion of the air flow measuring device predetermined target flows for each terminal. The method also includes acquiring via the air flow measuring device initially measured air flows through each of the terminals, the initially measured air flows being provided to the computer processing portion. The method further includes adjusting the terminals in the HVAC system to flow set points according to instructions from the computer processing portion, the computer processing portion being programmed to calculate the flow set point for each terminal given current HVAC system load conditions, that will result in all terminals being set to target flow after all terminals have been adjusted as instructed.
  • adjusting the terminals can include positioning the air flow measuring at a terminal under adjustment as instructed by the computer processing portion.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to identify the order in which the terminals of the HVAC system are adjusted.
  • the method can also include obtaining the flow set point for the terminal under adjustment from the computer processing portion and adjusting the terminal under adjustment to the flow set point.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to determine the current HVAC system load conditions used to determine the flow set point for a terminal under adjustment as a function of the initially measured air flows and the predetermined target flows for the terminals.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to determine the current HVAC system load conditions used to determine the flow set point for the terminal under adjustment further as a function of air flows resulting from adjustments to other terminals of the HVAC system.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate the air flows resulting from adjustments to other terminals of the HVAC system.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate the air flows resulting from adjustments to other terminals of the HVAC system as a function of a resulting air flow measured at a terminal other than the terminal under adjustment.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to instruct the user to use the air flow measuring device to acquire a measured air flow through a different terminal.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to calculate a predicted flow through the different terminal and compare the measured flow through the different terminal to the predicted flow through the different terminal to determine an error.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to recalculate the flow set point for the terminal under adjustment and instruct the user to re-adjust the terminal under adjustment to the recalculated flow set point.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate a revised total flow as a function of a total flow determined prior to setting the terminal under adjustment and the error.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate flow ratios for each terminal as a function of the predicted flow for each terminal and the total flow determined prior to setting the terminal under adjustment.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to calculate revised predicted flows through each terminal as a function of the flow ratios and the revised total flow, and determine a recalculated flow set point as a function of the revised total flow and the revised predicted flows.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to instruct the user to move the air flow measuring device to the next terminal in the identified order.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate a predicted air flow through the next terminal; measure the air flow through the next terminal; compare the predicted air flow through the next terminal to the measured air flow through the next terminal to determine an error; calculate a flow set point for the next terminal as a function of the error; and instruct the user to adjust the next terminal to the recalculated flow set point.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate a revised total flow as a function of a total flow determined prior to setting the terminal under adjustment and the error.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate flow ratios for each terminal as a function of the predicted flow for each terminal and the total flow determined prior to setting the terminal under adjustment.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate revised predicted flows through each terminal as a function of the flow ratios and the revised total flow.
  • the computer processing portion can further be programmed to determine a recalculated flow set point as a function of the revised total flow and the revised predicted flows.
  • adjusting the terminal to the flow set point can include adjusting flow through the terminal while using the air flow measuring device to monitor the flow through the terminal to determine when the flow set point has been reached.
  • the instructions can include instructing the user to place all dampers to all terminals in the HVAC system to a fully open condition prior to measuring any initial flows.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to identify a key terminal in the HVAC system.
  • the instructions can include instructing the user to leave the key terminal fully opened throughout the balancing process.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to determine a terminal error for each terminal in the HVAC system as a function of the ratio of a target flow and the initially measured flow for each respective terminal, and identify the terminal with the lowest terminal error as the key terminal.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to identify the terminals to adjust in ascending order of magnitude of the terminal error.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to solve for set points Q is and Q Ns calculations as:
  • Q b and Q t are the initial flows for terminals i + 1 ⁇ b ⁇ N, and 1;
  • Qj , Qj , Qj c and Qj are the target flows for terminals 1, 1 ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ — 1, 1 ⁇ c ⁇ N— 1, and i, respectively.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to solve for the predicted flow Q Pli Q Px , Q Pz and Q P N in terminals 1, 2 ⁇ x ⁇ i— 1, i + l ⁇ z ⁇ N— 1 and N as a result of setting terminal i according to:
  • an apparatus for measuring air flow in an HVAC system can include structure configured to be placed in the air flow path of a terminal of the HVAC system.
  • the structure can be further adapted to direct air flow from the terminal through the structure.
  • the apparatus can also include instrumentation supported by the structure and having portions positioned in the air flow path.
  • the instrumentation can be configured to generate signals related to the air flow through the structure.
  • the apparatus can further include electronics operatively connected to the instrumentation and adapted to receive the signals related to air flow and transform those signals to computer readable data.
  • the electronics can include a computer processing portion programmed to use the computer readable data to determine measured air flows through the structure.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to calculate for a terminal under adjustment a flow set point, the flow set point being the air flow through the terminal under adjustment that, under current system conditions, will result in balanced system flow when all other terminals in the system are in balance.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate the flow set point as a function of measured air flows and predetermined target air flows for all of the terminals in the HVAC system.
  • the electronics can include a user interface for receiving user input data and for displaying system data.
  • the user interface can be operatively connected to the computer processing portion so as to receive the user input data from the user interface and to send data to the user interface for display.
  • the electronics can be configured so that the user can input data regarding the system to the computer processing portion via the user interface, and the computer processing portion can provide instructions to the user via the user interface.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to calculate a predicted flow through each terminal as a function of the measured flow through each terminal.
  • the computer processing portion can be further programmed to determine whether a difference between the predicted flow for a terminal different than the terminal under adjustment and a secondary measured flow through that different terminal exceeds a predetermined threshold. In response to the difference exceeding the predetermined threshold, the computer processing portion can be programmed to determine a recalculated flow set point for the terminal under adjustment.
  • an apparatus for measuring air flow in an HVAC system can include an air flow hood configured to measure air flow from a terminal of the HVAC system, and electronics configured to communicate with the air flow hood to receive air flow measurements, the electronics comprising a computer processing portion operatively connected to a user interface portion.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to query a user for data, provide instructions to the user, and receive data from by the user via the user interface.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to query the user for, and receive from the user, data relating to the HVAC system.
  • the information can include the number of terminals in the HVAC system and predetermined desired air flow rates for each terminal.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to instruct the user to obtain via the air flow hood an initial measured air flow for each terminal in the HVAC system, and to instruct the user to adjust the air flow rates of the terminals in the HVAC system to set points calculated to balance the HVAC system.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to instruct user to adjust the terminal under adjustment to the calculated set point and use the air flow hood to measure the air flow through a terminal different than the terminal under adjustment in order to determine the impact that adjusting the terminal under adjustment had on the HVAC system.
  • the computer processing portion can programmed to readjust the terminal under adjustment to a recalculated set point in response to determining that the impact on the HVAC system exceeded a predetermined value.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate the flow set point as a function of measured air flows and predetermined target air flows for all of the terminals in the HVAC system.
