Interactive occupant-tracking fan for indoor comfort and energy conservation
US10690372B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 9, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 8, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B30/70
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An occupant-tracking fan apparatus is provided with a source of forced air such as a fan nozzle in a movable support with multi-axis positioning and a controller with sensors controlling the moveable support directing forced air toward a target detected by the sensors. Targeting in real-time can be through camera imaging or with an array of ultrasonic transmitters/receivers that can identify occupant shape, range and thermal profile, even when the occupant is moving. The targeting fan cools by aiming a stream of air at the occupant increasing skin convection. The apparatus can also target thermal extremes and de-stratify air temperature gradients. Settings can be individualized by remote control, RFID tag or even prescribed gestures interpreted by the camera and controller. The apparatus may be part of a building wide system with a central controller that monitors sensors, controls each fan and the building HVAC systems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.