Vehicle A/C Compressor Mode Transitions With Reduced Torque Disturbance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle air conditioning systems experience noticeable torque disturbances when mechanically coupling and decoupling the air conditioner compressor to the energy source, leading to discomfort for the driver and inefficient fuel control.
Innovation Solution
The method involves reducing the refrigerant pressurization capacity of the air conditioning compressor before engaging and disengaging it from the energy conversion device, by adjusting the compressor displacement command, to minimize torque changes and reduce the necessary torque, thereby smoothing transitions and reducing engine load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the air conditioner compressor is mechanically coupled and decoupled to the energy source, then the cabin temperature can be controlled, but noticeable torque disturbances occur leading to driver discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by adjusting the compressor displacement to a reduced position before mechanically coupling or decoupling the compressor from the energy source. This preliminary displacement adjustment minimizes the torque change that occurs during engagement/disengagement, thereby reducing noticeable torque disturbances to the driver while maintaining effective cabin temperature control.
2Temperature
If the air conditioner compressor operates at high cooling capacity, then driver comfort is improved during warm conditions, but fuel efficiency decreases due to continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by continuously adjusting the compressor displacement based on real-time cabin temperature conditions, ambient temperature, and humidity levels. This dynamic adjustment allows the compressor to operate at high capacity when needed for driver comfort while reducing capacity during milder conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency through adaptive operation rather than continuous high-capacity running.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters by adjusting the compressor displacement command based on environmental conditions and cabin temperature requirements. This parameter change enables the compressor to transition between different operating modes (high capacity, medium capacity, low capacity, or off) to balance cooling performance with fuel consumption, improving overall energy efficiency.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the compressor displacement is reduced before engagement, then torque disturbances are minimized, but the transition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by implementing a structured sequence of displacement adjustments at specific intervals before and during compressor engagement/disengagement. The control system commands displacement changes at predetermined time points and rates, creating a standardized transition pattern that minimizes torque disturbances while maintaining acceptable transition timing for system responsiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling transitions between activating and deactivating a vehicle air conditioner compressor is disclosed. In one example, displacement of the air conditioner compressor is adjusted before the air conditioner is coupled to an energy conversion device. The method may provide smooth transitions between different air conditioner compressor control modes.