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WO2014107790A1 - Système et procédé de fourniture d'air conditionné à une structure close - Google Patents

Système et procédé de fourniture d'air conditionné à une structure close Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014107790A1
WO2014107790A1 PCT/CA2013/000964 CA2013000964W WO2014107790A1 WO 2014107790 A1 WO2014107790 A1 WO 2014107790A1 CA 2013000964 W CA2013000964 W CA 2013000964W WO 2014107790 A1 WO2014107790 A1 WO 2014107790A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
air
flow path
regeneration
supply air
transfer device
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.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/CA2013/000964
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Blake Norman ERB
Mohammad Afshin
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.)
Nortek Air Solutions Canada Inc
Original Assignee
Venmar CES Inc
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 Venmar CES Inc filed Critical Venmar CES Inc
Priority to CA 2888643 priority Critical patent/CA2888643A1/fr
Publication of WO2014107790A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014107790A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
    • F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
    • F28D21/0015—Heat and mass exchangers, e.g. with permeable walls
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F12/00—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening
    • F24F12/001—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening with heat-exchange between supplied and exhausted air
    • F24F12/006—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening with heat-exchange between supplied and exhausted air using an air-to-air heat exchanger
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
    • F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
    • F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
    • F24F3/1411—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by absorbing or adsorbing water, e.g. using an hygroscopic desiccant
    • F24F3/1417—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by absorbing or adsorbing water, e.g. using an hygroscopic desiccant with liquid hygroscopic desiccants
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
    • F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
    • F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
    • F24F3/147—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification with both heat and humidity transfer between supplied and exhausted air
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
    • F28D9/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
    • F28D19/00—Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus in which the intermediate heat-transfer medium or body is moved successively into contact with each heat-exchange medium
    • F28D19/04—Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus in which the intermediate heat-transfer medium or body is moved successively into contact with each heat-exchange medium using rigid bodies, e.g. mounted on a movable carrier
    • F28D19/045—Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus in which the intermediate heat-transfer medium or body is moved successively into contact with each heat-exchange medium using rigid bodies, e.g. mounted on a movable carrier with radial flow through the intermediate heat-transfer medium
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
    • Y02B30/56—Heat recovery units

Definitions

  • Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a system and method for providing conditioned air to an enclosed structure, and more particularly, relate to an energy exchange system and method configured to provide conditioned air to a commodities storage structure, such as a grain silo or bin, for example.
  • a commodities storage structure such as a grain silo or bin
  • Enclosed structures such as occupied buildings, factories, and animal barns, typically include a heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system that is configured to condition ventilated and/or recirculated air in the structure.
  • HVAC heating/ventilation/air conditioning
  • the HVAC system includes a supply path and a return and/or exhaust path.
  • the supply path receives air, for example outside or ambient air, re-circulated air, or outside or ambient air mixed with re-circulated air, and channels and distributes the air into the enclosed structure.
  • the air is conditioned by the HVAC system to provide a desired temperature and humidity of supply air discharged into the enclosed structure.
  • the exhaust path discharges air back to the environment outside the structure. Without energy recovery, conditioning the supply air typically requires a significant amount of auxiliary energy.
  • a commodities storage or depository structure such as a silo or bin that holds wheat, rice, corn, or the like is another example of an enclosed structure in which it is desirable to maintain certain temperature and humidity levels.
  • commodities such as cotton, coffee, or grain (such as wheat, corn, rice, or the like) are harvested, individuals such as farmers generally closely monitor the moisture content of the commodities. If grain, that is too moist, is stored in a grain silo or bin, the grain may spoil. Therefore, if the moisture level of the grain is too high, farmers typically wait for the grain to further ripen before harvesting the grain.
  • air blowers or fans have been used to dry the grain within the silos or bins.
  • an air blower channels outdoor air into the bottom of the silo or bin. The channeled outdoor air cools the grain and generally removes moisture from the silo or bin.
  • systems that utilize air blowers typically take several days, weeks, or even months to adequately dry a bin full of grain, depending on the moisture content of the outdoor air.
  • a great deal of energy may be used to run the air blowers or fans over such long periods. Accordingly, the cost of energy, whether in the form of electricity, diesel fuel, or the like, used to power the air blowers or fans may be a major expense.
  • a natural gas or propane fired tower dryer may be used to dry grain within a silo or bin.
  • air is heated using a gas burner.
  • the heated air is blown through a tower, which typically receives grain at a top portion and allows the grain to fall downward toward a base.
  • the tower dryer system may dry grain faster than an air blower or fan system, but the tower dryer system typically requires an individual to continuously move grain from bins to the tower device.
  • a typical tower dryer system consumes a relatively large amount of energy, both in terms of the continuous movement of grain from bin(s) to tower, as well operation of the gas-fired burner.
  • the air temperature is typically heated between 140oF to 175oF.
  • a hotter temperature generally allows for quicker drying of the grain.
  • the heat may partially or fully cook protein inside kernels of the grain, thereby reducing the nutritional value of the grain.
  • some crops, such as mustard generally require even lower heating temperatures, such as below 1 15oF. Accordingly, the tower dryer system and method may generate temperatures that are too high for certain crops and grains.
  • Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an energy exchange system configured to provide supply air to an enclosed structure.
  • the system may include an energy transfer device having a first portion configured to be disposed within a supply air flow path and a second portion configured to be disposed within a regeneration air flow path.
  • the energy transfer device may be configured to decrease a humidity level of the supply air.
  • the energy transfer device is configured to be regenerated with regeneration air.
  • the system may also include a first heat exchanger configured to be disposed within the supply air flow path downstream from the energy transfer device and within the regeneration air flow path upstream from the second portion of the energy transfer device.
  • the first heat exchanger is configured to transfer sensible energy between the supply air and the regeneration air.
  • the energy exchange system is configured to supply the supply air to the enclosed structure after the supply air passes through the energy transfer device and the first heat exchanger.
  • the enclosed structure may include a grain bin that for retaining grain.
  • the energy exchange system is configured to provide the supply air to the grain bin in order to dry grain.
  • the system may also include one or more bypass ducts configured to be disposed within one or both of the supply air flow path or the regeneration air flow path.
  • the bypass duct(s) are configured to bypass at least a portion of one or both of the supply air and the regeneration air around the energy transfer device.
  • the system may also include a heater configured to be disposed within a portion of the regeneration air flow path upstream from the energy exchange device.
  • the heater is configured to heat the regeneration air before it encounters the energy exchange device.
  • the system may also include a heater configured to be positioned within the supply air flow path downstream from the first heat exchanger.
  • the energy transfer device may include a desiccant wheel.
  • the energy transfer device may include a supply liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) configured to be positioned within the supply air flow path, and a regeneration LAMEE configured to be positioned within the regeneration air flow path.
  • LAMEE supply liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger
  • the system may also include a housing that contains the energy transfer device and the first heat exchanger.
  • a wheeled base may be connected to the housing.
  • the wheeled base is configured to provide a mobile energy exchange system.
  • the housing may be configured to be operatively connected to a plurality of enclosed structures.
  • a duct may be configured to connect a regeneration air inlet of the regeneration air flow path to an air outlet of the enclosed structure.
