Refrigeration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigeration systems face inefficiencies due to constant intermediate pressure operation, which does not account for varying load states and climatic fluctuations, leading to suboptimal energy usage and refrigeration capacity.
Innovation Solution
A control system regulates the intermediate pressure in a refrigeration system by controlling the power of the parallel compressor, determining a set intermediate pressure value based on reference variables to optimize efficiency across different load states and geographical locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If constant intermediate pressure operation is used, then system stability is maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to varying load states and climatic fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant intermediate pressure operation to variable intermediate pressure operation. The control system dynamically adjusts the intermediate pressure setpoint based on reference variables such as ambient temperature, load state, and operational mode, allowing the system to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining stability through controlled variation rather than rigid constancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the intermediate pressure parameter based on different operating conditions. The control system changes the intermediate pressure setpoint according to reference variables including ambient temperature, refrigeration load, and compressor operational mode, thereby optimizing energy efficiency across different climatic and load scenarios.
2Use of energy by moving object
If intermediate pressure is varied to optimize efficiency, then energy usage improves, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a control system that continuously monitors reference variables (ambient temperature, load state, operational mode) and adjusts the intermediate pressure setpoint accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism automates the optimization process, reducing the perceived control complexity while achieving energy efficiency improvements through systematic adaptation to changing conditions.
3Productivity
If parallel compressor power is controlled to regulate intermediate pressure, then refrigeration capacity improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the parallel compressor to automatically regulate intermediate pressure based on system conditions. The control system monitors reference variables and autonomously adjusts compressor power to maintain optimal intermediate pressure, allowing the system to self-regulate refrigeration capacity without external intervention while managing complexity through automated control logic.
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 approach enhances the overall efficiency of the refrigeration system by varying intermediate pressure, improving energy usage and refrigeration capacity, especially when integrated over time periods like a year, while minimizing impact on other control processes.
Implementation Method 1
a parallel compressor which sucks refrigerant from the intermediate pressure accumulator in a parallel compression mode of operation of the refrigerant circuit and compresses it to high pressure
Implementation Method 2
an expansion element which is arranged in the refrigerant circuit and, in the active state, cools the overall mass flow of the refrigerant by expansion
Implementation Method 3
a heat exchanger which is arranged in the refrigerant circuit for cooling refrigerant at the high pressure side
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigeration system is of the type that includes a refrigerant compressor unit which compresses normal refrigerating mass flow and a parallel compressor. The parallel compressor in a parallel compression mode of operation of the refrigerant circuit, sucks in refrigerant from the intermediate pressure accumulator and compresses it to high pressure. It is proposed that, in order to increase efficiency, the power of the parallel compressor is controlled by a control system. The control system determines at least one reference variable representing a load state of the refrigerant circuit, that determines a set intermediate pressure value on the basis of the at least one reference variable at least in a parallel compression mode of operation, and that regulates the intermediate pressure in accordance with the set intermediate pressure value at least in the parallel compression mode of operation.