  • the computer processing portion can be programmed to calculate a predicted flow for each terminal and determine for the different terminal an error between the predicted flow and the secondary measured flow.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate a revised total flow as a function of the error and a total flow determined from the initially measured air flows.
  • the computer processing portion can also be programmed to calculate flow ratios for each terminal as a function of the predicted flow for each terminal and the total flow determined prior to setting the terminal under adjustment.
  • the computer processing portion can further be programmed to calculate revised predicted flows through each terminal as a function of the flow ratios and the revised total flow, and determine a recalculated flow set point as a function of the revised total flow and the revised predicted flows.
  • FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of an air flow hood that can be implemented in a system for measuring air flow, according to the invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a sectional view of the air flow hood taken generally along line 2-2 in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 is a schematic view illustrating the air flow hood of Figs. 1 and 2 being used to measure air flow through terminals of an HVAC system.
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view of another air flow hood that can be implemented in a system for measuring air flow, according to the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a schematic view illustrating the air flow hood of Fig. 4 being used to measure air flow through terminals of an HVAC system.
  • Figs. 6A-6J illustrate examples of HVAC terminals, the air flow through which the system of Figs. 1-5 can be used to measure.
  • Figs. 7A-7C are schematic diagrams illustrating certain pressure and flow characteristics of an example HVAC system.
  • Figs. 8A-8C are schematic diagrams illustrating processes for balancing the example HVAC system.
  • Fig. 9 is a graph illustrating fan curves for the example HVAC system.
  • Figs. 10A-10B are schematic diagrams illustrating certain pressure and flow characteristics of the example HVAC system.
  • the present invention relates to systems and methods for determining air flow in an HVAC system. More particularly, the invention relates to a method for balancing HVAC systems so that air flow through each terminal in the system discharges conditioned air at the flow rates dictated by design specifications. The method can be implemented on a variety of air flow measuring systems.
  • FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate an example configuration of a system 10 for measuring air flow through a terminal in an HVAC system.
  • the system 10 includes an air flow measuring apparatus 20 in the form of an air flow hood that is used to measure air flow.
  • the air flow hood 20 of Figs. 1 and 2 is a common design that is commonly used to measure air flow through terminals in a building HVAC system that discharge conditioned air into the conditioned space of the building.
  • the most common use of the air flow hood 20 is to aid an HVAC technician in "balancing" the drop -ceiling mounted terminals of the HVAC system so that the conditioned air is distributed in the building in accordance with specifications laid out by the HVAC engineer or architect. Balancing terminals in these systems requires accurate measurements of the air flow through each terminal. The systems and methods of the invention improve the accuracy of these measurements by providing backpressure compensated measurements.
  • the air flow hood 20 includes a collection hood 22 that is configured to capture air discharged through a standard HVAC terminal, which has a 24"x24" footprint.
  • the collection hood 22 has a generally trapezoidal profile with a square cross section, and is dimensioned so that an open end 24 of the collection hood fits over the standard 24"x24" terminal in a manner sufficient to collect all or substantially all of the air discharged from the terminal.
  • the collection hood 22 tapers down from the open end 24 to an instrument end 16 where the collection hood meets and is connected with an instrumentation housing 30.
  • the instrumentation housing 30 includes a trapezoidal lower portion that defines an outlet 32 of the air flow hood 20.
  • the air flow hood 20 thus has the general form of a converging-diverging nozzle. Air flow through the hood 20 can therefore be determined on the basis of well-established fluid dynamic principles regarding the relationship between total and static pressure measurements in order to calculate the velocity pressure and flow velocity, and therefore, flow rate.
  • the instrumentation housing 30 includes handles 34 for supporting and maneuvering the air flow hood 20 into position over a terminal.
  • the housing 30 houses instrumentation 36 for measuring the air flow through the air flow hood 20.
  • the housing 30 also houses electronics 38 of the air flow hood 20 that are operatively connected to the instrumentation 36 and that interrogate and receive information from the instrumentation.
  • the electronics 38 include a user interface 40 that can include features, such as input devices, such as knobs, buttons, switches, touch screens, etc., and output devices, such as a visual meter, display screen, LED readout, etc., that are used to operate the air flow hood 20.
  • the computer processing portion 42 that executes the processes described herein can include a programmable processor, such as a computer or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and computer readable memory upon which computer programs and data can be stored for access by the processor.
  • the computer readable memory can include all forms of non volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices), magnetic disks (e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks).
  • the computer processing portion 42 can include or can interface with special purpose circuitry for interfacing the instrumentation 36.
  • the computer processing portion 42 can be integrated with any other portion of the electronics 38, such as the user interface 40, or can stand alone as a separate component that interfaces other electronic components.
  • the electronics 38 can include a wireless communications module, such as a Bluetooth, single mode wireless connectivity module, or wi-fi network device for transmitting wirelessly the measurement data obtained from the instrumentation 36.
  • the user interface 40 and computer processing portion 42 can comprise a smart device, such as a smart phone, tablet, or other suitably equipped electronic device.
  • the smart device can include an HVAC balancing app that executes the balancing processes described herein.
  • the instrumentation 36 includes an array of pitot tubes 50 for measuring velocity pressure within the air flow hood 20.
  • the pitot tubes 50 have apertures presented both toward and away from the air flow direction in the hood 20, which is indicated generally by the arrow labeled A in Fig. 1.
  • the difference between total and static pressures measured via the pitot tubes 50 can be used to calculate the air flow through the hood 20 in a known manner.
  • the air flow hood 20 is illustrative of an apparatus that can be implemented in the system 10 to measure air flow.
  • the systems and methods for system balancing disclosed herein are not by any means limited to this or any other particular configuration.
  • the systems and methods for system balancing that are described herein are applicable to any hood or other device that is capable of measuring air flow through a terminal in an HVAC system.
  • the system 10 can include an apparatus 60 in the form of an air flow hood that is used to measure air flow.
  • the air flow hood illustrated in Fig. 4 can, for example, be similar or identical to that which is described in U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/121,222 filed on February 26, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • the system 10 includes an air flow hood 60 that is used to measure air flow through a terminal in an HVAC system.
  • the air flow hood 60 has a generally boxed configuration that is sized and proportioned to fit over the standard 24"x24" terminal.
  • the air flow hood 60 is divided into quadrants 70 through which the air flow is directed.
  • instrumentation for measuring the air flow through that particular quadrant.
  • the instrumentation can, for example, be in the form of a hot point anemometer or a pitot-static tube array.
  • Total flow through the air flow hood 60 is the calculated sum of the flows through the quadrants 70.
