Heating and cooling systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle HVAC/R systems require continuous engine operation for cooling, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, as they lack a sophisticated control mechanism to dynamically adjust compressor speed based on real-time operating parameters.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an electric refrigerant compressor with an inverter drive and a control module on a single printed circuit board, utilizing processors to determine and actuate compressor speed commands based on temperature and pressure sensors, communicating via the SAE J1939 standard, to optimize cooling efficiency and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the engine runs continuously to provide cooling, then the cooling function is maintained, but fuel consumption increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor speed is made dynamically adjustable through an inverter drive system that can vary the motor speed based on real-time cooling demands. The control module continuously monitors temperature and pressure parameters, then adjusts the compressor speed accordingly, transitioning from static continuous operation to dynamic demand-based operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters of the compressor by controlling motor speed through frequency conversion. The inverter drive adjusts the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor, enabling the compressor to operate at optimal speeds for different cooling conditions, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable cooling.
2Device complexity
If a simple control system is used, then the system cost is reduced, but the ability to dynamically adjust compressor speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control module integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it monitors temperature sensors, reads pressure parameters, processes control algorithms, and drives the inverter output. This multi-functional integration provides sophisticated speed control capabilities without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inverter drive acts as an intermediary between the simple control module and the compressor motor. The control module generates control signals that the inverter then converts into precise motor speed commands, enabling complex speed adjustment capabilities while keeping the control module itself relatively simple.
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 enables dynamic adjustment of compressor speed, improving cooling efficiency, reducing battery discharge, and extending component life, while allowing for cost-effective and complex-free HVAC system operation.
Implementation Method 1
a refrigerant compressor including an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
a drive that is disposed on the single PCB and that includes switches that control the application of power from a battery to the electric motor
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes: a refrigerant compressor including an electric motor; a single printed circuit board (PCB); a drive that is disposed on the single PCB and that includes switches that control the application of power from a battery to the electric motor; and one or more processors disposed on the single PCB, the one or more processors configured to: determine a speed command for the refrigerant compressor based on one or more operating parameters; and actuate the switches of the drive based on the speed command.