SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEHUMIDIFICATION, AIR CONDITIONING, AND CONTROLLED PROVISION OF CO2

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to a system to dehumidify, alternately heat or cool a first space, and/or provide a controlled amount of CO.sub.2 to the first space. The system includes an indoor unit with a gas furnace with a first coil, and a second indoor coil. The first indoor coil and the second indoor coil are in fluid communication. A damper is in fluid communication with the exhaust for the gas furnace, for directing an amount of CO.sub.2 from the gas furnace to the first space. A control module is in electrical communication with the first indoor unit and the receptacle to control a position of the damper between an open position and a closed position, wherein the open position of the damper allows the amount of CO.sub.2 to be provided to the first space.

Claims

1. A system to dehumidify, alternately heat or cool a first space, and/or provide a controlled amount of CO.sub.2 to the first space, the system comprising: an outdoor unit comprising an outdoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger comprising an outdoor coil and a fan; a first indoor unit comprising a gas furnace with a first indoor coil and a return air orifice, and a second indoor coil, the second indoor coil in serial air flow communication between the outdoor unit and a return air orifice of the gas furnace; a damper in serial air flow communication with an exhaust of the gas furnace; a control module in electrical communication with the first indoor unit and the damper, the control module controlling a position of the damper between an open position and a closed position, wherein the open position of the damper allows the controlled amount of CO.sub.2 to be provided to the first space.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising a thermostat, a humidistat, and a CO.sub.2 controller each in electrical communication with the control module.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the thermostat, the humidistat, and the CO.sub.2 controller are each in electrical communication with the control module via low voltage wiring.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface in electrical communication with the control module, the user interface allowing a user to select a desired amount of CO.sub.2 for the first space.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the control module controls the position of the damper in response to the user selected desired amount of CO.sub.2 for the first space.

6. A method to dehumidify, alternately heat or cool a first space, and provide a controlled amount of CO.sub.2 to the first space, the method comprising: achieving a temperature for the first space; achieving a humidity level for the first space without changing the temperature for the first space; and achieving a CO.sub.2 level for the first space without changing the temperature or the humidity level for the first space.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein achieving the CO.sub.2 level for the first space comprises: storing exhaust from an indoor unit in a receptacle; and delivering the exhaust from the receptacle.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein delivering the exhaust from the receptacle comprises transitioning a damper of the receptacle from a closed position to an open position.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein a control module transitions the damper of the receptacle from the closed position to the open position in response to a CO.sub.2 determination.

10. The method of claim 6 further comprising: monitoring the humidity level for the first space; monitoring the temperature for the first space; and monitoring the CO.sub.2 level for the first space.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein each of the humidity level, temperature, and CO.sub.2 level are monitored by a control module.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the temperature ranges from approximately 65? F. to 85? F., such as 68? F., 70? F., 75? F., 79? F., 80? F., 83? F., or a temperature falling within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the humidity level ranges from approximately 60% to 85%, such as 63%, 65%, 68%, 70%, 75%, 77%, 80%, 83%, or a humidity level within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the CO.sub.2 level ranges from approximately 400 ppm to 1800 ppm, such as 600 ppm, 700 ppm, 800 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1200 ppm, 1600 ppm, or a level within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

15. A control module to control functions to dehumidify, alternately heat or cool a first space, and/or provide a controlled amount of CO.sub.2 to the first space, the control module comprising: a first microprocessor in electronic communication with a thermostat, a humidistat, and/or a CO.sub.2 controller; low voltage wiring connecting the control module to a first indoor unit and an outdoor unit; and a second microprocessor in electrical communication with the first indoor unit, the outdoor unit, and/or the first microprocessor, the second microprocessor configured to alter an operational mode of the first indoor unit and/or the outdoor unit in response to at least one signal received from the first microprocessor.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In the drawings:

