Patent Description:
Air conditioning and/or cooling for outdoor areas can pose challenges due to moving air currents, thermal transfer, heat dissipation, lack of containment, etc. Accordingly, it may be advantageous to provide cooling units that can enable outdoor cooling in an efficient manner.

<CIT> relates to a free-standing evaporative air cooling system, including a base, at least one air inlet and at least one cooling pad. A neck extends upwardly relative to the base and includes at least one upwardly-oriented air flow passageway in gaseous communication with the air inlet(s). At least one air outlet is disposed proximate to the upper end of the neck and is in gaseous communication with the air flow passageway.

A cooling unit according to the invention includes a base having a housing with control components installed therein, a cooling tower attached to the base at a first end of the cooling tower, the cooling tower having an inner flow path and an exterior surface, and an air distribution system attached to the cooling tower at a second end of the cooling tower. The air distribution system includes a first enclosure, a second enclosure defining an air distribution chamber between the first and second enclosures, a cool air dispenser configured in the first enclosure, a warm air dispenser configured in the first enclosure at a location different from the cool air dispenser, and a cover disposed on an exterior surface of the second enclosure. The control components are configured to convey air through the base, the cooling tower, and the air distribution system to dispense air through the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser. A cooling unit water supply is arranged to cool air within the cooling unit and an air cooled chiller is mounted on top of the air distribution system, wherein water from the cooling unit water supply is conveyed to the air cooled chiller to provide cooling to the water. A plurality of ducts connect the cooling tower to at least one of the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser. The plurality of ducts are connected to a diffuser chamber that encompasses the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include a pump arranged to pump water from the cooling unit water supply to the air cooled chiller.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include a water treatment module fluidly connected to the cooling unit water supply to treat the water of the cooling unit water supply.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include a thermal insulating layer applied to the air distribution system.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include that cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser are configured as a plurality of dispersing apertures arranged to generate a cool air shower that falls from the first enclosure.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include that the plurality of dispersing apertures are part of a porous material.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include a ducting supply chamber arranged at the top of the cooling tower and located within the air distribution system, wherein the plurality of ducts are connected to the ducting supply chamber.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include that a plurality of first ducts connect the cooling tower to the cool air dispenser and a plurality of second ducts connect the cooling tower to the warm air dispenser.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include an electronics package.

Further embodiments of the cooling unit may include the electronics package includes at least one of a camera, a display, and a speaker.

Technical effects of embodiments of the present disclosure include cooling units that are modular, energy efficient, and provide cooling for areas (e.g., outdoor areas) that typically cannot be cooled for various reasons.

The foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated otherwise, within the scope of the appended claims.

Air conditioning and/or cooling for outdoor areas can pose challenges due to moving air currents, thermal transfer, heat dissipation, lack of containment, etc. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to portable and/or modular cooling units that can be installed indoors or outdoors that provide regions of cooling air for persons in proximity to the cooling units.

For example, turning to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the cooling unit <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, a cooling tower <NUM>, and an air distribution system <NUM>. The cooling unit <NUM> is configured to employ water cooling to generate cooled or conditioned air that can be distributed from the air distribution system <NUM> to an area around the cooling unit <NUM>. The components of the cooling unit <NUM> can be modular, with the cooling tower <NUM> being removably attached to the base <NUM> and the air distribution system <NUM> being removably attached to the cooling tower <NUM>. In some embodiment, a single fixed structure can be formed, and in other embodiment, two of the components can be fixed together, with the third component being removably attached (e.g., fixed base and cooling tower, with changeable and/or exchangeable air distribution systems). Accordingly, the cooling unit <NUM> is not only module but also customizable.

The base <NUM>, as shown, includes a housing <NUM> that contains control components <NUM> and, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, a blower <NUM>. The housing <NUM> of the base <NUM> is structured and configured to support the cooling tower <NUM> and the air distribution system <NUM>. Further, the housing <NUM> can include a first cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> that enables fluid communication between an interior of the housing <NUM> and the cooling tower <NUM> that is mounted to the base <NUM>. As such, in some embodiments, the housing <NUM> can include framing, supports, etc. that are configured to provide structural rigidity and support to the other aspects of the cooling unit <NUM>. Further, in some configurations the housing <NUM> can include various exterior features such as seating, cushions, etc. that are designed to enable persons in proximity to the cooling unit <NUM> to sit within a cooled air zone generated by the cooling unit <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, the housing <NUM> can include one or more inlet vents or apertures <NUM> on an exterior surface of the housing <NUM> to enable air to flow into the interior of the base <NUM>. Additional connectors or features can be included as described herein and/or as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The control components <NUM> can include electronic controllers (e.g., processors, microprocessors, memory, etc.), switches, motors, pumps, valves, heat exchanger components, etc. that are configured to control operation of the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, the control components <NUM> include fluid or liquid control components that can be used to direct and control fluid flow into, through, and out of the cooling unit <NUM>. Further, the control components <NUM> can include a fan controller to control the blower <NUM> to control a fan speed and/or direction of the blower <NUM>. The controller components <NUM> can also include sensors or detectors that are configured to, for example, monitor temperatures (e.g., water and/or air temperatures), humidity in proximity to the cooling unit <NUM>, air flow speeds in and through the cooling unit <NUM>, power consumption and/or generation, fluid flows, etc. The sensors of the control components <NUM> may not be installed in the location schematically shown in <FIG>, but rather may be installed at various locations in, on, and/or around the cooling unit <NUM> and may be in communication with a processor or other controller of the control components <NUM>.

