EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEM

Abstract

A system and method for air conditioning comprises a heat transfer box configured to cool water supplied to an evaporative cooling unit, an output line configured to transport water from the evaporative cooling unit to the heat transfer box, and a cool water supply line configured to transport water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/389,646 filed Jul. 15, 2022, entitled “EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEM.” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/389,646 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments are generally related to cooling systems and methods. Embodiments are further related to evaporative cooling systems and methods. Embodiments are further related to air conditioning. Embodiments are further related to aftermarket evaporative cooling equipment to improve the function of evaporative coolers.

BACKGROUND

Most indoor spaces are equipped with a temperature control system. Many people elect to use “refrigerated air” systems, which use a heat transfer system to intake warmer ambient air, cool the air, and then output the cooler air back into the indoor environment. Such systems are advantageous because they are convenient and offer excellent air conditioning when required. However, refrigerated air system are also expensive, both to install and to operate. Aside from the monetary costs, refrigerated air systems also include components which use significant energy, and are therefore, do not offer desirable energy efficiency.

One solution is the use of evaporative cooling. Evaporative coolers take advantage of the evaporation of water to cool passing air. The cooled air can then be fed into an indoor environment. Evaporative air conditioning is a more cost effective approach to air conditioning as compared to refrigerated air systems, both in terms of initial installation and operation. Likewise, evaporative systems use far less energy than standard refrigerated air systems.

While there are numerous advantages to evaporative cooling, there are also certain drawbacks. For example, evaporative cooling systems require a relatively dry ambient climate. Evaporation is inefficient or impossible in environments with high humidity, or dew point. In addition, evaporative cooling systems currently are limited to cooling of approximately 20 degrees below the surrounding outdoor temperature. As a result, on a hot day, the cooling offered by an evaporative cooling system may not be sufficient to make the indoor environment comfortable.

As such, there is a need in the art for methods and systems which are cost effective and energy efficient, while still providing sufficient cooling to make the indoor space being cooled comfortable. Such methods and systems are disclosed herein.

SUMMARY

The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the embodiments disclosed and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the embodiments can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.

In an embodiment, systems and methods for cooling are disclosed.

In an embodiment, systems and methods for evaporative cooling are disclosed.

In an embodiment, systems, and methods for modifying standard evaporative cooling systems are disclosed.

In an embodiment, air conditioning systems are disclosed.

In an embodiment, methods and systems for cooling water associated with evaporative cooling systems are disclosed.

In an embodiment, methods, and systems for cooling air from evaporative cooling systems are disclosed.

For example, in certain embodiments, a system comprises a heat transfer box configured to cool water supplied to an evaporative cooling unit, an output line configured to transport water from the evaporative cooling unit to the heat transfer box, and a cool water supply line configured to transport water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit. In an embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises a housing, the housing comprising an outer housing, an inner housing, and insulation formed between the outer housing and the inner housing. In an embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises a filter attached to a hot input valve, the hot input valve further connected to the output line.

In an embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises an ice maker and a heat transfer tank, wherein ice from the ice maker is mixed with water transported into the heat transfer box via the output line. In an embodiment the heat transfer box comprises a pump operably connected to the heat transfer tank and configured to pump water from the heat transfer tank to the cool water supply line.

In an embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises an evaporative capillary coil and a cooling tube in thermal communication with the evaporative capillary coil. In an embodiment, the cooling tube is configured to accept water input from the output line, and circulate water to the cool water supply line. In an embodiment, the system comprises an expansion device operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil, a compressor operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil, and a condenser coil configured between the compressor and the expansion device.

In another embodiment, an air conditioning system comprises an evaporative cooling unit, a heat transfer box configured to cool water supplied to an evaporative cooling unit, an output line configured to transport water from the evaporative cooling unit to the heat transfer box, and a cool water supply line configured to transport water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit. In an embodiment the heat transfer box comprises a housing, the housing comprising an outer housing, an inner housing, and insulation formed between the outer housing and the inner housing, a filter attached to a hot input valve, the hot input valve further connected to the output line.

