Industrial cooling / heating system having one or more hybrid-powered stages

Abstract

A system is provided for cooling and / or heating an industrial facility, which includes a grid power interface, an off-grid power system, and a refrigerant loop including a compression stage, condensation stage, expansion stage and evaporation stage. At least one stage of the compression stage, condensation stage and evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be configured as a hybrid-powered stage powered by both the grid power interface and the off-grid power system. The hybrid-powered stage includes a first subsystem separate and distinct from a second subsystem. The first subsystem is supplied with grid power from the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system. The second subsystem is supplied with off-grid power from the off-grid power system and isolated from the grid power interface.

Description

INDUSTRIAL COOLING / HEATING SYSTEM HAVINGONE OR MORE HYBRID-POWERED STAGESBACKGROUND1. Field

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to cooling / heating systems for an industrial facility, which includes a refrigerant loop for cooling / heating space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.2, Related Art

[0002] Cooling / heating systems for an industrial facility employ a refrigerant loop for cooling / heating space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

[0003] For cooling, the refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The refrigerant loop directly or indirectly extracts heat from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility and rejects the heat to the ambient environment outside the industrial facility.

[0004] The compression stage increases the pressure of the refrigerant. The refrigerant enters the compression stage as low-pressure superheated gas, and leaves the compression stage as a high-pressure high-temperature gas. The compression stage can employ one of a number of different mechanical designs, such as a reciprocating compressor, scroll compressor, or rotary compressor. The compression stage acts like a pump to create the circulation of the refrigerant around the loop in a continuous cycle. The components of the compression stage are typically disposed outside the industrial facility.

[0005] The condensation stage is supplied with the high pressure high temperature gas refrigerant produced by the compression stage. The condensation stage employs one or more heat exchangers to remove heat from the high pressure high temperature gas refrigerant such that it condenses into a saturated liquid state, a.k.a. condensation. After condensing, the refrigerant is a high pressure high temperature liquid, at which point it is routed to the expansion stage. The condensation stage can employ one or more fans that force air across the heat exchanger(s) of the condensations stage, which transfers heat extracted from therefrigerant to the ambient environment outside the industrial facility. Additionally or alternatively, the heat exchangers ) of the condensation stage can be coupled to a loop that circulates water to a cooling tower. The cooling tower is configured to use evaporation to cool that circulating water expelling heat into the atmosphere, returning colder water to the heat exchanger of the condensation stage to extract heat from the refrigerant. The components of the condensation stage are typically disposed outside the industrial facility.

[0006] The expansion stage creates a drop in pressure after the refrigerant leaves the condensation stage. This pressure drop will cause some of the refrigerant to boil, creating a two-phase mixture. This rapid phase change is referred to as “flashing.” and it aids that next piece of equipment in the loop, the evaporation stage, to perform its intended function. The components of the expansion stage can be disposed outside or inside the industrial facility.

[0007] The evaporation stage employs one or more heat exchangers to transfer heat to the refrigerant directly or indirectly from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant enters the evaporation stage as a low temperature low pressure liquid-gas mixture. As the refrigerant passes through the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage and absorbs heat, the liquid phase changes state to a gas phase. In this manner, the refrigerant heats past its boiling point, which makes it low pressure superheated gas when it leaves the evaporation stage. This low pressure superheated gas is then returned to the compression stage for the cooling cycle to begin again. The evaporation stage can employ one or more fans that force hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility across the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the refrigerant. The cold air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. Additionally or alternatively, the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage can be coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handling unit. The air handling unit forces hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the working fluid. The cold air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The components of the evaporation stage can be disposed inside or outside the industrial facility.

[0008] For heating, the refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The refrigerant loop extracts heat from the ambient environment outside the industrial facility for supply to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

[0009] The compression stage increases the pressure of the refrigerant. The refrigerant enters the compression stage as low pressure low temperature gas, and leaves the compression stage as a high-pressure high-temperature gas. The compression stage can employ one of a number of different mechanical designs, such as a reciprocating compressor, scroll compressor, or rotary compressor. The compression stage acts like a pump to create the circulation of the refrigerant around the loop in a continuous cycle. The components of the compression stage are typically disposed outside the industrial facility.

[0010] The condensation stage is supplied with the high pressure high temperature gas refrigerant produced by the compression stage. The condensation stage employs one or more heat exchangers to remove heat from the high pressure high temperature gas refrigerant such that it condenses into a saturated liquid state, a.k.a. condensation. After condensing, the refrigerant is a high pressure high temperature liquid, at which point it is routed to the expansion stage. As the refrigerant passes through the heat exchanger(s) of the condensation stage and releases heat, the gas phase changes state to a liquid phase. The high pressure high temperature liquid refrigerant is routed to the expansion stage. The condensation stage can employ one or more fans that force air across the heat exchanger(s) of the condensations stage, which transfers heat extracted from the refrigerant to the air. The hot air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for heating the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. Additionally or alternatively, the heat exchanger(s) of the condensation stage can be coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handling unit disposed within the facility- . The air handling unit forces cold air supplied from space or equipment of the industrial facility across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, heating the air by rejecting the heat from the water or working fluid. The hot air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for heating the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility'. The components of the condensation stage can be disposed inside or outside the industrial facility.

[0011] The expansion stage creates a drop in pressure after the refrigerant leaves the condensation stage. This pressure drop will cause some of the refrigerant to boil, creating atwo-phase mixture. This rapid phase change is referred to as “flashing,” and it aids that next piece of equipment in the loop, the evaporation stage, to perform its intended function. The components of the expansion stage can be disposed outside or inside the industrial facility.

[0012] The evaporation stage employs one or more heat exchangers to transfer heat to the refrigerant. The refrigerant enters the evaporation stage as a low temperature liquid-gas mixture. As the refrigerant passes through the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage and absorbs heat, the liquid phase changes state to a gas phase. In this manner, the refrigerant heats past its boiling point, which makes it low pressure low temperature gas when it leaves the evaporation stage. This low pressure low temperature gas is then returned to the compression stage for the heating cycle to begin again. In air sourced systems, the evaporation stage can employ one or more fans that forces air across the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage, heating the refrigerant by absorbing heat from the ambient air outside the industrial facility. In ground source systems, the evaporation stage can employ one or more pumps that circulate water or other working fluid through one or more ground loops coupled to the heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage, heating the refrigerant by absorbing heat from the ground. The components of the evaporation stage are typically disposed outside the industrial facility.SUMMARY

[0013] A system is provided for cooling and / or heating an industrial facility, which includes a grid power interface, an off-grid power system separate and distinct from the grid power interface, and a refrigerant loop including a compression stage, a condensation stage, an expansion stage and an evaporation stage. At least one stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be configured as a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both the grid power interface and the off-grid power system. The hybrid-powered stage includes a first subsystem separate and distinct from a second subsystem. The first subsystem is supplied with grid power from the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system. The second subsystem is supplied with off-grid power from the off-grid power system and isolated from the grid power interface with no power-supply connection to grid power interface.

[0014] In embodiments, the first subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage can be optionally supplied with power from a backup electrical generator when grid power is unavailable.

[0015] In embodiments, at least one other stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be configured as a grid-powered stage that is powered by the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system.

[0016] In embodiments, the grid-powered stage can be optionally supplied with power from a backup electrical generator when grid power is unavailable.

[0017] In embodiments, the system can further include at least one controller configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered stage of the refrigerant loop to provide the cooling / heating function of the refrigerant loop.

[0018] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be configured to manage or adjust on / off state and speed (power level) for a motor or pump of the hybrid-powered stage.

[0019] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be further configured to manage or adjust on / off state and speed (power level) for a motor or pump of a grid-powered stage that is powered by the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system.

[0020] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be further configured to monitor or control at least one of: the off-grid power system, the grid power interface, an optional backup electrical generator, and a transfer switch.

[0021] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered stage based on control inputs selected from:i) inputs from environmental sensors;ii) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the hybrid-powered stage (or at a stage upstream or downstream of the hybrid powered stage) over time;iii) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the first subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage over time;iv) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the second subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage over time;v) real-time dynamic conditions over time;vi) product temperature at one or more times;vii) data representing forecasted or real-time weather; andviii) a predefined high-limit temperature and a predefined low-limit temperature.

