INTERACTIVE OCCUPANT-TRACKING FAN FOR INDOOR COMFORT AND ENERGY CONSERVATION

摘要

An occupant-tracking fan apparatus is provided with a source of forced air such as a fan nozzle in a movable support with multi-axis positioning and a controller with sensors controlling the moveable support directing forced air toward a target detected by the sensors. Targeting in real-time can be through camera imaging or with an array of ultrasonic transmitters/receivers that can identify occupant shape, range and thermal profile, even when the occupant is moving. The targeting fan cools by aiming a stream of air at the occupant increasing skin convection. The apparatus can also target thermal extremes and de-stratify air temperature gradients. Settings can be individualized by remote control, RFID tag or even prescribed gestures interpreted by the camera and controller. The apparatus may be part of a building wide system with a central controller that monitors sensors, controls each fan and the building HVAC systems.