Synthetic jet actuators, a common actuator for flow control applications, were used to control particle dispersion in a closed chamber. The presented results demonstrate the application of this technique for controlling indoor air quality in confined spaces. This technique was demonstrated in a dedicated 0.23m3 closed chamber that included a simulated ventilation system. The flow field in the room was determined using particle image velocimetry (PIV). Arrays of synthetic jets located on either side of an aerosol inlet (intake) provided the flow control. The effectiveness of the synthetic jet-based flow control was demonstrated for controlling airflow and aerosol dispersion and removal in the closed chamber. The use of such devices in smart buildings is expected to improve indoor air quality while minimizing the energy burden on heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Building and Environment, Volume 45, Issue 1, p. 165-175, January 2010.