[0022] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be programmed to operate autonomously.

[0023] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be configured to activate the second subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage when the second subsystem can provide a threshold level of cooling or heating.

[0024] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be configured to adjust speed (power level) of at least one motor or pump of the second subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage based on a required cooling or heating level.

[0025] In embodiments, the at least one controller can be configured to adjust speed (power level) of at least one motor or pump of the first subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage in the event that the demand for cooling or heating is not satisfied by the second system of the hybrid-powered stage.

[0026] In embodiments, only one stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage is configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

[0027] In other embodiments, multiple stages of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage are each configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

[0028] In embodiments, the compression stage of the refrigerant loop can include multiple compressors configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

[0029] In embodiments, the condensation stage of the refrigerant loop can include multiple condensers configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

[0030] In embodiments, the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can include multiple evaporators configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

[0031] In embodiments, the system can further include a first ground circuit for the grid power interface and components of the system that interface to the grid power interface, and a second ground circuit for the off-grid power system and components of the system that interface to the off-grid power system. The first ground circuit can be separate and distinct from the second ground circuit.

[0032] In embodiments, the compression stage, the condensation stage, the expansion stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be configured to cool space, equipment or processes of an industrial facility.

[0033] In embodiments, the compression stage, the condensation stage, the expansion stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be configured to heat space, equipment or processes of an industrial facility.

[0034] In embodiments, the condensation stage of the refrigerant loop can be operably coupled to a cooling tower to assist in extracting heat from the refrigerant in the condensation stage.

[0035] In embodiments, the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop can be operably coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handler, which employs a secondary coil or heat exchanger for cooling air that cools space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

[0036] In embodiments, the off-grid power system can include at least one of: a solar array or multi-array photovoltaic solar farm or other photovoltaic system, batteries or other photovoltaic system, DC-AC inverter, or DC-DC converter / regulator.

[0037] In embodiments, the industrial facility provides storage or warehousing of food products or goods, household items, or other items.

[0038] In other embodiments, the industrial facility can be a data center. The data center can include networked data processing systems and data communications equipment configured to host applications and services. The networked data processing systems can include servers, crypto-currency miners or Al infrastructure that is configured to train, deployand / or deliver Al applications and services.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The subject disclosure is further described in the detailed description which follows, in reference to the noted plurality of drawings by way of non-limiting examples of the subject disclosure, in which like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram that illustrates an example cooling system for an industrial facility in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary' stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The compression stage is configured as a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram that illustrates an example cooling system for an industrial facility in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop for cooling space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility-. The refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The evaporation stage is configured as a hybrid-poyvered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power.

[0042] FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams that illustrate an example cooling system for an industrial facility' in accordance yvith a third embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop for cooling space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary’ stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The compression stage is configured as a hybrid-poyvered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid poyver. The condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) of the condensation stage is (are) coupled to a loop that circulates water to a cooling tower. The cooling tower is configured to use evaporation to cool that circulating yvater expelling heat into the atmosphere, returning colder water to the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) of the condensation stage to extract heat from the refrigerant. The evaporator device(s) (i.e., heat exchangers )) of the evaporation stage is (are) coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handling unit. The air handling unit forces hot air supplied from space, equipment orprocesses of the industrial facility across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the working fluid. The cold air is redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility’ for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram that illustrates an example heating system for an industrial facility in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop for heating the space, equipment or processes of an industrial facility7. The refrigerant loop circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary7stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. The compression stage is configured as a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram that illustrates an example computer system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0045] The particulars shown herein are by w ay of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the embodiments of the subject disclosure only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the subject disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the subject disclosure, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the subject disclosure may be embodied in practice. Furthermore, like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.

[0046] In accordance with embodiments the present disclosure as described herein, both grid power (e.g., AC mains power from a utility grid) and off-gnd power (e.g., AC or DC power from an off-grid power system, such as a solar array / multi-arrays photovoltaic solar farm / other photovoltaic system, batteries and DC-to-AC inverter or DC-DC converter / regulator) can be used to power one or more stages of the refrigerant loop that cools / heats the space, equipment or processes of an industrial facility. For each given stage of the refrigerant loop (e.g., compression stage, condensation stage, evaporation stage) that is powdered by both grid power and off-grid power (which is referred to as a hybrid-powdered stage herein), two separate and distinct sub-systems (i.e., a first subsystem and a secondsubsystem) are provided that perform the function of that stage. The first subsystem is supplied with grid power (or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator when the grid power is unavailable) and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system. The second subsystem is supplied with off-grid power and isolated from the on-grid power with no power-supply connection to grid power. Optionally, one or more other stages of the refrigerant loop can be powered solely by grid power (or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator when the grid power is unavailable) with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system. Such other stage is referred to as a grid-powered stage herein. One or more controllers can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered stage(s) as well as the operation of grid-powered stage(s) of the refrigerant loop to provide the desired cooling / heating function of the refrigerant loop.

[0047] Importantly, the power supply isolation of the first and second subsystems of the hybrid-powered stages(s) of the refrigerant loop provides the following advantages supplements power with lower cost off-grid power;- the off-grid power system provides a second source of power to insulate from grid failure, cost, weather disruptions, etc. ;avoids the need to buy a large battery' array, either to satisfy the grid's solar / battery ratio or to store power for night usage; andavoids the need to obtain approval or interconnection agreement from the uti 1 i ty company that manages the grid when building and implementing the system. This benefit arises because the off-grid powered subsystem is isolated from the grid and cannot tie into and disrupt the operation of the grid This benefit can avoid substantial delays and costs that would otherwise be incurred to obtain approval from the utility company that manages the grid.

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates an example cooling system 1 for an industrial facility in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop 11 for cooling space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility7. The refrigerant loop 11 circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

[0049] The compression stage is a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power. The compression stage includes two separate and distinct subsystems (i.e., first compressor 13A and second compressor 13B) that perform the function of the compression stage. The first and second compressors 13 A, 13B can be fluidly coupled to the refrigerant loop 11 in a parallel arrangement (or other arrangement) such that one or both of the first and second compressors 13A, 13B can be operated to contribute to the function of the compression stage. The first compressor 13A is supplied with grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 A and transfer switch 21C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 21B and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The first compressor 13A is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The first compressor 13A includes motor control circuitry 13 Al that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21A (or the transfer switch 21C) and one or more motors 13A2 that drive one or more compressor devices 13A3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 13 Al can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and / or conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 21A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 13A2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 13A4. The compressor sensor and control circuity 13A4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the first compressor 13 A for control inputs as described herein. The motor(s) 13A2 for the first compressor 13 A can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 13A4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry’ 13A4. The second compressor 13B is supplied with off-grid power (e.g., AC or DC power) provided by the off-grid power system 23 (e.g., a solar array / multi-array photovoltaic solar farm / other photovoltaic system, batteries and AC -DC inverter or DC-DC converter / regulator) and isolated from the on-grid power with no power-supply connection to the grid power. The second compressor 13B includes motor control circuitry' 13B1 that is operably coupled between the off-grid power system 23 and one or more motors 13B2 that drive one or more compressor devices 13B3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 13B 1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the off-grid power system 23 toprovide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 13B2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 13B4. The motor(s) 13B2 for the second compressor 13B can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 13B4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the second compressor 13B for control inputs as described herein. The compressor sensor and control circuit}’ 13B4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 13B4. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (i.e., the first compressor 13A and the second compressor 13B) can be disposed outside the industrial facility7. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (i.e., the first compressor 13A and the second compressor 13B) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0050] The condensation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes a condenser 15 powered by grid power. The condenser 15 is supplied with grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 and transfer switch 21 C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 21B and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The condenser 15 is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The condenser 15 includes motor control circuitry 151 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) and one or more fan motors 152 that drive one or more fans that move air over condenser device(s) 153 to assist in removing heat from the refrigerant passing through the condenser device(s) 153. The motor control circuitry' 151 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 152 under control of condenser sensor and control circuity7154. The fan motor(s) 152 for the condenser 15 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The condenser sensor and control circuity 154 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the condenser 15 for control inputs as described herein. The condenser sensor and control circuity 154 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry7154. The operation of the fan motor(s) 152 can be configured to force air across the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 153, which transfers heat extracted from the refrigerant to the ambient environment outside the industrial facility. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 15 can be disposed outside theindustrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 15 can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0051] The evaporation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes an evaporator 17 powered by on-grid power. The evaporator 17 is supplied with on-grid power (e g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 A and transfer switch 21C. or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 2 IB and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The evaporator 17 is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The evaporator 17 includes motor control circuitry 171 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) and one or more fan motors 172 that drive one or more fans that move air over evaporator device(s) 173 to assist in transferring heat to the refrigerant passing through the evaporator device(s) 173. The motor control circuitry 171 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 172 under control of evaporator sensor and control circuity 174. The fan motor(s) 172 for the evaporator 17 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The evaporator sensor and control circuity- 174 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the evaporator 17 for control inputs as described herein. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 174 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 174. The operation of the fan motor(s) 172 can be configured to force hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility across the evaporator device(s) (i.e.. heat exchangers)) 173, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the refrigerant. The cold air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporator 17 can be disposed inside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporator 17 can be disposed outside the industrial facility.

