Compressor Clutch Control Circuit Without Relay and Diodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional compressor control circuits for vehicles are complex, requiring numerous parts and components, leading to increased costs and potential apparatus failures due to the need for relay switches and diodes to manage power supply and surge voltage.
Innovation Solution
A simplified compressor control apparatus and method that eliminates the relay switch and diodes by using a microcomputer and switch within the controller to directly control the electromagnetic coil of the compressor clutch, optimizing the circuit and reducing the number of parts, with the microcomputer determining engagement and disengagement conditions based on detected air conditioner operation states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a relay switch and diodes are used to control the compressor clutch, then the compressor can be controlled to engage and disengage, but the circuit becomes complex and the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the relay switch functionality and diode protection circuits into the controller unit. The controller's internal switching elements and protection circuits replace the external relay switch and diodes, merging multiple components into a single integrated control unit, thereby simplifying the overall circuit structure while maintaining control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the protection function from separate diode components and integrates it into the controller's internal protection circuits. The controller includes built-in protection against surge voltage and back electromotive force, eliminating the need for external diodes and reducing circuit complexity
2Ease of operation
If relay switches and diodes are used in the compressor control circuit, then power supply control is achieved, but the cost of parts and assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply control function and protection functions into the controller unit. By integrating the relay switch and diode functions into the controller's internal circuits, the system reduces the number of separate components that need to be sourced, assembled, and tested, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the compressor clutch engagement and disengagement, provides surge voltage protection, and handles back electromotive force. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall system cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components (relay switch, diodes) are used for compressor control, then control functions are achieved, but the risk of apparatus failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control and protection functions into the controller unit. By integrating the relay switch, diodes, and control logic into a single controller, the system reduces the number of connection points and potential failure sites. Fewer separate components mean fewer opportunities for connection failures and component malfunctions, thereby improving overall reliability
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 simplifies the compressor control circuit, reduces costs, and minimizes the risk of apparatus failures by directly controlling clutch engagement and disengagement within the controller, eliminating the need for relay switches and diodes, thereby enhancing circuit stability and reducing the number of components.
Implementation Method 1
The clutch 31 connects the compressor 30 and an engine (not shown) such that power transmission is possible using magnetomotive force induced by current
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor control apparatus and method includes: a sensor configured to detect air conditioner operation state information necessary to control engagement and disengagement of a clutch of an air conditioner compressor; an electromagnetic coil in the clutch of the air conditioner compressor configured to perform clutch engagement upon receiving battery current; a microcomputer configured to determine whether the current air conditioner operation state satisfies a clutch engagement allowance condition or a clutch disengagement condition based on the air conditioner operation state information detected by the sensor and to output an operation signal based on the result of determination; and a switch configured to be turned on or off according to the operation signal output by the microcomputer and to control supply of the battery current to the electromagnetic coil such that clutch engagement or clutch disengagement is performed.