Lincoln National's IofTeam Partners with UNL to Innovate HVAC Technologies for Sustainability
- Lincoln National's collaboration with IofTeam enhances HVAC technologies, focusing on accurate refrigerant detection for improved efficiency.
- The partnership aims to integrate advanced detection methods into IofTeam's platform, addressing refrigerant management and sustainability.
- Joint research efforts will explore new intellectual property opportunities and align with evolving HVAC sustainability practices.
Strategic Partnership to Advance HVAC Technologies
IofTeam, a frontrunner in intelligent building operations, forges a significant public-private partnership with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Peter Kiewit Institute (PKI) to accelerate the commercialization of innovative HVAC technologies. This collaboration centers on a groundbreaking method developed by Dr. Haorong Li and his research team for accurately detecting refrigerant charge levels in variable refrigerant volume (VRF) systems, as specified in a provisional patent application from UNL. The integration of this advanced detection method into IofTeam's DigiMEP cloud-based platform aims to enhance predictive maintenance and energy efficiency across HVAC systems, addressing the industry's pressing need for precise refrigerant management.
As the HVAC sector transitions towards next-generation refrigerants in response to updated EPA regulations, the importance of effective refrigerant leak detection becomes paramount. Minor leaks can result in substantial energy waste and environmental implications, making accurate monitoring and management essential. By incorporating Dr. Li’s algorithm into DigiMEP, IofTeam aims to bolster equipment optimization, improve measurement verification, and provide robust technician support. This strategic enhancement enables service companies to achieve uniform diagnostics across various sites, ultimately contributing to greater sustainability and efficiency in building operations.
The partnership, which officially commenced on November 1, 2025, is structured around a joint steering committee that will oversee the initiative's progress. IofTeam assumes responsibility for covering the costs related to patent refiling and prosecution, while PKI will contribute technical support and partake in joint research efforts. Together, they aim to explore artificial intelligence models for building energy systems, with aspirations for additional industrial and federal funding. Patrick Davis, Founder and CEO of IofTeam, emphasizes that this collaboration exemplifies the fruitful synergy between academic research and practical application, fostering innovations that benefit both sectors.
In addition to its focus on HVAC advancements, this partnership also seeks to identify new intellectual property opportunities. Contributions from PKI will be recognized through co-inventorship and licensing arrangements, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship. This initiative not only highlights IofTeam's commitment to sustainability in building operations but also showcases the potential for collaborative innovation in the HVAC industry at large.
As IofTeam and PKI embark on this promising venture, the implications for both energy efficiency and environmental stewardship in HVAC systems are significant, positioning them at the forefront of industry advancements. The emphasis on predictive maintenance and intelligent operations aligns with the growing demand for sustainable practices in building management, reflecting the evolving landscape of the HVAC sector.