[0052] The expansion stage includes an expansion valve 16 operably disposed in the loop between the condenser 15 and the evaporator 17. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the expansion stage (including the expansion valve 16) can be disposedoutside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (including the expansion valve 16) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0053] The refrigerant that exits the evaporator 17 is then returned to the compression stage (compressors 13B, 13A) for the cooling cycle to begin again.

[0054] Environmental sensors 19 can be configured to monitor operating conditions (such as ambient temperature outside the facility and temperature(s) of the air, equipment or processes within the facility) for control inputs as described herein.

[0055] One or more controllers (one shown as 25) can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered compression stage (compressors 13 A, 13B) via control signals communicated therewith, and to control operations of optional backup electrical generator 21B, transfer switch 21C, the grid-powered condenser 15 and the grid-powered evaporator 17 via control signals communicated therewith. The control signals can be communicated using standard or proprietary' wired or wireless or optical communication protocols. The control signals communicated to the sensor and control circuits 13A4, 13B4, 154, 174 can be configured to provide the desired cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11. The controller(s) 25 can include batteries for supply of electrical power to the controller(s) 25.

[0056] A control user interface 27 (e.g., a touch pad display screen) can interface to the controller 25 to permit a user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11. Additionally or alternatively, the control user interface 27 can include a built-in web server to allow a user to access the interface 27 to permit the user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11.

[0057] In embodiments, the controller(s) 25 of the cooling refrigerant loop 11 of FIG. 1 can be configured to perform a number of operations as follows:- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the motor 13A2 of first compressor 13 A (on-grid) and for the motor 13B2 of the second compressor 13B (off-grid);- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the fan motor 152 of condenser 15 and for the fan motor 172 of evaporator 17; and- monitor / control the off-grid power system 23, the grid power interface 21A, the optional backup electrical generator 2 IB and the transfer switch 21C.

[0058] In embodiments, the control inputs for these operations can include one or more of the following:- inputs from environmental sensors 19 (such as ambient temperature and temperature(s) of the air, equipment or processes within the facility) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the output of the hybrid-powered compression stage (at the merged output of the first compressor 13 A and second compressor 13B) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the condensation stage downstream of the hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the evaporation stage upstream of the compression hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the first compressor 13 A (on-grid) over time; - refrigerant pressure or temperature at the second compressor 13B (off-grid) over time;- real-time dynamic conditions (e.g., data representing set temperatures and cooling loads) over time;- product temperature at one or more times (e.g., when first stored in the industrial cooling facility’ and optionally at other time(s));- data representing forecasted or real-time weather (obtained from data communication from Internet-based weather sources); and- predefined high limit temperature and predefined low limit temperature.

[0059] In embodiments, the operations can adjust on / off state and speed (power level) ofthe motor 13A2 of compressor 13A, on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 13B2 of compressor 13B, on / off state and speed of the fan motor 152 of condenser 15, and on / off state and speed of the fan motor 172 of evaporator 17, all depending on inputs and conditions.

[0060] In embodiments, the operations can be programmed to operate autonomously.

[0061] In embodiments, the controller(s) 25 of the cooling refrigerant loop 11 of FIG. 1 can be configured to perform the following temperature control operations:- If a threshold cooling level can be satisfied by the compressor 13B (off-grid), activate the compressor 13B (off-grid), activate condenser 15 and evaporator 17, and adjust the fan motor speeds of the condenser 15 and the evaporator 17 to match required cooling level;- when the compressor 13B (off-grid) is active, adjust speed (power level) of the motor 13B2 of compressor 13B to consume available off-grid power; or adjust speed (power level) of motor 13B2 of compressor 13B to match the required cooling level in the event that the off-grid power system 23 has excess power over demand;- activate compressor 13A (on-gnd) and adjust speed (power level) of the motor 13A2 of compressor 13 A (on-grid) to supplement cooling in the event that the demand for cooling is not satisfied by compressor 13B;- If a threshold cooling level cannot be satisfied by the compressor 13B (off-grid), activate compressor 13A (with compressor 13B being inactive), activate condenser 15 and evaporator 17, and adjust speed (power level) of motor 13A2 of compressor 13A, speed (power level) of fan motor 172 of evaporator 17 and speed (power level) of fan motor 152 of condenser 15 to match required cooling level; and- operate to maintain a steady state cooling load or manage cooling load across multiple days to minimize grid power used.

[0062] Note that the system of FIG. 1 can be scaled to include more than one compressor powered by the off-grid power system 23 and / or more than one compressor powered by the on-grid power interface 21A (or by the optional backup electrical generator 21B).

[0063] FIG. 2 illustrates an example cooling system for an industrial facility in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerantloop 11' for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant loop 1 T circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

[0064] The compression stage is a grid-powered stage that includes a compressor 13 that is powered by on-grid power. The compressor 13 is supplied with on-grid power (e.g.. AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 A and transfer switch 21C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 21B and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The compressor 13 is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The compressor 13 includes motor control circuitry 131 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch) and one or more motors 132 that drive one or more compressor devices 133 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 131 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 132 under control of compressor sensor and control circuit}' 134. The motor(s) 132 for the compressor 13 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 134 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the compressor 13 for control inputs as described herein. The compressor sensor and control circuity 134 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 134. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the compressor 13 can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the compressor 13 can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0065] The condensation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes a condenser 15 powered by on-grid power. The condenser 15 is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 A and transfer switch 21C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 21B and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The condenser 15 is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The condenser 15 includes motor control circuitry 151 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) and one or more fan motors 152 that drive one or more fans thatmove air over condenser device(s) 153 to assist in removing heat from the refrigerant passing through the condenser device(s) 153. The motor control circuitry 151 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 21 A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 152 under control of condenser sensor and control circuity 154. The fan motor(s) 152 for the condenser 15 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The condenser sensor and control circuity 154 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the condenser 15 for control inputs as described herein. The condenser sensor and control circuity 154 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 154. The operation of the fan motor(s) 152 can be configured to force air across the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 153, which transfers heat extracted from the refrigerant to the ambient environment outside the industrial facility’ . In embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 15 can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 15 can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0066] The evaporation stage is a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power. The evaporation stage includes two separate and distinct subsystems (i.e., first evaporator 17A and second evaporator 17B) that perform the function of the evaporation stage. The first and second evaporators 17A, 17B can be fluidly coupled to the refrigerant loop 1 T in a parallel arrangement (or other arrangement) such that one or both of the first and second evaporators 17A, 17B can be operated to contribute to the function of the evaporation stage. The first evaporator 17A is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 21 A and transfer switch 21C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 21B and the transfer switch 21C when the grid power is unavailable. The first evaporator 17A is isolated from the off-grid power system 23 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 23. The first evaporator 17A includes motor control circuitry 17A1 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 21A (or the transfer switch 21C) and one or more fan motors 17A2 that drive one or more fans that move air over evaporator device(s) 17A3 to assist in transferring heat to the refrigerant passing through the evaporator device(s) 17A3. The motor control circuitry 17A1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derivedfrom the grid-power interface 21A (or the transfer switch 21C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 17A2 under control of evaporator sensor and control circuity 17A4. The fan motor(s) 17A2 for the first evaporator 17A can be an AC motor or DC motor. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 17A4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the first evaporator 17A for control inputs as described herein. The evaporator sensor and control circuitry’ 17A4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 17A4. The second evaporator 17B is supplied with off-grid power (e g., AC or DC power) provided by the off-grid power system 23 (e.g., a solar array / multi-array photovoltaic solar farm / other photovoltaic system, batteries and DC-AC inverter or DC-DC converter / regulator) and is isolated from the on-grid power with no power-supply connection to the grid power. The second evaporator 17B includes motor control circuitry 17B1 that is operably coupled between the off-grid power system 23 and one or more fan motors 17B2 that drive one or more fans that move air over evaporator device(s) 17B3 to assist in transferring heat to the refrigerant passing through the evaporator device(s) 17B3. The motor control circuitry 17B1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the off-grid power system 23 to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 17B2 under control of evaporator sensor and control circuity 17B4. The fan motor(s) 17B2 for the second evaporator 17B can be an AC motor or DC motor. The evaporator sensor and control circuity717B4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the second evaporator 17B for control inputs as described herein. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 17B4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 17B4. The operation of the fan motors 17A2, 17B2 can be configured to force hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility7across the corresponding evaporator device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 17A3, 17B3, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the refrigerant. The cold air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (i.e., first evaporator 17A and second evaporator 17B) can be disposed inside the industrial facility7. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (i.e.. first evaporator 17A and second evaporator 17B) can be disposed outside the industrial facility.