  • the system may also include a second heat exchanger having a first portion that is configured to be disposed within the regeneration air flow path downstream from the first heat exchanger and a second portion that is configured to be disposed within a return air path.
  • the second heat exchanger is configured to transfer sensible energy between the regeneration air and return air from an enclosed structure.
  • Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method of providing supply air to an enclosed structure.
  • the method may include decreasing a humidity level of supply air with an energy transfer device having a first portion disposed within a supply air flow path, transferring sensible energy between the supply air and regeneration air with a first heat exchanger that is within the supply air flow path downstream from the energy transfer device and within the regeneration air flow path upstream from the second portion of the energy transfer device, regenerating the energy transfer device with the regeneration air that passes through a second portion of the energy transfer device disposed within a regeneration air flow path, and supplying the supply air to the enclosed structure after the decreasing and transferring operations.
  • the enclosed structure may include a grain bin that retains grain.
  • the method may also include drying the grain within the grain bin with the supply air that is supplied to the grain bin.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system connected to an enclosed structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a schematic view of an energy transfer device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a damper, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a simplified perspective view of a plate heat exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to an energy exchange system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 6 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system connected to an enclosed structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a side perspective view of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a front view of panels within an energy exchange cavity of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 9 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to an energy exchange system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 10 illustrates a lateral view of an energy exchange system operatively connected to a grain bin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 11 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system connected to an enclosed structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 12 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to an energy exchange system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 13 illustrate a simplified overhead view of an energy exchange system operatively connected to a plurality of enclosures, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 14 illustrates a flow chart of a method of providing conditioned air to an enclosed structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system 100 operatively connected to an enclosed structure 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may include a housing 104, such as a self-contained module or unit that may be mobile (for example, the housing 104 may be moved among a plurality of enclosed structures), operatively connected to the enclosed structure 102, such as through a connection line 106, such as a duct, tube, pipe, conduit, plenum, or the like.
  • the housing 104 may be configured to be removably connected to the enclosed structure 102.
  • the housing 104 may be permanently secured to the enclosed structure 102.
  • the housing 104 may be mounted to a roof, outer wall, or the like, of the enclosed structure 102.
  • the enclosed structure 102 may be a room of a building, a commodities storage structure, or the like.
  • the housing 104 includes a supply air inlet 108 that connects to a supply air flow path 1 10.
  • the supply air flow path 110 may be formed by ducts, conduits, plenum, channels, tubes, or the like, which may be formed by metal and/or plastic walls.
  • the supply air flow path 110 is configured to deliver supply air 1 12 to the enclosed structure 102 through a supply air outlet 1 14 that connects to the connection line 106.
  • the housing 104 also includes a regeneration air inlet 116 that connects to a regeneration air flow path 1 18.
  • the regeneration air flow path 118 may be formed by ducts, conduits, plenum, tubes, or the like, which may be formed by metal and/or plastic walls.
  • the regeneration air flow path 1 18 is configured to channel regeneration air 120 received from the atmosphere (for example, outside air) back to the atmosphere through an exhaust air outlet 122.
  • the supply air inlet 108 and the regeneration air inlet 1 16 may be longitudinally aligned.
  • the supply air inlet 108 and the regeneration air inlet 1 16 may be at opposite ends of a linear column or row of ductwork.
  • a separating wall 124 may separate the supply air flow path 1 10 from the regeneration air flow path 118 within the column or row.
  • the supply air outlet 1 14 and the exhaust air outlet 122 may be longitudinally aligned.
  • the supply air outlet 1 14 and the exhaust air outlet 122 may be at opposite ends of a linear column or row of ductwork.
  • a separating wall 126 may separate the supply air flow path 110 from the regeneration air flow path 118 within the column or row.
  • the supply air inlet 108 may be positioned above the exhaust air outlet 122, and the supply air flow path 1 10 may be separated from the regeneration air flow path 1 18 by a partition 128.
  • the regeneration air inlet 116 may be positioned above the supply air outlet 114, and the supply air flow path 1 10 may be separated from the regeneration air flow path 118 by a partition 130.
  • the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 1 18 may cross one another proximate to a center of the housing 104. While the supply air inlet 108 may be at the top and left of the housing 104 (as shown in Figure 1 ), the supply air outlet 1 14 may be at the bottom and right of the housing 104 (as shown in Figure 1). Further, while the regeneration air inlet 116 may be at the top and right of the housing 104 (as shown in Figure 1), the exhaust air outlet 122 may be at the bottom and left of the housing 104 (as shown in Figure 1).
  • the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 1 18 may be inverted and/or otherwise re-positioned.
  • the exhaust air outlet 122 may be positioned above the supply air inlet 108.
  • the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 1 18 may be separated from one another by more than the separating walls 124 and 126 and the partitions 128 and 130 within the housing 104.
  • spaces which may contain insulation, may also be positioned between segments of the supply air flow path 110 and the regeneration air flow path 118.
  • the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 118 may simply be straight, linear segments that do not cross one another.
  • the housing 104 may be shifted 90 degrees about a longitudinal axis aligned with the partitions 128 and 130, such that that supply air flow path 110 and the regeneration air flow path 118 are side-by-side, instead of one on top of another.
  • An air filter 132 may be disposed within the supply air flow path 1 10 proximate to the supply air inlet 108.
  • the air filter 132 may be a standard HVAC filter configured to filter contaminants from the supply air 112.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the air filter 132.
  • An energy transfer device 134 may be positioned within the supply air flow path 1 10 downstream from the supply air inlet 108.
  • the energy transfer device 134 may span between the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 1 18.
  • a supply portion or side 135 of the energy transfer device 134 may be within the supply air flow path 110, while a regenerating portion or side 137 of the energy transfer device 134 may be within the regeneration air flow path 1 18.
  • the energy transfer device 134 may be a desiccant wheel, for example.
  • the energy transfer device 134 may be various other systems and assemblies, such as including liquid-to-air membrane energy exchangers (LAMEEs), as described below.
  • LAMEEs liquid-to-air membrane energy exchangers
  • a heat exchanger 136 is disposed within the supply air flow path 1 10 downstream from the energy transfer device 134.
  • the heat exchanger 136 may be a sensible heat exchanger and may be positioned at the junction of the separating walls 124, 126 and the partitions 128, 130.
  • the heat exchanger 136 may be positioned within both the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 1 18. As such, the heat exchanger 136 is configured to transfer energy between the supply air 1 12 and the regeneration air 120.
  • the heat exchanger 136 may include a flat plate, a sensible wheel, a heat pipe, a run- around glycol loop, and/or the like.
  • One or more fans 138 may be positioned within the supply air flow path 1 10 downstream from the heat exchanger 136.
  • the fan(s) 138 is configured to move the supply air 1 12 from the supply air inlet 108 and out through the supply air outlet 1 14 (and ultimately into the enclosed structure 102).
  • the fan(s) 138 may be located at various other areas of the supply air flow path 1 10, such as proximate to the supply air inlet 108.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the fan(s).
  • the energy exchange system 100 may also include a bypass duct 140 having an inlet end 142 upstream from the energy transfer device 134 within the supply air flow path 1 10.
  • the inlet end 142 connects to an outlet end 144 that is downstream from the energy transfer device 134 within the supply air flow path 110.
