Multi-feed chiller-heater production module and method of controlling the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVACR systems face complexity and inefficiency in connecting and controlling multiple production modules with building automation systems, leading to labor-intensive customization, non-uniform wiring, and time-consuming installations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of packaged heating and/or cooling units with integrated controllers that connect to a piping distribution system and receive signals from a building automation system to selectively control connection to hot or cold fluid circuits, allowing independent operation based on heating or cooling requirements, thereby simplifying the connection and control process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple production modules are connected with extensive customization for a particular installation, then the system can be robust and customized for the specific building, but the installation becomes labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular production modules, each with integrated controllers that can independently connect to the building automation system. This segmentation allows each module to be pre-configured and tested separately, reducing on-site customization time while maintaining system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Controllers are pre-programmed with necessary configuration data before installation. This preliminary action eliminates the need for extensive manual programming during installation, significantly reducing installation time while preserving the ability to customize system behavior through pre-configured parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual programming and custom installation elements are performed for each unit, then the system can be tailored to specific requirements, but the installation becomes non-uniform and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal interface that can handle multiple functions and communication protocols. It provides standardized connection methods that work across different production modules and building automation systems, ensuring uniform installation practices while maintaining the ability to tailor system behavior through configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of custom hardware wiring for each installation, the system uses parameter changes in software configuration to adapt to different building requirements. This allows the same physical hardware to be tailored to specific needs through programmable parameters, maintaining installation uniformity while preserving adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive customization is performed for connecting production modules to the building automation system, then the system can meet specific installation requirements, but the installation becomes labor-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically performs self-configuration and self-diagnosis upon connection to the building automation system. This self-service capability eliminates the need for extensive manual programming and customization work, significantly improving installation efficiency while maintaining the ability to adapt to different building requirements through automated configuration processes.
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
This solution enhances the performance, efficiency, and operability of HVACR systems by reducing installation time and costs, improving repeatability and standardization, and providing a more responsive control mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a heat pump configured to provide heating and/or cooling to the fluid
Implementation Method 2
thermal energy is exchanged with an ambient fluid in the environment
Implementation Method 3
a pump configured to pump a fluid through the packaged heating and/or cooling unit
Data Source
AI summary
A packaged heating and/or cooling unit for a production module for a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) system. The packaged unit includes a heat pump configured to provide heating and/or cooling; a connection to a piping distribution system to selectively connect to a hot fluid circuit and/or a cold fluid circuit; and a controller. The controller is configured to connect to and receive a signal from a building automation system for a heating requirement or a cooling requirement, and further configured to selectively control connection to either the hot fluid circuit or the cold fluid circuit and independently control the packaged heating and/or cooling unit based on the signal from the building automation system for either the heating requirement or the cooling requirement.