Modern HVAC systems face increasing demands for pathogen control, with studies showing that airborne particles containing viable microorganisms can remain suspended for hours and travel distances exceeding 30 meters through ventilation systems. Traditional filtration methods achieve varying degrees of success, with MERV 13-16 filters capturing 50-95% of particles in the critical 0.3-1.0 micron range where many pathogens reside.

The fundamental challenge lies in balancing enhanced pathogen capture efficiency against system pressure drops and energy consumption while maintaining required air exchange rates for occupant comfort.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including multi-stage purification systems with adaptive control mechanisms, zone-specific monitoring with selective sterilization, real-time pathogen detection networks, and computational fluid dynamics modeling for risk assessment. These and other approaches focus on practical implementation strategies that building operators can use to achieve both safety requirements and operational efficiency.

1. Air Conditioning System with Multi-Stage Purification and Dual-Cavity Ventilation Structure

JIANGSU PROVINCIAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & RESEARCH INSTITUTE LTD, 江苏省建筑设计研究院股份有限公司, 2025

A full air conditioning system for preventing airborne transmission of microorganisms through a multi-stage purification process. The system comprises an air conditioning unit with an air duct system, where the air duct system includes an air supply pipe for delivering conditioned air to a room, an air return pipe for discharging room air, and a fresh air pipe for delivering outdoor fresh air to the air conditioning unit. The air conditioning unit has a casing with a ventilation cavity divided into a first cavity and a second cavity by a partition. The system incorporates sequential purification components, including a purification component, a heat exchange component, and a fan component, arranged in the first cavity along the airflow direction. The fan component drives airflow through the first purification component and heat exchange component, then enters the second cavity through the purification component and heat exchange component in sequence.

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2. HVAC System with Real-Time IAQ Monitoring and Adaptive Control Mechanism

TYCO FIRE & SECURITY GMBH, 2024

Building HVAC system that automatically monitors and controls indoor air quality (IAQ) while maintaining building standards. The system uses real-time environmental data and performance metrics to determine the required clean air delivery rate, while continuously monitoring and adapting to changing conditions. It calculates the actual IAQ performance of the HVAC system and compares it to the required standards, providing an infection risk score. The system then implements interventions to maintain the required IAQ standards, automatically adjusting parameters and monitoring performance as needed.

3. Quarantine Air-Conditioning System with Integrated Pathogen-Specific Indoor Air Quality Analysis and Risk Prediction

KOREA INSTITUTE MATERIALS SCIENCE, 2024

A quarantine air-conditioning system for preventing airborne infectious disease spread, which accurately predicts infection risk through pathogen-specific analysis of indoor air quality. The system integrates complex environmental sensors with a pathogen detection system to monitor airborne pathogens and their interaction with the indoor environment. The system's central control unit analyzes air quality data and pathogen detection results to calculate infection risk, enabling proactive measures like enhanced air purification and temperature control when necessary. This approach provides more accurate risk predictions than traditional systems by considering the unique characteristics of each airborne pathogen.

4. HVAC System with Dynamic Fresh Air Intake Control Based on Indoor Air Quality and Pathogen Risk Levels

HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC, 2024

Operating an HVAC system to provide adequate ventilation while minimizing energy usage and maintaining comfort through dynamic control of fresh air intake. The system employs an advanced control strategy that continuously monitors indoor air quality parameters and adjusts the fresh air intake damper based on pathogen transmission risk levels. When the risk exceeds predetermined thresholds, the system automatically increases the fresh air flow rate to maintain occupant health while maintaining system performance. This approach enables optimal ventilation while balancing energy efficiency with occupant comfort.

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5. Method for Simulating Airflow Dynamics and Infectious Agent Distribution Using 3D Building Models and Computational Fluid Dynamics

MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD, 2024

A method for evaluating air quality and infection risk in buildings by simulating airflow dynamics and infectious agent behavior. The method creates a detailed 3D model of a building with specific layout, ventilation rates, and population densities, then analyzes airflow patterns and infectious agent concentrations through computational fluid dynamics. By integrating these factors into a comprehensive simulation framework, the method calculates an effective transmission coefficient for each space and time, enabling quantitative risk assessments of airborne pathogens in buildings.