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic overview of a system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates another block diagram of the system of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart for CO.sub.2 delivery by the system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a decision tree or hierarchy for prioritizing tasks by a control module according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic wiring diagram of a control module according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic block diagram of the control module of FIG. 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 8-11 illustrate flowcharts of example methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In the rapidly growing and global cultivation and agriculture industry, it is known that in controlled (i.e., indoor) environments, an ideal air for growth requires accurate temperature, humidity, and carbon-dioxide (CO.sub.2) levels. Controlled environments are typically very specifically controlled and are not necessarily mimicking the conditions of outdoor (i.e., uncontrolled) environments. Specific conditions can promote particular attributes of a plant, such as its color, flowering season, and/or gender. Control over these, and other, attributes can improve plant yield, consumer satisfaction, and can lead to hybrid or new species of plants not otherwise contemplated.

[0018] Most industrial sized cultivations have options for controlling the temperature of their controlled environments. However, most industrial sized cultivations are forced to supply the required CO.sub.2 by installing huge tanks to store liquid CO.sub.2 in open areas. This stored CO.sub.2 is then injected through pipes to grow rooms or controlled environments to feed the plants. Smaller sized operations resort to gas burners which interfere with the overall health of the grow rooms. Specifically, gas burners use the available oxygen to burn the gas and they undesirably contribute to the overall temperature of the rooms. Further, almost all cultivators provide a separate dehumidifier to combat extra moisture.

[0019] Embodiments of the present disclosure address and solve these and other issues. Disclosed are systems and devices having air conditioning capabilities to heat, cool, and/or dehumidify the air inside (or being delivered to) an enclosed space. The disclosed systems and devices also have capabilities to provide a controlled amount of CO.sub.2 gas to the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the disclosed systems are dynamic and responsive to, at least, (i) user provided settings and/or controls, and (ii) measurements of the enclosed space, where the measurements include one or more of a temperature, a humidity, and a CO.sub.2 level for the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the enclosed space includes one space. In some embodiments, the enclosed space includes a plurality of spaces, such as a first space, a second space, a third space, etc. The plurality of spaces may be connected (i.e., in fluid communication) as part of a larger facility.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic overview of a system 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system 100 of FIG. 1.

[0021] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, the system 100 includes an outdoor unit 10, an indoor unit 20, a control module 30, and a plurality of monitors 40. The outdoor unit 10 can include a compressor 12, at least one coil 14, a condensing fan 16, and a motor 18 for the condensing fan 16. In some embodiments, the at least one coil 14 is an evaporator coil. In some embodiments, the at least one coil 14 includes two coilsan evaporator coil and a condensing coil.

[0022] The indoor unit 20 can include a gas furnace 22, having a first coil 24 and a fan 26, and a second coil 28. In some embodiments, the second coil 28 is in an evaporator coil cabinet 21. In some embodiments, the gas furnace 22 further includes a return air orifice 23, to pull outside air into the gas furnace 22 to interact with and be conditioned by the first heat exchanger 22. The gas furnace 22 can also include a supply air orifice 25 to deliver conditioned air to an enclosed space 50.

[0023] The evaporator coil cabinet (i.e., the second coil 28) 21 is installed in serial air flow between the outdoor unit 10 and the gas furnace 22. The evaporator coil cabinet 21 is installed in serial air flow between the outdoor condensing unit 10 and the return air orifice 23 of the gas furnace 22. In this arrangement, air coming through the return air orifice 23 will pass first through the evaporator coil cabinet 21, the second coil 28, and then through the gas furnace 22. The evaporator coil cabinet 21 can be connected to the outdoor unit 10 via standard suction and liquid lines. The gas furnace 22 can also be connected to the outdoor condensing unit 10 via standard suction and liquid lines.

[0024] In some configurations, the system 100 also includes a receptacle or supply box 27 installed in serial air flow with the gas furnace 22. In some embodiments, the receptacle 27 is a ceiling box installed and disposed within traditional ductwork for transporting air through a building (either residential or commercial). In some embodiments, the receptacle 27 is installed or disposed within the path of a building's ductwork. The receptacle 27 is configured to receive an amount of CO.sub.2 gas or exhaust produced by the gas furnace 22. The receptacle 27 includes a damper 29, which can be an electric damper. The damper 29 is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the damper 29 allows CO.sub.2 or other gaseous fluids to flow out of the receptacle 27 and through the ductwork to an enclosed space 50. The damper 29 may also be partially opened between the open position and the closed position.

