ATTIC VENTILATION SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING HEAT AND MOISTURE

Abstract

Attic ventilation systems including an exhaust unit, a sensor, and a control unit. The exhaust unit is configured to mount proximate to an exhaust vent of an attic and includes a fan configured to force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent. The sensor is configured to detect temperature and humidity within the attic. The control unit is controllably coupled to the exhaust unit and is in data communication with the sensor. The sensor is configured to send the control unit current temperature data and current humidity data. The control unit is configured to control the fan to selectively force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent based on the current temperature data and the current humidity data.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to ventilation systems. In particular, attic ventilation systems for controlling heat and moisture are described.

Managing heat and moisture levels within attics is imperative for avoiding mold infestations and for maintaining comfortable conditions within living areas of a house. When heat and moisture levels in an attic are not controlled properly, condensation naturally forms on the underside of roof sheathing. Unmitigated condensation leads to mold colonies becoming established and propagating.

Mold infestation is problematic for multiple reasons. First and foremost, mold can cause adverse health consequences in people and pets. Mold can also damage structures. Further, removing mold is challenging and can be exorbitantly expensive. Avoiding mold rather than addressing mold is the superior approach.

Controlling heat and moisture levels is the most effective way to avoid mold colonies becoming established and growing. Conventional systems for ventilating attics are not entirely satisfactory to control heat and moisture.

For example, many conventional attic ventilation systems are configured to move air at too high of a flowrate. For example, many conventional attic ventilation systems use high voltage fans configured to move 900 to 1,200 cubic feet of air per minute.

Forcing air out of the attic at too high of a rate like conventional systems interferes with proper ventilation of the attic. Attics are designed to be ventilated by drawing air into the attic through eave vents and expelling air out of the attic through roof vents. Conventional high flowrate ventilation systems create too much vacuum and cause air to be pulled from living areas of the structure through penetrations in ceilings rather than through eave vents as designed. As a result of pulling too much vacuum, conventional high flowrate ventilation systems fail to create a controlled flow of air through the intended path; namely, 1) into the attic through eave vents; 2) through the attic to reduce temperature, humidity and condensation; and 3) out of the attic through roof vents.

Another shortcoming of conventional high flowrate ventilation systems is that they are unpleasant to have near living areas of a structure. Conventional high flowrate ventilation systems tend to cause unpleasant vibrations that can be readily perceived within living areas. Further, the conventional systems tend to be loud and distracting.

Conventional attic ventilation systems do not interface effectively with roof vents. It would be desirable to have a ventilation system designed to mount to roof vents to conveniently and effectively expel air through the roof vents out of the attic.

Conventional attic ventilation systems do not sufficiently account for humidity levels within the attic to control their operation. It would be advantageous to have an attic ventilation system that used humidity levels within the attic as a factor controlling how the ventilation system operated.

Thus, there exists a need for attic ventilation systems that improve upon and advance the design of known attic ventilation systems. Examples of new and useful attic ventilation systems relevant to the needs existing in the field are discussed below.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to attic ventilation systems including an exhaust unit, a sensor, and a control unit. The exhaust unit is configured to mount proximate to an exhaust vent of an attic and includes a fan configured to force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent. The sensor is configured to detect temperature and humidity within the attic. The control unit is controllably coupled to the exhaust unit and is in data communication with the sensor. The sensor is configured to send the control unit current temperature data corresponding to the temperature detected in the attic by the sensor at a given time. The sensor is also configured to send the control unit current humidity data corresponding to the humidity detected in the attic by the sensor at a given time. The control unit is configured to control the fan to selectively force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent based on the current temperature data and the current humidity data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of an attic ventilation system.

FIG. 2 is front elevation view of a control unit and a sensor of the attic ventilation system depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is front-left side perspective view of the control unit and the sensor depicted schematically encompassed within the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is front-left side perspective view of the control unit and the sensor of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is front-right perspective view of the control unit and the sensor of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is rear-left side perspective view of the control unit and the sensor of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of the control unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1 with a front wall of a housing in an open configuration.

FIG. 8 is an elevation view inside the housing shown in FIG. 7 depicting a control housing of the control unit mounted to the front wall of the housing.