  • the air flow hood 60 is supported on a pole 62 that facilitates a user to maneuver the air flow hood 60 to fit squarely over the terminal so that all or substantially all of the air discharged from the terminal is directed through the hood 60.
  • the pole 62 can include handles 64 for facilitating a comfortable and ergonomic feel while maneuvering and using the air flow hood 60.
  • the pole 60 can have a telescoping construction with a locking ring 66 that facilitates locking the pole at the desired length.
  • the trigger 72 activates instrumentation and electronics of the air flow hood 60 via wireless communications, such as Bluetooth or single mode wireless connectivity.
  • the instrumentation and electronics are at least partially hidden within the air flow hood 60 and therefore indicated generally by the arrow at 75 in Fig. 4.
  • the instrumentation and electronics 75 obtains air flow measurement data that is transmitted wirelessly (again, e.g., via Bluetooth or wi-fi) to a computer processing portion of the air flow hood 60 in the form of a smart device 74, such as a smart phone, tablet, or other suitably equipped electronic device that can be removably mounted to the pole 62.
  • the smart device 74 is equipped with an application (“HVAC app") that is adapted to use the measurement data received from the instrumentation and electronics 75 of the air flow hood 60 to calculate or otherwise determine the volumetric flow rate of the air discharged from the HVAC terminal.
  • HVAC app an application
  • the HVAC app loaded on the smart device 74 which communicates wirelessly with the instrumentation and electronics 75 on the air flow hood 60, the methods described herein can be implemented to calculate or otherwise determine the terminal settings used to balance the HVAC system.
  • an HVAC system 100 includes ductwork 102 that distributes HVAC conditioned air and delivers the conditioned air through terminals 104 into a space or zone 110, such as a room in a building.
  • a space or zone 110 such as a room in a building.
  • each terminal 104 can have an associated damper 112 for adjusting flow by changing the angle of attack of the damper. Additional dampers 114 can be used to control flow within the ductwork 102.
  • the number of terminals 104 associated with any given zone could, of course, be greater or fewer.
  • the air flow hood 20 is positioned over the terminal, and the instrumentation 36 and electronics 38 (see Figs. 1 and 2) are activated via the user interface 40. Once the readings for the terminal 104 are taken, the air flow hood 20 is moved to the next terminal (shown in dashed lines at 20'), where the hood is activated and readings are taken in the same manner. This process is repeated for all of the terminals 104 in the zone 110.
  • an HVAC system 100 includes ductwork 102 that distributes HVAC conditioned air and delivers the conditioned air through terminals 104 into a space or zone 110, such as a room in a building.
  • a space or zone 110 such as a room in a building.
  • Each terminal 104 can have an associated damper 112 for adjusting flow through the damper.
  • Additional dampers 114 can be used to control flow within the ductwork 102.
  • the number of terminals 104 associated with any given zone could, of course, be greater or fewer.
  • the air flow hood 60 is positioned over the terminal and the instrumentation and electronics are activated via the trigger 72, causing readings to be taken and data to be transmitted to the smart device 74 (see Fig. 4), where the HVAC App can use the data to perform calculations.
  • the air flow hood 60 is moved to the next terminal (shown in dashed lines at 60'), where the hood is activated and readings are taken in the same manner. This process is repeated for all of the terminals 104 in the zone 110.
  • FIG. 6A-6J show the basic layout of the terminals and the directions in which air is discharged (indicated generally by arrows). These example terminal configurations are summarized in the following table:
  • Each terminal configuration redirects or otherwise disturbs the air flow through its structure and therefore introduces into the HVAC system a certain amount of air flow resistance or backpressure. Additionally, placing an air flow hood over the terminal also affects air flow through the terminal, as the hood itself can introduce a certain amount of resistance into the HVAC system. From this, it can be appreciated that the amount of resistance introduced by the presence of an air flow hood can vary, depending on the configuration of the terminal over which the hood is positioned. The amount of resistance for different combinations of terminal and air flow hood configurations can vary widely. Since, however, the terminal configuration introduces a constant amount of resistance that cannot be changed, the only variable source of resistance is that introduced by the air flow hood.
  • the air flow measuring system 10 implements a method or algorithm for balancing terminals in an HVAC system.
  • the predictive balancing method can be implemented in the computer processing portion 42 of the electronics 38.
  • the predictive balancing method can be implemented in the HVAC App executed by the smart device 74.
  • each terminal in the HVAC system is set or adjusted sequentially so that the flow through each terminal becomes balanced when flow through the last terminal is adjusted.
  • Setting each terminal brings the system incrementally closer to balance, with full balance being achieved with setting the last terminal.
  • setting or “adjusting" a terminal it is meant that the damper for controlling air flow through the terminal is adjusted while air flow discharged from the terminal is monitored via the air flow hood 20, 60.
  • the predictive balancing method implemented by air flow measuring system 10 uses calculations based on mass flow theory to determine flow set points for each terminal that will result in system balance upon setting the last terminal in the system. Essentially, having measured the flow at each terminal, the method includes determining initial flow error ratios for each terminal and correcting those errors systematically and sequentially, from terminal to terminal, until the system as a whole is brought into balance. Depending on the desired level of precision, the method can take into account the impact that adjusting each terminal will have on the total system flow and correct or compensate the terminal adjustments based on these determined impacts.
  • the predictive balancing method implemented by the system 10 calculates flow set points for each terminal so that the flow rate to which the terminal is adjusted under current system conditions will result in the specified target air flow through that terminal once all others have been similarly adjusted. Knowing the design specified target air flow for each terminal, the flow through each terminal in the current state of the system, and total system flow under the current state, the predictive balancing method calculates adjustments to each terminal based on the impact that the terminal, if adjusted correctly, would have on the current state of the system. Once a terminal is adjusted, the resulting system conditions can be estimated or determined, either mathematically or through one or more subsequent measurements, and those resulting system conditions can be used to calculate the set point for the next terminal in the sequence.
  • the HVAC system is systematically and incrementally brought into balance.
  • the adjustment to each terminal reduces the error for all other terminals and therefore brings all terminals incrementally closer to design specifications.
  • the adjustment to the last damper in the sequence brings all errors close to or equal to zero, and all terminals are adjusted to specification.
  • there can be some tolerance for error here, but those values can be very low, such as less than 10%, 5%, 2%, 1% or even less than 0.5% or lower, depending, for example, on the selected balancing mode.
  • Fig. 7A illustrates a schematic diagram representative of a simple branch of an HVAC system 100 in which fan 102 supplies conditioned air to four terminals 104, identified as Dl-D4,via ductwork 106.
  • the dashed line 108 in Fig. 7A represents the ceiling that helps define the space 110 into which the condition air is discharged from the terminals 104.