[0067] The expansion stage includes an expansion valve 16 operably disposed in the refrigerant loop IT between the condenser 15 and the evaporator stage (evaporators 17 A, 17B). In embodiments, some or all of the components of the expansion stage (including the expansion valve 16) can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (including the expansion valve 16) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0068] The refrigerant that exits the evaporator stage (evaporators 17A, 17B) is then returned to the compression stage (compressor 13 for the cooling cycle to begin again.

[0069] Environmental sensors 19 can be configured to monitor operating conditions (such as ambient temperature outside the facility and temperature(s) of the space, equipment or processes within the facility) for control inputs as described herein.

[0070] One or more controllers (one show n as 25) can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered evaporation stage (evaporators 17A, 17B) via control signals communicated therewith, and to control operations of optional backup generator 21B, transfer switch 21C, the grid-powered compression stage (compressor 13) and the grid-powered condenser 15 via control signals communicated therewith. The control signals can be communicated using standard or proprietary wired or wireless or optical communication protocols. The control signals communicated to the sensor and control circuits 134, 154, 17A4, 17B4 can be configured to provide the desired cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11'. The controller(s) 25 can include batteries for supply of electrical power to the controller(s) 25.

[0071] A control user interface 27 (e.g., a touch pad display screen) can interface to the controller 25 to permit a user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop IT and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop IT. Additionally or alternatively, the control user interface 27 can include a built-in web server to allow a user to access the interface 27 to permit the user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 11 ' and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop I T.

[0072] In embodiments, the controller(s) 25 of the cooling refrigerant loop 11 ' of FIG. 2can be configured to perform a number of operations as follows:- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the motor 132 of the compressor 13 (on-grid) and for the motor 13B2 of the second compressor 13B (off-grid);- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the fan motor 17A2 of first evaporator 17 A (on-grid) and for the fan motor 17B2 of the second evaporator 17B (off-grid);- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the fan motor 152 of the condenser 15; and- monitor / control the off-grid power system 23, the grid power interface 21A, the optional electrical generator 2 IB and the transfer switch 21C.

[0073] In embodiments, the control inputs for these operations can include one or more of the following:- inputs from environmental sensors 19 (such as ambient temperature, and temperature of the space, equipment or processes within the industrial facility) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the compressor 13 (on-grid) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the condenser 15 over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the output of the hybrid-powered evaporation stage (at the merged output of the first evaporator 17A and second evaporator 17B) over time;- refrigerant pressure / temperature at the evaporator 17A (on-grid) over time;- refrigerant pressure / temperature at the evaporator 17B (off-grid) over time;- real-time dynamic conditions (e.g., data representing set temperatures and cooling loads) over time;- product temperature at one or more times (e.g., when first stored in the industrial cooling facility and optionally at other time(s));- data representing forecasted or real-time weather (obtained from datacommunication from Internet-based weather sources); and- predefined high limit temperature and predefined low limit temperature.

[0074] In embodiments, the operations can adjust on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 132 of compressor 13. on / off state and speed of the fan motor 152 of condenser 15, on / off state and speed (power level) of the fan motor 17A2 of the first evaporator 17A, on / off state and speed (power level) of the fan motor 17B2 of the second evaporator 17B, all depending on inputs and conditions.

[0075] In embodiments, the operations can be programmed to operate autonomously.

[0076] In embodiments, the controller(s) 25 of the cooling refrigerant loop 11 ' of FIG. 2 can be configured to perform the following temperature control operations:- If a threshold cooling level can be satisfied by the evaporator 17B (off-grid), activate the evaporator 17B, activate the compressor 13, activate the condenser 15, and adjust the motor speed (power level) of the compressor 13 and the fan motor speed (power level) of the condenser 15 to match required cooling level;- when the evaporator 17B are active, adjust speed (power level) of the fan motor 17B2 of evaporator 17B to consume available off-grid power; or adjust speed (power level) of fan motor 17B2 of evaporator 17B to match the required cooling level in the event that the off-grid power system 23 has excess power over demand;- adjust speed (power level) of the fan motor 17A2 of evaporator 17A (on-grid) to supplement cooling in the event that the demand for cooling is not satisfied by evaporator 17B;- If a threshold cooling level cannot be satisfied by the evaporator 17B. activate compressor 13, activate condenser 15, and activate evaporator 17A (with evaporator 17B being inactive), and adjust speed (power level) of motor 132 of compressor 13 A, speed (power level) of fan motor 17A2 of evaporator 17A and speed (power level) of fan motor 152 of condenser 15 to match required cooling level; and- operate to maintain a steady state cooling load or manage cooling load across multiple days to minimize grid power used.

