Refrigeration cycle apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigeration cycle apparatuses struggle to accurately determine the source of abnormalities, as differences between measured and set values can be attributed to either the structural components or the sensors measuring them.
Innovation Solution
A refrigeration cycle apparatus with a controller that sets a specific operation mode to determine abnormality by changing the state of one element device at a time, allowing for the identification of issues in the compressor, heat-source-side heat exchanger, pressure-reducing device, and use-side heat exchanger by analyzing parameter changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed operation states of structural components are monitored using set values and measured values, then abnormality detection capability is improved, but the ability to determine the specific source of abnormality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the abnormality detection process into multiple independent test modes, each targeting specific component groups. By dividing the monitoring system into separate test sequences (first test mode for compressor/pressure-reducing device, second test mode for heat exchangers), the system can isolate and identify the specific source of abnormalities rather than merely detecting their presence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting operation states of components during different test modes. The controller changes operating parameters (such as running compressors at different speeds or activating specific valves) to create distinct operational conditions that reveal the source of abnormalities through comparative analysis of measured values under varying conditions.
2Loss of time
If simple threshold comparison is used to detect abnormalities, then detection speed is improved, but diagnostic precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static threshold comparison to dynamic diagnostic testing. Instead of using fixed thresholds, the system dynamically adjusts operational parameters and conducts sequential tests that adapt based on previous results. This dynamic approach maintains fast detection by using predetermined test sequences while improving precision through multiple measurement points and comparative analysis across different operational states.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigeration cycle apparatus in which a compressor, a heat-source-side heat exchanger, a decompressor, and a use-side heat exchanger are connected by pipes to allow refrigerant to be circuited as a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle apparatus includes a controller which controls an operation of each of devices. The controller sets an operation mode to a specific operation mode for determining where abnormality occurs based on states of the compressor, the heat-source-side heat exchanger, the decompressor and the use-side heat exchanger in the case where an operating state of one of a plurality of element devices to be controlled by the controller is changed from a first state to a second state, the element devices being included in the compressor, the heat-source-side heat exchanger, the decompressor and the use-side heat exchanger.