Method and apparatus for re-heat dehumidification utilizing a variable speed compressor system
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges in efficiently regulating humidity without causing occupant discomfort or increasing energy consumption, as existing methods either result in over-cooling or require extended operation times, leading to higher utility costs.
Innovation Solution
A HVAC system with a variable-speed compressor and controller that adjusts compressor speed based on humidity thresholds, using a humidity sensor to increase or decrease latent capacity, and a variable-speed circulation fan to optimize dehumidification without temperature changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the HVAC system operates at high capacity to dehumidify the enclosed space, then humidity regulation is improved, but occupant discomfort increases due to over-cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a variable-speed compressor that can continuously adjust its operating speed between high and low ranges. This allows the system to dynamically modulate cooling capacity to match the actual dehumidification need, preventing over-cooling while maintaining effective humidity control. The circulation fan speed is also variable, enabling coordinated adjustment of air flow to optimize both dehumidification and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting compressor speed based on environmental conditions (temperature and humidity readings). By varying the compressor speed parameter, the system can deliver different cooling capacities - high speed for heavy dehumidification needs and low speed for maintenance operation - thereby resolving the contradiction between effective humidity control and preventing occupant discomfort from over-cooling.
2Reliability
If the HVAC system operates at high capacity to dehumidify the enclosed space, then humidity regulation is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable-speed compressor enables the system to operate dynamically at different capacity levels. Instead of running continuously at high capacity, the system adjusts compressor speed to match the actual dehumidification load, consuming only the necessary energy while maintaining effective humidity regulation. This dynamic operation significantly reduces energy consumption compared to conventional fixed-speed systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the operational parameter of compressor speed based on environmental conditions, the system optimizes energy consumption. The controller adjusts compressor speed to provide high capacity when dehumidification is needed and low capacity when maintenance is sufficient, thereby resolving the contradiction between effective humidity control and energy efficiency.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the HVAC system operates at low capacity to reduce energy consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but humidity regulation becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The variable-speed compressor allows the system to adapt its capacity dynamically. When environmental conditions indicate high humidity levels, the compressor operates at high speed to provide sufficient dehumidification capacity. When conditions are favorable, it reduces to low speed for energy-efficient maintenance operation. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between energy efficiency and adequate humidity regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from temperature and humidity sensors to continuously adjust compressor speed. This closed-loop control ensures that the compressor operates at the minimum necessary capacity to maintain desired humidity levels, preventing both over-cooling and energy waste. The feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by automatically matching system capacity to actual environmental needs.
4Reliability
If the HVAC system uses extended operation time to dehumidify the enclosed space, then humidity regulation is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable-speed compressor enables the system to deliver high dehumidification capacity when needed rather than operating indefinitely at low capacity. By providing high capacity output during critical dehumidification periods, the system achieves effective humidity control in shorter time frames, thereby improving dehumidification productivity while maintaining reliability.
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 effectively regulates humidity, reducing energy consumption and occupant discomfort by optimizing latent capacity and dehumidification processes, maintaining a comfortable environment while minimizing energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
a variable-speed compressor fluidly coupled to the condenser coil and the evaporator coil
Implementation Method 2
adjust a speed of the variable-speed compressor to increase latent capacity of the HVAC system
Implementation Method 3
A variable-speed circulation fan for circulating air around the evaporator coil
Implementation Method 4
circulating air around the evaporator coil... to increase latent capacity... for regulating humidity
Implementation Method 5
A condenser coil fluidly coupled to the metering device... fluidly coupled to the condenser coil and the evaporator coil
Data Source
AI summary
A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for regulating humidity of an enclosed space. The HVAC system includes an evaporator coil. A metering device is fluidly coupled to the evaporator coil. A variable-speed compressor is fluidly coupled to the condenser coil and the evaporator coil and a controller is operatively coupled to the variable-speed compressor. A humidity sensor is operatively coupled to the controller and exposed to the enclosed space. Responsive to a determination that the relative humidity of the enclosed space exceeds the maximum humidity threshold, the controller adjusts a speed of the variable-speed compressor to increase latent capacity of the HVAC system. Responsive to a determination that the relative humidity of the enclosed space falls below the minimum humidity threshold, the controller adjusts a speed of the variable-speed compressor to decrease latent capacity of the HVAC system.