Air conditioning system and air conditioning control method

Abstract

The present application relates to air conditioning systems and air conditioning control methods. An air conditioning system includes an electric compressor; a condenser; a first control valve; a first evaporator that receives refrigerant from the condenser when the first control valve is open and transfers heat from air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator; a first blower that blows air through the first evaporator to a first portion of a vehicle cabin; a second control valve; a second evaporator that receives refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open and transfers heat from air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator; a second blower that blows air through the second evaporator to a second portion of the vehicle cabin; and a control module that controls a speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of a temperature of the second portion and a speed of the second blower when the internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blowing air through the second evaporator.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 201880062430.2, filed on September 26, 2018, having the title “TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 563,368, filed September 26, 2017, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 563,390, filed September 26, 2017, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 563,407, filed September 26, 2017, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 563,425, filed September 26, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 563,437, filed September 26, 2017. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 16 / 123,359, filed September 6, 2018, U.S. Application No. 16 / 123,425, filed September 6, 2018, U.S. Application No. 16 / 123,500, filed September 6, 2018, U.S. Application No. 16 / 123,541, filed September 6, 2018, and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 123,588, filed September 6, 2018. The entire disclosures of the above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to vehicles, and more particularly to air conditioning systems for vehicles. BACKGROUND

[0005] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. The work of the presently named inventors, to the extent the work is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that can not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the disclosure.

[0006] Compressors can be used in various industrial and residential applications to circulate a refrigerant to provide a desired heating or cooling effect. For example, compressors can be used to provide heating and / or cooling in a refrigeration system, a heat pump system, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, or a chiller system. These types of systems can be stationary, such as located at a building or residence, or mobile, such as located in a vehicle. Vehicles include land vehicles (e.g., trucks, cars, trains, etc.), water vehicles (e.g., boats), air vehicles (e.g., airplanes), and vehicles that operate on a combination of more than one of land, water, and air.

[0007] Vehicles often include an HVAC system that heats or cools a driver seating area of the vehicle. Some vehicles, such as semi-trucks, also include a living area in which a driver can sit, sleep, rest, etc. Some vehicles can include a partition (e.g., a curtain or wall) that can be opened to join the driver seating area and the living area. The partition can also be closed to separate the driver seating area from the living area, e.g., for sleeping.

[0008] Typically, the compressor of the HVAC system of the vehicle is engine driven. Thus, the engine is on to provide cooling. As such, the engine of the vehicle remains on to provide cooling while the driver is sleeping and at other times when the vehicle is not moving, in addition to operating while the vehicle is moving. SUMMARY

[0009] In one feature, an air conditioning system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine is described. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output by an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through the condenser. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator. A first blower is configured to blow air through the first evaporator to a first portion of a passenger compartment of the vehicle. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator. A second blower is configured to blow air through the second evaporator to a second portion of the passenger compartment of the vehicle. A control module is configured to open the first control valve and initiate operation of the electric compressor when the internal combustion engine of the vehicle is on and the first blower is blowing air through the first evaporator.

[0010] In other features, the control module is further configured to open the second control valve when the internal combustion engine of the vehicle is on and the second blower is blowing air through the second evaporator.

[0011] In other features, an inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command from the control module, and the control module is configured to set the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero in accordance with a discharge pressure of the electric compressor when the internal combustion engine of the vehicle is on and the first blower is blowing air through the first evaporator.

[0012] In other features, the control module is configured to decrease the compressor speed command as the discharge pressure increases and to increase the compressor speed command as the discharge pressure decreases.

[0013] Among other features, the control module is configured to determine the compressor speed command based on the discharge pressure until the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is greater than the freezing point temperature of water.

[0014] Among other features, the inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command from the control module, and the control module is configured to set the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero based on the current power consumption when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air across the first evaporator.

[0015] Among other features, the control module is configured to: decrease the compressor speed command as power consumption increases; and increase the compressor speed command as power consumption decreases.

[0016] Among other features, the control module is configured to determine the compressor speed command based on power consumption until the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is greater than the freezing point temperature of water.

[0017] Among other features, the inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command from the control module, and the control module is configured to set the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero based on the discharge pressure and current power consumption of the electric compressor when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air across the first evaporator.

[0018] Among other features, the control module is configured to decrease the compressor speed command when at least one of power consumption increases and discharge pressure increases; and to increase the compressor speed command when at least one of power consumption decreases and discharge pressure decreases.

[0019] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining whether the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running; and determining whether a first blower of the vehicle is blowing air through a first evaporator, wherein the first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from a condenser when a first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment, and wherein a condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and to transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser; and, when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air through the first evaporator, opening the first control valve and initiating operation of the electric compressor, wherein a second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator when a second control valve is open, and wherein a second blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the second evaporator and delivered to a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0020] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes opening a second control valve when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and the second blower is blowing air through the second evaporator.

[0021] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: applying power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command; and setting the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero based on the discharge pressure of the electric compressor when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and the first blower blows air through the first evaporator.

[0022] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: a command to decrease the compressor speed as the discharge pressure increases; and a command to increase the compressor speed as the discharge pressure decreases.

[0023] Among other features, the air conditioning control method also includes determining a compressor speed command based on the discharge pressure until the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is greater than the freezing point temperature of water.

[0024] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: applying power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command via an inverter drive device; and setting the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero based on the current power consumption when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air across the first evaporator.

[0025] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: decreasing the compressor speed command as the power consumption increases; and increasing the compressor speed command as the power consumption decreases.

[0026] Among other features, the air conditioning control method also includes: determining a compressor speed command based on power consumption until the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is greater than the freezing point temperature of water.

[0027] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: applying power to the electric compressor based on a compressor speed command via an inverter drive device; and setting the compressor speed command to a speed greater than zero based on the discharge pressure of the electric compressor and the current power consumption when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and the first blower blows air across the first evaporator.

[0028] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: a command to reduce compressor speed when at least one of power consumption increases and discharge pressure increases; and a command to increase compressor speed when at least one of power consumption decreases and discharge pressure decreases.

[0029] One feature describes an air conditioning system for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant from an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through it. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through it to the refrigerant within it. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and into a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A control module is configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air across the first evaporator.

[0030] Among other features, the control module is configured to: reduce the speed of the electric compressor as the temperature of the first evaporator decreases toward a minimum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range (lower limit); and increase the speed of the electric compressor as the temperature of the first evaporator increases toward a maximum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range (upper limit).

[0031] Among other characteristics, the minimum temperature is greater than the freezing point of water.

[0032] Among other features, the control module is configured to: operate the electric compressor at a first predetermined speed when the temperature of the first evaporator is equal to the minimum temperature of a predetermined temperature range; and to operate the electric compressor at a second predetermined speed greater than the first predetermined speed when the temperature of the first evaporator is equal to the maximum temperature of the predetermined temperature range.

[0033] Among other features, the control module is configured to operate the electric compressor at a third predetermined speed, less than the first predetermined speed, when the temperature of the first evaporator is less than the minimum temperature.

[0034] Among other features, the control module is configured to shut down the electric compressor while the electric compressor is operating at a third predetermined speed, and when the temperature of the first evaporator remains below the minimum temperature for a predetermined period of time.

[0035] Among other features, the control module is configured to further control the speed of the electric compressor based on the compressor suction pressure.

[0036] Among other features, the control module is configured to: reduce the speed of the electric compressor when the compressor suction pressure decreases toward the minimum pressure of the lower limit of a predetermined pressure range; and increase the speed of the electric compressor as the compressor suction pressure increases toward the maximum pressure of the upper limit of the predetermined pressure range.

[0037] Among other features, the control module is configured to: operate the electric compressor at a first predetermined speed when the compressor suction pressure is equal to the minimum pressure of a predetermined pressure range; and operate the electric compressor at a second predetermined speed greater than the first predetermined speed when the compressor suction pressure is equal to the maximum pressure of a predetermined pressure range.

[0038] Among other features, the control module is configured to operate the electric compressor at a third predetermined speed, less than a first predetermined speed, when the compressor suction pressure is less than the minimum pressure.

[0039] Among other features, the control module is configured to shut down the electric compressor when the compressor suction pressure remains below the minimum pressure for a predetermined period of time while the electric compressor is operating at a third predetermined speed.

[0040] Among other features, the control module is configured to determine the minimum and maximum pressures of a predetermined pressure range based on the compressor suction pressure when the temperature of the first evaporator drops to a predetermined temperature.

[0041] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining whether the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running; determining whether a first blower of the vehicle is blowing air through a first evaporator, wherein the first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from a condenser when a first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment, and wherein a condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and to transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser; and, when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running and the first blower is blowing air through the first evaporator, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator, wherein a second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator, and wherein a second blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the second evaporator and delivered to a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0042] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator includes: reducing the speed of the electric compressor as the temperature of the first evaporator decreases toward a minimum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range; and increasing the speed of the electric compressor as the temperature of the first evaporator increases toward a maximum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range.

[0043] Among other characteristics, the minimum temperature is greater than the freezing point of water.

[0044] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator includes: operating the electric compressor at a first predetermined speed when the temperature of the first evaporator is equal to the minimum temperature of a predetermined temperature range; and operating the electric compressor at a second predetermined speed greater than the first predetermined speed when the temperature of the first evaporator is equal to the maximum temperature of the predetermined temperature range.

[0045] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator includes operating the electric compressor at a third predetermined speed, which is less than a first predetermined speed, when the temperature of the first evaporator is less than a minimum temperature.

[0046] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator includes: shutting down the electric compressor while it is operating at a third predetermined speed and the temperature of the first evaporator remains below a minimum temperature for a predetermined time period.

[0047] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator includes controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator and the compressor suction pressure.

[0048] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator and the compressor suction pressure includes: reducing the speed of the electric compressor when the compressor suction pressure decreases toward a minimum pressure that defines a predetermined pressure range (lower limit); and increasing the speed of the electric compressor when the compressor suction pressure increases toward a maximum pressure that defines a predetermined pressure range (upper limit).

[0049] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator and the compressor suction pressure includes: operating the electric compressor at a first predetermined speed when the compressor suction pressure is equal to the minimum suction pressure of a predetermined pressure range; and operating the electric compressor at a second predetermined speed greater than the first predetermined speed when the compressor suction pressure is equal to the maximum pressure of the predetermined pressure range.

[0050] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator and the compressor suction pressure includes operating the electric compressor at a third predetermined speed, which is less than the first predetermined speed, when the compressor suction pressure is less than the minimum pressure.

[0051] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the first evaporator and the compressor suction pressure includes: shutting down the electric compressor while it is operating at a third predetermined speed, when the compressor suction pressure remains below the minimum pressure for a predetermined time period.

[0052] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: determining a minimum and maximum pressure within a predetermined pressure range based on the compressor suction pressure when the temperature of the first evaporator drops to a predetermined temperature.

[0053] One feature describes an air conditioning system for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through it. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and into a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. The control module is configured to control at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and the power consumption of the inverter drive when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and the first blower is blowing air across the first evaporator, wherein the inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command from the control module.

[0054] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the compressor discharge pressure, which includes: increasing the speed of the electric compressor as the compressor discharge pressure increases; and decreasing the speed of the electric compressor as the compressor discharge pressure decreases.

[0055] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the power consumption of the inverter drive unit. Controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the power consumption of the inverter drive unit includes: increasing the speed of the electric compressor as the power consumption increases; and decreasing the speed of the electric compressor as the power consumption decreases.

[0056] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on both the power consumption of the inverter drive and the compressor discharge pressure.

[0057] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the condenser fan based on the compressor discharge pressure, which includes: increasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases; and decreasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases.

[0058] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the condenser fan based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, which includes: increasing the fan speed as the power consumption decreases; and decreasing the fan speed as the power consumption increases.

[0059] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the fan speed based on both the power consumption of the inverter drive and the compressor discharge pressure.

[0060] Among other features, the control module is configured to further control the speed of the condenser fan based on the speed of the electric compressor.

[0061] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the speed of the condenser fan based on the speed of the electric compressor, which includes: increasing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor increases; and decreasing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor decreases.

[0062] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the fan speed based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor.

[0063] Among other features, the control module is configured to: increase the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases; and decrease the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases; increase the fan speed as power consumption increases; decrease the fan speed as power consumption decreases; increase the fan speed as the electric compressor speed increases; and decrease the fan speed as the electric compressor speed decreases.

[0064] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining whether the vehicle's internal combustion engine is running; determining whether a first blower of the vehicle is blowing air through a first evaporator, wherein the first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from a condenser when a first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment, and wherein the condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and to transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser; and... When the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and the first blower blows air through the first evaporator, at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan is controlled based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and the power consumption of the inverter drive, the inverter drive being configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command, wherein the second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is opened and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator, and the second blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the second evaporator and delivered to a second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0065] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the compressor discharge pressure, wherein controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the compressor discharge pressure includes: increasing the speed of the electric compressor as the compressor discharge pressure increases; and decreasing the speed of the electric compressor as the compressor discharge pressure decreases.

[0066] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, wherein controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the power consumption of the inverter drive includes: increasing the speed of the electric compressor as the power consumption increases; and decreasing the speed of the electric compressor as the power consumption decreases.

[0067] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on both the power consumption of the inverter drive and the compressor discharge pressure.

[0068] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the speed of the condenser fan based on the compressor discharge pressure, wherein controlling the speed of the condenser fan based on the compressor discharge pressure includes: increasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases; and decreasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases.

[0069] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the speed of the condenser fan based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, wherein controlling the speed of the condenser fan based on the power consumption of the inverter drive includes: increasing the fan speed as the power consumption decreases; and decreasing the fan speed as the power consumption increases.

[0070] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the fan speed based on both the power consumption of the inverter drive and the compressor discharge pressure.

[0071] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes further controlling the speed of the condenser fan based on the speed of the electric compressor.

[0072] Among other features, further control of the condenser fan speed based on the electric compressor speed includes: increasing the fan speed as the electric compressor speed increases; and decreasing the fan speed as the electric compressor speed decreases.