In an embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises an ice maker and a heat transfer tank, wherein ice from the ice maker is mixed with water transported into the heat transfer box via the output line.

In another embodiment, the heat transfer box comprises an evaporative capillary coil and a cooling tube in thermal communication with the evaporative capillary coil, wherein the cooling tube is configured to accept water input from the output line and circulate water to the cool water supply line. In an embodiment the system comprises an expansion device operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil, a compressor operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil, and a condenser coil configured between the compressor and the expansion device.

In an embodiment, the evaporative cooling unit comprises a water input operably connected to the cool water supply line and an outlet operably connected to the output line. In an embodiment, the evaporative cooling unit further comprises a water distribution assembly connected to the cool water supply line by the water input.

In another embodiment an air conditioning method comprises transporting water from an evaporative cooling unit to a heat transfer box with an output line, cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box, and transporting water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit with a cool water supply line. In an embodiment, the method comprises filtering water from the output line with a filter attached to a hot input valve. In an embodiment, cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box comprises collecting water from the output line in a heat transfer tank, making ice with an ice maker, and providing the ice to the heat transfer tank, wherein the ice from the ice maker is mixed with water in the heat transfer tank. In an embodiment, cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box further comprises providing water from the output line to a cooling tube and transferring heat in the water in the cooling tube to an evaporative capillary coil in thermal communication with the cooling tube. In an embodiment, the method comprises distributing water from the cool water supply line to a water distribution assembly in the evaporative cooling unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, further illustrate the embodiments and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an air conditioning system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 2A illustrates an evaporative cooler, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 2B illustrates another evaporative cooler, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 3A illustrates a heat transfer box, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 3B illustrates another heat transfer box, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 4A illustrates a front view of an alternative heat transfer box, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear view of an alternative heat transfer box, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates a cooling ring for cooling air exiting an evaporative cooler, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 6 illustrates a method for air conditioning, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an air conditioning system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of an air conditioning system and associated components, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 7C illustrates a front view of an air conditioning system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 7D illustrates a side view of an air conditioning system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates a method for air conditioning using the air conditioning system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 9A illustrates a front external view of a cooling system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 9B illustrates a rear external view of a cooling system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments; and

FIG. 9C illustrates an internal view of a cooling system, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The particular values and configurations discussed in the following non-limiting examples can be varied, and are cited merely to illustrate one or more embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope thereof.

Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments are shown. The embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the embodiments to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Throughout the specification and claims, terms may have nuanced meanings suggested or implied in context beyond an explicitly stated meaning. Likewise, the phrase “in one embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and the phrase “in another embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment. It is intended, for example, that claimed subject matter include combinations of example embodiments in whole or in part.

In general, terminology may be understood at least in part from usage in context. For example, terms such as “and,” “or,” or “and/or” as used herein may include a variety of meanings that may depend at least in part upon the context in which such terms are used. Typically, “or” is used to associate a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C, here used in the inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C, here used in the exclusive sense. In addition, the term “one or more” as used herein, depending at least in part upon context, may be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense or may be used to describe combinations of features, structures, or characteristics in a plural sense. In addition, the term “based on” may be understood as not necessarily intended to convey an exclusive set of factors and may, instead, allow for existence of additional factors not necessarily expressly described, again, depending at least in part on context.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Systems and methods for air conditioning are disclosed herein. Conceptually, evaporative coolers use evaporation as the fundamental mechanism for air cooling. This is achieved with a wet membrane as a medium between outside ambient air and air flowing though the membrane into the indoor environment being cooled. Air flowing through the wet membrane causes the water to evaporate making the air flowing through it cooler.

