Method and system for improving refrigeration system efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional commercial refrigeration systems are inefficient due to fixed operating settings that fail to accommodate varying ambient temperatures and pressures, leading to excessive power consumption.

Innovation Solution

An electronically controlled refrigeration system that monitors and adjusts expansion valves, compressor motors, and condenser fans based on ambient conditions to optimize power usage and maintain desired cooling conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by stationary object

If traditional fixed operating settings are used for compressors and expansion valves, then the system operates reliably under standard conditions, but power consumption increases excessively when ambient temperatures vary

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidadaptability to ambient temperature variations

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of compressor motors and expansion valves based on real-time monitoring of ambient temperatures and system pressures. The controller adjusts compressor motor speed and expansion valve positioning dynamically to match changing environmental conditions, replacing fixed operating settings with adaptive variable control that optimizes power consumption across different ambient temperature ranges

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor ambient temperatures, compressor discharge pressures, and expansion valve pressures. This feedback is processed by a controller that automatically adjusts compressor motor operation and expansion valve positioning to maintain optimal efficiency. The feedback loop enables the system to respond to environmental changes and correct deviations from optimal operating parameters, resolving the contradiction between fixed settings and adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If pre-determined compressor and expansion valve settings are used, then the system structure remains simple, but the system cannot accommodate changes in ambient conditions efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverange of operating conditionsVSAvoidsystem control complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The refrigeration system performs self-adjustment through automated control of compressor motors and expansion valves based on sensor feedback. The controller automatically modifies operating parameters without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems. This self-service capability enables the system to adapt to varying ambient conditions while maintaining relatively simple overall system architecture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical control mechanisms with electronic control systems. Sensors and electronic controllers monitor system conditions and adjust compressor motor speed and expansion valve positioning electronically, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and manual adjustment mechanisms. This substitution enables adaptable control while keeping the physical system structure relatively simple

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 reduces overall power consumption, extends the lifespan of components, and adapts to temperature variations, providing efficient cooling with reduced energy costs.

Implementation Method 1

one or more expansion valves configured to reduce a pressure of the system fluid from a head pressure to a suction pressure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure reduction: Pressure Drop

Implementation Method 2

an evaporator configured to cool the refrigerated area

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEvaporation: Evaporation

Implementation Method 3

the evaporator configured to convert the liquid-vapor mix to a second vapor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat absorption: Absorption (physical)

Implementation Method 4

one or more compressors configured to receive the second vapor, compress the second vapor, and discharge the first vapor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS11466911B2Method and system for improving refrigeration system efficiency

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 DC ENG P C

AI summary

A method and system for improving energy efficiency of a refrigeration system include system components such as a condenser, one or more expansion valves, an evaporator, one or more compressors, and a system controller electrically coupled to the one or more of the system components, according to one embodiment. The system controller is configured to selectively actuate, directly or indirectly, the one or more expansion valves, the condenser, and/or the one or more compressors, at least partially based on temperatures and/or pressures of the system fluid at various points of the system, to control a temperature of a refrigerated area.