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Patent 2880353 Summary

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(12) Patent: (11) CA 2880353
(54) English Title: MEMBRANE SUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR AN ENERGY EXCHANGER
(54) French Title: ENSEMBLE SUPPORT DE MEMBRANE POUR UN ECHANGEUR DE CHALEUR
Status: Granted and Issued
Bibliographic Data
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC):
  • F28F 13/12 (2006.01)
  • F24F 12/00 (2006.01)
  • F28F 3/08 (2006.01)
  • F28F 9/007 (2006.01)
(72) Inventors :
  • ERB, BLAKE NORMAN (Canada)
  • COUTU, KENNETH (Canada)
  • LEPOUDRE, PHILLIP PAUL (Canada)
(73) Owners :
  • NORTEK AIR SOLUTIONS CANADA, INC.
(71) Applicants :
  • NORTEK AIR SOLUTIONS CANADA, INC. (Canada)
(74) Agent: SMART & BIGGAR LP
(74) Associate agent:
(45) Issued: 2020-09-08
(86) PCT Filing Date: 2013-06-26
(87) Open to Public Inspection: 2014-02-27
Examination requested: 2018-05-29
Availability of licence: N/A
Dedicated to the Public: N/A
(25) Language of filing: English

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): Yes
(86) PCT Filing Number: 2880353/
(87) International Publication Number: CA2013000609
(85) National Entry: 2015-01-28

(30) Application Priority Data:
Application No. Country/Territory Date
13/797,062 (United States of America) 2013-03-12
61/692,793 (United States of America) 2012-08-24
61/774,184 (United States of America) 2013-03-07

Abstracts

English Abstract

A membrane support assembly is configured to be used with an energy exchanger, and is configured to be positioned within a fluid channel between first and second membranes. The assembly may include at least one support member configured to span between the first and second membranes, wherein the support member(s) is configured to support the fluid channel, and at least one turbulence promoter connected to the support member(s). The turbulence promoter(s) is configured to promote fluid turbulence within the fluid channel. The fluid turbulence within the fluid channel enhances energy transfer between the fluid channel and the first and second membranes.


French Abstract

L'invention concerne un ensemble support de membrane conçu pour être utilisé avec un échangeur d'énergie et conçu pour être positionné à l'intérieur d'un canal de fluide entre des première et seconde membranes. L'ensemble peut comprendre au moins un élément de support conçu pour s'étendre entre les première et seconde membranes, le ou les élément(s) de support étant conçu(s) pour supporter le canal de fluide, et au moins un turbulateur étant raccordé à l'élément/aux éléments de support. Le(s) turbulateur(s) est/sont conçu(s) pour promouvoir la turbulence du fluide à l'intérieur du canal de fluide. La turbulence du fluide à l'intérieur du canal de fluide améliore le transfert d'énergie entre le canal de fluide et les première et seconde membranes.

Claims

Note: Claims are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION IN WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An energy exchange system configured to exchange heat and moisture
between a first fluid and a second fluid, the energy exchange system
comprising:
first and second membranes;
a fluid channel having a width defined between the first and second membranes,
the
fluid channel configured to allow a first fluid to flow therethrough, the
first fluid contacting
the first and second membranes to exchange energy between the first fluid a
second fluid on
an opposing side of each of the first and second membranes, and the first and
second
membranes separating the first fluid from the second fluid;
a membrane support assembly positioned within the fluid channel, the membrane
support assembly comprising:
a plurality of planar struts, a width of at least one of the planar struts
generally equal to
the width of the fluid channel, the planar struts configured to span between
the first and
second membranes and support the fluid channel; and
a plurality of turbulence promoters connected to and integrally molded and
formed
with the plurality of planar struts as a single piece, wherein each of the
plurality of turbulence
promoters has a central longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to a
central
longitudinal axis of each planar strut, wherein a width of at least one of the
turbulence
promoters is less than the width of the fluid channel, wherein the plurality
of turbulence
promoters is configured to promote fluid turbulence within the fluid channel,
and wherein the
fluid turbulence within the fluid channel enhances transfer of heat and
moisture between the
fluid channel and the first and second membranes.
2. The energy exchange system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
turbulence
promoters have an asymmetrical shape relative to the central longitudinal axis
of the
turbulence promoter, and the asymmetrical shape comprises a rounded leading
end connected
to a blunted end through an intermediate portion.
27

3. The energy exchange system of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the
plurality of
turbulence promoter comprises an elliptical-shaped post.
4. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the
energy
exchanger is a liquid-to-gas membrane energy exchanger.
5. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the
energy
exchanger is an air-to-air membrane energy exchanger.
6. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the
energy
exchanger is a liquid-to-liquid energy exchanger.
7. An energy exchange system configured to exchange energy between an air
stream and a liquid, the energy exchange system comprising:
first and second membranes defining first and second liquid channels;
an air channel having a width defined between the first and second membranes,
wherein the air channel is configured to allow air to pass therethrough, and
wherein the air
contacts the membranes to exchange energy between the air and liquid within
the first and
second liquid channels; and
a membrane support assembly positioned within the air channel between the
first and
second membranes, the membrane support assembly comprising:
a plurality of planar struts spanning the width of the air channel; and
a plurality of turbulence promoters connected to the plurality of planar
struts,
wherein each of the plurality of turbulence promoters has a central
longitudinal axis
that is generally perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of each planar
strut,
wherein a width of at least one of the turbulence promoters is less than the
width of the
fluid channel, wherein the plurality of turbulence promoters is configured to
promote
airflow turbulence within the air channel, and wherein the airflow turbulence
within
the air channel enhances transfer of heat and moisture between the air channel
and the
first and second membranes.
28

8. The energy exchange system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of
turbulence
promoters have an asymmetrical shape relative to the central longitudinal axis
of the
turbulence promoter, and the asymmetrical shape comprises a rounded leading
end connected
to a blunted end through an intermediate portion.
9. The energy exchange system of claim 7 or 8, wherein each of the
plurality of
turbulence promoter comprises an elliptical-shaped post.
10. An energy exchange system configured to exchange energy between first
and
second fluids, the energy exchange system comprising:
first and second membranes defining first and second fluid channels;
a second fluid channel having a width defined between the first and second
membranes, wherein the second fluid channel is configured to allow the second
fluid to pass
therethrough, and wherein the second fluid contacts the membranes to exchange
energy
between the second fluid and the first fluid within the first and second fluid
channels; and
a membrane support assembly positioned within the second fluid channel between
the
first and second membranes, the membrane support assembly comprising:
a plurality of planar struts configured to span between the first and second
membranes, wherein the plurality of planar struts is configured to support the
second
fluid channel, and a width of at least one of the planar struts is generally
equal to the
width of the second fluid channel; and
a plurality of turbulence promoters connected to and integrally molded and
formed with the plurality of planar struts as a single piece, wherein each of
the
plurality of turbulence promoters has a central longitudinal axis that is
generally
perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of each planar strut, wherein a
width of at
least one of the turbulence promoters is less than the width of the second
fluid channel,
wherein the plurality of turbulence promoters is configured to promote fluid
turbulence within the second fluid channel, and wherein the fluid turbulence
within the
29

second channel enhances transfer of heat and moisture between the second
channel
and the first and second membranes.
11. The energy exchanger system of claim 10, wherein the plurality of
turbulence
promoters comprise an asymmetrical shape relative to the central longitudinal
axis of the
turbulence promoter, the asymmetrical shape having a semi-elliptical shape at
a leading end
and a blunted shape at a trailing end.
12. The energy exchanger system of claim 10 or 11, wherein each of the
plurality
of turbulence promoters comprise an elliptical shape.
13. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the
first
fluid includes one of a gas and a liquid, and wherein the second fluid
includes the other gas
and the liquid.
14. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the
first
fluid includes one of a first gas and a first liquid, and where the second
fluid includes one of a
second gas and a second liquid.
15. The energy exchange system of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the
first
and second fluids include air.

