Patent Application
20220390133
The present invention relates to a scent and disinfectant disbursement apparatus and method. More specifically, the scent and disinfectant disbursement apparatus utilizes a pressure gradient across a central air conditioning system air handler to draw and distribute scented fumes from a scent oil reservoir.
The invention pertains to a scent and disinfectant disbursement apparatus, which utilizes a pressure gradient across a central air conditioning system air handler to draw and distribute scented fumes from a scent oil reservoir.
Central air conditioning systems disburse conditioned air throughout a structure. Air conditioning systems include a compressor and an air handler. Air conditioners utilize Boyle's law to manipulate a fluid to condition air temperature. The compressor adds energy into a system by pressurizing a fluid, which consequently elevates the temperature of the fluid. The heated fluid is then cooled to ambient temperature using fans. The ambient, compressed fluid is then allowed to expand, causing the fluid to cool. The air handler draws air in from an interior of a structure, passes the air across a heat exchanger, and returns the conditioned air to the structure through a distribution ducting system.
Disinfectant injection systems are currently available for introducing a disinfectant into an air conditioning system. These systems utilize pumps and inject vapor into the ducting portion of the air conditioning systems. In certain configurations, the system requires a parallel ducting section for the injection of the disinfectant vapor.
Air conditioning systems include a compressor, an air handler, a controller (usually a thermostat), and ventilation. The air conditioning system is designed to collect condensation in a base of the air handler. The collected condensation drains through a drain pipe, which is commonly routed from the air handler to a location external to the structure. The collected condensation commonly also collects dust, lint, and other debris. The collected debris can clog the air handler drain pipe. The clogged or blocked air handler drain pipe hinders draining of the collected condensation within the base of the air handler. The condensation can continue to collect and commonly overflows into the surrounding area. Newer air handlers include a float switch located within the condensation collection tray, wherein the float switch disables the air conditioning compressor when the air handler drain pipe is blocked and a concerning volume of condensation collects at the base of the air handler.
Typically, the air handler drain pipe is partially disassembled providing access to a flush system. The flush system can be pressurized air or flowing water. The pressurized air or flowing water would be forced downstream to dislodge and remove the blockage from within the air handler drain pipe.
Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for a device that provides an apparatus and method to inject a disinfectant and/or scent into an air conditioning without complicated and expensive components. Additionally, there remains a need in the art for a device that provides an apparatus and method to flush any debris from the air handler drain pipe to avoid any downtime and/or damage to the air conditioning system.
The present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing a method and respective apparatus for distributing a scented vapor a disinfectant throughout an interior of a structure, such as a residence or commercial building.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of a vapor injection system, the system comprising:
In a second aspect, a scent generating liquid is disposed within the scent injection assembly.
In another aspect, the scent injection assembly further comprises a scent reservoir and a scent injection body, wherein the scent reservoir is removably coupled to the scent injection body.
Yet another aspect, the scent injection assembly further comprises a scent control valve.
While another aspect, a scent operation control valve can be integrated within a section of the pressure application conduit.
With yet another aspect, the scent operation control valve can be integrated within a section of the scent injection conduit.
Yet another aspect, a plurality of scent dispersion reeds are disposed within the scent injection assembly, wherein the reeds are positioned extending upward from the scent generating liquid.
Regarding another aspect, an ultrasonic scent injection system comprising an ultrasonic system controller and an ultrasonic scent disbursement head, the ultrasonic system controller being in signal communication with the ultrasonic scent disbursement head and being positioned within the scent injection assembly.
In yet another aspect, the ultrasonic scent disbursement head is in fluid communication with the scent generating liquid.
In yet another aspect, the power controller for the air handler provides power to the ultrasonic scent disbursement head.
In yet another aspect, aerating the scent liquid can enhance the scent liquid vaporization. The aeration can be created by directing the pressurized airflow towards a bottom of the reservoir via an aerating conduit.
In yet another aspect, the aerator further comprises a backflow prevention device disposed at a discharge end of the aerating conduit. The backflow prevention device can be provided in a shape of an inverted U, discharging the airflow in a downward direction.
In yet another aspect, the aerator further comprises at least one check valve to further aid in controlling and minimizing any backflow.
In yet another aspect, a second exemplary embodiment of an aerator comprises a rotational shaft comprising at least one aerating blade assembly. The shaft is rotationally assembly via at least one bearing. In the exemplary embodiment, a bearing is positioned at each of an upper and a lower end of the shaft.
In yet another aspect, the second aerator embodiment is operationally driven by directing inlet airflow towards a drive blade assembly, the drive blade assembly being operationally engaged with the aerating shaft. The airflow rotates the aerating shaft, which rotates the aerating blade assembly. The aerating blade assembly aerates the scenting liquid.
