The Rickard range of VAV electronic diffusers uses a modular system design that is extremely reliable and easy to install. It can be used with most types of buildings, regardless of their size, due to the simplicity of its design and the flexibility of the system software. It is made up of six core components:

• The Master Communication Unit (MCU)
• On-board master Controller
• Master diffuser
• Wall thermostat
• Diffuser
• Power Supply (PSU)

The system can be very simple with one Rickard diffuser, controlled by either the on-board master controller or a wall thermostat.

The system can also be scaled up. A maximum of 60 diffusers can be accommodated on a single Master Communication Unit (MCU) and multiple MCU’s can be connected to the BMS if more than 60 diffusers are required. Up to 15 diffusers can be connected to a single power supply, and these can be split into multiple zones.

The diffusers can be individually controlled by either a wall thermostat or the on-board controller that sends its signal back to the BMS. The entire system is then monitored and changes are made through a PC using the Rickard stand-alone software or a BMS.

Rickard Electronic diffusers have adopted an easy to install “plug and play” system that uses simple, automotive grade, daisy chain connections. This helps to minimise the cost of installation and eliminates the risk of using the incorrect connectors.

For new installations of Rickard Electronic Diffusers, duct design that achieves static regain is highly recommended. If retrofitting to existing ducting that cannot be changed, a relief ring can be installed at the end of a duct run to release air pressure when the diffusers close.

Rickard’s MLM software is designed to simplify the commissioning and management of a diffuser network with a building. This software allows for easy configuration of diffuser parameters, monitoring of the network, and logging diffuser activity. The software helps reduce the cost of a BMS connection by decentralising the BMS access point. It controls a single Master Communications Unit using BACnet, connecting up to 60 diffusers in a group and significantly reducing the cost of connection

With a user-friendly graphic interface, the software provides easy-to-follow instructions and utilises simple color-coded diffuser icons for setup and commissioning. Rickard diffusers are defaulted and installed as a master, with the option to be converted to a slave if needed using the MLM software.

Rickard’s feature-filled MLM-installed software allows for individual diffuser communication and monitoring within a building. It includes features such as minimum and maximum temperature control, individual set points, occupancy sensing, diffuser grouping, diffuser isolation (enable/disable), CO2 monitoring, and fault finding, which contribute to maintaining a well-balanced VAV ventilation system, as well as remote building monitoring and tuning with minimal disturbance to building occupants.

The software also enables users to view up to 60 diffusers at a time, log faults, and centrally detect issues for resolution, providing a comprehensive view of the entire system. Moreover, it offers the ability to visualize the connectivity of each diffuser within a zone and allows users to view data in an easy-to-understand chart by selecting diffuser parameters. The Rickard system can be controlled via the MLM software as a stand-alone ventilation system or can be integrated into a building management system, with the BMS having the capability to override the MLM software when necessary.

Rickard offers a variety of controllers and sensors that can be integrated into a Building Management System (BMS) to control the HVAC system output based on changing thermal conditions and maintain comfort. These components automatically adjust the HVAC system’s operation, modify temperature and airflow volume, and reduce CO2 levels and demand when spaces are unoccupied.

Each electronic Rickard ceiling diffuser now comes with an onboard thermostat beneath the diffuser faceplate to accurately monitor the temperature within the space. Occupancy sensing is a standard feature with every diffuser.

If a wall thermostat is needed, there are several options available.

Wall Thermostat

The standard wall thermostat is also a master controller which enables the occupant to control the temperature of an allocated space. Typically, the set temperature is displayed, and the occupant can select a temperature within a preset range, such as between 20°C and 24°C.

Wall Thermostat with CO2

The CO2 wall thermostat has been designed to give accurate room temperature sensing while controlling CO2 levels via a defined preset level. When the CO2 value rises above the threshold, the diffusers open fully until the normal CO2 value is reached. The thermostat can also be monitored by a BMS to adjust the fresh air rates.

Wall Thermostat with Occupancy Sensing

Occupancy sensing is standard in every electronic Rickard VAV diffuser and available as an option with the wall thermostat. When a room with Rickard occupancy sensing is vacant, the diffuser will automatically reduce the supply of air to that room. If the room becomes occupied, the diffuser will return to automatic control. If the diffuser with occupancy sensing is connected to a BMS, it can also automatically control the room lights.

A Rickard system with wireless controls is designed to reduce the use of cable connections and allow location flexibility of controllers and sensors. Whether it’s at installation stage or rearranging an existing floorplan, Rickard wireless controls and sensors, can be placed anywhere within the building without disruption to the building’s structure or occupants

Rickard electronic ceiling and linier diffusers are available with air flow sensing that enables commissioning to occur easier and faster. Every room can now supply the precise amounts of air required via a unique air trimming feature. It allows the ventilation system to be electronically tuned remotely though the Rickard MLM software without the requirement of an Air Capture Hood.

Air flow sensors can be fitted to each Rickard diffuser for accurate air flow calculations or to one diffuser per zone to provide an indication of air flow in that zone. The air flow sensing feature also includes a commissioning mode that allows a maximum flow value to be limited to design volumes under maximum load conditions. This ensures the diffuser does not supply more air than intended.

The Rickard VAV diffuser system can include electric inline duct heaters if additional heating is required for particular zones. An inline heater can help reduce the energy consumption in a building. By using them for offices that are typically colder than the buildings average, it reduces the load on the central heating system.

• Fitted between the main duct and the diffuser flex duct
• Adjustable output to ensure stratification doesn’t occur
• MLM and BMS compatible