Description

Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


MEMBRANE SUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR AN ENERGY EXCHANGER
[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an
energy
exchange system for conditioning air in an enclosed structure, and more
particularly, to a
membrane support assembly for an energy exchanger.
[0003] Enclosed structures, such as occupied buildings, factories
and the like,
generally include a heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system for
conditioning
outdoor ventilated and/or recirculated air. The HVAC system typically includes
a supply
air flow path and an exhaust air flow path. The supply air flow path receives
pre-
conditioned air, for example outside air or outside air mixed with re-
circulated air, and
channels and distributes the pre-conditioned air into the enclosed structure.
The pre-
conditioned air is conditioned by the HVAC system to provide a desired
temperature and
humidity of supply air discharged into the enclosed structure. The exhaust air
flow path
discharges air back to the environment outside the structure. Without energy
recovery,
conditioning the supply air typically requires a significant amount of
auxiliary energy,
particularly in environments having extreme outside air conditions that are
much
different than the required supply air temperature and humidity. Accordingly,
energy
exchange or recovery systems are used to recover energy from the exhaust air
flow path.
Energy recovered from air in the exhaust flow path is utilized to reduce the
energy
required to condition the supply air.
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[0004]
Conventional energy exchange systems may utilize energy recovery
devices (for example, energy wheels and permeable plate exchangers) or heat
exchange
devices (for example, heat wheels, plate exchangers, heat-pipe exchangers and
run-
around heat exchangers) positioned in both the supply air flow path and the
return air
flow path. Liquid-to-air membrane energy exchangers (LAMEEs) may be fluidly
coupled so that a desiccant liquid flows between the LAMEEs in a run-around
loop,
similar to run-around heat exchangers that typically use aqueous glycol as a
coupling
fluid.
[0005] In general,
a LAMEE transfers heat and moisture between a liquid
desiccant solution and air through a thin flexible membrane. A flat plate
LAMEE
includes a series of alternating liquid desiccant and air channels separated
by the
membrane. Typically, the pressure of the liquid within a liquid channel
between
membranes is higher than that of the air pressure outside of the membranes. As
such, the
flexible membranes tend to outwardly bow or bulge into the air channel(s).
[0006] In order to
avoid excessive restriction of the air flow due to membrane
bulge, air channels of a LAMEE are relatively wide compared to the liquid
channels.
Moreover, a support structure is generally provided between membranes to limit
the
amount of membrane bulge. However, the relatively wide air channels and
support
structures typically diminish the performance of the LAMEE. In short,
resistance to heat
and moisture transfer in the air channel is relatively high due to the large
air channel
width, and the support structure may block a significant amount of membrane
transfer
area. Accordingly, a large amount of membrane area is needed to meet
performance
objectives, which adds costs and results in a larger LAMEE. Moreover, the
support
structure within an air channel may produce an excessive pressure drop, which
also
adversely affects operating performance and efficiency of the LAMEE.
[0007] The
transfer of heat from an air channel to membranes within a
parallel plate LAMME is described by the following:
qs = h(T, ¨ Tõ,)
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where qs is the heat flux at the membrane per unit area, h is the local heat
transfer
coefficient, Ts is the local membrane temperature, and T. is the local bulk
mean
temperature of the air. For a given temperature difference, (Ts ¨ T.), the
rate at which
heat is transferred to the membrane depends on the transfer coefficient h,
which is related
to the air channel width and air flow properties. The transfer of mass (for
example,
moisture) is governed by an analogous relationship. That is, the mass flux
depends on a
mass transfer coefficient h., and the difference in concentration (for
example, humidity)
between the bulk air flow and the air at the surface. The coefficients h and
hm are related
to one another through the heat and mass transfer analogy for a given channel
geometry
and flow condition. The transfer coefficient is described by a dimensionless
parameter
referred to as the Nusselt number:
Nu = hDh/k
where Ph is the hydraulic diameter of the air channel, which is equal to twice
the air
channel width for parallel plates, and k is the thermal conductivity of the
air. A typical
LAMEE creates laminar flow (that is, smooth, steady air flow with no
turbulence) in the
air channels
[0008] A known LAMEE includes metal, glass, or plastic rods placed in
the
air channels to maintain the width of the air channel. Additionally metal
screens are used
as extra support structures between the membranes and the rods. The metal rods
may be
sandwiched within an air channel between metal screens, which, in turn, are
sandwiched
between the rods and the membranes. In general, the longitudinal axes of the
rods are
parallel to the air flow. Air flow through the air channel is typically
laminar. However,
the rods typically take up considerable space in the air channel.
Additionally, it has been
found that laminar air flow through the air channels produces relatively low
heat and
moisture transfer rates between the air channel and the membrane.
3

