EP4259982A1

EP4259982A1 - Air handling unit and installation method therefor

Info

Publication number: EP4259982A1
Application number: EP21824691.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Pietro CONSALVO
Original assignee: Daikin Applied Europa SpA
Current assignee: Daikin Applied Europa SpA
Priority date: 2020-12-14
Filing date: 2021-12-13
Publication date: 2023-10-18
Also published as: US20240060671A1; JP2024501073A; CA3201842A1; CN116710709A; WO2022130160A1

Abstract

Air handling unit (1), AHU, comprises a plurality of modules (100), each of which includes a sensor (101), configured to detect values of a physical property and generate a control signal (101'), an actuator (102), configured to perform air handling operations and a peripheral controller (103), connected to the sensor (101), to receive the control signal (101'), and to the actuator (102), to control it through a command signal (102'). The modules (100) of the plurality of modules are operatively interconnected according to a predetermined layout. The air handling unit (1), AHU includes a central control unit (200), connected to each peripheral controller (103), to exchange signals with each peripheral controller (103). Each peripheral controller (103) of the modules (100) of the plurality of modules is programmable, with the possibility of varying a control logic, in response to a location of the respective module (100) within the predetermined layout and/or depending on the sensor and the actuator connected to the correspondent peripheral controller.

Description

AIR HANDLING UNIT AND INSTALLATION METHOD THEREFOR

Technical field

This invention relates to an air handling unit, AHU, and to a method for installing the air handling unit, AHU.

Background art

An air handling unit is configured to be installed in an operative space to ventilate or condition thermodynamic parameter of the operative space itself or another space far from the AHU. In most cases, the operative space is very large and the AHU comprises a plurality of modules. Each module of the plurality is disposed in the operative space according to a previously designed layout, to be aimed at conditioning a certain operative zone.

The AHU is split into a plurality of modules in order to make easier the transport of the AHU. On site, the AHU con be assembled again into one piece (in a box) or, in certain cases, some modules can be located in different operative zone of the operative space.

Each module of the plurality has at least one actuator, configured to perform air conditioning operations, and at least one sensor, to receive control signal, representative of a physic property of the operative space.

The AHU comprises a central control unit, to control the plurality of modules.

An AHU can be standard or can be customized depending on custom specification. In the latter case, the design of the layout is customized depending on the operative space in which the AHU has to be installed and also depending on the specification given by the custom. Hence, for every new installation, the peripherical controller has to be programmed depending on the custom design, which, in turn, depends on the custom requests.

In the known solution, in order to get the custom design, the actuator and the sensors of each section are wired in order to obtain the custom logic control. Before the installation, the AHU has to be installed temporarily to check if it works fine, then demounted and again reinstalled on-site. However, this operation is time consuming and it is affected by a certain probability of make error during on-site wiring.

In other solutions, to avoid the on-site wiring of all the sensor and actuator, the sensor and the actuator are connected to a peripherical terminal, that is wired during the assembly of the module. Hence, during the on-site installation, the operator has just to connect the modules.

However, also this solution is affected by the human error in connecting the modules.

Solutions which are affected by the above mentioned drawbacks are disclosed in the following documents: US2014/303789, US2018/224144 e US5682329.

Disclosure of the invention

Scope of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

This scope is achieved by the air handling unit, AHU, and by the method for installing the air handling unit, AHU, object of the present disclosure, that overcome at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the description provides an air handling unit, AHU (in the following AHU). The AHU comprises a plurality of modules (operative sections).

In one embodiment, the description provides an air handling system, including a plurality of air handling unit AHU. In this embodiment, each AHU defines a module of the air handling system.

At least one module includes a respective sensor. In one embodiment, each module includes a respective sensor. The sensor is configured to detect values of a physical property. The sensor is configured to generate a control signal. At least one module includes a respective actuator. In one embodiment, each module includes a respective actuator. The actuator is configured to perform air handling operations. The actuator can be a valve, for regulating a cold water, hot water or refrigerant fluid flow. The actuator can be a fan. The actuator can be a shutter.

In one embodiment, the module may comprise both the sensor and the actuator while in another embodiment, the module may comprise only one between the sensor and the actuator.

In one embodiment, each module includes a respective peripheral controller.

Each controller is connected to the correspondent sensor, to receive the control signal. Each controller is connected to the actuator, to control it through a command signal.

In one embodiment, each module may comprise a plurality of sensor, each one connected to the peripheral controller. In one embodiment, each module may comprise a plurality of actuator, each one connected to the peripheral controller.

The modules of the plurality of modules are operatively interconnected according to a predetermined layout. This layout is determined in a design step, where the layout is realized according to custom specification.

The AHU includes a central control unit. The central control unit is connected to each module (or to each peripherical controller), to exchange signals with each peripheral controller. The central control unit is connected to each peripheral controller, to feed them with electrically power.

In one embodiment, each peripheral controller of the modules of the plurality of modules is programmable.

In one example, each peripheral controller of the plurality of modules is programmable after being installed in a position of the predefined configuration. Each peripheral controller is structurally suitable (it is adapted) to be installed in any position of the predefined configuration. For example, each one of the peripheral controllers include the same number of connections. In one example, all peripheral controllers have the same hardware, i.e. they have the same structural configuration; this makes it particularly easy to substitute one peripheral controller with another. The characterization of each peripheral controller is performed after it is actually installed.

With respect to the present disclosure, the term “operative space” may indicate the total space with is thermally conditioned or a particular zone of the total space, wherein the modules are placed according to the predetermined layout.

Hence, in this view, each operative zone can be a room of the total space, in which is placed a certain module, or just a location, a position of a certain module inside a box which contains the unit.

