Automation

The number one priority and purpose of Airvent is to provide thoughtfully designed, integrated hardware and software system solutions, that automatically provide a healthy, energy saving and pleasant indoor climate.

Synergy

For an efficient and demand-based operation of any ventilation system, an automated control solution is required with clear optimizing functions, in order to adapt to the constantly changing indoor and outdoor conditions. The electrical and mechanical engineers have significant responsibilities on each end. A well-designed control system, with a poorly designed air-conditioning and ventilation system cannot work effectively together. Conversely, a significant amount of untapped potential is left in a well-design and balanced ventilation system, if the control system design is fragmented.

The whole should be greater, than the sum of its parts

Today, most new buildings are designed to reach the highest energy rating levels possible, that ought to guarantee both economical operation and a comfortable, well ventilated facility throughout the year for decades to come. This is only achievable, if we can create automated control solutions that improves the overall functionality and capabilities of our ventilation and air-conditioning products. In order to reach the full underlying potential, we have to think in terms of systems. Systems that are able to flexibly adapt to any requirements and obstacles we might encounter in a design process. Systems with a sole objective to deliver a perfect indoor climate, at the right place, and at the right time.

Adaptivity

In order to reach a sustainable, energy efficient and pleasant indoor environment, it is very important to constantly analyze and adapt our ventilation system to the constantly changing internal and outdoor conditions. Even though air-conditioning and ventilation systems are usually designed for the maximum annual requirements that may occur, the frequency curve shows that the actual day to day occupation rate in many of today’s buildings is almost insignificant in proportion to the designed values. With our automation solutions, we are able to respond and adapt to these requirements.

1. Time 7:50; Room unoccupied

By-pass damper position: Closed; Air pressure: 60 Pa; Outdoor temperature: 22 °C; Airflow: 4.5 l/s

2. Time 8:05; Room occupied

By-pass damper position: Opened; Air pressure: 60 Pa; Outdoor temperature: 23 °C; Airflow: 22 l/s

3. Time 12:00; Room occupied

By-pass damper position: Opened; Air pressure: 95 Pa; Outdoor temperature: 30 °C; Airflow: 27,5 l/s

Our solution

We set out to create a simple, cost-effective and flexible optimizing solution that is applicable to any of our ventilation or air-conditioning systems. In order to generate the greatest energy savings in a building, while ensuring an unparallel level of indoor comfort, constantly tracking and adapting to the internal and external conditions is essential.

A completely integrated demand-controlled ventilation solution

A+ is a ventilation management system solution designed and produced by Airvent. The system architecture is able to cover the entire air-conditioning and ventilation control network and is based on the consistent presence of three main components: the local control units (ControlAir), an optimizing management software (SUM), and a communications network (QuickNet) that connects each element. What are the benefits with integrating our A+ solution to the ventilation and air-conditiong systems?

Health

A properly designed, energy efficient ventilation system consistently provides a silent and pleasant indoor climate, that improves our everyday life.

Efficiency

As a result of the efficient and automatic demand-controlled energy management, the savings are immediate.

Visuality

Through the SUM web interface the operators are able to visually track all operations, settings, alarms, and many other functions within the complete HVAC system.

Flexibility

Responsive and modular system solution that is simple to design, install, commission and operate.

Responsibility

It is important to emphasize that we offer an integrated package solution, as well as functional responsibility for the complete system.

Simplicity

The pre-programmed SUM software modules all have very clear and specific optimizing functions, which makes the design and operation of the system simple and transparent.

Longevity

Balanced systems designed in harmony lasts longer, and requires minimal servicing.

System architecture

The system consists of three main components: ControlAir, QuickNet, and SUM.

