Controller and Method for Controlling Operation of a Refrigerant Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerant circuits in transport refrigeration systems face inefficiencies due to limited power sources and environmental influences, leading to suboptimal energy consumption and COP (Coefficient of Performance) under power-saving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A controller optimizes the operation of refrigerant circuits by adjusting actuator settings based on predefined energy-efficient parameters, using an optimization process that varies parameter settings in small steps, monitors thermodynamic equilibrium, and adapts settings to maintain or improve energy efficiency, addressing influences like clogging and wear and tear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the refrigerant circuit is operated with fixed parameter settings, then the control system is simple, but the energy efficiency is suboptimal under varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts parameter settings based on detected environmental conditions and system state. The controller continuously monitors parameters such as temperature, pressure, and power consumption, and adapts the operation of compressors, heat exchangers, and blowers in real-time to optimize energy efficiency under varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by detecting actual parameter values during operation and comparing them with target values. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts actuator positions and operational parameters to maintain optimal energy efficiency, compensating for environmental influences and system degradation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the parameter settings are adjusted frequently to optimize energy efficiency, then the energy efficiency improves, but the wear and tear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs optimization cycles at predetermined time intervals rather than continuously adjusting parameters. During each optimization cycle, the controller varies parameter settings in small steps and evaluates energy efficiency improvements. This periodic approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions while limiting the frequency of adjustments, thereby reducing mechanical wear on actuators and moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies small incremental changes to parameter settings during optimization rather than large adjustments. By making partial adjustments in small steps and evaluating the effect of each change, the system achieves energy efficiency improvements while minimizing stress and wear on system components.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the controller optimizes multiple actuators simultaneously, then the overall energy efficiency improves, but the control complexity and computation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller divides the optimization process into separate optimization cycles for different actuators (compressor, heat releasing heat exchanger, heat absorbing heat exchanger). Each actuator is optimized independently in sequence during different time intervals, rather than attempting to optimize all actuators simultaneously. This segmentation reduces the computational complexity of each optimization cycle while still achieving overall system energy efficiency improvement through cumulative effects.
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 controller enhances energy efficiency by optimizing compressor, heat releasing, and heat absorbing heat exchanger operations, ensuring continuous energy-efficient operation and adapting to changing conditions, thereby maintaining cargo temperature within safe limits.
Implementation Method 1
a heat releasing heat exchanger heating an external medium
Implementation Method 2
a heat absorbing heat exchanger cooling a flow of gaseous medium through said heat absorbing heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
The invention refers to a controller for controlling operation of a refrigerant circuit, which refrigerant circuit comprises a compressor arrangement, a heat releasing heat exchanger heating an external medium, for example ambient air, a heat absorbing heat exchanger cooling a flow of gaseous medium through said heat absorbing heat exchanger for cooling cargo arranged in a storage volume, in particular a refrigerant circuit for transport refrigeration.