Compressor Coolant Bypass Control for Condensation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor devices face inefficiencies in controlling the temperature of the gas/coolant separation tank, leading to excessive energy consumption and reduced coolant lifespan due to high temperatures, and often fail to prevent condensation under varying operating conditions, resulting in compromised cooling capacity and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A compressor device with a thermostat block that includes two thermostatic shut-off valves, allowing coolant to flow through a bypass or cooler based on temperature settings determined by decision tables, ensuring the tank temperature remains above condensation point only when necessary, thus optimizing energy use and coolant longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tank temperature is set to a fixed temperature above the maximum possible condensation temperature, then condensation is prevented, but energy consumption increases and coolant lifespan decreases due to excessive cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic temperature control by introducing a second thermostatic shut-off valve that automatically adjusts the coolant bypass ratio based on actual tank temperature. This replaces the fixed temperature setting with a dynamic system that adapts to varying operating conditions, reducing energy consumption while maintaining condensation prevention only when necessary
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature parameter from a fixed value to a variable value that adapts to operating conditions. By using two thermostatic valves with different setting temperatures, the system automatically adjusts the effective temperature control parameter based on actual needs, preventing condensation only when the temperature would otherwise drop below the dew point
2Reliability
If the tank temperature is set to a fixed temperature above the maximum possible condensation temperature, then condensation is prevented, but coolant lifespan decreases due to high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic control system adjusts coolant flow and temperature based on actual operating conditions, maintaining higher coolant temperatures for longer periods when condensation risk is low. This reduces thermal degradation of the coolant and extends its service life, while still preventing condensation when necessary through the second thermostatic valve
3Use of energy by moving object
If electronic control systems are used to optimize temperature control, then energy consumption and coolant lifespan are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-regulating thermostatic shut-off valves that automatically adjust coolant flow based on temperature feedback without requiring external electronic control. The valves use the thermal properties of the coolant itself to control the bypass ratio, eliminating the need for complex electronic sensors, controllers, and power systems while achieving optimal temperature management
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostatic shut-off valves act as mechanical intermediaries that translate temperature conditions into appropriate coolant flow adjustments. These valves mediate between the tank temperature and the coolant supply, providing intelligent control through pure thermal-mechanical means without electronic intervention
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 solution provides more control flexibility, reduces energy consumption, and extends coolant lifespan by maintaining optimal temperatures, preventing condensation only when required, and allowing for easy manual adjustments without complex electronic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first thermostatic shut-off valve (25) having a sensor element (33) and actuating means (27, 31, 39) for the first shut-off valve (25), the actuating means (27, 31, 39) being responsive to the sensor element (33)
Implementation Method 2
a second thermostatic shut-off valve (26) having a sensor element (34) and actuating means (28, 32, 39) for the second shut-off valve (26), the actuating means (28, 32, 39) being responsive to the sensor element (34)
Implementation Method 3
coolant can flow only through the cooler (10) or thus indirectly
Data Source
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AI summary
Compressor device that comprises a compressor element (2) that is equipped with a compression chamber with at least one coolant inlet (8), and which furthermore comprises a gas outlet (4), a gas/coolant separation tank (5) connected to it, and, a cooling circuit with a cooler (10) that extends between the separation tank (5) and the coolant inlet (8), and which is equipped with control means to adjust the temperature of the coolant flow supplied to the compressor element (2), whereby the aforementioned control means comprise a first and a second sub-controller (25-26), each with a different target parameter, whereby the control means (25-26) also comprise switching means (37-38) to place one of the two sub-controllers (25-26) in an activated state and the other sub-controller (25-26) in a deactivated state.