[0073] Among other features, controlling at least one of (i) the speed of the electric compressor and (ii) the speed of the condenser fan based on at least one of the compressor discharge pressure and power consumption includes controlling the fan speed based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor.

[0074] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the power consumption of the inverter drive unit, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor includes: increasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases; decreasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases; increasing the fan speed as power consumption increases; decreasing the fan speed as power consumption decreases; increasing the fan speed as the electric compressor speed increases; and decreasing the fan speed as the electric compressor speed decreases.

[0075] One feature describes an air conditioning system for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. An electric compressor draws power from a battery pack. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from the electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through it. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through it to the refrigerant within it. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and into a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A control module is configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of the temperature of the second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment and the speed of the second blower when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blowing air across the second evaporator.

[0076] Among other features, the control module is configured to determine whether to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or based on the speed of the second blower, based on the current of the electric compressor.

[0077] Among other features, the control module is configured to: control the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment when the current of the electric compressor is greater than a predetermined value; and control the speed of the electric compressor based on the speed of the second blower when the current of the electric compressor is not greater than the predetermined value.

[0078] Among other features, the control module is configured to, when the current of the electric compressor is greater than a predetermined value: (i) operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the car body is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of a predetermined temperature range; (ii) disable the electric compressor when the temperature of the second part of the car body is lower than the minimum temperature; (iii) keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the car body is greater than the maximum temperature of the upper limit of the predetermined temperature range; and (iv) repeat (i) to (iii) when the temperature of the second part of the car body is higher than the maximum temperature.

[0079] Among other features, the control module is configured to determine a compressor speed command based on the speed of the second blower when the current of the electric compressor is not greater than a predetermined value; and to operate the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command.

[0080] Among other features, the control module is configured to: increase the compressor speed command as the speed of the second blower increases; and decrease the compressor speed command as the speed of the second blower decreases.

[0081] Among other features, the control module is configured to: determine a compressor speed command based on the speed of the second blower until the voltage of the battery pack is less than a predetermined voltage; and when the voltage of the battery pack is less than the predetermined voltage: (i) operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of a predetermined temperature range; (ii) disable the electric compressor when the temperature of the second part of the compartment is lower than the minimum temperature; (iii) keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is greater than the maximum temperature of the upper limit of a predetermined temperature range; and (iv) repeat (i) to (iii) when the temperature of the second part of the compartment is higher than the maximum temperature.

[0082] Among other features, the control module is configured to: operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed for a predetermined time period; determine the current supplied to the electric compressor when the predetermined time period has elapsed; and, based on the current supplied to the electric compressor, determine whether to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or based on the speed of the second blower.

[0083] In one embodiment, the air conditioning system of a vehicle with an internal combustion engine includes an electric compressor and a condenser configured to receive refrigerant output from the electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through the condenser. A fan is configured to blow air across the condenser. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and into a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment. The control module is configured to: determine a compressor speed command when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blowing air through the second evaporator; and control the fan speed based on at least one of the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor, wherein the inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command.

[0084] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the fan speed based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, which includes: reducing the fan speed as power consumption decreases; and increasing the fan speed as power consumption increases.

[0085] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the fan speed based on the compressor discharge pressure, which includes: reducing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases; and increasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases.

[0086] Among other features, the control module is configured to control the fan speed based on the speed of the electric compressor, which includes: reducing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor decreases; and increasing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor increases.

[0087] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining whether the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, wherein a first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from a condenser when a first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment, and wherein the condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor that draws power from a battery pack and transfers heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser; determining whether the electric compressor is off. Whether to turn on; determining whether the second blower is turned on and blows air through the second evaporator, wherein the second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator, and wherein the second blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the second evaporator and delivered to the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment; and, when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blows air through the second evaporator, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on at least one of the temperature of the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment and the speed of the second blower.

[0088] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment and the speed of the second blower includes: determining whether the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower based on the current of the electric compressor.

[0089] Among other features, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment and the speed of the second blower includes: controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment when the current of the electric compressor is greater than a predetermined value; and controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the speed of the second blower when the current of the electric compressor is not greater than the predetermined value.

[0090] Among other features, when the current of the electric compressor is greater than a predetermined value, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment includes: (i) operating the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment is less than a minimum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range; (ii) disabling the electric compressor when the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment is lower than the minimum temperature; (iii) keeping the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment is higher than a maximum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range; and (iv) repeating (i) to (iii) when the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment is higher than the maximum temperature.

[0091] Among other features, when the current of the electric compressor is not greater than a predetermined value, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the speed of the second blower includes: determining a compressor speed command based on the speed of the second blower; and operating the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command.

[0092] Among other features, the air conditioning control method also includes: increasing the compressor speed command as the speed of the second blower increases; and decreasing the compressor speed command as the speed of the second blower decreases.

[0093] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: determining a compressor speed command based on the speed of the second blower until the voltage of the battery pack is less than a predetermined voltage; and when the voltage of the battery pack is less than the predetermined voltage: (i) operating the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is less than a minimum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range; (ii) disabling the electric compressor when the temperature of the second part of the compartment is below the minimum temperature; (iii) keeping the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is above a maximum temperature that defines a predetermined temperature range; and (iv) repeating (i) to (iii) when the temperature of the second part of the compartment is above the maximum temperature.

[0094] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes: operating the electric compressor at a predetermined speed for a predetermined time period; and determining the current supplied to the electric compressor when the predetermined time period has elapsed, wherein controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment and the speed of the second blower includes: determining, based on the current of the electric compressor, whether the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower.

[0095] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining whether the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, wherein a first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from a condenser when a first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and into a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment, wherein a condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and to transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser, and wherein a fan is configured to blow air across the condenser; determining whether the electric compressor is on; determining whether a second blower is on and blowing air across the condenser; A second evaporator, wherein the second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator, and wherein the second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and delivered to a second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment; and when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blown air across the second evaporator: determining a compressor speed command; and controlling the fan speed based on at least one of the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor, wherein the inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command.

[0096] Among other features, controlling the fan speed based on at least one of the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor includes controlling the fan speed based on the power consumption of the inverter drive, which includes: decreasing the fan speed as the power consumption decreases; and increasing the fan speed as the power consumption increases.

[0097] Among other features, controlling the fan speed based on at least one of the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor includes controlling the fan speed based on the compressor discharge pressure, which includes: decreasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure decreases; and increasing the fan speed as the compressor discharge pressure increases.

[0098] Among other features, controlling the fan speed based on at least one of the power consumption of the inverter drive, the compressor discharge pressure, and the speed of the electric compressor includes controlling the fan speed based on the speed of the electric compressor, which includes: reducing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor decreases; and increasing the fan speed as the speed of the electric compressor increases.

[0099] One feature describes an air conditioning system for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant from an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through it. A fan is configured to blow air across the condenser. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment via a first duct system. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through it to the refrigerant within it. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and delivered to a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment via a second duct system. A control module is configured to determine a compressor speed command for the electric compressor. An inverter drive is configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command. The actuator is configured to: open and allow airflow between the inverter drive and the pipes of the second piping system; and close and block airflow between the inverter drive and the pipes of the second piping system.

[0100] Among other features, the control module is also configured to selectively turn the actuators on and off based on the temperature of the inverter drive.

[0101] Among other features, the control module is configured to activate the actuator when the temperature of the inverter drive exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0102] Among other features, the control module is configured to shut down the actuator when the temperature of the inverter drive is below a predetermined temperature.

[0103] Among other features, the control module is configured to shut down the actuator when the electric compressor is turned off.

[0104] Among other features, the control module is configured to shut off the actuator when the HVAC mode is set to heating mode in response to receiving user input about the HVAC mode.

[0105] Among other features, the control module is configured to: selectively open the second control valve; and selectively open the actuator when the second control valve is open.

[0106] Among other features: the driver's seat is located in the first part of the vehicle's passenger compartment; and the driver's seat is not located in the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0107] One feature describes an air conditioning system for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. A condenser is configured to receive refrigerant from an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through it. A fan is configured to blow air across the condenser. A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment via a first duct system. A second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a second control valve is open and transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within it. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and delivered to a second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment via a second duct system. A control module is configured to determine a compressor speed command for the electric compressor. An inverter drive is implemented within a housing and configured to apply power to the electric compressor based on the compressor speed command. A drive fan blows air across the inverter drive. The control module is also configured to control the operation of the driver fan based on the temperature of the inverter drive unit.

[0108] Among other features, the drive fan draws air from the vehicle's cabin.

[0109] Among other features, the actuator is configured to: open and allow airflow between the inverter drive and the conduit of the second conduit system; and close and block airflow between the inverter drive and the conduit of the second conduit system.

[0110] Among other features, the control module is configured to: turn on the driver fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is greater than a first predetermined temperature; and after turning on the driver fan, keep the driver fan on until the temperature of the inverter drive is less than a second predetermined temperature, wherein the second predetermined temperature is less than the first predetermined temperature.

[0111] Among other features, the control module is configured to: shut down the driver fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is lower than a second predetermined temperature; and after shutting down the driver fan, keep the driver fan off until the temperature of the inverter drive is higher than a first predetermined temperature.

[0112] Among other features, the control module is configured to: reduce the speed of the driver fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is lower than a second predetermined temperature; and after reducing the speed of the driver fan, operate the driver fan at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the inverter drive is higher than a first predetermined temperature.

[0113] Among other features, the control module is configured to: determine a driver speed command based on the rate of temperature rise when the temperature of the inverter drive is greater than a first predetermined temperature; and operate the driver fan based on the driver speed command.

[0114] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining the temperature of an inverter drive unit; and applying power to an electric compressor based on a compressor speed command via the inverter drive unit, wherein a condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from the electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through the condenser, wherein a first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is opened and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and through a first pipe The second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator. A second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and through the second duct system to the second part of the vehicle's compartment; sets a compressor speed command; and selectively actuates an actuator configured to: open and allow airflow between the inverter drive and the duct of the second duct system; and close and block airflow between the inverter drive and the duct of the second duct system.

[0115] Among other features, selectively actuating the actuator includes selectively turning the actuator on and off based on the temperature of the inverter drive unit.

[0116] Among other features, selectively actuating the actuator includes turning on the actuator when the temperature of the inverter drive is above a predetermined temperature.

[0117] Among other features, selectively actuating the actuator includes shutting down the actuator when the temperature of the inverter drive is below a predetermined temperature.

[0118] Among other features, selectively actuating the actuator includes shutting off the actuator when the electric compressor is turned off.

[0119] Among other features, selectively actuating the actuator includes turning off the actuator when the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) mode set in response to receiving user input about the HVAC mode is a heating mode.

[0120] Among other features, the air conditioning control method also includes selectively opening a second control valve, wherein selectively actuating the actuator includes selectively opening the actuator when the second control valve is open.

[0121] Among other features: the driver's seat is located in the first part of the vehicle's passenger compartment; and the driver's seat is not located in the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0122] In one feature, an air conditioning control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes: determining the temperature of an inverter drive unit; and applying power to an electric compressor based on a compressor speed command via the inverter drive unit, wherein a condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from the electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to air passing through the condenser, wherein a first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when a first control valve is opened and transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator, wherein a first blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the first evaporator and delivered to a first portion of the vehicle compartment via a first duct system, wherein a second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser and transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator when a second control valve is opened, wherein a second blower mechanism causes air to be blown through the second evaporator and delivered to a second portion of the vehicle compartment via a second duct system; setting a compressor speed command; and controlling the operation of a drive fan based on the temperature of the inverter drive unit, the drive fan being configured to blow air through the inverter drive unit.

[0123] Among other features, the drive fan is configured to draw air from the vehicle's cabin.

[0124] Among other features, the air conditioning control method further includes selectively actuating an actuator based on the temperature of the inverter drive, the actuator being configured to: open and allow airflow between the inverter drive and the duct of the second duct system; and close and block airflow between the inverter drive and the duct of the second duct system.

[0125] Among other features, the operation of controlling the driver fan includes: turning on the driver fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is greater than a first predetermined temperature; and after turning on the driver fan, keeping the driver fan on until the temperature of the inverter drive is less than a second predetermined temperature, wherein the second predetermined temperature is less than the first predetermined temperature.

[0126] Among other features, the operation of controlling the drive fan includes: turning off the drive fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is lower than a second predetermined temperature; and after turning off the drive fan, keeping the drive fan off until the temperature of the inverter drive is higher than a first predetermined temperature.

[0127] Among other features, controlling the operation of the driver fan includes: reducing the speed of the driver fan when the temperature of the inverter drive is lower than a second predetermined temperature; and after reducing the speed of the driver fan, operating the driver fan at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the inverter drive is higher than a first predetermined temperature.

[0128] Among other features, controlling the operation of the driver fan includes: when the temperature of the inverter drive is greater than a first predetermined temperature: determining a driver speed command based on the rate of temperature rise; and operating the driver fan based on the driver speed command.

[0129] Other areas of application of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, claims, and drawings. The detailed description and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0130] This disclosure will be more fully understood through a detailed description and accompanying drawings, in which:

[0131] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B This is a functional block diagram of an example vehicle system.

[0132] FIG. 2 An exemplary illustration includes a sample vehicle that includes components of an air conditioning system.

[0133] FIG. 3 A functional block diagram of an example implementation of an air conditioning system.

[0134] FIG. 4 Includes a functional block diagram of an example system, which includes a control module, various sensors of the vehicle, and various actuators of the vehicle.

[0135] FIG. 5 A functional block diagram including an example implementation of the control module.

[0136] FIG. 6 Includes a flowchart describing an example method for controlling the compressor speed for pulldown.

[0137] FIG. 7 An example diagram including compressor speed command adjustment values ​​as a function of discharge pressure.

[0138] FIG. 8 An example diagram including compressor speed command adjustment values ​​as a function of power consumption.

[0139] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9BThe document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling the compressor speed based on evaporator temperature to reduce speed and prevent freezing at the evaporator heat exchanger (HEX).