[0025] In other configurations, the system does not include a receptacle 27, but rather only includes a damper 29 installed in serial air flow with the CO.sub.2 exhaust of the gas furnace 22. The system may be configured to either have the damper open to deliver CO.sub.2 to the first space, or have the damper closed and exhaust CO.sub.2 out of the first space.

[0026] The control module 30 is in electric communication with the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, the plurality of monitors 40, and the damper 29. In some embodiments, the control module 30 is configured to control a position of the damper 29, between the open and closed positions. The control module 30 controls the position of the damper 29 in response to measurements taken by at least one of the plurality of monitors 40.

[0027] Specifically, the plurality of monitors 40 can include a thermostat 42, a humidistat 44, and/or a CO.sub.2 controller 46, among others. The control module 30 is configured to receive signals from each of the plurality of monitors 40 and, in response, send signals to the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, and/or the damper 29. The signals received by the control module 30 contain information relating to measured temperature, humidity, and CO.sub.2 gas levels for the enclosed space 50. The control module 30 is also configured to start, stop, and/or change an operational mode of the system 100 in response to the received signals.

[0028] In some embodiments, the indoor unit 20 includes a gas furnace 22 for heating in a standard heating mode. Hot air generated by the gas furnace can be circulated throughout an enclosed space 50, thereby heating the enclosed space 50. The system 100 also includes a thermostat 42. When the temperature of the enclosed space 50 satisfies a threshold value (measured by the thermostat 42), the gas will turn off and the furnace will stop burning gas. In some embodiments, the threshold value is a temperature of approximately 65? F. to 85? F., such as 68? F., 70? F., 75? F., 79? F., 80? F., 83? F., or a temperature falling within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

[0029] Another mode of the system may be a dehumidification mode. In the dehumidification mode for the system 100, the outdoor unit 10 and the gas furnace of the indoor unit 20 are both activated. The evaporator coil cabinet 21 and the second coil 28 are also activated. Air will pass through the return air orifice 23 of the first indoor unit 20 and will cool within the first indoor unit 20 and/or the evaporator coil cabinet 21. As the air is cooled, humidity (i.e., water) in the air will condense and drain out when passing over the second coil 28 and through the evaporator coil cabinet 21. In some embodiments, the drain is integrated into the evaporator coil cabinet 21. In some embodiments, the drain is integrated into the indoor unit 20.

[0030] The dehumidified and cooled air will pass through the gas furnace 22 and be warmed to a desired or threshold temperature. In some embodiments, the desired or threshold temperature corresponds to a user-set temperature. In some embodiments, the user-set temperature is approximately 65? F. to 85? F., such as 68? F., 70? F., 75? F., 79? F., 80? F., 83? F., or a temperature falling within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values. The neutral, dehumidified, and warmed air will then be passed to the enclosed space 50 via the supply air orifice 25.

[0031] Another mode of the system may be CO.sub.2 delivery. In some embodiments, in CO.sub.2 delivery mode, no heat nor cooled air is provided. When the damper 29 is in an open position, instead of CO.sub.2 being exhausted outside of system 100, the CO.sub.2 is directed to the enclosed space 50 (FIG. 3). CO.sub.2 can continue to be delivered until CO.sub.2 levels within the enclosed space reach the user-set level. Typically, the CO.sub.2 delivery mode is short and there is little temperature fluctuation during the CO.sub.2 delivery mode. FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart for CO.sub.2 delivery by the system 100 and FIG. 5 illustrates a decision tree or hierarchy for prioritizing tasks by the control module 30 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Typical methods for delivering CO.sub.2 gas to an enclosed space 50 usually involve injecting the space with CO.sub.2 from tanks. Typically, the CO.sub.2 is stored as a liquid under high pressures and injected as a gas using specialized regulators. Storing and acquiring CO.sub.2 gas tanks can be expensive, time consuming, and dangerous. CO.sub.2 liquid is stored in the tanks under extremely high pressures, meaning having excess CO.sub.2 tanks on hand can increase the risk of the tanks being damaged, leading to malfunctions of the tanks. Malfunctions of the tanks can lead to the tanks exploding, creating a dangerous environment for users both in the lack of oxygen and the risk of getting hit with debris. Further, most CO.sub.2 tanks require complex and expensive regulators to supply gas from the tanks to a desired space (such as an enclosed space 50, a keg, an incubator, etc.). These regulators tend to require frequent repair or attention and can be difficult to obtain and purchase for laymen users.