And with another aspect, a method of use includes the steps of:
In another aspect, the scent generating liquid is vaporized using a plurality of scent dispersing reeds placed within the scent injection assembly.
In yet another aspect, the scent generating liquid is vaporized using an ultrasonic scent disbursement system.
In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of an air handler heat exchanger rinse system, the system comprising:
In a second aspect, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system further comprises an automated controller.
In another aspect, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system further comprises an automated controller comprising a microprocessor and a clocking circuit.
In another aspect, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system further comprises an automated controller comprising a microprocessor, a non-volatile digital memory device in signal communication with the microprocessor, and a clocking circuit device in signal communication with the microprocessor.
In yet another aspect, the at least one heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery component is a spray nozzle.
In yet another aspect, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system further comprises chemical injection system, wherein the chemical injection system is adapted to inject a volume of a chemical cleaning composition into the rinse fluid.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can be a bleach based composition.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can include an antibacterial element.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can include an antifungal element.
In accordance with an operation of the air handler heat exchanger rinse system, the operation would include a method comprising steps of:
In another aspect the method further comprises a step of:
In yet another aspect the predetermined number of air conditioning cycles can be one or more cycles.
In yet another aspect the predetermined number of air conditioning cycles can be replaced by a calendar schedule, such as number of hours, number of days, number of months, or the like.
In yet another aspect the rinse process can have an operation cycle based upon a predetermined period of time.
In yet another aspect the rinse process can operate based upon a predetermined volume of rinse fluid.
In yet another aspect the rinse process can provide a predetermined volume of rinse fluid.
In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of an air handler drain pipe flush system, the system comprising:
In a second aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush system further comprises an automated controller.
In another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush system further comprises a float valve actuator assembly.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly is located in fluid communication between an air handler condensation collection section and the air handler drain pipe flush supply pipe.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float valve adapted to limit flow of the drain pipe flush fluid towards the air handler condensation collection section.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float valve comprising a float element adapted to float when subjected to a volume of fluid.
In yet another aspect, the float element engages with a float valve ring seal creating a fluid impervious seal between the drain pipe flush fluid supply and the air handler drain pipe.
In yet another aspect, a float activated check valve and switch actuator body is slideably assembled within an interior of a float activated check valve and switch enclosure.
In yet another aspect, an anti-rotation feature is provided between the float activated check valve and switch actuator body and the float activated check valve and switch enclosure.
In yet another aspect, an anti-rotation feature is provided between the float activated check valve and switch actuator body and the float activated check valve and switch enclosure, wherein the anti-rotation feature is a non circular.
In yet another aspect, a float element is carried by the float activated check valve and switch actuator body.
In yet another aspect, the float element raises and lowers a float activated check valve and switch actuator body based upon a buoyancy provided by a volume of stationary and collected fluid within an interior of the float activated check valve and switch enclosure.
In yet another aspect, the float activated check valve and switch actuator body comprises an aperture that enables flow of collected condensation when the float activated check valve and switch actuator body is in a flow through position and restricts flow of collected condensation when the float activated check valve and switch actuator body is in a restricted flow position.
In yet another aspect, unrestricted flow of condensation from the air conditioning air handler limits buoyancy to the float element of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body.
In yet another aspect, restricted flow of condensation from the air conditioning air handler creates buoyancy for the float element of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body.
In yet another aspect, movement of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body activates and deactivates the backflow actuated switch.
In yet another aspect, movement of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body activates and deactivates the backflow actuated switch, wherein the backflow actuated switch provides a signal to the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float element, wherein the float element is adapted to be positioned into a closed valve configuration by flow from the drain pipe flush fluid.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float switch.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float switch, wherein the float switch is activated by the float valve.
In yet another aspect, the float valve actuator assembly includes a float switch, wherein the float switch is adapted to control operation of the air condition. The float switch would deactivate the air conditioner when the float switch is in a closed configuration and enables normal operation of the air condition when the float switch is in an open configuration.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe includes a J trap section.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush supply pipe injects drain flush fluid between the air handler and the J trap section.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush supply pipe injects drain flush fluid between the float valve actuator assembly and the J trap section.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush system further comprises an automated controller comprising a microprocessor and a clocking circuit.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush system further comprises an automated controller comprising a microprocessor, non-volatile digital memory, and a clocking circuit.
In another aspect, the automated controller is provided in signal communication with an air conditioner thermostat or other air conditioning system controller.
In yet another aspect, the air handler drain pipe flush system further comprises chemical injection system, wherein the chemical injection system is adapted to inject a volume of a chemical cleaning composition into the flush fluid.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can be a bleach based composition.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can include an antibacterial element.