[0140] FIG. 10 An example diagram includes the compressor speed command adjustment value as a function of evaporator temperature.

[0141] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B This includes a flowchart depicting an example method for controlling the compressor speed based on evaporator temperature and suction pressure to reduce speed and prevent freezing at the evaporator HEX.

[0142] FIG. 12 An example diagram including compressor speed command adjustment values ​​as a function of suction pressure.

[0143] FIG. 13 It includes a flowchart depicting an example method for controlling the speed of a compressor based on discharge pressure.

[0144] FIG. 14 This includes a flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling the compressor speed based on the power consumption of an air conditioning system.

[0145] FIG. 15 It includes flowcharts illustrating example methods for controlling the speed of the compressor and the speed of the condenser fan.

[0146] FIG. 16 , FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 This includes example diagrams of condenser fan speed commands that are functions of power consumption, exhaust pressure, and compressor speed when the engine is running.

[0147] FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B It includes a flowchart describing an example method for controlling the compressor speed to manage battery pack charging when the engine is off.

[0148] FIG. 20 An example diagram showing the compressor speed command adjustment value as a function of the blower speed.

[0149] FIG. 21 It includes a flowchart depicting an example method for controlling the compressor speed to manage battery pack charging when the engine is off.

[0150] FIG. 22 , FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 This includes example diagrams for condenser fan speed commands that are functions of power consumption, exhaust pressure, and compressor speed when the engine is off.

[0151] FIG. 25 Includes a flowchart depicting an example method of controlling a baffle door to regulate the temperature of the actuator.

[0152] FIG. 26A This includes example implementations of baffle doors and HVAC ducts that can be used for cooling drives.

[0153] FIG. 26B , FIG. 26C , FIG. 26D and FIG. 26E This includes an example implementation of a driver fan that can be used to cool the driver.

[0154] FIG. 27 Includes flowcharts depicting example methods for controlling the operation of one or more drive fans to minimize noise when the engine is off.

[0155] In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals may be used repeatedly to identify similar and / or identical elements. Detailed Implementation

[0156] Some vehicles, such as semi-trucks, have a passenger compartment that consists of two parts: a first part where the driver operates the vehicle, and a second part where the driver can, for example, sleep. Some vehicles include heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems with ductwork that allows for heating and cooling of both the first and second parts.

[0157] Vehicles that include an HVAC system may include a refrigerant compressor (for cooling) mechanically driven by the engine. The speed of the refrigerant compressor, and therefore its output, is related to the engine's rotational speed. Because cooling is impossible when the engine is off, the driver can keep the engine running to provide cooling even when the vehicle is parked and not being driven. For example, the engine can remain running to provide cooling when the vehicle is parked and the driver is sleeping in the second part of the passenger compartment.

[0158] Keeping the engine running to provide cooling when the vehicle is parked and the driver is asleep is an inefficient use of the engine. Additionally, by keeping the engine running, the refrigerant compressor also keeps running and can cool the passenger compartment more than desired.

[0159] This application relates to an electric refrigerant compressor (for cooling) not driven by an engine. An inverter driver supplies power to the electric refrigerant compressor from a battery pack based on a (variable) compressor speed command. A control module selectively alters the compressor speed command, for example, to prevent freezing at the evaporator (e.g., based on at least one of evaporator temperature and suction pressure), thereby maximizing efficiency when the engine is running (e.g., based on at least one of discharge pressure and power consumption), and / or maximizing battery life when the engine is not running (e.g., based on blower speed and / or cabin air temperature). Additionally or alternatively, the control module may selectively alter the condenser fan speed and / or evaporator fan speed, for example, to maximize efficiency when the engine is running and / or maximize battery life when the engine is not running.

[0160] Additionally or alternatively, when the inverter drive temperature becomes higher than a predetermined temperature, the control module can selectively open actuators (e.g., baffle doors) to provide cooling to the inverter drive. Cooling the inverter drive can improve its efficiency and allow components with lower operating temperature ratings to be used. Components with lower operating temperature ratings may be less expensive than the same components with higher operating temperature ratings. By using an electric refrigerant compressor, the engine can be shut down, but the passenger compartment can still be cooled.

[0161] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B This is a functional block diagram of an example system for vehicle 100. Vehicle 100 includes an internal combustion engine 104 that burns air and fuel in its cylinders to generate propulsion torque for vehicle 100. Engine 104 can burn fuels such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and / or one or more other types of fuel. Engine 104 outputs torque to a drivetrain 108. Drivetrain 108 transmits torque to two or more wheels of the vehicle. Although a semi-truck example is provided, this application is also applicable to other types of land vehicles (e.g., trucks, cars, trains, buses, recreational vehicles (RVs), motorhomes, etc.), water vehicles (e.g., boats), air vehicles (e.g., airplanes), and vehicles operating in a combination of land, water, and air. Furthermore, although an example of a wheeled vehicle is provided, this application is not limited to vehicles with wheels.

[0162] Power source 112 is driven by engine 104 and converts the mechanical energy of engine 104 into electrical energy to charge battery 116. Power source 112 may include an alternator, generator, and / or another type of device that converts the mechanical energy of engine 104 into electrical energy. Although an example of a single power source is provided, multiple or zero power sources driven by engine 104 may be included. Power source 112 may be, for example, a 12-volt (V) alternator (e.g., in...). FIG. 1A (in the example) and / or a 48V AC generator (e.g., in FIG. 1B (as in the example).

[0163] Vehicle 100 also includes battery pack 120. By way of example only, battery pack 120 may be a 48V direct current (DC) battery pack, but another suitable battery pack may also be used. Battery pack 120 may include two or more individual batteries connected together, or it may include a single battery. For example, in the case of a 48V battery pack, battery pack 120 may include four 12V batteries connected in series. The batteries may be connected such that a lower voltage, such as 12V, 24V, and / or 36V, can be obtained from one, two, or three of the batteries.

[0164] In various implementations, battery pack 120 may include four individual 12V batteries connected in series. The batteries may be arranged in two rows (A and B), with each row having two individual 12V batteries (battery 1 and 2) connected in series to provide two 24V reference potentials.

[0165] Battery pack 120 supplies power to an HVAC system including air conditioning system 124. Air conditioning system 124 selectively cools cooling space 128. Cooling space 128 is a space within vehicle 100 that can be cooled based on a setpoint temperature. The driver of the vehicle drives the vehicle while located within cooling space 128 (e.g., sitting in the driver's seat). In various implementations, cooling space 128 can be (e.g., physically) divided into multiple cooling spaces that can be cooled based on individual setpoint temperatures. For example, drive portion 129 of cooling space 128 can be cooled based on a first setpoint temperature, and living portion 131 of cooling space 128 can be cooled based on a second setpoint temperature. Living portion 131 can be located behind drive portion 129 relative to the forward direction of vehicle travel. The first and second setpoint temperatures can be set respectively based on user input (e.g., initiated by the driver or another user) regarding the first and second setpoint temperatures.

[0166] A user can change the first setpoint temperature via one or more user input devices, such as one or more user input devices located within the drive section 129 of the cooling space 128. A user can change the second setpoint temperature via one or more user input devices, such as one or more user input devices located within the living section 131 of the cooling space 128. The vehicle 100 can be, for example, but not limited to, a semi-truck that can be used to tow a trailer (e.g., a tractor-trailer). This application is more generally applicable to vehicles with two evaporator heat exchangers. As further discussed below, the control module can control the air conditioning system 124 based on the temperature within the cooling space, the setpoint temperature, and other parameters.

[0167] Vehicle 100 includes one or more doors, such as door 132, which provide access to cooling space 128 (e.g., drive section 129) for entering and exiting the vehicle. Although an example with only one door is shown, vehicle 100 may include more than one door.

[0168] like FIG. 1A As illustrated in the example, vehicle 100 may include one or more voltage converters 150 that convert the output of power source 112 into one or more outputs for charging battery pack 120. In the example where power source 112 produces a 12V DC output, the one or more voltage converters 150 may boost (e.g., increase) the output of power source 112 to, for example, one or more other voltages (e.g., 24V DC, 48V DC) and charge battery pack 120 via the boosted output. Since power source 112 is driven by the rotation of engine 104, power source 112 can be used to charge battery pack 120 when engine 104 is running.

[0169] In the example of power supply 112 that generates a 48V DC output, such as FIG. 1B As shown, the output of power source 112 can charge battery pack 120. However, vehicle 100 may include a voltage converter 152 that converts the output of power source 112 into an output for charging battery 116. For example, voltage converter 152 may step down (i.e., reduce) the output of power source 112 to, for example, a lower voltage (e.g., 12V DC) and charge battery pack 120 via the stepped-down output. In various implementations, vehicle 100 may also include a battery charger that selectively charges battery 116 using received power (e.g., power from power source 112 or voltage converter).

[0170] Vehicle 100 may also include one or more battery chargers that selectively charge battery pack 120 using received power (e.g., power from power source 112 or a voltage converter). For example, vehicle 100 may include four models of the SEC-2440 battery charger manufactured by Samlex America Inc., Burnaby, BC, Canada. The battery chargers may, for example, be arranged to connect as two sets of two 24V, 40A battery chargers providing a 48V, 80A output for battery charging. While an example of a battery charger with a 24V, 40A output is provided, a battery charger with another output, such as a 12V charger connected to each battery, may be used. The battery chargers may also monitor the individual batteries of battery pack 120 and control the power supply to each battery to prevent overcharging. In various implementations, a drive (discussed further below) may charge battery pack 120, eliminating the need for separate battery chargers.

[0171] Although power source 112 is shown as providing power for charging both battery 116 and battery pack 120, a second power source can be used to convert the power of engine 104 into power for charging battery pack 120. In this case, power source 112 can be used to charge battery 116, and the second power source can be used to charge battery pack 120.

[0172] In various implementations, battery pack 120 can be charged via one or more other power sources. For example, battery pack 120 can be charged using power from a utility received via a vehicle's outlet. The outlet can be configured to receive AC or DC power. For example, the outlet can receive AC power from a utility via a power line (e.g., an extension cord) connecting the outlet to a wall outlet or charger in the building. The outlet can be, for example, a single-phase 110 / 120 or 208 / 240V AC outlet or a three-phase 208 / 240V AC outlet. In various implementations, vehicle 100 may include both 110 / 120V AC outlets and 208 / 240V AC outlets. Although an example of an outlet receiving AC power is provided, the outlet may alternatively receive DC power via a power line. Power received from a utility via the outlet is referred to as shore power. In this example, vehicle 100 may include one or more battery chargers that use shore power to charge battery pack 120. These one or more battery chargers may be the same as or different from the battery chargers mentioned above.

[0173] Vehicle 100 may optionally include solar panel 172. Solar panel 172 converts solar energy into electrical energy. Although an example of a solar panel is provided, multiple solar panels may also be used. Voltage converter 176 converts the power output by solar panel 172 and charges battery pack 120.

[0174] As discussed further below, the air conditioning system 124 includes an electric variable-speed compressor that is not mechanically driven by any rotating parts of the vehicle 100—such as the engine 104 or components of the drivetrain 108. Instead, the variable-speed compressor is driven by electricity applied to an electric motor. A control module controls the operation of the variable-speed compressor to maximize comfort within the cooling space 128, maximize the efficiency of the air conditioning system 124, minimize the discharge of the battery pack 120, and maximize the lifespan of the components of the air conditioning system 124.

[0175] FIG. 2 The example illustration includes a sample truck that includes components of an air conditioning system 124. FIG. 3 A functional block diagram of an example implementation of the air conditioning system 124 is provided. FIG. 3 In the example, dashed lines represent refrigerant flow, and solid lines represent electrical and physical connections.

[0176] Now refer to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 The compressor 204 receives refrigerant vapor via its suction line. In various implementations, the compressor 204 may receive refrigerant vapor from a collector that collects liquid refrigerant to minimize the amount of liquid refrigerant flowing to the compressor 204.

[0177] Compressor 204 compresses the refrigerant and supplies pressurized refrigerant in vapor form to condenser heat exchanger (HEX) 212. Compressor 204 includes an electric motor 216 that drives a pump to compress the refrigerant. By way of example only, compressor 204 may include a scroll compressor, a reciprocating compressor, or another type of refrigerant compressor. Electric motor 216 may include, for example, an induction motor, a permanent magnet motor (brushed or brushless), or another suitable type of electric motor. In various implementations, electric motor 216 may be a brushless permanent magnet (BPM) motor. BPM motors may be more efficient than other types of motors. Compressor 204 is a variable speed compressor.

[0178] All or part of the pressurized refrigerant is converted into a liquid form within the HEX 212 condenser. The HEX 212 condenser transfers heat from the refrigerant, thereby cooling it. When the refrigerant vapor is cooled to a temperature lower than the refrigerant's saturation temperature, the refrigerant transforms into a liquid (or liquefies).

[0179] One or more condenser fans 220 can be implemented to increase airflow on, around, and / or through the condenser HEX 212 and increase the rate of heat transfer away from the refrigerant. For example... FIG. 2 As shown, the condenser HEX 212 can be implemented near the front of the vehicle 100, such that airflow passes through the condenser HEX 212 when the vehicle 100 is traveling in the forward direction. However, the condenser HEX 212 can be located in another suitable position.

[0180] Refrigerant from condenser HEX 212 is delivered to receiving member 224. Receiving member 224 can be implemented to store excess refrigerant. In various implementations, receiving member 224 can be omitted. A filter dryer can be implemented to remove moisture and debris from the refrigerant. In various implementations, a filter dryer can be omitted.

[0181] In various implementations, the air conditioning system 124 may include an enhanced vapor injection (EVI) system. The EVI system causes a portion of the refrigerant from the receiver 224 to expand into vapor form, superheats the vaporized refrigerant, and supplies the superheated vaporized refrigerant to the compressor 204, for example, at the midpoint of the compressor chamber. EVI can be implemented, for example, to increase the capacity and efficiency of the air conditioning system 124.

