Ideas for improving the installation and use of air conditioners are increasing due to the impact of heat waves. A project carried out by a former NASA engineer seeks to neutralize humidity in homes.
The project. Helix Micra, a technology developed by Rawand Rasheed, a former NASA engineer, consists of a dehumidification system for air conditioners. This design is more compact than other more conventional air conditioners and the filters can be manufactured using 3D printing.
What are the differences with traditional air conditioning? In regions where humidity is a problem with heat waves, finding more efficient solutions is a priority. Air conditioners consume large amounts of energy and do not reduce humidity, so the heat in the environment returns quickly once the system is turned off. The prototype designed by the former NASA engineer allows humidity to be reduced, so there will be less use of air conditioning and significant energy savings.
Is this the only project? Advances in the optimization of air conditioning are a topic that continues to be studied. Firstly, we find solar air conditioners, such as SolarCool, which use solar energy to reduce electricity consumption. Along the same lines, geothermal air conditioning systems take advantage of the temperature of the subsoil to cool homes. Thirdly, we find the use of AI and IoT to program an air conditioning system, taking into account the different factors external to the home.
Is there anyone who uses filters? Several companies are using advanced filters to improve efficiency and air quality. On the one hand, there are quadruple filters to eliminate allergens and improve air quality. On the other hand, there are easy-to-clean filters that optimize energy efficiency.
Just for cooling? Among the cooling systems is aerothermal energy, known for using its energy to heat homes. This system allows the thermal energy of the air to be used to produce both air conditioning and hot water.
Why is the new project more relevant? Although it is not the only company dedicated to dehumidification and energy consumption reduction, it has attracted attention due to its space origin and its ability to adapt to existing systems. In addition, Helix Earth Technologies has received funding from institutions such as the US Department of Energy (DOE) and even NASA. It was recently selected as a finalist in the Urban Future Prize 2024 competition.
Image | HVAC and Pixabay
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