Outdoor AC Control Unit Block Layout for Simpler Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air conditioners have complex interconnections in their control units, leading to reliability issues, increased costs for handling electromagnetic interference, and difficulty in altering control variables due to linear transformer design.
Innovation Solution
The control unit of the air conditioner is divided into multiple blocks, each mounted on different substrates, including a power factor compensation circuit, compressor inverter, fan motor inverters, system controller, and noise filter, which simplifies wiring and improves signal transmission efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power modules are designed as linear transformers with complex interconnections, then control functionality is achieved, but reliability deteriorates and electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is divided into multiple independent power modules, each responsible for specific control functions. These modules are connected through a bus structure rather than complex point-to-point interconnections, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A bus structure serves as an intermediary communication channel between power modules, replacing direct complex interconnections. This mediator simplifies the connection topology and reduces electromagnetic interference while maintaining control functionality.
2Device complexity
If complex interconnections are used in control unit, then control functions are implemented, but additional cost for electromagnetic interference handling is incurred
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the control unit into separate power modules with dedicated functions, electromagnetic interference is localized to specific modules rather than affecting the entire system. This modular approach reduces the overall electromagnetic interference burden.
Solution Approach 2:
Electromagnetic interference handling requirements are extracted and addressed at the module level rather than requiring system-wide complex shielding and filtering, reducing overall costs while maintaining effectiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If linear transformer design is used for power modules, then control is achieved, but difficulty in altering control variables increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power modules are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow control variables to be altered more easily. The modular structure enables flexible reconfiguration and adjustment of control parameters without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows for easier change of control parameters by utilizing the modular power module structure, where parameters can be adjusted at the module level without affecting the entire control system, enhancing adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces unnecessary resistance and noise, simplifies interconnections, and facilitates easier modification of control variables, enhancing the operating efficiency and management of the control unit.
Implementation Method 1
a power factor compensation (PFC) circuit which converts alternating current (AC) power provided by a commercial AC power source into direct current (DC) power
Implementation Method 2
a compressor inverter which drives a compressor motor by converting the DC power into AC power
Implementation Method 3
a fourth block having a filter for removing noise from input three-phase power
Data Source
AI summary
An air conditioner is provided. A control unit of an outdoor unit of the air conditioner is divided into a plurality of blocks according to a set of rules. Then, the blocks are mounted on different substrates. Therefore, it is possible to simplify wiring, facilitating the interconnection of the blocks and enable the control unit to be managed in units of the blocks. In addition, it is possible to improve user convenience.