Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to climate control systems and particularly to an intelligent fan network system with networked fans.
Description of Related Art
[002] Fans play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and conducive environment in various settings such as classrooms, boardrooms, and collaborative workspaces. They facilitate air circulation, which helps regulate temperature and humidity levels, removes stale air, and distributes fresh air throughout the space. This not only enhances the comfort of occupants but also contributes to their overall well-being and productivity.
[003] In these collaborative settings, a need for multiple fans arises due to several factors. First, a size and a layout of spaces often require multiple points of air circulation to ensure consistent airflow and temperature distribution across different areas. Additionally, occupancy levels may vary, with certain areas experiencing higher heat loads or humidity levels than others, necessitating targeted airflow to address specific comfort needs.
[004] However, operations of multiple fans in these settings can pose challenges when they are not coordinated or synchronized. Inconsistencies in fan operation can lead to uneven airflow patterns, temperature fluctuations, and inefficient energy usage. Moreover, manual control of individual fans can be cumbersome and impractical, especially in large or busy environments, and result in suboptimal comfort conditions for occupants.
[005] Therefore, there is a need for an intelligent fan network system that can effectively address these challenges by coordinating the operation of multiple fans in a centralized and automated manner
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide an intelligent fan network system for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces, comprising fans arranged in an enclosed space, characterized in that each of the fans comprises: a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the enclosed space; a humidity sensor for detecting a humidity of the enclosed space; and a communication unit for establishing a communication network among the fans and a control unit in communication with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor and configured to: receive sensor data from the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor of each of the fans; establish communication among the fans via the communication unit to transmit the received sensor data; and enable each of the fans to adjust an operating speed to optimize air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a method for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces using an intelligent fan network system, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a temperature using a temperature sensor arranged on each of the fans; detecting a humidity using a humidity sensor arranged on each of the fans; establishing a communication network among the fans via a communication unit to transmit sensor data of the detected temperature and the detected humidity; analyzing the received sensor data to determine deviations from optimal air quality and temperature levels within the enclosed space; and adjusting the operating speed of the fans based on the analyzed sensor data to optimize air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide an intelligent fan network system that improves overall climate control efficiency in enclosed spaces.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an intelligent fan network system that enhances accessibility to optimal climate conditions within enclosed spaces.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an intelligent fan network system that improves overall air quality and temperature regulation within enclosed spaces.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an intelligent fan network system that enhances accessibility to optimal climate conditions within enclosed spaces, ensuring that occupants can easily experience and maintain comfortable environments.
[0012] Moreover, embodiments of the present application may provide an intelligent fan network system that improves overall energy efficiency, reducing power consumption while effectively managing air circulation and temperature control within enclosed spaces. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an intelligent fan network system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the control unit of the intelligent fan network system, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0016] FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces using the intelligent fan network system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises”, and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", “consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of”, the like.
[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an intelligent fan network system 100 (hereinafter referred to as the system 100), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 may be capable of providing collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces through synchronized fan operations. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be used for enhancing a comfort and energy efficiency in various enclosed environments, including residential buildings, commercial offices, industrial facilities, and recreational spaces. By intelligently adjusting fan speeds based on real-time sensor data, the system 100 creates a harmonized climate within the enclosed space, reducing discomfort and minimizing energy consumption. The system 100 may be installed at any location requiring climate control within an enclosed space that may be, but not limited to a house, a workplace, a banquet hall, a hospital, a school, an indoor space, an outdoor space and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any location for installing the system 100, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0022] In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may enable seamless communication and coordination among fans 102a-102n (hereinafter singularly referred to as the fan 102 and collectively referred to as the fans 102). The fans 102 may be adapted to collaborate effectively in adjusting their operating speeds based on the real-time sensor data for ensuring an optimal air circulation and a temperature control within the enclosed space. In an embodiment of the present invention, the fans 102 may be configured in various forms that may be, but not limited to ceiling fans, table fans, wall-mounted fans, and so forth catering to different spatial requirements and user preferences. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the fan 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0023] In an embodiment of the present invention, each of the fans 102 of the intelligent fan network system 100 may comprise a temperature sensor 104, a humidity sensor 106, a communication unit 108, and a control unit 110.