In other words, the peripheral controller manages (controls) the respective sensors and actuators according to a control logic that is installed on the peripherical controller. In one embodiment, the control logic is updateable based on the sensor and/or on the actuator which are connected to the correspondent peripheral controller. In one embodiment, the control logic is updatable depending on a location of the respective module within the predetermined layout.

Please observe that the peripherical controller may be just a converter, which is configured to convert analogic signals into digital ones. Hence, in a more general definition, the control logic is representative of operations to perform on the analogic and/or digital signals received by the peripheral controller (even just a conversion).

The term “location” indicates a role, a function of the module in the AHU, or a physical location in the operative space.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit is programmable. In other words, the central control unit is configured to receive programming data, representative of a control logic which is run on the central control unit. Preferably, these data include information regarding each peripheral control unit and the sensor and/or the actuator connected therein. In this way, the central control unit knows exactly which signals should receive from each peripheral controller. Therefore, the central control unit may alert the peripheral control unit whenever it receives a signal which is not conform to the expected one.

The control unit has the possibility of varying a control logic, to control each peripherical controller according to a location of the respective module within the predetermined layout.

This means that the AHU may approach the control in two different way. According to a first embodiment, the control of the actuator and of the sensor may be performed in part by the respective peripheral controller (for example for those controls which don’t require feedback for sensors and actuator of the others modules) and can be completed by a control performed by the central control unit (for example for those controls which require feedback from sensors and actuator of different modules).

In other words, the control unit controls sensors and actuators of the AHU according to a control logic that is installed on it, which is programmed to control sensor and actuator in response to their location (their function) in the operative space.

In one embodiment, each peripherical controller is configured to collect signals from the respective sensor, preferably in the form of analogic signal. Each peripherical controller is configured to transform the analogic signal into a digital signal. Each peripherical controller is configured to send the digital signal to the control unit.

In one embodiment, each peripheral controller is programmed before the peripheral control is connected and disposed into the respective module. After the peripheral controller is programmed, the AHU provides a printer, for print a label indicating the connection and the specifications of the respective peripheral controller.

Each peripheral controller includes a plurality of connection. Preferably, each connection is identified by a colour and/or by the number of pins of the connection. Each colour represents a specific sensor and/or a specific actuator. Hence, when the AHU is assembled on site, the colour avoid the operator to perform wrong connection, because he has connectors for sensor and actuator which have colours corresponding to those provided in the respective peripheral controller.

In one embodiment, each peripheral controller is programmed after the peripheral control is connected and disposed into the respective module. In other words, the control logic is updated on site. This embodiment provides the possibility to manufacture a plurality of modules that are similar to each other and that can be positioned within every position of the predetermined layout in which a module is provided. Hence, error occasions are drastically reduced and the flexibility are increased. In fact, after their positioning, each module can be programmed according to the position in which it is actually disposed. Moreover, the standardization of the modules provides further advantages by simplifying the manufacturing process.

In other words, each of said peripheral controllers includes the same number of connections (i.e. the same number of inputs and / or the same number of outputs) and I or the same computing power, so that it can be positioned in the predetermined layout in any position where a peripheral controller is foreseen. This drastically reduces installation errors.

Each peripheral controller is configured to be programmed depending on where it is installed. In other words, each peripheral controller is programmed after it has been placed. The operator can identify the position in which he has just positioned the peripheral controller, select that position from a list of positions of the default configuration in a mobile programming device and, automatically, the mobile programming device installs the program corresponding to the specific position.

In one example, each module of the plurality of modules includes a proximity receiver. The proximity receiver is configured to receive data representative of the control logic. By means of the proximity receiver, it is possible to program the peripheral controller by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology. In addition or alternatively, by means of the proximity receiver, it is possible to program the peripheral controller by means of RFID transmission technology.

In one embodiment, the peripheral controller comprises a ModBus node. In one embodiment, the ModBus node integrates also the sensor and/or the actuator.

In one embodiment, each module of said plurality comprises a control container.

Each control container includes an external casing. The external casing delimits an internal volume. Each peripheral controller is housed in the internal volume of the respecting control container. In this way, each peripheral controller is protected from being touched and, eventually, damaged.

In one embodiment, each control container comprises a respective septum (or separating wall or cover). Each septum (separating wall or cover) is configured to divide the respective internal volume into a first volume and a second volume. In one embodiment, each control container comprises a respective plurality of connectors. The plurality of connectors is configured to connect the peripheral controller to the respective sensor and/or the respective actuator. In one embodiment, the first volume houses the correspondent peripheral controller. In one embodiment, the second volume houses the respective plurality of connectors. With this arrangement, the peripheral controller is not touched even during the connection of the sensor and/or the actuator to the peripheral controller.

In another embodiment, each control container comprises a respective cover, preferably made of plastic. The plastic cover is configured to delimit the first volume, in which is located the peripherical controller. The plastic cover surrounds, at least partially, the respective peripherical controller, preventing it to be damaged during connections. The plastic cover is placed over the peripherical controller.

The plastic cover includes a LED light guide, to guide the light of one or more LEDs of the respective peripherical controller.

In one embodiment, each peripheral controller comprises an indicator light. The indicator light is representative of an operating status of the corresponding module, for example an indication of a correct working of the module or of a problem of the module. In one embodiment, each control container comprises an inspection opening, through which the light of the respective peripheral controller is visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the indicator light is on the peripheral controller.

Therefore, the indicator light and the condition of the module is inspectable from the outside, without the need to open the control container.

In one embodiment, the proximity receiver is arranged on an external surface of the respective control container.