FIG. 9 is an elevation view inside the housing shown in FIG. 7 depicting a bus and a power supply of the control unit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is another elevation view inside the housing shown in FIG. 7 depicting the bus and power supply of the control unit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a front-right perspective view of the sensor and the housing shown in FIG. 7 with the door in the open configuration.

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of an exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is another front elevation view of the exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is a front-left perspective view of the exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 15 is a front-bottom perspective view of the exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 is a front-right perspective view of the exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1 depicted mounted over a roof vent.

FIG. 17 is another front-right perspective view of the exhaust unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1 depicted mounted over a roof vent.

FIG. 18 is a schematic wiring diagram of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 19 is a front-left perspective view of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 is a front-right perspective view of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 21 is a schematic view of a first set of computer executable instructions executed by the control unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 22 is a schematic view of a first set of computer executable instructions executed by the control unit of the attic ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosed attic ventilation systems will become better understood through review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various inventions described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity, each and every contemplated variation is not individually described in the following detailed description.

Throughout the following detailed description, examples of various attic ventilation systems are provided. Related features in the examples may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity, related features will not be redundantly explained in each example. Instead, the use of related feature names will cue the reader that the feature with a related feature name may be similar to the related feature in an example explained previously. Features specific to a given example will be described in that particular example. The reader should understand that a given feature need not be the same or similar to the specific portrayal of a related feature in any given figure or example.

Definitions

The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

“Substantially” means to be more-or-less conforming to the particular dimension, range, shape, concept, or other aspect modified by the term, such that a feature or component need not conform exactly. For example, a “substantially cylindrical” object means that the object resembles a cylinder, but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder.

“Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional elements or method steps not expressly recited.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to denote a serial, chronological, or numerical limitation.

“Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

“Communicatively coupled” means that an electronic device exchanges information with another electronic device, either wirelessly or with a wire-based connector, whether directly or indirectly through a communication network.

“Controllably coupled” means that an electronic device controls operation of another electronic device.

Attic Ventilation Systems for Controlling Heat and Moisture

With reference to the figures, attic ventilation systems for controlling heat and moisture will now be described. The attic ventilation systems discussed herein function to ventilate attic spaces. Further, the systems serve to control heat and moisture levels within attic spaces. By controlling heat and moisture levels within attic spaces, the novel attic ventilation systems described in this document help avoid mold forming in attic spaces.

The reader will appreciate from the figures and description below that the presently disclosed attic ventilation systems address many of the shortcomings of conventional attic ventilation systems. For example, the novel attic ventilation systems described herein more effectively avoid mold becoming established and maintain comfortable conditions within living areas of a structure. The novel systems discussed below avoid and mitigate condensation that would otherwise naturally form on the underside of roof sheathing. By mitigating condensation, the novel systems discussed in this document help avoid mold formation.

By avoiding mold formation, the novel attic ventilation systems safeguard people and pets from the adverse health consequences that mold can cause. Further, the novel systems discussed herein help avoid the damage to structures that can result from mold along with the exorbitant expense to remove mold.

Unlike many conventional attic ventilation systems that are configured to move air at too high of a flowrate, the novel ventilation systems disclosed here move air through an attic at a moderate rate conducive to heat, moisture, and mold control. The novel ventilation systems described in this document avoid forcing air out of the attic at such a high flowrate that the ventilation pathways designed for the attic are bypassed. The novel systems enable ventilating attics by drawing air into the attic through cave vents and expelling air out of the attic through roof vents rather than pulling air from living areas of the structure through penetrations in the ceilings like conventional systems.

The novel ventilation systems discussed herein are well-suited to operating near living areas of a structure. For example, the novel systems do not cause unpleasant vibrations when operating like conventional systems. Further, the novel systems are quieter and less distracting than conventional systems. Thus, the novels systems described below avoid annoying occupants within living areas like often occurs with conventional systems.

Another improvement over conventional attic ventilation systems is that the novel systems herein interface effectively with roof vents. In particular, the novel ventilation systems are designed to mount to roof vents. Readily mounting to roof vents allows the novel ventilation systems to conveniently and effectively pull air out of the attic through the roof vents.