As noted, the blower <NUM> is configured within the cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The blower <NUM> is configured to direct and move air from the interior of the housing <NUM> into and through the cooling tower <NUM>. The cooling tower <NUM>, as noted, is mounted to or otherwise installed at a first end <NUM> (e.g., bottom) to the base <NUM> such that the cooling tower <NUM> is supported by the base <NUM>. The cooling tower <NUM> defines a flow path that is configured to enable fluids (e.g., air, water, etc.) to be moved between the base <NUM> and the air distribution system <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the cooling tower <NUM> can include an inner flow path <NUM> within a conduit <NUM>. As such, the conduit <NUM> defines a hollow channel to enable air and/or water to be conveyed from the base <NUM> to the air distribution system <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> includes an exterior surface <NUM> that can provide various functionalities as described herein.

Although shown in <FIG> with the blower <NUM> located within the housing <NUM> of the base <NUM>, this configuration is not intended to be limiting. For example, in some alternative configurations, the blower/fan can be configured within the air distribution system at the top of the cooling unit. In such configurations, the blower/fan can be configured to pull air upward through the conduit, rather than pushing the air through the conduit (when positioned at the bottom of the conduit). Further still, in other embodiments, the blower/fan can be mounted and positioned within the cooling tower (e.g., at some vertical position between the base and the air distribution system). Further still, in some embodiments, multiple blowers/fans can be employed and positioned at different locations within the cooling unit.

The air that is passed through the cooling tower <NUM> is conveyed into the air distribution system <NUM> that is mounted and/or installed at a second end <NUM> (e.g., top) of the cooling tower <NUM>. The air distribution system <NUM> includes various components that are configured to distribute conditioned air to an area or volume surrounding the cooling unit <NUM>. Accordingly, the air distribution system <NUM> can be open to or otherwise fluidly connected to the conduit <NUM> such that air and/or water can flow from the flow path <NUM> into an air distribution chamber <NUM> defined within the air distribution system <NUM>. That is, the air distribution chamber <NUM> is fluidly connected to the flow path <NUM> through a second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM>.

The air distribution chamber <NUM> is defined between a first enclosure <NUM> and a second enclosure <NUM>. The first enclosure <NUM> can include connectors, fasteners, or other mechanisms to rigidly connect and attach the air distribution system <NUM> to the cooling tower <NUM>. The second enclosure <NUM> can be fixedly connected to the first enclosure <NUM> to define the air distribution chamber <NUM>. In other embodiments, the first enclosure <NUM> and the second enclosure <NUM> can be integrally formed or molded to define the air distribution chamber <NUM>. In any given configuration, the upper and first enclosures <NUM>, <NUM> can be relatively fluidly sealed except where defined and required by the particular configuration of the cooling unit <NUM> (e.g., not sealed at the second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> or at other locations as described herein).

The air distribution chamber <NUM> can be divided into multiple subchambers that are fluidly separated from each other at the first enclosure <NUM>. For example, as shown, a first subchamber <NUM> is defined within a cool air conduit <NUM> that is located within the air distribution chamber <NUM>. The cool air conduit <NUM> fluidly connects the second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> to one or more cool air dispensers <NUM>. A second subchamber <NUM> is defined between the cool air conduit <NUM> and the second enclosure <NUM>. The second subchamber fluidly connects the second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> to one or more warm air dispensers <NUM>. The air dispensers <NUM>, <NUM> can be nozzles, jets, tubes, holes, or apertures extending through or from or formed in the first enclosure <NUM>. Thus, although shown in <FIG> as extending from the first enclosure <NUM>, in some embodiments, the air dispensers <NUM>, <NUM> can be holes or other structures that are flush with or do not extend from the first enclosure <NUM>.

Also shown in <FIG>, the second enclosure <NUM> can include an optional cover <NUM> on an exterior surface thereof. In some embodiments, the cover <NUM> can include solar panels or other power generating mechanisms. In other embodiments, the cover <NUM> can be a paint or coating applied to the exterior surface of the second enclosure <NUM>. In such embodiments, the paint or coating can be used for advertisements, logos, or can have functional effects, such as cooling, energy generation, light reflection, etc. Further, in some embodiments, the cover <NUM> can be a canvas or other material sheet or similar covering that can be attached to the top of the cooling unit <NUM>. The air within the second subchamber <NUM> can be in thermal communication with the cover <NUM> to provide cooling to the second subchamber <NUM> (e.g., the air in the second subchamber <NUM> can cool solar panels installed on the second enclosure <NUM>).

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustration showing a cooled area <NUM> that is achieved through operation of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. That is, <FIG> illustrates a non-limiting configuration of an air circuit as produced by operation of cooling units in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The cooling unit <NUM> is similar to that shown and described with respect to <FIG>, and thus, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, the same or similar features will not be labeled and described again.

The cooling unit <NUM> is configured to generate the cooled area <NUM> through conditioning air within the cooling unit <NUM> and then dispensing the conditioned air into the cooled area <NUM> that is defined around the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, the cooled area <NUM> can be partially contained under the air distribution system <NUM>, which can have a configuration and components similar to that described above.