  • the methods described herein are valid regardless of the number of branches and/or terminals in the HVAC system.
  • Q1-Q4 represent the flow through their respective terminals D1-D4.
  • P 0 represents the static pressure of the air discharged from the fan 102
  • P ⁇ represents the pressure in the space 110 (e.g., room), into which air is discharged from terminals 104.
  • the k-factor represents the entire load of the flow path to a single terminal 104 of the HVAC system 100.
  • the initial k-factor, k for each of terminals D1-D4 is calculated:
  • the terminals 104 can be considered resistors to flow and are thus illustrated with the electrical symbol for resistors.
  • the "resistance" of the terminals 104 thus varies with factors, such as the diffuser configuration (see Figs. 6A-6J) and the position of the dampers associated with the terminals.
  • Figs. 7B and 7C illustrate the flows Qt and k-factors kt for the system at the initial stage of balancing (Fig. 7B) and at the final stage of balancing (Fig. 7C).
  • Equations 1 and 4 depend only on flow rates, as pressure is canceled out.
  • Equations 1 and 4 depend only on flow rates, as pressure is canceled out.
  • the equations set forth above are implemented by the predictive balancing method of the invention performed by the air flow measurement system 10 to calculate flows and flow set points as the k-factors change as a result of adjusting the dampers at each terminal.
  • Equation 3 Generalizing Equation 3 to solve for the set point Q is and Q Ns for any terminal under adjustment 2 ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ N— 1 in an HVAC system havin N number of terminals, Equation 3 is modified as: and where Q T represents total system flow, k b represent the initial k- factors for terminals i + 1 ⁇ b ⁇ N . kf ⁇ k ⁇ and /e ⁇ . represent the final k-factors for terminals 1 ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ — 1, 1 ⁇ c ⁇ N— 1, and i, respectively.
  • Equations 5 and 6 can be converted such that all the k constants are in terms of flow (Q) only. :
  • Q T represents total system flow
  • Q b and Q t represent the initial flows for terminals i + 1 ⁇ b ⁇ N
  • 1, Qj , Qf a , Qf c and Qf . represent the target flows for terminal 1, 1 ⁇ a ⁇ i— 1, 1 ⁇ c ⁇ N— 1, and i, respectively.
  • Terminal N where Q T represents total system flow and k c ,k z ,k w ,k N and k z represent the initial k-factors for terminals i + 1 ⁇ c ⁇ N, i + l ⁇ z ⁇ N - 1, i + 2 ⁇ z ⁇ N, N, and i + l ⁇ z ⁇ N-l. Additionally, kf,kf x , kf d ,kf., kf v and kf e represent the final k-factor for terminal
  • Equation 9, 10, 11 and 12 can be converted such that all the k constants are in terms of flow (Q) only.
  • Q PII Q PX , Q PZ and Q P N in terminals 1, 2 ⁇ x ⁇ i— 1, i + l ⁇ z ⁇ N— 1 and N as a result of setting terminal i are:
  • Q T represents total system flow
  • Q c , Q W , Q N and Q z represent the initial flows for terminals i + 1 ⁇ c ⁇ N, i + 2 ⁇ w ⁇ N, N, and i + 1 ⁇ z ⁇ N - 1.
  • ⁇ ⁇ , ⁇ 3 ⁇ 4 , Q /d , Q fi , Q fv represent the target flows for terminal 1, 2 ⁇ x ⁇ i— 1, 2 ⁇ d ⁇ i, ⁇ , 1 ⁇ I? ⁇ i, and 1 ⁇ e ⁇ ⁇ — 2, respectively.
  • the precision with which an HVAC is balanced can depend on a variety of factors. In some scenarios, rough balancing to within ⁇ 5 to ⁇ 10% of design flow, for example, may be acceptable where precise comfort level control is not necessary. In other scenarios, the particulars features of the HVAC system being balanced may render unnecessary compensating for the k-factor impacts caused by terminal adjustments. This may be the case where, for example, in HVAC systems where the blower and/or ductwork are oversized, so the terminal adjustments do not substantially affect the load on the system.
  • the predictive balancing process implemented by the air flow measurement system 10 can include multiple processes or modes with varying degrees of precision in terms of the degree to which the process accounts for the k-factor impacts caused by terminal adjustments.
  • the predictive balancing process can include three such processes or modes: an ideal balancing mode, an express balancing mode, and a precision balancing mode.
  • Figs. 8A-8C are high-level flow diagrams that illustrate the process 120 implemented in these different modes.
  • the ideal balancing mode of the predictive balancing process 120 is illustrated in Fig. 8A.
  • the express balancing mode of the predictive balancing process 120 is illustrated in Fig. 8B.
  • the precision balancing mode of the predictive balancing process 120 is illustrated in Fig. 8C.
  • the process includes initial steps that are necessary for the process to function. These initial steps, indicated at 118 in Figs. 8A-8C, can include:
  • the process 120 determines the key terminal based on the initial air flow measurements obtained during the initial steps 118.
  • the "key" terminal is, by definition, the terminal whose initial-to- target flow ratio is the lowest.
  • the key terminal Dl is left full open, including when the process is complete and the HVAC system 100 is balanced. This ensures that the balanced system 100 will run at optimum efficiency.
  • Terminals D2-D4 are set systematically and sequentially in a manner that is determined by which balancing mode (ideal, express, or precision) is selected by the HVAC technician. By “sequentially,” it is meant that the terminals are stepped through and adjusted in a one-by-one manner in an order determined by the process 120.
  • all of the balancing modes include setting or "SET” steps in which the terminal is adjusted or “set.”
  • the steps involved can also include reading or "READ” steps, and resetting or “RESET” steps, which are described in detail below.
  • SET steps involve setting the terminal under adjustment to the flow set point that is calculated by the system 10.
  • the air flow hood 20, 60 is positioned on the terminal and the damper associated with the terminal is adjusted until the flow measured by the hood is equal to the set point.
  • READ steps involve reading, via the air flow hood 20, 60, the flow through another terminal in the system after the adjustment is made at the SET step.
  • the purpose of the READ step is to measure a flow resulting from the previous SET step and compare that measured flow to a previously recorded or calculated flow for that terminal in order to determine the impact that setting the terminal under adjustment had on the load of the HVAC system 100, i.e., the k-factors for the terminals.
  • the terminal under adjustment is reset, i.e., re-adjusted, to a re-calculated flow set point.
  • This recalculated set point can be based on the system impact measured via the READ step or estimated via calculation.
  • the ideal balancing mode of the predictive balancing process 120 for balancing the HVAC system 100 is illustrated in Fig. 8A.
  • the flow set points for each terminal are determined based on the equations set forth above.
  • the ideal mode is meant for situations where circumstances dictate or allow for balancing the terminals quickly with some room for potential losses in precision.