The central control unit is connected to each peripheral controller by means of a power cable, to electrically feed the corresponding module. The central control unit is connected to each peripheral controller by means of a signal cable. In one embodiment, the control cable signal defining a ModBus connection, connected to the Modbus node of each module.

In one embodiment, the AHU includes one or more of the following actuators:

- Water Valves;

- Dampers;

- Air plasma ionizer;

- Damper Actuators;

- UV Lamps;

- Switch.

In one embodiment, the actuator of the modules of said plurality of modules is configured to perform one or more of the following operations:

- forced air circulation from the outside and returned to the respective operating area;

- forced air circulation from inside and expelled outside the operating area;

- heat exchange for cooling or heating air;

- mixing of a forced air flow from outside with a forced air flow from the operating area;

- air humidification and de-humidification;

- air renewal in the operating area to reduce CO2 or CO or VOC or PM or radon concentration and/or other gases concentration;

- air filtration and renewal to reduce particulate matter and volatile organic compounds concentration;

- air filtration and renewal to reduce bacteria and viruses concentration;

- air filtration and renewal to reduce Radon concentration.

The control signals are, at least in part, digital signals and I or analogic signals.

The sensors which detect temperature, pressure, humidity and CO2 are analogic sensors.

In one embodiment, the AHU includes one or more of the following digital sensors:

- Amount of CO2 and CO;

- Air flow and mass flow;

- Particulate matter (PM1 -PM2,5-PM10);

- Volatile organic compounds detector;

- Sound level;

- Gas concentration and emissions;

- Light and electromagnetic radiation;

- Heat flux;

- Smoke presence;

- Motor Vibration Sensor;

- Fan Vibration sensor;

- Relative Humidity Sensor;

- Radon Sensor; - Pressure sensor;

- Differential pressure sensor;

- Presence sensor.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to execute one or more o the following alarms:

- Fan alarm;

- DX alarm;

- Battery alarm;

- Heat recovery alarm;

- Heater alarm;

- Cooling/heating pump alarm;

- Humidifier pump alarm;

- Isothermal Humidifier alarm;

- Fire alarms;

- Malfunctioning of electric and mechanical components;

- Overheating;

- Voltage drop or increase;

- Rotor faults;

- Filter change;

- Motor alarm;

- CO2 concentration over a limit;

- PM concentration over a limit;

- VOC concentration over a limit;

- Radon concentration over a limit.

The AHU of the present disclosure is configured to allow the final client to freely customize the AHU modules, by means of a selection software dedicated. After the customization is done, the software is programmed to send the customized AHU to a terminal of an installation operator. The terminal of the operator programs the modules of the AHU according to the customized AHU received. Also, the operator terminal is programmed to automatically render the layout of the AHU, based on the customized AHU chosen by the client.

In addition to that, the control software is programmed to render the electric schema “as build”, which has to be delivered to the client. Also, the control software programs the main controller and the modules teaching them the “modbus” address of each sensor to be connected with each module.

All these features increase the reliability and the flexibility of the system. Moreover, they make easier the assembly of the system and the electrical connection of the AHU, which can be done also by users which are not expert in the field.

In one embodiment, in case of failure of one peripherical controller, the AHU system includes a maintenance terminal, which can be the same used during installation by the operator. The terminal is programmed to receive configuration data from the damaged peripherical controller. The configuration data are representing of the program which run over the damaged peripherical controller. This communication may be done by means of a NFC connection. Then, the terminal is programmed to transfer, for example through a NFC connection, the configuration data to a new peripherical controller. Finally, the peripherical controller should be just changed, without any difficulty and with very low chances to make mistakes.

According to an aspect of the present description, the present description provides a method for installing an air handling unit, AHU, in an operating space.

The method includes a step of providing a plurality of modules, each including a sensor and/or an actuator and a peripheral controller, to control the sensor and/or the actuator.

The method includes a step of providing a central control unit.

The method includes a step of positioning each module in a corresponding operating zone of the operating space (or in a corresponding operative position in the predetermined layout). The method includes a step of connecting of the central control unit to each peripheral controller of said modules of the plurality of modules, to exchange signals with the respective peripheral controller of each module.

The method includes a step of programming, in which each peripheral controller of said modules of the plurality of modules is programmed by installing a corresponding control logic. The control logic is selected based on the sensor and/or the actuator to which the correspondent peripheral controller is connected to.

The method includes a step of on-site programming, in which, preferably after the positioning phase, each peripheral controller of said modules of the plurality of modules is programmed by installing a corresponding control logic. The control logic is selected based on the operating area in which the module has been positioned.

However, the control unit and/or the peripherical controller can be also programmed at factory, during quality control before it is transported on site.

In one embodiment, the (on-site or on-factory) programming step is performed through a proximity data transmission step. In the proximity data transmission step, an operator brings a programming device closer to a proximity receiver of each peripheral controller of said modules of the plurality of modules. In the proximity data transmission step, the programming device transmits control data to the respective module, to install the correspondent control logic.

In one embodiment, the method includes a step of wiring phase, in which the sensor and/or the actuator are connected to the peripheral controller via a plurality of connectors. In this step the plurality of connectors are spaced apart from the respective peripheral controller in order to avoid its damage during the wiring step.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the description provides a method for programming control logics on a plurality of modules of an air handling unit, AHU, through a programming device including a processor.

The method includes a step of receiving layout data, representative of a predetermined layout. The modules of the plurality of modules are operationally interconnected according to the predetermined layout. The modules of the plurality of modules are positioned in a operative space according to the predetermined layout.

