System and method for a compressor dome temperature sensor location verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges in ensuring the proper location of temperature sensors relative to the compressor, which can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and potential overheating, as existing technologies lack effective methods to verify or correct sensor placement in real-time.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that utilizes multiple temperature sensors to compare and verify the compressor dome temperature sensor's location, with a controller adjusting the HVAC operation to prevent overheating by initiating shutdowns, reducing compressor runtime, or altering power consumption if the sensor is found to be improperly placed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single compressor dome temperature sensor is used, then the system structure remains simple, but the sensor location cannot be verified leading to inaccurate temperature readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using multiple temperature sensors positioned at different locations (dome, crankcase, discharge line, suction line) to monitor specific local temperature conditions. Each sensor provides localized temperature data that, when compared, verifies the proper installation and function of the dome sensor, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring a single overly complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously comparing temperature readings from the dome sensor with readings from other sensors (crankcase, discharge line, suction line). The controller analyzes these comparative readings to determine if the dome sensor is properly located and functioning, providing real-time verification and enabling corrective action if installation errors are detected.
2Reliability
If multiple temperature sensors are added to verify sensor location, then measurement accuracy improves, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using multiple temperature sensors that serve dual purposes: they verify the location and function of the dome sensor while simultaneously providing actual temperature monitoring data for compressor protection. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve reliable sensor verification without the need for separate verification mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by using the temperature sensors themselves to verify their own proper installation and function. The dome sensor's readings are automatically compared against readings from other sensors in the system, allowing the system to self-diagnose installation errors without requiring external verification equipment or manual checking procedures.
3Reliability
If the HVAC system continuously monitors and compares temperature readings, then sensor installation errors are detected, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing a tiered monitoring approach where the controller first checks for basic installation errors using simple threshold comparisons, and only performs more complex analysis when initial checks indicate potential issues. This selective monitoring level reduces processing complexity while maintaining reliable detection of sensor installation errors and compressor protection.
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 ensures the compressor operates within safe temperature limits by accurately verifying sensor placement, preventing damage and maintaining efficient system performance.
Implementation Method 1
a compressor dome temperature sensor
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of additional temperature sensors
Implementation Method 3
comparing information from the compressor dome temperature sensor and the plurality of additional temperatures sensors indicating a likelihood that the compressor dome temperature sensor is not properly located
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed herein that include controlling operation of a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system that utilizes information from a plurality of temperature sensors to monitor, verify, determine, and/or discover whether a temperature sensor is properly located in proximity to a dome of a compressor of the HVAC system. When the HVAC system determines that the temperature sensor associated with the dome of the compressor is not properly located, the HVAC system may initiate a shutdown of the compressor and/or other components of the HVAC system, generate a signal, present a message, and/or otherwise provide a notification of the improper temperature sensor placement, and/or reduce a runtime of the compressor, operate the compressor at a lower speed, reduce a power consumption of the compressor, and/or otherwise control the compressor and/or associated components to effectuate a reduced compressor dome temperature.