  • the ideal mode is intended for HVAC systems where the k-factors of the branches remain relatively constant as terminals are adjusted due low flow complexity features, such as minimal abrupt bends/transitions in the ductwork, and over-sized fans or blowers that easily overcome any backpressure build-up.
  • the set point for each terminal is determined based only on the initially measured flows and any flows that are set prior to the terminal under adjustment.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform tasks through the user interface 40 or smart device 74 of the air flow hood 20, 60.
  • the predictive balancing process 120 begins with the initial steps 118.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to enter system information, such as the number of terminals in the HVAC system 100 and the target flow rates for each terminal.
  • the system 10 can also prompt the user to enter additional information, such as the type or configuration for each terminal shown in Fig. 6A-6J.
  • the system 10 also instructs the user to ensure that all of the terminals D 1-D4 are adjusted to full open.
  • the system 10 further instructs the user to use the air flow hood 20, 60 to obtain initial flow readings from each of terminals D 1-D4.
  • these initial flow readings can be:
  • the total air flow discharged into the space 110 by the HVAC system 100 can be quantified as follows:
  • target flow rates, Q fi are required for each terminal.
  • the target flows are specified by the HVAC architect/engineer that designed the system.
  • target flows for the system illustrated in Figs. 7A-7C, as entered by the user at initial steps 118 can be 450 cfm for each diffuser 104, that is:
  • the system 10 Based on the information obtained during the initial steps 118 of the process 120, the system 10 identifies the key terminal as the terminal whose initially measured flow is closest to target flow, i.e., the terminal with the lowest flow to target flow ratio. In the present example, terminal Dl has the lowest flow to target ratio at 0.61. Once the key terminal is identified, the system 10 orders the remaining terminals based on their initially measured flow to target flow ratios from high to low. This is not critical, but it does help to maximize the resolution of damper adjustments throughout the balancing process, so it can be considered somewhat important.
  • Terminals D2, D3, and D4 have initial-to-target flow ratios of 1.53, 1.40, and 1.39, respectively. Therefore, terminal D2 is the first terminal that will be adjusted.
  • the ratios for terminals D3 and D4 are essentially the same, so adjusting them in order, i.e., D3 then D4, instead of strictly in order of their ratios can be acceptable.
  • the system 10 will instruct the user to adjust D4 then D3, the system can be configured so that the user can override the predetermined order and adjust in the order he/she desires.
  • each terminal is adjusted to achieve a flow at that terminal for the current state of the system 100 that corresponds to system balance once all other terminals are adjusted.
  • the flow to which each terminal is adjusted is therefore a flow that the system 10, implementing the predictive balancing method 120, predicts will result in that terminal achieving its target flow, Qf ., when all other terminals are adjusted.
  • balancing the final terminal (D4 in the present example) will bring the entire HVAC system 100 into balance.
  • Fig. 8A illustrates a SET pattern that is characteristic of the ideal mode of the predictive balancing process 120.
  • terminal D2 is adjusted at SET step 122 to a set point calculated according to the equations disclosed herein and based on the initially measured flow rates and target flow rates.
  • a flow through terminal D3 resulting from terminal D2 adjustment at the SET step 122 is then estimated/calculated and used to calculate a set point for terminal D3.
  • Terminal D3 is adjusted to that set point at SET step 130.
  • the first terminal to set is that terminal with the lowest target ratio.
  • the air flow through terminal D2 is set at SET step 122.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to adjust terminal D2 until the flow measured through the hood equals the flow set point Q S 2.
  • Terminal D2 is thus set (SET step 122 complete).
  • the flow rates through the other terminals Dl, D3, and D4 should adjust to the predicted flows Q Pl , Q P3 , and Q P4 , respectively.
  • terminal D3 can be adjusted next, and the process 120 proceeds to SET step 130.
  • Equation 7 or 5
  • terminal D3 is set to Q S33 (the "33" indicating the second time that flow through terminal D3 is calculated) at SET step 130, as shown in Fig. 8A:
  • Air flow at the other terminals is predicted based on the effect of closing terminal D3, using Equations 13, 14 and 16 (or 9, 11 and 13):
  • terminal D4 can be adjusted next, and the process 120 proceeds to SET step 136.
  • Equation 8 (or 6), terminal D4 is set to Q S444 (the "444" indicating the third time that flow through terminal D4 is calculated) at SET step 136:
  • Air flow at the other terminals is predicted based on the effect of closing terminal D4, using Equation 13 and 14 (or 9 and 10):
  • the terminals D 1-D4 have been adjusted to proportional balance.
  • proportional balance has all of terminals D 1-D4 at equal flow.
  • the flows through terminals are proportionally balanced, they are higher than the target flow rates of 450 cfm.
  • the process 120 proceeds to step 142, where the fan or blower (see Figs. 7A-7C) of the HVAC system 100 is adjusted while using the air flow hood 20, 60 to monitor air flow through any one of terminals D 1-D4.
  • the monitored terminal reads target flow rate (450 cfm)
  • the other terminals will also discharge air at the target flow rate, and the balancing process 120 is complete.
  • the system 10 implements the ideal mode of the predictive balancing process 120 via an air flow measuring device 20, 60.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform the requisite tasks (e.g., maneuvering of, or data entry into, the air flow measuring device 20, 60) for balancing the HVAC system 100.
  • the system 10 prompts the user to perform the initial steps, the requisite number of SET steps (depending on the number of terminals in the system 100), and the final blower adjustment step.
  • the express mode of the predictive balancing process 120 for balancing the HVAC system 100 is illustrated in Fig. 8B.
  • the flow set point for each terminal is determined based on the equations set forth above.
  • the express mode is meant for situations where abrupt transitions in the piping system and flow drop in the total system as a result of backpressure build-up can cause changes in the k-factors of the branches.
  • the express mode can compensate for these sources of error by implementing READ steps in the process, which allow for compensation at subsequent terminals, as described below.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform tasks through the user interface 40 or smart device 74 of the air flow hood 20, 60.
  • the predictive balancing process 120 begins with the initial steps 118, where the system 10 instructs the user to enter system information (number of terminals, target flow rates, terminal types/configurations), ensure that all terminals are full open, and obtain initial flow readings from each terminal.
  • each terminal is adjusted to achieve a flow at that terminal for the current state of the system 100 that corresponds to system balance once all other terminals are adjusted.
  • the flow to which each terminal is adjusted is therefore a flow that the system 10, implementing the express mode of the predictive balancing method 120, predicts will result in that terminal achieving its target flow, Qf ., when all other terminals are adjusted.
  • balancing the final terminal (D4 in the present example) will bring the entire HVAC system 100 into balance.