Advantageously, the novel attic ventilation systems described in this document account for humidity levels within the attic and modify their operation based on humidity level data. Using humidity level information within the attic as a factor controlling how the ventilation system operates allows the novel systems to operate more effectively and efficiently.

Contextual Details

Ancillary features relevant to the attic ventilation systems described herein will first be described to provide context and to aid the discussion of the attic ventilation systems.

Power Source

The attic ventilation systems disclosed herein are typically used with sources of electrical power. In the example shown in FIG. 1, a power plug 107 enabling attic ventilation system 100 to electrically couple to a power source is depicted. The power source to which power plug 107 electrically couples is utility power accessed through an electrical socket. In other examples, the power source is a battery. The power source may be any currently known or later developed source of power suitable for ventilation system applications.

Attic Ventilation System Embodiment One

With reference to FIGS. 1-22, a first example of an attic ventilation system, attic ventilation system 100, will now be described. Attic ventilation system 100 functions to ventilate attic spaces and to thereby control heat and moisture levels within an attic. By controlling heat and moisture levels within the attic, ventilation system 100 helps inhibit mold forming in attic spaces.

With reference to FIG. 1, the reader can see that attic ventilation system 100 includes a control unit 101, an exhaust unit 102, and a sensor 103. In some examples, the attic ventilation system does not include one or more features included in attic ventilation system 100. In other examples, the attic ventilation system includes additional or alternative features, such as additional exhaust units or sensors. The attic ventilation system may include any number of exhaust units and sensors for a given attic ventilation application.

Control Unit

Control unit 101 is controllably coupled to exhaust unit 102 and in data communication with the sensor 103. As shown in FIGS. 1, 19, and 20, control unit 101 is configured to electrically couple to a power source via power plug 107 and bus 110.

Control unit 101 functions to control operation of exhaust unit 102 via inputs from sensor 103. In particular, control unit 101 is configured to control fans 120 of exhaust unit 102 to selectively force air out of the attic through an exhaust vent of the attic based on the current temperature data and the current humidity data supplied by sensor 103.

In the example shown in the figures, control unit 101 includes a controller 104, a power supply 105, a bus 110, and a housing 106. In some examples, the control unit does not include a housing. In certain examples, the control unit does not include a power supply, but instead power from the power source to which the control unit is electrically coupled is directly utilized for powering the exhaust unit.

The components of control unit 101 are discussed in more detail in the sections below.

Controller

Controller 104 functions to control operation of exhaust unit 102 via inputs from sensor 103. The reader can see in FIGS. 18 and 19 that controller 104 is in data communication with sensor 103 and controllably coupled to power supply 105 via bus 110. Controller 104 is configured to electrically couple to a power source via power plug 107 and bus 110 to power the operation of controller 104 and to selectively direct power to power supply 105.

In the present example, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, 7-11, 19, and 20, controller 104 is housed within housing 106. In other examples, the controller is not housed within a housing.

Controller 104 is configured to receive temperature and humidity data from sensor 103. Further, controller 104 is programmed to use temperature and humidity data inputs from sensor 103 to control operation of exhaust unit 102. In particular, controller 104 selectively directs power from power supply 105 to exhaust unit 102 based on sets of computer executable instructions 180 and 190 relying on temperature and humidity data.

For example, controller 104 is programmed to turn on exhaust unit 102 via power transfer from power supply 105 to exhaust unit 102 when temperature or humidity within the attic rise above set thresholds. Further, controller 104 is programmed to adjust the fan speed of exhaust unit 102 based on temperature and humidity data received from sensor 103. In some examples, controller 104 is programmed to turn off exhaust unit 102 by not directing power from power supply 105 to exhaust unit 102 when temperature or humidity within the attic falls below set thresholds.

In particular, controller 104 of control unit 101 is configured to control fans 120 to force air through the exhaust vent when current temperature data provided by sensor 103 exceeds a threshold temperature parameter or when current humidity data provided by sensor 103 exceeds a threshold humidity parameter. The threshold temperature and humidity parameters may be input by a user into user input device 109.