In certain embodiments disclosed herein, cold water can be circulated through the system, which slows down the air molecules, cooling down the air even further and creating cooler temperatures. In certain aspects, circulating the cold-water acts as a barrier. Ambient air molecules flowing through the membrane soaked with cold water release energy to the water cooling down the air. The heated water can then be circulated through a heat transfer box, that can be embodied in several ways, making the water cold again, for recirculation to the membrane. One aspect of the embodiments is that it can be assembled as a new air conditioning unit, or can be used to modify existing evaporative cooling systems.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of components of an air conditioning system 100, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. In general, the system comprises an evaporative cooling unit 105 and a heat transfer box 110. The evaporative cooling unit 105 is illustrated in further detail in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The heat transfer box 110 is illustrated in further detail in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The evaporative cooling unit 105 can be connected to the heat transfer box 110 with an output line 115. The heat transfer box 110 can cool the water provided via the output line 115. Likewise, the cool water supply line 120 supplies cooled water from the heat transfer box 110 to the evaporative cooling unit 105. In certain cases, the cool water supply line 120 can be insulated to ensure the cool water remains cool in transit. The system can further include a new water supply line 125, which can connect a domestic water source to the system 100. The new water supply line 125 provides water to the system 100 as the total water level drops as a consequence of evaporation.

FIG. 2A illustrates an evaporative cooling system 105 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. It should be appreciated that the evaporative cooling system 105 is exemplary and other evaporative cooling systems can similarly be used without departing from the scope disclosed herein. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2A represents an example of an evaporative cooling system that can be retrofitted to operate as a component in the air conditioning system 100.

The evaporative cooling system 105 can comprise a housing 205 configured to allow airflow along the top, bottom, or sides. This can include gratings or other such openings to allow airflow. Interior to these sides, evaporative cooling pads 210 can be installed. The evaporative cooling pads 210 can comprise any material which can absorb water, but is sufficiently porous to allow airflow, as is known in the art.

The housing 205 can further include a water input 215 configured to allow water to flow into the pan 220 of the housing 205. The water level in the pan 220 can be controlled with a valve 225. The valve 225 can comprise a float valve or any other such valve which closes when the desired water level of water 155 is reached. A pump 230 can be configured in the pan 220. The pump is configured to pump water through a water distribution assembly 235. The water distribution assembly 235 is used to distribute water from the pan 220 to the pads 210. The system can be gravity fed so the water distributed at the top of the pad is pulled by gravity into the pad 210.

The evaporative cooling system further comprises a fan 240 usually arranged proximate to a ducting inlet 250. The fan 240 can comprise a drum fan or other such fan. The fan 240 draws ambient exterior air through the soaked pads 210 as illustrated by arrows 245. As the exterior or ambient air passes through the pads 210, the water therein evaporates, which cools the air flowing therethrough. The fan 240 further blows the now cooled air into the ducting inlet 250 where it is distributed to the indoor environment (e.g., a house) where cooling is desired.

The water input 215 can be configured to accept input from the cool water supply line 120 connected to the heat transfer box 110. In this way, the system 100 can be retrofitted to operate with an existing evaporative cooling unit. In such an embodiment, an outlet 260 can be provided to connect to output line 115 to circulate warmer water to the heat transfer box. In such an embodiment, a collector tank 255 can be used to hold the cooled incoming water separate from the heated outgoing water. The collector tank 255 can comprise an insulated box in the pan 220 to reduce heat transfer to the interior of the evaporative cooling unit, and/or the adjacent heated outgoing water.

FIG. 2B illustrates another evaporative cooling system 105 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. In this embodiment, the cooling system shares some of the same components as that of FIG. 2A. However, in this example embodiment, the need for a pump, is eliminated, because an input valve 265 can be used to connect the cool water supply line 120 directly to the water distribution assembly 235. In this embodiment, a continuous flow of cool water can be supplied to the evaporative cooling system 105 via the cool water supply line. The pan 220 can be fitted with an outlet 260 to connect to output line 115 to circulate hot water to the heat transfer box.