[0077] FIGS. 3 A and 3B illustrate an example cooling system 100 for an industrial facility in accordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop 111 for cooling space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant loop 111 circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. In embodiments, the refrigerant loop 111 can be embodied by one or more chiller systems as is well known in the refrigeration arts. The heat exchanger(s) of the condensation stage are coupled to a loop that circulates water (labeled “Hot Return” in FIG. 3 A) to a cooling tower 120 A. The cooling tower 120A is configured to use evaporation to cool that circulating water expelling heat into the atmosphere, returning colder water ((labeled “Cold Supply” in FIG. 3A) to the heat exchanger of the condensation stage to extract heat from the refrigerant. The heat exchanger(s) of the evaporation stage is (are) coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handling unit 120B. The air handling unit 120B forces hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility (labeled “Return Air” in FIG. 3A) across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility’ into the working fluid. The cold air (labeled “Supply Air” in FIG. 3A) is redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility' for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility'.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 3B, the compression stage of the refrigerant loop 111 is a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power. The compression stage includes two separate and distinct sub-systems (i.e., first compressor 113A and second compressor 113B) that perform the function of the compression stage. The first and second compressors 113 A, 113B can be fluidly coupled to the refrigerant loop 111 in a parallel arrangement (or other arrangement) such that one or both of the first and second compressors 113 A, 113B can be operated to contribute to the function of the compression stage. The first compressor 113A is supplied with grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 121A and transfer switch 121C. or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 121B and the transfer switch 121C when the grid power is unavailable. The first compressor 113A is isolated from the off-grid power system 123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 123. The first compressor 113A includes motor control circuitry 113A1 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) and one or more motors 113A2 that drive one or more compressor devices 113A3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressordevice(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 113 Al can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and / or conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 113A2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 113A4. The compressor sensor and control circuity 113A4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the first compressor 113A for control inputs as described herein. The motor(s) 13A2 for the first compressor 13A can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 113A4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 13A4. The second compressor 113B is supplied with off-grid power (e.g.. AC or DC power) provided by the off-grid power system 123 (e.g., a solar array / multi -array photovoltaic solar farm / other photovoltaic system, batteries and AC-DC inverter or DC-DC converter / regulator) and isolated from the on-grid power with no power-supply connection to the grid power. The second compressor 113B includes motor control circuitry 113B1 that is operably coupled between the off-grid power system 123 and one or more motors 113B2 that drive one or more compressor devices 113B3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry’ 113B1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the off-grid power system 123 to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 113B2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 113B4. The motor(s) 113B2 for the second compressor 113B can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 113B4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the second compressor 113B for control inputs as described herein. The compressor sensor and control circuity 113B4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry' 13B4. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (i.e., the first compressor 113 A and the second compressor 113B) can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (i.e., the first compressor 113 A and the second compressor 113B) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0079] The condensation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes a condenser 115powered by grid power. The condenser 115 is supplied with grid power (e g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 121 and transfer switch 121 C. or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 121B and the transfer switch 121C when the grid power is unavailable. The condenser 115 is isolated from the off-grid power system 123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 123. The condenser 115 includes pump control circuitry 1151 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) and one or more pumps 1152 that circulate water through the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchangers) 1153 and cooling tower 120A to assist in removing heat from the refrigerant passing through the condenser device(s) i.e., heat exchangers) 1153. The pump control circuitry 1151 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the pumps(s) 1152 under control of condenser sensor and control circuity 1154. The pump(s) 1152 can employ an AC motor or DC motor. The condenser sensor and control circuity 1154 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the condenser 115 for control inputs as described herein. The condenser sensor and control circuity 1154 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 154. The operation of the pump(s) 1152 can be configured to circulate w ater through a loop that circulates water (labeled "‘Hot Return” in FIG. 3 A) to the cooling tower 120A. The cooling tower 120A is configured to use evaporation to cool the circulating water expelling heat into the atmosphere, returning colder water ((labeled “Cold Supply” in FIG. 3A) to the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 1152 of the condensation stage to extract heat from the refrigerant. In this manner, the condenser 115 transfers heat extracted from the refrigerant to the ambient environment outside the industrial facility. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 115 can be disposed outside the industrial facility’. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the condenser 115 can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0080] The evaporation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes an evaporator 117 pow ered by on-grid power. The evaporator 117 is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 121A and transfer switch 121C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 121B and the transfer switch 121C when the grid power is unavailable. The evaporator 117 is isolated from the off-grid power system123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 123. The evaporator 117 includes pump control circuitry 1171 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) and one or more pump(s) 1172 that circulates water or other working fluid through the evaporator device(s) (i.e., heat exchangers) 1173 and air handling unit 120B to assist in extracting heat from the refrigerant passing through the evaporator device(s) i.e.. heat exchangers) 1173. The pump control circuitry 1171 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the grid power interface 121 A (or the transfer switch 121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the pump(s) 1172 under control of evaporator sensor and control circuity 1174. The pump(s) 1172 for the evaporator 117 can employ an AC motor or DC motor. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 1174 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the evaporator 17 for control inputs as described herein. The evaporator sensor and control circuit)' 1174 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry’ 1174. The operation of the pump(s) 1172 can be configured to circulate water or other working fluid to the air handling unit 120B. The air handling unit 120B forces hot air supplied from space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility (labeled “Return Air"’ in FIG. 3A) across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, cooling the air by absorbing the heat from the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility into the working fluid. The cold air (labeled “Supply Air” in FIG. 3A) is redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for cooling the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility'. The components of the evaporation stage can be disposed outside or inside the industrial facility.

[0081] The expansion stage includes an expansion valve 116 operably disposed in the refrigerant loop 111 between the condenser 115 and the evaporator 117. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the expansion stage (including the expansion valve 116) can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (including the expansion valve 116) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0082] The refrigerant that exits the evaporator 117 is then returned to the compression stage (compressors 113B, 113 A) for the cooling cycle to begin again.

[0083] Environmental sensors 119 can be configured to monitor operating conditions(such as ambient temperature outside the facility and temperature(s) of the air, equipment or processes within the facility) for control inputs as described herein.

[0084] One or more controllers (one shown as 125) can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered compression stage (compressors 113 A, 113B) via control signals communicated therewith, and to control operations of optional backup electrical generator 121B, transfer switch 121C, the grid-powered condenser 115 and the grid-powered evaporator 117 via control signals communicated therewith. The control signals can be communicated using standard or proprietary wired or wireless or optical communication protocols. The control signals communicated to the sensor and control circuits 113A4, 113B4. 1154, 1174 can be configured to provide the desired cooling function of the refrigerant loop 111. The controller(s) 125 can include batteries for supply of electrical power to the controller(s) 125.

[0085] A control user interface 127 (e.g., a touch pad display screen) can interface to the controller 125 to permit a user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 111 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 111. Additionally or alternatively, the control user interface 127 can include a built-in web server to allow a user to access the interface 127 to permit the user to activate or deactivate the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 111 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the cooling function of the refrigerant loop 111.

[0086] In embodiments, the controller(s) 125 of the cooling refrigerant loop 111 of FIGS. 3A and 3B can be configured to perform a number of operations as follows:- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the motor 113A2 of first compressor 113A (on-grid) and for the motor 113B2 of the second compressor 113B (off-grid);- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the pump(s) 1152 of condenser 115 and for the pump(s) 1172 of evaporator 117; and- monitor / control the off-grid power system 123, the grid power interface 121A, the optional backup electrical generator 121B and the transfer switch 121C.

[0087] In embodiments, the control inputs for these operations can include one or more ofthe following:- inputs from environmental sensors 119 (such as ambient temperature and temperature(s) of the air, equipment or processes within the facility) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the output of the hybrid-powered compression stage (at the merged output of the first compressor 113 A and second compressor 113B) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the condensation stage downstream of the hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the evaporation stage upstream of the compression hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the first compressor 113 A (on-grid) over time; - refrigerant pressure / temperature at the second compressor 113B (off-grid) over time; - real-time dynamic conditions (e.g., data representing set temperatures and cooling loads) over time;- product temperature at one or more times (e g., when first stored in the industrial cooling facility and optionally at other time(s));- data representing forecasted or real-time weather (obtained from data communication from Internet-based weather sources); and- predefined high limit temperature and predefined low limit temperature.

[0088] In embodiments, the operations can adjust on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 113A2 of compressor 113A, on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 113B2 of compressor 113B, on / off state and speed of the pump(s) 1152 of condenser 115, and on / off state and speed of the pump(s) 1172 of evaporator 117, all depending on inputs and conditions.

[0089] In embodiments, the operations can be programmed to operate autonomously.

[0090] In embodiments, the controller(s) 125 of the cooling refrigerant loop 111 of FIGS.3 A and 3B can be configured to perform the following temperature control operations: - If a threshold cooling level can be satisfied by the compressor 113B (off-grid), activate the compressor 113B (off-grid), activate condenser 115 and evaporator 117, and adjust the pump speeds of the condenser 115 and the evaporator 117 to match required cooling level;- when the compressor 113B (off-grid) is active, adjust speed (power level) of the motor 113B2 of compressor 113B to consume available off-grid power; or adjust speed (power level) of motor 113B2 of compressor 113B to match the required cooling level in the event that the off-grid power system 123 has excess power over demand;- activate compressor 113A (on-grid) and adjust speed (power level) of the motor 113A2 of compressor 113 A (on-grid) to supplement cooling in the event that the demand for cooling is not satisfied by compressor 113B;- If a threshold cooling level cannot be satisfied by the compressor 113B (off-grid), activate compressor 113A (with compressor 113B being inactive), activate condenser 115 and evaporator 117, and adjust speed (power level) of motor 113A2 of compressor 113A, speed (power level) of pump(s) 1172 of evaporator 117 and speed (power level) of pump(s) 1 152 of condenser 115 to match required cooling level; and- operate to maintain a steady state cooling load or manage cooling load across multiple days to minimize grid power used.

