Air Conditioner Outdoor Unit Fan Control Using Wind Direction Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Air conditioner outdoor units with fan positions fixed, leading to low utilization of wind energy due to inability to adjust fan position according to wind direction, resulting in inefficient power generation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling the air conditioner outdoor unit that acquires working mode and sensor parameters, such as wind direction and temperature, to determine control parameters for adjusting the fan's rotating speed and wind direction, allowing optimal orientation of the vent for improved wind energy utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the fan position is fixed in the air conditioner outdoor unit, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the utilization ratio of wind energy is low because the fan cannot be adjusted according to wind direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the fan position adjustable rather than fixed. The fan can rotate to different angles and positions to face the wind direction, transforming from a static configuration to a dynamic one that adapts to changing wind conditions, thereby improving wind energy utilization without requiring complete structural redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the fan to serve dual purposes: traditional air conditioning operation and wind energy generation. By allowing the fan to adjust its position and rotate, it can optimize for either cooling/heating functions or power generation mode, making the same component versatile across different operating scenarios
2Productivity
If the fan position is adjusted according to wind direction, then the power generation efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control by using wind direction sensors to detect the incoming wind direction and feeding this information back to the control system. The controller then adjusts the fan angle and position based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop system that automatically optimizes power generation efficiency without requiring complex manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting wind direction and adjusting fan position without external intervention. The control system autonomously manages the fan orientation based on sensor inputs, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms while maintaining high power generation efficiency
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fan can rotate to face the wind, then the wind energy utilization is maximized, but the mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fan assembly into separable components: the fan blade, the rotating hub, and the mounting structure. This modular approach allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while enabling the fan to rotate and orient toward the wind for maximized energy capture
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
Enhances the utilization ratio of wind energy by adjusting the fan's orientation based on wind direction, improving power generation efficiency while maintaining the existing structure of the air conditioner outdoor unit.
Implementation Method 1
sensor parameters include wind direction parameters read by a wind direction sensor
Implementation Method 2
temperature parameters read by a temperature sensor
Implementation Method 3
air conditioners with power generated by breeze
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling an air conditioner outdoor unit comprises: acquiring the working mode of the air conditioner outdoor unit; acquiring sensor parameters of the air conditioner outdoor unit according to the working mode, the sensor parameters including wind direction parameters read by a wind direction sensor (163) or temperature parameters read by a temperature sensor (161); determining control parameters for the air conditioner outdoor unit by the working mode and the sensor parameters corresponding to the working mode; driving the rotating speed of a fan (121) and the rotating angle of a wind direction adjusting device (125) by use of the control parameters. In addition, a control system for the air conditioner outdoor unit is also related to.