ControlAir – Local Controller

Efficiently securing all internal operations

Today, as commonly seen in other industries, we see a clear trend that integrated automation solutions are becoming a natural part of air-conditioning and ventilation products. As a result of this, we developed ControlAir, a local controller designed specifically for our system products, such as air handling units, chilled beams and zone airflow controllers. Every individual room and zone in a building has its own real-time ventilation and cooling/heating demand. ControlAir's sole task is to quickly serve the constantly changing demand in these locations.

ControlAir features

Plug and play

By connecting ControlAir through the QuickNet network to the SUM PC, it allows the system operators to easily monitor the individual room and zone conditions.

Integrated efficiency

Through the integrated regulators whose main function is to control heating, cooling and airflow in sequence, the system gets optimized in an energy efficient way.

Reliability

The ControlAir controller was created with a precise and reliable PCB architecture, designed to be long-lasting and efficient.

Comprehensive control

Available with built-in temperature, CO₂ and motion sensors. ControlAir controls the primary air supply, cooling and heating with condensation protection, window contact and QuickNet network connection.

Compatibility

Developed specifically for our chilled beams and traditional or induction VAV units, shipped assembled and pre-configured to simplify the installation and coordination on the building site.

Guarantee

5 year system and functional warranty, when commissioned by Airvent or one of our trained professional partners.

ControlAir for VIT induction VAV units

Fresh air supply control (modulating) with integrated by-pass duct and damper system; Built in CO₂ and temperature sensor for local climate control; Heating valve control, based on the local room temperature; Window contact; Light control, both for integrated and external light fixtures; Connected to either integrated and/or external motion detectors.

ControlAir for BASiQ air volume controller

Designed for constant airflow control in the duct system; Damper actuator control with position indication for central pressure optimization; Built in temperature sensor; Built in CO₂ sensor option for local air quality control; Heating valve control, based on the local room temperature; Window contact; External light control; Can be connected to external motion detectors.

ControlAir for active chilled beam systems

Cooling and heating valve control, based on the local room temperature. In cooling mode, the factory fitted condensation sensor provides the necessary condensation protection; Fresh air supply control (on/off - presence/absence); Window contact; Light control, both for integrated and external light fixtures; Connected to either integrated and/or external motion detectors.

SUM – Optimizer

Complete control, in relation to the indoor and outdoor condition

The largest part of the energy savings can only be accomplished with an automatic, coherent and precise demand-controlled operation. In order to amplify the functionality of ControlAir and our other system products, we developed our own system management software – a ventilation management central – to maximize energy savings, while providing a comprehensive visual and operational overview of the complete HVAC system.

SUM – Supreme Management

SUM is a plug & play industrial server, supplied preprogrammed with the optimising software modules. By being connected to the Web, SUM can be accessed from distant locations over multiple platforms. Our objective behind the innovations of SUM, is to have a complete and transparent overview and control of the indoor climate. With the SUM Web App, the operator is able to fine-tune all ventilation settings for each room, zone or floor plan in the building, which then automatically controls the indoor climate accordingly. SUM integrates all ControlAir system control components with a clean and friendly user interface (UI). The building floor plan based UI provides a simple-to-use control for the system operator. SUM logs all operation parameters of the system, which can be displayed with an elegant chart interface, past and present. This web-based supervision for the indoor ventilation eliminates the need of on-site integration of the ventilation and control system.

SUM features

Optimization

SUM is a web-based control and optimization solution for demand-controlled indoor climate systems, created to control chilled beams and VAV systems.

Modules

SUM software is built up by flexible modules, that have all been designed with specific, clear and reliable optimization functions.

Flexibility

Due to its simple set-up, advanced and bespoke customer-specific functions can be added, in order to customize the energy optimization requirements for each project.

Complete overview

The SUM Web App provides a comprehensive overview of all connected rooms and devices, and integrates all ControlAir units in the building.

User friendly interface

Through the clean and user friendly interface, the SUM Web App provides visual feedback of the entire ventilation system.

Easy setting

All operating functions can be accessed through the SUM Web App, where operators can optimize and fine-tune the individual room climate and the energy consumption.