FIG. 3A illustrates aspects of a heat transfer box 110, in accordance with an embodiment. The heat transfer box 110 can comprise a housing 305, which can further comprise an outer housing 320 and inner housing 310 with insulation 315 formed in between the inner housing 310 and outer housing 320. Hot input valve 325 can be formed in the housing 305, and serves to allow hot water from the evaporative cooling system 105 via output line 115 to be fed into the heat transfer box 110. A filter 330 can be connected to the interior or exterior side of the hot input valve to remove any particulate matter from the evaporative cooling system 105.

In this embodiment, the heat transfer box 110 includes an ice maker 335 configured on the interior of the heat transfer box 110. The ice maker 335 can be configured to freeze water 360 and produce ice cubes 365 according to methods well known in the art. The water supply can be water drawn from in the heat transfer tank 340, or can come from an external water source such as new water supply line 125. The ice maker 335 will require a power source 345 which can be mains AC power from the house or other structure, or can comprise a battery configured to provide DC power from, for example, a solar collector.

The heat transfer tank 340 can be configured inside the insulated heat transfer box 110. Ice from the ice maker 335 can be mixed with incoming hot water from the evaporative cooler system 105. The ice cools the water in the heat transfer tank. Pump 350 can then be used to pump the cooled water out cool water outlet 355 and back to the evaporative cooling system 105.

FIG. 3B illustrates aspects of a heat transfer box 110, in accordance with another embodiment. The heat transfer box 110 can comprise a housing 305, which can further comprise an outer housing 320 and inner housing 310 with insulation 315 formed in between the inner housing 310 and outer housing 320. Hot input valve 325 can be formed in the housing 305, and serves to allow hot water from the evaporative cooling system 105 via output line 115 to be fed into the heat transfer box 110. A filter 330 can be connected to the interior side of the hot input valve to remove any particulate matter from the evaporative cooling system 105.

In this embodiment, the heat transfer box 110 includes a refrigeration system configured to cool the incoming water from the evaporative cooling system 105 interior to the heat transfer box 110. The refrigeration system generally includes an evaporative capillary coil 370, which can be configured to be in thermal communication with the cooling tube 375 configured to serve as the medium through which heated water from the evaporative cooling system 105 is cooled. In certain embodiments, the evaporative capillary coil 370 comprises a copper coil winding tube interleaved with the cooling tube 375 which can also comprise a copper coil winding tube.

The refrigeration system further comprises an expansion device 380 (also known as a metering device) operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil 370. The expansion device 380 can comprise a capillary tube, a thermostatic expansion valve, an electronic expansion valve, or the like. In practice, liquid refrigerant in the refrigeration system is subject to a pressure drop at the expansion device, which results in an associated temperature drop. The cooled liquid refrigerant then flows through the evaporative capillary coil 370, which is in thermal communication with the cooling tube 375.

Higher temperature water in the cooling tube 375 transfers heat to the lower temperature refrigerant in the evaporative capillary coil 370. The heated refrigerant in the capillary coil then convects the newly added heat in the refrigerant to a compressor 385. The compressor 385 compresses the refrigerant. The compressor facilitates a state change from a liquid to a gas. The gaseous refrigerant is then sent to a condenser coil 390 where the heat in the refrigerant is transferred to the exterior environment. A fan 390 can be used to blow hot air to the exterior environment. The gaseous refrigerant is condensed back into a liquid at the condenser coil 390. The liquid refrigerant is then recycled to the expansion device 380 where the process is repeated.

Power can be supplied to the refrigeration system with a power source 345 which can be mains AC power from the house or other structure, or can comprise a battery configured to provide DC power from, for example, a solar collector.