In yet another aspect, the chemical cleaning composition can include an antifungal element.
In accordance with an operation of the air handler heat exchanger rinse system, the operation would include a method comprising steps of:
In another aspect the method further comprises a step of:
In yet another aspect the predetermined number of air conditioning cycles can be one or more cycles.
In yet another aspect, the method can further comprise a step of closing a float valve located between the drain pipe flush fluid source and the air handler condensation collection section, blocking any flow of the drain pipe flush fluid into the air handler.
In yet another aspect, the method can further comprise a step of using the flush fluid to close the float valve located between the drain pipe flush fluid source and the air handler condensation collection section, blocking any flow of the drain pipe flush fluid into the air handler.
In yet another aspect the predetermined number of air conditioning cycles can be replaced by a calendar schedule, such as number of hours, number of days, number of months, or the like.
In yet another aspect the flush process can have an operation cycle based upon a predetermined period of time.
In yet another aspect the flush process can operate based upon a predetermined volume of flush fluid.
In yet another aspect the flush process can provide a predetermined volume of flush fluid.
These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the attached drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which follow.
The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not to limit the invention, in which:
Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular embodiments, features, or elements. Specific structural and functional details, dimensions, or shapes disclosed herein are not limiting but serve as a basis for the claims and for teaching a person of ordinary skill in the art the described and claimed features of embodiments of the present invention. The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims.
For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “rear”, “right”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
A central air conditioning system 100 comprising a scent dispersion system 200 is illustrated in
The compressor assembly 130 includes a compressor 134 and a compressor fan 136 integrated into a compressor housing 132. The air conditioning air handler 110 includes an air handler fan 120 and a heat exchanger 122 integrated within an air handler housing 112. The air handler housing 112 is segmented into a low pressure section 116 and a high pressure section 118 by a pressure divider wall 114. The air handler fan 120 creates a pressure gradient between the low pressure section 116 and the high pressure section 118 as referenced.
The air conditioning system utilizes a refrigerant to provide a thermal adjustment to the ambient air. The refrigerant is supplied to the compressor assembly 130 by a refrigerant supply conduit 140, and then compressed by the compressor 134. As the refrigerant is compressed, the refrigerant increases in temperature in accordance with Boyle's law (alternately referred to as the Ideal Gas law). The compressor fan 136 cools the compressed refrigerant, preferably returning to an ambient temperature. The pressurized refrigerant is transferred to the air conditioning air handler 110 by a refrigerant return conduit 142. The refrigerant expands within the heat exchanger 122. As the refrigerant expands, the refrigerant cools in accordance with Boyle's law. Ambient air passes across the heat exchanger 122. The heat exchanger 122 conditions the air temperature to the desired temperature. The conditioned air is transferred through the facility by the air handler fan 120 and the air conditioning ducting 150. The air handler fan 120 creates the airflow and the air conditioning ducting 150 distributes the conditioned air.
A trunk ducting 152 transfers the conditioned air from the air conditioning air handler 110 to a branch ducting 154. A ducting transition 156 provides fluid communication between the trunk ducting 152 and the branch ducting 154. The branch ducting 154 is routed throughout the facility to distribute the conditioned air accordingly. The conditioned air is discharged from the branch ducting 154 through a plurality of vents 158.
A scent dispersion system 200 is integrated into the air conditioning air handler 110 of the central air conditioning system. The scent dispersion system 200 comprises a scent injection assembly 210, a pressure application conduit 230 and a scent injection conduit 236. The exemplary scent injection assembly 210 includes a scent reservoir 212 and an integrated scent injection body 216, wherein it is preferably that the scent reservoir 212 is removably attached to the integrated scent injection body 216 by any reasonable mechanical interface. The scent reservoir 212 can be fabricated of a translucent or transparent material allowing a service person to view and monitor the remaining volume of a scent generating liquid 260 disposed within the scent injection assembly 210. An exemplary interface utilizes a releasable reservoir coupling 214 comprising a threaded interface. The integrated scent injection body 216 includes an inlet coupler 220 for attachment to the pressure application conduit 230 (or other integrated pressurized component, such as a post valve pressure application conduit 234 as illustrated) and a discharge coupler 224 for attachment to the scent injection conduit 236. An inlet orifice 222 is provided through the inlet coupler 220 for transference of the pressurized airflow from the high pressure section 118 into the scent injection assembly 210. A discharge orifice 226 is provided through the discharge coupler 224 for transference of the scented airflow from the scent injection assembly 210 into the low pressure section 116 for mixing with the conditioned air.