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an
energy
exchange system configured to exchange heat and moisture between a first fluid
and a
second fluid, the energy exchange system comprising: first and second
membranes; a
fluid channel having a width defined between the first and second membranes,
the fluid
channel configured to allow a first fluid to flow therethrough, the first
fluid contacting the
first and second membranes to exchange energy between the first fluid a second
fluid on
an opposing side of each of the first and second membranes, and the first and
second
membranes separating the first fluid from the second fluid; a membrane support
assembly
positioned within the fluid channel, the membrane support assembly comprising:
a
plurality of planar struts, a width of at least one of the planar struts
generally equal to the
width of the fluid channel, the planar struts configured to span between the
first and
second membranes and support the fluid channel; and a plurality of turbulence
promoters
connected to and integrally molded and formed with the plurality of planar
struts as a
single piece, wherein each of the plurality of turbulence promoters has a
central
longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to a central longitudinal
axis of each
planar strut, wherein a width of at least one of the turbulence promoters is
less than the
width of the fluid channel, wherein the plurality of turbulence promoters is
configured to
promote fluid turbulence within the fluid channel, and wherein the fluid
turbulence
within the fluid channel enhances transfer of heat and moisture between the
fluid channel
and the first and second membranes.
[0010]
[0011] The turbulence promoter(s) may include a rounded leading end
(such
as a semi-elliptical shape) connected to a blunted end through an intermediate
portion.
Alternatively, the turbulence promoter(s) may include an elliptical-shaped
post.
[0012]
[0013]
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[0014] Certain embodiments provide An energy exchange system
configured
to exchange energy between an air stream and a liquid, the energy exchange
system
comprising: first and second membranes defining first and second liquid
channels; an air
channel having a width defined between the first and second membranes, wherein
the air
channel is configured to allow air to pass therethrough, and wherein the air
contacts the
membranes to exchange energy between the air and liquid within the first and
second
liquid channels; and a membrane support assembly positioned within the air
channel
between the first and second membranes, the membrane support assembly
comprising: a
plurality of planar struts spanning the width of the air channel; and a
plurality of
turbulence promoters connected to the plurality of planar struts, wherein each
of the
plurality of turbulence promoters has a central longitudinal axis that is
generally
perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of each planar strut, wherein a
width of at
least one of the turbulence promoters is less than the width of the fluid
channel, wherein
the plurality of turbulence promoters is configured to promote airflow
turbulence within
the air channel, and wherein the airflow turbulence within the air channel
enhances
transfer of heat and moisture between the air channel and the first and second
membranes.
[0015] There is also described an energy exchange system configured
to
exchange energy between first and second fluids, the energy exchange system
comprising: first and second membranes defining first and second fluid
channels; a
second fluid channel having a width defined between the first and second
membranes,
wherein the second fluid channel is configured to allow the second fluid to
pass
therethrough, and wherein the second fluid contacts the membranes to exchange
energy
between the second fluid and the first fluid within the first and second fluid
channels; and
a membrane support assembly positioned within the second fluid channel between
the
first and second membranes, the membrane support assembly comprising: a
plurality of
planar struts configured to span between the first and second membranes,
wherein the
plurality of planar struts is configured to support the second fluid channel,
and a width of
at least one of the planar struts is generally equal to the width of the
second fluid channel;
and a plurality of turbulence promoters connected to and integrally molded and
formed
CA 2880353 2019-10-29

with the plurality of planar struts as a single piece, wherein each of the
plurality of
turbulence promoters has a central longitudinal axis that is generally
perpendicular to a
central longitudinal axis of each planar strut, wherein a width of at least
one of the
turbulence promoters is less than the width of the second fluid channel,
wherein the
plurality of turbulence promoters is configured to promote fluid turbulence
within the
second fluid channel, and wherein the fluid turbulence within the second
channel
enhances transfer of heat and moisture between the second channel and the
first and
second membranes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of an energy exchange
system,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0017] Figure 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a liquid-to-
air membrane
energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of panels within an energy
exchange
cavity of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an
embodiment of the
present disclosure.
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[0019] Figure 4
illustrates a front view of a membrane support assembly
between membranes of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to
an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 5 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] Figure 6 illustrates a front end view of a membrane support
assembly,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of a membrane support assembly,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] Figure 8 illustrates a turbulence promoter, according to an
embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0024] Figure 9 illustrates a turbulence promoter, according to an
embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0025] Figure 10 illustrates a turbulence promoter, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 11 illustrates a turbulence promoter, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] Figure 12 illustrates a top view of a membrane support assembly,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] Figure 13 illustrates a top view of a membrane support assembly,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] Figure 14 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
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[0030] Figure 15 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] Figure 16 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] Figure 17 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] Figure 18 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] Figure 19 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] Figure 20 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0036] Figure 21 illustrates an isometric view of a fluid-to-fluid
membrane
energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description
of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with
the
appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular
and
proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding
plural of said
elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore,
references to
"one embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence
of
additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover,
unless
explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an
element or a
plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such
elements
not having that property.
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[0038] It has been found that heat and mass transfer coefficients can be
substantially increased by using a transfer enhancement device, such as a
turbulence
promoter, within a fluid channel, such as an air channel, of an energy
exchange system,
such as a LAMEE, or various other fluid-to-fluid energy exchangers, such as an
air-to-air
energy exchanger, or liquid-to-liquid energy exchanger. In a LAMEE, for
example,
transfer enhancement can be accomplished through the creation of unsteady flow
patterns, such as eddies, vortices, or other such turbulence, in the air flow.
The
production of turbulence in the air flow increases the transfer potential
because eddies,
vortices, and other such turbulence vigorously mix the air within an air
channel toward a
membrane of the LAMEE. A wide variety of solid shapes placed in the air
channel can
produce eddies and generate mixing in the air flow. An efficient and high
performance
transfer enhancement device produces a significant enhancement in transfer
rates without
creating an excessive pressure drop in the air flow. Excessive pressure drop
may be
detrimental to operating performance and efficiency because a greater amount
of fan
power may be needed to move air through the air channel. .
[0039] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of an energy exchange
system
100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 is
configured
to partly or fully condition air supplied to a structure 101. The system 100
may include
an inlet 102 for a pre-conditioned air flow path 104. The pre-conditioned air
flow path
104 may include outside air, air from a building adjacent to the enclosed
structure 101, or
air from a room within the enclosed structure 101. Airflow in the pre-
conditioned air
flow path 104 may be moved through the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 by a
fan 106.
The fan 106 directs the pre-conditioned air flow through path 104 to a supply
air liquid-
to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) 108. The supply air LAMEE 108
conditions the pre-conditioned air flow in path 104 to generate a change in
air
temperature and humidity (for example, to partly or fully pre-condition the
air) for a
supply air flow condition to be discharged into the enclosed space 101. During
a winter
mode operation, the supply air LAMEE 108 may condition the pre-conditioned air
flow
path 104 by adding heat and moisture to the pre-conditioned air in flow path
104. In a
summer mode operation, the supply air LAM EE 108 may condition the pre-
conditioned
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air flow path 104 by removing heat and moisture from the pre-conditioned air
in flow
path 104. The pre-conditioned air 110 may be channeled to an HVAC system 112
of the
enclosed structure 101. The HVAC system 112 may further condition the pre-
conditioned air 110 to generate the desired temperature and humidity for the
supply air
114 that is supplied to the enclosed structure 101.
[0040] As shown in Figure 1, one fan 106 may be located upstream of the
LAMEE 108. Optionally, the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 may be moved by a
down-stream fan and/or by multiple fans or a fan array or before and after
each LAMEE
in the system.
[0041] Return air 116 is channeled out of the enclosed structure 101. A
mass
flow rate portion 118 of the return air 116 may be returned to the HVAC system
112.
Another mass flow rate portion 119 of the return air 116 may be channeled to a
return air
or regeneration LAMEE 120. The portions 118 and 119 may be separated with a
damper
121 or the like. For example, 80% of the return air 116 may be channeled to
the HVAC
system 112 and 20% of the return air 116 may be channeled to the return air
LAMEE
120. The return air LAMEE 120 exchanges energy between the portion 119 of the
return
air 116 and the preconditioned air 110 in the supply air LAMEE 108. During a
winter
mode operation, the return air LAMEE 120 collects heat and moisture from the
portion
119 of the return air 116. During a summer mode operation, the return air
LAMEE 120
discharges heat and moisture into the portion 119 of the return air 116. The
return air
LAMEE 120 generates exhaust air 122. The exhaust air 122 is discharged from
the
structure 101 through an outlet 124. A fan 126 may be provided to move the
exhaust air
122 from the return air LAMEE 120. The system 100 may include multiple fans
126 or
one or more fan arrays located either up-stream or down-stream (as in Figure
1) of the
return air LAMEE 120.
[0042] A desiccant fluid 127 flows between the supply air LAMEE 108 and
the return air LAMEE 120. The desiccant fluid 127 transfers the heat and
moisture
between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120. The system 100
may include desiccant storage tanks 128 in fluid communication between the
supply air
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LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120. The storage tanks 128 store the
desiccant
fluid 127 as it is channeled between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return
air
LAMEE 120. Optionally, the system 100 may not include both storage tanks 128
or may
have more than two storage tanks. Pumps 130 are provided to move the desiccant
fluid
127 from the storage tanks 128 to one of the supply air LAMEE 108 or the
return air
LAMEE 120. The illustrated embodiment includes two pumps 130. Optionally, the
system 100 may be configured with as few as one pump 130 or more than two
pumps
130. The desiccant fluid 127 flows between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the
return air
LAMEE 120 to transfer heat and moisture between the conditioned air 110 and
the
portion 118 of the return air 116.
[0043] Turbulent flow conditions are induced in the air and liquid flow
channels of the LAMEEs by selecting a distribution and geometric shape for the
air and
liquid flow channel spacers in the LAMEE. The turbulence is used to enhance
the heat
and mass transfer convection coefficients in the air flow channels which may
be used to
increase the effectiveness and/or decrease the LAMEE size. In certain
embodiments,
turbulence in the liquid flow channels is facilitated to enhance the bulk mean
flow
distribution (and eliminate laminar flow fingering and mat-distributions) and
increase the
convective heat and moisture transfer coefficients (for example, decrease mal-
distributions in the liquid flows) because the physical effect increases the
effectiveness of
a given LAMEE.
[0044] Figure 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a LAMEE 300,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The LAMEE 300 may be
used as
the supply air LAMEE 108 and/or the return or exhaust air LAMEE 120 (shown in
Figure 1). The LAMEE 300 includes a housing 302 having a body 304. The body
304
includes an air inlet end 306 and an air outlet end 308. A top 310 extends
between the air
inlet end 306 and the air outlet end 308. A stepped-down top 312 may be
positioned at
the air inlet end 306. The stepped-down top 312 may be stepped a distance 314
from the
top 310. A bottom 316 extends between the air inlet end 306 and the air outlet
end 308.
A stepped-up bottom 318 may be positioned at the air outlet end 308. The
stepped-up