This continuous loop refrigeration system is thus used to cool the water in the cooling tube 375. The cooled water from the cooling tube 375 is then pumped with pump 350 back to the evaporative cooling system 105 via cool water supply line 120 at a reduced temperature. In exemplary embodiments, the temperature of the water can be between 33 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit, although other temperatures are possible.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate another embodiment of a heat transfer box 110 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. It should be appreciated that aspects of the heat transfer box 110 provided in FIGS. 3A and 3B may be incorporated in whole or in part in other embodiments, without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

FIG. 4A illustrates a front view of a heat transfer box 110 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. The heat transfer box 110 can comprise a housing 305, which can further comprise an outer housing 320 and inner housing 310 with insulation 315 formed in between the inner housing 310 and outer housing 320. The insulation 315 can comprise polyurethane insulation of a necessary thickness. In some embodiments, 3 inches of insulation may suffice, but other thicknesses are possible. Hot input valve 325 can be formed in the housing 305, and serves to allow hot water from the evaporative cooling system 105 via output line 115 to be fed into the heat transfer box 110. A filter 330 can be connected to the hot input valve to remove any particulate matter from the evaporative cooling system 105.

The top portion 405 of the housing can be configured with an ice making system 410. The ice making system 410 includes ice maker 415 and ice maker 416, both of which are configured to output ice into tray 420 with slot 425 configured to allow the ice to drop into heat transfer tank 340. The top portion 405 of the housing 305 can have insulation 430 surrounding the ice maker 415 and tray 420 to improve the efficiency of the ice makers 415 and 416.

The top portion 405 can further be configured with thermoelectric coolers 435, 436, and 437. The thermoelectric coolers are configured to cool the top portion 405 of the housing 305. The thermoelectric coolers 435, 436, and 437 operate according to the Peltier effect. In practice a voltage can be applied across semiconductors of different types. A cooling effect is created by passing current through one plate to the other. The cold side absorbs heat from the environment in the top portion. The heat is transferred to the hot side.

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear view of the heat transfer box 110. As illustrated the hot side of the thermoelectric coolers 435, 436, and 437, can be positioned exterior to the housing 305. A heat sink 440 and heat pipe mounted to an aluminum water flow housing 445, with outlet hose 446 can be configured proximate to the hot side of the thermoelectric coolers 435, 436, and 437. An electric panel 450 can be provided on the housing 305 for access to internal components and power source 345.

The heat transfer tank 340 can be configured inside the insulated heat transfer box 305. Ice from the ice maker 335 can be mixed with incoming hot water from the evaporative cooler system 105. The ice cools the water in the heat transfer tank 340. Pump 350, surrounded by pump housing 351, can then be used to pump the cooled water out cool water outlet 355 and back to the evaporative cooling system 105.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a cooling system 500. The cooling system 500 is configured to take advantage of the convection of cold air through a ducting inlet 250. In the system 500, a cooling ring 505 can be configured on the ducting inlet 250 in order to further cool the air flow 510 through the ducting inlet 250 into the indoor environment. Aspects of the cooling ring 505 are shown in exploded view 550.

The cooling ring 510 can comprise an evaporative coil capillary 515 integrated in or otherwise configured in the ducting inlet 250. A fan and heat sink 520 can be used to distribute heat away from the evaporative coil capillary 515. It should be appreciated that the cooling system 500 can further comprise an expansion device 380, a compressor 385, and condenser 390 as detailed herein. The cooling ring 510 can be used in conjunction with other embodiments disclosed herein to further cool air entering the indoor environment.

FIG. 6 illustrates an air conditioning method 600 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. The method begins at block 602.

At block 604 water from an evaporative cooler can be supplied to a heat transfer box. The water can be filtered in order to prevent the introduction of particulate matter into the heat transfer box.

Water in the heat transfer box can be cooled at step 606. In some embodiments, the water can be cooled by adding ice to the water in the heat transfer box. The method can include generating ice for distribution into the water.