[0091] Note that the system of FIGS. 3 A and 3B can be scaled to include more than one compressor powered by the off-grid power system 123 and / or more than one compressor powered by the on-grid power interface 121 A (or by the optional backup electrical generator 121B).

[0092] In embodiments, the industrial facility that is cooled can employ a phase change material (such as a material including ethylene glycol) that stores cold and releases cold to interior space of the industrial facility. The phase change material stores cold by absorbing cold (releasing heat) when transitioning from a liquid phase to a solid phase, and releases cold by absorbing heat when transitioning from a solid phase to a liquid phase. The concentration of the phase change material can be adjusted to match desired temperatures for the phase change to occur. In embodiments, the interior space of the industrial facility that iscooled can be partitioned into multiple zones with different cooling requirements (such as different set point cooling temperatures). The concentration of the phase change material located within the multiple zones can be varied over the multiple zones to match the different cooling requirements for the zones. For example, a first zone can be configured to store unfrozen fruit and vegetables at a set point temperature below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, while a second zone can be configured to store frozen foods a set point temperature below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The range of acceptable temperatures for first and second zones can vary as well. The phase change material can be used to store cold supplied by the cooling refrigerant loop from cooling power supplied by the off-grid power system (i.e., during the day when solar power is available), and release the stored cold to the interior space of the industrial facility when the cooling power supplied by the off-grid power system is not available (i.e., during the night when solar power is not available). This can reduce or avoid the use of grid power to cool the interior space of the industrial facility when the cooling power supplied by the off-grid power system is not available. Temperature sensors can be configured to monitor the phase change material to determine ow much heat or cold can be absorbed / released at a set time.

[0093] In embodiments, the operations of the controller(s) (control system) as described herein can be configured to prioritize cooling power to the different zones depending on value of inventory or sensitivity to temperature fluctuations, allowing multiple products to be stored at different temperatures in discrete zones within the same facility.

[0094] In embodiments, electric heating elements or other heaters can be placed on or near the coil(s) of the evaporation stage(s) of the system to melt accumulated frost or ice during a defrost cycle. A drain pan can be located below the coil(s) of the evaporation stage(s). Such heating elements or heaters can be powered solely by the off-grid power system (without connection to on-grid power) for off-grid evaporation stages, if implemented as part of the system.

[0095] In the embodiments, the industrial facility that is cooled can provide cold storage warehousing of food products, cosmetics, or medicines.

[0096] Alternatively, the industrial facility' that is cooled can be a data center. The data center can include networked data processing systems and data communications equipment configured to host applications and services. The networked data processing systems caninclude servers, crypto-currency miners or Al infrastructure that is configured to train, deploy and / or deliver Al applications and services.

[0097] FIG. 4 illustrates an example heating system 1000 for an industrial facility in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a refrigerant loop 1011 for heating the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The refrigerant loop 1011 circulates refrigerant through a series of four primary stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. In embodiments, the refrigerant loop 1011 can be part of a heat pump system (with a reversing valve that allows it to switch between heating and cooling modes) that can be configured as a heating refrigerant loop for heating the facility and a cooling refrigerant loop for cooling the facility similar to the refrigerant loop described above with respect to FIG. 1. In this case, the evaporator device(s) of the heating mode can be used as the condenser device(s) of the cooling mode, and the condenser device(s) of the heating mode can be used as the evaporator device(s) of the cooling mode.

[0098] The compression stage is a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both grid power and off-grid power. The compression stage includes two separate and distinct subsystems (i.e.. first compressor 1113A and second compressor 1113B) that perform the function of the compression stage. The first and second compressors 1113 A, 1113B can be fluidly coupled to the refrigerant loop 1011 in a parallel arrangement (or other arrangement) such that either one or both of the first and second compressors 1113 A, 1113B can be operated to contribute to the function of the compression stage. The first compressor 1113A is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 1121 A and transfer switch 1121C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 1121B and the transfer switch 1121C when the grid power is unavailable. The first compressor 1113A is isolated from the off-grid power system 1123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 1123. The first compressor 1113A includes motor control circuitry 1113A1 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 1121 A (or the transfer switch 1121C) and one or more motors 1113A2 that drive one or more compressor devices 1113A3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 1113A1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derivedfrom the grid power interface 1121A (or the transfer switch 1121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 1113A2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 1113A4. The motor(s) 1113A2 for the first compressor 1113 A can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 1113A4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the first compressor 1113 A for control inputs as described herein. The compressor sensor and control circuity 1113A4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 113A4. The second compressor 1113B is supplied with off-grid power (e.g., AC or DC power) provided by the off-grid power system 1123 (e.g., a solar array / multi-array photovoltaic solar farm / other photovoltaic system, batteries and DC-AC inverter or DC-DC converter / regulator) and isolated from the on-grid power with no powersupply connection to the grid power. The second compressor 1113B includes motor control circuitry 1113B1 that is operably coupled between the off-grid power system 1123 and one or more motors 1113B2 that drive one or more compressor devices 1113B3 (e.g., reciprocating compressor device(s), scroll compressor device(s), or rotary compressor device(s)). The motor control circuitry 1113B1 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the off-grid power system 1123 to provide on / off and speed controls of the motor(s) 113B2 under control of compressor sensor and control circuity 1113B4. The motor(s) 1113B2 for the second compressor 1113B can be an AC motor or DC motor. The compressor sensor and control circuity 1113B4 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the second compressor 1113B for control inputs as described herein. The compressor sensor and control circuity 1113B4 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry’ 1113B4. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (first compressor 1131 A and second compressor 1113B) can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the compression stage (first compressor 1131A and second compressor 1113B) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0099] The condensation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes a condenser 1115 powered by on-grid power. The condenser is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 1121 A and transfer switch 1121C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 1121 B and the transfer switch 1121 C when thegrid power is unavailable. The condenser 1115 is isolated from the off-grid power system 1123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 1123. The condenser 1115 includes motor control circuitry 11151 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 1121 A (or the transfer switch 1121C) and one or more fan motors 11152 that drive one or more fans that move air over condenser device(s) 11153 to assist in transferring heat extracted from the refrigerant passing through the condenser device(s) 11153 to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The motor control circuitry 11151 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditioning / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the on-grid power interface 1121A (or the transfer switch 1121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 11152 under control of condenser sensor and control circuity 11154. The fan motor(s) 11152 for the condenser 1115 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The condenser sensor and control circuity 11154 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the condenser 1115 for control inputs as described herein. The condenser sensor and control circuity 11154 can include a battery for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry 11154. The fan motor(s) 11152 can be operated to force air across the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchangers )) 11153, which transfers heat extracted from the refrigerant to the air. The hot air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for heating the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. Additionally or alternatively, the condenser device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 1 1153 can be coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handling unit disposed within the facility. The air handling unit forces cold air supplied from space or equipment of the industrial facility across a secondary coil / heat exchanger, heating the air by rejecting the heat from the water or working fluid. The hot air can be redirected to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility for heating the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility. The components of the condenser 1115 can be disposed inside or outside the industrial facility.

