Field normalization of air conditioning for capacity and efficiency determination compared to AHRI design conditions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The HVAC industry lacks a process for normalizing air conditioning unit performance and efficiency for field conditions, making it difficult for technicians to determine if units are operating optimally for both cooling capacity and electrical consumption, as existing methods rely on AHRI design conditions that do not account for dynamic field conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for dynamically calculating a Sensible Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) using a mobile computing device, which receives measurements from an air conditioning unit and applies correction factors based on actual conditions to compare normalized performance to rated performance, optimizing sensible capacity and efficiency by adjusting airflow and refrigerant charge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If AHRI design conditions are used for rating air conditioning units, then standardized efficiency and capacity ratings are established, but the ratings do not reflect actual field performance under dynamic operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the EER calculation based on actual operating parameters (indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, humidity ratios, airflow measurements) rather than using fixed AHRI design conditions. This allows the efficiency rating to adapt to real-world variations in operating conditions while maintaining measurement precision through standardized calculation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements dynamics by transitioning from static AHRI design condition ratings to dynamic field performance measurement. The system continuously monitors operating conditions and calculates real-time EER values that reflect actual performance, enabling adaptability to changing field conditions while maintaining measurement accuracy through standardized procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If extended performance tables and derating tables are used to estimate efficiency outside AHRI conditions, then performance estimation is provided, but the tables have wide ranges and require interpretation that reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating a digital replica of the performance measurement process through a mobile computing device that captures actual operating parameters and calculates EER values. This digital copy replaces the need for interpreting wide-range performance tables, providing both adaptability to field conditions and precise measurement through standardized calculation algorithms executed on the mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes the mechanical interpretation process of performance tables with an automated computational system. The mobile computing device automatically measures operating parameters and calculates EER values using standardized algorithms, replacing the manual interpretation of wide-range tables and thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining adaptability.
3Power
If Sensible Cooling capacity is increased to meet space temperature requirements, then cooling performance is improved, but Latent Cooling capacity is reduced which limits dehumidification capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring both sensible temperature and latent humidity conditions, then using this information to calculate a comprehensive EER value that reflects the actual balance between sensible and latent cooling requirements. This feedback mechanism enables technicians to adjust system operation to achieve optimal balance between cooling capacity and dehumidification performance based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses parameter changes by measuring and calculating separate sensible and latent cooling capacities based on actual operating conditions rather than relying on fixed design assumptions. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the sensible/latent balance to match real-world requirements, improving both cooling performance and dehumidification reliability according to actual load conditions.
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
Enables real-time optimization of air conditioning unit performance, ensuring operation at maximum sensible capacity and efficiency by continuously calculating and comparing normalized Sensible EER to rated EER, thereby improving overall system performance and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Sensible Cooling, which relates to removal of heat that can be measured with a thermometer
Implementation Method 2
Latent Cooling, which refers to removal of 'hidden heat' by the condensing of water vapor (humidity)
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are technologies pertaining to a computer-implemented system that is configured to present information to a technician who is servicing an air conditioning unit. The technologies described herein facilitate computation of a value that is indicative of operating efficiency of an air conditioning unit in its current environment and with current operating conditions.