In another embodiment, the water can be cooled by transporting the water through a cooling tube which is in thermal communication with an evaporative coil capillary. In the embodiment, the evaporative coil capillary is supplied refrigerant via an expansion device. The heat in the cooling tube is transferred to the refrigerant in the evaporative coil capillary. The heated refrigerant is then compressed by a compressor into a gas. The gas is then provided to a condenser where the refrigerant is condensed back into a liquid and the associated heat is released into the ambient environment. The liquified coolant is then circulated back to the expansion device (or metering device), for recirculation through the cooling circuit.

Once the water is cooled, at block 608, the cooled water can be pumped back to the evaporative cooler. The cooled water is distributed by a water distribution system to evaporative cooling pads as shown at block 610. The evaporative cooler can draw air through the cooling pads, cooling the air in the process as shown at block 612. The excess water drains from the evaporative cooling pads, at which point it can be recirculated to the heat transfer box at block 614. The method ends at step 616.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrates an air conditioning system 700, in accordance with another embodiment. FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of the system 700. The system can comprise a housing 705. The housing 705 can be insulated and can be configured to house an evaporative coil 710 and liquid coil 715 positioned in an insulated section 720 of the housing 705 with an insulated housing lid 725. An ice and water housing 730 can be configured such that it is surrounded by the evaporative coil 710 and liquid coil 715. The evaporative coil 710 along with the cooled liquid coil 715 can wrap around the ice water housing 730, which can comprise an aluminum incasement. This incasement holds the ice and water and can have a lid to facilitate convenient addition of water or ice. The housing can include latches 780 and hinges 785 to allow the lid to open and close. This aluminum incasement helps to keep things cold. The evaporative coil 710 is in thermal contact with the liquid coil, as is the ice water housing 730. These elements in combination comprise a heat transfer system and work in conjunction to keep the cold liquid coil 715 cold.

The interior of the housing 705 can also include a fan 735, which can comprise a centrifugal fan, drum fan or other such fan used to drive cold air into the desired environment, through air ducting. A drive shaft 740 is operably connected to the fan 735 and configured to operate via a motor and belt assembly, mounted with a motor mount 750. The drive shaft can further connect to vent fan 745. An RC panel housing 755 can be provided in the housing 705 to hold various components.

FIG. 7B provides a side view illustrating additional aspects of the air conditioning system 700. The housing 700 can also house an electric motor 760 used to drive the drive shaft 740. The electric motor 760 can connect to an external power source such as AC mains power or a DC power supply (e.g., a battery).

The evaporative coil 710 is a component of a refrigerant system comprising an energy efficient compressor 765 as well as a condenser, and metering device. The electric motor can be used to drive aspects of the refrigerant system. Refrigerant is circulated through the system as previously detailed with respect to other embodiments. The evaporative coil 710 is in thermal contact with the cold liquid coil 715, such that heat absorbed in the cold liquid coil is transferred to the evaporative coil.

The cold liquid coil 715 is attached to a water pump 770 that circulates the cold liquid through a medium 775 (e.g., a radiator) as illustrated in FIG. 7C. The radiator 775 serves as the medium for heat to be transferred from the air to the cold liquid. The cold liquid circulates back through the insulated housing 705 where the cooling components, including the evaporative coil 710 and aluminum encasement 730 extract the heat from the cool liquid.

As illustrated in the rear view of FIG. 7D, the heat in the evaporative coil 710 is transferred to the condenser coil 790 which is air cooled by a fan 745 that is attached to the same motor as the centrifugal fan 735 making it more efficient.

Ambient external air drawn into the system 700 is thus cool via the cooled liquid in the radiator. The cold air is then blown into the desired environment (e.g., the internal volume of a building) to condition the indoor temperature.

FIG. 8 illustrates steps associated with a cooling method 800 according to the system illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D and/or FIGS. 9A-9C. The method starts at 802.

At step 804, cooling liquid is provided to a heat transfer system. The heat transfer system comprises an ice and water container with cooled fluid windings and evaporative coil windings in contact therewith. The cooling liquid flowing through the cooled fluid windings is cooled in the heat transfer system as illustrated at 806.