[0024] In an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature sensor 104 may be strategically placed on the fan 102 to ensure accurate measurement of a temperature within the enclosed space. The temperature sensor 104 may detect variations in the temperature, allowing the system 100 to adjust the operating speeds of the fan 102 accordingly to maintain the desired climate conditions. The temperature sensor 104 may be, but not limited to a thermistor, a thermocouple, an infrared sensor, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of temperature sensor 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0025] In an embodiment of the present invention, the humidity sensor 106 may be positioned on the fan 102 to monitor the humidity within the enclosed space accurately. The humidity sensor 106 may detect changes in the humidity to provide a valuable data for optimizing air quality and comfort. The humidity sensor 106 may be, but not limited to, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, an optical sensor, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of humidity sensor 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature sensor 104 and the humidity sensor 106 may be integrated for detecting the temperature and the humidity. In an embodiment of the present invention, a single sensor (not shown) may be utilized for detecting both the temperature and humidity within the enclosed space. This integrated sensor may combine a functionality of temperature and humidity sensing into a single unit for simplifying a sensor setup and reducing component complexity. The integrated sensor may employ multi-sensing technologies capable of accurately measuring both temperature and humidity simultaneously. By using the integrated sensor for dual sensing purposes, the system 100 may achieve an efficient data collection while conserving space and reducing installation efforts. In an embodiment of the present invention, the integrated sensor may be a Digital Temperature and Humidity (DTH) sensor that may be employed for detecting both temperature and humidity within the enclosed space.
[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, each fan 102 may comprise the communication unit 108 for establishing a communication network with each other. The communication unit 108 may be equipped with wireless communication technologies such as a Zigbee, or a Wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) for enabling seamless communication and coordination among the fans 102 within the intelligent fan network system 100. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 108 may employ Bluetooth technology for establishing the communication network among the fans 102. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 108 may employ an Internet of Things (IoT) Based communication network. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any communication technology, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0028] By establishing a robust communication network, the fans 102 may the exchange real-time sensor data and collaborate effectively in adjusting their operating speeds to optimize air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, each fan 102 may comprise the control unit 110 for regulating its operation and facilitating collaborative climate control. The control unit 110 may consist of a microcontroller or a programmable logic controller (PLC), equipped with algorithms and logic for analyzing the sensor data, determining optimal fan speeds, and coordinating fan operations. By processing the sensor data and executing control algorithms, the control unit 110 ensures synchronized fan operation to maintain desired air quality and temperature levels within the enclosed space.
[0030] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may comprise at least two fans 102 strategically positioned within the enclosed space. In another embodiment of the present invention, the fans 102 may be three in number. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the fans 102 may be four in number. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any number of the fans 102 installed in the enclosed space, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0031] Each fan 102 may be equipped with a communication unit 108 utilizing Bluetooth technology, enabling seamless wireless communication among the fans. As the temperature sensor 104 and humidity sensor 106 may detect changes in environmental conditions, the control unit 110 of each fan 102 may process the sensor data and initiate communication with neighboring fans 102 via the communication unit 108. Upon receiving the sensor data from the fans 102 installed adjacently, the control unit 110 of the fan 102 may analyze the sensor data to determine the optimal operating speed required to maintain the optimum air circulation and temperature levels within the enclosed space. Through collaborative decision-making, the control unit 110 may negotiate and synchronize the adjustments in fan speeds to achieve a harmonized airflow pattern throughout the room.
[0032] For instance, if a first fan 102a may detect an increase in temperature and humidity in its vicinity, the first fan 102a may relay this information to a second fan 102n through the established communication network. The control unit 110 of the second fan 102n may then evaluate the sensor data and may adjust the operating speed of the second fan 102n accordingly to facilitate a dispersion of cooler air and maintain uniform temperature distribution. This collaborative approach may ensure that all fans 102 within the system 100 work in unison to optimize air circulation and temperature control, thereby enhancing comfort and energy efficiency within the enclosed space. By dynamically adjusting their speeds based on real-time environmental feedback, the fans 102 may effectively respond to changes in ambient conditions, providing a seamless climate control solution for occupants.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the control unit of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 110 comprises computer-executable instructions in the form of programming modules such as a detection module 200, a communication module 202, an analyzing module 204, and an actuation module 206. These modules may work together to facilitate the seamless operation and control of the system 100, ensuring efficient collaborative climate control within enclosed spaces.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the detection module 200 may receive the sensor data from the temperature sensor 104 and the humidity sensor 106 arranged on each of the fans 102a-102n within the enclosed space. the detection module 200 may process the received sensor data to accurately determine the current temperature and humidity levels.