6. Integrated Air Conditioning System with Multi-Stage Purification and Thermal Exchange Components

JIANGSU PROVINCIAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & RESEARCH INSTITUTE LTD, 2024

A full air conditioning system that prevents airborne transmission of microorganisms through a comprehensive purification, heating, and cooling process. The system comprises an air conditioning unit with a multi-stage purification, heating, and cooling configuration. The system incorporates a dedicated air supply, return, and fresh air ducts, with each stage featuring a purification component, heat exchanger, and fan. The purification component removes airborne microorganisms, while the heat exchanger provides thermal comfort. The fan ensures efficient air distribution throughout the system. The system integrates these components in a single, self-contained unit, eliminating the need for separate purification and cooling systems.

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7. HVAC System with Integrated Sensor Network for Airborne Contaminant Localization

CARRIER CORP, 2024

A system for detecting and localizing airborne contaminants within HVAC systems and enclosed spaces. The system integrates sensors into the ducting and associated ducts, mapping their locations within the ducts and between spaces. By analyzing sensor data, the system determines the source and intensity of airborne contaminants, enabling precise location determination and targeted maintenance.

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8. HVAC System with Zone-Specific Air Quality Monitoring and Selective Sterilization Mechanism

CARRIER CORP, 2023

HVAC system that optimizes indoor air quality through selective sterilization. The system monitors air quality in multiple zones, triggering sterilization when quality exceeds established thresholds. This approach prevents system-wide contamination while maintaining optimal temperature control. The system employs a zone-by-zone approach, with selective sterilization initiated for critical areas where quality exceeds safe limits.

9. Integrated Sensor Network for Airborne Contaminant Detection and Localization in HVAC Systems

CARRIER CORP, 2023

A system for detecting and localizing airborne contaminants in HVAC systems and connected spaces through integrated monitoring of duct and indoor air flows. The system employs a network of sensors positioned at critical duct junctions, including vents and return ducts, to monitor contaminant concentrations and identify sources. By mapping sensor locations within the ducting system, the system determines the source and intensity of airborne contaminants, enabling targeted maintenance and inspection. This approach enables real-time monitoring of HVAC system air quality while providing detailed information on contaminant sources and intensity, facilitating more effective maintenance operations.

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10. System and Method for Dynamic Ventilation Control Using Real-Time Environmental Data and Predictive Pathogen Modeling

TELLIS CYRIL, 2023

Method and system for controlling airborne pathogens in indoor spaces through optimized ventilation control. The method integrates real-time particulate matter size and concentration, CO2 levels, and relative humidity to predict pathogen presence. It then dynamically controls ventilation rates based on these parameters to maintain optimal indoor air quality. The system employs predictive models that correlate real-time data with pathogen characteristics, enabling targeted ventilation strategies to prevent pathogen transmission. This approach ensures effective air filtration while minimizing energy consumption and maintaining occupant health.

11. Artificial Intelligence Platform with Machine Learning-Driven Detection and Treatment of Microorganisms Using High-Resolution Imaging and Sensor Technologies

Keith Louis DeSanto, 2022

Artificial intelligence platform for microorganism elimination through machine learning-driven detection, identification, and treatment of airborne, surface, and object-borne microorganisms. The platform employs high-resolution imaging and sensor technologies to capture and analyze microorganism behavior, while its AI algorithms learn and adapt to identify specific microorganisms and their behaviors. The platform enables rapid, accurate, and cost-effective elimination of microorganisms through targeted treatment methods, including zapping, laser treatment, and surfactant-based applications.

12. Fan Coil Unit with Integrated UV-Based Airborne Pathogen Sterilization Module

Guangzhou Jinpeng Environmental Protection Engineering Co., Ltd., GUANGZHOU JINPENG ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CO LTD, 2022

Fan coil unit and air conditioning equipment that addresses the issue of airborne pathogens in HVAC systems. The unit incorporates a sterilization module with a UV-based inactivation system that removes airborne pathogens from the air stream. The sterilization module is connected to the return air duct and the supply air duct, with a dedicated condenser for water collection. The UV system uses ultraviolet light to inactivate bacteria and viruses in the water, providing a comprehensive solution for maintaining indoor air quality.

13. Multi-Stage Filtration and Treatment HVAC System with Anti-Pathogen Filter and Treatment Dispenser for Transit Vehicles

THERMO KING CORP, 2022

HVAC system for transit vehicles that incorporates advanced air purification and sanitization through multiple stages of filtration and treatment. The system comprises a pre-filter, a filter with anti-pathogen material, and a treatment dispenser located between the return air duct and the filter. The pre-filter captures airborne contaminants before they reach the filter, while the filter itself incorporates an anti-pathogen material to remove airborne pathogens. The treatment dispenser provides additional sanitizing agents, including air fresheners, deodorants, and cleaners, to the filtered air before it reaches the heat exchanger. This multi-stage approach ensures comprehensive protection against airborne pathogens while maintaining system efficiency.