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bottom 318 may be stepped a distance 320 from the bottom 316. In certain
embodiments,
the stepped-up bottom 318 or stepped-down top 312 sections may have different
sizes of
steps or no step at all. Alternatively, a stepped-up top may be positioned at
the air inlet
end or a stepped-down bottom may be positioned at the air outlet end.
[0045] An air inlet 322 is positioned at the air inlet end 306. An air
outlet 324
is positioned at the air outlet end 308. Sides 326 extend between the air
inlet 322 and the
air outlet 324.
[0046] An energy exchange cavity 330 extends through the housing 302 of
the LAMEE 300. The energy exchange cavity 330 extends from the air inlet end
306 to
the air outlet end 308. An air stream 332 is received in the air inlet 322 and
flows
through the energy exchange cavity 330. The air stream 332 is discharged from
the
energy exchange cavity 330 at the air outlet 324. The energy exchange cavity
330
includes a plurality of panels 334.
[0047] A desiccant inlet reservoir 338 may be positioned on the stepped-
up
bottom 318. The desiccant inlet reservoir 338 may have a height 340 equal to
the
distance 320 between the bottom 316 and the stepped-up bottom 318.
Alternatively, the
liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 338 may have any height that meets a desired
performance
of the LAMEE 300. The desiccant inlet reservoir 338 extends a length 339 of
the
LAMEE body 304. The length 339 that is configured to meet a desired
performance of
the LAMEE 300. In an embodiment, the desiccant inlet reservoir 338 may extend
no
more than one fourth of the length 327 of the LAMEE body 304. Alternatively,
the
desiccant inlet reservoir 338 may extend along one fifth, for example, of the
length 327
of the LAMEE body 304.
[0048] The liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 338 is configured to receive
desiccant 341 from a storage tank 128 (shown in Figure 1). The desiccant inlet
reservoir
338 includes an inlet 342 in flow communication with the storage tank 128. The
desiccant 341 is received through the inlet 342. The desiccant inlet reservoir
338
includes an outlet that is in fluid communication with desiccant channels 376
in the
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energy exchange cavity 330. The liquid desiccant 341 flows through the outlet
into the
desiccant channels 376. The desiccant 341 flows along the panels 334 through
the
desiccant channels 376 to a desiccant outlet reservoir 346.
[0049] The
desiccant outlet reservoir 346 may be positioned on the stepped-
down top 312 of the housing 302. Alternatively, the desiccant outlet reservoir
346 may
be positioned at any location along the top 312 of the LAMEE housing 302 or
alternatively on the side of the reservoir with a flow path connected to all
the panels.
The desiccant outlet reservoir 346 has a height 348 that may be equal to the
distance 314
between the top 310 and the stepped-down top 312. The desiccant outlet
reservoir 346
extends along the top 312 of the LAMEE housing 302 for a length 350. In an
embodiment, the length 350 may be no more than one fourth the length 327 of
the flow
panel exchange area length 302. In another embodiment, the length 350 may be
one fifth,
for example, the length 327 of the panel exchange area length 302.
[0050] The
desiccant outlet reservoir 346 is configured to receive desiccant
341 from the desiccant channels 376 in the energy exchange cavity 330. The
desiccant
outlet reservoir 346 includes an inlet 352 in flow communication with the
desiccant
channels 376. The desiccant 341 is received from the desiccant channels 376
through the
inlet 352. The desiccant outlet reservoir 346 includes an outlet 354 that is
in fluid
communication with a storage tank 128. The desiccant 341 flows through the
outlet 354
to the storage tank 128 where the desiccant 341 is stored for use in another
LAMEE 300.
In an alternative embodiment, the desiccant outlet reservoir 346 may be
positioned along
the bottom 318 of the LAMEE housing 302 and the desiccant inlet reservoir 338
may be
positioned along the top 310 of the housing 302.
[0051] As shown in
Figure 2, the LAMEE 300 includes one liquid desiccant
outlet reservoir 346 and one liquid desiccant inlet reservoir 338.
Alternatively, the
LAMEE 300 may include liquid desiccant outlet reservoirs 346 and liquid
desiccant inlet
reservoirs 338 on the top and bottom of each of each end of a LAMEE 300. A
liquid
flow controller may direct the liquid flow to either the top or bottom.
12