  • An inlet damper 146 may be positioned at the inlet end 142, while an outlet damper 148 may be positioned at the outlet end 144.
  • the dampers 146 and 148 may be actuated between open and closed positions to provide a bypass line for the supply air 1 12 to bypass around the energy transfer device 134.
  • a damper 150 may be disposed within the supply air flow path 1 10 downstream from the inlet end 142 and upstream from the energy transfer device 134.
  • the damper 150 may be closed in order to allow the supply air 1 12 to flow into the bypass duct 140 around the energy transfer device 134.
  • the dampers 146, 148, and 150 may be modulated between fully-open and fully-closed positions to allow a portion of the supply air 112 to pass through the energy transfer device 134 and a remaining portion of the supply air 1 12 to bypass the energy transfer device 134.
  • the bypass dampers 146, 148, and 150 may be operated to control the temperature and humidity of the supply air 1 12 as it is delivered to the enclosed structure 102. Examples of bypass ducts and dampers are further described in United States Patent Application No.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the bypass duct 140 and dampers 146, 148, and 150.
  • the supply air 1 12 enters the supply air flow path 110 through the supply air inlet 108.
  • the supply air 112 is then channeled through the energy transfer device 134, which pre-conditions the supply air 1 12.
  • the supply air 1 12 is pre-conditioned and passes through the heat exchanger 136, which conditions the pre-conditioned supply air 1 12.
  • the fan(s) 138 may then move the supply air 1 12, which has been conditioned by the heat exchanger 136, through the heat exchanger 136 and into the enclosed structure 102 through the supply air outlet 114.
  • an air filter 152 may be disposed within the regeneration air flow path 1 18 proximate to the regeneration air inlet 116.
  • the air filter 152 may be a standard HVAC filter configured to filter contaminants from the regeneration air 120.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the air filter 152.
  • the heat exchanger 136 is disposed within the regeneration air flow path 1 18 downstream from the air filter 152.
  • the heat exchanger 136 may be a sensible heat exchanger and may be positioned at the junction of the separating walls 124, 126 and the partitions 128, 130.
  • the heat exchanger 136 is positioned within both the supply air flow path 1 10 and the regeneration air flow path 118. As such, the heat exchanger 136 is configured to transfer sensible energy between the regeneration air 120 and the supply air 1 12.
  • a heater 154 may be disposed within the regeneration air flow path 1 18 downstream from the heat exchanger 136.
  • the heater 154 may be a natural gas, propane, or electric heater that is configured to heat the regeneration air 120 before it encounters the energy transfer device 134.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the heater 154.
  • the energy transfer device 134 is positioned within the regeneration air flow path 118 downstream from the heater 154. As noted, the energy transfer device 134 may span between the regeneration air flow path 1 18 and the supply air flow path 1 10.
  • the supply side 135 of the energy transfer device 134 is disposed within the supply air flow path 1 10 proximate to the supply air inlet 108, while the regeneration side 137 of the energy transfer device 134 is disposed within the regeneration air flow path 110 proximate to the exhaust air outlet 122. Accordingly, the supply air 1 12 encounters the supply side 135 as the supply air 1 12 enters the supply air flow path 1 10 from the outside, while the regeneration air 120 encounters the regeneration side 137 just before the regeneration air 120 is exhausted out of the regeneration air flow path 1 18 through the exhaust air outlet 122.
  • One or more fans 156 may be positioned within the regeneration air flow path 1 18 downstream from the energy transfer device 134.
  • the fan(s) 156 is configured to move the regeneration air 120 from the regeneration air inlet 1 16 and out through the exhaust air outlet 122 (and ultimately into the atmosphere).
  • the fan(s) 156 may be located at various other areas of the regeneration air flow path 1 18, such as proximate to the regeneration air inlet 1 16.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the fan(s).
  • the energy exchange system 100 may also include a bypass duct 158 having an inlet end 160 upstream from the energy transfer device 134 within the regeneration air flow path 1 18.
  • the inlet end 160 connects to an outlet end 162 that is downstream from the energy transfer device 134 within the regeneration air flow path 1 18.
  • An inlet damper 164 may be positioned at the inlet end 160, while an outlet damper 166 may be positioned at the outlet end 162.
  • the dampers 164 and 166 may be actuated between open and closed positions to provide a bypass line for the regeneration air 120 to flow around the energy transfer device 134.
  • a damper 168 may be disposed within the regeneration air flow path 1 18 downstream from the heater 154 and upstream from the energy transfer device 134.
  • the damper 168 may be closed in order to allow the regeneration air to bypass into the bypass duct 158 around the energy transfer device 134.
  • the dampers 164, 166, and 168 may be modulated between fully-open and fully-closed positions to allow a portion of the regeneration air 120 to pass through the energy transfer device 134 and a remaining portion of the regeneration air 120 to bypass the energy transfer device 134.
  • the energy exchange system 100 may not include the bypass duct 158 and dampers 164, 166, and 166.
  • the regeneration air 120 enters the regeneration air flow path 1 18 through the regeneration air inlet 116.
  • the regeneration air 120 is then channeled through the heat exchanger 136.
  • the regeneration air 120 passes through the heater 154, where it is heated, before encountering the energy transfer device 134.
  • the fan(s) 156 may then move the regeneration air 120 through the energy transfer device 134 and into the atmosphere through the exhaust air outlet 122.
  • FIG 2 illustrates a schematic view of an energy transfer device 212, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be used as the energy transfer device 134, shown in Figure 1.
  • a portion of the energy transfer device 212 is disposed within a supply air flow path 206 (such as the supply air flow path 1 10 of Figure 1) while another portion of the energy transfer device 212 is disposed within a regeneration air flow path 236 (such as the regeneration air flow path 1 18 of Figure 1 ).
  • the energy transfer device 212 is configured to transfer heat and/or moisture between the supply air flow path 206 and the regeneration air flow path 236.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be one or more of various types of energy transfer devices, such as, for example, an enthalpy wheel, a sensible wheel, a desiccant wheel, a plate heat exchanger, a plate energy (heat and moisture) exchanger, a heat pipe, a run-around loop, a passive or active run-around membrane energy exchanger (RAMEE), a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE), or the like. As shown in Figure 2, the energy transfer device 212 may be an enthalpy or desiccant wheel.
  • An enthalpy wheel is a rotary air-to-air heat exchanger.
  • supply air 208 within the supply air flow path 206 passes in a counter-flow direction with respect to regeneration air 234 within the regeneration air flow path 236.
  • the supply air 208 may flow through the lower half of the wheel, while the regeneration air 234 flows through the upper half of the wheel, or vice versa.
  • the wheel may be formed of a heat-conducting material with a desiccant coating.
  • the wheel may be filled with an air permeable material that provides a large surface area.
  • the surface area is the medium for sensible energy transfer.
  • the wheel picks up heat energy and releases it into the colder air stream.
  • Enthalpy exchange may be accomplished through the use of desiccants on an outer surface of the wheel. Desiccants transfer moisture through the process of adsorption, which is driven by the difference in the partial pressure of vapor within the opposing air streams.
  • the rotational speed of the wheel also changes the amount of heat and moisture transferred.
