Patent Application
20200173646
The invention relates to a system comprising a fan for ventilation of e.g. a room as well as to a method for creating an air flow in e.g. such room. Further, the invention relates to a computer program product for executing such method.
Ventilators or fans are known in the art. US2010/0226797, for instance, describes a bladeless fan assembly for creating an air current including a nozzle mounted on a base housing a device for creating an airflow. The nozzle includes an interior passage for receiving the air flow and a mouth for emitting the air flow. The nozzle defines, and extends about, an opening through which air from outside the fan assembly is drawn by the airflow emitted from the mouth. The nozzle also includes a heater for heating the air flow upstream of the mouth.
US2015022996A1 discloses an air conditioner having a fan and in front thereof an illumination base with a mounted lighting device.
Fan assemblies known in the art in general have relative large propellers. Such propellers are not always perceived as esthetically desired. Further, such propellers are large moving parts which limit the accessible space, thus e.g. limit the free space on a ceiling for other devices, such as lighting devices. Further, such moving propellers potentially pose a risk for humans.
Fan assemblies can be used for cooling, as the breeze or air flow(s) generated by such fan assemblies provide a cooling effect on humans. Some of the above described problems associated with fan assemblies may be overcome by using an air condition or climate control. However, a disadvantage of such solution is the relative high energy consumption.
Heaters can be provided as separate heaters which can be arranged on a floor or attached to a wall. For such heaters, an infrastructure must be available, such as electricity or piping for hot water.
Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative fan assembly, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks, and which especially substantially does not necessarily compete with the space desired for other (pendant) devices, such as luminaires. It is also an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative method to provide a flow of (warm) air in a space, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks, and which method especially also includes the option of providing lighting and/or air purification, wherein space and/or energy are economically used.
In a first aspect, the invention provides a system (“system”) comprising a fan assembly with a plurality of nozzle openings for creating air flows (also indicated as “flows”), the fan assembly configured to provide the air flows in at least two directions, even more especially at least two non-parallel directions.
Further, especially the system comprises a plurality of temperature control elements such as (one or more, especially a plurality) elements that can heat the air flow(s) and/or (one or more, especially a plurality) elements that can cool the air flow(s), such as one or more of Peltier elements, and other elements that can be used to actively cool air. Herein, the invention is further especially explained while referring to heating elements. However, the system may thus also comprise cooling elements or cooling and/or heating elements. Therefore, in embodiments the system may further comprise a plurality of heating elements, especially with each air flow having an associated heating element. Hence, the air flows have respective air flow temperatures. The air flow temperatures may be the same, but may also be different, during use of the system.
Especially, the at least two (or more) non-parallel directions (of two (or more) air flows) are configured within a virtual cone having an apex angle and having a virtual cone axis (“cone axis”), with the apex angle especially selected from the range of 10-170°, such as at least 20°, like at least 30°. Hence, especially the at least two air flows are mutually divergent.
Further, the system may especially further comprise a control system configured to control the air flows. Herein, controlling the air flows may in embodiments comprise controlling the respective air flow temperatures of the air flows. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments controlling the air flows comprises controlling one or more of a flow velocity and a flow rate of the air flows. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments controlling the air flows comprises controlling an apparent temperature. Such apparent temperature is perceived at a certain distance of the nozzle(s). The apparent temperature may be influenced by the temperature of the air flow as well as the air flow rate and/or velocity. The system further comprises a user interface for independently selecting the air flow temperatures of the air flows.
The system especially further comprises in embodiments a light source configured to generate light source light, which may optionally also be controlled by the control system.
Therefore, the invention may hereby realize a system (such as especially an apparatus), having an integrated luminaire and fan, especially air multiplier, which may e.g. be positioned in a horizontal plane, e.g. pendant, which may have an attractive appearance, which may cool both the luminaire and a human in the environment (especially with a guided powerful divergent air flow), and which may not have visible moving parts. The system may further provide various jets to different directions, which may especially independently be controlled. The system, especially with no visible moving parts, may be easy-to-clean and may be a safe product. The system may be configured to create direct- and/or indirect-illumination and may provide a powerful divergent air flow to cool human beings in the environment. However, alternatively, and even simultaneously in different directions the system may provide an air flow that is considered warm. Hence, in the same space, different people may experience different temperatures. Nevertheless, the space wherein the fan assembly is arranged may not substantially heat up or be cooled due to the warm air flows. Hence, in embodiments the system may not be configured to heat a room or other space, but essentially only to create one or more warm air flows. For instance, assuming the fan assembly may be configured to create all air flows at maximum capacity (of the fan assembly for creating the air flows) consume×Watt. The temperature control elements together, such as (all) the heating elements, at maximum power may consume at maximum 5*×Watt., such as at maximum 2*×Watt, like at maximum×Watt.
The system can provide an airflow with warm air to increase the temperature of the living space where people are located and improve the feeling for comfort and well-being. Providing segmentation of the affected areas and persons, with a warm- and cold-airflow, is one of the benefits of this invention compared to a conventional fan. In embodiments, the heater element can be positioned before or behind the fan. Preferably, it is positioned behind the fan to prevent warm air flowing through the fan and damaging that fan. Behind the fan it can be positioned between the fan and the nozzle opening, spread across the nozzle opening to create max surface (e.g. honeycomb shaped cells) or a combination of both positions.
In embodiments, the heating element(s) can also be spread across the inner ring of the multifunctional luminaire, so the flowing air out of the nozzle is heated.
In embodiments, to create a more effective way of warmth perception creation to the human body, the heat transfer can be pulsed. A sequence of short warmth pulses (by which the trigger is repeated and renewed) has a much larger warmth effect and that for such condition much lower temperature uplifts (in the range of about 1° C., such as equal to or smaller than about 1.5° C., like equal to or smaller than about 1° C.) may be required). Such embodiment can reduce the required energy consumption and will increase the perception of warmth.
The mutually divergent air flows may especially be realized by emitting the jets under an angle of at least 5°, even more especially at least 10°, such as in specific embodiments at least 20°, with respect to a central axis (or main axis) of the fan assembly or the cone axis, such as via an open area in the lighting appliance. The system may produce low audible noise. The infra structure of the energy network within a home, or other places, advantageously allows a combination of lighting and cooling of the persons in the environment. Especially, in countries where is often warm this is an interesting opportunity. The combination of lighting and cooling leads to the reduction of parts and space.
Hence, the invention provides a segmented warming luminaire with integrated air multiplier. Different segments may address different parts of a space. Hence, different people may experience different temperature sensations, such as from cooling (with an air flow) or heating with a heated air flow.
Hence, with the present invention the flows can independently be controlled. In specific embodiments, in the present invention also the temperature (or temperature profile) can independently be controlled (for the different flows). The flows are especially divergently directed.
The integrated luminaire and fan are herein also indicated as “apparatus”. Herein, the term “luminaire” may also refer to the combination of luminaire and fan, as the fan is integrated in the luminaire.