[0052] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of the panels 334 within
the energy
exchange cavity 300 of the LAMEE 300, according to an embodiment of the
present
disclosure. The liquid flow panels 334 form a liquid desiccant channel 376
that may be
confined by semi-permeable membranes 378 on either side and is configured to
carry
desiccant 341 therethrough. The semi-permeable membranes 378 are arranged in
parallel
to form air channels 336 with an average flow channel width of 337 and liquid
desiccant
channels 376 with an average flow channel width of 377. In an embodiment, the
semi-
permeable membranes 378 are spaced to form uniform air channels 336 and liquid
desiccant channels 376. The air stream 332 (shown in Figure 2) travels through
the air
channels 336 between the semi-permeable membranes 378. The desiccant 341 in
each
desiccant channel 376 exchanges heat and moisture with the air stream 332 in
the air
channels 336 through the semi-permeable membranes 378. The air channels 336
alternate with the liquid desiccant channels 376. Except for the two side
panels of the
energy exchange cavity, each air channel 336 may be positioned between
adjacent liquid
desiccant channels 376.
[0053] In order to minimize or otherwise eliminate the liquid
desiccant
channels 376 from outwardly bulging or bowing, membrane support assemblies may
be
positioned within the air channels 336. The membrane support assemblies are
configured
to support the membranes, as well as promote turbulent air flow between the
air channels
336 and the membranes 378.
[0054] The LAMEE 300 may be a LAMEE as described in WO 2011/161547,
entitled "Liquid-To-Air Membrane Energy Exchanger," filed June 22, 2011.
Liquid
panel assemblies that may be used in the LAMEE 300 are described and shown in
U.S.
Patent No. 9,816,760, entitled "Liquid Panel Assembly.
[0055] It is to be understood that the embodiments shown and
described with
respect Figure 2 (and the entire application, in general) may also be used
with respect to
13
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various types of fluid-to-fluid energy exchangers, such as gas-to-gas, liquid-
to-liquid, or
liquid-to-gas energy exchangers. For example, air channels may be used in
place of
desiccant channels.
[0056] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of a membrane support assembly
400
between membranes 378 of a LAMEE, according to an embodiment. Optionally, the
membrane support assembly 400 may be positioned between membranes in an air-to-
air
membrane energy exchanger, or a liquid-to-liquid energy exchanger. For
example, the
membranes 378 may separate air channels, or liquid channels. While the
membrane
support assembly 400 is shown between membranes of a LAMEE, such as the LAMEE
300, the membrane support assembly 400 may be used with respect to any type of
LAMEE or energy exchange system that uses membranes. The LAMEE 300 shown and
described with respect to Figure 3 is merely exemplary. Embodiments, such as
the
membrane support assembly 400 and other membrane support assemblies described
in
the present application are in no way limited to use with the LAMEE 300.
[0057] The membrane support assembly 400 is positioned within an air
channel 336 between neighboring membranes 378 of liquid desiccant channels
376. The
membrane support assembly 400 includes support members, such as struts 402
connected
to turbulence promoters 404. The turbulence promoters 404 may be perpendicular
to the
support struts 402. As shown in Figure 4, the support struts 402 may be
horizontally
oriented, while the eddy turbulence promoters 404 may be vertically oriented.
[0058] Each support strut 402 includes terminal ends 406 and 408 that
abut
into a membrane 378. In general, the support struts 402 span the width ws of
the air
channel 336.
[0059] Each turbulence promoter 404 may pass through a central plane C
of
each support strut 402. The widths wt of the turbulence promoters 404 are less
than the
widths ws of the support struts 402. The turbulence promoters 404 may be
located about
a central vertical plane X of the air channel 336. Further, the width wt of
the turbulence
promoters 404 may extend a short distance on either side of the central plane
x.
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[0060] The
membrane support assembly 400 may be integrally molded and
formed as a single piece. For example, the membrane support assembly 400 may
be
integrally molded and formed of injection molded plastic. Optionally, the
membrane
support assembly 400 may be formed of metal. Alternatively, the support struts
402 and
the turbulence promoters 404 may be separately formed and connected to one
another. In
an embodiment, the support struts 402 may be formed of metal, while the
turbulence
promoters 404 may be formed of plastic, or vice versa.
[0061] In
operation, the support struts 402 provide bracing support between
neighboring membranes 378, while the turbulence promoters 404 cause turbulence
in the
airflow within the air channel 336. Heat and mass transfer coefficients are
substantially
increased through the membrane support assembly 400 within the air channel
336. The
turbulence promoters 404 generate turbulence, such as unsteady flow patterns,
in the air
flow, which enhances energy exchange between the air within the air channel
336 and the
desiccant within the liquid desiccant channels 376. The turbulence in the air
flow
increases the transfer potential because eddy and vertical structures
vigorously mix the air
from the center x of the air channel 336 toward the membranes 378. The
turbulence
promoters 404 may be a wide variety of solid shapes, as explained below.
[0062] Figure 5
illustrates an isometric view of the membrane support
assembly 400, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 400 may include three parallel support struts 402 and two
spaced-apart
turbulence promoters 404 that are perpendicular to the support struts 402.
However,
more or less support struts 402 and turbulence promoters 404 may be used. For
example,
the membrane support assembly 400 may include two support struts 402 and one
turbulence promoter 404. Also, for example, the membrane support assembly 400
may
include four support struts 402 and four turbulence promoters 404.
[0063] As shown in
Figure 5, bottom ends 410 of the turbulence promoters
410 may extend downwardly past the lower support strut 402a. Similarly, upper
ends
411 of the turbulence promoters 410 may extend upwardly past the upper support
strut
402b. The lower and upper ends 410 and 411, respectively, of the turbulence
promoters

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410 may abut against a base and upper wall, respectively, of a housing that
defines an
energy exchange cavity of a LAMEE. As such, the lower and upper ends 410 and
411
may stabilize and orient the membrane support assembly 400 within the energy
exchange
cavity of the LAMEE. Optionally, the lower and upper ends 410 and 411 of the
turbulence promoters 404 may terminate at an interface with the lower and
upper support
struts 402a and 402b, respectively. In such an embodiment, the lower and upper
support
struts 402a and 402b stabilize and orient the membrane support assembly 400
within the
energy exchange cavity of the LAMEE.
[0064] The
membrane support assembly 400 is positioned and oriented within
an air channel between membranes of a LAMEE so that air flow denoted by arrows
A
flows over and/or across the turbulence promoters 404. Air flow A encounters a
leading,
rounded (such as a semi-elliptical shape) end 412 of each turbulence promoter
404 and
passes around an intermediate portion 414, and creates turbulence, such as
eddies and/or
vortices, as it passes around a straight-edge blunted end 416 (as shown in
Figure 7, in
particular). The support struts 402 provide structural support for the air
channel, as
shown in Figure 4, for example. The support struts 402 prevent neighboring
membranes
from outwardly bulging or bowing. The support struts 402 maintain the width of
the air
channel, and also provide support to the flexible membranes.
[0065] The
turbulence promoters 404 generate unsteady airflow, eddies,
vortices, and other such turbulence in the air stream, which enhances heat and
moisture
transfer rates between the air and the membranes that define the liquid
desiccant
channels. The turbulence promoters 404 generate vortex shedding, and the
mixing of air
(as opposed to laminar flow) increases the heat and moisture transfer rates to
the
membranes.
[0066] Figure 6
illustrates a front end view of the membrane support
assembly 400, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The number
of
support struts 402, and the width distance d, between the support struts 402
may vary
depending on a desired level of membrane and air channel support. As shown in
Figure
6, as air flow A encounters the leading, rounded end 412 of the turbulence
promoter 404,
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the air flow A separates around the turbulence promoter 404, and creates
turbulence as it
passes around and past the turbulence promoter 404.
[0067] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of the membrane support assembly
400,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As noted above, each
turbulence
promoter 404 includes a leading, rounded end 412 integrally connected to an
intermediate
portion 414, which, in turn, connects to a straight-edge blunted end 416. As
the air flow
A encounters the leading end 412, the air flow separates around the turbulence
promoter
404 at area A'. As separated airflow passes around the intermediate portion
414 and the
blunted end 416, the air flow mixes and creates vortices, eddies, and other
such
turbulence at area A".
[0068] The leading, rounded end 412 and the straight-edge blunted end
416
provide an efficient shape for turbulence generation. Alternatively, the
turbulence
promoters 400 may be various other shapes configured to promote turbulence in
airflow.
[0069] Figure 8 illustrates a turbulence promoter 500, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. The turbulence promoter 500 may be
connected to
one or more support struts 502, as explained above. The turbulence promoter
500 may be
a cylindrical post 504. The cylindrical turbulence promoter 500 may be used in
place of
any of the turbulence promoters described above. The cylindrical shape of the
turbulence
promoter 500 is a ubiquitous shape, and easy to manufacture.
[0070] Figure 9 illustrates a turbulence promoter 600, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. The turbulence promoter 600 may be
connected to
one or more support struts 602, as explained above. The turbulence promoter
600 may be
shaped as a square or rectangular member 604, such as a plate, panel, post, or
the like.
The turbulence promoter 600 may be used in place of any of the turbulence
promoters
described above. The turbulence promoter 600 may be efficiently formed through
extrusion and punching operations.
[0071] Figure 10 illustrates a turbulence promoter 700, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. The turbulence promoter 700 may be
connected to
17

