As a new type of accommodation that blends technology and practicality, space capsule homes offer a uniquely immersive experience through their enclosed structure, but they also place high demands on ventilation design. If internal air circulation is poor, moisture and odors will not only reduce comfort but may also lead to potential hazards such as mold growth and material corrosion. Therefore, a systematic design is required to achieve a dynamic balance in air quality.
The core of the ventilation system lies in establishing an "active + passive" combined circulation model. Active ventilation relies on mechanical devices, such as low-noise centrifugal or axial fans, to draw fresh air into the cabin through pre-set air ducts while simultaneously exhausting contaminated air. Passive ventilation utilizes the principles of natural convection, with adjustable vents located at the top or bottom of the cabin, combining temperature and pressure differences to create air flow. These two modes should automatically switch based on the number of people in the cabin and the ambient temperature and humidity. For example, active ventilation could be disabled at night to reduce energy consumption, while passive ventilation could be used to replenish oxygen during the day.
Moisture-proof design should be integrated into the cabin's material selection and construction details. Cabin wall materials should preferably be composite panels or aluminum panels with excellent moisture-proof properties. The surface coating should be hydrophobic to prevent moisture penetration. Flooring can be made of non-slip tiles or PVC flooring, with joints treated with sealant to prevent moisture from entering through gaps. Waterproof gaskets should be installed at the joints between the keel and the panels in the cabin structure to prevent condensation from dripping through the structural gaps. Furthermore, cabin humidity sensors should be linked to the ventilation system to automatically activate dehumidification mode when the humidity exceeds a threshold.
Odor control requires both source control and dynamic purification. Independent sewage ducts should be designed for the cabin's living area to directly discharge exhaust from bathrooms and kitchens to avoid mixing with air from the living area. For odor sources that are difficult to completely isolate, such as trash cans or lockers, activated carbon adsorption layers or photocatalytic coatings can be used for localized purification. Furthermore, cabin air purifiers should integrate HEPA filters and activated carbon modules to continuously filter out pollutants such as PM2.5 and volatile organic compounds to ensure air freshness.
Airflow design is key to preventing moisture and odor. The placement of air inlets and outlets should follow the "upward flow, downward return" principle: fresh air enters from the top or high side walls, while contaminated air is exhausted from the bottom or low side walls, creating a vertical airflow cycle. This design effectively prevents moisture from accumulating at the bottom of the capsule and prevents odors from being trapped due to density differences. For multi-story space capsule homes, each floor should have its own independent ventilation unit to prevent cross-contamination between upper and lower levels.
The introduction of an intelligent control system can significantly improve ventilation efficiency. Using temperature and humidity sensors, CO₂ concentration sensors, and odor detectors, the system monitors cabin environmental parameters in real time and automatically adjusts parameters such as fan speed and vent opening. For example, if CO₂ concentrations exceed the specified limit, the system prioritizes increasing fresh air volume. When humidity approaches the dew point, the system activates the dehumidification function and reduces ventilation to prevent condensation. Users can also manually adjust the ventilation mode via a mobile app or the in-cabin touchscreen to meet their individual needs.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for the long-term effectiveness of the ventilation system. Filters should be cleaned or replaced monthly to prevent dust from clogging and affecting ventilation efficiency. Air ducts require professional cleaning annually to remove potential mold and insect eggs. Ventilation holes should be regularly inspected for leaks and rainwater backflow due to aging. Furthermore, the external environment can affect ventilation. For example, excessive vegetation can block the air inlet, so sufficient safety distance should be provided when selecting a location.
Through multi-dimensional design optimization, the Space Capsule Homestay's ventilation system achieves the goals of "efficient air exchange, precise humidity control, and rapid odor removal." From material selection to airflow organization, from intelligent control to regular maintenance, each component works together to ensure that the air quality inside the cabin consistently meets healthy standards, providing guests with a dry, fresh, and odor-free living environment, further highlighting the technological appeal and practical value of the Space Capsule Homestay.
