Indoor Environmental Monitoring
Trinity Automated Solutions provides intelligent input to building ventilation systems for energy efficiency and high quality indoor environmental quality through Aircuity's patented system. The system takes samples of air remotely throughout a facility and routes them to a centralized suite of sensors. By measuring critical indoor environmental parameters, it can provide Unique Architecture: Capture, Sense, and Control
Aircuity can capture air samples from specific rooms or from air supply ducts, and it routes these air samples to a centralized suite of sensors in a manner similar to how data packets are routed through a data network. Utilizing a single set of high quality sensors increases the accuracy of the measurements needed and significantly lowers the life cycle costs of maintaining system calibration. The sensor analysis is then used to inform building ventilation controls to optimize ventilation rates based on what is actually going on in the environment.
Solving the Issues of Remote Sensors
Our use of Aircuity’s centralized sensors solves many of the issues related to traditional sensing systems. By analyzing air samples with a single sensor a true differential measurement is created that vastly improves the accuracy of the system. Through the significantly reduced number of sensors needed, higher quality sensors can be deployed to measure more critical parameters. Life cycle costs are also reduced as an Aircuity system can cost-effectively provide scheduled calibration service, ensuring system accuracy and effectiveness year after year.
How Healthy is Your Building?
As an authorized systems integrator of Aircuity's system, we can design an indoor air quality system that continuously collects an array of building indoor environmental data. Air samples are gathered from individual spaces and at the air handler level and routed through the network to the Sensor Suite for analysis. The sampled data is then transmitted to the web based platform for archiving and reporting. Additionally, the data is communicated to the facility's Building Management System for control of the facility's ventilation systems to reduce energy costs while improving indoor environmental quality.
Products & Models
The Sensor Suite (SST) is built on a scalable architecture to accept a variety of sensors for multipoint sampling of a host of indoor environmental parameters. The sensor suite affords distributed, multiplexed based sensing of the monitored areas by automating the collection of real time, area specific data received from Air Data Routers. A shared sensor platform minimizes calibration and maintenance costs while maximizing potential energy savings.
Features:
- Multi-parameter sensing.
- Exceptional accuracy and repeatability for single-ended and reference-based measurements.
- Calibration and maintenance of sensors is automatically and routinely scheduled through Aircuity’s Calibration Laboratory and Assurance Services program.
- Adaptable and scalable to grow with a facility.
- Alternating Limb™ sampling functionality.
Located within a Sensor Suite, Sensor Suite Sensors (SEN) evaluate an array of environmental conditions using a shared sensor architecture. Each sensor is designed for optimal performance based upon a specific control or monitoring application. A range of sensors are available to measure: -carbon dioxide (CO2) -carbon monoxide (CO) -dewpoint temperature -total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) -airborne particulates.
Features:
- Sensor Suite Sensors are tailored to match specific monitoring and control needs
- Calibration and maintenance of sensors is automatically and routinely scheduled through Aircuity’s Calibration Laboratory and Sensor Assurance program.
- Flexible architecture for future sensor enhancements and technology updates.
The Information Management System (IMS) runs the IMS service that sequences the Air Data Routers (ADR) to route the air packets from individual test areas to the Sensor Suite (SST) where it is sampled and measurements recorded. Data from the ADR and SST is uploaded to the IMS. With a BACnet® interface, the IMS also serves as the integration hub for data from the Building Automation System (BAS) and any independent ventilation control system.
Features:
- Small form factor
- Fanless embedded system
- Intel® based processor, solid-state drive
- All power, port and network connections neatly organized
- Integral wall mounting bracket
- All necessary software pre-installed
The OSC Structured Cable is the communications backbone for the Aircuity system. The Structured Cable is a composite of both traditional LAN based technologies, and a cutting edge air sampling medium called MicroDuct®. The OSC provides low voltage power throughout the system, is a pathway for network data communications and transports air sample packets through its hollow inner core. This inner core, known as MicroDuct, is a technology breakthrough composed of a fluoropolymer resin and carbon nanotube blend. This patented design ensures that particle transport is unrestricted and air samples remain pure and uncorrupted.
