It's been a while since our last post! Let us recap our progress.
From October 28 to November 11, Milestone 1 Tasks 5-6 were revised to identify a heat transfer equation showcasing the relationship between velocity and the reduced time required to adjust the room to the desired temperature. The team observed a shift in emphasis from pressure to velocity (f/min). Although a local pressure difference was recognized right before and after the fan, it was considered negligible when taking the entire system into account (including the ducts, vents, and room).
Dr. Liu helped confirm the accuracy of the equation in the context of our experimental setup.
Energy Balance Equation
Milestone 2 is in the process of development, and Task 1 has been accomplished. During this task, we concluded our selections for the mainframe, fan, microcontroller, vent actuator, vent design, and temperature sensor. We additionally verified, using SolidWorks, that there are no conflicts among the individual components before 100% confirming the selection of components.
CAD of Compenent Integration
Concerns have arisen regarding the calculation of CFM. Initially, we operated under the assumption that CFM for a room with a vent could be determined by CFM = Velocity x Area. However, we discovered that the accurate equation involves a K-factor: CFM = Velocity x Area x K-factor. The K-factor represents the true free net area of the vents, considering the vent blade. This revelation has posed a challenge, necessitating the search for more robust fans.
Task 2 of calculating by hand the volumetric airflow using flow velocity of fan to compare CFD result was easliy given through the fan specs.
Moving forward, between November 11 and November 25, we are engaged in upcoming tasks that we aim to explain more thoroughly in our forthcoming blog post.
As stated, since Task 1 of Milestone 2 was completed, the team is striving to complete tasks 3-5 and finialize task 7 by November 27. In efforts to reach such a goal, Milestone 2 task work has been divided among the team.
Carlos Medina will identify and calculate the mathematical correlation between air velocity and area using the "Equation of Continuity." It is crucial to modify turbulent flow to ensure its relevance to our specific scenario, particularly given our discovery that laminar flow does not factor in the vent being closed.
Gia Thy will complete Task 3 and Task 5 since both rely on SolidWork Simulation Flow. Both require verifying the specification and math completed in Task 2 and Task 4, completed by Joan and Carlos, respectively. Gerardo’s job is to conduct CFD on the assembly to ensure there are no airflow impeded by the fan or the vents.
Gerardo will be updating the assembly of the mechanism, verifying the components fall within constraints if any changes are needed.
Carlos and Joan - Task 4
Gerardo - Task 3 and 5
Thy - Task 6
As we progress in the development of our ventilation enhancement vent device, we foresee encountering several significant challenges that have led to multiple revisions of the final device.
Anticipated challenges lie in Task 3 and Task 5 of Milestone 2, involving the analysis with SolidWorks Simulation Flow to understand how the fan influences airflow. The concern revolves around the accuracy of the fan's interaction with the existing airflow. In preparation for this challenge, Gerardo has been acquiring proficiency with the software to ensure precise input of force and motion. The primary focus is on accurately representing these parameters within the simulation.
Gerardo Replicating a Rectangular Duct.
Gallery Update: 11/02/2023
Carlos decided to explore the options available at Home Depot. After analyzing different types, we realized how stiff the adjuster is, which might require changing the servo if it's not strong enough.
10/20/2023
Thy advises the team that there should be at least 2 fans to increase air velocity and to achieve the desired CFM.
11/11/2023
Gerardo - CFD
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