As indicated above, in embodiments controlling the air flows comprises controlling one or more of a flow velocity and a flow rate of the air flows. In specific embodiments, the individual flow velocities and/or flow rates of the respective air flows may be controlled. This can be achieved by applying different fans and/or using e.g. valves. Hence, a single flow generating device may be used for creating the different flows, e.g. in combination with valves, etc., for creating the respective air flows. Alternatively, a plurality of flow generating device may be applied for creating the respective flows. The flow velocity and/or flow rate of a flow may e.g. be controlled with the speed with which a fan or other device rotates (such as with a rotating blade) and/or vibrates, etc. Alternatively or additionally, also valves may be used. For instance, a valve may be used to control the flow velocity and/or flow rate (e.g. at constant power of the flow generating device). Optionally, a valve may also be used to control the flow velocity and/or flow rate buy controlling a by-pass (exit) bypassing the nozzle(s) used for the respective flow. A person skilled in the art knows how to control flow rate and/or flow velocity with the power of the flow generating device and optionally valves, and optionally other elements that may be used known to the person skilled in the art. Controlling the flow velocity and/or flow rate may e.g. include controlling the power provided to the flow generating device (e.g. from 0-100% of the maximum power). Controlling the flow velocity and/or flow rate may also include controlling the flow rate (and having the flow velocity depend on the flow rate and geometry of the system).
Hence, in specific embodiments the system may be configured to provide a plurality of air flows of which the respective flow velocities and/or flow rates may (individually) be controlled, allowing different types of air flows in different directions.
Especially, the fan assembly comprises one or more of a piezo fan, a synthetic jet generator, an ionic wind generator, or (other type of) bladeless fan, an impeller, etc., which are herein also indicated as “flow generating device”. Therefore, especially the fan assembly may include a bladeless fan. Hence, in embodiments the fan assembly may include one or more inlets to suck air and provide one or more flows with the fan assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the fan assembly includes a device that does not necessarily suck air, but creates the flow by e.g. a (repetitive) translation of an element (such as with a piezo fan or with a synthetic jet generator) or via a potential difference (such as with an ionic wind generator).
Hence, the fan assembly may especially include a plurality of (bladeless) fans, each configured to provide an air flow to one or more nozzle openings. One or more nozzle openings can thus provide different air flows in different directions. When a plurality of (bladeless) fans is used, then, these may be independently controlled by the control system. This may (even better) allow an individual controlling of the flow rate and/or flow velocities of the different air flows. In other embodiments, however, one or more (bladeless) fans are configured to provide an air flow that is distributed over two or more nozzle openings, for providing different air flows in different directions. In such embodiments, the use of e.g. valves may allow an individual controlling of the flow rate and/or flow velocities of the different air flows. In yet other embodiments, the one or more (bladeless) fans are configured to provide an air flow that is distributed over two or more nozzle openings, for providing different air flows in different directions, of which the flow rates and/or flow velocities may not be individually be controlled. Hence, the flow rate and/or flow velocity may in such embodiments essentially the same for all air flows.
As indicated above, controlling the air flows may in embodiments comprise controlling the respective air flow temperatures of the air flows. Especially, the system is configured to provide a plurality of air flows of which the respective temperatures may (individually) be controlled, allowing air flows with different temperatures in different directions. Hence, in specific embodiments jets with different temperatures may be provided.
To this end, the system in embodiments at least comprises a plurality of heating elements. The system may be configured to provide a plurality of n air flows, wherein n indicates the number of different flows. In such embodiments, the system may also comprise a plurality of n heating elements. During operation, the value n is especially at least 1. Hence, each heating element may be configured to control the temperature of a single air flow. However, in embodiments a heating element may also be configured to control the temperature of a subset of air flows. The term “heating element” may also refer to a plurality of heating elements. Especially, however, the system is configured to provide in a controlling mode air flows with different temperatures.
As indicated herein, the system may execute an action in a mode. The term “mode” may also be indicated as “controlling mode”. This does not exclude that the system may also be adapted for providing another controlling mode, or a plurality of other controlling modes. However, the control system is adapted to provide at least a controlling mode. Would other modes be available, the choice of such modes may especially be executed via a user interface, though other options, like executing a mode in dependence of a sensor signal or a (time) scheme may also be possible.
The heating elements are especially configured downstream of the source that generates the air flow. Hence, in embodiments the heating elements are configured downstream of the one or more (bladeless) fans. The heating elements may be configured upstream of the nozzle openings or in the nozzle openings or downstream of the nozzle openings. In general this will be the same for each air flow, though different arrangements may also be possible. Further, heating elements may be used that are configured upstream and in the nozzle opening, or in the nozzle opening and downstream thereof, etcetera. Also for each air flow a plurality of heating elements may be applied. Hence, in embodiments the heating elements are comprised by the nozzle openings or are configured downstream of the nozzle openings. The heating elements may especially include electrical conductors, such as electrically conductive wires or electrically conductive strips, of electrically conductive material that can be heated by providing an electrical current through the electrical conductors. One or more heating element can be provided as on part of a wall. One or more heating elements can be configured as flow through heating elements, such as wire mesh of electrically conductive material.
It is also possible to make use of the coanda effect, which is the tendency of a fluid flow to stay attached to a convex surface. Hence, in embodiments the nozzle opening and/or a surface downstream thereof have a convex surface. Such convex surface may comprise a heating element for heating one of the air flows. Of course, this may be applied for two or more of the plurality of air flows. Therefore, in embodiments downstream of one or more of the nozzle openings the fan assembly comprises one or more curved surfaces along which one or more of the air flows can flow, and wherein the one or more curved surfaces comprises one or more of the heating elements.
The heating element(s) may be covered with a coating. As indicated above, the different flows may have—in a controlling mode—different temperatures. The term “different temperature” may also refer to a different time dependence of the temperature. An air flow having a constant temperature may be experienced differently than an air flow having in time average the same temperature, but with a pulsed temperature profile. The profile may e.g. sinusoidal or block-wave, etc. Hence, different time dependencies of the temperature of different flows may also lead to air flows in different directions that provide another apparent temperature or feel temperature (in different directions). The outdoor apparent temperature is the temperature equivalent perceived by humans, caused by the combined effects of air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed. In indoor, the relative humidity may be considered essentially homogeneous in a space. However, controlling one or more of temperature of the air flow, the flow rate of the air flow and the flow velocity of the air flow, may allow controlling the apparent temperature (indoors). In this way, the system may be used (in a controlling mode) to provide different air flows in different directions with different apparent temperatures. Especially, the individual (apparent) temperature may be controlled with the heating elements.
The heating elements may thus in a controlling mode (also) be controlled in a pulsed way.
Therefore, in embodiments of the system, it may be possible to provide one or more air flows in a pulsed way. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments of the system it may be possible to control the temperature of the air flow to provide a pulsed temperature profile. The temperature may vary in time with respect to the temperature and/or with respect to the time the temperature is provided. With a pulsed temperature profile the peak-to-peak temperature amplitude (different between maximum and minimum temperature during the temperature variation in time) may be constant or vary, with a pulsed temperature profile the frequency may be constant or vary, etc.
Therefore, in an embodiment the control system is configured to provide in a controlling mode one or more pulsed air flows, wherein one or more of the air flow temperatures vary in time. Especially, one or more of the air flow temperatures (Ta, Tb, . . . ) vary in time with a frequency selected from the range of 1 s−1-1 min−1, such as 0.1 s−1-2 min−1, and with a (peak-to-peak) temperature amplitude selected from the range of 0.1-10° C., such as 0.2-5° C., like 0.5-5° C. For instance, (peak-to-peak) temperature amplitudes in the range of 0.2-1.5° C., like in the range of 0.2-1° C., may already be perceived as warm(er).
