MAKE UP AIR SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Abstract

Various embodiments provide a make-up air unit, comprising a first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path; a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path; a dehumidification unit disposed within the first path; an air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path, and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path; a first air outlet where the first path exits the make-up air unit; and a second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit; wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand; wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner; and wherein the first path is isolated from the third path.

Description

FIELD

Embodiments herein relate to systems and methods for make-up air.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, a make-up air unit is included having a first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path, a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path, a dehumidification unit disposed within the first path, an air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path, and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path, a first air outlet where the first path exits the make-up air unit, and a second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit, wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner, and wherein the first path is isolated from the third path.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner and the dehumidification unit are in a series configuration, such that air traveling on the first path that passes through the dehumidification unit later passes through a portion of the air conditioner.

In an embodiment, the unit can further include: a first drain pan disposed below the air conditioner and above the dehumidification unit, and a second drain pan disposed below the dehumidification unit.

In an embodiment, the first drain pan includes a drain connection and the second drain pan includes a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan and the drain connection of the second drain pan each extend in the same direction.

In an embodiment, the first drain pan includes a drain connection and the second drain pan includes a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan and the drain connection of the second drain pan are each the same size.

In an embodiment, the first drain pan includes a drain connection and the second drain pan includes a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan is bigger than the drain connection of the second drain pan.

In an embodiment, the air inlet includes a first louver for air entering the first path and a second louver for air entering the second path.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner includes an air conditioner refrigeration circuit can include an air conditioner evaporator coil disposed in the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path, an air conditioner condensing coil disposed in the second path, and an air conditioner compressor.

In an embodiment, the dehumidification unit includes a dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit can include a dehumidification unit evaporator coil disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path, a dehumidification unit condensing coil, and a dehumidification unit compressor.

In an embodiment, the dehumidification unit condensing coil is disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner includes an air conditioner fan configured to draw air across the air conditioner evaporator coil, wherein the dehumidification unit includes a dehumidification unit fan configured to draw air across the dehumidification unit evaporator coil.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner fan is larger than the dehumidification unit fan, such that the air conditioner evaporator coil is exposed to more air than the dehumidification unit evaporator coil.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner fan and the dehumidification unit fan are each variable, such that they can draw varying levels of airflow in their respective units.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner and the dehumidification unit each include a power connection.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner defines an outer perimeter footprint, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed within the area defined by the outer perimeter footprint.

In an embodiment, the air conditioner includes a first filter rack and a second filter rack in the first path, wherein the first filter rack is adjacent to the second filter rack, wherein the first filter rack has a different depth than a depth of the second filter rack.

In an embodiment, the dehumidification unit is disposed within the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.

In an embodiment, a building is included having a plurality of individually temperature controlled spaces that are isolated from each other, wherein each of the spaces includes a make-up air unit, is included having an first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path, a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path, a dehumidification unit disposed within the first path an air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path, a first air outlet, wherein the first path exits the make-up air unit, and a second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit, wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner.

In an embodiment, the plurality of spaces includes at least 50 spaces that are isolated from each other.

In an embodiment, a make-up air unit is included having an first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path, a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path, a dehumidification unit disposed within the first path an air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path, a first air outlet, wherein the first path exits the make-up air unit, a second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit, a first drain pan disposed below the air conditioner and above the dehumidification unit, and a second drain pan disposed below the dehumidification unit, wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner, wherein the air conditioner and dehumidification unit are in a series configuration, such that air traveling on the first path that passes through the dehumidification unit later passes through a portion of the air conditioner, wherein the first drain pan includes a drain connection and the second drain pan includes a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan is bigger than the drain connection of the second drain pan, and wherein the dehumidification unit includes a refrigeration circuit can include an evaporator coil disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path, a condensing coil, and a compressor, wherein the condensing coil of the dehumidification unit is disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.