  • the express mode differs from the ideal mode in that it provides, via the READ steps, some compensation for the effects that adjusting the terminal under adjustment has on the k-factors for the remaining terminals and total flow in the system.
  • Fig. 8B illustrates a SET-READ pattern that is characteristic of the express mode of the predictive balancing process 120.
  • terminal D2 is adjusted at SET step 122 to a set point calculated according to the equations disclosed herein and based on the initially measured flow rates and target flow rates.
  • a measured flow through terminal D3 is then obtained at READ step 124 and used to calculate a set point for terminal D3, taking into account an error ratio relating predicted flow and measured flow at terminal D3.
  • Terminal D3 is adjusted to that set point at SET step 130.
  • This SET-READ pattern of steps in the express balancing mode of the process 120 continues in this manner through every terminal in the HVAC system 100, regardless of the size of the system and number of terminals in the system, until the last terminal is encountered.
  • terminal D4 is the last terminal to be set.
  • the system 100 is balanced, and the process can proceed to step 142, where the fan speed is adjusted to bring the balanced flows to target.
  • terminal D2 in this example, is identical to adjusting the first terminal in the ideal balancing mode.
  • terminal D2 is set at SET step 122.
  • the system 10 calculates the flow set point Q S for terminal D2 using Equation 7 (or Equation 5), and the resulting predicted flows Q PL using Equation 13, 14, 15 and 16 (or Equation 9, 10, 11 and 12), as follows:
  • the system 10 instructs the user to adjust terminal D2 until the flow measured through the hood equals the flow set point Q 2 .
  • Terminal D2 is thus set (SET step 122 complete).
  • the flow rates through the other terminals Dl, D3, and D4 should adjust to the predicted flows Q Pl , Q P3 , and Q P4 , respectively.
  • the system calculates a new predicted total flow Q PT resulting from setting terminal D2:
  • Figs. 10A and 10B The changes in the HVAC system 100 resulting from setting terminal D2 are illustrated in Figs. 10A and 10B.
  • Fig. 10A shows the system 100 with no changes, prior to setting terminal D2 to achieve flow set point Q S2 .
  • Fig. 10B illustrates the flow at terminal D2 - Q s resulting from setting terminal D2.
  • the flows at terminals Dl, D3, and D4 resulting from setting terminal D2 are Qc 3 > and Qc 4 > respectively.
  • the k-factors for terminals D1-D4 resulting from setting terminal D2 are k t , k 2 f , k 3 , and k 4 , respectively.
  • the system total flow Q Tc and pressure P oc change as a result of the setting terminal D2.
  • the flow drop in the HVAC system 100 resulting from the adjustment to terminal D2 can be approximated by the flow drop measured at another terminal in the system after the adjustment is made.
  • the express mode of the predictive balancing process 120 performs this via the READ step 124 (see Fig. 8B), where the user is instructed to measure the flow at terminal D3 (Qm 3 ) using the air flow measuring device 20, 60.
  • the system 10 compares this measured flow Q m3 to the predicted flow for that terminal Q P3 to estimate the drop in flow for the HVAC system 100 resulting from the adjustment to terminal D2 at the SET step 122. Using the ratio of measured to predicted flow at terminal D3, a new total flow can be calculated:
  • Q Tr is the prediction of the total flow resulting from setting terminal D2 to Q s .
  • the k-factors also need to be adjusted as a result of changes in the dynamics in the flow path to each terminal of the system.
  • the k-factors referred to and used herein are not associated with a single component, such as an elbow, damper, etc. Instead, the k-factors referred to and used herein are associated with losses at the terminal associated with flow detachment, recirculation region(s), and flow splits within the HVAC system 100. Revised k-factors are calculated as follows: IAP r
  • the process 120 proceeds to SET step 130, where terminal D3 is adjusted to a flow set point that accounts for the flow drop that resulted from the terminal D2 adjustment and the resulting variation in the k-factors of the branches.
  • the set point Qs 33 is determined usin Equation 7 (or 5):
  • Reset predicted flows (Q Plr ) are determined using Equations 13, 14 and 16 (or 9, 10 and 12):
  • the flow drop resulting from setting terminal D3 can be approximated as the difference in the flow drop at another terminal in the system after the adjustment is made. Accordingly, the process 120 proceeds to READ step 132 (see Fig. 8B), where the flow at terminal D4 is measured (Qm 44 ) and compared to the predicted flow (Q p .
  • Reset predicted flows (Q Plll ) are determined using Equations 13 and 14 (or 9 and 10):
  • the terminals D1-D4 have been adjusted to proportional balance.
  • proportional balance has all of terminals D1-D4 at equal flow.
  • the flows through terminals are proportionally balanced, they are higher than the target flow rates of 450 cfm.
  • the process 120 proceeds to step 142, where the fan or blower (see Figs. 7A-7C) of the HVAC system 100 is adjusted is adjusted while using the air flow hood 20, 60 to monitor air flow through any one of terminals D1-D4.
  • the monitored terminal reads target flow rate (450 cfm)
  • the other terminals will also discharge air at the target flow rate, and the balancing process 120 is complete.
  • the express balancing mode of the predictive balancing process 120 can be a preferred or default mode because it is both fast and accurate.
  • the READ steps used to compensate for flow and k-factor impacts from the SET step at the previous terminal takes place at the next terminal under adjustment.
  • the READ step taken after the SET step at terminal D2 is performed at terminal D3, which is also the next terminal under adjustment. Therefore, since the air flow measuring device 20, 60 needs to be placed at this terminal in order to perform the next SET step, it is fortuitous that the READ step also takes place at that terminal.
  • performing the SET step requires that the air flow measuring device 20, 60 be positioned on the terminal and that positioning be acknowledged to the system 10 via user entry, this positioning verification can also be used to trigger the READ step used to calculate the set point for the impending SET step. Therefore, the implementation of the express mode of the predictive balancing process 120 requires virtually no additional time or effort on the part of the user.
  • the system 10 implements the express mode of the predictive balancing process 120 via an air flow measuring device 20, 60.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform the requisite tasks (e.g., maneuvering of, or data entry into, the air flow measuring device 20, 60) for balancing the HVAC system 100.
  • the system 10 prompts the user to perform the initial steps, the requisite number of SET and READ steps (depending on the number of terminals in the system 100), and the final blower adjustment step.
  • the precision mode of the predictive balancing process 120 for balancing the HVAC system 100 is illustrated in Fig. 8C.
  • the precision balancing mode provides compensation for k-factor impacts that go above and beyond the compensation provided in the express mode, which further improves the accuracy of the balance. This is done by introducing the RESET step, which involves re-adjusting the terminal under adjustment based on a k- factor impact estimated from the READ step.