Operation of the cooling unit <NUM> can be controlled by control components that are housed within a base <NUM> of the cooling unit <NUM>, within the air distribution system <NUM>, within a cooling tower <NUM>, and/or by a controller that is remote from the cooling unit <NUM>. In <FIG>, the dashed lines proximate to the cooling unit <NUM> define the cooled area <NUM> which included cooled and/or conditioned air that is dispersed from the cooling unit <NUM>. A blower <NUM> is operated to pull ambient air <NUM>, e.g., from the cooled area <NUM>, into the housing of the base <NUM>. The air can then be optionally conditioned into conditioned air <NUM> using a heat exchanger or other air conditioning element(s), as described below. The ambient air <NUM> can be moist or dry, hot or cold, etc. and the components within the base <NUM> will either extract moisture or inject moisture, depending on the desired operating conditions, thus generating the conditioned air <NUM>.

The blower <NUM> will force the conditioned air <NUM> from the base <NUM> into the cooling tower <NUM>. Within the cooling tower <NUM>, the conditioned air <NUM> can be further conditioned by water droplets <NUM> that cascade or fall from the top of the cooling tower <NUM> (e.g., second end <NUM> in <FIG>) toward the bottom of the cooling tower <NUM> (e.g., first end <NUM> in <FIG>). The water droplets <NUM> are illustrated as stippling within the cooling tower <NUM> and the conditioned air <NUM> is indicated as upward direction arrows within the cooling tower <NUM>. Thus, the conditioned air <NUM> can be further conditioned by mixing the conditioned air <NUM> with water in the form of the water droplets <NUM>. In some embodiments, if the conditioned air <NUM> is not preconditioned within the base <NUM>, the conditioning of the conditioned air <NUM> can be achieved as it passes through the cooling tower <NUM>.

The water droplets <NUM> can be supplied from the base <NUM> through one or more fluid supply lines (e.g., see <FIG>). The water droplets <NUM> can be pre-cooled or pre-chilled using various mechanics, including, but not limited to a heat exchanger within the base <NUM>. Mixing the conditioned air <NUM> with the water droplets <NUM> can condition or otherwise "refresh" the air as it passes through the water droplets <NUM>. Such conditioning may have limits based on ambient or outside air wet bulb temperature. Thus, the water of the water droplets <NUM> can be pre-chilled to a predetermined temperature or temperature range (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> °F)) to reduce a humidity level of the conditioned air <NUM>.

In addition to pre-cooled or pre-chilled water (e.g., water droplets <NUM>) being dispensed into the cooling tower <NUM> to condition the conditioned air <NUM>, cool water can be cascaded down an exterior surface of the cooling tower <NUM>. That is, with reference again to <FIG>, cool water can be cascaded down the exterior surface <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>, and thus provide local cooling adjacent the cooling tower <NUM>. Accordingly, a cold "waterfall" can be provided on the exterior surface of the cooling tower <NUM> to enable additional cooling of both the ambient air immediately around the cooling tower <NUM> and within the conduit of the cooling tower <NUM>.

The conditioned air <NUM> will then enter into the air distribution chamber of the air distribution system <NUM>. The conditioned air will then move through the air distribution chamber to the first and second subchambers through which the conditioned air can exit the air distribution system at the air dispensers described above. For example, a portion of the conditioned air <NUM> can enter the first subchamber and exit through the cool air dispensers to provide cool, saturated air <NUM> (e.g., high moisture content) to the cooled area <NUM>. Simultaneously, another portion of the conditioned air <NUM> can enter the second subchamber and exit through the warm air dispensers to provide dry, warm air <NUM> at an exterior or edge of the air distribution system <NUM>. The dry, warm air <NUM> can define a bounded cooled area <NUM>. The cooled area <NUM> can thus contain comfortable, conditioned air that may be pleasant to users of the cooling unit <NUM>. As shown, the air may be cycled through the above described operation, wherein new air <NUM> can be pulled into the system (e.g., into the cooled area <NUM>) and some amount of bleed air <NUM> will leave the cooled area <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the dry, warm air <NUM> that is dispensed from warm air dispensers <NUM> can be used to, at least in part, contain the cooled area <NUM>. Thus, in some non-limiting embodiments, the warm air dispensers <NUM> can be angled to optimize this function. For example, the warm air dispensers <NUM> can be angled perpendicular to or at <NUM>° from the first enclosure <NUM> (e.g., directly downward). Further, in some embodiments, the cool air dispensers <NUM> can be angled at a desired angle to provide optimized cool, saturated air <NUM> into the cooled area <NUM>. For example, the cool air dispensers <NUM> can be angled at about <NUM>° relative to the first enclosure <NUM>.

Further, in some embodiments, the air dispensers <NUM>, <NUM> can be passive and the air can be dispensed therefrom based on the velocity and pressure differentials that exist due to thermal gradients, humidity variations, and/or the power of the blower/fan <NUM>/<NUM>. Alternatively, one or more of the air dispensers <NUM>, <NUM> can be powered to accelerate the air as it is expelled from the air distribution chamber <NUM>. For example, in one non-limiting configuration, the warm air dispensers <NUM> can be powered to generate an air curtain about the cooled area <NUM> and the cool air dispensers <NUM> can be powered or unpowered to provide cool air within the cooled area <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> is similar to that described above, and thus similar features may not be labeled or discussed again. <FIG> illustrate a non-limiting configuration of a water circuit that is employed by cooling units in accordance with the present disclosure.