In the present example, control unit 101 is configured to modify the voltage of the power supplied to fans 120 to control the speed of fans 120. More specifically, control unit 101 is programmed to modify the voltage of power supplied to fans 120 based on a magnitude of a difference between the current temperature data and the threshold temperature parameter or a difference between the current humidity data and the threshold humidity parameter. For example, the control unit may lower the voltage of power supplied to the fans to reduce the speed of the fans when the current humidity data is only slightly above the threshold humidity parameter. When the current humidity data is significantly above the threshold humidity parameter, the control unit may increase the voltage of power supplied to the fans to increase the speed of the fans exhausting air out of the attic through the attic vents.

In the example shown in the figures, control unit 101 is configured to jointly control both fans 120 of exhaust unit 102 as a group. In some examples, the control unit is configured to control each fan of the exhaust unit independently.

In the present example, as shown in FIGS. 1-11, 19, and 20, controller 104 includes a controller housing 160, a processing unit (not pictured), a user interface device 109, and a bus coupler 108. Controller housing 160 contains and protects the processing unit and associated computing components of controller 104. Controller housing 160 also supports user interface device 109.

Bus coupler 108 enables data communication between the processing unit, sensor 103, and power supply 105. As shown in FIGS. 7-11 and 19, bus coupler 108 couples to bus 110 inside housing 106. Bus coupler 108 includes a cable extending to controller housing 160 in data communication with the processing unit.

The processing unit functions to process data inputs received from sensor 103 and to output control signals pursuant to the processing unit executing computer executable instructions 180 and/or 190. With reference to FIG. 21, a first set of computer executable instructions 180 executed by the processing unit of controller 104 include an instruction 181 to receive a threshold temperature parameter corresponding to a desired temperature upper limit within the attic. Instruction 182 is to compare the current temperature data to the threshold temperature parameter. Computer executable instructions 180 further include an instruction 183 to selectively connect the fin with power from the power supply when the current temperature data exceeds the threshold temperature parameter.

With reference to FIG. 22, a second set of computer executable instructions 190 executed by the processing unit of controller 104 include an instruction 191 to receive a threshold humidity parameter corresponding to a desired humidity upper limit within the attic. Instruction 192 is to compare the current humidity data to the threshold humidity parameter. Computer executable instructions 190 further include an instruction 193 to selectively connect the fan with power from the power supply when the current humidity data exceeds the threshold humidity parameter.

In the present example, the processing unit executes instructions to selectively adjust the voltage of direct current electricity output to fans 120 via an output terminal of bus 110. More specifically, the processing unit selectively adjusts the direct current electricity output to fans 120 between 0 and 24 volts to control the speed of fans 120.

The processing unit is mounted inside controller housing 160 and is in data communication with user interface device 109. The processing unit is also in data communication with sensor 103. Further, the processing unit is controllably coupled to exhaust unit 102. The processing unit may be any currently known or later developed type of controller processing unit.

User interface device 109 is configured to receive user inputs and to communicate them to the processing unit. User interface device 109 is controllably coupled to the processing unit.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 20, user interface device 109 extends through an opening 113 in a front wall 114 of housing 106 in a position convenient for a user to enter inputs into user interface device 109. Front wall 114 may be described as a door and the opening may be described as a window 113 defined in front wall 114. Accordingly, user interface device 109 may be described as being disposed or mounted in window 113 of front wall 114.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 20, user interface device 109 includes two display screens and four control buttons. Other user interface device examples will be configured differently. The display screens display information about current set points and operating parameters. The control buttons enable a user to modify set points and operating parameters as well as to cycle through different types of information displayed on the screens. The user interface device may be any currently known or later developed type of controller user interface device.

In the present example, user interface device 109 is configured to enable a user to specify a threshold temperature parameter corresponding to a desired temperature upper limit within the attic. User interface device 109 is further configured to enable a user to specify a threshold humidity parameter corresponding to a desired humidity upper limit within the attic.

The controller may be any currently known or later developed controller suitable for controlling operation of exhaust units. The number of inputs and outputs of the controller may vary for different applications.

