Modular Air Source Heat Pump with Dynamic Refrigerant Charge Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air source heat pump systems are limited to smaller applications and lack the scalability to efficiently handle larger spaces, necessitating a modular and adaptable solution for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular air source heat pump system with quick connectors, sensors, and a control system that allows for real-time connection and disconnection of components, enabling adaptive operation and efficient monitoring and control of heat transfer fluid charge based on environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional non-modular air source heat pump system is used, then the system structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the system cannot be scaled to accommodate larger spaces and has limited adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The air source heat pump system is divided into multiple modular components (compressor modules, condenser modules, evaporator modules, expansion valve modules) that can be independently manufactured and connected through quick connectors. This segmentation enables the system to be scaled by adding or removing modules while maintaining simple manufacturing processes for each individual component.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with standardized interfaces and quick connectors that allow the same basic modules to serve multiple functions in different configurations. For example, compressor modules can be added in series or parallel depending on heating/cooling load requirements, and the same module type can be used throughout the system providing universal applicability.
2Ease of operation
If system components are connected permanently, then the system structure is stable and reliable, but the system cannot be easily modified, expanded, or maintained without downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic reconfigurable connection through quick connectors. These connectors allow modules to be rapidly connected and disconnected without tools or specialized equipment, enabling the system to be dynamically adjusted for maintenance, expansion, or reconfiguration while minimizing downtime and maintaining operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Individual modules can be easily extracted from the system through the quick connector interfaces. This extraction capability allows faulty modules to be removed for repair or replacement without affecting the operation of remaining modules, thereby improving serviceability while maintaining overall system reliability through continuous operation of functional components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If system components are disconnected frequently, then the system is highly adaptable and serviceable, but connection stability and system reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connectors provide a dynamic connection solution that maintains stability during operation while enabling rapid reconfiguration when needed. The connectors are designed with locking mechanisms and sealed interfaces that ensure reliable, leak-free connections during normal operation, while allowing quick disconnection and reconnection for maintenance or expansion without compromising connection integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system size is fixed during manufacturing, then manufacturing precision and quality control are easier to maintain, but the system cannot adapt to changing space requirements or environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into standardized modular components, each module can be manufactured with consistent precision using the same production processes and quality control measures. The modular design allows precise manufacturing of individual units that are then assembled into systems of varying sizes, maintaining manufacturing precision while achieving adaptability through configuration rather than custom manufacturing.
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 modular system enhances serviceability, reliability, and scalability, allowing for seamless expansion or reduction of components without downtime, improving energy efficiency and adaptability to changing environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Heat pumps can absorb external heat and release the heat to internal areas (or vice versa) leveraging the same or similar vapor-compression processes that conventional air conditioning systems use.
Implementation Method 2
Heat pumps can absorb external heat and release the heat to internal areas
Implementation Method 3
The refrigerant module is removably connected to the external assembly... change a heat transfer fluid charge in the internal assembly, the external assembly or both by adding or subtracting heat transfer fluid from the refrigerant module
Data Source
AI summary
The present teachings provide a modular air source heat pump system (ASHP system) with an internal assembly, an external assembly, a refrigerant module, sensors, and a control system. The refrigerant module is removably connected to the external assembly. The sensors are located within the internal assembly and configured to monitor internal conditions, internal system conditions, or both. The sensors are located within the external assembly and configured to monitor external conditions, external system conditions, or both. The control system in communication with the sensors located within the internal assembly and the external assembly. The control system is configured to: change a heat transfer fluid charge in the internal assembly, the external assembly, or both by adding or subtracting heat transfer fluid from the refrigerant module in response to changes in the external conditions, the external system conditions, the internal conditions, the internal system conditions, or a combination thereof.