Air conditioner
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air conditioner outdoor units with multiple compressors require a long time to reach target capacity due to the need for constant speed compressors to standby until the variable speed compressor reaches a predetermined capacity, and subsequent capacity control by the variable speed compressor.
Innovation Solution
An outdoor unit with plural constant capacity compressors and a variable capacity compressor, controlled by a controller that sequentially starts up the constant capacity compressors and regulates the operating frequency of the variable capacity compressor, allowing for quicker startup and capacity control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the variable speed compressor is raised to a predetermined capacity first and then constant speed compressors are activated sequentially, then the compressors can be controlled to reach target capacity, but a long amount of time is required until the outdoor unit finally reaches its target capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional startup sequence by activating constant speed compressors first and then adjusting the variable speed compressor, rather than raising the variable speed compressor first and then activating constant speed compressors. This reversal eliminates the standby time and capacity control adjustments, directly resolving the time loss issue while maintaining reliable compressor control.
2Speed
If multiple constant capacity compressors are started up simultaneously, then the startup process is faster, but the outdoor expansion valve cannot follow the startup sequence properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the compressor startup process by dividing compressors into constant speed and variable speed groups, with constant speed compressors activated first in a sequence that the expansion valve can follow, and the variable speed compressor adjusted afterward. This segmentation enables both fast startup and proper expansion valve response by separating the startup phases into manageable segments.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the variable speed compressor performs capacity control to vary consumed power linearly, then power consumption is optimized, but the outdoor unit takes longer to reach target capacity due to sequential constant speed compressor activation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by activating constant speed compressors first to quickly establish the base cooling or heating capacity, eliminating the need for the variable speed compressor to perform gradual capacity control adjustments. This preliminary activation of constant speed compressors allows the system to reach target capacity faster while the variable speed compressor can then be adjusted for optimal power consumption without delaying the overall startup process.
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 approach enables rapid startup of both variable and constant capacity compressors, ensuring timely operation and reducing the time required to reach target capacity, even in multi-unit systems, while ensuring the outdoor expansion valves can follow the startup sequence.
Implementation Method 1
The plural constant capacity compressors compress refrigerant in a predetermined capacity. The variable capacity compressor is capable of having its capacity changed and compressing refrigerant.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
To provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that can quickly cause a compressor to start up, an air conditioner, and a compressor startup method in an outdoor unit of an air conditioner. An outdoor unit (2a to 2c) of an air conditioner (1) is disposed with plural constant capacity compressors (27a to 27c, 28a to 28c), a variable capacity compressor (22a to 22c) and a controller (6a to 6c). The plural constant capacity compressors (27a to 27c, 28a to 28c) compress refrigerant in a predetermined capacity. The variable capacity compressor (22a to 22c) is capable of having its capacity changed and compressing refrigerant. The controller (6a to 6c) sequentially causes the plural constant capacity compressors (27a to 27c, 28a to 28c) to start up and thereafter regulates the operating frequency of the variable capacity compressor (22a to 22c).