The method includes a step of receiving control data, representative of a plurality of control logics. In other words, the control data are a set of data to install in a generic processor to instruct it to perform a certain control logic.

Each control logic is associated with a corresponding module of said plurality of modules. The control logic is associate to a respective module, based on an arrangement of the module in the predetermined layout. The control logic can be associated to the respective module by an input from an operator who is designing the control. In other embodiment, the processor retrieves control data from a memory, depending on the arrangement of the module in the predetermined layout and/or depending on a particular kind of module. The kind of module is specified by an operator trough an input of the programming device.

The method includes a step of receiving an identification input, representative of a selection of a module to be programmed by an operator. In other words, when the operator in on-site to install the AHU, after he has physically positioned a module in a position, he can select, on the programming device, the correspondent virtual module, showing in the programming device to be in the specific position. In other embodiment, when the operator in on factory, before sending the AHU to the client, he can select, on the programming device, the correspondent virtual module, showing in the programming device to be in the specific position.

The method includes a step of transferring of selected control data, representative of a control logic associated with the selected module to be programmed. The selected control data are transferred from the programming device to the corresponding peripheral controller of the selected module to be programmed.

In one embodiment, the step of transferring the selected control data is carried out by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the description provides a computer program comprising operating instructions configured to perform one or more steps of the method for programming control logics on a plurality of modules of an air handling unit, AHU.

Brief description of drawings

This and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred, non-limiting example embodiment of it, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

- figure 1 illustrates a schematic layout of an air handling unit, AHU;

- figure 2 illustrates a schematic section of a control container;

- figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of a method for programming control logics on a plurality of modules of an air handling unit, AHU;

- figure 4 illustrates a schematic view of a transmitting step of the method according to figure 3.

- figure 5A and 5B illustrate a first and a second schematic view of a control container.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

With reference to the attached figures, an air handling unit, AHU is indicated with reference number 1. The AHU 1 is installable in an operative space OS to be thermodynamically conditioned. In particular, the AHU comprises at least one, but preferably a plurality of modules 100. Each module 100 of the plurality of module is disposed in a correspondent operative zone Z (in a correspondent position of the predetermined layout). Please observe that the AHU is configured to thermally conditioning or ventilate or perform other physical transformation on the air contained into a conditioning space, which is the space which has to be conditioned. Sometimes, the operative space, where the AHU is placed and the conditioning space, which has to be conditioned, is the same, however, this is just an example. In most of the cases, the conditioning space is different (considerably larger than) from the operative space OS. The AHU 1 comprises a central control unit 200, that is configured to control the AHU 1 . In particular, the central control unit 200 is connected to (in terms of capability of receiving data from) each of the module 100 of the plurality of module.

This information connection could be performed in two different way. According to a first embodiment, which is particularly advantageous for a limited number of modules, the central control unit 200 is directly connected, by a respective cable, to each module 100. According to a second embodiment, which is particularly advantageous for a large number of modules, the central control unit 200 is connected to one module or, maximum, two modules. In this embodiment, the others module are serially connected, and the information regarding the modules pass through the other modules 100.

In one embodiment, the AHU comprises a plurality of sensors 300, which are configured to detect values of a physical property within the operative space. Said plurality of sensors 300 is connected, directly or indirectly, to the central control unit 200. In one embodiment, at least one sensor 301 is directly connected to the central control unit 200. Said at least one sensor 301 is connected to the central control unit 200 to send it control signals, preferably analogue control signals.

According to an aspect of the present description, said one or more sensors comprises one or more of the following sensors:

- temperature sensors;

- pressure sensors;

- humidity sensors.

In one embodiment, the AHU comprises a plurality of actuators 400, which are configured to perform operations to thermodynamically condition the operative zone Z (the operative position) in which they are positioned. Said plurality of actuators 400 is connected, directly or indirectly, to the central control unit 200. In one embodiment, at least one actuator is directly connected to the central control unit 200. Said at least one actuator is connected to the central control unit 200 to receive from the central control unit 200 command signals, preferably analogue command signals.

According to an aspect of the present description, said one or more actuators comprises one or more of the following actuators:

- a fan, to perform a forced-air circulation from the outside of the operative space to the inside of the operative space and/or to perform forced-air circulation from the inside of the operative space to the outside of the operative space;

- a heat exchanger, to perform a heat exchange between the air in the operative space and a thermal conditioning fluid, which can be a heater or a refrigerant fluid;

- a dehumidifier, to dehumidify the air in the operative space;

- a heat recovery system, to recover the heat from a discharge section of the AHU.

In one embodiment, each module comprises one or more sensors 101 of said plurality of sensors 300. In one embodiment, each module comprises one or more actuators 102 of said plurality of actuators 400.

Each module 100 of the plurality of modules comprises a peripheral controller 103. The peripheral controller 103 is configured to exchange signals with (receive from, send to) the central control unit 200. The signal that each peripheral controller 103 exchange with the central control unit are preferably digital signals. However, the peripheral controller 103 may also exchange analogue signals.

Each peripheral controller 103 is connected to the central control unit by means of a power cable PC, which is configured to feed electrical energy to each peripheral controller 103. Moreover, each peripheral controller 103 is connected to the central control unit by means of a signal cable SC, which is configured to transfer digital signals, from and to each peripheral controller 103.

In one embodiment, the power cable PC and the signal cable SC are both housed in a main cable, that is connected to each peripheral controller 103.