The pressure application conduit 230 obtains pressure from the high pressure section 118, which generates an airflow therethrough. Pressure is applied across a pressure application orifice 232 provided at a first end of the pressure application conduit 230. The pressure generates a pressure airflow 250, which enters the pressure application orifice 232, passes through the pressure application conduit 230 and into the scent injection assembly 210 through an inlet orifice 222. The scent generating liquid 260 steadily vaporizes forming a scent generating vapor 262. The scent generating vapor 262 mixes into the passing airflow forming a scent injection airflow 252, where the scent injection airflow 252 exits the scent reservoir 212, passing through the discharge orifice 226. The scent injection airflow 252 continues traveling along the scent injection conduit 236, exiting through the scent injection orifice 238 to enter into the low pressure section 116 of the air conditioning air handler 110. The scented air mixture combines with the conditioned air to form a scented and conditioned air mixture 254, which is distributed throughout the facility.
An optional scent operation control valve 240 can be inserted into the system segmenting the pressure application conduit 230 into a shortened pressure application conduit 230 and a post valve pressure application conduit 234. The scent operation control valve 240 can be manually operated or automated. The automated control can be operated by a timer controlling circuit, a remote control, a user directed control, a scent management circuit, and the like. The scent management circuit can determine the quantity of scent remaining in the reservoir, the amount of scent residing within the atmosphere within the facility, and the like. Alternately, a scent dispersion flow valve control 228 can be integrated into the scent injection assembly 210 to limit the exposure of the scent generating liquid 260 to the pressure airflow 250. This can include activating and deactivating the scent dispersion system 200.
The vaporization process of the scent injection assembly 210 can be enhanced in any variety of scent enhancing apparatus. The scent enhancing apparatus accelerates a process of converting a scent generating liquid 260 into a scent generating vapor 262. A first exemplary scent enhancing apparatus utilizes a plurality of scent dispersing reeds 270 as illustrated in
A second exemplary scent enhancing apparatus utilizes an ultrasonic system to vaporize the scent generating liquid 260 as illustrated in
A third exemplary scent enhancing apparatus aerates the scent generating liquid 260. The aeration process can be provided by any known by those skilled in the art. A first exemplary aeration system 300 directs the pressure airflow 250 into the scent generating liquid 260 as illustrated in
A second exemplary aerator 400 utilizes a rotational assembly comprising at least one aerating blade assembly 460 for aerating the scent generating liquid 260 as illustrated in
Although the primary disclosure presents a scent dispersion system, it is understood that a disinfectant may be utilized ether in place of or in conjunction with the scent generating liquid 260.
The scent dispersion system 200 can be integrated into any air conditioning system, including automotive applications, trains, planes, and the like. The pressure application orifice 232 would be placed in an upstream region of a heat exchanger/air movement fan or blower and the scent injection orifice 238 would be placed in a position downward from the fan, drawing the scented air inward.
The air conditioning air handler 110 includes an air handler heat exchanger 122. Any dust, lint, debris; or other contamination; condensation build up; and the like upon the air handler heat exchanger 122 can affect the efficiency of the air conditioning system 100. A heat exchanger rinse system 500, introduced in
The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would preferably include a microprocessor 552, a non-volatile digital memory 554 in signal communication with the microprocessor 552, and a clocking circuit 556 in signal communication with the microprocessor 552. The microprocessor 552 would operate in accordance to an instruction set, wherein the instruction set would be resident on either the microprocessor 552 or the non-volatile digital memory 554. The clocking circuit 556 provides digital clocking or timing information to the microprocessor 552.
The air conditioning thermostat 180 would preferably include an air conditioning thermostat microprocessor 182, an air conditioning thermostat thermometer 184 in signal communication with the air conditioning thermostat microprocessor 182, and an air conditioning thermostat system controller 186 in signal communication with the air conditioning thermostat microprocessor 182 and the operating components of the air conditioning system 100. The air conditioning thermostat microprocessor 182 would operate in accordance to an instruction set, wherein the instruction set would be resident on either the air conditioning thermostat microprocessor 182 or a non-volatile digital memory device (not shown).
The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 can be configured to receive signals from the air conditioning thermostat 180 and direct actions based upon the signals received from the air conditioning thermostat 180.
An optional rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 can be integrated into the heat exchanger rinse system 500. The rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 would preferably be configured to inject a chemical cleaning composition 536 into the rinse fluid during the rinsing cycle. The rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 would be located along the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510 between the sourcing end of the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510 and the delivery end of the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510. In the exemplary configuration, the rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 is located between the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520 and the delivery end of the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510.
The rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 would include a rinse cleaning composition reservoir 532 for containing a volume of the chemical cleaning composition 536. Access to the rinse cleaning composition reservoir 532 can be provided by an aperture, wherein the aperture would be accessed and sealed by a rinse cleaning composition reservoir fill cap 534. A rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 would be integrated between the rinse cleaning composition reservoir 532 and the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510, wherein the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 governs retention and delivery of the chemical cleaning composition 536 within and from, respectively, into the heat exchanger rinse system 500. The rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 would be operated in accordance with a signal provided to a rinse cleaning composition supply valve actuator 542. A rinse cleaning composition supply valve coupling element 544, such as a piping T, can be included to place the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 in fluid communication with the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510.
An exemplary operation of the heat exchanger rinse system 500 is described in an air handler heat exchanger rinse process 1000 presented in
The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would be programmed to activate the system based upon any of a variety of conditions (decision step 1020). In one exemplary condition, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would activate the system based upon a predetermined number of operating cycles of the air conditioning system 100. The cycles would be identified by a communication link between the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 and the air conditioning thermostat 180. The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 can be programmed to activate the system 500 after each cycle, after every other cycle, after any predetermined quantity of cycles, or randomly. In a second exemplary condition, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would activate the system 500 based upon a predetermined time span, such as once a day, once every other day, once every predetermined number of days, once a week, once every two weeks, once a month, once every other month, randomly, or any other suitable setting. In a third exemplary condition, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would activate the system 500 based upon a predetermined number of operating cycles of the air conditioning system 100 and based upon a predetermined time span, whichever is shorter or whichever is longer, all dependent upon the user's desired settings.
Upon activation of the heat exchanger rinse system 500, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would transmit an actuation signal to the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve actuator 522 to actuate the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520. The heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520 would move into an open state (step 1030), allowing flow of rinse fluid from a heat exchanger rinse fluid source 560 to a delivery end of the heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery conduit 510. The rinse fluid would be dispensed onto the air handler heat exchanger 122 through the at least one heat exchanger rinse fluid delivery component 512, referenced as a heat exchanger rinse application 562 (step 1036).
The heat exchanger rinse system 500 can include an optional rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530. The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 can direct the rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 to dispense and introduce a chemical cleaning composition 536 into the rinse fluid by actuating or opening the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 (step 1034). The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would transmit an actuation signal to the rinse cleaning composition supply valve actuator 542 to actuate the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540. Operation of the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 can be determined by a programming of the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550. In one example, operation of the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 can synchronized with the operation of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520. The rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 can be closed prior to the closure of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520 enabling the rinse fluid to rinse off any of the applied chemical cleaning composition 536. In a second example, operation of the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 can based upon a cycle count of the operation of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520. The cycle count can be each operation of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520, every other operation of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520, or every nth operation of the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520. Alternatively, operation of the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540 can be based upon a predetermined time span, such as once a day, once every other day, once every predetermined number of days, once a week, once every two weeks, once a month, once every other month, randomly, or any other suitable setting. The rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 can include a device to monitor the stored volume or inventory of the chemical cleaning composition 536. The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 can include an indicator to identify when the volume or inventory of the chemical cleaning composition 536 reaches a predetermined level to inform a service person of a need to replenish the chemical cleaning composition 536 within the rinse cleaning composition reservoir 532. The chemical cleaning composition 536 can include a bleach based composition, an antibacterial element, an antifungal element, and the like.
The heat exchanger rinse system 500 would apply the rinse fluid (with or without the chemical cleaning composition 536) until the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 determines the rinse cycle is complete (decision step 1040). This can be based upon a pre-established time period, a volume of applied rinse fluid, monitoring clarity of the rinse fluid discharged from the air handler heat exchanger 122, and the like. Once the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 determines that the rinse cycle is complete (decision step 1040), the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 de-actuates or closes the heat exchanger rinse supply flow control valve 520 and, when applicable, the rinse cleaning composition supply valve 540. The heat exchanger rinse application 562 would be collected in the condensation collection tray 168 located at the base of the air handler housing 112 and drain through the air handler drain pipe 162. During the rinse process, the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would direct the air conditioning thermostat 180 to maintain the air conditioning system 100 in an inactive state. Upon completion of the rinse process, the system returns the air conditioning system 100 to a standard operating mode.