[0035] The communication module 202 may be configured to establish and maintain the communication network among the fans 102a-102n via the communication unit 108. The communication module 302 may facilitate the transmission of the sensor data among the fans 102a-102n for enabling the real-time collaboration in climate control.
[0036] The analyzing module 204 may receive the sensor data from the other fans 102a-102n through the established communication network. The analyzing module 204 may further perform analysis to identify deviations from optimal air quality and temperature levels within the enclosed space. The analyzing module 304 may utilize algorithms to interpret the sensor data and make informed decisions regarding fan speed adjustments.
[0037] The actuation module 206 may receive the analyzed data from the analyzing module 204 and may initiate the necessary adjustments in the operating speeds of the fans 102a-102n to optimize air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space. The actuation module 306 may ensure that the system 100 responds effectively to changes in environmental conditions.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, an interconnection between these modules is seamless, with data flowing from the detection module 200 to the communication module 202 for the transmission among the fans 102a-102n.
[0039] FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method 300 for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces using the intelligent fan network system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] At step 302, the system 100 may detect the temperature using the temperature sensors 104 arranged on each of the fans 102a-102n within the enclosed space.
[0041] At step 304, the system 100 may detect the humidity using the humidity sensors 106 arranged on each of the fans 102a-102n within the enclosed space.
[0042] At step 306, the system 100 may establish a communication network among the fans 102a-102n via the communication unit 108 to transmit the received sensor data.
[0043] At step 308, the system 100 may analyze the received sensor data to determine the deviations from the optimal air quality and the temperature levels within the enclosed space.
[0044] At step 310, the system 100 may adjust the operating speed of each fan 102a-102n based on the analyzed sensor data to optimize air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
[0045] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0046] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. An intelligent fan network system (100) for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces, comprising:
fans (102a-102n) arranged in an enclosed space, characterized in that each of the fans (102a-102n) comprises:
a temperature sensor (104) for detecting a temperature of the enclosed space;
a humidity sensor (106) for detecting a humidity of the enclosed space; and
a communication unit (108) for establishing a communication network among the fans (102a-102n) and
a control unit (110) in communication with the temperature sensor (104) and the humidity sensor (106) and configured to:
receive sensor data from the temperature sensor (104) and the humidity sensor (106) of each of the fans (102a-102n);
establish communication among the fans (102a-102n) via the communication unit (108) to transmit the received sensor data; and
enable each of the fans (102a-102n) to adjust an operating speed to optimize an air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
2. The intelligent fan network system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication unit (108) employs a Bluetooth technology for establishing the communication network among the fans (102a-102n).
3. The intelligent fan network system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to analyze the sensor data and determine optimal operating speeds for the fans (102a-102n) based on the detected temperature and the detected humidity.
4. A method (300) for collaborative climate control in enclosed spaces using an intelligent fan network system (100), the method (300) comprising the steps of:
detecting a temperature using a temperature sensor (104) arranged on each of fans (102a-102n);
detecting a humidity using a humidity sensor (106) arranged on each of the fans (102a-102n);
establishing a communication network among the fans (102a-102n) via a communication unit (108) to transmit sensor data of the detected temperature and the detected humidity;
analyzing the received sensor data to determine deviations from optimal air quality and temperature levels within the enclosed space; and
adjusting the operating speed of the fans (102a-102n) based on the analyzed sensor data to optimize an air circulation and temperature control within the enclosed space.
5. The method (300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the communication unit (108) employs a Bluetooth technology for establishing the communication network among the fans (102a-102n).
Date: May 22, 2024
Place: Noida

Dr. Keerti Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
(IN/PA-1529)