Single Inverter Control for Dual Compressor Current and Voltage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor controlling systems are limited in their ability to simultaneously or separately control multiple compressors using a single inverter, which restricts the flexibility in managing varying loads and cooling capacities, and can lead to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A compressor controlling apparatus and method that utilizes a single inverter with multiple switching elements, a converter, smoothing unit, and a controller to detect and manage currents and voltages of multiple compressors, allowing for simultaneous or separate operation of at least two compressors, thereby optimizing their strokes and frequencies based on load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single inverter is used to control multiple compressors, then device complexity is reduced and cost is lowered, but the ability to separately detect and control each compressor's operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control of multiple compressors by providing separate current detection units and voltage detection units for each compressor, even though they share a common inverter. This allows independent measurement of electrical parameters for each compressor motor, enabling separate control and monitoring of each compressor's operation without requiring separate inverters.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inverter is designed to perform multiple functions by controlling multiple compressor motors simultaneously. The inverter can operate in different modes (separate control or simultaneous control of multiple compressors) and serves as a universal control device that replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate inverter units, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate control of multiple compressors is implemented, then adaptability to varying loads and cooling capacities is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controlling apparatus provides dynamic control capabilities by allowing the system to switch between different operation modes: separate control mode where each compressor can be independently controlled based on its own load requirements, and simultaneous control mode where multiple compressors operate together. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to respond flexibly to varying cooling capacities and load conditions without requiring a fixed complex configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by using detected current and voltage information from each compressor to adjust and optimize compressor operations. The controller uses real-time electrical parameter measurements to monitor compressor performance and adjust operating conditions, enabling adaptive control that responds to actual load demands while maintaining efficient system operation.
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 minimizes element usage, enhances system efficiency, simplifies configuration, and reduces costs by enabling multiple operation modes based on load or cooling capacity, while ensuring precise control of compressor operations.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter including a plurality of switching elements and to switch direct current (DC) power into driving power for at least one of the first compressor and the second compressor according to a control signal
Implementation Method 2
a compressor controlling apparatus detects voltage and current applied to a compressor motor and estimates a stroke according to a stroke sensorless method
Implementation Method 3
The linear motor directly generates linear driving force by itself, without the need of a mechanical conversion device
Data Source
AI summary
A machine includes at least two compressors that is controlled by a compressor controlling apparatus. By using an inverter for the at least two compressors, the use of elements is minimized and the compressor capacity may be increased, and the operation efficiency of the system may be enhanced. As an example, a plurality of operation modes may be used according to a load or cooling capacity of the two compressors. The two compressors are separately or simultaneously operated by using the inverter, thus simplifying the configuration of the system, and reducing cost.