System and method for evaporator outlet temperature control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling the outlet temperature of evaporators with multiple tube bundles are complex and expensive to maintain due to high sensor counts and data processing requirements, leading to inefficiencies in temperature control across the evaporator outlets.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that computes an outlet temperature setpoint for the evaporator based on measured temperatures of each tube bundle, adjusts this setpoint by comparing to the highest temperature, and regulates fluid flow through control valves to minimize temperature deviations across the evaporator outlets, using a processor to manage the control logic and valve positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If separate control of each evaporator tube bundle is implemented, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple evaporator tube bundles into a single control unit with a common outlet temperature setpoint. Instead of independently controlling each bundle, the system treats them as one integrated system, reducing the number of control loops and simplifying the overall control architecture while maintaining adequate temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements a universal setpoint for all evaporator tube bundles, where a single outlet temperature setpoint applies to multiple bundles. This multi-functional approach allows one control parameter to regulate the performance of several bundles simultaneously, reducing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If individual flow measurement for each tube bundle is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement function for multiple tube bundles by implementing a single flow measurement at the common inlet or outlet. This consolidated measurement approach provides sufficient data for control purposes without requiring individual sensors on each bundle, thereby reducing the total sensor count and system complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 3
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments are directed to systems and methods for controlling an outlet temperature of an evaporator having a plurality of evaporator tube bundles, in which a processor is configured to compute an outlet temperature setpoint for the evaporator based on outlet temperatures of each of the plurality of evaporator tube bundles. The processor also regulates fluid flow through at least one of the evaporator tube bundles to reduce deviation between the outlet temperature of the evaporator and the outlet temperature setpoint for the evaporator.