Condensation generated during operation of the air conditioning air handler 110 is collected by a condensation collection element, such as a condensation collection tray 168. The collected condensation 801 (
The automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 includes a float valve actuator assembly 700 inserted in fluid communication between the air handler drain pipe 162 and a series of piping sections forming a downstream portion of an air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616. A flush fluid supply system (including an air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 which controls flow from a flush fluid supply source 850 of
In more detail, the float valve actuator assembly 700 includes a float assembly 730, 732, 734 configured to act as a valve (as shown) or actuate a valve (understood by description). The float assembly can include a float element 730, a float actuator column 732 extending radially or vertically upward from the float element 730, and a float actuator plate 734 adapted to engage with an operate a backflow actuated switch 740. A float valve seal 715 or in the illustrative example, a float valve ring seal 715 is supported by a float valve ring 714. The float valve ring 714 is a solid ring extending radially inward from an interior sidewall of the float valve actuator enclosure 710. A float valve ring seal 715 is formed circumscribing an interior circumference of the ring formed by the float valve ring 714. The float valve ring seal 715 and the float valve ring 714 are designed to create a fluid impervious seal when the float element 730 is seated against the float valve ring seal 715. A float valve lower control arm 716 and a float valve upper control arm 718 extend radially outward from the interior sidewall of the float valve actuator enclosure 710. A float valve lower control arm guide aperture 717 is formed through the float valve lower control arm 716. Similarly, a float valve upper control arm guide aperture 719 is formed through the float valve upper control arm 718. The float valve lower control arm guide aperture 717 and the float valve upper control arm guide aperture 719 are located to be in vertical registration with the float actuator column 732. It is preferred that the float valve lower control arm guide aperture 717, the float valve upper control arm guide aperture 719, and the float actuator column 732 be located centrally through an opening defined by the float valve ring seal 715. The float valve upper control arm 718 can be located above the air handler drain pipe 162, and provide a fluid impervious seal, protecting the backflow actuated switch 740 from contact with water.
A float body support member 712 can extend upward from a lower surface of the float valve actuator enclosure 710 (as shown) or radially inward from the interior sidewall of the float valve actuator enclosure 710. A float body support member contact surface 713 is formed about an upper surface of the float body support member 712, wherein the float body support member contact surface 713 is adapted to support the float element 730 during draining flow of collected condensation 801 from the air conditioning air handler 110, through the air handler drain pipe 162. The float body support member 712 would be designed to allow passage of the draining collected condensation 801 (provided from air handler condensation source flow 800) from the air handler drain pipe 162, through the float body support member 712 (air handler condensation float valve bypass flow 802) and to the air handler drain pipe 610.
During normal, unblocked flow, as illustrated in
The flush fluid supply pipe 770, 772 injects a flush fluid from a flush fluid supply line source 850 into the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616. An air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 is assembled between the upstream flush fluid supply pipe 770 and the downstream flush fluid supply pipe 772. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 controls the flow of the flush fluid 841 from the flush fluid supply line source 850 into the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616. An air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve operating element 762 of the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 is toggled between a closed configuration and an open configuration by a signal provided from an air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 to an air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve controller 764.
The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 controls the operation of the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 is similar to the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 includes a microprocessor 752, a non-volatile digital memory device 754 in digital signal communication with the microprocessor 752, and a clocking circuit 756 in digital signal communication with the microprocessor 752.
In one configuration, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can be in digital signal communication with the backflow actuated switch 740 to utilize the float valve actuator assembly 700 to determine when to utilize the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600. The backflow actuated switch 740 can be mounted to a float switch mount 744 within the float valve actuator enclosure 710, or external to the float valve actuator enclosure 710, with the float switch actuator arm 742 being in operational engagement with the float actuator plate 734. The float element 730 would rise upward when an air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 forms within the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616. The draining collected condensation 801 would back up, lifting the float element 730. The lifted float element 730 would engage with and move the float switch actuator arm 742, which would actuate the backflow actuated switch 740, toggling an electrical state from a closed circuit to an open circuit or an open circuit to a closed circuit. The change in state of the switch is monitored by the microprocessor 552 of the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550. The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would act accordingly.
In a second configuration, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can be in digital signal communication with the air handler float switch assembly 170 to determine when to utilize the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600. The air handler float switch assembly 170 comprises a float element 172 and a float operated switch 174. The float element 172 controls a state of the float operated switch 174. The float element 172 of the air handler float switch assembly 170 would rise as condensation is collected on the condensation collection tray 168 located at the base of the air conditioning air handler 110 and lower when collected condensation 801 is discharged from the condensation collection tray 168. The electrical state provided by the float operated switch 174 within the air handler float switch assembly 170 would toggle from a closed circuit to an open circuit or an open circuit to a closed circuit. The change in state of the float operated switch 174 is monitored by the microprocessor 552 of the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550. The air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 would act accordingly. In another configuration, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can be in digital signal communication with the air conditioning thermostat 180 to utilize cycles of the air conditioning system 100 to determine when to cycle the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600. In this configuration, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would operate in a manner similar to the way the air handler heat exchanger rinse system controller circuit 550 operates as described above.
In one example, the air handler float switch assembly 170 can be a RULE-A-MATIC® Bilge Pump Float Switch manufactured by RULE®. A second example is a float located within a substantially vertically oriented tube, such as a SAFE-T-SWITCH® manufactured by Rectorseal Corp.