Features:
- Carbon nanotube and fluoropolymer blend provides superior particle transport and chemical purity of the air sample.
- A single OSC houses network communications, low voltage power and area-level discrete and virtual sensing.
- No special tools or installation techniques are required. Similar to typical voice, data, and telecommunications network cables.
- Two versions are available, Plenum and Riser rated for new and existing construction.
The OT Tubing (OT) provides a cost-effective solution for environments where carbon dioxide (CO2) and/or carbon monoxide (CO) levels are being monitored. This Tubing is dimensionally stable to allow for reliable use of push-to-connect fittings and is plenum rated and can be installed in accordance with NFPA, Standard 90A. OT100 is suitable for use between the Air Data Router (ADR) and the location from where the sample is being taken. It is not suitable for use as an alternative to OSC Structured Cable (OSC100) between the Sensor Suite and ADRs. The characteristics of the OT Tubing make it inappropriate for accurately measuring dewpoint, TVOC and particle levels.
Features:
- Plenum rated for new and existing construction.
- Flexible, lightweight and rugged.
- Green stripes for easy identification.
- Easy to install.
- No special tools or installation techniques are required.
- Dimensionally stable to support reliable connections via push-to-connect fittings.
- Printed with running length markings required for installation.
The Room Probe (RS) interfaces to the Air Data Router (ADR) for discrete room level sensing of temperature (OSC100 Structured Cable only for applications requiring temperature), and for drawing air samples back to the Sensor Suite (SST) through the OSC100 with its patented MicroDuct® contained within the Structured Cable. Depending on the configuration of the SST, many additional environmental parameters can be monitored “virtually” such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), dewpoint temperature, relative humidity (RH), small particles, and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs). The RS is designed with an architecturally pleasing semi-flush mounted cover that can be optionally painted to match the interior room finishes. The RS also supports connections to OT100 Tubing used in applications involving only CO2 and/or CO measurement as the virtual parameter.
Features:
- Semi-flush mounted cover with custom painting options.
- In-line stainless steel coarse filter.
- RTD sensing elements.
- Compatible with OSC100 and OT100 air sampling mediums
The Duct Probe (DPB) interfaces to the Air Data Router (ADR) for discrete room level sensing of temperature (OSC100 Structured Cable only for applications requiring temperature), and for drawing air samples back to the Sensor Suite (SST) through the OSC100 with its patented MicroDuct® contained within the Structured Cable. Depending on the configuration of the Sensor Suite, many additional environmental parameters can be monitored “virtually” such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), dewpoint temperature, relative humidity (RH), small particles, and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs). With the use of OT-E11 enlarger fittings, the DPB also supports connections to OT100 Tubing used in applications involving only CO2 and/or CO measurement as the virtual parameter. The probes can be mounted directly on a duct or in outdoor environments.
Features:
- Duct or facade mounted assembly for sensing both discrete and virtual conditions.
- In-line stainless steel coarse filter.
- RTD sensing elements.
- Compatible with OSC100 and OT100 air sampling mediums.
The Air Data Router (ADR) provides the means of routing air sample packets and temperature data from the desired test location back to the Sensor Suite (SST) for measurement. The SST and associated ADRs are connected via a backbone consisting of OSC Structured Cable (OSC). The ADR and its four individual test area locations can be connected via OSC, OT Tubing, or MicroDuct® depending on the application. Refer to the individual product data sheets OSC100, OT100, & MD100 for more information. Optional hardwired expansion modules allow for monitoring, signaling, and data collection of located HVAC equipment.
Features:
- Up to 4 individual test areas can be monitored from each Air Data Router.
- Interfaces to a combination of discrete physical sensors & remote virtual sensors.
- Flexible input/output expansion capability for additional monitoring and interfacing to a BMS.
- Communicates via the Aircuity network connection to the SST.
