Compressor Power Control via Energy Source Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive climate control systems with variable capacity compressors face challenges in optimizing power consumption to minimize impact on fuel economy, as existing systems lack efficient control mechanisms to adapt to varying energy sources and their costs.
Innovation Solution
The system controls power consumption by adjusting operating parameters such as target evaporator temperature, compressor speed, and power limits based on the energy source, using sensors and controllers to determine the cheapest energy source and optimize performance and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the compressor operates at high power to meet cooling demands, then cooling performance is improved, but fuel economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts compressor operating parameters (speed, displacement, pressure ratio) based on real-time energy source identification and cost assessment. The controller continuously modifies compressor operation to match cooling demands with the most economical energy source available, transitioning between fixed and variable speed modes as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including compressor speed, displacement, and pressure ratio based on identified energy sources and their relative costs. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes the balance between cooling performance and energy consumption, selecting operating points that minimize fuel economy impact when using expensive energy sources.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the compressor speed is varied to optimize energy usage, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs multiple functions using a single integrated controller: it identifies energy sources, assesses their costs, determines optimal operating parameters, and executes control commands. This multi-functionality approach avoids the need for separate dedicated systems for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors compressor operation, energy source availability, and cooling demands. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts compressor parameters in real-time, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy efficiency without requiring overly complex open-loop control mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the compressor operates at full capacity to meet cooling demands, then cooling performance is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by operating the compressor at less than full capacity when cooling demands can be met with lower power consumption. The controller assesses whether full compressor capacity is necessary or if partial operation suffices, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate cooling performance. This principle allows the system to avoid excessive power usage when full capacity is not required.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling power consumption of a compressor of an automotive vehicle climate system may include identifying an energy source providing energy to power the compressor and selecting an operating parameter of the climate system based on the identified energy source to control power consumption of the compressor.