SUM – Modules

For optimization, comfort and control.

Modules - standard control functions

The SUM Web App is shaped by preprogrammed software, with optimizing and control functions, which we call modules. These modules offer a clear, straightforward and reliable operation and overview of the complete system. SUM modules are compartmentalized into different classes, depending on each individual task. The quantity of the selected modules depends upon the dimension of the ventilation system. The list of these standard functions can also act as a precise description of the ventilation system.

SPC - System Pressure Control

The central air handling units have to provide sufficient system pressure in order for the VAV-BASiQ zone controllers to function properly. The pressure set-point is provided by the SPC module. The system pressure set-point is adjusted to have at least one zone VAV-BASiQ damper almost completely opened. Because the system pressure is always set and adjusted according to the real-time demand of the divided zones, a significant amount of power consumption can be saved, compared to traditional constant pressure controlled air supply. The intensity of the ventilation in the building is based primarily on the outdoor temperature and conditions. The base ventilation is constantly provided at the set minimum level. The system pressure then varies based on the external temperatures, and set pressure curve.

ZPC - Zone Pressure Control

Each zone is constant pressure controlled. The actual zone pressure set-point is outdoor temperature dependent, calculated by the ZPC module, calculating the intensity of the ventilation. The calculated zone pressure set-point is sent to the zone VAV BASiQ supply air damper to set up the correct zone pressure. The maximum performance of the air handling units is only needed during the warmest summer days of the year.

PRIMA - Primary Air Temperature Control

The primary air temperature is controlled through the PRIMA module. Like the ZPC module, PRIMA is also in direct relation with the external temperature. The air handling unit provides preheated air during winter, and precooled air during summer.

CWC - Chilled Water Control

The chilled water temperature for the chilled beams is controlled by the CWC module. The primary chilled water temperature set-point is outdoor temperature dependent. To avoid condensation, the dew point sets the minimum limit for the water temperature set-point. The calculated temperature set-point is sent to the chiller circuit via Modbus or set with analogue signals from an attached ControlAir IO unit.

DRIFT - Automatic Set-point Adjuster

If the indoor and outdoor temperature difference is too high, a person entering an air-conditioned location can feel a heat-shock. With DRIFT, we have created a safe way to ensure the maximum thermal comfort and prevent heat-shock, when leaving or entering the air-conditioned environment. The DRIFT module provides automatic set-point adjustment during summer extremes. The indoor temperature set-point is increased with small steps automatically as the outdoor temperatures rises above a certain level. The collected heat amount is taken away with nighttime cooling or free cooling of the building, to allow for a more economical operation of the chillers.

WAVe - When Away Ventilation

The WAVe module provides an automatic start-stop function of the AHU in absence and presence mode. The air handling unit can be regulated without setting time and date management for on/off operations. This can be set according to the individual demands of the building. In absence mode, the WAVe module provides base ventilation with a short and cyclical start/stop function. With the integrated motion sensors of the ControlAir, SUM automatically senses if a certain part of the zone or location is being occupied, and automatically adjusts the ventilation accordingly.

QuickNet

Network

QuickNet was specifically designed and created to ensure fast and secure connection with all system components, such as SUM and the ControlAir units. Based on wired RS485, the QuickNet language offers us the easiest way to communicate within the system. The most simple QuickNet network can connect up to 254 ControlAir units in one wired loop. With the Switch, multiple loops can be created.

First floor

Second floor

Switch

SUM PC

QuickNet features

Fast and secure

Fast and secure communication network designed for ControlAir local control units.

Simple

Simple line network configuration, where QuickNet connects one ControlAir local control unit to the next in line.

All in a loop

254 pieces of ControlAir units can be connected per line. An average building floor equals with one QuickNet line.

Expandable

One Switch can cover six levels in a multistoried building. By interconnecting each Switch unit, the number of floors is not an issue for QuickNet.