Power Supply

Power supply 105 functions to supply power to exhaust unit 102 at the particular electrical parameters required by exhaust unit 102. In the present example, power supply 105 is configured to convert alternating current electricity to direct current electricity at the voltage and amperage required for exhaust unit 102. Exhaust unit 102 is configured to operate at low voltage up to 24 volts and power supply 105 is configured to deliver power to exhaust unit 102 at 24 volts and 5 amps.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 7, 9-11, 18, and 19, power supply 105 is electrically connected to exhaust unit 102 via bus 110, a low-voltage power supply cable 150, and a low-voltage coupler 151. Low-voltage power supply cable 150 electrically couples to a low-voltage output port of bus 110. As shown in FIG. 18, bus 110 is configured to output electricity at 24 volts and 5 amps at the low-voltage output port to which low-voltage power supply cable 150 couples.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1, 19, and 20 that low-voltage coupler 151 electrically couples input wires 153 of exhaust unit 102 to low-voltage power supply cable 150. Low-voltage coupler 151 is also configured to couple low-voltage power supply cable 150 with a second low-voltage power supply cable 152. Second low-voltage power supply cable 152 delivers low voltage power to a second exhaust unit (not pictured) installed over a second exhaust vent. The attic ventilation system may include a plurality of low-voltage couplers and low-voltage power supply cables to deliver power to a plurality of exhaust units to exhaust air out of an attic.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1, 7, 9-11, 18 and 19 that power supply 105 is electrically connected to controller 104 via bus 110. In some examples, the power supply is additionally connected to a power source.

In the present example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 7, 9-11, and 19, power supply 105 is housed within housing 106. In other examples, the power supply is not housed within a housing. In certain examples, the power supply is incorporated into the exhaust unit. In some examples, the ventilation system does not include a power supply and the exhaust unit operates via the electrical parameters supplied by the power source, such as when the power source is a battery.

The power supply may be any power supply currently known or later developed. The size and capacity of the power supply may vary as needed for different applications and ventilation system components.

Bus

Bus 110 functions to electrically couple different components of attic ventilation system 100, including controller 104, power supply 105, exhaust unit 102, and sensor 103. As shown in FIGS. 7, 9-11, and 19, bus 110 is mounted inside housing 106.

Bus 110 provides a plurality of electrical terminals or ports to electrically couple with wires providing electrical connections with controller 104, power supply 105, exhaust unit 102, and sensor 103. FIG. 18 provides a schematic depiction of the electrical connections facilitated by bus 110.

As shown in FIGS. 7, 9-11, 18, and 19, bus 110 electrically connects power supply 105 to fans 120 via a low-voltage power supply cable 150 electrically coupled to bus 110. With reference to FIG. 18, bus 110 includes a fan power input terminal (labeled 24V 18 AWG in FIG. 18) electrically connected to a 24-volt output terminal (labeled V+ in FIG. 18) of power supply 105. The fan power input terminal of bus 110 is configured to receive 24-volt direct current electricity and to electrically connect with a fin power output terminal (labeled 24V with electrical path to Low Voltage (Fans) in FIG. 18) of bus 110. The fan power output terminal of bus 110 is configured to output up to 24-volt direct current electricity and is electrically connected to fans 120 via a low-voltage power supply cable 150, low-voltage coupler 151, and fan input wires 153.

The bus may be any currently known or later developed type of electrical bus. The number of electrical terminals and electrical connections facilitated by the bus will vary in different examples. The size and shape of the bus may vary to accommodate electrical connections for varying numbers of components and/or to fit within a given housing.

Housing

The housing is an optional component of the ventilation system, but serves multiple purposes when included. For example, housing 106 functions to protect components of the ventilation system. Further, housing 106 makes installing of the ventilation system easier. Moreover, housing 106 helps make the ventilation system tidy, organized, and aesthetically pleasing.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1, 3-7, 9-11, 19, and 20, housing 106 includes an enclosure 117 defining an enclosure opening 118, a front wall 114, latches 115, and mounts 116. The components of housing 106 are described below.