  • the process 120 is able to predict the changes in the system as a result of adjusting a terminal and correct the adjustment to that same terminal accordingly.
  • the initial steps 118 of the predictive balancing process 120 in the precision balancing mode are similar or identical to those in the ideal and express modes (Figs. 8A and 8B, respectively).
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform tasks through the user interface 40 or smart device 74 of the air flow hood 20, 60.
  • the predictive balancing process 120 begins with the initial steps 118, where the system 10 instructs the user to enter system information (number of terminals, target flow rates, terminal types/configurations), ensure that all terminals are full open, and obtain initial flow readings from each terminal.
  • each terminal is adjusted to achieve a flow at that terminal for the current state of the system 100 that corresponds to system balance once all other terminals are adjusted.
  • the flow to which each terminal is adjusted is therefore a flow that the system 10, implementing the precision mode of the predictive balancing method 120, predicts will result in that terminal achieving its target flow, Qj v when all other terminals are adjusted.
  • balancing the final terminal (D4 in the present example) will bring the entire HVAC system 100 into balance.
  • the precision mode differs from the ideal and express modes in that it provides, via READ and RESET steps, additional compensation for the effects that adjusting the terminal under adjustment has on the k-factors for the remaining terminals. This is accomplished via the RESET step, described below, which is implemented in the precision balancing mode.
  • Fig. 8C illustrates a SET-READ-RESET pattern that is characteristic of the precision mode of the predictive balancing process 120.
  • terminal D2 is adjusted at SET step 122 to a set point calculated according to the equations disclosed herein, flow through terminal D3 is measured at READ step 124, and terminal D2 is re-adjusted at RESET step 126 to a set point that re-calculated to take into account an error ratio of predicted to measured flow at terminal D3, the measured flow being that flow measurement obtained during the READ step 124.
  • Terminal D3 is then adjusted at SET step 130 to a calculated set point, flow through terminal D4 is measured at READ step 132, and terminal D3 is re-adjusted at RESET step 134 to a set point that re-calculated to take into account an error ratio of predicted to measured flow at terminal D4, the measured flow being that flow measurement obtained during the READ step 132.
  • This SET-READ-RESET pattern of steps in the process 120 continues in this manner through every terminal in the HVAC system 100, regardless of the size of the system and number of terminals in the system, until the last terminal is encountered. In the illustrated HVAC system 100, terminal D4 is the last terminal to be set.
  • the process 120 proceeds as follows: terminal D4 is adjusted at SET step 136, flow through terminal D3 is measured at READ step 138, and terminal D4 is re-adjusted at RESET step 140. Although carried out in the same SET-READ-RESET pattern, it is done so "backwards" so to speak, using the previous terminal D3 for the READ step 138, which is used to determine the error ratio for performing the RESET step 140 at terminal D4. At this point, the system 100 is balanced, and the process can proceed to step 142, where the fan speed is adjusted to bring the balanced flows to target.
  • the flow through terminal D2 is initially adjusted according to SET step 122 in the same manner as depicted above in the ideal and express modes.
  • the flow through terminal D3 is measured at READ step 124 and used to determine the flow drop at that terminal.
  • the flow drop at terminal D3 is approximated as the difference between the flow that was predicted to result from the adjustment (Q P3 ) and an actual measured flow that resulted from the adjustment (Q m3 ).
  • the flow drop can be approximated at any terminal in the system other than the terminal under adjustment, but selecting the terminal with the lowest k-factor ensures the highest resolution for correction. In the illustrated example, this is terminal D3, so terminal D3 is used.
  • Err 3 is greater than a predetermined value, e.g., 1%, then it justified to reset terminal D2 in order to maintain accuracy. In the present example, resetting terminal D2 is justified.
  • the k-factors also need to be adjusted as a result of changes in the dynamics in the flow path to each terminal of the system.
  • the revised k-factors are calculated as follows:
  • the flow through terminal D2 is adjusted to a revised set point (Q S2r ) at RESET step 126.
  • the revised set point is calculated using Equation 7 (or 5), as shown below.
  • the flow adjustments to terminal D2 made at RESET step 126 account for the estimated flow drop that resulted from the initial terminal D2 adjustment made at SET step 122 as measured through terminal D3 at READ step 124:
  • terminal D3 is ready to be adjusted, since it has the next lowest flow to target ratio.
  • the process 120 essentially repeats the steps used to adjust terminal D2, i.e., SET, READ, and RESET, as shown in Fig. 8C.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to move the air flow hood 20, 60 to terminal D3.
  • the system 10 can take advantage of the hood placement and take an air flow measurement at terminal D3, measuring the actual flow through the terminal resulting from the RESET step 126 of terminal D2.
  • This measured terminal D3 flow after reset, Qm 3r accounts for the changes brought into the system due to the adjusting of terminal D2:
  • a ratio of the D3 measured flow after reset Q m3r to the previously measured D3 flow Q m3 is used to determine a new predicted total system flow Q Trr :
  • Q Trr is the new predicted total system flow resulting from adjusting terminal D2 to Q S2r .
  • the process 120 proceeds to SET step 130, where the system 10 instructs the user to adjust terminal D3 to a flow set point that compensates for the flow drop resulting from the terminal D2 adjustment and the resulting variation in the k- factors of the branches.
  • the set point Q S33 is determined using Equation 7 (or 5) and implementing values calculated based on the newly measured actual flow (Q ):
  • Air flow at the other terminals is predicted based on the effect of closing terminal D3, using Equations 13, 14 and 16 (or 9, 10 and 12):
  • the flow drop resulting from the adjustment to terminal D3 can be approximated as the difference in the flow drop at another terminal in the system after the adjustment is made. Selecting the terminal with the lowest k-factor ensures the highest resolution for correction. In the illustrated example, this is terminal D4. Having adjusted terminal D3 at SET step 130, the process 120 proceeds to READ step 132 and the system 10 instructs the user to measure the flow at terminal D4 (Q m44 ) .
  • the measured terminal D4 flow Q m44 and the previously predicted terminal D4 flow Q P44 are:
  • the process proceeds to RESET step 134, and instructs the user to position the air flow hood 20, 60 at terminal D3.
  • RESET step 134 instructs the user to adjust terminal D3 to the reset calculated flow set point Q S33r (Equation 7 (or 5), see below).
  • Adjusting terminal D3 at RESET step 134 uses the measured D4 flow obtained at READ step 132 to compensate for the flow drop that resulted from the terminal D3 adjustment at SET step 130:
  • terminal D4 is ready to be adjusted, since it has the next lowest flow to target ratio.
  • the process 120 essentially repeats the steps used to adjust terminals D2 and D3, i.e., SET, READ, and RESET, as shown in Fig. 8C.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to move the air flow hood 20, 60 to terminal D4.