As shown, the cooling unit <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, a cooling tower <NUM>, and an air distribution system <NUM>, similar to that described above. The base <NUM> includes various components that are part of control components of the cooling unit <NUM> (e.g., control components <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a housing <NUM> of the base <NUM> houses a heat exchange system <NUM> for providing pre-cooling to water that is employed within the cooling unit <NUM>. In one non-limiting configuration, the heat exchange system <NUM> can include a water-to-water mini-chiller. A heat rejection inlet line <NUM> and a heat rejection outlet line <NUM> are fluidly connected to one portion of the heat exchange system <NUM> and are configured to extract heat from water that is cycled through the heat exchange system <NUM>. A cooling unit water supply <NUM> is used for providing the water droplets <NUM> and exterior cool water <NUM> on an exterior surface <NUM> of the cooling tower <NUM>, as described above and shown in <FIG>. A cooling unit water supply line <NUM> can be used to circulate water from the cooling unit water supply <NUM>, through the heat exchange system <NUM>, and to a water dispenser <NUM> that generates and disperses the water droplets <NUM> and the exterior cool water <NUM> from within an air distribution chamber <NUM> of the air distribution system <NUM>. Further, as shown, a pump <NUM> can be configured along the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> to pump the chilled water to the water dispenser <NUM>.

As shown, the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> is configured within and passes through the interior of the cooling tower <NUM>. In other embodiments, the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> can be configured in other ways, such as, for example, extending along an exterior surface of the cooling tower <NUM>. However, it may be advantageous to run the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> through the interior of the cooling tower <NUM> to provide insulation and cooling to the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> and/or thermal exchange with conditioned air and/or water droplets passing through the cooling tower.

The various aspects of the cooling unit <NUM> can be powered by a power source that is part of the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the powered components (e.g., heat exchange system <NUM>) can be powered through solar power generation provided by a cover <NUM> in the form of photovoltaic panels or other solar power generation mechanisms. The cover <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, is supported on a second enclosure <NUM> of the air distribution system <NUM> by one or more supports <NUM>. In some embodiments, the supports <NUM> can be omitted and the cover can be directly applied to or otherwise attached to the exterior surface of the second enclosure <NUM>.

In addition, or alternatively, the cooling unit <NUM> can be provided with batteries <NUM> that can be housed within the base <NUM>. The batteries <NUM> can be configured as electrical power storage devices that store power generated by the solar panels of the cover <NUM>. In other configurations, the batteries <NUM> can be charged using grid power. Additionally, in some embodiments, the cooling unit <NUM> can be connected to a generator, grid power, or other power sources as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art.

Turning to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling system <NUM> incorporating multiple cooling units <NUM> in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The illustration of the cooling system <NUM> is a plan schematic view (i.e., looking downward from above). Each of the cooling units <NUM> can be configured in accordance with the above described embodiments and/or variations thereon. Because of the multiple cooling units <NUM> the cooling system <NUM> can define an enlarged cooled area <NUM> that is generated by the cooling provided each of the individual cooling units <NUM>.

As shown, the cooling units <NUM> can be arranged such that they can be fluidly connected to a heat rejection water system <NUM>. The heat rejection water system <NUM> can be fluidly connected to the base of each of the cooling units <NUM> (e.g., as described above to enable heat exchange within the cooling units). A heat rejection inlet supply <NUM> can be provided and fluidly connected to the heat rejection inlet line of each individual cooling unit <NUM>. Similarly, a heat rejection outlet supply <NUM> can be fluidly connected to the heat rejection outlet line of each individual cooling unit <NUM>. The heat rejection inlet and outlet supplies <NUM>, <NUM> can be used to provide thermal exchange at each cooling unit <NUM> and thus enable the cooling as described above.

The heat rejection inlet supply <NUM> can include a heat rejection pump <NUM> that is configured to convey water through the heat rejection inlet supply <NUM> and the heat rejection outlet supply <NUM>. The heat rejection outlet supply <NUM> can be fluidly connected to a hot water network <NUM> or other water system (e.g., a water utility network) and thus the hot water generated by the cooling units <NUM> can be recovered and used for other functions. Furthermore, an optional dry cooler <NUM> can be provided to enable heat absorption to be able to condition the heat rejection water that is provided through the heat rejection inlet supply <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> is similar to that described above, and thus similar features may not be labeled or discussed again. <FIG> illustrates a non-limiting configuration of alternative configuration of a cooling unit in accordance with the present disclosure.

As shown, the cooling unit <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, a cooling tower <NUM>, and an air distribution system <NUM>, similar to that described above. The base <NUM> includes various components that are part of control components of the cooling unit <NUM> (e.g., control components <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a housing <NUM> of the base <NUM> houses a heat exchange system <NUM> for providing pre-cooling to water that is employed within the cooling unit <NUM>. As shown, the heat exchange system <NUM> includes a water-to-water mini-chiller. A heat rejection inlet line <NUM> and a heat rejection outlet line <NUM> are fluidly connected to one portion of the heat exchange system <NUM> and are configured to extract heat from water that is cycled through the heat exchange system <NUM>. A cooling unit water supply <NUM> is used for providing water droplets and exterior cool water from a water dispenser <NUM>. A cooling unit water supply line <NUM> can be used to circulate water from the cooling unit water supply <NUM>, through the heat exchange system <NUM>, and to the water dispenser <NUM> within an air distribution chamber <NUM> of the air distribution system <NUM>. Further, as shown, a pump <NUM> can be configured along the cooling unit water supply line <NUM> to pump the chilled water to the water dispenser <NUM>.