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one or more support struts 702, as explained above. The turbulence promoter
700 may be
shaped as an elliptical member 704, such as a panel, plate, post, or the like.
The
turbulence promoter 600 may be used in place of any of the turbulence
promoters
described above. The elliptical turbulence promoter 700 is configured for low
drag and
low pressure drop with respect to the airflow.
[0072] Referring
to Figures 8-10, the turbulence promoters may be various
shapes and sizes that are not shown. The turbulence promoters are shaped and
sized to
promote turbulent, as opposed to laminar, airflow.
[0073] Figure 11
illustrates a turbulence promoter 800, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. The turbulence promoter 800 may be
connected to
one or more support struts 802, as explained above. The turbulence promoter
800
includes a planar fin 804, such as a mesh screen, that is perpendicular to the
support strut
802, and is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 806 of the support strut
802. The
planar fin 804 may be formed of a metal, such as aluminum. The planar fin 804
may
include multiple openings 808, such as holes, perforations, channels,
cavities, or the like,
formed therethrough. As airflow A passes into and around the turbulence
promoter 800,
the openings 808 cause the airflow A to swirl, mix, or otherwise pass
therethrough,
causing turbulence, such as eddies or vortices.
[0074] The
openings 808 may be formed through a lattice 810. Alternatively,
the openings 808 may be formed at various points in the planar fin 804.
Additionally,
alternatively, the planar fin 804 may not be parallel with the longitudinal
axis 806.
Instead, the planar fin 804 may be angled with respect to the longitudinal
axis 806. For
example, the planar fin 804 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 806.
In such an
embodiment, the planar fin 804 may or may not span between neighboring
membranes
within a LAMEE.
[0075] The
turbulence promoter 800 is configured to create shear layer
destabilization. The turbulence promoter 800 may be used in place of any of
the
turbulence promoters described above.
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[0076] Figure 12 illustrates a top view of a membrane support assembly
900,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The membrane support
assembly
900 includes support struts 902 connected to turbulence promoters 904. The
membrane
support assembly 900 is similar to the membrane support assembly shown in
Figures 4-7,
except that the turbulence promoters 904 may be offset with respect to a
longitudinal axis
906 of each support strut 902. As shown, the turbulence promoters 904
alternately offset
with respect to the longitudinal axis 906, such that the turbulence promoters
904a and
904c are above the longitudinal axis 906, while the turbulence promoters 904b
and 904d
are below the longitudinal axis 906. Alternatively, the turbulence promoters
904 may be
offset in a non-alternating pattern. For example, the turbulence promoters
904a and 904b
may both be above or below the longitudinal axis 906, while the turbulence
promoters
904c and 904d may also both be above or below the longitudinal axis 906.
Moreover,
three of the four turbulence promoters 904 may be offset to one side of the
longitudinal
axis 906. When the turbulence promoters 904 are offset from the longitudinal
axis 906,
such that they are closer to a membrane, heat and moisture transfer between
the air
stream and the membranes may be increased (as compared to when the turbulence
promoters are aligned along the longitudinal axis).
[0077] More or less turbulence promoters 904 than those shown may be
used.
The turbulence promoters 904 may be replaced with any of the turbulence
promoters
shown in Figures 8-10.
[0078] Figure 13 illustrates a top view of a membrane support assembly
1000,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The membrane support
assembly
1000 includes support struts 1002 connected to turbulence promoters 1004. The
turbulence promoters 1004 may be square posts, as shown. The turbulence
promoters
1004 may be proximate lateral edges 1006 of the support struts 1002. In this
manner,
each turbulence promoters 1004 may directly abut into a membrane, thereby
providing
additional support to the membrane.
[0079] Neighboring turbulence promoters 1004 may be offset with respect
to
the longitudinal axis 1008 in an alternating fashion, as shown. Optionally,
the turbulence
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promoters 1002 may not alternate in a regular repeating fashion. More or less
turbulence
promoters 1004 than those shown may be used. The turbulence promoters 1004 may
be
replaced with any of the turbulence promoters shown in Figures 4-10.
[0080] Figure 14 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 1100 includes support struts 1102 connected to turbulence
promoters
1104. The membrane support assembly 1100 is similar to the membrane support
assembly shown in Figures 4-7, except that the support struts 1102 may have a
wave
shape, with undulating, rounded peaks 1106 and valleys 1108. The waved support
struts
1102 provide support to the membranes of a LAMEE over greater distances, as
the
effective support distance ranges from a peak 1106 to a valley 1108 of an
individual
support strut 1102. The waved support struts 1102 contact the membranes over a
greater
distance.
[0081] Any of the turbulence promoters shown in Figures 8-11 may be
used
in place of the turbulence promoters 1104.
[0082] Figure 15 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1200, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 1200 includes support struts 1202 connected to turbulence
promoters
1204. The membrane support assembly 1200 is similar to the membrane support
assembly shown in Figures 4-7, except that the support struts 1202 may be
scalloped,
with thin connection beams 1206 connected to wider connection joints 1208. The
scalloped support struts 1202 are slimmer and lighter than the support struts
shown in
Figures 4-7, for example. Additionally, the thin connection beams 1206 provide
space
between the membranes, thereby providing additional space for turbulent
airflow to
impact the membranes.
[0083] Any of the turbulence promoters shown in Figures 8-11 may be
used
in place of the turbulence promoters 1204.