An example of a method of operation of the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 is illustrated in
The automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 is shown having an air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 blocking any flow of draining collected condensation 801 in
The blocked flow (identified by an air handler condensation drain discharge flow stoppage 810, air handler condensation float valve bypass flow stoppage 812, air handler condensation pre-J trap drain flow stoppage 814, and the air handler condensation J trap drain flow stoppage 816) would collect the draining collected condensation 801 in the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614 upstream of the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899, as illustrated in
The collecting draining condensation 801 would raise the float element 730. The rising float element 730 would contact the float switch actuator arm 742 and actuate the float operated switch 740, toggling the associated electrical switch therein. The toggled electrical state of the float operated switch 740 would signal the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 to activate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve controller 764. The activated air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve controller 764 would rotate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve operating element 762 from a closed configuration (
Once the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 is actuated and placed into an open configuration (
The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can cycle the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 to determine if the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 has been dislodged. In a condition where flow from the flush supply line source flow 840 ceases and the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 remains, the entrapped volume of flush fluid 841 would retain the float element 730 in a sealed state, retaining the electrical state of the float operated switch 740. Alternatively, in a condition where flow from the flush supply line source flow 840 ceases and the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 is substantially dislodged, the entrapped volume of flush fluid 841 would flow outward from the downstream drain pipe section 616, removing the floating support of the float element 730, toggling the electrical state of the float operated switch 740. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would monitor the state of the float operated switch 740 to determine if the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 has been dislodged. If the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 has not been dislodged, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would re-actuate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760, opening the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve operating element 762 to repeat the flush cycle. If the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 has been dislodged, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would return to a blockage monitoring state.
The automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 can optionally include a chemical composition injection system 900, as illustrated in
An exemplary operation of the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 is outlined in a lair conditioning system 100 presented in
Upon an indication of an air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would send a signal to the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve controller 764 to actuate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760, causing the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve operating element 762 to toggle from a closed configuration (
When available, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would actuate the chemical composition injection flow control valve 960 (step 1134), dispensing a volume of flush assisting chemical composition 950 to combine with the flush fluid 841 to aid in dislodging and clearing the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can control the dispensing of the flush assisting chemical composition 950 over the entire flush cycle (step 1136), a portion of the flush cycle, over a predetermined time, to dispense a predetermined volume of flush assisting chemical composition 950, and the like. In a preferred operation, the chemical composition injection flow control valve 960 would dispense the flush assisting chemical composition 950 during an initial portion of a flush cycle and cease dispensing during a latter portion of the flush cycle, enabling the flush fluid 841 to rinse any residual flush aiding chemical composition from the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616.
The flow of the flush fluid 841 would apply a pressure against the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 to clear the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 from the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616 (step 1136), as shown in
An alternative operation of the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600, referenced as an air handler drain clog flush process 1102, is presented in
In one exemplary condition, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would activate the system based upon a predetermined number of operating cycles of the air conditioning system 100. The cycles would be identified by a communication link between the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 and the air conditioning thermostat 180. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can be programmed to activate the system 600 after each cycle, after every other cycle, after any predetermined quantity of cycles, or randomly. In a second exemplary condition, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would activate the system 600 based upon a predetermined time span, such as once a day, once every other day, once every predetermined number of days, once a week, once every two weeks, once a month, once every other month, randomly, or any other suitable setting. In a third exemplary condition, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would activate the system 600 based upon a predetermined number of operating cycles of the air conditioning system 100 and based upon a predetermined time span, whichever is shorter or whichever is longer, all dependent upon the user's desired settings.
The float valve actuator assembly 700 presents a first exemplary float valve actuator assembly. An alternative float valve actuator assembly is identified by reference numeral 1200 and illustration in
The float activated check valve and switch assembly 1200 includes a float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210, which includes a first coupler for connecting to the air handler drain pipe 162 and a float switch discharge coupler 1228 for coupling to the upstream drain connection pipe section 610. An enclosure discharge aperture 1216 is provided through a section of the float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210, the enclosure discharge aperture 1216 being in registration with the float switch discharge coupler 1228, for passing the collected condensation from air handler 801 into the upstream drain connection pipe section 610 and remaining portions of the condensation drain pipe assembly.
A float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 is slideably assembled within an interior of the float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210. The float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 includes a tubular sidewall extending between an actuator body switch control surface 1234 and an opposite lower end.