Each peripheral controller 103 of the modules of the plurality of modules 100 is connected to the respective one or more sensors 101. Said one or more sensors 101 are configured to send to the respective peripheral controller 103 control signals 101 ’, which are representative of the value detected by the sensors. Each peripheral controller 103 of the modules of the plurality of modules 100 is connected to the respective one or more actuators 102. In one embodiment, each peripheral controller 103 is configured electrically feed the respective one or more actuators 102. In one embodiment, each peripheral controller 103 is configured to send command signals 102’ to the respective one or more actuators 102 to command their operations.

In one embodiment, the signal cable SC is a ModBus. In one embodiment, each peripheral controller 103 comprises a respective ModBus node, connected with the Modbus.

Each module 100 of the plurality of modules comprises a control container

400. The control container 400 may be a box made of plastic or other suitable material. The control container 400 comprises a plurality of walls

401 , delimiting an internal volume V. The plurality of walls 401 defines an external surface ES of the control container 400 and an internal surface IS of the control container 400.

The control container 400 include a septum 402. For example, the septum 402 is a wall that is connected with the plurality of walls 401 . The septum may be manufactured in such a way to integrally connected with the plurality of walls 401 . For example, the control container 400 may be made by a molding process. The septum 402 include a connection opening 402’. The septum 402 divides the internal volume V in a first volume V1 and in a second volume V2. The first volume V1 and the second volume V2 are in communication trough the connection opening 402’.

In one embodiment, the control container 400 comprises a plurality of connectors 403. The plurality of connectors 403 are configured to allow the connection of the peripheral controller 103 with said one or more sensors and/or with said one or more actuators of the respective module 100. The plurality of connectors 403 is electrically connected with the respective peripheral controller 103.

Each module 100 comprises a plurality of connecting cables 404, to connect the peripheral controller 103 with said one or more sensors and/or with said one or more actuators of the respective module 100.

The control container 400 includes a plurality of external openings 405, each one configured to allow the access to the internal volume V to a corresponding connecting cables 404 of the plurality of connecting cables. In one embodiment, the first volume V1 houses the respective peripheral controller 103, which is for example fixed to one wall of the plurality of walls 401. In one embodiment, the second volume V2 houses the plurality of connectors 403.

In this embodiment, the connection between the plurality of connectors 403 and the respective peripheral controller crosses the septum through the connection opening 402’.

In one embodiment, each peripheral controller 103 includes an indicator light 406. The indicator light 406 is configured to provide information, according the type of light emitted, regarding an operating status of the respective module 100.

For example, if the module 100 has some operative problems the indicator light 406 emits a red light while, when the module 100 works fine, the indicator light 406 emits a green light.

In one embodiment, the control container 400 includes an inspection opening 407. The inspection opening 407 is open to the internal volume V of the control container 400, to allow the operator to see the indicator light 406 from the outside. In other embodiments, the indicator light 406 can be placed on the external surface ES of the control container 400 and connected to the respective peripheral controller 103 by means of a dedicated wire.

In one embodiment, each module 100 includes a proximity receiver 408. The proximity receiver 408 is configured to receive data from an external device and to send the data to the peripheral controller 103 to which it is connected, through a near-field communication, NFC, technology. In particular, according to one embodiment, the proximity receiver 408 is configured to receive control data 103’, representative of a control logic to be installed in the respective peripheral controller 103. In some embodiments, each module 100 includes a proximity transmitter. The proximity transmitter is configured to send data from the peripheral controller 103 to an external device, through a near-field communication, NFC, technology. The proximity transmitter may be useful in order to download data from a memory of the respective peripheral control 103, for example in case of control failure or other diagnosis need.

According to one aspect of the present description, only as an example of embodiment, the plurality of modules comprises:

- a first filtration module M1 , which includes: a shutter, to close and open an aperture for receiving the external air; a temperature sensor, configured to detect the external temperature; a filtration system, to filter the external air;

- a heat recovering module M2, which includes a recovering heater, to recover heat from the air flowing out and transmit it to the air flowing in, and a temperature sensor;

- a thermal conditioning module M3, including: a cooler; a heater; one or more valve to regulate the flow; one or more temperature sensors;

- a second filtration module M4, including: a filtration system, to filter the air flowing in from the outside; a temperature sensor; a pressure sensor;

- a third filter module M5, to filter the air flowing out from the operative space.

According to an aspect of the present description, the present disclosure provides a further embodiment of the control container, which is illustrated in figures 5A and 5B.

In this embodiment, the control container 400 includes a cover 401 ’, which is configured to protect the peripheral controller 103. The cover 40T is preferably transparent. The cover 40T is open on one side to receive cable to connect on the peripheral controller 103.

The peripheral controller 103 preferably includes a plurality of plugs 402’ (preferably ten plugs), configured to receive an input signal or to send an output signal. This plugs 402’ are configured to be connected with the sensors 101 and the actuators 102 of the respective module 100.

Each plug 402’ is characterized by a colour, which identified the sensor and/or the actuator which has to connected therein. Each plug 402’ may includes multiple pin connections.

The proximity receiver 408 of the peripheral controller 103 is preferably spaced from a base of the peripheral controller. This ensure that it can be detect and/or induct from the outside.

The peripheral controller 103 includes a first plug 403’ and a second plug 404’. The first plug 403’, which defines a ModBus communication, is configured to receive signals from the central control unit 200 or from another peripheral controller 103. The second plug 404’, which defines a ModBus communication, is configured to send signals to the central control unit 200 or to another peripheral controller 103.

Each of this first and second plug 403’ and 404’ includes, preferably, six pins: two signals pin, one reference pin, two feeding pin and one pin which is connected to a mesh that wraps the two signal cables.

The control container 400 comprises an external housing 405’. The external housing 405’ includes a first shell 405T and a second shell 4052’, which are connectable to each other in order to inhibit access to the internal volume V of the control container 400.