[0033] The disclosed systems and devices are configured for and capable of delivering a controlled or desired amount of CO.sub.2 gas to an enclosed space 50. The disclosed systems can accomplish the delivery of CO.sub.2 gas without the need for expensive and dangerous CO.sub.2 gas tanks. Specifically, the disclosed systems are capable of monitoring the CO.sub.2 level of the enclosed space 50 and activating the system 100 when the CO.sub.2 level does not satisfy a threshold value (e.g., the desired level of CO.sub.2 gas). In some embodiments, the threshold values for the desired level of CO.sub.2 gas are set at the control module by the user and can be set at any level desired by the user. For example, a user can set the threshold value for the desired level of CO.sub.2 gas ranges from 400 ppm to 1800 ppm, such as 600 ppm, 700 ppm, 800 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1200 ppm, 1600 ppm, or a level within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

[0034] In some embodiments, the system may activate the CO.sub.2 delivery mode if the level of CO.sub.2 gas deviates from the threshold value by approximately 3-10%. Typically, when the system 100 is running the CO.sub.2 delivery mode, the system is not simultaneously running any other mode (e.g., no heating, cooling, or dehumidification modes are running). If the system 100 is not running or executing the CO.sub.2 delivery mode, the system 100 is capable of running the cooling, heating, and/or dehumidification modes.

[0035] During the heating mode, the gas furnace burns natural gas and produces carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2). This CO.sub.2 can be exhausted out while the gas furnace is in the heating mode. The exhausted CO.sub.2 can be exhausted to the open air, or in other embodiments, the exhausted CO.sub.2 can be shuttled to and stored in any suitable receptacle, such as receptacle 27. For example, the exhausted CO.sub.2 can be directed to exhaust into the open air via duct work, which may be part of the duct work for the enclosed space 50 or may be additional and/or separate duct work. Or the exhausted CO.sub.2 can be shuttled to and stored in any suitable receptacle, such as receptacle 27. For example, the exhausted CO.sub.2 can be directed to a receptacle 27 via duct work, which may be part of the duct work for the enclosed space 50 or may be additional and/or separate duct work.

[0036] A damper 29 controls flow of the CO.sub.2 from the gas furnace 22. For example, the receptacle 27 can includes a damper 29 or valve. In some embodiments, the damper 29 is an electric damper in electric communication with the control module 30. The damper 29 is configured to transition between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the damper 29 keeps the receptacle 27 closed so CO.sub.2 cannot escape or be delivered to the enclosed space 50.

[0037] In the open position, the damper 29 allows CO.sub.2 generated by the gas furnace 22 to be delivered to the enclosed space 50. In some embodiments, the damper 29 remains open until a user, via the control module, sends a signal to close the damper 29. In other embodiments, the system includes pre-programmed time periods to leave the damper 29 open. For example, the open position can include the damper 29 being open for approximately one (1) minute to one (1) hour, such as being open for 10, 15, 20, 30, 45 minutes, or being open for a time period within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

[0038] During operation of the CO.sub.2 delivery mode, the outdoor unit 10 and/or the evaporator coil cabinet 21 may not be engaged or activated. Rather, the gas furnace is activated to heat the air and produce CO.sub.2 gas exhaust. The produced CO.sub.2 gas exhaust is shuttled to the receptacle 27 to facilitate delivery of the CO.sub.2 gas to the enclosed space 50.

