Method and apparatus for passively controlling airflow

摘要

A system and method for providing a substantially constant volume exhaust or ventilation air terminal system is shown for controlling exhaust and/or return airflow rates in a system having a central fan or ventilator. The system and method permits zone-by-zone or area-by-area airflow regulation or control in non-demand areas in response to a demand or call for ventilation in demand areas. In one embodiment, the system employs at least one constant airflow controller or regulator situated in a damper. Another embodiment shows a combination of a first constant airflow controller or regulator situated or mounted on a damper with a second constant airflow controller or regulator situated in a duct associated with the damper. In still another embodiment, a constant airflow controller or regulator is provided in a duct, and used in combination with a solid damper.

主权项

1. A method for maintaining a substantially constant airflow in a ventilation system having a plurality of ducts, said method comprising the steps of:
situating a first constant airflow regulator and a second constant airflow regulator in series in one of said plurality of ducts to passively regulate airflow at a first rate through said one of said plurality of ducts; causing airflow through said one of said plurality of ducts to be regulated to a second rate which is higher than the first rate by functionally removing said first constant airflow regulator in response to a demand signal as said airflow through at least one other of said plurality of ducts is caused to flow at said first rate; and using said first constant airflow regulator and said second constant airflow regulator to regulate said airflow passing through said one of said plurality of ducts to said first rate or said second rate, respectively, by passively responding to dynamic fluctuations in duct pressure; said first and second constant airflow regulators requiring no direct electric or pneumatic source, but rather, utilizing said duct pressure to passively regulate airflow.