The first shell 405T comprises a recess R. The first shell 405T comprises a wall W, including at least two grooves, to support the Input ModBus and the output ModBus on them.

In one embodiment, the control container 400 includes a pressure plate 406’, configured to be connected to pressure gages. The pressure plate 406’ is housed into the recess R. In one embodiment, the pressure plate 406T includes four pipes, in order to connect the pressure plate 406’ to two pressure gauges. In one embodiment, the pressure plate 4062’ includes two pipes, in order to connect the pressure plate 406’ to one pressure gauge. Finally, in one embodiment, the pressure plate 4063’ is flat, in order to close the recess R when the peripheral controller has not to control pressure.

For each pipe of the pressure plate 406’, the control container 400 includes a corresponding plastic tube, which connect the pipe to the peripheral controller 103.

All the cable which are led to the peripheral controller (ModBus In, ModBus Out, sensor cables, actuator cables) are located between the first shell 405T and the second shell 4052’. For this purpose, the control container 400 comprises a first seal 4071 ’ and a second seal 4072’. The first seal 4071 ’ comprises a first part P1 and a second part P2. The first part P1 includes a profile which is complementary to the recess R of the first shell 405T. Therefore, the first part P1 of the first seal 4071 ’ is disposed on a border of the first shell 405T in which it is provided the recess R. The pressure plate 406’ is located in the first seal 4071 ’. The second part P2 of the first seal 4071 ’ is placed above the pressure plate 406’ to continue to close, actually, the first seal 4071 ’.

The first seal 4071 ’ comprises, on the side opposite to the border of the first shell 4051 ’, a first plurality of seats S1 , each one configured to receive a correspondent cable.

The second seal 4072’ includes a second plurality of seats S2, which, in combination whit the first plurality of seats S1 , surrounds the cables which arrive to the peripheral controller. Hence, the first seal 4071 ’ and the second seal 4072’ are interposed between the first shell 405T and the second shell 4052’.

The control container 400 further includes placeholder plugs 408’. The placeholder plugs 408’ are plug which can be placed between the first and the second seal 4071 ’, 4072’ if there is not the correspondent cable which, in the specific control logic loaded on the peripheral controller, is not provided.

The cover 40T comprises a plurality of light guides, which are configured to guide the light of the indicator light 406, from the base of the peripheral controller 103 to the housing 405’, in order to be detect from the outside.

In one embodiment, the control container includes a plurality of one direction holders 409’. The one direction holders are configured to hold the cables in one direction, in order to avoid a cable to be detached from the control container 400. In one embodiment, each one direction holders 409 includes a first wall and a second wall, which are divergent to each other in an extraction direction of the cables. Hence, when the cable is pulled from the outside, the two walls bend as a consequence of the friction with the cable and they tighten the cable, preventing its extraction.

In one embodiment, the peripheral controller 103 includes a USB connection, to upload and download data to/from the peripheral controller 103.

In one embodiment, the control container 400 comprises an extraction tool, which is associated with the external housing 405’. The extraction tool helps the worker to extract the cables and/or to insert the cables into the respective plug.

In one embodiment, the peripheral controller includes six led (light indicator 406). The peripheral controller is programmed to display the colour on the led according to the following legenda.

LED1 : colour green, peripheral controller on.

LED2: colour red: peripheral controller error, peripheral controller should be substituted.

LED3: colour yellow: I/O cabling error.

LED4: colour blue, communication is ok.

LED5: colour yellow: communication timeout with the central control unit 200

LED6: colour red, module in alarm state.

The description also provides a method for installing an air handling unit AHU. The method includes a step of providing an AHU 1 , including a plurality of modules 100. In this step, the AHU is transported into a site wherein the AHU has to be installed.

In particular, the AHU 1 has to be installed in an operative space OS. After the AHU is transported in the site, the AHU has to be positioned within the operative space OS. In particular, the method comprises a step of positioning, wherein the AHU 1 is positioned in the operative space OS. In particular, in the positioning step, each module 100 of the plurality of module is positioned in a correspondent operative zone Z (operative position in the predetermined layout).

In the step of positioning, a central control unit 200 of the AHU 1 is positioned within a correspondent location of the operative space OS.

The method includes a step of connecting. In the step of connecting, one or more of the following connections may be performed.

Each module 100 is connected with the central control unit 200. In particular, according to an embodiment, wherein each module has a corresponding peripheral controller 103, each peripheral controller 103 is connected with the central control unit 200. In the step of connecting, each peripheral controller 103 is connected with the central control unit 200 by means of a power cable PC, to be feed by the central control unit 200 with electric energy. In the step of connecting, each peripheral controller 103 is connected with the central control unit 200 by means of a signal cable SC, to exchange digital and/or analogue signals with the central control unit 200.

In the step of connecting, each peripheral controller 103 is connected with the respective one or more sensors 101 of the module 100. In particular, according to an embodiment, the connection between peripheral controller 103 and said one or more sensors 101 is an analogue connection. This connection allows the one or more sensors 101 to send control signals 10T to the respective peripheral controller 103.

In the step of connecting, each peripheral controller 103 is connected with the respective one or more actuators 102 of the module 100. In particular, according to an embodiment, the connection between peripheral controller 103 and said one or more actuators 102 include a power transmission and/or a signal transmission. This connection allows the one or more actuators 102 to receive command signals 102’ to the respective peripheral controller 103.