In the present configuration, the heat rejection inlet line <NUM> and the heat rejection outlet line <NUM> are locally contained such that the cooling unit <NUM> can be self-contained, in contrast to the above described embodiments that are fluidly connected to a centralized heat rejection system. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the heat exchange system <NUM> can include a mounted heat rejection unit <NUM>, such as a dry cooler, located on the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the mounted heat rejection unit <NUM> can be mounted on or above the air distribution system <NUM> (e.g., on top of a cover <NUM>). Advantageously, such configuration can eliminate the need for local infrastructure (e.g., no need for a water piping network). The mounted heat rejection unit <NUM> can include a fan, blower, cooling tubes, cooling finds, or other heat transfer and diffusing mechanisms.

Turning now to <FIG>, another alternative configuration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> may be employed in situations where ambient conditions provide excess water in the system (e.g., water contained in humid air will condensate in cold water in cooling tower and in external water fall). Accordingly, a condensate evacuation system <NUM> can be configured to extract and dispose of the excess water, e.g., from the cooling unit water supply <NUM>. Such condensate evacuation system <NUM> can be employed in any of the above described embodiments, or variations thereon, although the cooling unit <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated similar to that shown in <FIG>, the condensate evacuation system <NUM> is not so limited.

In one non-limiting configuration, the condensate water may be pressurized to direct the condensate water to a mounted heat rejection unit <NUM> (e.g., similar to that shown in <FIG>). Advantageously, such configuration can evacuate excess water to the air above an air distribution system <NUM> (e.g., no need for connection to heat rejection system) and the efficiency and/or effectiveness of the mounted heat rejection unit <NUM> can be improved (e.g., the condensate water can lower entering air temperature).

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this embodiment, the cooling unit <NUM> includes a water treatment module <NUM> that is arranged in the water recycling circuit (e.g., proximate a pump or similar equipment). The water that is cycled through the cooling unit <NUM> is in direct contact with the air surrounding the cooling unit <NUM>. Thus, the water of the system can be used to filter or clean the air. That is, the water can be used to extract or collect contaminants, particulates, pollution, etc. from the air, and thus act as an air-cleaner. However, as the water collects such contaminants, the water itself may become contaminated, and thus cleaning or filtering the water may be required.

Accordingly, in the cooling unit <NUM> of the present embodiment, a cooling unit water supply <NUM> is employed similar to that described above and the water treatment module <NUM> is located downstream from the cooling unit water supply <NUM> and upstream of an air distribution system <NUM>. The water treatment module <NUM> is arranged to treat or "clean" the water as it is conveyed to the air distribution system <NUM>. Accordingly, the cooling unit <NUM> can be arranged to act as an "air washer.

To clean the air (and water) that surrounds the cooling unit <NUM>, the water treatment module <NUM> can be configured to extract or remove dust and/or other particles/components from the water as it is cycled through the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, different filters (e.g., physical, chemical, etc.) can be employed to remove various contaminants or undesirable properties that are collected within the water, particularly within the cooling unit water supply <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this embodiment, the cooling unit <NUM> includes an air cooled chiller <NUM>, as shown mounted on top of an air distribution system <NUM>. A cooling unit water supply line <NUM> fluidly connects a cooling unit water supply <NUM> with the air cooled chiller <NUM>. A pump <NUM> can be arranged to direct a portion of the water from the cooling unit water supply <NUM> up to the air cooled chiller <NUM>. As the water passes through the air cooled chiller <NUM>, heat will be dissipated, thus cooling the water. The air cooled water can then be directed to a water dispenser <NUM> of the air distribution system <NUM>, to subsequently cool an area around the air distribution system <NUM>.

Various air chiller configurations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, specific adiabatic cooling ramps may be applied to the air that enters into the air cooled chiller <NUM>. It will be appreciated that adiabatic cooling as employed herein means refreshing the air by adding droplets of water to the air stream. In a case when the air is relatively dry, adding water droplets result in lowering air temperatures. In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the systems will have access to water (e.g., humidity from the air will condensate on cold water in a system and the water will be collected/stored/accessible in the cooling unit water supply <NUM>). Accordingly, the water can be reused by refreshing the air entering an air cooled chiller condenser. Reducing air temperature entering to the chiller-condenser can result in lower condensing temperature and thus result in higher unit efficiency (e.g., lower energy consumption) and higher unit capacity. Similar efficiencies can be achieved using a "dry cooler" and water cooled chiller with condenser loop connected to the dry cooler.

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this illustration, only an air distribution system <NUM> is schematically shown for simplicity. Although not shown in <FIG>, as shown and described above a conduit is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into an air distribution chamber <NUM> defined within the air distribution system <NUM>. In this embodiment, rather than a dual-feed/dispensing system, such as that shown and described above (e.g., <FIG>). In this embodiment, all cooled/moist air is conveyed into the distribution chamber <NUM>, and subsequently dispersed therefrom.