At step 808, the cooled liquid is pumped to a heat transfer medium such as a radiator. The cooled liquid is distributed through the medium as illustrated at 810. As air passes through the medium, the cooled liquid cools the air as shown at 812. The cooled air can be directed into the environment where cooling is desired. Most commonly this can include blowing the cold air with a fan, into ducting to direct the air to an indoor environment.

The cooled liquid, which has now been heated by the passing air, can be pumped back to the heat transfer system at step 816, where the liquid can be cooled again, and recirculated to the medium for further cooling. The method ends at 818.

FIG. 9A-9C illustrate aspects of another embodiment of a cooling system 900 configured in a single enclosure 902. FIG. 9A illustrates a front view of the cooling system 900, which includes enclosure 902 and front grate 904. The enclosure includes ice loading slot 906 and water loading slot 908. The enclosure 902 can be insulated and can be configured to house a radiator 912 and condenser coil 918. FIG. 9B illustrates a rearview of the cooling system 900 including rear vent grate 910.

FIG. 9C illustrates the components of the cooling system 900, internal to the enclosure 902 (not shown in FIG. 9C). The system 900 includes a radiator 912 behind the front grate 904. The rear vent grate 910 can similarly include the condenser coil 918.

External air can be drawn through the system 900 by centrifugal fan 914 and bladed fan 920. A shaft mount 930 can be connected to a pulley 922 configured to drive a drive shaft 924. The drive shaft 924 can be connected to both the bladed fan 920 and centrifugal fan 914. The pulley is connected to an electric motor 916, which is used to drive the drive shaft 924. The electric motor 916 can connect to an electrical controller 932, which can include an input for external power.

An ice and water housing 926 can be configured such that it is thermal contact with the radiator 912 and condenser coil 918. The ice and water housing 926 helps to keep things cold. The radiator 912 is in thermal contact with the condenser coil 918. The ice water housing can also be in thermal contact with the radiator 912 and condenser coil 918. These elements in combination comprise a heat transfer system and work in conjunction to keep the internal volume of the enclosure 902 cold.

The condenser coil 918 is a component of a refrigerant system comprising an energy efficient compressor 934 as well as a condenser, and metering device. The electric motor can be used to drive aspects of the refrigerant system. Refrigerant is circulated through the system 900 as previously detailed with respect to other embodiments. The radiator 912 is in thermal contact with the condenser coil 918, such that heat absorbed in the condenser coil 918 is transferred to the radiator 912.

The radiator 912 can be connected to a water pump 928 that circulates the cold liquid through the radiator 912. The radiator 912 serves as the medium for heat to be transferred from the air to the cold liquid. The cold liquid can circulate back through the system where the cooling components, including the condenser coil 918 extract the heat from the cool liquid. In this way, the heat in the radiator 912 is transferred to the condenser coil 918 which is air cooled by the fan 920 that is attached to the same motor 916 as the centrifugal fan 914.

Ambient external air drawn into the system 900 is thus cool via the cooled liquid in the radiator 912. The cold air is then blown into the desired environment (e.g., the internal volume of a building) to condition the indoor temperature.

In accordance with aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, a system is configured in which a freezing or cooling system or method is used to lower the temperature within an insulated heat transfer box. Using the lower temperatures, the water can be cooled to a low of 35F using ice or copper windings. That water is then circulated with a water pump up to the evaporative cooler. Cool water then becomes the medium of heat exchange where ambient air releases its energy to the water heating it up, cooling the air passing through it. This water is then passed through a filter where it will continue on back to the heat transfer box to be cooled again repeating the process. This system can be located on the evaporative cooler, or it can be located at the bottom of the home.