[0039] According to another aspect, the present embodiments also include one or more control modules 30. Control modules 30 may be used in a system 100 for dehumidification, air conditioning, and controlled provision of CO.sub.2 gas to an enclosed space 50. FIG. 10 illustrates a wiring diagram 35 for a control module 30 and FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram 37 of a control module 30 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Disclosed control modules 30 can be configured to analyze and command, energize, or activate various components of the system 100 depending on the user (i.e., control) settings, indicated and measured by one of the plurality of monitors 40 (e.g., a CO.sub.2 controller 46, a thermostat 42, and/or a humidistat 44).

[0040] The disclosed control modules 30 can be connected to (i.e., in electrical communication with) the outdoor and indoor units 10, 20 via low-voltage wiring. The control modules 30 can also be connected to (i.e., in electrical communication with) the plurality of monitors 40, such as the thermostat 42, humidistat 44, and/or CO.sub.2 controller 46, via low-voltage wiring. In some embodiments, the control modules 30 can communicate with the plurality of monitors 40, the outdoor unit 10, and the indoor unit 20 via Wifi, Bluetooth, network signaling, ethernet connection, other appropriate communication protocols, etc.

[0041] As illustrated, the control module 30 can include at least one microprocessor unit 32, at least one storage device 36, at least one transceiver 38, and a plurality of terminal connections 39. The plurality of terminal connections 39 provide the sites for low-voltage wiring to connect the control module 30 to various components of the system 100 (e.g., the outdoor/indoor units 10, 20 and the plurality of monitors 40). In some embodiments, the control module 30 includes communication protocols to allow the control module 30 to communicate, engage, and interface with various components of the system 100.

[0042] The at least one microprocessor unit 32 can include a plurality of microprocessor units 1, 2, 3, etc. The control module 30 can include as many microprocessor units 32 as appropriate to adequately and automatically carry out the described function and operational modes for the system 100. In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit(s) 32 is configured to receive a signal from one of the plurality of monitors 40. The microprocessor unit(s) 32 is also configured to send a signal to at least one component of the system 100 (e.g., the outdoor unit 10, indoor unit 20, damper 29, etc.) in response to the received signal. In other embodiments, microprocessor unit(s) 32 are not provided.

[0043] In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit(s) 32 receives and processes the signal from one of the plurality of monitors 40. In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit(s) 32 send a signal to one or more transceivers 38 and the one or more transceivers 38 send and/or relay the signal to one or more components of the system 100.

[0044] In some embodiments, the control module 30 (i.e., the microprocessor unit(s) 32 of the control module 30) sends one or more signals containing information relating to (i) an operational mode of/for the system 100, (ii) a measurement of the enclosed space 50, and/or (iii) a change in the operational mode for the system 100. In some embodiments, the microprocessor unit(s) 32 send a signal to one or more transceivers 38 and the one or more transceivers 38 send and/or relay the signal to one or more components of the system 100.

[0045] Also disclosed are methods for dehumidification, air conditioning, and controlled provision of CO.sub.2 gas to an enclosed space. FIGS. 8-11 illustrate flowcharts of example methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 600 for cooling an enclosed space according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the method 600 includes flowing warm liquid refrigerant from a compressor to an expansion valve, at 610. For example, warm, compressed liquid refrigerant flows from the compressor of the outdoor unit to the expansion valve of the indoor unit. In some embodiments, the expansion valve is part of an evaporator coil cabinet. The evaporator coil cabinet may be installed within the first indoor unit, such as in series between the outdoor unit and the gas furnace. For example, the evaporator coil cabinet may be installed after the outdoor unit and before the blower and heat exchanger (i.e., coil) of the gas furnace.