In the step of connecting, a plurality of connecting cables 404, connected at one extremity to said one or more sensors 101 and/or to said one or more actuators 102, are inserted into corresponding external openings 405 of a control container 400 of the modulo 100. After the plurality of connecting cables 404 has been inserted into the corresponding external openings 405, they are connected a corresponding plurality of connectors 403, which are, in turn, in connection with the respective peripheral controller. The plurality of connectors 403 is disposed into the control container 400 to be distanced from the respective peripheral controller 103, so as to avoid any damage of the peripherical controller 103 during the connecting step.

The method includes a step of housing, wherein the peripheral controller 103 is disposed in a first volume V1 of an internal volume V of the control container 400 while the plurality of connectors 403 is disposed in a second volume V2 of the internal volume V, which is divided form the first volume V1 by a septum 402. The step of housing is preferably performed not in site but during the assembly of each module.

The step of positioning is performed based on a predetermined layout that is provided to the operator. Each module 100 of the plurality of module must be controlled in a certain way depending on its position within the predetermined layout.

Hence, the method includes a step of programming.

In one embodiment, the step of programming may be on site, after the peripheral controllers have been positioned. In other embodiment, the step of programming may be on factory, before the AHU is sent to the client.

The step of programming allows to characterize each module 100. In fact, before the (on-site or on-factory) programming, each module 100 of the plurality is suitable to be positioned in any position of the predetermined layout in which is provided a module 100. With the (on-site or on-factory) programming step, each module is differentiated depending on the position in which it is really and physically disposed (or, depending on the sensors and the actuator to which it is connected). This feature avoids any error by the operator on disposing the wrong module in a certain position of the layout.

Hence, the step of (on-site or on-factory) programming includes a step of transferring control data 103’, representative of a control logic to be installed in the respective module 100, from a programming device PD to the respective module 100. In other words, in the step of (on-site or on- factory) programming, each peripheral controller 103 is programmed according to the position in which the correspondent module 100 is located in the operative space. In one embodiment, the step of transferring control data 103’ is made through a near-field communication technology NFC.

When the programming step is performed on site, the programing step is preferably performed after the step of positioning.

More in particular, after the step of positioning, the operator holds the programming device PD, which could be simply a smartphone or a table or a personal computer and approaches each module 100 of said plurality in order to program it. The operator selects, preferably on the screen of the programming device PD, the module which is displayed on the virtual layout in a position that correspond to the real position of the module. The programming device PD, based on the positioned of the module selected on the screen, prepare the control data 103’ corresponding to the control logic to be installed in the selected module 100. The programming device PD transmits the prepared control data 103’ to the proximity receiver 408 of the respective module 100 to install on the peripherical controller 103 the designed control logic. This step of transmitting is done for each module 100 of the plurality of module.

In other words, the plurality of modules is selected among a database of modules in a selection software. In particular, the client may customize is AHU and, according to the client selection, the modules are picked from a database of modules. After all the modules are defined, whit all their components, the software is also able to draft an economical offer.

When the order is performed, the software sends all the information regarding the modules, in particular all the components and the position of the modules in the AHU layout, to an operator, which can install the AHU, trough the software, in the factory or even on site during the assembly of the AHU, according to the received specification.

More in particular, the present description provides also a method for programming control logics on a plurality of modules of an air handling unit, AHU, through a programming device including a processor.

The method includes a step of receiving F1 layout data 10, representative of a predetermined layout, according to which the modules of the plurality of modules are operationally interconnected.

The method includes a step of receiving F2 control data 103’, representative of a plurality of control logics. Each control logic is associated with a corresponding module 100 of said plurality of modules. Each control logic is associated with a corresponding module 100 of said plurality of modules, based on an arrangement of the module 100 in the predetermined layout.

The control data 103’ and/or the layout data 10 may be received by the processor in one or more of the following ways:

- read on a remote server the layout data and/or the control data associated to a specific custom project, the layout data being generated by an operator in another terminal during a designing step;

- import, through an importing module of the programming device, the layout data and/or the control data;

- receive the layout data and/or the control data by email or by a wireless connection;

- receive the layout data through a mobile communication or a Narrow Band.

In one embodiment, each module may be classified within a set of categories, according to his function and/or his position. In one embodiment, the processor receives from an operator, which is designing the AHU, a category to which each module belongs to.

In one embodiment, the processor read on a remote server the control data of each module 100, based on the category to which the respective module 100 belongs to.

The method includes a step of receiving F3 an identification input 11 , representative of a selection of a module 100 to be programmed by an operator.

For example, the identification input 11 may be a selection of a specific module 100 by touching it on a touch screen of the programming device PD, where is displayed a virtual predetermined layout.

In one embodiment, the method comprises a step of transferring F4 of selected control data 103’, representative of a control logic associated with the selected module to be programmed. The selected control data 103’ are transferred from the programming device PD to a corresponding peripheral controller 103 of the module 100 to be programmed.

Preferably, the step of transferring F4 the selected control data 103’ is carried out by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology.

In one embodiment, the processor is configured to group control data 103’ based on the predetermined layout, to define a new group of control data 103’ (define new control logic) which is not yet present in the database of control data (control logics). The processor is configured to save the new group of control data 103’ (the new control logic) in the database, in order to be implement directly for future projects.

For example, if the user implements a number of sensors in a module which are greater than the maximum number of sensors manageable by each single group of control data 103’ in the database (by the control logics present in the database), the processor may select two group of control data 103’ (two existing control logic), which are, in combination, able to manage all the sensors. However, these solutions work with two peripheral controllers, each one programmed with the respective group of control data 103’ (with the respective control logic). In other embodiments, the processor, if the peripheral controller is physically able to manage all the sensors, creates a new group of control data 103’ (new control logic), which are programmed to control a peripheral controller which implements all the sensors together. Hence, just one peripheral controller may be used for the same number of sensors.