[0182] Refrigerant from receiver 224 flows to first evaporator control valve 244 and second evaporator control valve 248. First evaporator control valve 244 may be, for example, a solenoid valve or another suitable type of valve. Second evaporator control valve 248 may be, for example, a solenoid valve or another suitable type of valve.

[0183] Refrigerant may flow through the driver HEX before flowing to the first evaporator control valve 244 and the second evaporator control valve 248. The driver HEX draws heat from the driver 256 (e.g., an inverter driver) and transfers heat to the refrigerant flowing through the driver HEX. Although an example of the driver being cooled by a liquid (refrigerant) is provided, liquid cooling can be omitted, and the driver 256 can be cooled by air. Air cooling can be active (e.g., via one or more devices) and / or passive (e.g., by conduction and convection). An example of active cooling of the driver 256 is further discussed below.

[0184] Driver 256 controls the application of power from battery pack 120 to electric motor 216. For example, driver 256 may control the application of power to electric motor 216 based on a compressor speed command from control module 260. Based on the speed command, driver 256 can generate three-phase AC power (e.g., 208 / 240V AC) from the power output of battery pack 120 and apply that three-phase AC power to electric motor 216. Driver 256 may set one or more characteristics of the three-phase AC power, such as frequency, voltage, and / or current, based on the compressor speed command. By way of example only, driver 256 may be a variable frequency drive (VFD). Driver 256 may, for example, determine a pulse width modulation (PWM) duty cycle to apply to the switching of driver 256 to generate AC power with these characteristics. In various implementations, one or more electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters may be implemented between battery pack 120 and driver 256.

[0185] Control module 260 can set the compressor speed command to a number of different possible speeds for the variable speed operation of electric motor 216 and compressor 204. Control module 260 and drive 256 can communicate, for example, using RS485 Modbus or another suitable type of communication, including but not limited to Controller Area Network (CAN) bus or analog signals (e.g., 0V to 10V signals).

[0186] When the pressure of the refrigerant output by compressor 204 exceeds a predetermined pressure, high-pressure cutoff (HPCO) 262 can be implemented to disconnect drive 256 from power and deactivate electric motor 216. Control module 260 can also control the operation of compressor 204 based on a pressure comparison of the refrigerant output by compressor 204. For example, when the pressure of the refrigerant output by compressor 204 is less than a second predetermined pressure—which is less than or equal to a predetermined pressure used by HPCO 262—control module 260 can shut down or reduce the speed of compressor 204.

[0187] When the first evaporator control valve 244 is open, the refrigerant can expand into vapor form through the first expansion valve 264 and be supplied to the first evaporator HEX 268. The first expansion valve 264 may include a TXV (thermal expansion valve) or an EXV (electronic expansion valve).

[0188] The first evaporator HEX 268 supplies cooling air to the drive section 129 of the cooling space 128. More specifically, the vaporized refrigerant within the first evaporator HEX 268 transfers heat from the air passing through it (i.e., absorbs heat). The cooling air flows from the first evaporator HEX 268 to the drive section 129 of the vehicle 100 via a first HVAC duct 270. The first HVAC duct 270 includes at least one duct for cooling air flow to the passenger side of the vehicle and at least one duct for cooling air flow to the driver side of the vehicle.

[0189] When the second evaporator control valve 248 is open, refrigerant can expand into vapor form through the second expansion valve 272 and be supplied to the second evaporator HEX 276. The second expansion valve 272 may include a TXV or an EXV. The second evaporator HEX 276 supplies cooling air to the living quarters 131 of the cooling space 128. More specifically, the vaporized refrigerant within the second evaporator HEX 276 transfers heat from the air passing through the second evaporator HEX 276 (i.e., absorbs heat). Cooling air flows from the second evaporator HEX 276 to the living quarters 131 of the vehicle 100 via the second HVAC duct 278. The second HVAC duct 278 includes at least one duct for cooling air flow to the passenger side of the vehicle 100 and at least one duct for cooling air flow to the driver side of the vehicle 100.

[0190] The first blower 280 draws air from the cooling space 128 and / or from outside the vehicle 100. When activated, the first blower 280 increases the airflow above, around, and / or through the first evaporator HEX 268 to increase the efficiency of heat transfer (i.e., cooling) of the air flowing through the first evaporator HEX 268 and reaching the cooling space 128.

[0191] The second blower 282 draws air from the cooling space 128 and / or from outside the vehicle 100. When activated, the second blower 282 increases the airflow above, around, and / or through the second evaporator HEX 276 to increase the efficiency of heat transfer (i.e., cooling) of the air flowing through the second evaporator HEX 276 and reaching the cooling space 128. Refrigerant from the first evaporator HEX 268 and the second evaporator HEX 276 flows back to the compressor 204 for the next cycle.

[0192] Control module 260 can control the speed of the first blower 280 and the speed of the second blower 282, as further discussed below. For example, control module 260 can control the application of power from battery pack 120 to the electric motors of the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 based on various speed commands. Based on various speed commands, control module 260 can generate AC power (e.g., single-phase or three-phase) from the power output of battery pack 120 and apply that AC power to electric motor 216. Control module 260 can set one or more characteristics of the AC power based on various speed commands—such as frequency, voltage, and / or current. Control module 260 can, for example, determine the PWM duty cycle to apply the PWM duty cycle to the switching of driver 256 to generate AC power with these characteristics.

[0193] Control module 260 can set speed commands to multiple different possible speeds to cause the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 to operate at variable speeds. While an example of control module 260 supplying power to the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 is provided, another module or driver 256 can apply power to the first blower 280 and the second blower 282.

[0194] Regarding active cooling of the drive 256, a baffle 284 may be implemented to allow or block airflow from the second blower 282 to the housing housing the drive 256. For example, when the baffle 284 is open, cooling air from the second evaporator HEX 276 or from the second HVAC duct 278 may travel to the cooling space 128 and enter the housing of the drive 256 to cool the drive 256. When the baffle 284 is closed, it may block airflow to the housing (and therefore to the drive 256). Although an example of a baffle 284 has been provided, another suitable actuator may also be used to allow / block airflow to the drive 256. FIG. 3 The curve in the diagram is a schematic representation of airflow.

[0195] The air conditioning system 124 may also include a compressor pressure regulator (CPR) valve for regulating the pressure of the refrigerant supplied to the compressor 204 via the suction line. For example, the CPR valve may be closed to limit the pressure entering the compressor 204 during startup. The CPR valve may be an electronically controlled valve (e.g., a stepper motor or solenoid valve), a mechanical valve, or another suitable type of valve. In various implementations, the CPR valve may be omitted.

[0196] FIG. 4The diagram includes a functional block diagram of an example system, comprising a control module 260, various sensors of vehicle 100, and various actuators of vehicle 100. The control module 260 receives various measurement parameters and indications from the sensors of vehicle 100. The control module 260 controls the actuators of the air conditioning system 124 of vehicle 100. As an example, the control module 260 may be an iPRO series control module (e.g., 100 series, 200 series, 4DIN series, 10DIN series) from Dixell Srl, located in Pieve d'Alpago (BL), Italy. One example is the iPRO IPG115D control module; however, the control module 260 could also be another suitable type of control module.

[0197] Ignition sensor 304 indicates whether the ignition system of vehicle 100 is on or off. The driver can, for example, activate the ignition key, button, or switch to turn on the ignition system of vehicle 100 and start the engine 104. An on ignition system indicates that the engine 104 is running and burning air and fuel. The driver can, for example, activate the ignition key, button, or switch to turn off the ignition system of vehicle 100 and shut off the engine 104. An off ignition system indicates that the engine 104 is off and not burning air and fuel.

[0198] Discharge line temperature (DLT) sensor 308 measures the temperature of the refrigerant output from compressor 204 (e.g., in the discharge line). The temperature of the refrigerant output from compressor 204 may be referred to as discharge line temperature or DLT. The discharge line temperature may be provided directly to control module 260. Alternatively, the discharge line temperature may be provided to driver 256, and driver 256 may transmit the discharge line temperature to control module 260.

[0199] The liquid line temperature sensor 312 measures the temperature of the liquid refrigerant output from the condenser HEX 212 (e.g., in the liquid line). The temperature of the refrigerant output from the condenser HEX 212 can be referred to as the liquid line temperature. Although in FIG. 3 An exemplary location of the liquid line temperature sensor 312 is shown, however, the liquid line temperature sensor 312 may also be located at another location where liquid refrigerant is present in the refrigerant path from the condenser HEX 212 to the second evaporator HEX 276 and the first evaporator HEX 268.

[0200] Liquid line pressure sensor 316 measures the pressure of the liquid refrigerant output from condenser HEX 212 (e.g., in the liquid line). The pressure of the refrigerant output from condenser HEX 212 can be referred to as the liquid line pressure. Although in FIG. 3An exemplary location of the liquid line pressure sensor 316 is shown, however, the liquid line pressure sensor 316 may also be located at another location where liquid refrigerant is present in the refrigerant path from the condenser HEX 212 to the second evaporator HEX 276 and the first evaporator HEX 268.

[0201] Suction pressure sensor 320 measures the pressure of the refrigerant input to compressor 204 (e.g., in the suction line). The pressure of the refrigerant input to compressor 204 may be referred to as suction pressure.

[0202] The suction temperature sensor 324 measures the temperature of the refrigerant input to the compressor 204 (e.g., in the suction line). The temperature of the refrigerant input to the compressor 204 may be referred to as the suction temperature.

[0203] The first air temperature sensor 328 measures the air temperature in the drive section 129 of the cooling space 128. For example, the first air temperature sensor 328 can measure the temperature of the air input to the first evaporator HEX 268. The temperature of the air in the drive section 129 can be referred to as the drive section temperature or the first space temperature (space 1temp).

[0204] The second air temperature sensor 332 measures the air temperature in the living section 131 of the cooling space 128. For example, the second air temperature sensor 332 can measure the temperature of the air input to the second evaporator HEX 276. The temperature of the air in the living section 131 can be referred to as the living section temperature or the second space temperature (space 2temp).

[0205] The first evaporator temperature sensor 336 measures the temperature of the first evaporator HEX 268. For example, the first evaporator temperature sensor 336 can measure the temperature of the first evaporator HEX 268 at or near the midpoint of the refrigerant flow through it. The temperature of the first evaporator HEX 268 may be referred to as the first evaporator temperature.

[0206] The second evaporator temperature sensor 340 measures the temperature of the second evaporator HEX 276. For example, the second evaporator temperature sensor 340 can measure the temperature of the second evaporator HEX 276 at or near the midpoint of the refrigerant flow passing through the second evaporator HEX 276. The temperature of the second evaporator HEX 276 may be referred to as the second evaporator temperature.

[0207] The first blower speed input 344 adjusts the first blower speed command of the first blower 280 based on user interaction with one or more user input devices (e.g., actuation, touch, etc.). For example, the first blower speed input 344 may increase or decrease the first blower speed command for the first blower 280 based on user input using one or more user input devices. The second blower speed input 348 adjusts the second blower speed command of the second blower 282 based on user interaction with one or more user input devices (e.g., actuation, touch, etc.). For example, the second blower speed input 348 may increase or decrease the second blower speed command for the second blower 282 based on user input using one or more user input devices. Examples of user input devices include one or more buttons, switches, and / or touchscreen displays.

[0208] HVAC mode sensor 352 indicates the requested HVAC mode for cooling space 128. The HVAC mode can be, for example, hot, A / C, maximum A / C, or off. HVAC mode sensor 352 can indicate the HVAC mode based on user interaction with one or more input devices—such as one or more buttons, switches, and / or touchscreen displays—e.g., actuation, touch, etc. In various implementations, the HVAC mode can be provided by another control module of vehicle 100.

[0209] Battery sensor 356 measures characteristics of the batteries in battery pack 120, such as voltage, current, temperature, and / or state of charge. In various implementations, voltage, current, and / or temperature sensors may be provided with each battery in battery pack 120. Battery sensor 356 can determine the state of charge (SOC) of battery pack 120 based on one or more of the measured parameters.

[0210] One or more power sensors 360 measure the power parameters of driver 256. For example, a voltage sensor may measure the voltage input to driver 256. A current sensor may measure the current flowing to driver 256. A power sensor may measure the power consumption of driver 256. In various implementations, the current sensor and power sensor may be omitted, and driver 256 may determine one or more current and / or power consumption parameters. In various implementations, driver 256 may transmit the power consumption parameters to control module 260. Driver 256 or another module may base its measurement on one or more measured parameters (e.g., the voltage input to driver 256 and the current flowing to driver 256) and / or one or more other parameters (e.g., the current flowing to driver 256 and the resistance of driver 256).

[0211] Driver temperature sensor 364 measures the temperature at a location on driver 256. The temperature of driver 256 may be referred to as driver temperature. In various implementations, driver temperature sensor 364 may be implemented within driver 256, and driver 256 may transmit the driver temperature to control module 260. In various implementations, multiple driver temperature sensors may measure the temperature at different locations on driver 256. In the example of multiple driver temperature sensors, the highest (maximum / hottest) temperature among the measured temperatures may be used as the driver temperature. Communication between driver 256 and control module 260 may be performed, for example, according to the MODBUS or CANBUS protocol.

[0212] The sensors described herein can be analog or digital sensors. In the case of analog sensors, the analog signals generated by the sensor can be sampled and digitized (e.g., via control module 260, driver 256, or another control module) to generate digital values ​​corresponding to the sensor's measurements. In various implementations, vehicle 100 may include a combination of analog and digital sensors. For example, ignition sensor 304 and HVAC mode sensor 352 may be digital sensors. Liquid line pressure sensor 316, intake pressure sensor 320, liquid line temperature sensor 312, intake temperature sensor 324, first evaporator temperature sensor 336, second evaporator temperature sensor 340, first air temperature sensor 328, second air temperature sensor 332, first blower speed input 344, and second blower speed input 348 may be analog sensors / devices.

[0213] As discussed further below, the control module 260 controls the actuators of the air conditioning system 124 based on various measured parameters, indications, set points, and other parameters.