[0047] The method 600 also includes expanding the liquid refrigerant via the expansion valve to generate cold gaseous refrigerant, at 615. At 620 of the method 600, the cold gaseous refrigerant cools a coil of the indoor unit. In some embodiments, the cold gaseous refrigerant cools the evaporator coil of the evaporator coil cabinet. The cold gaseous refrigerant will warm as it cools the coil (i.e., as the refrigerant absorbs thermal energy from the coil, the refrigerant warms). The method 600 further includes passing air over the cooled coil, thereby cooling the air, at 625. Specifically, as the air passes over the cooled coil, thermal energy is transferred from the air to the coil. As the thermal energy transfers to the coil, the coil begins to warm. This cooled air can then be directed to an enclosed space, thereby cooling the enclosed space.

[0048] The method 600 includes flowing warm gaseous refrigerant (back) to the compressor, at 630. For example, the warmed gaseous refrigerant may be directed to the compressor of the outdoor unit 10. At 635, the method additionally includes condensing the warm gaseous refrigerant to a hot liquid and heating the coil of the outdoor unit. Thermal energy is transferred from the hot liquid refrigerant to the coil of the outdoor unit, thereby heating the coil and cooling the liquid refrigerant, slightly. The method 600 also includes expelling the heat from the outdoor coil to an outdoor environment, at 640.

[0049] Specifically, in expelling the heat to the outdoor environment, air is passed over the heated coil, thereby heating the air. Similar to cooling the air at 625, as the air passes over the heated coil, thermal energy is transferred from the coil to the air. This will cause the air to warm, and the coil will begin to cool. The hot air can then be expelled to the outdoor environment via, for example, a blower or fan. By expelling hot air to the outdoor environment, the outdoor coil can cool down and be in a state to again absorb thermal energy from circulating hot liquid refrigerant.

[0050] The refrigerant utilized in the cooling mode will continue to circulate in this way (e.g., condensation to a warm liquid and expansion to a cold gas) until a desired or set temperature has been achieved within the enclosed space. Upon reaching the desired temperature, the cooling mode will automatically shut off until again activated by the control module.

[0051] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 700 for heating an enclosed space according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the method 700 includes igniting a gas furnace to burn natural gas, at 710. For example, when the temperature of an enclosed space falls below a desired or set value, the control module (see FIGS. 6-7) will automatically turn on the heating mode and ignite the gas furnace. The method 700 also includes heating an indoor coil unit via the burning of the natural gas, at 715. The indoor coil unit can be the gas furnace's heat exchanger. The method 700 further includes, at 720, passing air over the heated indoor coil, thereby heating the air. The air may be directed to the heated indoor coil (e.g., into the gas furnace) via a return air or air intake orifice. The return air orifice can be defined by the gas furnace. In a 90+ gas furnace, the return air orifice directs air from outside to the gas furnace. As the air passes over the heated coil, the air absorbs thermal energy from the heated coil. This causes the air to be heated and the indoor coil to cool. Standard furnaces may be used in this design, but installation may change based on the type of furnace used (for example, a 90+ gas furnace may be installed inside the enclosed space, whereas a standard furnace may be installed outside the enclosed space).

[0052] The method 700 includes delivering or directing the heated air to the enclosed space, at 725. In some embodiments, the heated air is directed to the enclosed space via ductwork. Directing the heated air to the enclosed space heats the enclosed space. As the heated air heats the enclosed space, the air begins to cool. The method 700 further includes circulating cooled air back into the indoor unit to again be heated, at 730. The cooled air is circulated or directed back to the indoor unit (e.g., a gas furnace) via a supply air orifice. The supply air orifice can be defined by the gas furnace and may be incorporated into the ductwork.

[0053] The heated air in the heating mode will continue to circulate in this way until a desired or set temperature has been achieved within the enclosed space. Upon reaching the desired temperature, the heating mode will automatically shut off until again activated by the control module.

[0054] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 800 for delivering CO.sub.2 gas to an enclosed space according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the method 800 includes igniting a gas furnace to burn natural gas and produce CO.sub.2 exhaust, at 810. When the damper 29 is closed, the method 800 also includes directing or shuttling the CO.sub.2 to exhaust, at 815.

