Image processing system and method for air conditioning system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems using rotary sorbent technology face challenges in accurately monitoring and controlling the operating conditions of the rotor, leading to inefficiencies and potential maintenance issues due to non-uniform moisture and temperature profiles across the rotor.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an image processing system that captures images of the rotor using an image sensor and analyzes them with an image processor, employing an artificial neural network to detect anomalous operating conditions such as seal leaks or uneven reactivation, allowing for real-time adjustments and maintenance alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensors and control systems are used to monitor rotor operating conditions, then the system structure remains simple, but the measurement precision and detection capability are insufficient to accurately identify non-uniform moisture and temperature profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based sensors with an optical imaging system. The image sensor captures visual information of the rotor surface, and image processing algorithms analyze the images to detect moisture and temperature variations. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact with the rotor, reducing measurement interference while improving detection precision and enabling non-invasive monitoring of operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image processing algorithms and artificial neural networks as intermediaries between the image sensor and the control system. These software-based intermediaries process the raw image data to extract meaningful information about moisture distribution and temperature profiles, enabling accurate detection without adding complex hardware components to the physical system
2Reliability
If the rotor operates continuously without monitoring, then the system productivity is maintained, but anomalies such as seal leaks or uneven reactivation are not detected, leading to reduced reliability and increased maintenance needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the image sensor continuously monitors the rotor surface, the image processing system analyzes the captured images to detect anomalies such as seal leaks or uneven reactivation, and the control system receives this information to adjust operating parameters in real-time. This closed-loop feedback enables early detection of issues, improving reliability while maintaining productivity through preventive rather than reactive management
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of potential problems by continuously imaging the rotor surface during operation. By identifying anomalies such as moisture accumulation patterns or temperature variations before they develop into major failures, the system can take preliminary corrective actions to prevent downtime, thereby improving both reliability and productivity
3Manufacturing precision
If reactivation air is applied uniformly across the rotor, then the control system remains simple, but the non-uniform moisture and temperature profiles cannot be effectively addressed, reducing manufacturing precision of the dehumidification process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality control by using image processing to identify specific regions on the rotor surface with non-uniform moisture or temperature profiles. Based on this spatial information, the control system can apply reactivation air selectively to problematic areas rather than uniformly across the entire rotor. This localized approach improves process precision by addressing specific deficiencies while minimizing energy waste on already-adequate regions
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing system divides the rotor surface into multiple zones based on detected moisture and temperature variations. Each zone can then be monitored and controlled independently, allowing the system to apply different reactivation strategies to different segments of the rotor. This segmentation enables precise control of the dehumidification process while maintaining a relatively simple overall system architecture
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing system for an air conditioning system, an air conditioning system, and a method of detecting anomalies an air conditioning system. An image processor of the image processing system or air conditioning system is configured to receive an image of at least a portion of a rotor in the air conditioning system. The image processor is also configured to analyze, using an image analysis process executed by the image processor the image to determine an operating condition of the rotor. The image analysis process is configured to detect at least one anomalous operating condition of the rotor, and when the image processor identifies the at least one anomalous operating condition, the image processor is configured to generate an output corresponding to the anomalous operating condition.