Method and apparatus for controlling multi-module water chilling unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-module chilling units, uneven load distribution leads to compressors operating at high or low loads for extended periods, shortening their service life and reducing system performance due to differences in rated cooling capacities and varying operating loads among modules.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for controlling a multi-module chilling unit by obtaining the difference between actual and target outlet water temperatures and current compressor states, determining a target control strategy based on these conditions, and adjusting compressor operation to achieve balanced load distribution, including starting or stopping compressors as needed to maintain optimal operating points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the total cooling capacity is distributed equally to each module, then the system is simple to operate, but each compressor operates continuously in ON state shortening service life and reducing system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load distribution by continuously monitoring compressor operating states and adjusting the operating status of each module based on real-time conditions. The control system dynamically determines which compressors should be ON or OFF to balance load and extend service life, rather than using static equal distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The control method uses feedback from compressor operating states (current load, runtime, etc.) to adjust the operating status of modules. The system receives feedback on compressor performance and uses this information to make intelligent decisions about load allocation, ensuring optimal service life extension.
2Device complexity
If the total cooling capacity is distributed equally to each module, then the control method is simple, but compressors operate in low-load states reducing system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts module operating status based on real-time compressor states and cooling load requirements. This dynamic control allows compressors to operate at optimal load levels rather than fixed low-load states, significantly improving system performance while maintaining reasonable control complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If compressors in different modules have different rated cooling capacities, then the system is more adaptable to various requirements, but load distribution becomes uneven causing some compressors to operate at high loads for long periods shortening service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by treating each compressor individually based on its specific characteristics (rated capacity, current load, operating history). The control system tailors the load distribution strategy to each compressor's capabilities and state, ensuring that compressors with different rated capacities operate within optimal ranges rather than forcing uniform treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically monitors and adjusts the operating status of each compressor based on its individual state and the overall system requirements. This dynamic adjustment ensures that compressors with different capacities can coexist in the system while maintaining balanced load distribution and extending service life.
4Temperature
If compressors operate continuously to meet cooling demand, then the system maintains stable temperature control, but compressors experience shortened service life due to continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by cyclically adjusting the operating status of different compressors. When one compressor reaches a certain runtime threshold, the system switches to another compressor, creating a periodic rotation that extends overall service life while maintaining continuous cooling capacity and temperature stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback on compressor runtime and operating state to make intelligent switching decisions. This feedback mechanism ensures that compressors are rotated before reaching excessive runtime, extending service life while maintaining stable temperature control through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for controlling a multi-module water chilling unit. The multi-module water chilling unit comprises at least two modules, and each module is provided with a chilled-water inlet and a corresponding chilled-water outlet, and each module is provided with a compressor, and chilled water output from each module is converged in a main pipe through a corresponding compressor. The method comprises: obtaining a difference between an actual outlet water temperature and a target outlet water temperature of the main pipe; obtaining current operating states of the compressors of the modules; determining a target control strategy for the modules according to the difference and the current operating states; and controlling the modules to operate according to the target control strategy.