The HFP series High Flow Vacuum Pump provides a continuous vacuum through the OSC Structured Cable communications backbone, and is provided with a bracket assembly, backup redundancy, and status notifications. The pump connects to the Sensor Suite (SST), which sequences air samples from the Air Data Routers (ADRs). Multiple areas can be monitored from the ADRs, and the routers can be networked as part of a larger distributed system.
Features:
- Oilless operation/Permanently lubricated bearings
- Long-life operation
- Balanced for smooth, low vibration operation
- Redundancy and other failsafe measures
Includes:
- Bracket assembly for easy installation.
- Backup pump and pump control module redundancy and fault signaling features.
- 100" of 1/2" OD - 3/8" ID black polyethylene flame retardant tubing. Meets UL94V2 and UL1820.
- Quick connect tubing fittings for easy installation.
- Check-valve assembly to support the backup pump configuration.
- Muffler assembly.
- Vibration arresting rubber feet.
- Electrical cord and plug.
Options:
- 115 Vac/220 Vac options.
- Twin cylinder rocking piston pump versions for international voltag
The Aircuity's system that we provide delivers smart, airside performance solutions that make commercial buildings more energy efficient without sacrificing occupant safety, comfort or productivity. Our centralized suite of sensors can be configured for a wide range of applications across many different types of buildings.
Demand Control Ventilation
An Aircuity system is the superior solution for demand control ventilation (DCV) applications. Our centralized suite of sensors reduces the total number of CO2 sensors required, significantly reducing life cycle costs while improving system accuracy and energy efficiency. In addition to CO2 sensing, the system can measure particulates and TVOC’s to control ventilation based on overall IEQ—providing a unique “Healthy DCV” solution.
Laboratory DCV
Laboratory environments consume significant amounts of energy, typically exchanging air at 8-10 times an hour with 100% outside air. Utilizing the Aircuity system, critical environment areas can be continuously monitored for CO2, TVOC’s, and particulates and ventilation rates can be adjusted according to actual needs of the environment. This approach addresses both safety and energy efficiency by providing more ventilation when needed, while saving significant energy when the air is clean. Aircuity’s lab DCV solution has a typical ROI of 2 years or less!
Exhaust Fan Application
Often exhaust systems account for more than 20% of a laboratory facility’s HVAC energy costs. High exhaust fan velocities are commonly maintained in excess of the levels necessary for all but extreme conditions, resulting in wasted energy. Laboratory facilities can achieve substantial savings through implementing demand based control of exhaust fans. The Aircuity system monitors contaminants within the exhaust plenum and compares the measurements against predetermined thresholds. If these levels are exceeded, the fan system is triggered, providing a higher stack velocity. During times when the exhaust stream is determined to be clean, stack velocity is reduced to a predetermined value that yields a lower dilution level, but at a value that is sufficient for the majority of the chemicals used in the building.
Aircuity provides the capability to graph exhaust fan TVOC’s and high/low fan speeds, which enables building owners to monitor fan power and compare kilowatt hours used. The demand based control of a lab facility’s exhaust fan is an important complement to Aircuity’s lab DCV solution. Combining both applications results in a comprehensive energy reduction while providing a healthy and safe environment for occupants.
Economizer Control
The unique, patented architecture of the Aircuity system allows for significantly improved economizer control. While other sensors must be exposed to outside elements in order to measure outside air and humidity levels, Aircuity’s solution brings the outside air to sensors centrally located indoors. This allows us to utilize higher quality relative humidity sensors that can be routinely calibrated for superior performance.
LEED® / EPA Certification
Building owners that wish to certify their buildings under LEED or EPA guidelines will discover that the Aircuity solution can provide energy efficiency points, IEQ points, and innovation points.
Air Monitoring
Aircuity’s system can be configured to accurately measure and report on a number of critical indoor environmental parameters. For facility managers that need to verify tightly controlled environments (humidity levels, particulate levels, etc.), it is the solution to deploy!