  • a slowly-turning desiccant coated wheel primarily transfers moisture.
  • a faster turning desiccant coated wheel provides for both heat and moisture transfer.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be a sensible wheel, a dehumidification wheel, a plate exchanger, a heat pipe, a run-around apparatus, a refrigeration loop having a condenser and evaporator, a chilled water coil, or the like.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be a flat plate exchanger.
  • a flat plate exchanger is generally a fixed plate that has no moving parts.
  • the exchanger may include alternating layers of plates that are separated and sealed. Because the plates are generally solid and non-permeable, only sensible energy is transferred.
  • the plates may be made from a selectively permeable material that allows for both sensible and latent energy transfer.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be a heat exchanger, such as shown and described in U.S. Application No. 12/910,464 entitled “Heat Exchanger for an Equipment Rack,” filed October 22, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be a run-around loop or coil.
  • a run-around loop or coil includes two or more multi-row finned tube coils connected to each other by a pumped pipework circuit.
  • the pipework is charged with a heat exchange fluid, typically water or glycol, which picks up heat from a conditioning coil and transfers the heat to a supply coil before returning again.
  • a heat exchange fluid typically water or glycol
  • the energy transfer device 212 may be a heat pipe.
  • a heat pipe is a thermal transfer device that includes one or more sealed pipes or tubes made of a material with a high thermal conductivity such as copper or aluminum at both hot and cold ends.
  • a vacuum pump is used to remove all air from the empty heat pipe, and then the pipe is filled with a fraction of a percent by volume of a vaporizable liquid or refrigerant, such as water, ethanol, HCFC, R134a, R-22, R407c, R410a, etc.
  • Heat pipes contain no mechanical moving parts. Heat pipes transfer thermal energy from one point to another by the evaporation and condensation of a working fluid, vaporizable liquid, or coolant.
  • FIG 3 illustrates a perspective view of a damper 340, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Any of the dampers shown and described with respect to Figure 1 may be configured as the damper 340.
  • the damper 340 includes a plurality of plates 342. Each plate 342 is positioned on a pivot (not shown) that allows the plates 342 to be moved between open and closed positions. As shown in Figure 3, the plates 342 are in fully-closed positions. When the damper 340 is to be opened, the plates 342 swing open in the direction of arc A.
  • the damper 340 may include a single sliding plate that slides between open and closed positions in directions denoted by arrow B. Indeed, the damper 340 may take any form that allows selective movement between open and closed positions.
  • FIG 4 illustrates a simplified perspective view of a plate heat exchanger 414, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the heat exchanger 136 shown in Figure 1 may be configured as the plate heat exchanger 414.
  • the plate heat exchanger 414 includes a plurality of parallel plates 444, which may be formed of aluminum and/or polyester, for example.
  • the plates 444 are integrally connected with side walls 446. As shown, the side walls 446 alternate between levels 448 and 450.
  • the levels 448 are oriented parallel with an axis x, while the levels 450 are oriented parallel with an axis y, which is perpendicular to the axis x.
  • levels 448 are oriented to receive and direct supply air 408 within a supply air flow path 418, while the levels 450 are oriented to receive regeneration air 409 from a regeneration air flow path 426. Therefore, air passing in the levels 448 cross-flows with the air in the levels 450. In this manner, sensible energy is exchanged between levels 448 and 450. The temperature of the warm air within the levels 448 is cooled by the cooler air cross-flowing through the levels 450. Therefore, the temperature of the air within the levels 448 and 450 tends to equilibrate with one another.
  • the warm air within the levels 448 is cooled by heat exchange with the cooler air in the levels 450, and the cooler air within the levels 450 is warmed by the warmer air within the levels 448.
  • Air that passes into the levels 448 is cooler after passing through the plate heat exchanger 414.
  • air that passes into the levels 450 is warmer after passing through the plate heat exchanger 414.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to the energy exchange system 100 (shown in Figure 1), according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the dampers 150 and 168 are fully-opened, while the dampers 146 and 164 are fully-closed.
  • the dampers 150, 168, 146, and 164 may be modulated between open and closed positions to control the temperature and humidity of both the supply air 1 12 and the regeneration air 120.
  • outside air passes into the supply air flow path 1 10 through the supply air inlet 108.
  • the supply air 1 12 may be filtered of contaminants, allergens, and the like, by the filter 132.
  • the supply air 1 12 has a particular temperature and humidity at area 170 within the supply air flow path 1 10, upstream from the energy transfer device 134.
  • the supply air 112 generally has the same temperature and humidity of outside air.
  • outdoor air enters the supply air inlet 108 having a temperature of 60oF and a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb.
  • outside air passes into the regeneration air flow path 1 18 through the regeneration air inlet 1 16.
  • the regeneration air 120 may be filtered of contaminants, allergens, and the like, by the filter 152.
  • the regeneration air 120 has a particular temperature and humidity at area 172 within the regeneration air flow path 1 18, upstream from the heat exchanger 136.
  • the regeneration air 120 generally has the same temperature and humidity of the outside air.
  • outdoor air enters the regeneration air flow path 118 and has a temperature a temperature of 60oF and a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb. at area 172.
  • the supply air 1 12 is moved from the area 170 through the supply side 135 of the energy transfer device 134.
  • the energy transfer device 134 increases the temperature of the supply air 1 12, while decreasing its humidity.
  • the supply air 112 has a higher temperature and lower humidity than at area 170.
  • the humidity level of the supply air 112 has been decreased, thereby allowing for more efficient drying of material within the enclosed structure 102, such as a commodities storage or depository structure.
  • the system 100 is also configured to cool the temperature of the pre-conditioned supply air 1 12 by passing the preconditioned supply air 1 12 at area 174 through the heat exchanger 136.
  • the pre-conditioned supply air 1 12 at area 174 having increased temperature and decreased humidity is then passed into the heat exchanger 136, where it exchanges sensible energy with the regeneration air 120 within the regeneration air flow path 1 18. Because the regeneration air 120 has a lower temperature than the supply air 1 12 within the heat exchanger 136, the temperature of the supply air 1 12 is decreased, while the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is increased. Thus, at area 176 within the supply air flow path 1 10, which is downstream from the heat exchanger 136, the temperature of the supply air 1 12 is lower than at area 174, although its humidity is unaltered. For example, after moving through the heat exchanger 136, the temperature of the supply air 112 is lowered to about 80oF, while its humidity ratio remains at about 18 grains/lb.
  • the low humidity supply air at area 176 is then supplied to the enclosed structure 102.
  • the temperature of the conditioned supply air 1 12 at area 176 has been lowered to a point where it does not adversely affect material within the enclosed structure.
  • the humidity level has been decreased through the energy transfer device 134 (and unaltered by the heat exchanger 136), thereby allowing conditioned supply air 1 12 at area 176 to be delivered to the enclosed structure 102.
  • the conditioned supply air 1 12 having a reduced humidity is able to dry contents within the enclosed structure, but the temperature of the conditioned supply air 1 12 does not adversely affect contents within the enclosed structure 102.
  • the supply air 1 12 at area 176 having an increased temperature and lower humidity than outside air, is then delivered to the enclosed structure 102, which may be a commodities storage or depository structure, such as a grain silo or bin, for example.