A single chamber without divisions therein is employed in this embodiment. As such, one stream of air (homogenic) will be employed and only air dispenser <NUM> will be installed along a periphery of the air distribution system <NUM>. In such embodiments, the cool air may enter the distribution chamber <NUM> and be warmed by an exterior surface/top of the air distribution system <NUM>. However, such air will still be cooler than ambient air, and a cooled area will still be generated around the cooling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, a controlled re-heating can be employed to improve efficiencies. For example, materials of the various components, elements, and parts of the systems of the present disclosure can be selected to have specific heat transfer characteristics, and thus, transferring heat to and/or from an air stream can be customized and/or optimized for a specific system.

Turning to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this illustration, only an air distribution system <NUM> is schematically shown for simplicity. Although not shown in <FIG>, as shown and described above a conduit is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into an air distribution chamber <NUM> defined within the air distribution system <NUM>. In this embodiment, rather than a dual-feed/dispensing system, such as that shown and described above (e.g., <FIG>). In this embodiment, all cooled/moist air is conveyed into the distribution chamber <NUM>, and subsequently dispersed therefrom.

In this embodiment, the air distribution system <NUM> is arranged with a thermal insulator <NUM> that can be arranged over a top of the air distribution system <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, as shown, the thermal insulator <NUM> may be arranged between the air distribution system <NUM> and a cover <NUM>. In some such embodiments, the cover <NUM> may include a coating or similar property to aid in cooling the cooling unit <NUM>. This arrangement may enable a cold saturated cooling air to be dispensed from the distribution chamber <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. <FIG> is a side cross-sectional illustration of the cooling unit <NUM> and <FIG> is a plan view looking at the bottom of the cooling unit <NUM>. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this illustration, an air distribution system <NUM> is shown being supplied with moist, cool air through a conduit <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into an air distribution chamber <NUM> defined within the air distribution system <NUM>. The air distribution chamber <NUM> is defined between a first enclosure <NUM> and a second enclosure <NUM>, similar to that described above. As schematically shown, and as described above, the second enclosure <NUM> can include a thermal insulator <NUM> and a cover <NUM>.

In this embodiment, rather than a dual-feed/dispensing system, such as that shown and described above (e.g., <FIG>), the moist, cooled air is dispersed from a single air distribution chamber <NUM> that is not separated. Further, rather than using discrete air dispensers (e.g., nozzles or other structures), the first enclosure <NUM> (or a portion thereof) is formed of a porous material or configuration that includes a plurality of dispersing apertures <NUM> (e.g., holes, perforated plate, porous material, etc.). As such, in this embodiment, a curtain-like air arrangement may not be achieved. However, a relatively uniform distribution of cool, moist air may be provided within the area below the cooling unit <NUM>. In some such embodiments, the diffusion system for the cold umbrella concept may be a porous media type of diffusion, or as noted, perforated or venting holes can be formed in the material of the first enclosure <NUM>. In this arrangement, the diffusion of cooled air will act as falling air shower with very low air velocity, with the cold air pulled through the material of the first enclosure <NUM> by the force of gravity (e.g., cold air is more dense and naturally falls).

Turning now to <FIG>, schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. <FIG> is a side cross-sectional illustration of the cooling unit <NUM> and <FIG> is a plan view looking at the bottom of the cooling unit <NUM>. The cooling unit <NUM> may be similar to various of the above described embodiments, and thus similar features may not be described above. In this illustration, an air distribution system <NUM> is shown being supplied with moist, cool air through a conduit <NUM> (schematically shown). The conduit <NUM> is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into ducting supply chamber <NUM> located within an air distribution chamber <NUM>. The ducting supply chamber <NUM> is fluidly connected to a plurality of ducts <NUM>, <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the ducts <NUM>, <NUM> are flexible air ducts (which may be singular or in multiple) which connect the ducting supply chamber <NUM> (which received saturated cold air from the conduit <NUM>) to respective diffusers <NUM>, <NUM>. Similar to some embodiments described above, cool, saturated air can be directed through a first duct <NUM> (and out first diffusers <NUM>) and dry air can be directed through a second duct <NUM> (and out second diffusers <NUM>). As such, a curtain can be generated by the output through the second diffusers <NUM> to contain the cool air from the first diffusers <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first duct <NUM> may be thermally insulated and the second duct <NUM> that supplies "dry air" may not be insulated. The second duct <NUM> can thus act as heat exchanger between air and the adjacent space (e.g., the air distribution chamber <NUM>). The air in the second duct <NUM> will be reheated and the surrounding air within the air distribution chamber <NUM> will be cooled. The cooler air within the air distribution chamber <NUM> can be used to cool an energy generation element that is mounted to the cooling unit <NUM> (e.g., photovoltaic panels, etc.). Such cooling can enable improved efficiency of such energy generation elements.

Turning now to <FIG>, schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. <FIG> is a side cross-sectional illustration of the cooling unit <NUM> and <FIG> is a plan view looking at the bottom of the cooling unit <NUM>. The cooling unit <NUM> is substantially similar to the cooling unit <NUM> of <FIG>, having an air distribution system <NUM> supplied with moist, cool air through a conduit <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into ducting supply chamber <NUM> located within an air distribution chamber <NUM>. The ducting supply chamber <NUM> is fluidly connected to a plurality of ducts <NUM>, <NUM>, which in turn disperse air through respective diffusers <NUM>, <NUM>. The difference between the present embodiment and that of <FIG> is the shape of the cooling unit <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the cooling unit <NUM> has a rounded shape in cross-section. However, in plan view, rather than the circular shape of the prior shown and described embodiments, the cooling unit is squared (or rectangular). As a result, the diffusers <NUM>, <NUM> of the present embodiment are linear (as compared to the circular diffusers <NUM>, <NUM> shown in <FIG>).