This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with the following figures (FIGS.), in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a dehumidification unit in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a dehumidification unit in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 6 is a back view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 12 is an airflow schematic of the make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 13 is a partial airflow schematic of the make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 14 is a partial airflow schematic of the make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 15 is a partial airflow schematic of the make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 16 is a partial airflow schematic of the make-up air system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 17 is a top view of the dehumidification unit in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 18 is a schematic of a building in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 19 is a schematic of a building in accordance with various embodiments herein.

While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particular aspects described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are various systems and methods for providing clean and comfortable indoor spaces. In some examples, a building can have a plurality of isolated spaces, such as rooms. Each of the isolated spaces can have its own dedicated make-up air unit that draws fresh outdoor air into the space and conditions recirculated air. In many traditional buildings, a central dedicated outdoor air system draws in fresh air for the building. The fresh air is then ducted into each of the rooms. Although providing make-up air units as disclosed herein can increase upfront costs due to additional wiring and units, providing individual make-up air units can lead to long-term savings compared to other dedicated outdoor air systems, Vertical Terminal Air Conditioners (hereinafter “VTAC”), or Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (hereinafter “PTAC”) with integrated dehumidifying alternatives. The systems and methods disclosed herein can also provide for individual spaces to be controlled differently, such as some rooms drawing in fresh outdoor air and other rooms only recirculating indoor air. Each of the rooms being isolated from one and other, without a central air supply or recirculation air supply being provided to each room can reduce the chances of cross-contamination between the rooms.

Various embodiments disclosed herein provide a make-up air system that can recirculate air, cool air, heat air, draw outdoor air, and dehumidify air for a given indoor space. In some embodiments, the make-up air unit can include an air conditioner similar to a VTAC or PTAC. The make-up air unit can further include a dehumidifying unit. The dehumidifying unit can be configured to sit below the air conditioner or can be configured as a stand to support the air conditioner.

Make-Up Air Unit

Referring now to FIG. 1, a cross-sectional view of a make-up air unit 100 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 1 shows a make-up air unit 100. The make-up air unit 100 includes an air conditioner 102. The make-up air unit 100 also includes a dehumidification unit 104.

In some embodiments, the make-up air unit 100 can also include a stand 106. In some embodiments, the stand 106 can be integral with the housing of the dehumidification unit 104. The stand 106 can support the air conditioner 102. The air conditioner 102 can be disposed on the stand 106. In some embodiments, the stand 106 can be integral with the housing of the air conditioner 102.

The make-up air unit 100 also includes a first air inlet 128, such as an outdoor air inlet. The first air inlet 128 can be an inlet for fresh outdoor air. The first air inlet 128 can include a dehumidification inlet 132 and a condenser inlet 130. In various embodiments, the dehumidification inlet 132 can be isolated from the condenser inlet 130, such as air that enters the dehumidification inlet 132 does not pass through the condenser coil 112 of the air conditioner 102. The make-up air unit 100 also includes a condenser outlet 134.

The make-up air unit 100 can also include a louver 136, such as an outdoor louver. In various embodiments, the louver 136 can include a plurality of horizontal slanted apertures, such as to allow air to enter and to substantially prevent water to enter. In some embodiments, the louver 136 can extend over the dehumidification inlet 132 and the condenser inlet 130. In some embodiments, the louver 136 can extend over the dehumidification unit inlet 132, the condenser inlet 130, and the condenser outlet 134. In various embodiments, the air inlet can include a first louver for air entering the first path and a second louver for air entering the second path.

The make-up air unit 100 can also include a second air inlet 138, such as a return air inlet. The make-up air unit 100 can include a first air outlet 140, such as a supply air outlet.

In various embodiments, the make-up air unit 100 can include a first air inlet 128 and a second air inlet 138. The first air inlet 128 can define a portion of a first path (described further below) and a portion of a second path (described further below). The second air inlet 138 can define at least a portion of a third path (described further below) that joins with the first path. The dehumidification unit 104 can be disposed within the first path. At least a portion of the air conditioner 102 can be disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path. Further, a portion of the air conditioner 102 can be disposed within the second path (described further below). The first path and the third path can be isolated from the second path.