  • the warm, dry conditioned supply air 1 12 supplied to the enclosed structure 102 may dry material within the enclosed structure, such as grain. Because the temperature of the supply air 1 12 has been decreased as it moves through the heat exchanger 136, the temperature of the supply air 112 supplied to the enclosed structure does not overly heat material, such as grain, within the enclosed structure. Instead, the dry air supplied to the enclosed structure is configured to quickly and efficiently dry material, such as grain, with the enclosed structure 102, which may be a grain bin or silo.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 120 at area 178 within the regeneration air flow path 118 downstream from the heat exchanger 136 is higher than at area 172, although its humidity remains unaltered.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is increased through heat exchange with the supply air 1 12.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is about 90oF with a humidity ratio that remains at about 60 grains/lb.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is further increased by the heater 154, so that its temperature at area 180 is higher than at area 178. For example, after passing through the heater 154, the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is raised to over 280oF, while its humidity ratio remains at about 60 grains/lb. at area 180. Because the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is heated by the heater 154, the energy transfer device 134 operates more efficiently, in that the regeneration side 137 is able to transfer more heat energy to the supply side 135. The regeneration air 120 at area 180 regenerates the energy transfer device 134. The increased temperature of the regeneration side 137 transfers heat to the supply side 135, which is then transferred to the supply air 1 12. Moreover, humidity is transferred from the supply air 112 to the supply side 135, and to the regeneration side 137, thereby reducing the humidity of the supply air 1 12.
  • the humidity of the regeneration air 120 at area 182 in the regeneration air flow path 1 18 is higher than at area 180, while the temperature of the regeneration air 120 at area 182 is decreased.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 120 is lowered to about 125oF, while its humidity ratio increases to almost 200 grains/lb. at area 182.
  • the warm, humid regeneration air at area 182 is exhausted from the energy exchange system 100 into the atmosphere through the exhaust air outlet 122.
  • at least a portion of the regeneration air 120 at area 182 may re-directed through a bypass duct, for example, to preheat the regeneration air at either area 172 or 178.
  • sensible energy is transferred from the regeneration air 120 to the supply air 112, thereby increasing the temperature of the supply air 1 12 (and reducing the temperature of the regeneration air 120).
  • latent energy is transferred from the supply air 1 12 to the regeneration air 120, thereby decreasing the moisture content of the supply air 1 12 (while increasing the moisture content of the regeneration air 120).
  • the dampers 146, 148, 150, 164, 166, and 168 may be operated to control the amount of supply and regeneration air that passes through the energy transfer device 134. For example, a portion of the supply air 1 12 may be re-directed around the energy transfer device 134. In this manner, an operator may control humidity and temperature levels of the supply air 1 12 that is delivered to the enclosed structure 102. The temperature and humidity levels of the supply air 1 12 that is delivered to the enclosed structure 102 may be controlled depending on the nature of the contents within the enclosed structure 102. For example, one type of commodity, such as wheat, may be efficiently dried with supply air at particular humidity and temperature levels that differ from another type of commodity, such as rice.
  • An operator may control the amount of the supply air and the regeneration air that pass through the energy transfer device 134, through control of the amount of air that passes through the bypass ducts 140 and 158, in order to control humidity and temperature levels of the supply air 1 12 that is supplied to the enclosed structure 102.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system 600 connected to an enclosed structure 602, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy exchange system 600 is similar to the energy exchange system 100, except that an energy transfer device 604 extends between areas proximate to a supply air inlet 606 and a regeneration air inlet 608.
  • the energy exchanger system 600 may include a supply liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) 610 disposed within a supply air flow path 612 proximate to the supply air inlet 606.
  • An air filter 614 may be disposed within the supply air flow path 612 between the supply air inlet 606 and the supply LAMEE 610.
  • the system 600 may not include the air filter 614.
  • a regeneration LAMEE 616 may be disposed within a regeneration air flow path 618 proximate to the regeneration air inlet 608.
  • An air filter 620 may be disposed within the regeneration air flow path 618 between the regeneration LAMEE 616 and the regeneration air inlet 608.
  • the system 600 may not include the air filter 620.
  • the supply LAMEE 610 may connect to a heating source 622 through a fluid inlet conduit 624 and a fluid outlet conduit 626.
  • the heating source 622 may be a heat pump, solar heating system, waste heat recovery system, geothermal heating system, or the like.
  • the regeneration LAMEE 616 connects to the heating source 622 through a fluid inlet conduit 628 and a fluid outlet conduit 630.
  • the fluid inlet and outlet conduits 624, 628 and 626, 630, respectively, are configured to transfer an energy transfer fluid, such as a refrigerant, desiccant, or the like, between the supply LAMEE 610 and the regeneration LAMEE 616.
  • the heating source 622 is configured to heat at least a portion of energy transfer fluid, such as liquid desiccant, circulated between the regeneration LAMEE 616 and the supply LAMEE 610.
  • the energy transfer device 604 may include one or more fluid pumps to pump the energy transfer fluid between the supply and regeneration LAMEEs 610 and 616.
  • heat from the energy transfer fluid within the regeneration LAMEE 616 may be transferred to regeneration air 632 with the regeneration air flow path 618 passing through the regeneration LAMEE 616.
  • moisture from the energy transfer fluid within the regeneration LAMEE 616 is transferred to the regeneration air 632. Accordingly, the temperature of the regeneration air passing through the regeneration LAMEE 616 may increase, while its moisture-content also increases.
  • the energy transfer fluid now having a decreased temperature and decreased moisture-content, is then passed into the heat source 622 through the fluid outlet conduit 630.
  • the energy transfer fluid may be further heated within the heat source 622, and then passed to the supply LAMEE 610 by way of the fluid inlet conduit 624. Heat within the supply air 634 passing through the supply LAMEE 610 is then transferred to the energy transfer fluid within the supply LAMEE 610. At the same time, moisture from the supply air 634 passing through the supply LAMEE 610 is transferred to the energy transfer fluid, thereby increasing the moisture content of the energy transfer fluid and decreasing the moisture content of the supply air 634.
  • the energy transfer fluid is then pumped through the fluid outlet 626 to the heat source 622, and back to the regeneration LAMEE 616, and the process repeats. While the energy transfer device 604 is shown having the heat source 622, the energy transfer device 604 may alternatively not include the heat source 622.
  • the supply air 634 has an initial temperature and humidity at area 640 within the supply air flow path 612, upstream from the supply LAMEE 610.
  • the regeneration air 632 has an initial temperature and humidity at area 642 within the regeneration air flow path 618 upstream from the regeneration LAMEE 616.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 632 may be increased, while its moisture content is also increased.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 632 at area 644 may be greater than at area 642, while its moisture content may also be greater than at area 642.
  • the temperature of the supply air 634 may be reduced, while its humidity content is also reduced.
  • the temperature of the supply air 634 at area 646 may be less than at area 640, while its moisture content may also be less than at area 640.
  • the supply air 634 then passes from area 646 within the supply air flow path 612 into a heat exchanger 650, as described above.
  • the regeneration air 632 passes from area 644 within the regeneration air flow path 618 into the heat exchanger 650.