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> has an air distribution system <NUM> supplied with moist, cool air through a conduit <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path into a ducting supply chamber <NUM> located within an air distribution chamber <NUM>. The ducting supply chamber <NUM> is fluidly connected to a plurality of ducts <NUM>, <NUM> similar to the arrangements described above. However, the ducts <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged to connect to a single diffuser chamber <NUM>, which in turn disperses air through a diffuser <NUM>. The diffuser chamber <NUM> can provide for mixing of cool moist air and dry air within the diffuser chamber <NUM> as supplied from the ducts <NUM>, <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> has an air distribution system <NUM> supplied with moist, cool air through a conduit <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> is arranged to supply air and/or water through a flow path a second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM>, similar to that shown and described with respect to <FIG>. The second cooling tower connection aperture <NUM> provides air into a cool air conduit defining a first subchamber <NUM> of an air distribution chamber <NUM> and a second subchamber <NUM> thereof (similar to the structure shown and described with respect to <FIG>). However, the subchambers <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged to fluidly connect to a single diffuser chamber <NUM>, which in turn disperses air through a diffuser <NUM>. The diffuser chamber <NUM>, similar to the embodiment of <FIG>, can provide for mixing of cool moist air and dry air within the diffuser chamber <NUM> as supplied from the subchamber <NUM>, <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a schematic illustrations of a cooling unit <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling unit <NUM> has an air distribution system <NUM> arranged to generate a cooled area thereunder, as shown and described above. In this embodiment, the cooing unit <NUM> is configured with a control system <NUM> and an electronics package <NUM>. In this illustrative embodiment, the electronics package <NUM> includes a first electronics element 1606a, a second electronics element 1606b, and a third electronics element 1606c, although more or fewer electronics elements may be included in the electronics package of various embodiments.

The control system <NUM> may be a computer or processor element arrange to control operation of the cooling unit <NUM>. The control system <NUM> can be in communication with one or more elements of the cooling unit <NUM> (e.g., pumps, motors, etc. that are used to generate a cool area around the cooling unit <NUM>). Further, the control system <NUM> can be in communication with one or more of the electronics elements 1606a, 1606b, 1606c of the electronics package <NUM>. In some embodiments, the control system <NUM> may be configured to control operation of the cooling unit <NUM> based on information obtained from one or more of the electronics elements 1606a, 1606b, 1606c of the electronics package <NUM>.

As shown, the first electronics element 1606a is illustratively shown as a camera mounted to the cooling unit <NUM>. The camera may be arranged to capture images and/or video of the cooling unit <NUM> and/or the area around the cooling unit <NUM>. For example, the camera may be employed to detect damage or malfunction of the cooling unit <NUM>. Further, the camera may be employed to detect if persons are in proximity to the cooling unit <NUM>. If damage or malfunction is detected, a call for maintenance may be automatically made from the control system <NUM>. Further, if one or more persons are detected in proximity to the cooling unit <NUM>, the control system <NUM> can activate the cooling air generation by operation of the cooling unit <NUM>. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the camera can be employed to monitor weather conditions (if the control system <NUM> is not connected to a weather system trigger - e.g., the internet and internal software), optimization of specific modes relative to outside conditions can be achieved.

The control system <NUM> can also be in communication with the parts of the cooling unit <NUM> that enable operation and generation of the cooling area, as noted above. For example, by being connected to or in communication with a filter monitor/sensor, flow sensors, etc. optimization of maintenance may be achieved.

As noted above, the control system <NUM> may be connected to the internet and have internal software and programming to trigger specific operational parameters based on information received through a connection. For example, the control system <NUM> may be connected to weather forecast systems and can be arranged to enable change mode of operation in case of unfavorable weather conditions (wind, storm, rein, etc.). Additionally, the internet connection may enable remote operation by an operator to control the cooling unit from a remote location.

The electronics package <NUM> can also include other devices such as displays, routers, speakers, information dissemination devices, etc. For example, as schematically shown, the second electronics element 1606b is a screen or display that is mounted to the cooling tower of the cooling unit <NUM>. The second electronics element 1606b can be used to provide information to persons within the cooling area of the cooling unit <NUM>. The second electronics element 1606b can include one or more speakers for outputting audio to persons in proximity to the cooling unit <NUM>.

The third electronics element 1606c can be a data transmission device (e.g., a router or other wireless broadcasting device and/or connection device). As such, the cooling unit <NUM> can operate as a hotspot for persons using the cooling unit <NUM> and thus provide an internet connection to such users. In some embodiments, the data transmission device can be any type of connection, wired or wireless, to enable connection capability, including but not limited to, a router, a femtocell, an LTE or other cellular broadcasting device, etc..

Although shown and described above typically as a single unit, as noted with respect to <FIG>, cooling systems incorporating multiple cooling units in accordance with the present disclosure can be employed. <FIG> illustrates a plurality of cooling units that are distinctly separate from each other. However, other arrangements of multiple cooling units are possible in accordance with the present disclosure.