The air flow temperature may be controlled with the heating element temperature. Therefore, in embodiments one or more of the heating elements have temperatures varying in time with a frequency selected from the range of 1 s−1-1 min−1, such as 0.1 s−1-2 min−1, and with a (peak-to-peak) temperature amplitude selected from the range of 0.1-10° C., such as 0.2-5° C., 0.5-5° C.
The term air flow temperature may refer to a temperature of the air flow 30 cm downstream of the nozzle. As the jet may have a jet cross-section with different temperatures, it may refer to the highest temperature of the air flow (or jet) cross-section 30 cm downstream of the nozzle.
In yet a further embodiment, the system may further comprise a user interface for independently selecting the air flow temperatures of the air flows. Alternatively or additionally, the system may further comprise a user interface for independently selecting apparent temperatures of the air flows. This may allow users to indicate the temperature they desire to feel. On the basis of such selection, the system may provide the desired air flow. Such choice of an apparent temperature may include the use of the fan assembly in a pendant situation and between minimum and maximum distance of the user(s). Alternatively or additionally, the system may further comprise a user interface for independently selecting the temperatures of the heating elements for the (respective) air flows. Of course, in embodiments the user interface may also be configured for switching on or off, dim or boost (respective) air flows.
Examples of user interface devices include a manually actuated button, a display, a touch screen, a keypad, a voice activated input device, an audio output, an indicator (e.g., lights), a switch, a knob, a modem, and a networking card, among others. Especially, the user interface device may be configured to allow a user instruct the device or apparatus with which the user interface is functionally coupled by with the user interface is functionally comprised. The user interface may especially include a manually actuated button, a touch screen, a keypad, a voice activated input device, a switch, a knob, etc., and/or optionally a modem, and a networking card, etc. The user interface may comprise a graphical user interface. The term “user interface” may also refer to a remote user interface, such as a remote control. A remote control may be a separate dedicate device. However, a remote control may also be a device with an App configured to (at least) control the system or device or apparatus.
The system, such as via a user interface, may also allow selecting the air flow temperature out of a set of qualitative indications. These may be related to a setting of the parameters of the air flow(s) and/or temperature of the temperature element(s). The set of qualitative indications may in an embodiment include e.g. “cool” and “warm”, or “cooling” and “heating”. The set of qualitative indications may also include further choices, like e.g. “moderate cooling” or “moderate heating”. By controlling the temperature of the heating element, or in embodiments by controlling the pulsed temperature profile, or additionally or alternatively in specific embodiments by controlling one or more of flow rate and/or flow velocity, the air flow(s) can be provided that will be perceived in conformance with the qualitative indication chosen. Hence, a plurality of parameters may be chosen to control the (apparent) temperature (see also below). For instance, for heating control, the temperature of the heating element(s) may be controlled as well as the flow rate and/or flow velocity.
The user interface may also be configured for controlling the light source. Hence, in embodiments the control system may further be configured to control the light source).
Hence, during use of the system, the system may provide light and/or the system may provide one or more air flows. When one or more air flows are provided, one or more of such flows may be heated (with a temperature control element, such as a heating element) and/or one or more of such flows may be cooled (with a temperature control element, such as a cooling element). As indicated herein, the fan assembly especially comprises one or more heating elements. Hence, in the present invention the system may especially include a plurality of controlling modes, such as for providing light, for providing one or more air flows, for providing one or more temperature controlled air flows, etc.
As indicated above, in embodiments the system comprises a fan assembly and a light source. The former is configured for creating one or more, especially a plurality of air flows; the latter is especially configured to provide light source light, such as for illuminating a space (wherein the system is configured). In embodiments, the term “system” may especially refer to an apparatus. Hence, in specific embodiments the invention relates to a system comprising an apparatus, the apparatus comprising the fan assembly and the light source in an integrated unit.
The fan assembly especially has a plurality of nozzles for creating air flows. Each nozzle may include at least one nozzle opening. Hence, the plurality of nozzles comprises a plurality of nozzle openings. Therefore, in embodiments the system comprises a fan assembly with a plurality of nozzles for creating air flows, wherein the plurality of nozzles comprise a plurality of nozzle openings. With a plurality of nozzle openings, a plurality of air flows can be created. The system thus comprises a plurality of nozzle openings. Here, the term “plurality” refers to two or more, such as three or more, and especially at least four or more. For instance, would the system be pendant over a table, four air flows may be generated to four sides of a table (configured below the system).
As indicated above, the fan assembly is especially configured to provide air flows in at least two non-parallel directions. Note that when the system is configured to provide more than two air flows, it is not necessarily excluded that there are air flows with parallel or substantially parallel directions. However, from the more than two air flows, at least two are configured with non-parallel directions. Note that the system may in embodiments be configured to provide a plurality (n) of flows with a plurality (k) of non-parallel directions, wherein n is at least 2, wherein k is at least 2, and wherein especially k may be between 2 and n. Especially, n is at least 3, even more especially n is at least 4. Further, k is also at least 3, even more especially at least 4, respectively. Herein, “n” is further used to indicate the number of air flows.
Hence, the system is especially configured to provide two or more air flows with diverging directions. To this end, the system comprises a fan assembly with two or more nozzle openings (see also below). The phrase “air flows in at least two non-parallel directions” may thus especially imply that vectors indicating the directions of at least two air flows are configured non-parallel. Herein, non-parallel thus implies an angle larger than 0°. State of the art system, such as provided by Dyson seem to generate an air flow wherein within the air flow the direction of the air flow is substantially everywhere parallel. Therefore, the directions of the airflow within the flow can be configured within a virtual cylinder.
Herein, especially the at least two non-parallel directions are configured within a virtual cone having an apex angle selected from the range of 10-170° and having a cone axis. A cone is a three-dimensional geometric shape that tapers smoothly from a flat base to a point called the apex or vertex. The apex angle is the angle between the lines that define the apex. Now, this apex angle is selected from the range of 10-170°. Hence, in fact the at least two non-parallel directions are configured within a first virtual cone having an apex angle selected from the range of at least 10° and within a second virtual cone having an apex angle selected from the range of at maximum 170°. This is herein also defined as “the at least two non-parallel directions are configured within a virtual cone having an apex angle selected from the range of 10-170°”. As indicated above, the definition does not exclude that there may be flows provided outside this virtual cone, but at least two air flows are configured within this virtual cone. Again, especially a plurality of the air flows has directions within this virtual cone. With this definition, it is amongst others indicated that at least two flows are not parallel (lower limit of the apex cone is especially 10°) but also that at least two flow are not antiparallel (i.e. 180°) (upper limit of the apex cone is 170°). Hence, the phrase “air flows in at least two non-parallel directions” may thus also especially imply that at least two air flows do not have opposite directions. In general, all the air flows generated by the system will not provide a subset of airflows with opposite directions. However, in embodiments anti-parallel air flows may be generated with the system. For instance, a plurality of air flows may be generated within the above indicated virtual cone, which may e.g. allow the system to provide air flows in different direction in a direction of a table or a floor, etc., assuming a pendant configuration, but one or more other air flows may be generated in a direction of a ceiling.