[0214] For example, control module 260 can control the speed of electric motor 216 of compressor 204 via driver 256. Control module 260 can also control condenser fan 220. For example, one or more relays(R) 222 can be connected between battery pack 120 and condenser fan. Although an example of a relay is provided, another suitable type of switching device can also be used. Control module 260 can control the switching of relays 222 to control the speed of condenser fan 220. For example, control module 260 can use pulse width modulation (PWM) or analog (e.g., 0 to 10 or 0 to 5 volt DC) control from relays or an integrated fan control module to control the speed of condenser fan. Increasing the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage applied to the integrated fan control module or relay increases the speed of condenser fan. Conversely, decreasing the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage applied to the integrated fan control module or relay decreases the speed of condenser fan.

[0215] One or more of the condenser fans 220 may be variable speed, and / or one or more of the condenser fans 220 may be constant speed. For example, condenser fans 220 may include one constant speed fan and one variable speed fan. For a constant speed condenser fan, when the fan is on, control module 260 closes the associated relay and keeps the relay closed. For a variable speed fan, control module 260 may determine a speed command and apply a PWM signal or analog voltage to the associated relay or integrated fan control module based on the speed command. Control module 260 may determine the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage to be applied, for example, using a lookup table and an equation relating the speed command to the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage.

[0216] The control module 260 can also control the first evaporator control valve 244. For example, the control module 260 can control the first evaporator control valve 244 to open to allow refrigerant flow through the first evaporator HEX 268 or control the first evaporator control valve 244 to close to prevent refrigerant flow through the first evaporator HEX 268. In the example where the first expansion valve 264 is EXV, the control module 260 can control the opening of the first expansion valve 264.

[0217] The control module 260 can also control the second evaporator control valve 248. For example, the control module 260 can control the second evaporator control valve 248 to open to allow refrigerant flow through the second evaporator HEX 276 or to close to prevent refrigerant fluid flow through the second evaporator HEX 276. In the example where the second expansion valve 272 is EXV, the control module 260 can control the opening of the second expansion valve 272.

[0218] Control module 260 can receive a signal indicating whether HPCO 262 has tripped (open circuit). Control module 260 can take one or more remedial measures when HPCO 262 trips, such as closing one, more, or all of the aforementioned valves and / or closing one, more, or all of the aforementioned fans. When the discharge pressure of compressor 204 is greater than a predetermined pressure, control module 260 can generate an output signal indicating that HPCO 262 has tripped. Control module 260 can activate air conditioning system 124 in response to a drop in discharge pressure below a predetermined pressure after HPCO 262 is shut down. In various implementations, after HPCO 262 is shut down but before activating air conditioning system 124, control module 260 may also need to meet one or more operating conditions.

[0219] The control module 260 can control the speed of the first blower 280 and the second blower 282. The first blower 280 and the second blower 282 are variable speed blowers, and the control module 260 can determine a first speed command and a second speed command for the first blower 280 and the second blower 282, and control the application of electricity to the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 respectively based on the first speed command and the second speed command.

[0220] FIG. 5 This is a functional block diagram of an example implementation of control module 260. Control module 260 may include a blower speed module 404 for controlling the speed of the first blower 280 and the second blower 282. Generally, as the blower speed increases, the cooling provided by the blower also increases, and as the cooling provided by the blower increases, the blower speed also increases.

[0221] The blower speed module 404 controls the speeds of the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 based on first and second blower speed commands for the first blower 280 and the second blower 282, respectively. For example, based on the first and second blower speed commands, the blower speed module 404 can generate corresponding power from the power output of the battery pack 120 for the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 and apply the corresponding power to the first blower 280 and the second blower 282.

[0222] Valve control module 408 controls the actuation of the first evaporator control valve 244 and the second evaporator control valve 248. More specifically, valve control module 408 opens and closes the first evaporator control valve 244, and opens and closes the second evaporator control valve 248. Valve control module 408 determines whether to open or close the first evaporator control valve 244 and whether to open or close the second evaporator control valve 248, as further discussed below.

[0223] The baffle control module 412 controls the actuation of the baffle door 284. More specifically, the baffle control module 412 opens and closes the baffle door 284. The baffle control module 412 determines whether to open or close the baffle door 284, as further discussed below.

[0224] The condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. Specifically, the output of the compressor 204 increases as the speed of the electric motor 216 increases, and the speed of the electric motor 216 increases as the output of the compressor 204 increases. The condenser control module 416 sets the compressor speed command, as further discussed below. Based on the compressor speed command, the driver 256 generates AC power from the power output of the battery pack 120 and applies the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204. In various implementations, the compressor control module 416 may generate AC power based on the compressor speed command and apply that AC power to the electric motor 216.

[0225] The condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the electric motor of the condenser fan 220 based on the condenser fan speed command. Specifically, the airflow through the condenser HEX 212 increases with the increase of the speed of the electric motor of the condenser fan 220, and the speed of the electric motor of the condenser fan 220 increases with the increase of the airflow through the condenser HEX 212. The condenser control module 416 sets the condenser fan speed command. The condenser control module 416 controls the switching of the relay 222 (and thus controls the application of power) based on the condenser fan speed command. For example, for a constant-speed condenser fan, the condenser control module 416 can keep the associated relay closed when the condenser fan speed command is greater than zero, and open the associated relay when the condenser fan speed command is zero. For a variable-speed condenser fan, the condenser control module 416 can use a PWM signal (or analog voltage) with an on-time set based on the condenser fan speed command to switch the associated relay on and off. The condenser control module 416 can increase the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage when the condenser fan speed command increases, and the condenser speed command can be increased when the condenser control module 416 increases the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage.

[0226] The condenser control module 416 sets the compressor speed command based on a mathematical function of the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value. For example, the condenser control module 416 can set the compressor speed command based on the mathematical product of the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value (i.e., compressor speed command = initial compressor speed command * adjustment value). In this example, the adjustment value can be a value between 0.0 (corresponding to 0%) and 1.0 (corresponding to 100%). However, values ​​greater than 1.0 can also be used. Although the example of multiplying the initial compressor speed command by the adjustment value will be discussed herein, another suitable mathematical function, such as the sum of the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value, can also be used.

[0227] FIG. 6 This includes a flowchart depicting an example method for controlling the speed of compressor 204 to reduce speed while maximizing the efficiency of air conditioning system 124 and preventing freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. Control begins at 504, where condenser control module 416 determines whether engine 104 is on (e.g., whether the ignition system is on), whether the first blower 280 is on (e.g., whether the first blower speed command is greater than zero), whether the HVAC mode has been switched to A / C mode (e.g., A / C or maximum A / C), and whether the first evaporator temperature is greater than the maximum temperature within a predetermined temperature range. In these cases, cooling drive section 129 is likely required first. Cooling of living section 131 may be secondary.

[0228] The predetermined temperature range is defined by a minimum temperature and a maximum temperature. The minimum temperature can be a predetermined amount less than the predetermined setpoint temperature, and the maximum temperature can be a predetermined amount greater than the predetermined setpoint temperature.

[0229] The preset setpoint temperature can be calibrated and set to a temperature greater than the freezing point of water. For example, the preset setpoint temperature can be set to 36 degrees Fahrenheit or another suitable temperature greater than the freezing point of water.

[0230] The preset amount can be calibrated and set to be less than the difference between the preset setpoint temperature and the freezing point temperature of water, such that the minimum temperature is also greater than the freezing point temperature of water. By way of example only, the preset amount could be 2 degrees Fahrenheit or another suitable amount. In various implementations, the minimum and maximum temperatures may not be centered relative to the preset setpoint temperature.

[0231] If 504 is false, control can terminate. Although control is indicated and discussed as terminated, control can return to 504. If 504 is true, at 508, the condenser control module 416 sets the initial compressor speed command to a first predetermined maximum speed of the compressor 204. The first predetermined maximum speed can be calibrated and can be set to the maximum speed of the compressor 204 used when the engine 104 is on. By way of example only, the first predetermined maximum speed could be approximately 7000 revolutions per minute (RPM) or another suitable speed. Also at 508, the valve control module 408 opens the first evaporator control valve 244 and the second evaporator control valve 248. In various implementations, the valve control module 408 may open the first evaporator control valve 244 and the second evaporator control valve 248 before the condenser control module 416 opens the compressor 204. The compressor 204 operates at a first predetermined maximum speed to cool the first evaporator HEX 268 and the second evaporator HEX 276 as quickly as possible (and thus to cool the drive section 129 and living section 129 as quickly as possible). Because the motor 104 is on, the battery pack 120 can be charged to power the air conditioning system 124 while drawing power from it. Control continues at 512.

[0232] At 512, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is less than the minimum temperature of the predetermined temperature range.

[0233] If 512 is true, the reduction is complete, valve control module 408 can close the second evaporator control valve 248, and control transfers to 528, which will be discussed further below. In various implementations, valve control module 408 can keep the second evaporator control valve 248 open. If 512 is false, control continues at 516. At 516, condenser control module 416 determines the adjustment value based on at least one of discharge pressure, compressor 204 power consumption, and suction pressure. For example, condenser control module 416 can determine the adjustment value using either a lookup table or an equation relating discharge pressure to the adjustment value.

[0234] FIG. 7 The example diagram includes the adjustment value as a function of discharge pressure. Specifically, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value when the discharge pressure is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum discharge pressure. The condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.75) when the discharge pressure is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum discharge pressure. As the discharge pressure increases between the predetermined minimum and maximum discharge pressures, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the adjustment value towards the predetermined minimum value. The predetermined maximum value can be calibrated and can be set to 1.0 in the example where the initial compressor speed command is multiplied by the adjustment value.

[0235] By adding to or replacing the use of discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can determine the regulation value using either a lookup table or an equation that correlates power consumption (e.g., in watts (W) or kW) with the regulation value. FIG. 8 The example diagram includes an adjustment value as a function of power consumption. Specifically, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value when the power consumption is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum power consumption. The condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.9) when the power consumption is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum power consumption. As the power consumption increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the adjustment value toward the predetermined minimum value. In this example, the predetermined minimum value may be less than a predetermined minimum value associated with the discharge pressure.

[0236] In addition to or instead of using discharge pressure and / or power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can determine the regulation value using either a lookup table or an equation that correlates the suction pressure with the regulation value. Examples involving the use of suction pressure will be discussed further below.

[0237] In various implementations, the condenser control module 416 can determine the adjustment value based on two or all of the discharge pressure, power consumption, and suction pressure. For example, the condenser control module 416 can determine a first adjustment value based on the discharge pressure, as discussed above. The condenser control module 416 can also determine a second adjustment value based on the power consumption, as discussed above. The condenser control module 416 can also determine a third adjustment value based on the suction pressure, as discussed above. The condenser control module 416 can determine the adjustment value based on the first, second, and third adjustment values. For example, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value based on the smaller of the first, second, and third adjustment values, or set the adjustment value to be equal to the smaller of the three values.

[0238] The condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value. For example, the condenser control module 416 can set the compressor speed command based on the product of the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value, or set the compressor speed command to be equal to the product of the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value.

[0239] At point 520, the condenser control module 416 can determine the condenser fan speed command. The condenser control module 416 can determine the condenser fan speed command, for example, using a lookup table or an equation that correlates at least one of the discharge pressure, power consumption, and compressor speed with the condenser fan speed command. In various implementations, point 520 can be omitted, and the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to a predetermined speed.

[0240] At 524, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command and the speed of the condenser fan 220 based on the condenser fan speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output from the battery pack 120 and apply this AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 towards or to match the compressor speed command. The condenser control module 416 also determines the on-time of the PWM signal or analog voltage based on the condenser fan speed command and uses the PWM signal or analog voltage to switch the associated relay or integrated fan control module of the variable-speed condenser fan. If the condenser fan speed command is greater than zero, the condenser control module 416 can turn off the associated relay of the constant-speed condenser fan. Control returns to 512. The blower speed module 404 also controls the speeds of the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 respectively based on the first blower speed command and the second blower speed command for the first blower 280 and the second blower 282. For example, based on the first blower speed command and the second blower speed command, the blower speed module 404 can generate corresponding power from the power output of the battery pack 120 for the first blower 280 and the second blower 282 and apply the corresponding power to the first blower 280 and the second blower 282.

[0241] At 528, control module 260 controls one or more actuators of air conditioning system 124 to maintain the first evaporator temperature at approximately a predetermined temperature setpoint. This prevents freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. For example, as further discussed below, condenser control module 416 may control the speed of compressor 204 based on the first evaporator temperature and / or suction pressure to maintain the first evaporator temperature at approximately a predetermined temperature setpoint. Additionally or alternatively, condenser control module 416 may control the speed of condenser fan 220 to maintain the first evaporator temperature at approximately a predetermined temperature setpoint. Additionally or alternatively, valve control module 408 may control the opening / closing of the first evaporator control valve 244 and / or the second evaporator control valve 248 to maintain the first evaporator temperature at approximately a predetermined temperature setpoint. When implemented, valve control module 408 may additionally or alternatively control the actuation of the first expansion valve 264 and / or the second expansion valve 272 to maintain the first evaporator temperature at approximately a predetermined temperature setpoint.

[0242] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B The flowchart illustrates an example method that controls the speed of compressor 204 based on the first evaporator temperature to reduce speed and prevent freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. As described above, control begins at 504 and 508. Control continues at 612.

[0243] At 612, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is greater than the maximum temperature within a predetermined temperature range. If 612 is false, control transfers to 624, which will be discussed further below. If 612 is true, control continues at 616.

[0244] The first comparison module 420 can compare the temperature of the first evaporator with the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature of a predetermined temperature range. The first comparison module 420 can generate a signal indicating whether the temperature of the first evaporator is greater than the maximum temperature, less than the minimum temperature, or between the minimum and maximum temperatures.

[0245] At point 616, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value. As described above, the condenser control module 416 sets the compressor speed command based on the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value. The condenser control module 416 also resets the timer value tracked by the timer module 424. The condenser control module 416 can reset the timer value to, for example, zero.

[0246] At 620, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command. Control returns to 612.