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[0084] Figure 16 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1300, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 1300 includes support struts 1302 connected to turbulence
promoters
1304. The membrane support assembly 1300 is similar to the membrane support
assembly shown in Figures 4-7, except that the support struts 1302 may have
openings
1306, such as perforations, holes, channels, cavities, or the like formed
therethrough.
The openings 1306 promote additional heat and moisture transfer enhancement.
[0085] Openings, such as the openings 1306, may be formed in any of the
support struts shown and described with respect to Figures 4-7 and 12-15.
Further, any
of the turbulence promoters shown in Figures 8-11 may be used in place of the
turbulence
promoters 1304.
[0086] Figure 17 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1400, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Instead
of support
struts, the membrane support assembly 1400 includes support members, such as
horizontal beams 1402 and vertical beams 1404, which provide support to the
assembly
1400, connected together and spaced apart through turbulence-promoting
connection
joints 1403, which may securely connect the support beams 1402 and 1404
together
through a snap fit, latch members, or the like.
[0087] The connection joints 1403 and/or the beams 1402 and/or 1404 may
promote turbulence. As such, the connection joints 1403, the beams 1402, and
the beams
1404 may also be turbulence promoters. The connection joints 1403 and/or the
beams
1402 and/or 1404 may be shaped similar to any of the turbulence promoters
shown and
described with respect to Figures 5-16, for example. The beams 1404 are
located at
either side of the turbulence-promoting connection joints 1403, and, along
with the
support beams 1402, may provide support to membranes of a LAMEE. Turbulent
airflow may pass between and around the beams 1404, as well as between and
around the
turbulence-promoting connection joints 1403 and the support beams 1402.
Because the
support beams 1402 are separated from one another, air gaps 1408 exist between
parallel
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support beams 1402. Air is able to pass into the air gaps 1408, thereby
providing
increased heat and moisture transfer between the air stream and the membranes.
[0088] The
turbulence-promoting connection joints 1403 may be separate and
distinct from the support beams 1402 and the support beams 1404.
Alternatively, the
connection joints 1403 may be integrally formed with either parallel support
beams 1402,
and/or parallel support beams 1404. Also, alternatively, the entire membrane
support
assembly 1400 may be molded and formed as an integral unit.
[0089] Any of the
turbulence promoters shown in Figures 8-11 may be used
in place of the turbulence promoters, such as the support beams 1402 and 1404
and/or the
turbulence-promoting connection joints 1403.
[0090] Figure 18
illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1500, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 1500 includes parallel support struts 1502 connected to
turbulence
promoters 1504. The turbulence promoters 1504 may be perforated screens having
openings 1506 formed therethrough. The
turbulence promoters 1504 may be
perpendicular to the support struts 1502, and may be generally parallel to
longitudinal
axes 1508 of the support struts 1502. Alternatively, the turbulence promoters
1504 may
be waved or angled with respect to the longitudinal axes 1508. Additionally,
any of the
turbulence promoters discussed above may be used in addition to the turbulence
promoters 1504.
[0091] The
turbulence promoters 1504, as perforated screens, create thin
wakes or shear layers in the airflow, which may lead to flow instability and
an early
transition to turbulence. The turbulence promoters 1504 may be formed from
rolled
expanded screens.
[0092] The
membrane support assembly 1500 may be foimed of metal.
Optionally, the membrane support assembly 1500 may be formed of plastic.
Alternatively, the support struts 1502 may be metal or plastic, while the
turbulence
promoters 1504 may be formed of the other of metal or plastic.
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[0093] Figure 19 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 1600, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 1600 includes support beams 1602 and 1604, such as shown in
Figure
17 (but without connection joints), connected to turbulence promoters 1606,
which may
include perforated screens. The support beams 1602, 1604 and the turbulence
promoters
1606 may be integrally molded and formed as a unit.
[0094] The perforated screens 1606 may span portions of parallel
support
beams 1602. The perforated screens 1606 have openings 1608 that promote
turbulent
airflow therethrough. The perforated screens 1606 may span an entire length of
parallel
support beams 1602. The perforated screens 1606 may be regularly spaced
between
portions of the parallel support beams 1602, as shown in Figure 19. The
perforated
screens may be integrally formed with parallel support struts 1602, thereby
connecting
the support struts 1602 together.
[0095] The perforated screens 1606 may be used in addition to, or in
place of,
any of the support struts shown in Figures 4-7 and 12-18. Additionally, any of
the
turbulence promoters shown in Figures 8-11 may be used with the assembly 1600.
[0096] Figure 20 illustrates an isometric view of a membrane support
assembly 2000, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The
membrane
support assembly 2000 includes opposed brackets 2002 and 2004. Each bracket
2002
may be a planar member, such as a fin, plate, sheet, or the like, that
includes one or more
recesses 2004. Each recess 2004 is configured to receive and retain a securing
member
2006, such as a tab, stud, post, column, or other such protuberance, extending
from a
membrane support 2008. The recesses 2004 are configured to securely lock onto
the
securing members 2006, thereby securely locking the membrane support 2008
between
the opposed brackets 2002 and 2004. The opposed brackets 2002 and 2004 may be
configured to be quickly and easily urged into a housing of an energy
exchanger, such as
a LAMEE, an air-to-air exchanger, or the like. The recesses 2004 and securing
members
2006 cooperate to provide interlocking features that securely locks the
membrane support
2008 in place. Alternatively, the membrane support 2008 may include the
recesses, while
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the brackets 2002 and 2004 include the securing members. Also, alternatively,
one of the
brackets 2002 and 2004 may be integrally formed and molded with the membrane
support 2008, while the other is removably secured to the membrane support
2008
through the interlocking features. The interlocking features shown and
described with
respect to Figure 20 may be used with any of the membrane support assemblies
shown
and described in the present application.
[0097] Figure 21 illustrates an isometric view of a fluid-to-fluid
membrane
energy exchanger 2100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
The
energy exchanger 2100 may include a housing 2102 having a base 2102 connected
to
upstanding supports 2104, which, in turn, connect to an upper wall 2106. Fluid
inlets
2108 and 2110 and fluid outlets 2112 and 2114 are defined between the
upstanding
supports 2104. As shown in Figure 21, the housing 2102 is formed as a cube,
but may be
formed as various other shapes.
[0098] A plurality of membranes 2120 are longitudinally aligned from
the
fluid inlet 2110 to the fluid outlet 2114, while a plurality of membranes 2122
are
longitudinally aligned from the fluid inlet 2108 to the fluid outlet 2112. The
membranes
2110 define fluid passages 2130 therebetween, while the membranes 2122 define
fluid
passages 2132 therebetween. The fluid passages 2130 are generally
perpendicular to the
fluid passages 2132. A fluid 2150, such as a gas (for example, air), passes
through the
fluid passages 2130 and exchanges sensible and latent energy with fluid 2152,
such as a
gas (for example, air), that passes through the fluid passages 2132 through
the
membranes 2120 and 2122. The membranes 2120 and 2122 may be supported with
membrane support assemblies, such as any of the membrane support assemblies
described above. The energy exchanger 2100 may be an air-to-air membrane
energy
exchanger, for example.
[0099] As shown and described with respect to Figures 1-21, embodiments
of
the present disclosure provide membrane support assemblies that create a
pathway for air
to flow over a surface of a membrane. The membrane support assemblies enhance
heat
and mass transfer rates within the air channels. The membrane support
assemblies ensure
24