Front wall 114 is pivotally connected to the enclosure 117 to define a door. Front wall 114 is configured to pivot between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, front wall 114 covers enclosure opening 118. In the open configuration, front wall 114 is pivoted away from enclosure opening 118 to provide access inside enclosure 117.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5, 7-11, 19, and 20, controller 104, power supply 105, and bus 110 are housed inside enclosure 117. As shown in FIGS. 1-7, 9-11, 19, and 20, enclosure 117 defines three access ports 111 for routing data and power cables through enclosure walls of housing 106.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1-8, 11, and 19 that front wall 114 and two latches 115 provide selective access to enclosure 117 through enclosure opening 118. Front wall 114 defines an opening or window 113 in which user interface device 109 is mounted. Window 113 is defined in front wall 114 in a position convenient for a user to enter inputs into user interface device 109.

Housing 106 is configured to mount to a structure via two mounts 116, which are depicted in FIGS. 1-7, 9-11, 19, and 20. As shown in FIGS. 1-7, 9-11, 19, and 20, mounts 116 are coupled to housing 106 on a rear side of enclosure 117 opposite front wall 114. Mounts 116 are configured to receive and hang from fasteners, such as screws, bolts, or nails, secured to walls of the structure. Alternatively, mounts 116 may receive hooks secured to the wall of the structure.

Exhaust Unit

Exhaust unit 102 functions to force air out of an attic through roof exhaust vents. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, exhaust unit 102 is configured to mount proximate to an exhaust vent of an attic. Advantageously, exhaust unit 102 is complementarily configured with the exhaust vent of an attic to mount to the exhaust vent and force air from inside the attic out of the attic through the exhaust vent.

As shown in FIGS. 12-17, exhaust unit 102 includes two fans 120, a mounting plate 121, and input wires 153. The components of exhaust unit 102 are described further below.

Fans

Fans 120 function to force air out of an attic through roof exhaust vents. The reader can see in FIGS. 12-17 that fans 120 are mounted to mounting plate 121. As shown in FIGS. 1, 18, and 19, fans 120 are electrically connected to power supply 105 via bus 110 to receive the power necessary for fans 120 to operate.

In the present example, exhaust unit 102 includes two fans 120. In other examples, the exhaust unit includes a single fan. In certain examples, the exhaust unit includes more than two fans, such as three fans or an array of multiple fans. The exhaust unit many include any number of fans suitable to ventilating a given attic.

In examples with multiple fans, the fans may operate cooperatively to achieve a desired air flow rate. For example, the fans may operate concurrently at the same speed or at different speeds. In some instances, one fan operates while the other fan selectively does not operate.

The size and air flow rate characteristics of the fans may be selected to meet the needs of a given attic ventilation scenario. Preferably, the air flow rate will be sufficient to ventilate the attic, but not so high as to pull air from penetrations in the ceilings of living spaces rather than pulling air through eave vents. Further, the fan size and operating characteristics will preferably allow the fan to operate without perceptible vibrations or noise in living spaces of structures.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1-20, control unit 101 operates fans 120 to force air through the exhaust vent at a selected exhaust rate. The selected exhaust rate is selected to maintain a draw rate of air into the attic below a maximum flow rate capacity of eave vents defined in the attic. The maximum flow rate capacity of eave vents is the flow rate the cave vents can accommodate given their size, shape, and other flow-relevant configurations. Maintaining a draw rate below the maximum flow rate capacity of the eave vents with the selected exhaust rate avoids drawing air through penetrations into the attic from living spaces adjacent to the attic.

Fans 120 are low-voltage fans configured to move between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute. An air flow rate of between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute has been observed to be well-suited for effectively controlling temperature and moisture in an attic while remaining unobtrusive to people in living spaces next to the attic.

Moreover, selecting an air flow rate of between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute for the selected exhaust flow rate maintains a draw rate below the maximum flow rate capacity of the eave vents. Accordingly, controller 104 and exhaust unit 102 cooperating to exhaust air at an air flow rate of between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute avoids pulling air through from penetrations in the ceilings of living spaces. Beneficially, controller 104 and exhaust unit 102 cooperating to exhaust air at an air flow rate of between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute pulls air through eave vents of the attic consistent with the intended airflow design for the attic.

In the present example, each fan is configured to operate at the same fan speed and to move air at the same flow rate. However, in other examples, each fan may have a different fan speed and air flow rate. Different fans with different flow rates may be selectively combined to cooperatively yield a total desired flow rate.