[0055] The method 800 additionally includes opening a damper and releasing a flow of CO.sub.2 gas into the enclosed space, at 820. In some embodiments, the damper 29 is an electronic damper. In some embodiments, the receptacle includes the damper 29. In some embodiments, the control module controls a position of the damper 29. The control module can be configured to cause the damper 29 to open, thereby releasing the flow of CO.sub.2 gas.

[0056] At 825, the method 800 includes flowing the CO.sub.2 gas into the enclosed space until the control module causes the damper to close, at 825. In some embodiments, the control module receives a signal from the CO.sub.2 controller indicating the CO.sub.2 level in the enclosed space has reached a threshold value. In some embodiments, when the control module receives the signal from the CO.sub.2 controller, the control module causes (i) the damper to close and/or (ii) the CO.sub.2 delivery mode to be paused or stopped.

[0057] As described, the control module is also in communication with a CO.sub.2 controller. The CO.sub.2 controller is configured to monitor and measure a level of CO.sub.2 gas within the enclosed space. Upon measuring a threshold value, the CO.sub.2 controller sends a signal to the control module, causing the control module to (i) run the CO.sub.2 delivery mode and/or (ii) open the damper of the receptacle. In some embodiments, the threshold value for CO.sub.2 is set by a user. In some embodiments a user can set the threshold value at any desired value. In other embodiments the threshold value ranges from approximately 400 ppm to 1800 ppm, such as 600 ppm, 700 ppm, 800 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1200 ppm, 1600 ppm, or a level within a range defined by any two of the foregoing values.

[0058] FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 900 for dehumidifying an enclosed space according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the method 900 includes igniting a gas furnace, at 910. The method 900 also includes cooling an evaporator coil, at 915. In some embodiments, the evaporator coil is installed in serial air flow between an outdoor unit and the gas furnace. For example, the evaporator coil can be installed after the outdoor unit and prior to the return air orifice of the gas furnace. This positions the evaporator coil in front of (from an air flow perspective) the blower and the heat exchanger (i.e., coil) of the gas furnace 22. The evaporator coil is connected to the outdoor unit through standard capillary suction and liquid lines.

[0059] In some embodiments, and similar to the cooling mode described above, cooling the evaporator coil includes flowing cold gaseous refrigerant through the evaporator coil and transferring thermal energy from the evaporator coil to the gaseous refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant will warm as it passes through and cools the evaporator coil. The method 900 further includes passing air over the cooled evaporator coil, at 920. Again, similar to the cooling mode described above, as the air passes over the cooled evaporator coil, the evaporator coil will absorb thermal energy from the air. Additionally, any water or humidity present in the air will be cooled alongside the air and condense on the evaporator coil.

[0060] The condensed water will collect and, at step 925 of the method 900, drain out of the evaporator coil. In this way, the disclosed systems and methods dehumidify air being delivered to an enclosed space. The method 900 also includes passing the cooled and dehumidified air through the ignited gas furnace, at 930. As already explained, as the air passes through the gas furnace, it will pass over the coil of the gas furnace and be warmed. The air will be warmed to the set temperature, as determined by a thermostat. Warming the air will not introduce any undesirable moisture into the air.

[0061] The method 900 further includes delivering the heated and dehumidified air to the enclosed space. In some embodiments, the method 900 is executed and controlled by the system illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. A humidistat monitors and measures the humidity of the enclosed space and, in some embodiments, is configured to send a signal to the control monitor in response to the measured humidity. The control monitor can be configured to automatically run the dehumidification mode of the system when the measured humidity satisfies a threshold value.

[0062] Though not illustrated, in some embodiments, the methods 600, 700, 800, 900 can additionally include monitoring and/or measuring the temperature and/or humidity of the enclosed space. Further, the method 900 may also include running an operational mode (i.e., cooling, heating, dehumidification, and/or CO.sub.2 delivery) in response to the measured temperature and/or humidity of the enclosed space. In some embodiments, running the operational mode is automatically carried out by the control module. Specifically, the control module can be configured to send signals to the outdoor unit and/or the indoor unit to start, stop and/or change an operational mode.