Herein, the term “virtual cone” is applied, as the system itself does not need to have a conical shape. The system (or the apparatus or the housing) may substantially have any shape. However, the flow (mutually divergent) directions are defined with the means of the virtual cone. In embodiments, the system may be configured to provide two or more subsets of (mutually divergent) flows, with each subset with two or more flows of which at least two are defined with their mutually divergent flow directions relative to a virtual cone (as defined herein). Hence, in embodiments the term “virtual cone” may also refer to a plurality of virtual cones, wherein each virtual cone defines for a subset of (mutually divergent) flows the flow directions. Especially, the cone axes of such plurality of virtual cones are configured parallel. In yet other embodiments, the cone axes of two or more of such plurality of virtual cones are configured antiparallel.
In fact, the phrase “at least two non-parallel directions are configured within a virtual cone having an apex angle and having a cone axis, with the apex angle especially selected from the range of 10-170°” may also defined as the two directions confined by two virtual cones with cone axes coinciding (and pointing with the apex in the same direction), wherein a smaller virtual cone has an apex angle of at least 10° and with a larger virtual cone having an apex angle of at maximum 170°.
The system includes a fan assembly. The fan assembly may include a plurality of nozzles. Each nozzle may comprise one or more nozzle openings. Especially, each nozzle includes a single nozzle opening. The fan assembly is especially configured to provide jets of air. The fan assembly is especially configured to provide an air multiplying effect or air knife effect, for the at least two air flows. An air knife may consists of a high-intensity, uniform sheet of laminar airflow, sometimes known as streamline flow. Two or more of the air flows may be air knifes.
In specific embodiments, the nozzle openings have one or more (smallest) dimensions selected from a length, a width and a diameter in the range of 0.2-10 mm, especially 0.5-5 mm, such as 1-5 mm. Note that the nozzle openings are not necessarily round. Choosing one or more dimensions relatively small, such as 0.2-10 mm, like 0.2-5 mm, like 1-5 mm, an air flow with a jet character may be provided. Hence, there is at least a smallest dimension in the range of 0.2-10 mm. For instance, a slit with such width, but with a length of 10-100 cm may be applied. Hence, for non-circular nozzle openings not all dimensions are necessarily small. The total area provided by the nozzle openings (sum of cross sectional areas at the nozzle openings) may be at least 20 cm2, such as at least 40 cm2, like at least 50 cm2, such as in the range of 20-500 cm2, such as 20-250 cm2, like 50-150 cm2.
Further, especially the fan assembly comprises an air flow generating device, such as an impeller, configured to provide air flows with a high air flow and/or high air velocity. Especially, the fan assembly is configured to create air flows with a product of the air flow (m3/s) and the air velocity (m/s) of at least 0.05 m4/s2 through the nozzle openings, such as at least 0.1 m4/s2 through the nozzle openings, like at least 1 m4/s2 through the nozzle openings. Hence, the air flow(s) provided by all nozzle openings has a product of the air flow (m3/s) and the air velocity (m/s) of at least 0.05 m4/s2. Note that herein air flow in general refers to the flow of air, whereas in the air flow, as indicated in the preceding sentence, it also relates to a flow speed. Especially, the air flow generated by all nozzles is in the range of at least about 0.005-0.2 m3/s, especially −0.01-0.1 m3/s and/or the air velocity per nozzle is at least in the range of about 1-5 m/s, especially 3-30 m/s. Of course, during use one or more nozzle openings may not provide an air flow. Further, during use air flow and/or air velocity may also be reduced for one or more air flows. However, the fan assembly is at least able to create a product of the air flow (m3/s) and the air velocity (m/s) of at least 0.05 m4/s2 by all nozzle openings together.
Herein, air flow (m3/s) refers to “air flow rate” or “flow rate”. Herein, the velocity (m/s) refers to the “air flow velocity” or “flow velocity”.
With such air flows, a human may perceive the air flow as cooling (assuming the air flow is not heated). Hence, the system may e.g. be used for cooling purposes, like a state of the art fan. However, in contrast to state of the art fans, wherein rotating elements of the fan assembly may be visible to a user, such as a propeller or blades, in the present invention the air flow generating device, or at least the moving parts thereof, such as blades or a fan, is (are) hidden within the system. Hence, the air flow generating device may include e.g. an impeller. Hence, in specific embodiments, the fan assembly is configured to create air flows with a product of the air flow (m3/s) and the air velocity (m/s) of at least 0.05 m4/s2 through the nozzle openings, wherein the nozzle openings have one or more (smallest) dimensions selected from a length, a width and a diameter in the range of 0.2-10 mm, such as 0.5-10 mm, and wherein the fan assembly especially comprises one or more impellers. Hence, especially the product of the air flow (m3/s) and the air velocity (m/s) is an integrated value over all nozzle openings (that are configured to create the two or more mutually divergent air flows).
The fan assembly may also comprise an air inlet. The term “air inlet” may also refer to a plurality of air inlets. The flow generating device may especially suck air via the air inlet into the fan assembly and eject via a nozzle opening out of the fan assembly. The air inlet(s) and nozzle opening(s) may be in fluid communication via a duct. The fan assembly may include a plurality of ducts. One or more air inlets may be in communication with a plurality of nozzle openings and/or a plurality of air inlets may be in communication with one or more nozzle openings.
Herein the term “air flow generating device” may also refer to a plurality of air flow generating devices. Further, the term “impeller” may also refer to a plurality of impellers. Each nozzle may be functionally coupled to an impeller. However, an impeller may also serve two or more nozzles. Hence, the system may also include one or more valves, such as for controlling the air flows.
The fan assembly may be incorporated in a housing. The housing may comprise the nozzle openings for providing the air flows. Further, the housing may comprise one or more air inlets, with the fan assembly configured to suck air into the inlets and eject the air as air flows out of the nozzle outlets. In this way, moving parts within the housing may not be visible to a user. Especially, a single housing may include both the fan assembly and the light source, with the housing including one or more air inlets and the one or more nozzle openings, and the housing especially including a light exit window (for escape of light source light from the housing).
The system may include a switch, or a plurality of switches to control the flows, especially switches configured to selected between providing a flow and not providing a flow for one or more of the flows that can be generated with the system. Such switch(es) may be integrated in the system. Hence, the system may include an integrated circuit configured to allow a user select via switches to switch on or off one or more flows.
In further embodiments, however, the system may (also) include a control system configured to control the air flows. The term “control system” may especially refer to a device, or set of devices, that manages, commands, directs or regulates the behavior of another device or system. Here, the other device or system includes at least the fan assembly. The control system may include a remote control, configured to control the air flows. The control system, such as especially the remote control, may include a (graphical) user interface, especially configured to selected between providing a flow and not providing a flow for one or more of the flows that can be generated with the system, especially for a plurality of the flows. Further, the control system may also be configured to control one or more of the air flow and air velocity (see also below) of one or more of the flows, especially of at least two of the plurality of flows, such as all (n) air flows. In embodiments, the control system may be configured to control one or more of the air flow and air velocity in a continuous way. Hence, especially the control system is configured to control one or more of the flow velocity and flow rate of each of the at least two air flows escaping from the plurality of nozzle openings, such as at least two (of the plurality) of nozzle openings. Hence, in embodiments the system may also include also one or more of a mode wherein only light source light is provided, a mode wherein only one or more air flows are provided, a mode wherein substantially only air is purified. Hence, during use, for instance, only one nozzle may provide the air flow, though the system may also be set in a mode wherein the two or more mutually divergent air flows are provided.