For example, one fan with a flow rate of 100 cubic feet of air per minute may be selected to be alongside another fan with a flow rate of 50 cubic feet of air per minute to yield a combined flow rate of 150 cubic feet of air per minute. If a flow rate of 180 cubic feet of air per minute is desired, two fans each with a flow rate of 90 cubic feet of air per minute may be selected. Alternatively, one fan with a flow rate of 100 cubic feet of air per minute may be combined with another fan with a flow rate of 80 cubic feet of air per minute to yield a combined flow rate of 180 cubic feet of air per minute.

Fans 120 are configured to operate with direct current electricity up to 24 volts with a 5-amp current. Complementarily, power supply 105 is configured to convert alternating current electricity from a power source into 24 volts of direct current electricity and to deliver 24-volt direct current electricity at 5 amps to fans 120 via bus 110, low-voltage power supply cable 150, and low-voltage coupler 151.

The fans may be any currently known or later developed type of fan. In examples with multiple fans, the fans may all be the same type or may be different types.

Mounting Plate

As shown in FIGS. 12-17, 19, and 20, mounting plate 121 supports fans 120. Mounting plate 121 is configured to mount to an attic structure proximate a roof vent defined in an attic. In particular, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, mounting plate 121 is configured to mount to an attic structure to position fans 120 over a roof vent.

Mounting plate 121 defines mounting holes 122 through which fasteners (not pictured) can secure mounting plate 121 to an attic structure proximate a roof vent. In more detail, the reader can see in FIGS. 12-17, 19, and 20 that mounting plate 121 defines a tray 123 and two lips 124. Tray 123 supports fans 120. Lips 124 extend from peripheral edges of tray 123 and define mounting holes 122.

Mounting plate 121 is formed from plastic. However, the mounting plate may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, such as metal or wood.

Input Wires

Input wires 153 function to electrically couple fans 120 with low-voltage power supply cable 150 via low-voltage coupler 151. As shown in FIGS. 12-15, input wires 153 include positive and negative wires for each fan and all four wires are bundled together in a common sheath over a medial run of input wires 153. Positive and negative wires for each fan diverge outside the sheath to couple to low-voltage coupler 151 and to couple to each fan.

The input wires may be any currently known or later developed type of power input wires. The input wires may include additional wires to supply additional fans or to meet the electrical coupling needs of a given fan or system.

Sensor

Sensor 103 functions to detect humidity and temperature and to provide humidity and temperature data to control unit 101. Sensor 103 is controllably coupled to controller 104 via bus 110.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5, 11, 19, and 20, sensor 103 includes a bus coupler 130, a data cable 131, and a sensor module 132. As shown in FIGS. 7-11 and 19, bus coupler 130 is coupled to bus 110. Sensor module 132 includes humidity and temperature sensors and is connected to bus coupler 130 via data cable 131. Data cable 131 extends through housing 106 via one of access ports 111.

In the present example, sensor 103 is configured to detect both humidity and temperature in an attic. In some examples, discrete sensors are included to individually detect humidity and temperature instead of the combined humidity and temperature sensor 103. In certain examples, the sensor is configured to detect additional conditions beyond humidity and temperature, such as illumination or air flow.

Sensor 103 is in data communication with control unit 101 via bus 110. Sensor 103 is configured to send control unit 101 current temperature data corresponding to the temperature detected in the attic by sensor module 132 at a given time. Further, sensor 103 is configured to send control unit 101 current humidity data corresponding to the humidity detected in the attic by sensor module 132 at a given time. Control unit 101 is configured to control fans 120 to selectively force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent based on the current temperature data and the current humidity data supplied by sensor 103.

In the example depicted in the figures, ventilation system 100 includes a single sensor 103. In other examples, the ventilation system includes two or more sensors. The ventilation system may include any number of sensors suitable for a given application. The sensor may be any currently known or later developed type of sensor.

The disclosure above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a particular form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above and inherent to those skilled in the art pertaining to such inventions. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims should be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein.