[0063] As discussed, the control module and the system are configured to dynamically respond to measured values (e.g., temperature, humidity, CO.sub.2 levels, etc.) of the enclosed space. For example, as CO.sub.2 levels drop below a threshold or desired value (e.g., 25% or 400 ppm), the control module automatically activates the CO.sub.2 delivery mode of the system. After running the CO.sub.2 delivery mode, the system may monitor and measure another value of the enclosed space (e.g., temperature). In response to the subsequent measurement, the control module can automatically activate the appropriate operational mode, such as the heating mode, to ensure the enclosed space maintains the desired and set parameters.

EXAMPLES

[0064] The following illustrative example refers to the system illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. A user provides set parameter values for an enclosed space. Specifically, the user provides a temperature of 70? F., a humidity of 65%, and a CO.sub.2 gas level of 1200 ppm. The control module receives the user-provided values and receives a measured value for each parameter (temperature, humidity, and CO.sub.2 gas) from the plurality of monitors 40. In some embodiments, the control module 30 requests the measured values for each parameter from the plurality of monitors.

[0065] In response to the received measured values for each parameter, the control module 30 automatically selects and runs an operational mode of the system (see FIGS. 1-3). For example, the control module 30 can select the heating operational mode for the system if the measured temperature parameter is below the user-provided value of 70?F. To run the selected operational mode, the control module 30 also activates one or more components of the system. In the heating mode, for example, the control module 30 activates the gas furnace of the indoor unit to provide hot air to the enclosed space.

[0066] Once the user-provided value of 70?F has been achieved, the control module 30 will assess the other measured values for each parameters and evaluate whether they match the user-provided value. For example, the control module 30 may assess the measured value of CO.sub.2 gas for the enclosed space. If the measured value of CO.sub.2 gas is below the user-provided value of 1200 ppm, the control module 30 will activate one or more components of the system to run the CO.sub.2 delivery mode. Specifically, the control module 30 will activate the gas furnace to produce CO.sub.2 exhaust and will activate the damper of the receptacle to deliver the CO.sub.2 exhaust to the enclosed space.

[0067] In other embodiments, the control module 30 can prioritize the measured values for each parameter to evaluate whether the match the user-provided value. For example, the control module 30 may prioritize achieving the desired level of CO.sub.2, and therefore prioritize the CO.sub.2 delivery mode. Once the user-provided value for the desired level CO.sub.2 has been achieved, the control module 30 will assess the other measured values for each parameters and evaluate whether they match the user-provided value. For example, the control module 30 may then assess the measured temperature of the enclosed space. The control module 30 can continuously, nearly continuously, or intermittently check one or more the measured value for each parameter. In other embodiments, the control module 30 may be programmed to prioritize a particular parameter, and in yet other embodiments the control module 30 may allow a user to select a parameter to prioritize.

[0068] The control module 30 will continue the measuring, assessing, evaluating, and activating of system components to maintain the user-provided values for each parameter of the enclosed space. In this way, the control module can automatically run the appropriate operational mode without any user interference.

[0069] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination.

[0070] In one embodiment, the terms about and approximately refer to numerical parameters within 10% of the indicated range. The terms a, an, the, and similar referents used in the context of describing the embodiments of the present disclosure (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., such as) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments of the present disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0071] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0072] Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the author(s) of this disclosure for carrying out the embodiments disclosed herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The author(s) expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the author(s) intends for the embodiments of the present disclosure to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0073] Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using consisting of or consisting essentially of language. When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the transition term consisting of excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claims. The transition term consisting essentially of limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s). Embodiments of this disclosure so claimed are inherently or expressly described and enabled herein.

[0074] Although this disclosure provides many specifics, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of any of the claims that follow, but merely as providing illustrations of some embodiments of elements and features of the disclosed subject matter. Other embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and of their elements and features, may be devised which do not depart from the spirit or scope of any of the claims. Features from different embodiments may be employed in combination. Accordingly, the scope of each claim is limited only by its plain language and the legal equivalents thereto.