CA 02880353 2015-01-28
WO 2014/029004 PCT/CA2013/000609
that the air channels prevent the membranes from compressing the air channels,
constrain
the amount of membrane bulge, and support membrane seals to reduce the risk of
leaks.
[00100] Embodiments may be used with various types of energy exchangers,
such as liquid-to-air, air-to-air, or liquid-to-liquid membrane energy
exchangers. For
example, the membrane support assemblies described above may be positioned
within an
air or liquid channel between membranes, or within a membrane.
[00101] The membrane support assemblies described above allow for less
membrane surface area within a LAMEE, for example, as the membrane support
assemblies provide turbulent airflow that enhances heat and mass transfer
between the air
channels and the membranes. Consequently, because the membranes may be
smaller, a
cost savings is realized in that less material is used. Further, smaller
membranes lead to
more compact energy exchangers, thereby leading to less packaging volume, and
greater
system configuration and layout flexibility.
[00102] As explained above, embodiments provide membrane support
assemblies that promote turbulent airflow through air channels between
membranes. As
such, embodiments provide increased heat and moisture transfer rates between
the air
channels and membranes, as compared to previously-known systems.
[00103] While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom,
lower,
mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used to describe
embodiments
of the present disclosure, it is understood that such terms are merely used
with respect to
the orientations shown in the drawings. The orientations may be inverted,
rotated, or
otherwise changed, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice
versa,
horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.
[00104] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be
illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described
embodiments (and/or
aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many
modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the
teachings of
the various embodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope.
While the

dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the
parameters
of the various embodiments of the disclosure, the embodiments are by no means
limiting
and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to
those of
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the
various
embodiments of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference
to the
appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims
are
entitled. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are
used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein."
Moreover, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third,"
etc. are used
merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on
their objects.
[00105] This written description uses examples to disclose the various
embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any
person
skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the disclosure,
including making
and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The
patentable scope of the various embodiments of the disclosure is defined by
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 the examples
have structural
elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the
examples
include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the
literal
languages of the claims.
26
CA 2880353 2019-10-29

Representative Drawing
A single figure which represents the drawing illustrating the invention.
Administrative Status

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Please note that "Inactive:" events refers to events no longer in use in our new back-office solution.

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Event History

Description Date
Inactive: Late MF processed 2022-12-21
Letter Sent 2022-06-27
Inactive: Office letter 2021-01-13
Common Representative Appointed 2020-11-07
Inactive: Patent correction requested-Formalities 2020-10-08
Inactive: Patent correction requested-Formalities 2020-10-08
Inactive: Patent correction requested-Formalities 2020-10-08
Grant by Issuance 2020-09-08
Inactive: Cover page published 2020-09-07
Inactive: COVID 19 - Deadline extended 2020-07-16
Pre-grant 2020-07-03
Inactive: Final fee received 2020-07-03
Inactive: COVID 19 - Deadline extended 2020-07-02
Inactive: COVID 19 - Deadline extended 2020-06-10
Notice of Allowance is Issued 2020-03-10
Letter Sent 2020-03-10
4 2020-03-10
Notice of Allowance is Issued 2020-03-10
Inactive: Approved for allowance (AFA) 2020-02-24
Inactive: Q2 passed 2020-02-24
Common Representative Appointed 2019-10-30
Common Representative Appointed 2019-10-30
Amendment Received - Voluntary Amendment 2019-10-29
Inactive: S.30(2) Rules - Examiner requisition 2019-04-29
Inactive: Report - No QC 2019-04-29
Letter Sent 2018-06-06
Letter Sent 2018-06-06
Request for Examination Received 2018-05-29
Request for Examination Requirements Determined Compliant 2018-05-29
Inactive: Single transfer 2018-05-29
All Requirements for Examination Determined Compliant 2018-05-29
Change of Address or Method of Correspondence Request Received 2018-03-28
Inactive: Cover page published 2015-03-04
Inactive: Notice - National entry - No RFE 2015-02-18
Inactive: Applicant deleted 2015-02-18
Inactive: IPC assigned 2015-02-03
Inactive: IPC assigned 2015-02-03
Inactive: IPC assigned 2015-02-03
Inactive: IPC assigned 2015-02-03
Application Received - PCT 2015-02-03
Inactive: First IPC assigned 2015-02-03
Inactive: Notice - National entry - No RFE 2015-02-03
National Entry Requirements Determined Compliant 2015-01-28
Application Published (Open to Public Inspection) 2014-02-27

Abandonment History

There is no abandonment history.

Maintenance Fee

The last payment was received on 2020-06-19

Note : If the full payment has not been received on or before the date indicated, a further fee may be required which may be one of the following

  • the reinstatement fee;
  • the late payment fee; or
  • additional fee to reverse deemed expiry.

Patent fees are adjusted on the 1st of January every year. The amounts above are the current amounts if received by December 31 of the current year.
Please refer to the CIPO Patent Fees web page to see all current fee amounts.

Owners on Record

Note: Records showing the ownership history in alphabetical order.

Current Owners on Record
NORTEK AIR SOLUTIONS CANADA, INC.
Past Owners on Record
BLAKE NORMAN ERB
KENNETH COUTU
PHILLIP PAUL LEPOUDRE
Past Owners that do not appear in the "Owners on Record" listing will appear in other documentation within the application.
Documents

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Document
Description 
Date
(yyyy-mm-dd) 
Number of pages   Size of Image (KB) 
Description 2019-10-28 27 1,358
Claims 2019-10-28 4 162
Description 2015-01-27 26 1,339
Drawings 2015-01-27 9 234
Claims 2015-01-27 7 243
Abstract 2015-01-27 1 63
Representative drawing 2015-01-27 1 8
Cover Page 2015-03-03 1 42
Representative drawing 2020-08-09 1 5
Cover Page 2020-08-09 1 40
Cover Page 2021-01-12 2 262
Maintenance fee payment 2024-06-18 2 68
Notice of National Entry 2015-02-02 1 205
Reminder of maintenance fee due 2015-03-01 1 111
Notice of National Entry 2015-02-17 1 193
Reminder - Request for Examination 2018-02-26 1 117
Acknowledgement of Request for Examination 2018-06-05 1 174
Courtesy - Certificate of registration (related document(s)) 2018-06-05 1 102
Commissioner's Notice - Application Found Allowable 2020-03-09 1 549
Commissioner's Notice - Maintenance Fee for a Patent Not Paid 2022-08-07 1 541
PCT 2015-01-27 2 106
Request for examination 2018-05-28 2 69
Examiner Requisition 2019-04-28 4 232
Amendment / response to report 2019-10-28 21 894
Final fee 2020-07-02 5 134
Correction certificate 2020-10-01 2 410
Patent Correction Requested 2020-10-07 4 173
Courtesy - Office Letter 2021-01-12 2 408