Variable refrigerant package
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional through-the-wall air conditioning units, such as PTACs and VPACs, fail to effectively ventilate and dehumidify enclosed spaces, leading to humidity issues and musty smells, particularly in coastal areas.
Innovation Solution
A variable refrigerant package (VRP) system that includes a control system for dehumidifying air inside closed spaces, modulating power to the compressor and fans, using pulse width modulation, and incorporating a reheat system for additional dehumidification, while also providing a base for easy installation and active power factor control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional PTAC/VPAC units are used for cooling, then the space temperature is satisfied, but humidity continues to build and ventilation is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts refrigerant flow to evaporator coils based on real-time humidity sensing, transitioning from static temperature-based control to dynamic humidity-responsive control. This allows the system to continue dehumidification operation even after temperature setpoint is reached, preventing humidity buildup while maintaining comfortable temperatures.
Solution Approach 2:
Humidity sensors provide continuous feedback to the control system, which modulates refrigerant flow accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to respond to actual humidity conditions rather than relying solely on temperature feedback, ensuring effective dehumidification throughout the cooling cycle.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If separate dehumidifiers are added to remove moisture, then humidity is reduced, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air conditioning system is enhanced to perform multiple functions: cooling, dehumidification, and ventilation control, all through the single VRP unit. The variable refrigerant flow capability allows the same evaporator coils to serve both temperature control and humidity removal functions, eliminating the need for separate dehumidifying equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines dehumidification functionality directly into the existing air conditioning system by modulating refrigerant flow to evaporator coils. This merging of functions into a single integrated system avoids the complexity and cost of installing separate dehumidifiers while achieving effective moisture removal.
3Ease of operation
If outside air is forced into the conditioned space through duct work, then ventilation is provided, but additional duct work and dehumidification equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-cools and pre-dehumidifies outside air using the evaporator coils before introducing it into the conditioned space. This preliminary conditioning of fresh air allows ventilation to occur without adding humidity or thermal load that would require additional ductwork and equipment for handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaporator coils serve dual purposes: cooling the conditioned space and conditioning (cooling and dehumidifying) the outside air for ventilation. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide both cooling and ventilation capabilities without requiring separate ductwork systems or additional equipment.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the unit runs longer to remove moisture, then dehumidification improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically modulates refrigerant flow rates based on real-time humidity sensor feedback, allowing the evaporator coils to operate at optimal dehumidification capacity rather than running at fixed high capacity. This dynamic control enables effective moisture removal while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption that would occur with continuous high-capacity operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (refrigerant flow rate, compressor speed) based on humidity levels and environmental conditions. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system achieves effective dehumidification when needed while reducing energy consumption during periods of lower humidity or milder conditions.
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 VRP system effectively dehumidifies enclosed spaces, addresses humidity issues, and provides stable power consumption, enabling longer operation to maintain desired humidity levels without the need for additional ductwork or dehumidifiers.
Implementation Method 1
the condensate water extracted from the air by the evaporator coil
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a reheat system for additional dehumidification
Data Source
AI summary
A variable refrigerant package air conditioner is shown that is easy to install in new construction with a unique base that causes collected mixture that overflows to drain outside the building. A control system is shown that has motors and compressor that are pulse width modulated so the air conditioner is infinitely variable while maintaining the highest possible power factor. Dehumidification of outside air occurs as it is mixed with inside air. By gradually approaching a temperature set point and even reheating after dehumidification, moisture is removed from the room.