Connected

No network settings are required, only the installation and connection of the bus line.

Who did we create the Airvent A+ system for?

Property owner

Profits for the property owner, due to efficient real time demand-controlled operation
Reduced space requirement for the duct system and air handling units, saves investment costs
Increased convenience, comfort and performance for the user
Facilitates rental and rental income, which increases the property value
Automatic operation
Guarantee

Consultant engineers

Reduced environmental impact and lower energy costs through lower power consumption
Our solution offers clear and specific functions, that facilitates the system design.
One supplier, one responsibility.
Open communication both centrally and at the room level
Flexible and adaptable system. Several beneficial climate optimisation solutions to choose from, depending on the requirements

Installers and operators

Cost effective system solutions
Effective plug&play installation and commissioning saves time and money for new and/or refurbished buildings.
User friendly and comprehensive monitoring of the indoor climate and the modification of set-points
Proprietary software facilitates support and customizations
Display of actual values for monitoring the climate and the basis for adjustment, inspection, operation and maintenance

FAQ

Building management system?

We would rather call it a ventilation and climate management central. Imagine an air handling unit controller - but larger - which includes the controlling of the complete ventilation system.

I do not need management systems. The room regulators can operate standalone.

This is of course a legitimate perspective. We focused on the maximum efficiency, while maintaining the ease of operation and the best indoor air quality possible. Let us not forget, the highest energy savings can only be achieved through clever, precise and demand controlled operations. The air handling unit and local room controllers are not able to do these type of energy efficient operations by themselves.

Management system can be too complicated, often causing unnecessary problems.

The SUM management system is built up by modules. The operation of the pre-programmed and pre-configured modules are transparent and easy to understand. The clean design of the web-based management interface was developed specifically with the user in mind.

Why do I need a zone pressure controlled system?

In our view the pressure control is the key for the highest efficiency in operation. A demand controlled system needs to have constant pressure control. The ventilation intensity depends on the outdoor conditions, but provides ground ventilation at all time. The maximum capacity of the ventilation system is actually only used during the warmest days of the year.

Can SUM be connected to a traditional Building Management System?

Yes, Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP/IP protocols are available, if requested.

How much does a data point cost?

The SUM management system is not measured by data points. The cost is determined primarily by the dimension of the system and by the number and type of selected SUM modules. Our system is very understandable, which makes it easy to set-up the budget plan for the controlling.

Can the cooling and heating systems also be controlled?

Yes, SUM includes a module, which is able to control the circulation pumps of the cooling and heating systems.

I have a multi-story building. Which user interface should I order?

SUM provides a comprehensive layout view for each floor in the building, as well as a room list. The rooms and layouts can be displayed according to the numbers of floors.

What is required for the system to operate?

230VAC socket in the server room. All elements of SUM is pre-programmed at Airvent. After the on-site installation the system operates immediately.

What happens if a fault occurs?

SUM as a system optimiser is not operation critical of the system. Without the operations of SUM, the products and local regulators will continue to run according to the last valid settings.

Can the users ”shut” down the system?

Different user levels ensure safe operation.

A+ System elements

BASiQ

DUO

ZPM

SUM PC

Switch

QuickNet

ControlAir

Light relay box

References

In the reference buildings below Airvent's A+ system provides the right indoor climate.

Family Hotel

In the 65 rooms of the Family Hotel Balástya, HotelAir chilled beams provide clean air and a comfortable temperature all time. In addition, we installed VIT induction units in 7 zones of the Hotel. The system is fully controlled and regulated by our own control system that can adapt to changes in internal and external air conditions and accordingly automatically adjusts ventilation intensity and temperatures along with many other parameters.

Airrail Center Frankfurt

In 2010 we supplied 590 units of a specially designed passive chilled beam, the PassiveAir to the 660 m long Frankfurt Airrail Center, also known as "Squaire", housing both the train station, a shopping center and office complex.