Solar integrated chiller method and system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional chillers face inefficiencies in energy usage and noise pollution, particularly in high-density urban areas, due to reliance on AC power and lack of integration with renewable energy sources, which limits their operational efficiency and increases energy costs.
Innovation Solution
A solar-integrated chiller system that includes AC condenser fans, AC/DC convertible fans, and a controller to switch between DC and AC power sources based on solar panel availability, along with a battery bank for backup, allowing direct use of solar-generated DC power to optimize fan operation and reduce energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional chillers rely on AC power, then they can operate continuously, but energy costs increase and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the power source parameter from traditional AC power to solar-generated DC power, fundamentally altering how the chiller operates energetically. This parameter change enables direct coupling with solar panels without conversion losses, improving overall energy efficiency and reducing operational costs
Solution Approach 2:
The chiller system serves itself by generating its own power through integrated solar panels. The DC fans are directly powered by solar panels during daytime, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating dependence on external AC power infrastructure, thereby reducing energy costs
2Reliability
If AC power is used for condenser fans, then continuous operation is ensured, but noise pollution increases in high-density urban areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous AC-powered operation to periodic operation based on solar availability. DC fans operate during daytime when solar power is available and stop at night, creating a periodic operation pattern that eliminates nighttime noise pollution while maintaining cooling during active hours
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the AC-powered mechanical fan system with a DC-powered fan system directly connected to solar panels. This substitution changes the operational characteristics, allowing fans to run only when solar power is available, thereby reducing noise pollution in urban environments
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are integrated with chiller, then energy efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the inverter component from the system. By using DC fans that can be directly powered by solar panels, the system removes the need for AC/DC conversion equipment, grid protection equipment, and associated complex control systems, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The DC fans serve multiple functions: they can operate directly on DC power from solar panels during daytime, and the system can switch to AC power when needed. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components and simplifies the system by using a single fan type that can adapt to different power sources
4Device complexity
If DC fans are used with solar panels, then inverter equipment is eliminated, but power availability becomes dependent on solar generation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic adaptability by enabling DC fans to operate in multiple modes: direct DC power from solar panels during daytime, and AC power when solar generation is insufficient. This dynamic capability ensures continuous operation while maintaining equipment simplification, as the same DC fans can adapt to different power sources without requiring separate fan systems
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 achieves a 15% increase in Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV) efficiency, reduces noise pollution, and provides free cooling during sunny days, with potential payback in as little as 12 months in sunny locations, while eliminating the need for inverters and utility grid protection equipment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar panel; connecting the AC/DC convertible fan to the at least one solar panel; determining, by the controller, i) when sufficient DC solar-generated current is available and then running the AC/DC convertible fan
Data Source
AI summary
An air cooled oil-free centrifugal chiller system and method, the system comprising at least one AC condenser fan; at least one solar panel; at least one AC/DC convertible fan connected to the at least one solar panel; and a controller configured to determine when sufficient DC power is available and activating the at least one AC/DC convertible fan when sufficient DC power is available, and when DC power is not sufficient, activating the at least one AC condenser fan.