  • sensible energy is transferred between the supply air 634 and the regeneration air 632. Accordingly, the temperature of the supply air 634 that passes out of the heat exchanger 650 increases, while the temperature of the regeneration air that passes out of the heat exchanger 650 decreases.
  • the temperature of the supply air 634 is greater than at area 646, while its moisture content remains the same.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 632 is less than at area 644, while its moisture content remains the same.
  • the regeneration air 632 at area 654 within the regeneration air flow path 618 is then exhausted to atmosphere through an exhaust air outlet 656.
  • One or more fans 658 may be disposed within the regeneration air flow path 618 to move the regeneration air 632 therethrough.
  • a heater 660 such as an electric, propane, natural gas, or the like, heater may be disposed within the supply air flow path 612 downstream from the heat exchanger 650.
  • the heater 660 may further increase the temperature of the supply air 634 before it is supplied to the enclosed structure 602.
  • the temperature of the supply air 634 at area 662 within the supply air flow path 612 may be greater than at area 652, while its moisture content remains the same.
  • the system 600 may not include the heater 660.
  • One or more fans 664 may be disposed within the supply air flow path 612 to move the supply air 634 therethrough.
  • the energy exchange system 600 may also include bypass ducts and dampers that are configured to allow air streams to bypass the energy transfer device 604, as described above.
  • the dampers may be modulated in order to control the temperature and humidity of the air streams.
  • FIG 7 illustrates a side perspective view of a LAMEE 700, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the LAMEE 700 may be a LAMEE as described in WO 201 1/161547, entitled “Liquid-To-Air Membrane Energy Exchanger,” filed June 22, 201 1 , which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • the LAMEE 700 may be used as the supply LAMEE 610 and/or the regeneration LAMEE 616 (shown in Figure 6).
  • the LAMEE 700 includes a housing 702 having a body 704.
  • the body 704 includes an air inlet end 706 and an air outlet end 708.
  • a top 710 extends between the air inlet end 706 and the air outlet end 708.
  • a stepped- down top 712 may be positioned at the air inlet end 706.
  • the stepped-down top 712 may be stepped a distance 714 from the top 710.
  • a bottom 716 extends between the air inlet end 706 and the air outlet end 708.
  • a stepped-up bottom 718 may be positioned at the air outlet end 708.
  • the stepped-up bottom 718 may be stepped a distance 720 from the bottom 716.
  • the stepped-up bottom 718 or stepped-down top 712 sections may have different sizes of steps or no step at all.
  • An air inlet 722 is positioned at the air inlet end 706.
  • An air outlet 724 is positioned at the air outlet end 708.
  • Sides 726 extend between the air inlet 722 and the air outlet 724.
  • An energy exchange cavity 730 extends through the housing 702 of the LAMEE 700.
  • the energy exchange cavity 730 extends from the air inlet end 706 to the air outlet end 708.
  • An air stream 732 is received in the air inlet 722 and flows through the energy exchange cavity 730.
  • the air stream 732 is discharged from the energy exchange cavity 730 at the air outlet 724.
  • the energy exchange cavity 730 includes a plurality of panels 734.
  • a desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may be positioned on the stepped-up bottom 718.
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may have a height 740 equal to the distance 720 between the bottom 716 and the stepped-up bottom 718.
  • the liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may have any height that meets a desired performance of the LAMEE 700.
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 extends a length 739 of the LAMEE body 704. The length 739 is configured to meet a desired performance of the LAMEE 700.
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may extend no more than one fourth of the length 727 of the LAMEE body 704.
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may extend along one fifth, for example, of the length 727 of the LAMEE body 704.
  • the liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 738 is configured to receive desiccant 741 from a storage tank (such as within the heat source 622 of Figure 6).
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 includes an inlet 742 in flow communication with the storage tank.
  • the desiccant 741 is received through the inlet 742.
  • the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 includes an outlet that is in fluid communication with desiccant channels 776 in the energy exchange cavity 730.
  • the liquid desiccant 741 flows through the outlet into the desiccant channels 776.
  • the desiccant 741 flows along the panels 734 through the desiccant channels 776 to a desiccant outlet reservoir 746.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 may be positioned on the stepped- down top 712 of the housing 702. Alternatively, the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 may be positioned at any location along the top 712 of the LAMEE housing 702 or alternatively on the side of the reservoir with a flow path connected to all the panels.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 has a height 748 that may be equal to the distance 714 between the top 710 and the stepped-down top 712.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 extends along the top 712 of the LAMEE housing 702 for a length 750.
  • the length 750 may be no more than one fourth the length 727 of the flow panel exchange area length.
  • the length 750 may be one fifth, for example, the length 727 of the panel exchange area length.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 is configured to receive desiccant 741 from the desiccant channels 776 in the energy exchange cavity 730.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 includes an inlet 752 in flow communication with the desiccant channels 776.
  • the desiccant 741 is received from the desiccant channels 776 through the inlet 752.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 includes an outlet 754 that is in fluid communication with a storage tank.
  • the desiccant 741 flows through the outlet 754 to the storage tank where the desiccant 741 is stored.
  • the desiccant outlet reservoir 746 may be positioned along the bottom 718 of the LAMEE housing 702 and the desiccant inlet reservoir 738 may be positioned along the top 710 of the housing 702.
  • the LAMEE 700 includes one liquid desiccant outlet reservoir 746 and one liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 738.
  • the LAMEE 700 may include liquid desiccant outlet reservoirs 746 and liquid desiccant inlet reservoirs 738 on the top and bottom of each of each end of a LAMEE 700.
  • a liquid flow controller may direct the liquid flow to either the top or bottom.
  • FIG 8 illustrates a front view of the panels 734 within the energy exchange cavity 700 of the LAMEE 700, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the liquid flow panels 734 form a liquid desiccant channel 776 that may be confined by semi-permeable membranes 778 on either side and are configured to carry desiccant therethrough.
  • the semi-permeable membranes 778 are arranged in parallel to form air channels 736 with an average flow channel width of 737 and liquid desiccant channels 776 with an average flow channel width of 777.
  • the semipermeable membranes 778 are spaced to form uniform air channels 736 and liquid desiccant channels 776.
  • the air stream 732 travels through the air channels 736 between the semi-permeable membranes 778.
  • the desiccant in each desiccant channel 776 exchanges heat and moisture with the air stream 732 in the air channels 736 through the semi-permeable membranes 778.
  • the air channels 736 alternate with the liquid desiccant channels 776. Except for the two side panels of the energy exchange cavity, each air channel 736 may be positioned between adjacent liquid desiccant channels 776.
  • membrane support assemblies may be positioned within the air channels 736.
  • the membrane support assemblies are configured to support the membranes, as well as promote turbulent air flow between the air channels 736 and the membranes 778. The membrane support assemblies are further described in
  • Figure 9 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to the energy exchange system 600 (shown in Figure 6), according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the supply air inlet 606 As outdoor air enters the supply air inlet 606, it has an initial temperature of about 60oF and a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb. at area 640 within the supply air flow path 612.
  • the temperature of the supply air 634 After moving through the supply LAMEE 610, the temperature of the supply air 634 may be reduced to about 40oF and its humidity ratio reduced to about 16 grains/lb. at area 646, which is just downstream of the supply LAMEE 610 within the supply air flow path 612.