The air conditioner 102 can include an air conditioner refrigeration circuit 107. The air conditioner 102 can include a condenser fan 114 disposed within the second path. The condenser fan 114 can be configured to draw outdoor air in through the condenser inlet 130, across the condenser coil 112, and out the condenser outlet 134. The air conditioner 102 can also include a supply fan 116. The air conditioner 102 can include a filter rack to hold filters 118. The air conditioner 102 can also include a drain pan and an air conditioner drain 142 can be disposed within the drain pan.

The air conditioner refrigeration circuit 107 can include an evaporator coil 108, a heating element 110, a compressor, an expansion valve, a condenser coil 112, and refrigeration piping to link the components. The evaporator coil 108 and the heating element 110 can be disposed within the first path. The heating element 110 can include an electric heating coil, a hot water coil, or other heating coils.

The dehumidification unit 104 can include a refrigeration circuit 119, a filter rack 124, and an outside air fan 126. The dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit 119 can include an evaporator coil 120 and a condenser coil 122. The dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit 119 also includes a dehumidification unit condenser coil 122. In various embodiments, the dehumidification unit 104 can include a drain pan with a drain 144. The drain pan can be disposed below the evaporator coil 120.

In various embodiments, the make-up air unit 100 can include a first drain pan disposed below the air conditioner 102 and above the dehumidification unit 104, and a second drain pan disposed below the dehumidification unit 104. The first drain pan can include drain 142 and the second drain pan can include drain 144. In some embodiments, the drain 142 and the drain 144 can be the same size. In some embodiments, the drain 142 can be larger than the drain 144, such as having a larger diameter. For example, in one embodiment, the drain 142 has a ¾ inch diameter and the drain 144 has a ½ inch diameter. In some embodiments, the drain 142 and the drain 144 can extend in the same direction, such as to both generally point in a common direction.

In various embodiments, the fan 116 of the air conditioner 102 can be larger than the fan 126 of the dehumidification unit 104, such that the evaporator coil 108 of the air conditioner 102 can be exposed to more air than the evaporator coil 120 of the dehumidification unit 104. In various embodiments, the fan 116 of the air conditioner 102 and the fan 126 of the dehumidification unit 104 are each variable, such that they can draw varying levels of airflow in their respective units. In various embodiments, the fan 116 of the air conditioner 102 and the fan 126 of the dehumidification unit 104 are each two speed fans. In various embodiments, the air conditioner 102 and the dehumidification unit 104 each comprise a separate power connection.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner 102 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The make-up air unit 100 includes an air conditioner 102. In some embodiments, the air conditioner 102 includes a stand 106. The air conditioner 102 includes an air conditioner refrigeration circuit 107. The refrigeration circuit 107 can include an evaporator coil 108 and a condenser coil 112. The condenser coil 112 can be isolated from the evaporator coil 108, such that air that passed through the condenser coil 112 is not exposed to the evaporator coil 108.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration circuit 107 can include the heating element 110. In other embodiments, the heating element 110 is separate from the refrigeration circuit 107.

The air conditioner 102 also includes a condenser fan 114. The air conditioner 102 also includes a supply fan 116. The air conditioner 102 also includes a filter rack 118 in the first path (described further below). The air conditioner 102 can include a drain pan with a drain 142.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view of a dehumidification unit 104 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The make-up air unit 100 includes a dehumidification unit 104 and ducting from the dehumidification unit inlet 132 to the filter rack 124. The dehumidification unit 104 includes a dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit 119. The dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit 119 can include a compressor, an evaporator coil 120, a condenser coil 122, and refrigeration piping. The dehumidification unit 104 can also include an outside air fan 126, which can be configured to draw outside air into the dehumidification unit 104.

The dehumidification unit 104 also includes a dehumidification unit filter rack 124. The filter rack 124 can include a first filter rack 346 and a second filter rack 348. The first filter rack 346 and the second filter rack 348 can be different sizes or different filter efficiencies, such as the first filter rack 346 configured to retain filters of a minimum filter efficiency reporting value of MERV 7-8 and the second filter rack 348 can be configured to retain filters that are MERV 11-13. In various embodiments, the first filter rack 346 can be configured to retain filters of a first thickness or depth and the second filter rack 348 can be configured to retain filters of a second thickness or depth. In some embodiments, the first thickness can be less than the second thickness.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-10 various views of a dehumidification unit 104 are shown. FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a dehumidification unit 104 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the dehumidification unit. FIG. 6 shows a back view of the dehumidification unit. FIG. 7 shows a front view of the dehumidification unit. FIGS. 8 and 9 show a side views of the dehumidification unit. FIG. 10 is a top view of the dehumidification unit shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with various embodiments herein.

