Device for controlling the temperature of an external fluid, an operating method thereof, and a computer program product comprising such method instructions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Devices for controlling the temperature of external fluids face challenges in accurate control due to compressor start-stop delays, leading to wear and maintenance issues, and struggle to maintain precise temperature control without disrupting compressor operation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a second heat exchanger in a bypass circuit and a controller to manage valve positions, allowing for continuous compressor operation without thermal energy transfer when needed, enabling instantaneous temperature adjustments and minimizing compressor risk of overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the compressor operates in start-stop mode to control thermal energy transfer, then the device structure is simple, but the temperature control accuracy deteriorates due to startup delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: start-stop mode for energy efficiency and continuous mode for accurate temperature control. The controller monitors temperature deviations and automatically transitions the compressor to continuous operation when accuracy is compromised by startup delays, then switches back to start-stop mode when temperature stability is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic monitoring of temperature deviations and transitions between operational modes based on predefined thresholds. When the temperature deviation exceeds a threshold, the compressor switches to continuous operation; when stability is achieved, it returns to periodic start-stop operation, creating a rhythmic control pattern that balances accuracy and efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the compressor operates in start-stop mode, then energy consumption is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to increased wear and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts compressor operation based on actual temperature control needs. Instead of rigid start-stop operation, the controller continuously evaluates whether continuous operation is necessary to maintain temperature accuracy, thereby reducing unnecessary startup cycles and associated wear while maintaining energy efficiency where possible.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses feedback from temperature sensors to determine when continuous compressor operation is necessary. By monitoring temperature deviations and predicting upcoming control demands, the system avoids frequent start-stop cycles that cause wear, maintaining continuous operation only when required for accuracy or anticipated temperature adjustments.
3Reliability
If the compressor operates continuously without thermal energy transfer, then reliability improves by avoiding startup wear, but device complexity increases due to the bypass circuit and valve control system
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass circuit and control valves serve multiple functions: enabling continuous compressor operation without thermal transfer, providing a pathway for internal fluid circulation, and facilitating rapid transition between operational modes. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating several control needs into a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass circuit acts as an intermediary pathway that allows the compressor to operate continuously by providing an alternative route for internal fluid circulation that bypasses the heat exchanger. This mediator component enables continuous operation without direct thermal transfer while maintaining system integrity and control flexibility.
4Measurement precision
If the compressor operates continuously with thermal energy transfer, then temperature control accuracy improves, but the compressor may overheat and suffer damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fluid circulation path into two distinct routes: a thermal transfer path through the heat exchanger for accurate temperature control, and a bypass path through the second heat exchanger for cooling without thermal transfer. This segmentation allows the compressor to operate continuously while selecting the appropriate path based on whether heating or cooling is required, preventing overheating.
Solution Approach 2:
The second heat exchanger serves as an intermediary cooling device that provides a thermal management pathway independent of the primary temperature control function. It acts as a mediator between the compressor and the thermal load, enabling continuous compressor operation by providing alternative cooling when the primary heat exchanger would cause overheating.
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
The solution achieves accurate temperature control of external fluids with minimal delay and reduced compressor wear, ensuring reliable operation and maintaining internal fluid conditions within predetermined ranges, suitable for applications like blood temperature control.
Implementation Method 1
a first heat exchanger in a temperature control circuit for transferring thermal energy between the internal fluid and the external fluid
Implementation Method 2
a compressor for compressing an internal fluid
Implementation Method 3
a second heat exchanger connected, preferably in parallel with the compressor, between an inlet and an outlet of the compressor in a bypass circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling the temperature of an external fluid. The device including a compressor for compressing an internal fluid, a first heat exchanger in a temperature control circuit for transferring thermal energy between the internal fluid and the external fluid. The device is further configured for use within a system for controlling the temperature of blood.