[0247] At 624, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is between the minimum and maximum temperatures within a predetermined temperature range. If 624 is true, control continues at 628. If 624 is false, control can transfer to 632. At 628, the condenser control module 416 determines an adjustment value based on the suction pressure and resets the timer value. Control then continues at 620.

[0248] For example, the condenser control module 416 can determine the adjustment value using either a lookup table or a formula that associates the suction pressure with the adjustment value. FIG. 10 The diagram includes an example of an adjustment value as a function of the evaporator temperature. Generally, when the first evaporator temperature is greater than or equal to the maximum temperature within a predetermined temperature range, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to the predetermined maximum value. When the first evaporator temperature is less than or equal to the minimum temperature within the predetermined temperature range, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.8). As the first evaporator temperature increases between the minimum and maximum temperatures, the condenser control module 416 can increase the adjustment value towards the predetermined maximum value.

[0249] Refer again FIG. 9A At 632 (when the first evaporator temperature is less than the minimum temperature of the predetermined temperature range), the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the timer value is greater than a first predetermined timer value. The first predetermined timer value corresponds to a predetermined time period. The first predetermined timer value can be calibrated and can be set to, for example, correspond to approximately 30 seconds or another suitable value. If 632 is false, the condenser control module 416 holds the adjustment value at 636 (i.e., keeps the adjustment value unchanged relative to its previous value) and increments the timer by a predetermined increment. Control then continues at 620. At this point, the timer value therefore corresponds to the time period since the first evaporator temperature became less than the minimum temperature of the predetermined temperature range. If 632 is true, control transfers to... FIG. 9B 640.

[0250] At 640, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a first predetermined adjustment value, which is less than a predetermined minimum value used when the suction pressure is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum suction pressure. For example, in an example where the predetermined minimum value is 0.8, the first predetermined adjustment value could be 0.75 or another suitable value that is less than the predetermined minimum value and greater than 0.0. As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value. The condenser control module 416 also resets the timer value at 640.

[0251] At 644, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command.

[0252] At 648, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than the minimum temperature of a predetermined temperature range. If 648 is false, the condenser control module 416 can reset the timer value, and control can return to 612. If 648 is true, control can continue at 652.

[0253] The condenser control module 416 holds the adjustment value at 652 (i.e., keeps the adjustment value unchanged relative to its previous value) and increments the timer value by a predetermined increment. Control then continues at 654. At this point, the timer value therefore corresponds to the period when the adjustment value is set to the first predetermined adjustment value (because the first evaporator temperature is less than the lowest temperature in the predetermined temperature range).

[0254] At 654, the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the timer value is greater than a second predetermined timer value. The second predetermined timer value corresponds to a second predetermined time period. The second predetermined timer value can be calibrated and can be set to, for example, correspond to approximately 1 minute or another suitable value. If 654 is false, control returns to 644 to continue controlling the compressor speed based on a first predetermined adjustment value. If 654 is true, control continues at 656.

[0255] At 656, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a predetermined compressor stop value. Based on the adjustment value being set to the predetermined compressor stop value, the condenser control module 416 sets the compressor speed command to 0. When the compressor speed command is 0, the drive 256 does not apply power to the electric motor 216, thereby stopping the rotation of the electric motor 216 and the compressor 204. The condenser control module 416 then disables the compressor 204 to prevent freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. In the example where the compressor speed command is set to the initial compressor speed command multiplied by the adjustment value, the predetermined compressor stop value is 0.0. Control can continue at 660.

[0256] At 660, the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the temperature of the first evaporator is greater than or equal to a predetermined setpoint temperature. If 660 is true, the condenser control module 416 maintains the adjustment value at 664 at the predetermined compressor stop value. This keeps the compressor 204 stopped. Control returns to 660. In this way, the condenser control module 416 disables the compressor 204 until the temperature of the first evaporator rises to prevent freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. If 660 is true, the condenser control module 416 can reset the timer value, and control can return to 612.

[0257] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B The document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method that controls the speed of compressor 204 based on the first evaporator temperature and suction pressure to reduce speed and prevent freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268. As described above, control begins at 504 and 508. Control continues at 704.

[0258] At 704, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than the minimum temperature of a predetermined temperature range. If 704 is true, control transfers to 716, which will be discussed further below. If 704 is false, control continues at 708.

[0259] At 708, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). The condenser control module 416 can also reset the timer value at 708. As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the adjustment value and the initial compressor speed command. At 712, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power from the power output from the battery pack 120 for the electric motor 216 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or regulate the compressor speed command. Control returns to 704.

[0260] At 716, the condenser control module 416 obtains the suction pressure (the current value of the suction pressure) and sets a predetermined setpoint suction pressure based on the suction pressure, or sets the predetermined setpoint suction pressure to be equal to the suction pressure. The condenser control module 416 also determines a predetermined minimum suction pressure and a predetermined maximum suction pressure at 716. For example, the condenser control module 416 can set the predetermined minimum suction pressure based on the predetermined setpoint suction pressure minus a second predetermined amount, or set the predetermined minimum suction pressure to be equal to the predetermined setpoint suction pressure minus a second predetermined amount. The condenser control module 416 can set the predetermined maximum suction pressure based on the predetermined setpoint suction pressure plus a second predetermined amount, or set the predetermined maximum suction pressure to be equal to the predetermined setpoint suction pressure plus a second predetermined amount. The condenser control module 416 also resets the timer value at 716.

[0261] At 720, the condenser control module 416 determines the adjustment value based on the suction pressure. For example, the condenser control module 416 may use either a lookup table or a formula that associates the suction pressure with the adjustment value to determine the adjustment value. The condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value.

[0262] FIG. 12 The diagram includes an example of the adjustment value as a function of the suction pressure. Generally, when the suction pressure is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum suction pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value. When the suction pressure is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum suction pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.8). As the suction pressure increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum suction pressures, the condenser control module 416 can increase the adjustment value toward the predetermined maximum value.

[0263] The predetermined minimum and maximum inhalation pressures define a predetermined inhalation pressure range. By way of example only, the second predetermined amount may be calibrable and may be, for example, about 1 psig to 5 psig or another suitable amount. In various embodiments, the predetermined minimum and maximum inhalation pressures may not be centered relative to the predetermined setpoint inhalation pressure.

[0264] Refer again FIG. 11A At 724, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command.

[0265] At 728, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the temperature of the first evaporator is lower than the minimum temperature of the predetermined temperature range. If 728 is false, control can return to 708. If 728 is true, control can continue at 732.

[0266] At 732, the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the timer value is greater than a first predetermined timer value. The first predetermined timer value corresponds to a predetermined time period. The first predetermined timer value can be calibrated and can be set to, for example, correspond to approximately 30 seconds or another suitable value. If 732 is false, the condenser control module 416 increments the timer value by a predetermined increment at 736, and control returns to 720. At this point, the timer value therefore corresponds to the period during which the first evaporator temperature is less than the minimum temperature within a predetermined temperature range during the period when the adjustment value is determined using the suction pressure. If 732 is true, control continues from 640 to 664, as described above. FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B As discussed in the examples. In FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B In the example, the control returns from 648 and 660 to 720. Setting the adjustment value to a first predetermined adjustment value (e.g., at 640) and disabling the compressor 204 (e.g., at 656) prevents freezing at the first evaporator HEX 268.

[0267] In various implementations, the vehicle may also include a humidity sensor that measures the humidity of the air within the cooling space 128. The control module 260 may adjust one or more operating parameters based on humidity. For example, in conjunction with the antifreeze example, the control module 260 may adjust the speed of the compressor 204 and / or the blower speed based on humidity. Generally, to help prevent the evaporator HEX from freezing, the control module 260 may reduce the speed of the compressor 204 when humidity increases and increase the speed of the compressor 204 when humidity decreases. Additionally or alternatively, to help prevent the evaporator HEX from freezing, the control module 260 may increase the blower speed associated with the evaporator HEX when humidity increases and decrease the blower speed associated with the evaporator HEX when humidity decreases.

[0268] FIG. 13 The document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling the speed of compressor 204 based on discharge pressure to limit the power consumption of air conditioning system 124, maximize the efficiency of air conditioning system 124, and improve the comfort of drive unit 129. As described above, control begins at 504 to 508.

[0269] At point 804, the condenser control module 416 determines the adjustment value based on the discharge pressure. For example, the condenser control module 416 may use either a lookup table or a formula that associates the discharge pressure with the adjustment value to determine the adjustment value. As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the adjustment value and the initial compressor speed command.

[0270] As mentioned above, FIG. 7 The diagram includes an example of an adjustment value as a function of discharge pressure. Generally, when the discharge pressure is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). When the discharge pressure is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.75). As the discharge pressure increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum discharge pressures, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the adjustment value towards the predetermined minimum value.

[0271] At 808, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command. Control can then return to 804.

[0272] The power consumption of the air conditioning system 124 is limited by controlling the speed of the compressor 204 based on the discharge pressure, thereby reducing the speed of the compressor 204 as the discharge pressure increases. At a given speed, the power consumption of the air conditioning system 124 increases with increasing discharge pressure. Reducing power consumption increases the efficiency of the air conditioning system 124 and improves the comfort of the drive unit 129 by preventing the compressor 204 from being cyclically turned off and on.

[0273] FIG. 14 The flowchart illustrates an example method that controls the speed of compressor 204 based on the power consumption of air conditioning system 124 to maximize the efficiency of air conditioning system 124, limit the power consumption of air conditioning system 124, and improve the comfort of drive unit 129. As described above, control begins at 504 to 508.

[0274] At 904, the condenser control module 416 determines the adjustment value based on the power consumption of the air conditioning system 124. For example, the condenser control module 416 may use one of a lookup table or formula that associates power consumption with the adjustment value to determine the adjustment value. As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the adjustment value and the initial compressor speed command.

[0275] As mentioned above, FIG. 8 The diagram includes an example of an adjustment value as a function of power consumption. Generally, when power consumption is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). When power consumption is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.9). As power consumption increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the adjustment value towards the predetermined minimum value.

[0276] At 908, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command. Control can then return to 904.

[0277] The speed of compressor 204, controlled by the power consumption of air conditioning system 124, can be improved by reducing the speed of compressor 204 as power consumption increases. Reducing power consumption can also improve the comfort of drive unit 129 by preventing compressor 204 from being cyclically turned on and off.

[0278] FIG. 15 The document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling the speed of compressor 204 and condenser fan 220 to limit the power consumption of air conditioning system 124, maximize efficiency, and improve the comfort of drive unit 129. As described above, control begins at points 504 to 508.

[0279] At position 1004, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command. The condenser control module 416 can base its command on a first evaporator temperature (e.g., at...). FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B In the example), based on the first evaporator temperature and suction pressure (e.g., in... FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B In the example), based on the discharge pressure (e.g., in FIG. 13 (in the example) or based on power consumption (e.g., inFIG. 14 (In the example) to determine the compressor speed command.

[0280] At 1008, the condenser control module 416 determines the condenser fan speed command based on at least one of power consumption, discharge pressure, and compressor speed (e.g., compressor speed command). The condenser control module 416 may determine the condenser fan speed using at least one of a lookup table and a formula that associates at least one of power consumption, discharge pressure, and compressor speed with the condenser fan speed command.

[0281] FIG. 16 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of power consumption when engine 104 is on. Generally, when engine 104 is on, if power consumption is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined minimum speed. If power consumption is less than or equal to the predetermined minimum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to a predetermined maximum speed. As power consumption increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the condenser fan speed command.

[0282] FIG. 17 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of the discharge pressure when the engine 104 is open. Generally, when the engine 104 is open, if the discharge pressure is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined minimum speed. If the discharge pressure is less than or equal to the predetermined minimum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined maximum speed. As the discharge pressure increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum discharge pressures, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the condenser fan speed command.

[0283] FIG. 18 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of the compressor speed when the engine 104 is on. Generally, when the engine 104 is on, if the compressor speed is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum compressor speed, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to the predetermined maximum speed. If the compressor speed is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum compressor speed, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to the predetermined minimum speed. As the compressor speed increases between the predetermined minimum compressor speed and the predetermined maximum compressor speed, the condenser control module 416 can increase the condenser fan speed command.

[0284] The condenser control module 416 can, for example, determine a first possible condenser fan speed command based on power consumption, a second possible condenser fan speed command based on discharge pressure, and a third possible condenser fan speed command based on compressor speed. In this example, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to the highest (maximum) of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands. Selecting the highest of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands can be protective. Alternatively, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to the lowest (minimum) of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands. Selecting the lowest of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands can minimize the power consumption of the condenser fan 220.

[0285] In various implementations, the condenser control module 416 may additionally or alternatively determine the condenser fan speed command based on the intake pressure and / or the second blower speed. For example, when the engine 104 is open, the condenser control module 416 may decrease the condenser fan speed command as the intake pressure decreases and / or as the second blower speed decreases. The condenser control module 416 may increase the condenser fan speed command as the intake pressure increases and / or as the second blower speed increases.

[0286] At 1012, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of compressor 204 based on compressor speed commands and the speed of condenser fan 220 based on condenser fan speed commands. More specifically, driver 256 can generate AC power for electric motor 216 from power output from battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to electric motor 216 of compressor 204 to adjust the speed of electric motor 216 toward or to the compressor speed command. The condenser control module 416 also controls the switching of relay 222 based on condenser fan speed commands to control the power applied to condenser fan 220. Control returns to 1004.

[0287] FIG. 6 , FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B and FIG. 13 to FIG. 15The example is shown and described based on the condition 504 being met. If engine 104 is off, or the HVAC mode is switched to off or heating, or the first blower 280 is off, the condenser control module 416 can shut down compressor 204, and control can end.

[0288] FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B The document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method that controls the speed of compressor 204 to manage the charging of battery pack 120 for as long as possible when engine 104 is off. When engine 104 is off, power source 112 cannot charge battery pack 120. The air conditioning system 124 draws power from battery pack 120 for operation.