As discussed above a make-up air unit 100 can include a dehumidification unit 104. The dehumidification unit 104 can include a housing 450. In some embodiments, the housing 450 can also include the stand 106. The dehumidification unit 104 also includes an inlet 452 and an outlet 454. Air can be ducted to the inlet 452 from the dehumidification unit inlet 132 of the first air inlet 128. Air from the outlet 454 can proceed along the first path 1156 shown in FIG. 11 and out the supply air outlet 140.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a perspective view of the dehumidification unit 104 shown in FIG. 4 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. A make-up air unit (not shown in this view) includes a dehumidification unit 104. The dehumidification unit 104 includes a dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit 119. The dehumidification unit 104 also includes a dehumidification unit filter 124. The dehumidification unit 104 also includes a housing 450. The dehumidification unit 104 also includes an inlet 452. The dehumidification unit 104 also includes an outlet 454.

FIG. 10 shows a top view of the dehumidification unit 104. As mentioned above, the dehumidification unit 104 can include a refrigeration circuit 119. In various embodiments, the housing 450 can include a refrigeration compartment 1082 or vestibule. The refrigeration compartment 1082 can be isolated or outside of the airflow through the make-up air unit 100. Various components of the refrigeration circuit 119 can be disposed within the refrigeration compartment 1082, such as the compressor.

Airflows

Referring now to FIGS. 11-16 various airflow schematics for the make-up air unit 100 are shown in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a make-up air unit 100. FIG. 11 further shows the first air path 1156, the second air path 1162, and the third air path 1164 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The make-up air unit 100 can define pathways for the first air path 1156, the second air path 1162, and the third air path 1164. The first air path 1156 can extend from a start of the first path 1158 to the end of the first path 1160. In some embodiments, the start of the first path 1158 is at the dehumidification unit inlet 13, and the end of the first path 1160 is at the supply air outlet 140. In some embodiments, the start of the second path 1162 is at the condenser inlet 130 and the end of the second path 1162 is at the condenser outlet 134. In some embodiments, the start of the third path 1164 is at the second air inlet 138 or the return air inlet. In some embodiments, the end of the third path 1164 is where the third path 1164 meets with the first path 1156.

Referring now to FIG. 12, an airflow schematic of the make-up air system is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. In various embodiments, the first path 1156 includes a first portion 1266 and a second portion 1268. The first portion 1266 can extend from the start of the first path 1158 to where the third path 1164 meets with the first path 1158. The second portion 1268 can extend from where the third path 1164 meets with the first path 1158 to the end of the first path 1160. In various embodiments, the air conditioner 102 and dehumidification unit 104 are in a series configuration, such that air traveling on the first path 1156 that passes through the dehumidification unit 104 later passes through a portion of the air conditioner 102.

In various embodiments, the dehumidification unit 104 can be disposed within the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 upstream of where the third path 1164 joins the first path 1156. In various embodiments, the air conditioner 102 can be disposed within the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 downstream of where the third path 1164 joins the first path 1156.

Referring now to FIG. 13, an airflow schematic depicting the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can pass through the dehumidification unit 104, such as through the filters 124, the evaporator coil 120, and the condenser coil 122.

In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 5 cubic feet per minute (CFM). In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 10 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 15 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 20 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 25 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path can be at least 1156 30 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 35 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 40 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 45 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be at least 50 CFM.

In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 100 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 90 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 80 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 70 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 60 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 50 CFM. It should be understood that the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156 can be within a range of any of the upper bounds and any of the lower bounds listed above. It should also be understood that in some scenarios, there can be no airflow along the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156, such as when the make-up air unit 100 is recirculating indoor or return air.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an airflow schematic depicting the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can pass through the air conditioner 102, such as through the filters 118, the evaporator coil 108, and the heating element 110.

