Vehicle A/C Compressor Load Control for Smooth Torque Transitions
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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, affecting driver comfort and fuel efficiency.
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, adjusting the compressor displacement command to minimize torque changes, thereby reducing the noticeable impact on the driveline and engine load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the air conditioner compressor is mechanically coupled and decoupled to the energy source to control cabin temperature, then the cooling capacity is sufficient to maintain desired cabin temperature, but noticeable torque disturbances occur on the driveline affecting driver comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The system reduces the compressor displacement command to a minimum level before the clutch is engaged or disengaged. This preliminary action ensures that when the mechanical coupling occurs, the compressor is already in a low-torque state, minimizing the torque disturbance transmitted to the driveline and improving driver comfort while maintaining effective temperature control.
2Temperature
If the air conditioner compressor operates at high capacity to provide adequate cooling, then driver comfort is maintained during warm conditions, but fuel consumption increases due to higher engine load
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the compressor displacement command based on operating conditions. By reducing the displacement to a minimum level before clutch engagement and modulating it during operation, the system optimizes the balance between providing adequate cooling capacity and minimizing engine load, thereby reducing fuel consumption while maintaining driver comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling torque of an air conditioner compressor is disclosed. In one example, the air conditioner compressor is a variable displacement compressor. The method may provide may improve vehicle acceleration response while at the same time providing cooling capacity to a vehicle cabin.