For example, turning now to <FIG>, a cooling system <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cooling system <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, includes a plurality of cooling units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that can be operated to generate a cooled area <NUM>. <FIG> is a side elevation view of one of the cooling units <NUM>. The cooling units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the present embodiment include one or more bases (e.g., base <NUM> shown in <FIG>), a plurality of cooling towers 1702a, 1704a, 1706a, 1708a, and a shared or single air distribution system (e.g., air distribution system <NUM> shown in <FIG>).

Thus, in such arrangements, a number of cooling towers 1702a, 1704a, 1706a, 1708a can be arranged to supply cool, moist air to a larger air distribution system and thus generate a much larger cooled area as compared to the singular units described above. Further, in some arrangements, the cooling tower can be arranged as a cooling wall (e.g., cooling unit <NUM>), which may be an extended cooling tower that spans the air distribution system of the large cooling unit.

As described herein, individual cooling units are provided that can generate a cool air region or area around the cooling unit. In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the cooling units can be modular or separable into the different components. For example, the base, the cooling tower, and the air distribution system can all be physically separated for transportation and ease of installation. Further, such modularity enables delivering and providing cooled air in areas that typically may not be able to have cooled air.

Advantageously, embodiments provided herein can employ photovoltaic solar panels and energy storage batteries for self-sufficient power. As such, the cooling units of the present disclosure can be energy neutral or energy positive (e.g., through use of energy generation and hot water generation). Further, advantageously, the air distribution system of cooling units of the present disclosure can provide shade or shadow to the cooled area immediately around the cooling unit and, as noted above, can provide any required electrical energy to operate cooling unit.

Further, advantageously, the air management systems of cooling units described herein can provide cold saturated air streams due to heat and mass exchange between the air and the cold waterfall that is formed on the cooling tower. Further, dividing the output conditioned air can enables a cold and saturated portion of air which can be injected to a comfort zone in the vicinity of the cooling unit (e.g., from the first subchamber). Further, the air that passes through the second subchamber can provide cooling for solar panels which are installed on the exterior surface of the air distribution system. Advantageously, such cooling can increase solar panel effectiveness. Such air will become warm and dry (e.g., reheating). The two separate streams, once mixed after exiting the air distribution system, can have a temperature and humidity which provides optimized comfort for persons within the cooled air area around the cooling unit. Further, the two mixed air streams can provide an air curtain function which will create a comfortable zone for people in cooled area.

Further, cold water management functionality can be contained within the cooling unit and can include a small modular water-cooled chiller, and a cold-water pumping, spraying, and delivery system, as described above. Hot water management functionality can include a heat rejection system which will be connected to a heat evacuation network (e.g., heat rejection system). Advantageously, evacuated heat may be reused for various purposes, including sanitary hot water, or can be rejected to ambient air with a dry cooler or cooling tower that is remote from the cooling units.

Advantageously, the cooling units of the present disclosure can be powered with solar energy and be "green. " Further, advantageously, the cooling units of the present disclosure can be modular and can be easily reconfigured based on various requirements (e.g., customer requirements, geography, available space, available water supplies, etc.).

Further, advantageously, the cooling units of the present disclosure can be configured in various geometric or aesthetic designs. That is, although shown and described as an umbrella shape, in accordance with various embodiments, the cooling units can be designed in such way that it is incorporated in an aesthetic manner relative to a location in which it is installed. For example, the cooling tower and air distribution system can be shaped into the form of a palm tree, an umbrella, or other architectural form. In the example of a palm or other tree configuration, the air dispensers can be configured at the ends of "branches" or "leaves" and the subchambers can be within the "branches" or "leaves. " Thus, the above description and illustrations are not intended to be limiting.

The use of the terms "a," "an," "the," and similar references in the context of description (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 specifically contradicted by context. The modifier "about" used in connection with a quantity is inclusive of the stated value and has the meaning dictated by the context (e.g., it includes the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity). All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other.

While the present disclosure has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such disclosed embodiments, but by the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the present disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, sub-combinations, or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the scope of the appended claims. Additionally, while various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the present disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments, within the scope of the appended claims.

Claim 1:
A cooling unit (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having a housing (<NUM>) with control components (<NUM>) installed therein;
a cooling tower (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) attached to the base at a first end (<NUM>) of the cooling tower, the cooling tower having an inner flow path (<NUM>) and an exterior surface (<NUM>); and
an air distribution system (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) attached to the cooling tower at a second end (<NUM>) of the cooling tower, the air distribution system including:
a first enclosure (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a second enclosure (<NUM>, <NUM>) defining an air distribution chamber (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) between the first and second enclosures;
a cool air dispenser (<NUM>) configured in the first enclosure;
a warm air dispenser (<NUM>) configured in the first enclosure at a location different from the cool air dispenser; and
a cover disposed on an exterior surface of the second enclosure,
wherein the control components (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are configured to convey air through the base, the cooling tower, and the air distribution system to dispense air through the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser; and
a cooling unit water supply (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) arranged to cool air within the cooling unit;
characterized in that the cooling unit further comprises an air cooled chiller (<NUM>) mounted on top of the air distribution system, wherein water from the cooling unit water supply is conveyed to the air cooled chiller to provide cooling to the water,
and further characterized by a plurality of ducts (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) connecting the cooling tower to at least one of the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser, wherein the plurality of ducts are connected to a diffuser chamber (<NUM>, <NUM>) that encompasses the cool air dispenser and the warm air dispenser.