In certain embodiments the system embodies a freezing mechanism, refrigerant cooling, and thermoelectric effect. The system includes a fan or turbine along with a Heat sink or condenser unit that can be water, air, or evaporative cooled. The system can further comprise an evaporative coil with some type of metering device. The system can comprise a closed system with a water pump. A small filtration system that catches debris from entering and clogging the copper windings can be provided. An insulated housing can be used to improve energy conservation and cooling efficiency. The system can include a thermostat system that allows for optimal water temperature tuning. Insulated PEX line can be used for water transfer. Together these systems work together to cool down the water being circulated as the heat transfer medium allowing lower temperatures as compared to a standard evaporative cooler.

Based on the foregoing, it can be appreciated that a number of embodiments, preferred and alternative, are disclosed herein.

It will be appreciated that variations of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also, it will be appreciated that various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. A system comprising:

a heat transfer box configured to cool water supplied to an evaporative cooling unit;

an output line configured to transport water from the evaporative cooling unit to the heat transfer box; and

a cool water supply line configured to transport water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

a housing, the housing comprising an outer housing, an inner housing, and insulation formed between the outer housing and the inner housing.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

a filter attached to a hot input valve, hot input valve further connected to the output line.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

an ice maker; and

a heat transfer tank, wherein ice from the ice maker is mixed with water transported into the heat transfer box via the output line.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

a pump operably connected to the heat transfer tank and configured to pump water from the heat transfer tank to the cool water supply line.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

an evaporative capillary coil; and

a cooling tube in thermal communication with the evaporative capillary coil.

7. The system of claim 6 wherein the cooling tube is configured to accept water input from the output line, and circulate water to the cool water supply line.

8. The system of claim 6 further comprising:

an expansion device operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil;

a compressor operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil; and

a condenser coil configured between the compressor and the expansion device.

9. An air conditioning system comprising:

an evaporative cooling unit;

a heat transfer box configured to cool water supplied to an evaporative cooling unit;

an output line configured to transport water from the evaporative cooling unit to the heat transfer box; and

a cool water supply line configured to transport water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit.

10. The air conditioning system of claim 9 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

a housing, the housing comprising an outer housing, an inner housing, and insulation formed between the outer housing and the inner housing;

a filter attached to a hot input valve, the hot input valve further connected to the output line.

11. The air conditioning system of claim 9 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

an ice maker; and

a heat transfer tank, wherein ice from the ice maker is mixed with water transported into the heat transfer box via the output line.

12. The air conditioning system of claim 9 wherein the heat transfer box comprises:

an evaporative capillary coil; and

a cooling tube in thermal communication with the evaporative capillary coil, wherein the cooling tube is configured to accept water input from the output line and circulate water to the cool water supply line.

13. The air conditioning system of claim 12 further comprising:

an expansion device operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil;

a compressor operably connected to the evaporative capillary coil; and

a condenser coil configured between the compressor and the expansion device.

14. The air conditioning system of claim 9 wherein the evaporative cooling unit comprises:

a water input operably connected to the cool water supply line; and

an outlet operably connected to the output line.

15. The air conditioning system of claim 14 wherein the evaporative cooling unit further comprises:

a water distribution assembly connected to the cool water supply line by the water input.

16. An air conditioning method comprising:

transporting water from an evaporative cooling unit to a heat transfer box with an output line;

cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box; and

transporting water from the heat transfer box to the evaporative cooling unit with a cool water supply line.

17. The air conditioning method of claim 16 further comprising:

filtering water from the output line with a filter attached to a hot input valve.

18. The air conditioning method of claim 16 wherein cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box comprises:

collecting water from the output line in a heat transfer tank;

making ice with an ice maker; and

providing the ice to the heat transfer tank, wherein the ice from the ice maker is mixed with water in the heat transfer tank.

19. The air conditioning method of claim 16 wherein cooling water from the evaporative cooling unit with the heat transfer box further comprises:

providing water from the output line to a cooling tube; and

transferring heat in the water in the cooling tube to an evaporative capillary coil in thermal communication with the cooling tube.

20. The air conditioning method of claim 16 further comprising:

distributing water from the cool water supply line to a water distribution assembly in the evaporative cooling unit.