In yet a further specific embodiment, the control system is configured to control the fan assembly and/or light source (see also below) as a function of an input signal of a user interface. This user interface may be integrated in an apparatus or device, such as in the housing, but may also be remote thereof (remote control; see also above). Hence, the user interface may in embodiments be integrated in an apparatus or device comprising the fan assembly and/or light source, but may in other embodiments be separate therefrom. The user interface may e.g. be a graphical user interface. Further, the user interface may be provided by an App for a Smartphone or other type of communication device, such as an android device, including an iPhone.
The control of both the light source and the fan assembly can be smart. Possible control functions for the light assembly may include one or more of intensity control, control of a direct and/or indirect beam (e.g. with a mirror by switching on and off different light sources), color control of one or more beams, etc. Further, possible control functions for the fan assembly may include one or more of speed of the jet, direction of the jet, etc. (see also above). For instance, the fan assembly may also include one or more valves configured to direct one or more air flows. The valves may be configured within a nozzle opening, upstream of a nozzle opening or downstream of a nozzle opening.
Therefore, the invention also provides (in a further aspect) a computer program product, optionally implemented on a record carrier (storage medium), which when run on a computer executes the method as described herein (see below) and/or can control the system as described herein. Especially, the invention provides a computer program product when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the system as defined herein, is capable of bringing about the method as defined herein.
The system may also include one or more sensors, such as motion sensor, with the control system configured to control the fan assembly and/or the light source (see also below) in dependence of a sensor signal of the sensor. The system may include a temperature sensor. The system may also include a dust particle sensor. The system may also include a humidity sensor. The system may also respond to a sensor signal from a sensor (such as one or more as herein described) configured external from the system. Therefore, in embodiments the system may further comprise a sensor, wherein the control system is especially configured to control one or more of (a) one or more of the air flows and (b) the light source light as function of a sensor signal of the sensor wherein the sensor is selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor, an ambient light sensor, a humidity sensor, and an air quality sensor, etc. The term “sensor” may also relate to a plurality of different sensors. With such embodiments, e.g. the flow may be controlled as function of temperature. When the temperature is high, the fan assembly may provide stronger flows (e.g. when a human is detected with a presence sensor). With such embodiments, e.g. the flow may be controlled as function of air quality. A flow may be switched on or increased when the air quality has to be improved. With the (optional) filter, particles in air may be filtered out of the air (by the recirculation of air (with the apparatus)). The sensor(s) may be comprised by the apparatus or may be configured remote thereof. When a plurality of (different) sensor is applied, one or more may be comprised by the apparatus and one or more may be configured remote from the apparatus
As indicated above, the system may further comprise a light source configured to generate light source light. The light source is especially configured to provide visible light, such as white light. The light source may also be configured to provide colored light. Further, the light source may be configured to provide light with a variable color and/or color temperature. The light source may have a variable intensity. As indicated above, when a control system is comprised by the system, the control system may also be configured to control the light source. Hence, a user may be able to control the different air flows and the light source. Hence, e.g. cooling with the air flow, light intensity, color of the light, etc. may in embodiments be controlled (via a user interface) with the control system.
The light source may especially include a solid state light source. The term “light source” may also refer to a plurality of light sources, such as 2-512 (solid state) LED light sources. Hence, the term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs. The light source may thermally be coupled with a heat sink, such as physically associated with the heat sink. The fan assembly may also cool the light source and/or heat sink. However, the air flows provided are especially substantially larger (than necessary for cooling the light source(s)) and (further) provided as mutually divergent air flows escaping from the system.
The system may include a light exit window, with the light source configured upstream of the light exit window. When a plurality of light sources is available, there may be the same number of light exit windows or less. A plurality of light sources may be configured upstream of a single light exit window, with light source light of the plurality of light sources transmittable through the (shared) light exit window. A light exit window comprises light transmissive material, transmissive for the light source light. Especially, the housing comprises one or more of such windows, with the light source(s) configured within the housing, especially for providing light source light to ambient of the system via the light exit window.
The terms “upstream” and “downstream” relate to an arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of the light from a light generating means (here the especially the light source), wherein relative to a first position within a beam of light from the light generating means, a second position in the beam of light closer to the light generating means is “upstream”, and a third position within the beam of light further away from the light generating means is “downstream”.
As indicated above, the system is especially configured to provide a plurality of air flows with air flow direction within a virtual cone. As also indicated above, the system may further include a light source configured to provide light source light. The light of the light source may emanate in a direction away from the system. The light source light may have an optical axis. In principle, the optical axis may have substantially any angle with the virtual cone axis. Even, the optical axis is not necessarily within the cone. Would the optical axis be within the cone, the system may especially be configured as downlighter. However, the light source may also provide light source light in a direction substantially perpendicular or opposite to at least two of the at least two (mutually divergent) air flows. For instance, the light source may be configured to provide light source light in a direction parallel to the cone axis, but without (direct) light in the cone. Such system may e.g. be used as uplighter.
Hence, in embodiments the light source light has an optical axis, and the system is configured to provide the light source light with the optical axis of the light source light and the cone axis having a mutual angle selected from the ranges of 0-80° (especially about 0°) and 100-180° (especially about 180°). In the former variant, the light source light is provided in the same (virtual) hemisphere as the air flows, even more especially in the same virtual cone; in the latter variant, the light source light is provided in another virtual hemisphere as the air flow, and is outside the virtual cone. The former variants may e.g. describe a downlighter (and also down(wards) fan); the latter variant may e.g. describe an uplighter (but down(wards) fan).
Hence, in embodiments the air flows and the light source light may be provided in a same hemisphere. In other embodiments, the air flows and the light source light may be provided in different hemispheres (such as an uplighter and a downwards directed fan (i.e. airflows directed downward)). However, the invention may also include embodiments wherein both the light source light and air flows may be directed upwards. In yet further embodiments, the airflows may be directed downwards and light source light is also directed downwards, but another lighting device provides light directed upwards. In yet further embodiments, the airflows may be directed upwards and light source light is also directed upwards, but another lighting device provides light directed downwards. In yet further embodiments, the airflows may be directed downwards, and a further airflow is also directed upwards, and optional light source light is directed downwards or upwards (or a plurality of light sources is configured light source light both downwards and upwards).
Therefore, in embodiments one or more air flows have directions that are not coaxial with the optical axis of the light source light, but have an angle with the optical axis of at least 5°, such as at least 10°, like at least 20°, but especially less than 90°, especially equal to or less than 85°. The angle of at least 5° may e.g. correspond to an apex angle of at 10° and the value of equal to or less than 85° may e.g. correspond to an apex angle of at maximum 170°.
Below, some further embodiments are described.
