System and method of operating a variable speed compressor with a two-stage controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems using variable speed compressor technology require complex system controls and proprietary protocols, increasing costs and component complexity.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage system controller that determines system demand and transmits conditioning signals to adjust compressor speed based on outdoor air temperature, allowing for minimal cost and efficient operation of variable speed compressors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If variable speed compressor technology is implemented, then efficiency and comfort are improved, but system control complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functionality between a simple two-stage controller and the variable speed compressor itself. The controller provides basic two-stage control signals, while the compressor's internal controller handles the variable speed modulation, dividing the control complexity across multiple components rather than concentrating it in one device.
Solution Approach 2:
The variable speed compressor includes its own controller that autonomously determines the appropriate speed based on received control signals and system conditions. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external control systems, as the compressor manages its own speed regulation internally.
2Ease of operation
If proprietary communication protocols are used for variable speed control, then precise compressor control is achieved, but system cost and component quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The two-stage controller is designed to work with both traditional fixed-speed compressors and variable speed compressors using the same basic control signals. This multi-functionality allows a single controller design to serve multiple purposes, eliminating the need for proprietary protocols and specialized communication hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standard electrical control signals as an intermediary between the two-stage controller and the variable speed compressor. These universal electrical signals bridge the control system and compressor without requiring complex proprietary communication protocols or additional communication components.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of operating an HVAC system including a HVAC unit including a unit temperature sensor, a unit controller, and a variable speed compressor, and a two-stage system controller in communication with the unit controller, the method including operating the system controller to transmit a conditioning signal to the unit controller based in part on a system demand, operating the unit controller to receive the conditioning signal, and receive outdoor air temperature data from the unit temperature sensor, operating the unit controller to determine whether the outdoor air temperature data is greater than or equal to a cooling temperature limit or less than or equal to a heating temperature limit, and operating the unit controller to transmit a speed signal to the compressor based in part on the plurality of conditioning signals and the outdoor air temperature data.