Tubular-shaped and modular air handling unit (ahu) for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (hvac) systems

Abstract

A tubular-shaped and modular air handling unit (AHU) for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is disclosed. In some embodiments, a modular AHU is disclosed that may include a coil module, a fan module, and an electrical module; each of which may be tubular shaped for easily coupling one to another and easily coupling to tubular-shaped (or round or circular) ductwork. Further, in the tubular-shaped and modular AHU, each module may be independent and stand alone, thereby allowing for relatively easy upgrading, replacement, and/or servicing.

That which is claimed: 
     
         1 . An air handling system comprising a coil module, a fan module, and an electronics module, wherein the coil module, fan module, and electronics module are each configured to be independently installed or removed from the system. 
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the fan module comprises a fan that causes air to flow through the system. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the electronics module is installed within the fan module or the coil module. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the coil module further comprises an evaporator coil arranged substantially adjacent an outer wall of the coil module and capable of conditioning air flowing through the coil module. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the coil module and fan module are substantially tubular in shape, and further wherein the coil module and fan module have a first diameter. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 5  wherein the first diameter is substantially equal to a diameter of duct work connected to the system. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 5  wherein the electronics module has a substantially tubular shape comprising substantially the first diameter, and further wherein the electronics module is configured to be installed adjacent the fan module. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 5 , wherein the coil module comprises a composite material. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 5 , wherein the coil module comprises an inner surface, and the inner surface comprises a water-resistant coating. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 9 , wherein the water-resistant coating is a rubberized coating. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 9 , wherein the water-resistant coating is a composite material. 
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 5  further comprising one or more drains. 
     
     
         13 . The system of  claim 12 , wherein the one or more drains may be selectively opened depending on an orientation of installation. 
     
     
         14 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to be selectively installed both horizontally and vertically. 
     
     
         15 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to be selectively installed in any orientation between horizontal and vertical.