[0289] Control begins at 1104, where the condenser control module 416 determines whether the engine 104 is off (e.g., the ignition system is off), the second blower 282 is on (e.g., the second blower speed command is greater than zero), and the HVAC mode has been switched to A / C mode (e.g., A / C or maximum A / C). In these cases, cooling of the living section 131 is likely required first. If 1104 is true, control continues at 1108. If 1104 is false, control may terminate. When control is indicated and discussed as terminated, control may return to 1104.

[0290] At 1108, the condenser control module 416 sets the initial compressor speed command to a second predetermined maximum speed of compressor 204. This second predetermined maximum speed may be calibrable, set to the maximum speed of compressor 204 for use when engine 104 is off, and is less than the first predetermined maximum speed discussed above but greater than 0. For example only, the second predetermined maximum speed could be approximately 2000 RPM, 1400 RPM, or another suitable speed. Also at 1108, the valve control module 408 closes the first evaporator control valve 244 and opens the second evaporator control valve 248. Operating compressor 204 at the second predetermined maximum speed with the second evaporator control valve 248 open cools the second evaporator HEX 276 (and thus the living section 131). The condenser control module 416 also sets a regulating value at 1108 to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the regulating value and the initial compressor speed command. The condenser control module 416 also resets the timer value at 1108. Control continues at 1112.

[0291] At 1112, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command.

[0292] At 1116, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the timer value is greater than a third predetermined value. The third predetermined timer value corresponds to a predetermined time period. The third predetermined timer value can be calibrated and can be set, for example, to correspond to approximately 1 minute or another suitable value sufficient to allow the current to reach a steady state. If 1116 is false, the condenser control module 416 increments the timer by a predetermined increment at 1120, and control returns to 1112 to continue operating the compressor 204 based on a second predetermined maximum speed. If 1116 is true, control continues at 1124.

[0293] At 1124, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor current (the current value of the compressor current). At 1128, the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the compressor current is greater than a predetermined current. If 1128 is true, then under the current operating conditions, the expected load on the battery pack 120 of the air conditioning system 124 may be relatively high, and control can be initiated at 1144 (…). FIG. 19B Continuing, this will be discussed further below. If 1128 is false, then under current operating conditions, the expected load of the air conditioning system 124 on the battery pack 120 may be relatively low, and control can be transferred to 1132. The predetermined current can be calibrated and can be set based on the ampere-hour rating of the battery pack 120.

[0294] Second comparison module 428 FIG. 5 The compressor current can be compared with a predetermined current. The second comparison module 428 can generate a signal indicating whether the compressor current is greater than the predetermined current.

[0295] At 1132, the condenser control module 416 determines the adjustment value based on the second space temperature. The condenser control module 416 may determine the adjustment value, for example, using a lookup table and formula that associates the second space temperature with the adjustment value. As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the initial compressor speed command and the adjustment value.

[0296] FIG. 20The diagram includes an example of an adjustment value as a function of the second space temperature. Generally, when the engine 104 is off, and the second space temperature equals a predetermined maximum second space temperature, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). When the second space temperature equals a predetermined minimum second space temperature, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to a predetermined minimum value (e.g., 0.33). As the second space temperature increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum second space temperatures, the condenser control module 416 can increase the adjustment value toward the predetermined maximum value.

[0297] Return to reference FIG. 19A The condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 at 1136 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or to the compressor speed command.

[0298] At 1140, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the voltage of the battery pack 120 is less than a predetermined voltage. The predetermined voltage can be calibrated and is set to be less than the rated voltage of the battery pack 120, for example, set to approximately 46V or another suitable voltage. If 1140 is true, control transitions to 1144. FIG. 19B If 1140 is false, control returns to 1132.

[0299] Third comparison module 432 FIG. 5 The voltage of the battery pack 120 can be compared with a predetermined voltage. The third comparison module 432 can generate a signal indicating whether the voltage is less than the predetermined voltage.

[0300] In 1144 ( FIG. 19B At point 1144, the condenser control module 416 sets the initial compressor speed command to a third predetermined maximum speed of compressor 204. This third predetermined maximum speed can be calibrated and is less than the second predetermined maximum speed discussed above but greater than 0. For example only, the third predetermined maximum speed could be approximately 1400 RPM or another suitable speed. Also at point 1144, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a predetermined maximum value (e.g., 1.0). As described above, the condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command based on the adjustment value and the initial compressor speed command.

[0301] At 1148, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of the compressor 204 based on the compressor speed command. More specifically, the driver 256 can generate AC power for the electric motor 216 from the power output of the battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to the electric motor 216 of the compressor 204 to adjust the speed of the electric motor 216 toward or regulate the compressor speed command.

[0302] At 1152, the condenser control module 416 determines whether the second space temperature is less than the minimum temperature of the second predetermined temperature range. If 1152 is false, the condenser control module 416 maintains the adjustment value at 1156 and controls the return to 1148 to continue operating the compressor 204 at the third predetermined maximum speed. If 1152 is true, control continues to 1160. In this way, the condenser control module 416 cools the living section 131 until the temperature within the living section 131 (represented by the second space temperature) is less than the minimum temperature of the second predetermined temperature range.

[0303] The second predetermined temperature range is defined by a minimum temperature and a maximum temperature. The minimum temperature can be a third predetermined amount that is less than the second predetermined setpoint temperature, and the maximum temperature can be a third predetermined amount that is greater than the second predetermined setpoint temperature.

[0304] The second predetermined setpoint temperature can be set, for example, based on user input regarding the desired temperature in the living section 131. The user can adjust (raise and lower) the desired temperature by interacting with one or more user input devices.

[0305] The third predetermined value can be calibrated. For example, the third predetermined value could be 4 degrees Fahrenheit or another suitable value. In various implementations, the minimum and maximum temperatures may not be centered relative to the second predetermined setpoint temperature.

[0306] At 1160, the condenser control module 416 sets the adjustment value to a predetermined compressor stop value (e.g., 0.0). Based on the adjustment value being set to the predetermined compressor stop value, the condenser control module 416 sets the compressor speed command to 0. When the compressor speed command is 0, the drive 256 does not apply power to the electric motor 216, thereby stopping the rotation of the electric motor 216 and the compressor 204. The condenser control module 416 then disables the compressor 204 to stop power consumption from the battery pack 120.

[0307] At 1164, the condenser control module 416 can determine whether the second space temperature is greater than or equal to the maximum temperature of the second predetermined temperature range. If 1164 is false, the condenser control module 416 maintains the adjustment value at the predetermined compressor stop value at 1172. This keeps the compressor 204 stopped. Control returns to 1164. In this way, the condenser control module 416 disables the compressor 204 until the second space temperature increases above the second predetermined temperature range to minimize power consumption from the battery pack 120. If 1164 is true, the condenser control module 416 can set the adjustment value to 1 at 1168 to resume operation of the compressor 204 at a third predetermined maximum speed. Control returns to 1148 to cool the second space temperature again to a minimum temperature below the second predetermined temperature range.

[0308] FIG. 21 The document includes a flowchart illustrating an example method that controls the speed of compressor 204 to manage the charging of battery pack 120 when engine 104 is off. When engine 104 is off, power supply 112 cannot charge battery pack 120. The air conditioning system 124 draws power from battery pack 120 for operation.

[0309] Control begins at 1104, where the condenser control module 416 determines whether the engine 104 is off (e.g., the ignition system is off), the second blower 282 is on (e.g., the second blower speed command is greater than zero), and the HVAC mode has been switched to A / C mode (e.g., A / C or maximum A / C). In these cases, cooling of the living section 131 is likely required first. If 1104 is true, control continues at 1180. If 1104 is false, control may terminate. When control is indicated and discussed as terminated, control may return to 1104.

[0310] At 1180, valve control module 408 closes the first evaporator control valve 244 and opens the second evaporator control valve 248. Control continues at 1184. Condenser control module 416 determines the compressor speed command at 1184. Condenser control module 416 can, for example, be combined as described above. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B The compressor speed command is determined as described in the example. At 1188, the condenser control module 416 determines the condenser fan speed command.

[0311] The condenser control module 416 determines the condenser fan speed command based on at least one of power consumption, discharge pressure, and compressor speed (e.g., compressor speed command). The condenser control module 416 may determine the condenser fan speed using at least one of a lookup table and a formula that associates at least one of power consumption, discharge pressure, and compressor speed with the condenser fan speed command.

[0312] FIG. 22 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of power consumption when engine 104 is off. Generally, when engine 104 is off, if power consumption is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined maximum speed. When power consumption is greater than or equal to the predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to a predetermined minimum speed. As power consumption increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum power consumption, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the condenser fan speed command.

[0313] FIG. 23 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of discharge pressure when engine 104 is off. Generally, when engine 104 is off, if the discharge pressure is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined maximum speed. If the discharge pressure is greater than or equal to the predetermined maximum discharge pressure, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined minimum speed. As the discharge pressure increases between the predetermined minimum and predetermined maximum discharge pressures, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the condenser fan speed command.

[0314] FIG. 24 This includes an example diagram of the condenser fan speed command as a function of the compressor speed when the engine 104 is off. Generally, when the engine 104 is off, if the compressor speed is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum compressor speed, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined maximum speed. If the compressor speed is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum compressor speed, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command towards or to a predetermined minimum speed. When the compressor speed increases, the condenser control module 416 can decrease the condenser fan speed command.

[0315] The condenser control module 416 can, for example, determine a first possible condenser fan speed command based on power consumption, a second possible condenser fan speed command based on discharge pressure, and a third possible condenser fan speed command based on compressor speed. In this example, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to the highest (maximum) of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands. Selecting the highest of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands can be protective. Alternatively, the condenser control module 416 can set the condenser fan speed command to the lowest (minimum) of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands. Selecting the lowest of the first, second, and third possible condenser fan speed commands can minimize the power consumption of the condenser fan 220.

[0316] In various implementations, the condenser control module 416 may additionally or alternatively determine the condenser fan speed command based on the intake pressure and / or the second blower speed. For example, when the engine 104 is off, the condenser control module 416 may decrease the condenser fan speed command as the intake pressure increases and / or as the second blower speed decreases. The condenser control module 416 may increase the condenser fan speed command as the intake pressure decreases and / or as the second blower speed increases. In various implementations, the determination of the condenser fan speed command based on the discharge pressure when the engine 104 is off can be omitted.

[0317] At 1192, the condenser control module 416 controls the speed of compressor 204 based on compressor speed commands and the speed of condenser fan 220 based on condenser fan speed commands. More specifically, driver 256 can generate AC power for electric motor 216 from power output from battery pack 120 and apply the AC power to electric motor 216 of compressor 204 to adjust the speed of electric motor 216 toward or modulate the compressor speed command. The condenser control module 416 also controls the switching of relay 222 based on condenser fan speed commands. Control returns to 1180.

[0318] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B and FIG. 21 The example is shown and described based on the condition that 1104 remains met. If engine 104 is on, or HVAC mode is switched off or heated, or second blower 282 is off, condenser control module 416 can shut down compressor 204, and control can end.

[0319] FIG. 25 Includes a flowchart describing the following example method: This example method controls a baffle door 284 for cooling a driver 256. FIG. 26A The following figure is included: This figure includes an example implementation of a baffle door 284, a second HVAC duct 278, and airflow that can be used for cooling the drive 256.

[0320] Control can begin at 1204, where the baffle control module 412 determines whether the compressor 204 is open. For example, the baffle control module 412 can determine whether the compressor speed command is greater than zero. The baffle control module 412 can also determine at 1204 whether the second blower 282 is open. As described above, when the second blower 282 is open, the valve control module 408 opens the second evaporator control valve 248 before the compressor 204 is open. If 1204 is false (i.e., one or more of the above items are false), the baffle control module 412 can close the baffle door 284 at 1208, and control can return to 1204. In various implementations, the baffle door 284 can close normally (e.g., via a spring, etc.). If 1204 is true, control continues at 1210.

[0321] At 1210, the baffle control module 412 can determine at 1204 whether the HVAC mode is not set to heating mode. If 1210 is true, the baffle control module 412 can close the baffle door 284 at 1208, and control can return to 1204. If 1210 is false, control continues at 1212.

[0322] At 1212, the baffle control module 412 determines whether the driver temperature is greater than a predetermined driver temperature. If 1212 is false, control transfers to 1208, and if the baffle door 284 is not already closed, the baffle control module 412 can close the baffle door 284. If 1212 is true, control continues at 1216. The predetermined temperature can be calibrated and can be a fixed value. Fourth comparison module 436 ( FIG. 5 The driver temperature can be compared with a predetermined driver temperature. The fourth comparison module 436 can generate a signal indicating whether the driver temperature is greater than the predetermined driver temperature.

[0323] At 1216, when the driver temperature exceeds a predetermined driver temperature, the baffle control module 412 opens the baffle door 284. Opening the baffle door 284, for example, to a fixed or proportional percentage allows cool air to flow from the second HVAC duct 278 to the driver 256 and cool the driver 256. Generally, when the driver temperature is cooler, the efficiency of the driver 256 increases. The cooler driver temperature also increases the reliability and lifespan of the driver 256 and its components. Opening the baffle door 284 when the driver temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature also allows for the use of lower-cost components (i.e., components with lower operating temperature ratings) in the driver 256. This can reduce the overall cost of the driver 256. Control can then return to 1204 after 1216.

[0324] FIG. 26B The following figure illustrates an example implementation of a drive fan 1304, which is configured to draw air from a passenger compartment (e.g., 131 and / or 129) and push the air through a drive unit 256 to cool the drive unit 256. For example, the drive fan 1304 may be mounted to a housing 1308 of the drive unit 256. The housing 1308 may include openings (e.g., partitions or vents) that allow airflow out of the housing 1308. FIG. 26B As shown in the example, the baffle door 284 and the associated connecting pipes can be omitted.

[0325] Driver fan control module 1312 ( FIG. 5 It can control whether the driver fan 1304 is on or off, as discussed further below.