As mentioned above, the system is especially configured to provide at least two (divergent) air flows. Hence, in embodiments the system, or more especially the fan assembly, may comprise at least two nozzle(s) openings. In yet further embodiments, the system comprises at least three nozzle openings, wherein the fan assembly is configured to provide at least three air flows in at least three mutually non-parallel directions, and wherein the control system is configured to control one or more of the flow velocity and flow rate of each of the at least three air flows escaping from the at least three nozzle openings. With three air flows, one may provide more controllability to a user. For instance, only part of a room may be provided with a (cooling) breeze.
In specific embodiments the nozzle openings may be configured in a configuration that may be described as a (virtual) closed curve, such as a closed arc. The term “virtual closed curve” refers to a closed curve that is virtually present. Note again that a nozzle opening is not necessarily circular; a nozzle opening may also be rectangular. However, the nozzle opening may also have the shape of an arc segment, or of a segment of an elliptical arc, or other shape such as an oval arc. Such nozzle opening may be relatively narrow (see smallest dimension indicated above), but also be relative long, such as 10 cm or longer.
Hence, in embodiments two or more nozzles may be configured as a substantially closed curve. However, in yet other embodiments a plurality of nozzle openings is configured in a configuration that may be described as closed curve, where e.g. at least six circular nozzle openings are available. The virtual closed curve may be round, but is not necessarily round. In embodiments wherein the closed curve is round, an annular configuration may be obtained. Hence, in embodiments the plurality of nozzle openings are configured in an annular configuration. Therefore, in different ways a (kind of) ring shaped configuration of a plurality of nozzle openings is obtained. For instance, the light source may be configured such, that light source light escapes from at least part of the area enclosed by the (virtual) closed curve of nozzle openings, though alternatively or additionally, the light source may also be configured such that light source light escapes from a virtual curve enclosing the (virtual) closed curve of nozzle openings.
As indicated above, the system may especially have a light exit window from which light source light emanates (in a direction away from the light source). In specific embodiments, the light exit window may be configured in a configuration that may be described as a (virtual) closed curve. However, the light exit window may also have the shape of an arc segment, or of a segment of an elliptical arc, or other shape such as an oval arc. Hence, in embodiments, two or more light exit windows may be configured as a substantially closed curve. However, in yet other embodiments a plurality of light exit window s is configured in a configuration that may be described as closed curve, where e.g. at least six smaller light exit windows are available. The virtual closed curve may be round, but is not necessarily round. In embodiments wherein the closed curve is round, an annular configuration may be obtained. Hence, in embodiments the light source comprises an annular light exit window. Therefore, in different ways a (kind of) ring shaped configuration of a light exit window or a plurality of light exit windows is obtained. For instance, the light source may be configured such, that light source light escapes from at least part of the area enclosed by the (virtual) closed curve. For instance, the fan assembly may be configured such, that the air flows escape from at least part of the area enclosed by the (virtual) closed curve of the light exit window(s), though alternatively or additionally, the fan assembly may also be configured such that the air flows escape escapes from a virtual curve enclosing the (virtual) closed curve of light exit window(s).
Therefore, in embodiments (a) the plurality of nozzle openings may perimetrically (such as circumferentially) surround a light exit window, especially an annular light exit window, and/or the light source or (b) the plurality of nozzle openings are perimetrically (such as circumferentially) surrounded by a light exit window, especially an annular light exit window and/or the light source.
Note that different perimetrical configurations may be possible, such as annular, but also square, rectangular, triangular, etc. etc.
In further embodiments, the system is especially configured to provide at least two air flows in different directions with a mutual angle of at least 10° (smallest virtual cone apex angle), more especially at least 20°. Note that when a large number of air flows with different directions is generated, adjacent airflows may have mutual angles that are relatively small, whereas there are still at least two air flows, or even more than two air flows, that have mutual angles (or more especially their directions have mutual angles) that are larger than 10°, especially larger than 20°. Therefore, in embodiments the system may have a main axis, wherein the optical axis is especially configured parallel to the main axis, and wherein the fan assembly is configured to provide the air flows in at least two non-parallel directions having angles with the main axis selected from the ranges of at least 5°, even more especially at least 10°, such as in the range of 20−70°. Two mutually divergent beams each having an angle of 10° especially have a mutual angle of 20° (virtual apex angle of 20°).
In addition to the lighting functionality or alternative to the lighting functionality, the system may also include an air filter(ing) functionality. Hence, in specific embodiments the fan assembly comprises an air flow generating device (see also above), wherein the fan assembly comprises a duct for a fluid connection between an air inlet and one or more nozzle openings, wherein the duct comprises an air filter. At least part of the duct may be comprised by the nozzle. Hence, the system may include an flow generating device and an air filter. In this way, air quality in a space can be improved. Hence, the system may also be configured for air purification (and optional lighting).
As a relative high air flow and velocity are desirable, the filter may have the undesired effect that the flow and/or velocity are impeded. It surprisingly appears that the filter function may still work well, when the filter (cross-sectional area) is smaller than the duct (cross-sectional area). Such embodiment may allow relative high air flows and/or velocities, whereas still part of the air is filtered. As in a space, such as a room, the air circulates, after some time the air may be filtered well without (substantial) loss of the cooling function. Hence, in embodiments the air filter has an air filter cross-section, wherein the duct has a duct cross-section at a position where the air filter is configured, and wherein the filter cross-section and the duct cross-section have a ratio selected from the range of 0.3-0.98, such as 0.3-0.95. However, the ratio can also be 1 (no by-pass effect). Optionally, the ratio is controllable, such as with a valve, or with a filter configured as a valve. The control system may in embodiments also control the ratio, such as in dependence of a sensor signal, such as of an air quality sensor.
The system may especially be configured as pendant system. Hence, in embodiments the system is especially configured for suspension. Especially, the system may comprise a top part and a down part, wherein the light source is configured to provide the light source light propagating in a direction away from one or more of the top part and the down part, and wherein the fan assembly is configured to provide the air flows propagating in a direction away from the down part.
Hence, in embodiments the system, more especially the apparatus, is especially configured for suspension, defining a suspension axis extending in vertical direction, with the system, more especially the apparatus, issuing light upwards (meaning away from top part) and/or downwards (meaning away from down part), and air (essentially) only downwards.
With the system, it is possible to create unobtrusive air circulation (very) close to the location of human beings. Especially, this may be achieved by integrating the air circulation unit inside a system whereby the area of the outlet is substantially smaller than the area of the surface defined by the edges of the luminaire. Further, especially the system is designed as pendant. Hence, the system is especially be configured to be used as pendant. In embodiments, the outlet of the airflow(s) may be located at the periphery of the surface defined by the edges of the system (that is where the human beings may be expected to sit). Further, especially the air circulation unit is completely not visible from the outside; no rotating parts will substantially be visible for a human viewing the system when configured in (normal) use.
Yet further, the airflow may be substantially larger than needed for cooling the light sources. Therefore, especially the airflow is at least twenty times larger than needed for cooling of the light source, preferably at least fifty times larger. It appeared that the system according to the invention renders the advantage that this implements a breeze or air flow(s) generated by such fan assemblies which provide a cooling effect on humans, yet without disadvantage of known air condition and climate control systems of a relative high energy consumption.