  • the system 600 After passing through the heat exchanger 650, sensible energy is transferred between the supply air 634 and the regeneration air 632 such that the temperature of the supply air 634 is increased to about 50oF (while its humidity ratio stays the same) at area 652 within the supply air flow path 612, which is between the heat exchanger 650 and the heater 660.
  • the heater 660 then increases the temperature of the supply air 634 to about l OOoF at area 662 before it is delivered to the enclosed structure 602. Accordingly, the system 600 provides dry air, which may be warm or hot, to the enclosed structure 602.
  • the regeneration air inlet 608 As outdoor air enters the regeneration air inlet 608, it has an initial temperature of about 60oF and a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb. at area 642 within the regeneration air flow path 618. After moving through the regeneration LAMEE 616, the temperature of the regeneration air 632 may be increased to about 80oF and its humidity ratio increased to about 110 grains/lb. at area 644, which is just downstream of the regeneration LAMEE 616 within the regeneration air flow path 618.
  • FIG 10 illustrates a lateral view of an energy exchange system 1000 operatively connected to a grain bin 1002, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy exchange system 1000 includes a housing 1004 supported by a base 1006, which may include wheels 1008. As such, the energy exchange system 1000 may be hitched to a vehicle and moved between locations, such as the grain bin 1002. In this manner, the energy exchange system 1000 may be a mobile system.
  • the energy exchange system 1000 may be similar to any of the systems described above, such as systems 100 (shown in Figure 1) and 600 (shown in Figure 6).
  • the housing 1004 includes a supply air inlet 1010, a regeneration air inlet 1012, an exhaust air outlet 1014, and a supply air outlet 1016.
  • the supply air outlet 1016 may be operatively connected to an air plenum 1018 of the grain bin 1002 through an air delivery member 1020, such as a conduit, duct, or the like, that connects the supply air outlet 1016 to the air plenum 1018.
  • an air delivery member 1020 such as a conduit, duct, or the like, that connects the supply air outlet 1016 to the air plenum 1018.
  • the grain bin 1002 may include a base 1022 integrally connected to cylindrical walls 1024, which, in turn, integrally connect to a cone-shaped roof 1026 having a central air outlet 1028.
  • the air plenum 1018 may be defined between an interior surface 1030 of the base 1022 and a vented support floor 1032.
  • a grain retention chamber 1034 is defined between the vented support floor 1032, the cylindrical walls 1024, and the roof 1026.
  • Grain 1036 such as wheat, rice, corn, or the like, is retained within the grain retention chamber 1034. While the grain bin 1002 is shown as being a silo-like structure having cylindrical walls and a cone-shaped roof, the grain bin 1002 may be various other shapes and sizes, such as rectangular or block shaped.
  • the energy exchange system 1000 provides supply air having low humidity to the air plenum 1018 within the grain bin 1002.
  • the dry supply air may also have a relatively high temperature, as compared to outside air.
  • the dry air supplied to the grain bin 1002 passes through the grain 1036 toward the air outlet 1028.
  • the dry supply air 1040 dries the grain 1036 and removes moisture therefrom.
  • As the supply air 1040 rises through the grain retention chamber 1034 its temperature may decrease and its humidity may increase as heat from the supply air 1040 is transferred to the grain 1036, and moisture from the grain 1036 is transferred to the supply air 1040.
  • the cooler air 1050 having increased moisture may then vent to the atmosphere through the air outlet 1028.
  • a duct 1060 may connect the air outlet 1028 to the regeneration air inlet 1012. Accordingly, the cooler air 1050 may be channeled from the air outlet 1028 to the regeneration air inlet 1012. As such, instead of outside air, the regeneration air may be supplied from return air from an enclosed structure, such as the grain bin 1002. While the return air from the grain bin 1002 may be cooler and more humid than the air supplied from the energy exchange system 1000, the return air may still be warmer and less humid than outside air. Therefore, the duct 1060 connecting the air outlet 1028 to the regeneration air inlet 1012 may lead to a more efficient energy exchange system 1000.
  • FIG. 1 1 illustrates a simplified schematic view of an energy exchange system 1 100 connected to an enclosed structure 1 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy exchange system 1 100 is similar to the system 100 (shown in Figure 1), except that an additional heat exchanger 1 104 is positioned between a regeneration air flow path 1 106 downstream from a heat exchanger 1108 and upstream from a heater 11 10.
  • a portion of the heat exchanger 1 104 may be within the regeneration air flow path 1 106, while another portion may be disposed within a return air duct or path 1 112.
  • the return air path 1 1 12 channels return air from the enclosed structure 1 102 to the heat exchanger 1 104, so that sensible energy is exchanged between regeneration air 1114 within the regeneration air flow path 1 1 14 and return air 1 1 16 with the return air path 1 1 12. After passing through the heat exchanger 1 104, the return air 1 1 16 may be exhausted to the atmosphere.
  • the heat exchanger 1 104 may be any of the heat exchangers described above, such as a flat plate, a sensible wheel, a heat pipe, a run-around glycol loop, and/or the like. Alternatively, at least a portion of air from area 1 146 may be diverted into the air path 1 1 12.
  • outdoor air enters a supply air flow path 1120 through a supply air inlet 1122.
  • the supply air 1124 has an initial temperature and humidity at area 1 126.
  • the supply air 1 124 then passes through a supply side 1 128 of an energy transfer device 1 130, such as a desiccant wheel.
  • the energy transfer device 1 130 may increase the temperature of the supply air 1 124 and reduce its humidity. Therefore, the supply air 1124 at area 1 132 may have a higher temperature and a lower humidity ratio than the supply air 1 124 at area 1 126.
  • the supply air 1 124 then passes through the heat exchanger 1108, which may reduce its temperature.
  • the temperature of the supply air 1 124 at area 1 134 is reduced, but its humidity ratio remains the same as compared to area 1 132.
  • the supply air 1 124 at area 1 134 is then supplied to the enclosed structure 1 102.
  • outside air enters the regeneration air flow path 1 106 through a regeneration air inlet 1 136.
  • the regeneration air 1 1 14 has an initial temperature and humidity. After passing through the heat exchanger 1 108, the temperature of regeneration air is decreased, while its humidity ratio remains the same.
  • the temperature of regeneration air 1 1 14 is reduced as compared to the area 1 138, while the humidity ratio of the regeneration air 1 1 14 is the same.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 is increased.
  • the sensible energy from the higher temperature return air 1 1 16 is transferred to the regeneration air 1 1 14, thereby increasing the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 at area 1142 is higher than at area 1 140, while the humidity ratio remains the same.
  • the heater 1 1 10 may be used to further increase the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 114 is higher than at area 1 142, while the humidity ratio remains the same.
  • the regeneration air 1 1 14 at area 1 144 is then used to regenerate the energy transfer device 1 128. Accordingly, at area 1 146 within the regeneration air flow path 1 106 downstream from the regeneration side 1 148 of the energy transfer device 1 130, the temperature of the regeneration air 1 114 is reduced, while its humidity ratio is increased.
  • the regeneration air 1 1 14 at area 1 146 is then exhausted to atmosphere.
