Fixed orifice refrigerant distribution system
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face limitations in varying indoor space temperatures due to the use of central heat exchangers, leading to increased space requirements for multiple separate systems, and ducted systems struggle to meet different occupants' needs without compromising efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A fixed orifice expansion device with multiple fixed orifices is introduced, which can be installed in packaged or split HVAC systems, providing a customizable pressure drop for refrigerant flow to the evaporator coil, allowing for more efficient temperature control and reduced space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate heat exchangers are installed to serve different indoor spaces, then each space can be independently controlled, but the space requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the refrigerant distribution system into multiple circuits with individual expansion devices for each evaporator coil. Each circuit can be independently controlled to serve different indoor spaces with different temperature requirements, while sharing a common condenser and compressor, thereby reducing the need for multiple separate outdoor units
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional HVAC system where a single outdoor unit with a common condenser serves multiple indoor spaces through multiple evaporator coils and expansion devices. This universal system can simultaneously provide heating and cooling to different zones, replacing the need for multiple dedicated systems
2Area of stationary object
If a single central heat exchanger is used, then space requirements are reduced, but the ability to vary temperatures in different indoor spaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerant distribution manifold is segmented into multiple outlets, each connected to a separate evaporator coil and expansion device. This segmentation allows independent temperature control for different indoor spaces while maintaining a single centralized outdoor unit
Solution Approach 2:
Each circuit in the multi-circuit system has locally optimized expansion devices and evaporator coils sized and configured for the specific heating or cooling requirements of each indoor space, enabling localized temperature control while sharing common components
3Device complexity
If fixed orifices are used for refrigerant distribution, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide desired pressure drop for different circuits is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion device is segmented into multiple independent fixed orifices, each with a specific size and configuration optimized for its corresponding evaporator circuit. This segmentation allows each orifice to provide the appropriate pressure drop for its circuit while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Different fixed orifices with varying parameters (size, shape, length) are used in different circuits to achieve the desired pressure drop characteristics for each specific evaporator coil, allowing customization without increasing device complexity
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 fixed orifice expansion device enhances the ability of HVAC systems to vary indoor space temperatures, reducing the need for multiple outdoor units and improving temperature control efficiency, while also minimizing space usage.
Implementation Method 1
The multiple fixed orifices align with refrigerant distribution tubes to an evaporator coil. The fixed orifices restrict flow and create pressure drop of refrigerant flowing from the manifold into the refrigerant distribution tubes through the orifices.
Data Source
AI summary
An HVAC system having a fixed orifice expansion device coupled to an evaporator coil is provided. In one embodiment, an expansion device coupled to an evaporator coil includes a flow restrictor and an evaporator inlet manifold. The flow restrictor includes multiple fixed orifices aligned with the refrigerant distribution tubes to restrict flow of refrigerant from the evaporator inlet manifold into the refrigerant distribution tubes through the multiple fixed orifices. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.