In more detail, the airflow is substantially larger, i.e. at least 20, such as at least 50 times larger than needed for cooling the light sources, i.e. to keep the light sources at a temperature at which the light source on average reaches the useful lifetime indicated for/on the light source. Prolonged heat can significantly shorten the useful lifetime of many solid state light sources, such as LEDs. Higher ambient temperature leads to higher junction temperatures, which can increase the degradation rate of the LED junction element, possibly causing the light output of an LED to irreversibly decrease over the long term at a faster rate than at lower temperatures. Controlling the temperature of an LED is, therefore, one of the most important aspects of optimum performance of LED systems. For example, an increase in junction temperature from 115° C. to 125° C. may shorten the useful lifetime of the LED to about 70% of the nominal, indicated lifetime.
In specific embodiments, the system may have a filter function. The system may be indicated as luminaire and/or as fan and/or cooling device and/or as air filtration device (see also below).
Hence, amongst others the invention provides a lighting appliance with integrated fan assembly for illuminating directly and/or indirectly the environment and for creating an air current, e.g. to cool a human being in this environment. The lighting appliance may comprise at least one light source which may e.g. be mounted on a heatsink. The fan assembly comprises a wind engine, air ducts and one or more nozzles directed away from the center to realize (a) powerful airflow(s), e.g. to cool the human being in the environment. Especially, the fan assembly has no visible moving parts. Further, especially the jets may be emitted under a mutual angle of at least 10°, such as especially at least 20° with respect to a central axis of the fan assembly, for instance via an open area in the lighting appliances. The lighting appliance may especially be positioned in a horizontal plane, e.g. pendant, and can have at least two set of nozzles with different directions relative to the central axis, enabling selectively control of the jets. The light appliances with air multiplier may also comprise a filter module to realize air purification.
In yet a further aspect, the invention provides (also) a method for providing one or more of an air flow and light in a space, the method comprising providing one or more of (a) one or more air flows, and (b) light source light in a space, especially with the system as defined herein. As indicated above, the air flows may have respective air flow temperatures. The method may further comprise independently selecting the air flow temperatures of the air flows.
In yet a further embodiment, the invention provides (also) a method for providing an air flow in a space and optionally filtering air in the space, the method comprising providing one or more of the air flows, and optionally filtering with the herein described air filter, with the system as defined herein. Hence, in embodiments the system further comprises the air filter as described herein, wherein the method may (thus) further comprises filtering air in the space. Optionally, the system may also be applied for filtering of air only, with optionally the system not having a lighting function and/or not having a cooling function.
In specific embodiments, the airflow is at least twenty times larger than needed for cooling of the light source, preferably at least fifty times larger
The term space may for instance relate to a (part of) hospitality area, such as a restaurant, a hotel, a clinic, or a hospital, etc. The term “space” may also relate to (a part of) an office, a department store, a warehouse, a cinema, a church, a theatre, a library, etc. However, the term “space” also relate to (a part of) a working space in a vehicle, such as a cabin of a truck, a cabin of an air plane, a cabin of a vessel (ship), a cabin of a car, a cabin of a crane, a cabin of an engineering vehicle like a tractor, etc. The term “space” may also relate to (a part of) a working space, such as an office, a (production) plant, a power plant (like a nuclear power plant, a gas power plant, a coal power plant, etc.), etc. For instance, the term “space” may also relate to a control room, a security room, etc. The term space may also relate to a room in a home, such as in a house, an apartment, etc. In specific embodiments, the system is configured over a seating area. However, in other embodiments, the system is configured over a sleeping area, a working area, or a relaxing area, etc.
As indicated above, with the system a single electricity point in a ceiling may be used to provide a system having one or more functionalities, especially two or more functionalities selected from the group consisting of cooling, lighting and air filtering. Hence, in further embodiments the system may be configured pendant. Hence, in embodiments the product may be positioned in a horizontal plane, e.g. pendant, and can have (at least) two set of nozzles with different directions relative to the central axis, enabling selectively control of the jets.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:
The schematic drawings are not necessarily on scale.
Indications like “115a,115b, . . . ” indicate that at least two of such element may be available. Further, indications like “115a,115b, . . . ” indicate a plurality of the element 115, with the individual elements being indicated with 115a,115b, . . . .
During use, one or more air flows 111 may be generated. However, the system is configured to provide the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . in at least two non-parallel directions 112a, 112b, . . . . Though the system is configured to provide the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . in at least two non-parallel directions 112a, 112b, . . . , this does not imply that during use always all air flows are provided. For instance, one may switch between air flows, or reduce the number of air flows in a direction where no air flow is desired, etc. To that end the system may further include a control system (see also below).
The fan assembly 100 may include a plurality of nozzles 110, with the individual nozzles being indicted with references 110a, 110b, etc. Note that the air flow generating device (see also below) as well as the nozzles may substantially be enclosed by a housing 7, with only the nozzle openings 115 (optionally) visible. Here, the nozzle openings 115 are configured in a virtual closed arc, which may be round or oval. By way of example, six nozzle openings 115 are depicted. In this schematically depicted embodiment the plurality of nozzle openings 115a, 115b, . . . are configured in an annular configuration. The system may also comprise an inlet 116 (e.g. at the top of the system).
The nozzle openings 115 can substantially have any shape. Here, by way of example six nozzle openings 115 are depicted, which have an oval shape. In specific embodiments, the nozzle openings have one or more (smallest) dimensions selected from a length (L), a width W and a diameter in the range of 0.2-10 mm, especially 0.5-5 mm, such as 1-5 mm. Width W and length L are indicated in the drawing. The nozzle opening define a cross-sectional area. The total cross-sectional are for all nozzle openings 115 may be at least 20 cm2, such as even at least 50 cm2, to provide the desired flows.
In embodiments, the system 1 may further comprise a light source 10, such as a solid state light source, like a LED, configured to generate light source light 11. The light source light has an optical axis O. Here, the system 1 is configured as downlighter, though alternatively or additionally, the system 1 may also be configured as uplighter.
The at least two non-parallel directions 112a, 112b, . . . are configured within a virtual cone 30 having an apex angle α selected from the range of 10-170°, such as 20-120°, like 30-150°. A cone having a diameter twice as large as the length of the cone axis has a cone angle of 90°. The virtual cone further has a cone axis 31. The apex angle α can also be defined as a cone angle. The apex angle of the virtual cone 30 in
Note that here the optical axis O and the cone axis 31 are parallel in this schematically depicted embodiment. Even more, in this embodiment the optical axis O and the cone axis 31 (substantially) coincide.
The system 1, as schematically depicted here is configured for suspension (pendant). The system 1 may comprise a top part 3 and a down part 4. The light source 10 is configured to provide the light source light 11 propagating in a direction away from one or more of the top part 3 and the down part 4, here in a direction away from the down part 4. However, especially the fan assembly 130 is configured to provide the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . propagating in a direction away from the down part 4.
The system 1 may further include a control system 200 configured to control the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . . The control system may be integrated in the housing 7 (as schematically depicted in
The system 1 may have a main axis MA, especially when the device may have a cylindrical like shape or a conical like shape or a beam like shape. The main axis MA may especially coincide with at least one virtual cone 30.