Claims

1. An attic ventilation system, comprising: an exhaust unit configured to mount proximate to an exhaust vent of an attic and including a fan configured to force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent;a sensor configured to detect temperature and humidity within the attic; anda control unit controllably coupled to the exhaust unit and in data communication with the sensor;wherein: the sensor is configured to send the control unit current temperature data corresponding to the temperature detected in the attic by the sensor at a given time;the sensor is configured to send the control unit current humidity data corresponding to the humidity detected in the attic by the sensor at a given time; andthe control unit is configured to control the fan to selectively force air out of the attic through the exhaust vent based on the current temperature data and the current humidity data.

2. The attic ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a power supply operatively connected to the fan.

3. The attic ventilation system of claim 2, wherein the control unit includes a bus electrically connecting the power supply to the fan.

4. The attic ventilation system of claim 3, wherein: the control unit includes a housing; andthe power supply and the bus are disposed inside the housing.

5. The attic ventilation system of claim 4, wherein: the control unit includes a user interface device;the housing includes a front wall defining a front window; andthe user interface device is mounted in the front window.

6. The attic ventilation system of claim 5, wherein: the housing includes an enclosure defining an enclosure opening;the front wall is pivotally connected to the enclosure to define a door configured to pivot between a closed configuration where the front wall covers the enclosure opening and an open configuration where front wall is pivoted away from the enclosure opening to provide access inside the enclosure; andthe power supply and the bus are mounted to the housing within the enclosure.

7. The attic ventilation system of claim 3, wherein: the power supply is configured to convert alternating current electricity into 24 volts of direct current electricity; andthe fan is configured to operate with direct current electricity up to 24 volts.

8. The attic ventilation system of claim 7, wherein the bus includes: an input terminal electrically connected to the power supply and configured to receive 24-volt direct current electricity; andan output terminal electrically connected to the fan and configured to output 24-volt direct current electricity to the fan.

9. The attic ventilation system of claim 8, wherein: the control unit includes a processor executing computer executable instructions; andthe processor is configured to selectively adjust the voltage of the direct current electricity output to the fan via the output terminal between 0 and 24 volts to control the speed of the fan.

10. The attic ventilation system of claim 2, wherein the control unit includes a processor configured to execute computer executable instructions, the processor being in data communication with the sensor and controllably coupled to the fan.

11. The attic ventilation system of claim 10, wherein the computer executable instructions include instructions to: receive a threshold temperature parameter corresponding to a desired temperature upper limit within the attic;compare the current temperature data to the threshold temperature parameter; andselectively connect the fan with power from the power supply when the current temperature data exceeds the threshold temperature parameter.

12. The attic ventilation system of claim 11, wherein the control unit is configured to modify the voltage of the power supplied to the fan to control the speed of the fan based on a magnitude of a difference between the current temperature data and the threshold temperature parameter.

13. The attic ventilation system of claim 10, wherein the computer executable instructions include instructions to: receive a threshold humidity parameter corresponding to a desired humidity upper limit within the attic;compare the current humidity data to the threshold humidity parameter; andselectively connect the fan with power from the power supply when the current humidity data exceeds the threshold humidity parameter.

14. The attic ventilation system of claim 1, wherein: the exhaust unit includes a second fan controllably coupled to the control unit; andthe control unit jointly controls the fan and the second fan.

15. The attic ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a user interface device configured to enable a user to specify a threshold temperature parameter corresponding to a desired temperature upper limit within the attic.

16. The attic ventilation system of claim 15, wherein the user interface device is further configured to enable a user to specify a threshold humidity parameter corresponding to a desired humidity upper limit within the attic.

17. The attic ventilation system of claim 16, wherein the control unit is configured to control the fan to force air through the exhaust vent when the current temperature data exceeds the threshold temperature parameter or the current humidity data exceeds the threshold humidity parameter.

18. The attic ventilation system of claim 1, wherein: the exhaust unit includes a mounting plate configured to mount to the attic proximate the exhaust vent; andthe fan is mounted to the mounting plate.

19. The attic ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the fan to force air through the exhaust vent at an exhaust rate selected to maintain a draw rate of air into the attic below a maximum flow rate capacity of eave vents defined in the attic to avoid drawing air through penetrations into the attic from living spaces adjacent to the attic.

20. The attic ventilation system of claim 19, wherein the exhaust rate is between 100 and 200 cubic feet of air per minute.