  • the heat exchanger 1 104 and return air path 1 116 may be used with any of the embodiments discussed above.
  • the energy transfer device instead of the energy transfer device being a desiccant wheel, the energy transfer device may be one or more LAMEEs, as described above.
  • FIG. 12 illustrates a psychrometric chart with respect to the energy exchange system 1 100 (shown in Figure 1 1), according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • supply air 1 124 at area 1 126 has a temperature of about 60oF and a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb.
  • the temperature of the supply air 1 124 is increased, while its humidity ratio is decreased.
  • the temperature of the supply air 1 124 is about 1 15oF, while its humidity ratio is about 17 grains/lb.
  • the temperature of the supply air 1 124 may be lowered to about 80oF, while its humidity ratio remains at about 17 grains/lb.
  • the temperature and humidity ratio of the regeneration air 1 1 14 are generally the same as the supply air 1 124 at area 1 126.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1114 may be about 60oF, with a humidity ratio of about 60 grains/lb.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 may be increased as it exchanges sensible energy with the supply air 1 124 passing through the heat exchanger 1 108.
  • the regeneration air may have a temperature of about 92oF, with a humidity ratio remaining at about 60 grains/lb.
  • the regeneration air 1 1 14 After passing through the heat exchanger 1 104, which is downstream from the heat exchanger 1108, the regeneration air 1 1 14 exchanges sensible energy with the return air 1 1 16 within the return air path 1 1 12.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 may be about 1 19oF, with a humidity ratio remaining at about 60 grains/lb.
  • the heater 1 1 10 increases the temperature of the regeneration air 11 14 before the regeneration air 1 1 14 encounters the regeneration side 1148 of the energy transfer device 1 130.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 has been increased to about 290oF, while its humidity ratio remains at about 60 grains/lb.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air 1 1 14 is lowered, while its humidity ratio increases.
  • the temperature of the regeneration air has been lowered to about 130oF, while its humidity ratio has been increased to about 195 grains/lb.
  • the regeneration air 1 1 14 at area 1 146 is then exhausted to the atmosphere.
  • FIG. 13 illustrate a simplified overhead view of an energy exchange system 1300 operatively connected to a plurality of enclosures 1302a, 1302b, and 1302c, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the energy exchange system 1300 may be any of those described above.
  • Each enclosure 1302a, 1302b, and 1302c may be a grain bin, room, barn, or various other enclosures.
  • the energy exchange system 1300 may be operatively connected to more or less enclosures than shown in Figure 13.
  • a supply air outlet 1304 of the energy exchange system 1300 is operatively connected to a conduit 1306 that branches off to air inlets 1308 of each enclosure 1302a, 1302b, and 1302c.
  • the energy exchange system 1300 may provide relatively dry supply air to each of the enclosures 1302a, 1302b, and 1302c.
  • FIG 14 illustrates a flow chart of a method of providing conditioned air to an enclosed structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • a humidity level of supply air is reduced by passing the supply air through an energy transfer device, such as a desiccant wheel or supply LAMEE.
  • sensible energy is transferred between the supply air and regeneration air through the use of a heat exchanger.
  • the reduced-humidity supply air is supplied to an enclosed structure.
  • the energy transfer device is regenerated through the regeneration air, after it has passed through the heat exchanger. After 1406, the regeneration air is exhausted to atmosphere at 1408.
  • embodiments of the present disclosure provide energy exchange systems that receive outdoor air, return air, or a combination of both, and dry the air before supplying it to an enclosed structure, such as a commodities storage or depository structure.
  • the air may be conditioned to a desired temperature through one or more heaters, heat exchangers, and/or the like. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide quick, efficient, and inexpensive systems and methods for providing dry air to an enclosed structure.
  • the dry air may be used to quickly and efficiently dry material, such as grain, within the enclosed structure. Unlike grain tower drying systems, there is no need to move grain between a grain bin and a tower.
  • embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for drying grain that are quicker and more efficient than traditional blower systems and methods. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for drying grain, for example, that are safer than conventional systems and methods. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure allow for the temperature of the supply air to be controlled in order to ensure that the grain is not overheated. Further, the energy exchange systems described above may be operatively connected to any enclosed structure, such as a grain bin, in contrast to a tower drying system, in which grain from a bin is hauled in batches to a tower.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Central Air Conditioning (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système d'échange d'énergie conçu pour fournir de l'air fourni sec à une structure close. Le système peut comprendre un dispositif de transfert d'énergie comprenant une première partie conçue pour être disposée à l'intérieur d'un trajet d'écoulement d'air fourni et une seconde partie conçue pour être disposée à l'intérieur d'un trajet d'écoulement d'air de régénération. Le dispositif de transfert d'énergie est conçu pour réduire un niveau d'humidité de l'air fourni. Le dispositif de transfert d'énergie est conçu pour être régénéré grâce à l'air de régénération. Le système peut également comprendre un premier échangeur de chaleur conçu pour être disposé à l'intérieur du trajet d'écoulement d'air fourni en aval du dispositif de transfert d'énergie et à l'intérieur du trajet d'écoulement d'air de régénération en amont de la seconde partie du dispositif de transfert d'énergie. Le premier échangeur de chaleur est conçu pour le transfert d'énergie sous forme sensible entre l'air fourni et l'air de régénération. L'air fourni est conçu pour être fourni à la structure close après avoir traversé le dispositif de transfert d'énergie et le premier échangeur de chaleur.
PCT/CA2013/000964 2013-01-09 2013-11-13 Système et procédé de fourniture d'air conditionné à une structure close Ceased WO2014107790A1 (fr)

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CA 2888643 CA2888643A1 (fr) 2013-01-09 2013-11-13 Systeme et procede de fourniture d'air conditionne a une structure close

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US13/737,473 2013-01-09
US13/737,473 US20140190037A1 (en) 2013-01-09 2013-01-09 System and method for providing conditioned air to an enclosed structure

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US10634392B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2020-04-28 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Heat pump defrosting system and method
US9909768B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2018-03-06 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Variable desiccant control energy exchange system and method
US10352628B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-07-16 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Membrane-integrated energy exchange assembly
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US11408681B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2022-08-09 Nortek Air Solations Canada, Iac. Evaporative cooling system with liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger
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US10584884B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2020-03-10 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Control system and method for a liquid desiccant air delivery system
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US11092349B2 (en) 2015-05-15 2021-08-17 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Systems and methods for providing cooling to a heat load
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US11815283B2 (en) 2015-05-15 2023-11-14 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Using liquid to air membrane energy exchanger for liquid cooling
US10808951B2 (en) 2015-05-15 2020-10-20 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Systems and methods for providing cooling to a heat load
US12442558B2 (en) 2015-05-15 2025-10-14 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Using liquid to air membrane energy exchanger for liquid cooling
US10962252B2 (en) 2015-06-26 2021-03-30 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Three-fluid liquid to air membrane energy exchanger
US11892193B2 (en) 2017-04-18 2024-02-06 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Desiccant enhanced evaporative cooling systems and methods
US12385654B2 (en) 2017-04-18 2025-08-12 Nortek Air Solutions Canada, Inc. Systems and methods for managing conditions in enclosed space

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