The system, or more especially the device depicted that comprises the fan assembly 100 and the light source 10, as schematically depicted in
One may also state that the at least two non-parallel directions 112 of the air flows 111 are defined by a first virtual cone 30′ and a second virtual cone 30″, one having a cone apex α1, which has the herein indicated lower value of at least 10°, and one having a cone apex α2, which has the herein indicated upper value of 170°. The air flows 111 have directions 112 within these two cones 30′,30″. The virtual cones 30′ and 30″ share the cone axis 31. This is schematically indicated in
As the first virtual cone 30′ has (thus) an apex angle of (at least) 10°, the angle of the air flows 111 is thus at least 5° with the virtual cone axis 30, such as at least 10°. Therefore, especially, such as also depicted schematically in
Here, the system 1 has again a main axis MA. The optical axis O is configured parallel to the main axis MA. The fan assembly 100 is configured to provide the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . in at least two non-parallel directions 112a, 112b, . . . having (mutual) angles γ1, γ2, . . . with the main axis MA selected from the ranges of 5-85°, even more especially 10-80°, more especially selected from the ranges of 20-70°. As in this embodiment the main axis MA substantially coincide with the virtual cone axis 31, the values for γ and σ may be (substantially) equal.
Further, the system 1 is configured to provide the light source light 11 with the optical axis O and the cone axis 31 having a mutual angle β selected from the ranges of 0-80° and 100-180°. In
Reference 1100 indicates a luminaire with an integrated fan assembly. This may be part of the system 1, such as when the system further comprises a user interface, or this may in embodiments be the system 1 (when e.g. a user interface is integrated in the luminaire 1100).
In
As can be derived from e.g.
Cooling elements can be used to actively cool the air flow(s).
Referring to
Referring to
The system 1 can be used to illuminate a space, to provide one or more air flows in a space (such as for cooling), or to filter the air in the space. Especially, the system may thus be used for providing one or more of an air flow and light in a space 1000, the method comprising providing one or more of (a) one or more of the air flows 111a, 111b, . . . , and (b) the light source light 11 in the space 1000. This is schematically depicted in
The systems 1 shown in
The apparatus may in embodiments comprise a fan assembly and a light source. The apparatus is configured for creating a plurality of airflows to cool or heat the environment and to provide light to illuminate the space. The fan assembly has a plurality of nozzles for creating airflows. Each nozzle may include at least one nozzle opening. The direction of the airflow is configured within a virtual cylinder.
The apparatus may have a light exit window from which the light source light emanates in a direction away from the light source, e.g. downwards in a down lighter configuration.
The apparatus may preferably be positioned in a horizontal plane, e.g. pendant or ceiling version, and can have at least two set of nozzles with different directions relative to the central axis, enabling selectively control of the jets and airflows. If the apparatus is configured as a ceiling-version a distance between the apparatus and the ceiling has to be reserved to be able to suck in the air, or the apparatus itself has to implement an inlet volume itself.
The apparatus can also generate a warm airflow. To create the perception of a warm airflow, a temperature rise of e.g. about 5° C. should be realized compared to the body temperature. This temperature rise takes into account that the perception of the higher temperature is lowered because of the airflow (this airflow itself constituting in itself the cooling functionality). To increase the perception of the temperature rise the fan speed can be minimized. At a low speed the temperature drop caused by the flow is minimized and the heat transfer is increased because of the increase of the contact time of the air with the heater element. Further, by using a pulsed temperature profile the temperature difference can be minimized, e.g. up to about 2° C., or even up to 1.5° C., or even up to 1° C. Guided airflows can be spread across the apparatus. When the flows can independently be controlled, the characteristics of the various flows can be varied, e.g. high speed, low speed, warm air and cold air. The temperature of the airflow can be controlled by the power of the heater element and the speed of the fan.
For instance, ambient air may be heated with a block pulse with as base temperature the ambient temperature, and with a maximum temperature of 1° C. above, i.e. a peak-to-peak amplitude of 1° C. When a pulsed temperature profile is provided, such as e.g. sequentially 0.5 min. ambient temperature and 0.5 min. 1° C. above ambient temperature, a person may experience a warm air flow. Peak-to-peak amplitude is the change between peak (highest amplitude value) and trough (lowest amplitude value, which can be negative), which are in this example ambient +1° C. and ambient, respectively,
The heater element can also be positioned in the nozzle outlet, see
Alternatively or additionally, a flow through heating element 113 may be applied, comprising a plurality of electrically conductive wires or strips.
Providing segmentation of the affected areas and persons, with a warm airflow, is one of the benefits of this invention compared to a conventional fan. Airflows with air at different temperatures can be generated. This will optimize the feeling of comfort and well-being for individual people, with their preferred wishes.
The multifunctional luminaire with combined light function, air multiplier function (cooler or heater) and air purification function can be applied for both consumer- and professional-applications.
Examples of consumer applications: dining room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study. Examples of professional applications: lobby in hotel, waiting room, restaurants, canteens, etc. Additionally such set-up might be implemented in e.g. animal and horticulture applications.
In below table, parameters are indicated with which the apparent temperature can be controlled.
In alternative time embodiments, a cooling element or a temperature control element may be applied, wherein the latter may be used for cooling or heating.
Note that in embodiments for cooling the flow control parameters such as flow rate and/or flow velocity can be used. For heating, the temperature of the control element may be controlled as well as also the flow control parameters such as flow rate and/or flow velocity, as heating the flow with a lower flow rate and/or lower flow velocity may be experienced warmer than with a higher flow velocity and/or higher flow rate.
As indicated above, in yet other embodiments, the system comprises temperature control elements that can only cool, or comprises temperature elements that can cool and heat. Hence, the herein described embodiments and the attached claims may also related to systems that are able to actively cool (not only “cooling” by providing a flow).
Therefore, in an aspect the invention also provides a system comprising a fan assembly with a plurality of nozzle openings for creating air flows, the system further comprising a plurality of temperature control elements, wherein one or more temperature control elements can heat or cool, especially heat and cool, wherein the system is configured to provide the air flows in at least two non-parallel directions, with the air flows having respective air flow temperatures (which can thus individually be controlled), the system further comprising a control system configured to control the air flows, wherein controlling the air flows comprises controlling the respective air flow temperatures of the air flows and one or more of a flow velocity and a flow rate of the air flows, and the system further comprising a light source configured to generate light source light. In specific embodiments the at least two non-parallel directions are configured within a virtual cone having an apex angle selected from the range of 10-170° and having a cone axis (see also above).
As indicated above, in specific embodiments the air flow velocity and/or air flow rate may especially individually be controlled for the different air flows.
As indicated above, in specific embodiments the temperature of the air flows can individually be controlled (which does not exclude that there are controlling modes wherein all temperature are essentially the same, but which may at least include at least a controlling mode wherein two or more air flows have different air flow temperatures).
The term “substantially” herein, such as in “substantially all light” or in “substantially consists”, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”. The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term “comprising” may in an embodiment refer to “consisting of” but may in another embodiment also refer to “containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species”.
Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
The system, apparatus and devices herein are amongst others described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices in operation.
It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb “to comprise” and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.
The invention further applies to a device comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.
The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17186561.1 | Aug 2017 | EP | regional |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2018/071277 | 8/6/2018 | WO | 00 |