Moreover, the database of control data 103’ is continuously updated with new group of control data 103’ which may cover the different needs of the clients.

Claims

29 CLAIMS

1. Air handling unit (1 ), AHU, comprising:

- a plurality of modules (100), each of which includes: a sensor (101 ), configured to detect values of a physical property and generate a control signal (101 ’) and/or an actuator (102), configured to perform air handling operations; a peripheral controller (103), connected to the sensor (101 ), to receive the control signal (101 ’), and to the actuator (102), to control it through a command signal (102’), the modules (100) of the plurality of modules are operatively interconnected according to a predetermined layout;

- a central control unit (200), in communication with each peripheral controller (103), to exchange signals with each peripheral controller (103), characterized by the fact that each peripheral controller (103) of the modules (100) of the plurality of modules is programmable, with the possibility of varying a control logic, in response to the sensor and/or the actuator which is connected to correspondent peripheral controller, according to the predetermined layout.

2. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to claim 1 , wherein each module (100) of the plurality of modules includes a proximity receiver (408), configured to receive control data (103’) representative of the control logic, to program the peripheral controller (103) by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology.

3. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each module (100) of said plurality comprises a control container (400), including an external casing (401 ), delimiting an internal volume (V), and wherein each peripheral controller (103) is housed in the internal volume (V). 30

4. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to claim 3, wherein each control container (400) comprises a respective cover, configured to divide the internal volume (V) into a first volume (V1) and a second volume (V2), and a respective plurality of connectors (403), for connecting the peripheral controller (103) to the respective sensor (101 ) and/or the respective actuator (102), and wherein the first volume (V1 ) houses the peripheral controller (103) and the second volume (V2) houses the plurality of connectors (403).

5. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to claim 3 or 4, wherein each peripheral controller (103) comprises an indicator light (406), representative of an operating status of the corresponding module (100), and wherein the indicator light of the respective peripheral controller (103) is visible from the outside.

6. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein each peripheral controller (103) comprises a proximity receiver (408), configured to receive data by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology, and wherein the proximity receiver (408) is arranged on an external surface (ES) of the respective control container (400).

7. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central control unit (200) is connected to at least one peripheral controller (103) by means of a power cable (PC), to electrically feed the corresponding module (100), and through a signal cable (SC), the signal cable (SC) defining a ModBus connection.

8. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the physical property detected by the sensor (101 ) comprises one or more of the following physical parameters:

- temperature; - pressure;

- degree of humidity, and wherein the actuator (102) of the modules (100) of said plurality of modules is configured to perform one or more of the following operations:

- forced air circulation from the outside to the inside of the operating space (OS);

- forced air circulation from inside and expelled outside the operating space (OS);

- heat exchange for cooling or heating air.

9. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control signals (101 ’) are, at least in part, digital signals and/or analogic signals.

10. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each peripheral controller (103) is configured so that it can be placed in any position of the predetermined layout and is configured to be programmed depending on the predetermined layout position in which it is installed.

11. The air handling unit (1 ), AHU, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein all the peripheral controllers (103) include the same number of connections.

12. Method for installing an air handling unit (1 ), AHU, in an operating space, comprising the following steps:

- providing a plurality of modules (100), each including a sensor (101 ), an actuator (102) and a peripheral controller (103), to control the sensor (101 ) and the actuator (102);

- providing a central control unit (200);

- positioning each module (100) in a corresponding operating zone (Z) of the operating space (OS);

- connecting of the central control unit (200) to each peripheral controller (103) of said modules (100) of the plurality of modules, to exchange signals with the respective peripheral controller (103) of each module (100), characterized in that it comprises a step of programming, in which each peripheral controller (103) of said modules (100) of the plurality of modules is programmed by installing a corresponding control logic, based on the sensor and/or the actuator of the correspondent module (100).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the programming step is performed through a proximity data transmission step, bringing a programming device near to a proximity receiver (408) of each peripheral controller (103) of said modules (100) of the plurality of modules, to allow a transmission of data by a near-field communication technology.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, comprising a wiring phase, in which the sensor (101 ) and the actuator (102) are connected to the peripheral controller (103) via a plurality of connectors (403), spaced apart from the respective peripheral controller (103).

15. The method according to any of claims from 12 to 14, wherein, in the programming step, the central control unit (200) receive a corresponding control logic, representative of the sensor and of the actuator that each module is provided with.

16. Method for programming control logics on a plurality of modules (100) of an air handling unit (1 ), AHU, through a programming device (PD) including a processor, the method including the following steps, performed by the processor:

- receiving (F1 ) layout data (10), representative of a predetermined layout, 33 according to which the modules (100) of the plurality of modules are operationally interconnected;

- receiving (F2) control data, representative of a plurality of control logics, each of which is associated with a corresponding module (100) of said plurality of modules, based on an arrangement of the module (100) in the predetermined layout;

- receiving (F3) an identification input (11 ), representative of a selection of a module (100) to be programmed by an operator;

- transferring of selected control data (103’), representative of a control logic associated with the selected module (100) to be programmed, from the programming device (PD) to a corresponding peripheral controller (103) of the module (100) to be programmed.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, in the transferring step, the programming device (PD) transfers the selected control data (103’) transferred to the peripheral controllers to a central control unit (200) of the AHU, which controls each peripheral controller (103).

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the step of transferring the selected control data (103’) is carried out by means of a near-field communication, NFC, technology.

19. A computer program comprising operating instructions configured to perform the steps of the method according to claims 16, 17 or 18, when run on a computer.