Multi-Indoor AC Control Using Representative Temperature Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In air conditioning systems with multiple indoor units in the same indoor space, individual control inefficiencies lead to situations where some units are thermo-ON while others are thermo-OFF, resulting in suboptimal overall system efficiency despite high individual unit efficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioning system that calculates a representative temperature value based on set temperatures of indoor units and switches them between thermo-ON and thermo-OFF modes, with a control device optimizing the outdoor unit's operation to meet the highest air-conditioning capability requirement, thereby improving overall system efficiency and preventing deficiencies in air-conditioning capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If outdoor unit operation is optimized for highest air-conditioning capability requirement, then system efficiency is improved, but complexity of control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameter from individual unit temperatures to a representative temperature value that represents the aggregate state of all indoor units. This parameter transformation simplifies the control logic by providing a single reference point for determining system-wide operational states and coordinating outdoor unit performance.
2Productivity
If simultaneous switching of indoor units is implemented, then overall efficiency is improved, but loss of individual temperature control flexibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the representative temperature value based on real-time temperature readings from all indoor units. This dynamic calculation allows the system to adapt to changing thermal conditions while maintaining coordinated operation, balancing efficiency gains with necessary control flexibility.
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 system enhances overall efficiency by ensuring all indoor units are either thermo-ON or thermo-OFF simultaneously, optimizing airflow and expansion mechanism adjustments, and using centralized controllers for harmonized management, leading to improved comfort and reduced energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
an outdoor unit including a heat-source-side heat exchanger for conducting heat exchange with refrigerant circulating through the usage-side heat exchangers
Data Source
AI summary
An air conditioning system includes a plurality of indoor units installed in the same indoor space, an outdoor unit and a control device. The indoor units include respective usage-side heat exchangers capable of setting set temperatures individually. The outdoor unit includes a heat-source-side heat exchanger conducting heat exchange with refrigerant circulating through the usage-side heat exchangers. The control device calculates a representative temperature related value shared by the indoor units using the set temperatures of the indoor units, and switches the indoor units between thermo-ON and thermo-OFF based on the representative temperature related value. The control device calculates the representative temperature related value based on a plurality of temperature differences between the set temperatures and control temperatures in the indoor units.