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14. Integrated Air Quality Monitoring and Control System with Predictive Modeling for Biological Pollutant Management

TRANE INT INC, 2022

System and method for monitoring and controlling biological pollutant levels in buildings through predictive modeling of indoor air quality. The system integrates air quality sensors with a controller that manages remediation devices, enabling automated pathogen remediation based on air quality trends. The predictive model estimates biological pollutant levels from air quality data, enabling targeted remediation actions to maintain clean indoor air quality.

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15. Building HVAC System with Integrated Disinfection Control Utilizing Dynamic Temperature and Contagion Quantum Models

JOHNSON CONTROLS TYCO INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HOLDINGS LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP, 2022

Building HVAC system with integrated disinfection control that optimizes both air quality and occupant comfort. The system employs dynamic temperature models and contagion quantum models to generate optimal disinfection strategies, while incorporating airside HVAC equipment design parameters. The system's control decisions are based on real-time environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and particle concentrations, to achieve the desired level of disinfection while maintaining occupant comfort.

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16. Airborne Pathogen Detection and Neutralization System with Biosensor Array and Targeted UV Laser Exposure

HEALTHCARE INTEGRATED TECH INC, 2022

System for detecting and neutralizing airborne pathogens through a combination of air sampling and targeted UV light exposure. The system employs a biosensor array to monitor airborne pathogens, followed by a UV laser treatment that selectively targets and disrupts specific pathogen types. The system's architecture enables continuous monitoring of airborne pathogens while maintaining a stable environment through targeted UV exposure. This approach enables rapid detection and neutralization of airborne pathogens, including viruses like influenza and Covid-19, through precise control of UV light frequencies.

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17. System with Sensing Modules and AI-Controlled Mitigation Modules for Airborne Contamination Reduction in Indoor Environments

ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2022

System and method for mitigating airborne contamination in conditioned indoor environments by selectively activating mitigation modules based on real-time sensing data. The system comprises multiple sensing modules configured to detect presence and concentration of particles and aerosols at different locations. A control module employing an artificial intelligence algorithm configured to selectively activate at least one mitigation module based on utilization of machine learning programmed rules and output signals from one or more sensing modules. The at least one mitigation module is configured to take one or more actions to reduce presence and concentration of particles and aerosols in the conditioned indoor environment.

18. HVACR System with Dynamic Occupant Modeling and Real-Time Video-Based Airflow Simulation

TRANE INT INC, 2022

HVACR systems and methods for optimizing indoor air quality through dynamic people modeling and real-time analytics. The system captures video data of occupants' behaviors and characteristics, analyzes their patterns to simulate airflow dynamics, and controls HVAC operations based on these simulated conditions. This approach enables precise control of ventilation rates, temperature, and air cleaning effectiveness to mitigate airborne pathogens, while dynamically adjusting parameters based on real-time occupant behavior.

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19. HVAC System with Real-Time Video Analytics for Dynamic Airflow Modeling Based on Occupant Behavior and Pathogen Interaction

TRANE INT INC, 2022

HVAC systems and methods for optimizing indoor air quality through dynamic modeling of occupant behavior and pathogen spread. The system employs video analytics to capture and analyze occupant behavior in real-time, then simulates airflow patterns based on these behaviors. By incorporating dynamic modeling of occupant movement and interactions with pathogens, the system can dynamically adjust airflow control parameters to optimize pathogen reduction while maintaining optimal building performance.

20. Air Conditioning Unit with Integrated Bacteria Monitoring and Multi-Stage Disinfection System

Anhui Xiangyuan Technology Co., Ltd., ANHUI XIANGYUAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2020

Intelligent disinfection and purification system for combined air conditioning units in indoor public places that monitors and kills bacteria in the air. The system filters, physically disinfects, and chemically disinfects the air before outputting it. It uses a main controller, bacteria/virus monitor, oxygen detector, filter, physical disinfection device, chemical disinfection device, and fan. The controller controls the disinfection devices based on air quality data. The filter adsorbs particles, the physical disinfection uses UV/plasma, and the chemical disinfection uses antibacterial fibers.

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