[0100] The evaporation stage is a grid-powered stage that includes an evaporator 1117 powered by on-grid power. The evaporator 1117 is supplied with on-grid power (e.g., AC mains power) provided by grid power interface 1121 A and transfer switch 1121C, or optionally with power from a backup electrical generator 1121B and the transfer switch 1211 C when the grid power is unavailable. The evaporator 1117 is isolated from the off-gridpower system 1123 with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system 1123. The evaporator 1117 includes motor control circuitry 11171 that is operably coupled between the grid power interface 1121 A (or the transfer switch 1121C) and one or more fan motors 11172 that drive one or more fans that move air over evaporator device(s) 11173 to assist absorbing heat from ambient air outside the industrial facility to the refrigerant passing through the evaporator device(s) 11173. The motor control circuitry 11171 can be configured to perform power supply signal switching and conditionmg / transformation / regulation of the power supply signal provided by or derived from the on-grid power interface 1121 A (or the transfer switch 1121C) to provide on / off and speed controls of the fan motor(s) 11172 under control of evaporator sensor and control circuity 11174. The fan motor(s) 11152 for the evaporator 117 can be an AC motor or DC motor. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 11174 can also include sensors (such as pressure sensors and temperature sensors) that monitor operating conditions of the evaporator 1117 for control inputs as described herein. The evaporator sensor and control circuity 11174 can include a battery' for supplying power to the sensors and control circuits of the circuitry’ 11174. The fan motor(s) 11172 can be operated to force air across the evaporator device(s) (i.e., heat exchangers)) 11173. heating the refrigerant by absorbing heat from the ambient air outside the industrial facility’ . In alternative embodiments, the evaporator 1117 can be a ground source system that employs one or more pumps that circulate yvater or other working fluid through one or more ground loops coupled to the evaporator device(s) (i.e., heat exchanger(s)) 11173 of the evaporation stage, heating the refrigerant by absorbing heat from the ground. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporator 1117 can be disposed outside the industrial facility7. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporator 1117 can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0101] The expansion stage includes an expansion valve 1116 operably disposed in the refrigerant loop 1011 between the condenser 1115 and the evaporator 1117. In embodiments, some or all of the components of the expansion stage (including the expansion valve 1116) can be disposed outside the industrial facility. In other embodiments, some or all of the components of the evaporation stage (including the expansion valve 1116) can be disposed inside the industrial facility.

[0102] The refrigerant that exits the evaporator 1117 is then returned to the compression stage (compressors 1113A, 1113B) for the heating cycle to begin again.

[0103] Environmental sensors 1119 can be configured to monitor operating conditions (such as ambient temperature outside the facility and temperature(s) of the space, equipment or processes within the facility) for control inputs as described herein.

[0104] One or more controllers (one shown as 1125) can be configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered compression stage (compressors 1113A, 1113B) via control signals communicated therewith, and to control operations of optional backup generator 1121B, transfer switch 1121C, the grid-powered condenser 1115 and the grid-powdered evaporator 1117 via control signals communicated therewith. The control signals can be communicated using standard or proprietary wired or wireless or optical communication protocols. The control signals communicated to the sensor and control circuits 1113A4, 1113B4, 11154, 11174 can be configured to provide the desired heating function of the refrigerant loop 1011. The controller(s) 1125 can include batteries for supply of electrical power to the controller(s) 1125.

[0105] A control user interface 1217 (e g., a touch pad display screen) can interface to the controller 1125 to permit a user to activate or deactivate the heating function of the refrigerant loop 1011 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the heating function of the refrigerant loop 1011. Additionally or alternatively, the control user interface 1127 can include a built-in web server to allow a user to access the interface 1127 to permit the user to activate or deactivate the heating function of the refrigerant loop 1011 and / or set parameters (such as temperature set points and / or time schedules) related to the heating function of the refrigerant loop 1011.

[0106] The controller(s) 125 of the heating refrigerant loop 1011 of FIG. 4 can be configured to perform a number of operations as follows:- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the motor 1113A2 of first compressor 1113A (on-grid) and for the motor 1113B2 of the second compressor 1113B (off-grid);- manage on / off state and speed (power level) for the fan motor 11152 of condenser 1115 and for the fan motor 11172 (or ground loop pump) of evaporator 1117: and- monitor / control the off-grid power system 1123, the grid power interface 1121 A, the optional electrical generator 112 IB and the transfer switch 1121C.

[0107] In embodiments, the control inputs for these operations can include one or more of the following:- inputs from environmental sensors 1119 (such as ambient temperature and temperature of the space, equipment or processes within the industrial faci 1 i ty) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the output of the hybrid-powered compression stage (at the merged output of the first compressor 1113A and second compressor 1113B) over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the condensation stage downstream of the hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the evaporation stage upstream of the compression hybrid-powered compression stage over time;- refrigerant pressure or temperature at the first compressor 1113A (on-grid) over time;- refrigerant pressure / temperature at the second compressor 1113B (off-grid) over time;- real-time dynamic conditions (e.g., data representing set temperatures and heating loads) over time;- product temperature at one or more times (e.g., when first stored in the industrial cooling facility and optionally at other time(s));- data representing forecasted or real-time weather (obtained from data communication from Internet-based weather sources); and- predefined high limit temperature and predefined low limit temperature.

[0108] In embodiments, the operations can adjust on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 1113A2 of compressor 113A, on / off state and speed (power level) of the motor 1113B2 of compressor 113B, on / off state and speed of the fan motor 11152 of condenser 115, and on / off state and speed of the fan motor 11172 (or ground loop pump) of evaporator 1117, all depending on inputs and conditions.

[0109] In embodiments, the operations can be programmed to operate autonomously.

[0110] In embodiments, the controller(s) 1125 of the heating refrigerant loop 1011 of FIG. 4 can be configured to perform the following temperature control operations:- If a threshold heating level can be satisfied by the compressor 1113B (off-grid), activate the compressor 1113B (off-grid), activate condenser 1115 and evaporator 1117, and adjust the fan motor speeds of the condenser 1115 and the evaporator 1117 to match required heating level;- when the compressor 1113B (off-grid) is active, adjust speed (power level) of the motor 1113B2 of compressor 1113B to consume available off-grid power; or adjust speed (power level) of motor 1113B2 of compressor 1113B to match the required heating level in the event that the off-grid power system 1123 has excess power over demand;- activate compressor 1113 A (on-grid) and adjust speed (power level) of the motor 1113 A2 of compressor 1113 A (on-grid) to supplement heating in the event that the demand for cooling is not satisfied by compressor 1113B;- If a threshold heating level cannot be satisfied by the compressor 1113B (off-grid), activate compressor 1113A (with compressor 1113B being inactive), activate condenser 1115 and evaporator 1117, and adjust speed (power level) of motor 1113A2 of compressor 1113A, speed (power level) of fan motor 11172 of evaporator 1117 and speed (power level) of fan motor 11 152 of condenser 1115 to match required heating level; and- operate to maintain a steady state cooling load or manage heating load across multiple days to minimize grid power used.

[0111] Note that the system of FIG. 4 can be scaled to include more than one compressor powered by the off-grid power system 1123 and / or more than one compressor powered by the on-grid power interface 1121 A (or by the optional backup generator 112 IB).

[0112] In other embodiments, the refrigerant loops of FIGS. 2, 3 A and 3B can be modified for heating an industrial facility. In such embodiments, the condensation stage is configured to transfer heat from the refrigerant passing through condenser device(s) to the space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility, and the evaporation stage is configured to absorb heat from outside the industrial facility to the refrigerant passingthrough evaporator device(s).

[0113] In embodiments, the industrial facility that is heated can provide storage or warehousing of food products or goods, household items (such as a self-storage spaces), or other items.

[0114] In yet other embodiments, the refrigerant loops of FIGS. 1, 2, 3A and 3B, and 4 can be modified to include more than one hybrid powered stage. For example, the refrigerant loops of FIGS. 1 and 2 can be combined to include both a hybrid-powered compressor stage as shown and described above with respect to FIG. 1 as well as a hybrid-powered evaporation stage as shown and descnbed above with respect to FIG. 2. Other adaptations involving more than one hybrid powered stage can be made to the refrigerant loops of FIGS. 1, 2, 3A and 3B, and 4 as described herein.

[0115] Note that in the embodiments described herein, a first ground circuit can be provided for the grid power interface and the components of the system that interface to the grid power interface. A second ground circuit can be provided for the off-grid power system and the components of the system that interface to the off-grid power system. The first ground circuit can be separate and distinct from the first ground circuit in order to provide for electrical isolation between the grid power interface and the off-grid power system.

[0116] FIG. 5 illustrates an example device 2500, with a processor 2502 and memory 2504 that can be configured to implement various embodiments of the methods and processes as discussed in the present application, including the functionality of the control system and control system interface of the industrial cooling / heating systems described herein. Memory' 2504 can also host one or more databases and can include one or more forms of volatile data storage media such as random-access memory (RAM), and / or one or more forms of nonvolatile storage media (such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and so forth).