[0326] FIG. 26C , FIG. 26D and FIG. 26E The following figure is included: This figure includes an example implementation with actuator 1316 and baffle door 284. Actuator 1316 actuates baffle door 284 (e.g., linearly) to allow drive fan 1304 to draw air from: (a) only evaporator HEX (e.g., second evaporator hex 276), such as FIG. 26C (a) passenger-only carriages (e.g., 131 and / or 129), as described in the text; FIG. 26D As depicted in the text; or a combination of passenger compartments (e.g., 131 and / or 129) and evaporator HEX, such as FIG. 26E As depicted in [the text]. FIG. 26C , FIG. 26D and FIG. 26E In the example, the driver fan 1304 can be mounted to the housing 1308, for example.

[0327] FIG. 27Includes a flowchart describing an example method that controls driver fan 1304 to minimize noise. While for simplicity, an example focusing solely on controlling driver fan 1304 will be discussed, FIG. 27 This applies to controlling only the second drive fan 1316 and controlling both the second drive fan 1304 and the second drive fan 1316.

[0328] Control begins when the drive fan 1304 is off and the engine 104 is off. If the engine 104 is on, then... FIG. 27 The example can be concluded. At 1404, the driver fan control module 1312 determines whether the driver temperature is greater than the predetermined maximum driver temperature within a predetermined driver temperature range. If 1404 is false, the driver fan control module 1312 keeps the driver fan 1304 off at 1408, and control returns to 1404. If 1404 is true, control continues at 1412.

[0329] The predetermined driver temperature range is defined by a predetermined maximum driver temperature and a predetermined minimum driver temperature. The predetermined minimum driver temperature can be a predetermined amount lower than the predetermined driver setpoint temperature, and the predetermined maximum driver temperature can be a predetermined amount higher than the predetermined driver setpoint temperature.

[0330] The predetermined setpoint temperature can be calibrated and can be set to a value less than the lowest temperature rating of the component of driver 256. The predetermined amount can be calibrated and can be set to a value less than the difference between the predetermined setpoint temperature and the lowest temperature rating, such that the predetermined maximum driver temperature is also below the lowest temperature rating. By way of example only, the predetermined amount can be 5 degrees Fahrenheit or another suitable amount. In various implementations, the predetermined minimum driver temperature and the predetermined maximum driver temperature may not be centered relative to the predetermined driver setpoint temperature.

[0331] At 1412, the driver fan control module 1312 turns on the driver fan 1304. The driver fan control module 1312 can cause the driver fan 1304 to operate at a first predetermined speed. Alternatively, the driver fan control module 1312 can operate the driver fan 1304 based on a driver fan speed command. The driver fan control module 1312 can determine the driver fan speed command, for example, based on the rate of increase of the driver temperature. The driver fan control module 1312 can determine the driver fan speed command, for example, using either a function that associates the rate of increase of the driver temperature with the driver fan speed command and a lookup table. Generally, the driver fan speed command can increase with increasing rate of increase and decrease with decreasing rate of increase. When the driver fan 103 is turned on, the driver fan 1304 cools the driver 1304. Control continues at 1416.

[0332] At 1416, the driver fan control module 1312 determines whether the driver temperature is lower than a predetermined minimum driver temperature within a predetermined driver temperature range. If 1416 is false, the driver fan control module 1312 returns to 1412 and keeps the driver fan 1304 on. If 1416 is true, the driver fan control module 1312 shuts down the driver fan 1304 at 1420, and control returns to 1404. Alternatively, the driver fan control module 1312 may reduce the speed of the driver fan 1304 to a second predetermined speed lower than a first predetermined speed at step 1420. When the engine 104 is off, the driver fan 1304 is controlled as described above to minimize noise.

[0333] Although an example of starting control when the driver fan 1304 is off is provided, this application is also applicable to starting control when the driver fan 1304 is on or has been on. When the driver fan 1304 is on, control begins at 1416.

[0334] The foregoing description is illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses. The broad teachings of this disclosure can be implemented in various forms. Therefore, although this disclosure includes specific examples, its true scope should not be so limited, as other modifications will become apparent upon examination of the drawings, description, and appended claims. It should be understood that one or more steps within the method may be performed in a different order (or simultaneously) without altering the principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, although each embodiment described above is described as having certain features, any one or more of those features described relative to any embodiment of this disclosure may be implemented with features of any other embodiment and / or combined with features of any other embodiment, even if such combination is not explicitly described. In other words, the described embodiments are not mutually exclusive, and substitution of one or more embodiments for each other remains within the scope of this disclosure.

[0335] Various terms are used to describe spatial and functional relationships between elements (e.g., between modules, between circuit elements, between semiconductor layers, etc.), including “connection,” “joint,” “link,” “proximity,” “near,” “on top of,” “above,” “below,” and “set.” Unless explicitly described as “direct,” when describing a relationship between a first element and a second element in the above disclosure, the relationship can be a direct relationship in which no other intermediary element exists between the first element and the second element, but it can also be an indirect relationship in which one or more intermediary elements exist between the first element and the second element (spatially or functionally). As used herein, at least one of the phrases A, B, and C should be interpreted using the non-exclusive logic “OR” to represent logic (A or B or C) and should not be interpreted as representing “at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.”

[0336] In a diagram, the direction of the arrows, as indicated by the arrows, typically indicates the flow of information of interest (such as data or instructions). For example, when components A and B exchange various information, but the information transmitted from component A to component B is relevant to the diagram, the arrow can point from component A to component B. This unidirectional arrow does not imply that no other information is transmitted from component B to component A. Furthermore, for information sent from component A to component B, component B can send a request for or confirmation of receipt of that information back to component A.

[0337] In this application, the term "module" or "controller" may be replaced by the term "circuit" as defined below. The term "module" may refer to or include some of the following: application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; combinational logic circuit; field-programmable gate array (FPGA); processor circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that executes code; memory circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that stores code executed by the processor circuitry; other suitable hardware components that provide the above functions; or combinations of some or all of the above items, such as in a system-on-a-chip.

[0338] A module may include one or more interface circuits. In some examples, the interface circuits may include wired or wireless interfaces connected to a local area network (LAN), the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or a combination thereof. The functionality of any given module in this disclosure may be distributed across multiple modules connected via the interface circuits. For example, multiple modules may allow for load balancing. In another example, a server (also referred to as a remote or cloud) module may perform some functions on behalf of a client module.

[0339] The term "code" as used above can include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and can refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, data structures, and / or objects. The term "shared processor circuit" includes a single processor circuit that executes some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group processor circuit" includes processor circuits that, in combination with other processor circuits, execute some or all of the code from one or more modules. References to multiple processor circuits include multiple processor circuits on a discrete die, multiple processor circuits on a single die, multiple cores of a single processor circuit, multiple threads of a single processor circuit, or a combination of the foregoing. The term "shared memory circuit" includes a single memory circuit that stores some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group memory circuit" includes memory circuits that, in combination with other memory, store some or all of the code from one or more modules.

[0340] The term memory circuit is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. As used herein, the term computer-readable medium does not include transient electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (e.g., on a carrier wave); therefore, the term computer-readable medium can be considered tangible and non-transient. Non-limiting examples of non-transient tangible computer-readable media are non-volatile memory circuits (e.g., flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or masked read-only memory circuits), volatile memory circuits (e.g., static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (e.g., analog or digital magnetic tape or hard disk drives), and optical storage media (e.g., CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0341] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be partially or fully implemented by a special-purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. The aforementioned function blocks, flowchart components, and other elements serve as software specifications that can be routinely translated into a computer program by a technician or programmer.

[0342] A computer program includes processor-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium. A computer program may also include or depend on stored data. A computer program may include a basic input / output system (BIOS) for interacting with the hardware of a special-purpose computer, device drivers for interacting with specific devices of the special-purpose computer, one or more operating systems, user applications, background services, background applications, etc.

[0343] Computer programs can include: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, such as HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), XML (Extensible Markup Language), or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation); (ii) assembly code; (iii) object code generated from source code by a compiler; (iv) source code executed by an interpreter; (v) source code compiled and executed by a just-in-time (JIT) compiler, etc. As an example only, source code can be written using syntax from languages ​​including: C, C++, C#, Objective C, Swift, Haskell, Go, SQL, R, Lisp, etc. Fortran, Perl, Pascal, Curl, OCaml, HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language 5th Edition), Ada, ASP (Active Server Pages), PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor), Scala, Eiffel, Smalltalk, Erlang, Ruby, Lua, MATLAB, SIMULINK and

Claims

1. An air conditioning system, wherein the air conditioning system is an air conditioning system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine, the air conditioning system comprising: An electric compressor that draws power from a battery pack; A condenser configured to receive refrigerant output from the electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser; First control valve; A first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the first control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator. A first blower, the first blower mechanism causing air to be blown across the first evaporator and delivered to a first part of the vehicle compartment; Second control valve; The second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant inside the second evaporator. The second blower, the second blower mechanism, causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and delivered to the second part of the vehicle compartment; as well as A control module configured to control the speed of the electric compressor based on at least one of the temperature of the second portion of the vehicle's passenger compartment and the speed of the second blower when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blowing air through the second evaporator. The control module is configured to determine, based on the current of the electric compressor, whether to control the speed of the electric compressor based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower.

2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module is configured to: When the current of the electric compressor exceeds a predetermined value, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment; and When the current of the electric compressor is not greater than a predetermined value, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the speed of the second blower.

3. The air conditioning system according to claim 2, wherein, The control module is configured to, when the current of the electric compressor is greater than the predetermined value: (i) Operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the carriage is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of a predetermined temperature range; (ii) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is lower than the minimum temperature, the electric compressor is disabled; (iii) Keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is greater than the maximum temperature that defines the upper limit of the predetermined temperature range; as well as (iv) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is higher than the maximum temperature, repeat (i) to (iii).

4. The air conditioning system according to claim 2, wherein, The control module is configured such that when the current of the electric compressor is not greater than the predetermined value: The compressor speed command is determined based on the speed of the second blower; as well as The electric compressor is operated based on the compressor speed command.

5. The air conditioning system according to claim 4, wherein, The control module is configured to: As the speed of the second blower increases, the command to increase the speed of the compressor is executed; and As the speed of the second blower decreases, a command is given to reduce the speed of the compressor.

6. The air conditioning system according to claim 4, wherein, The control module is configured to: The compressor speed command is determined based on the speed of the second blower until the voltage of the battery pack is less than a predetermined voltage; as well as When the voltage of the battery pack is less than the predetermined voltage: (i) Operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the carriage is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of a predetermined temperature range; (ii) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is lower than the minimum temperature, the electric compressor is disabled; (iii) Keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is greater than the maximum temperature that defines the upper limit of the predetermined temperature range; as well as (iv) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is higher than the maximum temperature, repeat (i) to (iii).

7. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module is configured to: The electric compressor is operated at a predetermined speed for a predetermined time period; When the predetermined time period has elapsed, the current supplied to the electric compressor is determined; as well as Based on the current supplied to the electric compressor, it is determined whether the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower.

8. An air conditioning control method, the air conditioning control method being used in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine, the air conditioning control method comprising: Determine whether the internal combustion engine of the vehicle is off. The first evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the first control valve is opened, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the first evaporator to the refrigerant within the first evaporator. The first blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the first evaporator and delivered to the first part of the vehicle's passenger compartment. The condenser is configured to receive refrigerant output from an electric compressor and transfer heat from the refrigerant within the condenser to the air passing through the condenser, wherein the electric compressor draws power from a battery pack; Determine whether the electric compressor is turned on; Determine if the second blower is turned on and blowing air across the second evaporator. The second evaporator is configured to receive refrigerant from the condenser when the second control valve is open, and to transfer heat from the air passing through the second evaporator to the refrigerant within the second evaporator. The second blower mechanism causes air to be blown across the second evaporator and delivered to the second part of the vehicle's compartment; When the internal combustion engine of the vehicle is off, the electric compressor is on, and the second blower is on and blowing air through the second evaporator, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on at least one of the temperature of the second part of the vehicle's passenger compartment and the speed of the second blower; and The speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on whether it is based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower, determined by the current of the electric compressor.

9. The air conditioning control method according to claim 8, further comprising: When the current of the electric compressor is greater than a predetermined value, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment. as well as When the current of the electric compressor is not greater than the predetermined value, the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the speed of the second blower.

10. The air conditioning control method according to claim 9, further comprising: (i) Operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the carriage is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of the predetermined temperature range; (ii) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is lower than the minimum temperature, the electric compressor is disabled; (iii) Keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is higher than the maximum temperature that defines the upper limit of the predetermined temperature range; as well as (iv) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is higher than the maximum temperature, repeat (i) to (iii).

11. The air conditioning control method according to claim 9, wherein, When the current of the electric compressor is not greater than the predetermined value, controlling the speed of the electric compressor based on the speed of the second blower includes: The compressor speed command is determined based on the speed of the second blower; and The electric compressor is operated based on the compressor speed command.

12. The air conditioning control method according to claim 11, further comprising: As the speed of the second blower increases, the command to increase the speed of the compressor is executed. as well as As the speed of the second blower decreases, a command is given to reduce the speed of the compressor.

13. The air conditioning control method according to claim 11, further comprising: The compressor speed command is determined based on the speed of the second blower until the voltage of the battery pack is less than a predetermined voltage; as well as When the voltage of the battery pack is less than the predetermined voltage: (i) Operate the electric compressor at a predetermined speed until the temperature of the second part of the carriage is less than the minimum temperature of the lower limit of a predetermined temperature range; (ii) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is lower than the minimum temperature, the electric compressor is disabled; (iii) Keep the electric compressor disabled until the temperature of the second part of the compartment is higher than the maximum temperature that defines the upper limit of the predetermined temperature range; as well as (iv) When the temperature of the second part of the carriage is higher than the maximum temperature, repeat (i) to (iii).

14. The air conditioning control method according to claim 8, further comprising: The electric compressor is operated at a predetermined speed for a predetermined time period; When the predetermined time period has elapsed, the current supplied to the electric compressor is determined; as well as Based on the current of the electric compressor, it is determined whether the speed of the electric compressor is controlled based on the temperature of the second part of the vehicle compartment or the speed of the second blower.

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