In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 400 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 500 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 600 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 700 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 800 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 900 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 1000 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 1100 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be at least 1200 CFM.

In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1700 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1600 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1500 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1400 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1300 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1200 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1100 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 1000 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be no more than 900 CFM. In some embodiments, the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path can be no more than 800 CFM. It should be understood that the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 can be within a range of any of the upper bounds and any of the lower bounds listed above.

Referring now to FIG. 15, an airflow schematic depicting the third path 1164 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The third path 1164 can include return air, such as from the space that the supply air is directed to. The airflow of the third path 1164 can be equivalent to the airflow of the second portion 1268 of the first path 1156 minus the airflow of the first portion 1266 of the first path 1156. In some embodiments, at least 98% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 97% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 96% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 90% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 80% of the supply air is from the third path 1164. In some embodiments, at least 75% of the supply air is from the third path 1164.

Referring now to FIG. 16, an airflow schematic depicting the second path 1162 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The second path 1162 can pass through the condenser coil 112 of the air conditioner 102. The second path 1162 can be isolated from the first path 1156. The second path 1162 can enter the make-up air unit 100 through the condenser inlet 130 and can exit through the condenser outlet 134.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a top view of the dehumidification unit 104 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 17 also shows an outer perimeter 1770 of the air conditioner 102. In various embodiments, the air conditioner 102 defines an outer perimeter 1770, wherein the dehumidification unit 104 can be disposed within the area defined by the outer perimeter 1770. In various embodiments, the dehumidification unit 104 can entirely fit within the outer perimeter 1770 of the air conditioner 102. It should be understood that connections, such as ducting, power connections, and drain connections can extend beyond the outer perimeter 1770. A make-up air unit (not shown in this view) includes a dehumidification unit 104.

The outer perimeter footprint 1770 includes a width 1772. The outer perimeter footprint 1770 also includes a depth 1774. In various embodiments, the width 1772 can be at least 23 inches and not more than 50 inches. In various embodiments, the depth 1774 can be at least 23 inches and not more than 40 inches.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-19, schematics of a building 1876 are shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the building 1876 can be a hotel or a multi-tenant residential building. In various embodiments, the building 1876 can include a plurality of spaces 1878 or rooms, such as a plurality of individually temperature controlled spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other. Each of the spaces 1878 can be isolated from each other, such that they do not share the same supply air. Each of the spaces 1878 can include its own temperature setting and heating, cooling, and dehumidification demands Each of the spaces 1878 can include a make-up air unit 100. The building 1876 can also include common areas 1880, such as hallways or a lobby. In various embodiments, the common areas 1880 are heated, cooled, or dehumidified with a central or main heating and cooling system.

In some embodiments, the building 1876 can include at least 50 spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other. In some embodiments, the building 1876 can include at least 75 spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other. In some embodiments, the building 1878 can include at least 90 spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other. In some embodiments, the building 1876 can include at least 100 spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other. In some embodiments, the building 1876 can include at least 144 spaces 1878 that are isolated from each other.

As shown in FIG. 18, in some embodiments, each of the spaces 1878 can be identical. As shown in FIG. 19, in some embodiments, adjacent spaces 1878 can be configured to have the make-up air units 100 aligned or next to each other. In some embodiments, make-up air units 100 that are next to each other can share a common outdoor air louver or a common maintenance access.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

As used herein, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints shall include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 2 to 8 includes 2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

The headings used herein are provided for consistency with suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not be viewed to limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. As an example, although the headings refer to a “Field,” such claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. Further, a description of a technology in the “Background” is not an admission that technology is prior art to any invention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as a characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued claims.

The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices. As such, aspects have been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope herein.

Claims

1. A make-up air unit, comprising: a first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path;a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path;a dehumidification unit disposed within the first path;an air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path, and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path;a first air outlet where the first path exits the make-up air unit; anda second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit;wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand;wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner; andwherein the first path is isolated from the third path.

2. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner and the dehumidification unit are in a series configuration, such that air traveling on the first path that passes through the dehumidification unit later passes through a portion of the air conditioner.

3. The make-up air unit of claim 1, further comprising: a first drain pan disposed below the air conditioner and above the dehumidification unit, anda second drain pan disposed below the dehumidification unit.

4. The make-up air unit of claim 3, wherein the first drain pan comprises a drain connection and the second drain pan comprises a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan and the drain connection of the second drain pan each extend in the same direction.

5. The make-up air unit of claim 3, wherein the first drain pan comprises a drain connection and the second drain pan comprises a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan and the drain connection of the second drain pan are each the same size.

6. The make-up air unit of claim 3, wherein the first drain pan comprises a drain connection and the second drain pan comprises a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan is bigger than the drain connection of the second drain pan.

7. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air inlet comprises a first louver for air entering the first path and a second louver for air entering the second path.

8. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner comprises an air conditioner refrigeration circuit comprising an air conditioner evaporator coil disposed in the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path, an air conditioner condensing coil disposed in the second path, and an air conditioner compressor.

9. The make-up air unit of claim 8, wherein the dehumidification unit comprises a dehumidification unit refrigeration circuit comprising a dehumidification unit evaporator coil disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path, a dehumidification unit condensing coil, and a dehumidification unit compressor.

10. The make-up air unit of claim 9, wherein the dehumidification unit condensing coil is disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.

11. The make-up air unit of claim 10, wherein the air conditioner comprises an air conditioner fan configured to draw air across the air conditioner evaporator coil, wherein the dehumidification unit comprises a dehumidification unit fan configured to draw air across the dehumidification unit evaporator coil.

12. The make-up air unit of claim 11, wherein the air conditioner fan is larger than the dehumidification unit fan, such that the air conditioner evaporator coil is exposed to more air than the dehumidification unit evaporator coil.

13. The make-up air unit of claim 12, wherein the air conditioner fan and the dehumidification unit fan are each variable, such that they can draw varying levels of airflow in their respective units.

14. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner and the dehumidification unit each comprise a power connection.

15. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner defines an outer perimeter footprint, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed within the area defined by the outer perimeter footprint.

16. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner comprises a first filter rack and a second filter rack in the first path, wherein the first filter rack is adjacent to the second filter rack, wherein the first filter rack has a different depth than a depth of the second filter rack.

17. The make-up air unit of claim 1, wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed within the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.

18. A building, comprising: a plurality of individually temperature controlled spaces that are isolated from each other;wherein each of the spaces comprises a make-up air unit, comprising: an first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path;a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path;a dehumidification unit disposed within the first pathan air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path;a first air outlet, wherein the first path exits the make-up air unit; anda second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit;wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand;wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner.

19. The building of claim 18, wherein the plurality of spaces comprises at least 50 spaces that are isolated from each other.

20. A make-up air unit, comprising: an first air inlet defining a portion of a first path and a portion of a second path;a second air inlet defining a third path that joins with the first path;a dehumidification unit disposed within the first pathan air conditioner with a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the first path downstream of where the third path joins the first path and a portion of the air conditioner disposed within the third path;a first air outlet, wherein the first path exits the make-up air unit;a second air outlet wherein the second path exits the make-up air unit;a first drain pan disposed below the air conditioner and above the dehumidification unit; anda second drain pan disposed below the dehumidification unit;wherein the air conditioner is disposed on a stand;wherein the dehumidification unit is disposed below the air conditioner;wherein the air conditioner and dehumidification unit are in a series configuration, such that air traveling on the first path that passes through the dehumidification unit later passes through a portion of the air conditioner;wherein the first drain pan comprises a drain connection and the second drain pan comprises a drain connection, wherein the drain connection of the first drain pan is bigger than the drain connection of the second drain pan; andwherein the dehumidification unit comprises a refrigeration circuit comprising an evaporator coil disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path, a condensing coil, and a compressor, wherein the condensing coil of the dehumidification unit is disposed in the first path upstream of where the third path joins the first path.