[0117] Device 2500 is one example of a computing device or programmable device and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to scope of use or functionality of device 2500 and / or its possible architectures. For example, device 2500 can comprise one or more computing devices, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), etc.

[0118] Further, device 2500 should not be interpreted as having any dependency relating to one or a combination of components illustrated in device 2500. For example.device 2500 may include one or more computers, such as an embedded computing platform, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a workstation, etc., or any combination or accumulation thereof.

[0119] Device 2500 can also include a bus 2508 configured to allow various components and devices, such as processors 2502, memory 2504. and local data storage 2510, among other components, to communicate with each other.

[0120] Bus 2508 can include one or more of any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. Bus 2508 can also include wired and / or wireless buses.

[0121] Local data storage 2510 can include fixed media (e.g., RAM, ROM, a fixed hard drive, etc.) as well as removable media (e.g., a flash memory drive, a removable hard drive, optical disks, magnetic disks, and so forth). One or more input / output (I / O) device(s) 2512 may also communicate via a user interface (UI) controller 2514, which may connect with I / O device(s) 2512 either directly or through bus 2508.

[0122] In one possible implementation, a network interface 2516 may communicate outside of device 2500 via a connected network. A media drive / interface 2518 can accept removable tangible media 2520, such as flash drives, optical disks, removable hard drives, software products, etc. In one possible implementation, logic, computing instructions, and / or software programs comprising elements of module 2506 may reside on removable media 2520 readable by media drive / interface 2518.

[0123] In one possible embodiment, input / output device(s) 2512 can allow a user (such as a human annotator) to enter commands and information into device 2500, and also allow information to be presented to the user and / or other components or devices. Examples of input device(s) 2512 include, for example, sensors, a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a microphone, a scanner, and any other input devices known in the art.Examples of output devices include a display device (e.g., a monitor or projector), speakers, a printer, a network card, and so on.

[0124] Various systems and processes of present disclosure may be described herein in the general context of software or program modules, or the techniques and modules may beimplemented in pure computing hardware. Software generally includes routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and so forth that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. An implementation of these modules and techniques may be stored on or transmitted across some form of tangible computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available data storage medium or media that is tangible and can be accessed by a computing device. Computer readable media may thus comprise computer storage media. "Computer storage media’7designates tangible media, and includes volatile and non-volatile, removable, and non-removable tangible media implemented for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM. EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other tangible medium which can be used to store the desired information, and which can be accessed by a computer. Some of the methods and processes described above can be performed by a processor. The term "‘processor” should not be construed to limit the embodiments disclosed herein to any particular device type or system. The processor may include a computer system. The computer system may also include a computer processor (e.g., a microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor, general-purpose computer, special-purpose machine, virtual machine, software container, or appliance) for executing any of the methods and processes described above.

[0125] The computer system may further include a memory' such as a semiconductor memory device (e.g., a RAM, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, or Flash-Programmable RAM), a magnetic memory device (e.g., a diskette or fixed disk), an optical memory device (e.g., a CD-ROM), a PC card (e.g., PCMCIA card), or other memory device.

[0126] Alternatively or additionally, the processor may include discrete electronic components coupled to a printed circuit board, integrated circuitry (e.g., Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC)), and / or programmable logic devices (e.g., a Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA)). Any of the methods and processes described above can be implemented using such logic devices.

[0127] Some of the methods and processes described above can be implemented as computer program logic for use wdth the computer processor. The computer program logic may be embodied in various forms, including a source code form or a computer executableform. Source code may include a series of computer program instructions in a variety' of programming languages (e.g., an object code, an assembly language, or a high-level language such as C, C++, or JAVA). Such computer instructions can be stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium (e.g., memory') and executed by the computer processor. The computer instructions may be distributed in any form as a removable storage medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over a communication system (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web).

[0128] Although only a few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures.

Claims

We claim:

1. A system for cooling and / or heating an industrial facility, the system comprising:a grid power interface;an off-grid power system separate and distinct from the grid power interface; and a refrigerant loop including a compression stage, a condensation stage, an expansion stage and an evaporation stage, wherein at least one stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop is configured as a hybrid-powered stage that is powered by both the grid power interface and the off-grid power system, wherein the hybrid-powered stage includes a first subsystem separate and distinct from a second subsystem, wherein the first subsystem is supplied with grid power from the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system, and wherein the second subsystem is supplied with off-grid power from the off-grid power system and isolated from the grid power interface with no power-supply connection to grid power interface.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein:the first subsystem is optionally supplied with power from a backup electrical generator when grid power is unavailable.

3. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:at least one other stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop is configured as a grid-powered stage that is powered by the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system.

4. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the grid-powered stage is optionally supplied with power from a backup electrical generator when grid power is unavailable.

5. A system according to any preceding claim, further comprising:at least one controller configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered stage ofthe refrigerant loop to provide the cooling / heating function of the refrigerant loop.

6. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is configured to manage or adjust on / off state and speed (power level) for a motor or pump of the hybrid-powered stage.

7. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is further configured to manage or adjust on / off state and speed (power level) for a motor or pump of a grid-powered stage that is powered by the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system w ith no power supply connection to the off-grid power system.

8. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is further configured to monitor or control at least one of: the off-grid power system, the grid power interface, an optional electrical backup generator, and a transfer switch.

9. A system according to claim 5, wherein:at least one controller configured to control operation of the hybrid-powered stage based on control inputs selected from:i) inputs from environmental sensors;ii) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the hybrid-powered stage over time; iii) refrigerant pressure or temperature at a stage upstream or downstream of the hybrid powered stage over time;iv) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the first subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage over time;v) refrigerant pressure or temperature at the second subsystem of the hybrid-pow ered stage over time;vi) refrigerant pressure or temperature at at least one grid-powered stage that ispowered by the grid power interface and isolated from the off-grid power system with no power supply connection to the off-grid power system;vii) real-time dynamic conditions over time;viii) product temperature at one or more times;ix) data representing forecasted or real-time weather; andx) a predefined high-limit temperature and a predefined low-limit temperature.

10. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is programmed to operate autonomously.

11. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is configured to activate the second subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage when the second subsystem can provide a threshold level of cooling or heating.

12. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is configured to adjust speed (power level) of at least one motor or pump of the second subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage based on a required cooling or heating level.

13. A system according to claim 5, wherein:the at least one controller is configured to adjust speed (power level) of at least one motor or pump of the first subsystem of the hybrid-powered stage in the event that the demand for cooling or heating is not satisfied by the second system of the hybrid-powered stage.

14. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:only one stage of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage is configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

15. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:multiple stages of the compression stage, the condensation stage and the evaporation stage are each configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

16. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the compression stage of the refrigerant loop comprises multiple compressors configured as a hybrid-powered stage; and / orthe condensation stage of the refrigerant loop comprises multiple condensers configured as a hybrid-powered stage; and / orthe evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop comprises multiple evaporators configured as a hybrid-powered stage.

17. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the compression stage, the condensation stage, the expansion stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop are configured to cool space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility'.

18. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the compression stage, the condensation stage, the expansion stage and the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop are configured to heat space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

19. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the condensation stage of the refrigerant loop is operably coupled to a cooling tower to assist in extracting heat from the refrigerant in the condensation stage.

20. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the evaporation stage of the refrigerant loop is operably coupled to a loop that circulates water or other working fluid to an air handler, which employs a secondary coil or heat exchanger for cooling air that cools space, equipment or processes of the industrial facility.

21. A system according to any preceding claim, further comprising:a first ground circuit for the grid power interface and components of the system that interface to the grid power interface; anda second ground circuit for the off-grid power system and components of the system that interface to the off-grid power system;wherein the first ground circuit is separate and distinct from the second ground circuit.

22. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein.the off-grid power system includes at least one of: a solar array or multi-array photovoltaic solar farm or other photovoltaic system, batteries, DC-AC inverter, or DC-DC converter / regulator.

23. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the industrial facility provides storage or warehousing of food products or goods, household items, or other items.

24. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein:the industrial facility comprises a data center.

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