A actuator body inlet flow control aperture 1222 is formed through the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 and located in registration with the flow portion for the air handler drain pipe 162 enabling intake of the air handler condensation source flow 800 from the air handler 110 when the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 is located in an open flow position. An actuator body discharge flow aperture 1226 is formed through the lower end of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 and located in registration with the enclosure discharge aperture 1216 enabling the air handler condensation float valve bypass flow 802 (
The float activated check valve and switch assembly 1200 is designed where the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 slideably moves within the interior of the float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210 between a free flow position and a stopped flow position. The float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 can include a feature to deter rotation about a central, vertical axis. For example, a cross sectional shape of the tubular sidewall of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 can be non-circular in shape. In another arrangement, a tongue and groove combination can be employed between an interior surface of the float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210 and an exterior surface of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220, wherein the tongue and groove retain an orientation of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 respective to the float activated check valve and switch enclosure 1210. Alternatively, the actuator body inlet flow control aperture 1222 can be designed to substantially circumscribe the sidewall of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220, as illustrated in
A float element 1230 is internally carried by the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220. The float element 1230 can be fabricated of any buoyant material or arrangement, such as foam, entrapped air within an enclosed hollow body, or any other suitable buoyant material or arrangement. The float element 1230 is located within the interior of the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 where the float element 1230 would raise the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 in a condition where the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 is formed within the condensation drain piping, such as shown in
Function of the float activated check valve and switch assembly 1200 is presented in
This flow continues until an air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899, as illustrated in
Upon activation of the float operated switch 1240, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 toggles the configuration of the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760, allowing flush supply line upstream flow 842 to flow into the condensation drain plumbing, where the flush supply line downstream flow 843 passes through the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760. Since the flush supply line source flow 840 can only flow towards the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899, the flow of the flush supply line source flow 840 continues, becoming the flush post “J” trap drain flow 848. Pressure provided by the flush post “J” trap drain flow 848 dislodges the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899, causing the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 to preferably break up and drives the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 out from the condensation drain plumbing, exiting the drain pipe distal end 618, as illustrated in
The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can include instructions for a process of pulsing the flow through the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 by alternating the state of the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760. This would allow the collected fluid (both the collected condensation and the flush fluid) within the condensation drain plumbing to discharge in a condition where the air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 is removed from the condensation drain plumbing or at least no longer restricting flow through the condensation drain plumbing.
Alternatively, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 can be programmed to operate in accordance with any schedule, such as those described above. When using a schedule, the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would operate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760. In a condition where the condensation drain plumbing is clear, the flush fluid 850 would flow down the condensation drain plumbing. If the flush fluid 850 flows towards the air handler 110, the flow of the flush fluid 850 would create a buoyancy, raising the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220, and sealing flow from entering the air handler drain pipe 162. The air handler drain pipe flush supply flow controller circuit 750 would be programmed to deactivate the air handler drain pipe flush supply flow control valve 760 after a period of time or a reduction in a pressure. The fluid within the condensation drain plumbing would drain, removing the buoyancy and returning the float activated check valve and switch actuator body 1220 to a flow pass through arrangement.
The arrangement presented in
Although the disclosure defines several optional methods of operation, it is understood that any suitable method known by those skilled in the art can be employed to contribute to the heat exchanger rinse system 500 and/or automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600. For example, a flow meter can be placed at a drain pipe distal end 618 of the downstream drain pipe section 616 to determine if an air handler condensation drain pipe blockage 899 is present within the air handler drain pipe 610, 612, 614, 616. The float valve actuator assembly 700 can be replaced by a float switch activating an electrically operated valve or a check valve.
In one exemplary enhancement, the rinse additive provided by the rinse cleaning composition delivery system 530 can be scented, where the scent would then be disseminated through the air conditioning ducting 150.
In another exemplary configuration, the heat exchanger rinse system 500, the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600, and/or the scent dispersion system 200 can be integrated into the same air conditioning air handler 110. The rinse fluid and the flush fluid 841 can be supplied from the same source or different sources. The heat exchanger rinse system 500 and the automated air handler drain pipe flush system 600 can be programmed to operate in conjunction with one another or independent of one another.
The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary illustrations of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Many variations, combinations, modifications or equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all the embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
This Non-Provisional Utility Patent Application is: is a Continuation-In-Part, claiming the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/253,789, filed on Aug. 31, 2016 (scheduled to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 11,365,929 on Jun. 21, 2022), wherein U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/253,789 is a Continuation-In-Part, claiming the benefit of co-pending U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/329,189, filed on Dec. 16, 2011 (now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,435,550 on Sep. 6, 2016), wherein U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/329,189 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/424,614, filed on Dec. 17, 2010 (now expired), which is incorporated herein in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61424614 | Dec 2010 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15253789 | Aug 2016 | US |
| Child | 17845131 | US | |
| Parent | 13329189 | Dec 2011 | US |
| Child | 15253789 | US |