  • the system 10 can take advantage of the hood placement and take an air flow measurement at terminal D4, measuring the actual flow through the terminal resulting from the RESET step 134 of terminal D3.
  • This measured terminal D4 flow after reset, Q miir accounts for the changes brought into the system due to the adjusting of terminal D3:
  • a ratio of the D4 measured flow Q m44 to the D4 flow measured after reset Q m44r is used to determine a new predicted total system flow
  • Err 4 is greater than a predetermined threshold error, such as 1%
  • flow ratios are recalculated (r irrrr ): n > ' 2rrrr n > ' 3rrrr n > ' 4rrrr n ⁇ VTrrrr ⁇ VTrrrr ⁇ VTrrrr ⁇ VTrrrr flow set points are re-adjusted (Qi rr rr) ' -
  • the process 120 proceeds to SET step 136, where the system 10 instructs the user to adjust terminal D4 to a flow set point that compensates for the flow drop resulting from the terminal D3 adjustment and the resulting variation in the k- factors of the branches.
  • the set point 3 ⁇ 4 444 is determined using Equation 8 (or 6) and implementing values calculated based on the newly measured actual flow (Q m44r ) :
  • the flow drop resulting from the adjustment to terminal D4 can be approximated as the difference in the flow drop at another terminal in the system after the adjustment is made. Since terminal D4 is the last terminal to be adjusted, the pattern of the predictive balancing process 120 deviates somewhat, as shown in Fig. 8C. Having adjusted terminal D4 at SET step 136, the process 120 proceeds to READ step 138 and the system 10 instructs the user to measure the flow at terminal D3 (Qm 333 ). In the example of Fig. 8C, the measured terminal D4 flow Qm 333 and the previously predicted terminal D4 flow Q P333 are:
  • terminal D3 is measured purely out of convenience, presuming that it is nearest to terminal D4 and easy to get to. Any of terminals D1-D3 can be used for this step. Once flow through the terminal is measured, total flow is determined yet again:
  • Resetting terminal D4 accounts for the flow drop that resulted from the terminal D4 adjustment. Since terminal D4 is the last terminal to be adjusted, one would expect that the D4 reset flow set point Qs 444r and the reset predicted flows Q Vmr (see below) would be equal. Although not implemented in any further calculation or terminal adjustment, the reset predicted flows Q Plllr are shown below along with previously predicted flows (Q Plll ) for comparison:
  • the terminals D1-D4 have been adjusted to proportional balance.
  • proportional balance has all of terminals D1-D4 at equal flow.
  • the flows through terminals are proportionally balanced, they are higher than the target flow rates of 450 cfm.
  • the process 120 proceeds to step 142, where the fan or blower (see Figs. 7A-7C) of the HVAC system 100 is adjusted is adjusted while using the air flow hood 20, 60 to monitor air flow through any one of terminals D1-D4.
  • the monitored terminal reads target flow rate (450 cfm)
  • the other terminals will also discharge air at the target flow rate, and the balancing process 120 is complete.
  • the system 10 implements the precision mode of the predictive balancing process 120 via an air flow measuring device 20, 60.
  • the system 10 instructs the user to perform the requisite tasks (e.g., maneuvering of, or data entry into, the air flow measuring device 20, 60) for balancing the HVAC system 100.
  • the system 10 prompts the user to perform the initial steps, the requisite number of SET, READ, and RESET steps (depending on the number of terminals in the system 100), and the final blower adjustment step.
  • the methods can be implemented via a software application that is installed on the electronics 38 and can obtain air flow measurement data from the instrumentation 36. The user can enter data, receive instructions, and view results and other data via the user interface 40.
  • the methods can be implemented via a software application, e.g., the HVAC app, that is installed on the smart device 74, which can obtain air flow measurement data wirelessly from the instrumentation and electronics of the hood 60. In this instance, the user can enter data, receive instructions, and view results and other data via the user interface of the smart device 74 while located remotely from the air flow hood 60.
  • the technician Once the HVAC technician inputs all of the relevant information regarding the HVAC system under test into the system 10 during the initial steps 118 via the user interface of the air flow hood 20, 60, the technician simply follows the instructions provided by the system via the user interface to balance the system. Following the given instructions, the operator moves the hood from terminal to terminal and makes the adjustments as instructed by the system 10 according to the selected mode of the predictive balancing process 120.
  • the manner in which the technician is queried and instructed can vary greatly based on a variety of factors, such as the type of interface (e.g., smart device touch screen versus pushbutton driven LCD). Regardless of the manner in which the queries and instructions are presented, the process 120 will follow the same basic approaches described herein.

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  • Ventilation (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un procédé et un appareil d'équilibrage de terminaux d'un système de chauffage, de ventilation et de climatisation (CVC), qui utilisent un dispositif de mesure de débit d'air par introduction, dans une partie de traitement informatique du dispositif de mesure de débit d'air, de débits cibles prédéterminés pour chaque terminal ; acquisition, par le biais du dispositif de mesure de débit d'air, de débits d'air initialement mesurés à travers chacun des terminaux, les débits d'air initialement mesurés étant fournis à la partie de traitement informatique ; et réglage des terminaux dans le système CVC à des points de consigne de débit conformément à des instructions provenant de la partie de traitement informatique, la partie de traitement informatique étant programmée pour calculer le point de consigne de débit pour chaque terminal, étant données des conditions de charge courantes du système CVC, qui entraînera le réglage de tous les terminaux au débit cible après le réglage de tous les terminaux conformément aux instructions.
EP15825719.6A 2015-12-21 2015-12-21 Système, procédé et appareil d'équilibrage de système cvc Active EP3394696B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2015/067046 WO2017111896A1 (fr) 2015-12-21 2015-12-21 Système, procédé et appareil d'équilibrage de système cvc

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EP3394696A1 true EP3394696A1 (fr) 2018-10-31
EP3394696B1 EP3394696B1 (fr) 2022-10-19

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EP (1) EP3394696B1 (fr)
JP (1) JP6934874B2 (fr)
CN (1) CN108885472A (fr)
BR (1) BR112018012517B1 (fr)
CO (1) CO2018006700A2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2017111896A1 (fr)

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US12025962B2 (en) 2022-01-07 2024-07-02 Honeywell International Inc. Seamless wireless connection during commissioning of networked building controllers

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Publication number Publication date
JP6934874B2 (ja) 2021-09-15
BR112018012517B1 (pt) 2023-12-12
CN108885472A (zh) 2018-11-23
WO2017111896A1 (fr) 2017-06-29
EP3394696B1 (fr) 2022-10-19
JP2019507302A (ja) 2019-03-14
CO2018006700A2 (es) 2018-07-10
BR112018012517A2 (pt) 2018-12-11

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