Compressor Discharge Pressure Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CNG compressor systems lack independent control over compressor speed and output flow rate, relying on inefficient bypass valves to prevent over-pressurization, which reduces efficiency and prolongs fill times.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a feedback control loop that regulates compressor speed and flow rate based on measured discharge pressure using pressure sensors, allowing for independent control of hydraulic pump displacement or compressor speed, eliminating the need for bypass valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional CNG compressor systems use bypass valves to prevent over-pressurization, then system safety is maintained, but filling efficiency decreases and fill times are prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system using pressure sensors to continuously monitor discharge pressure and automatically regulate compressor operation. The controller receives pressure signals and adjusts the compressor accordingly, eliminating the need for bypass valves while maintaining safety and improving filling efficiency through precise, real-time control
2Reliability
If bypass valves are used to regulate pressure, then over-pressurization is prevented, but energy loss increases due to inefficient pressure regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system monitors discharge pressure in real-time and automatically adjusts compressor operation to maintain optimal pressure levels. This eliminates the energy-wasting bypass valve operation by precisely matching compressor output to actual system needs, thereby preventing over-pressurization without excessive energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operating parameters (compressor speed, discharge pressure, flow rate) based on real-time pressure feedback. By continuously adjusting these parameters to match actual demand, the system avoids the fixed, inefficient operation of bypass valves and minimizes energy loss while maintaining safe pressure control
3Device complexity
If conventional systems lack independent control over compressor speed, then system complexity is reduced, but flow rate optimization is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feedback control system with pressure sensors and controllers that automatically regulate compressor speed and flow rate based on measured discharge pressure. This adds controlled complexity that enables flow rate optimization while maintaining ease of operation through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, fixed-speed compressor operation to dynamic, variable-speed control. The compressor speed and flow rate are continuously adjusted based on real-time pressure feedback, enabling optimization of filling performance while adapting to changing system 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
This approach enables efficient and rapid filling of CNG vehicle tanks by optimizing gas flow rate and pressure, reducing energy loss and wear on the system while ensuring safety by automatically regulating gas flow to prevent over-pressurization.
Implementation Method 1
A feedback control loop may be used, in which the compressor speed may be regulated based on a measured discharge pressure of the compressor
Data Source
AI summary
In processes and systems utilizing a compressor to fill a vessel with gas, for example, in the filling of the fuel tank of a vehicle that operates on compressed natural gas (CNG), a number of advantages are realized by establishing independent control over the flow rate of gas discharged from the compressor, such as on the basis of the compressor discharge pressure, utilizing feedback from one or more gas pressure sensors. In representative embodiments, a detected or actual measured compressor discharge pressure can serve as a process variable, in a feedback control loop for regulating the output of the compressor.