Abstract: A universal control panel for controlling operation of a cooling component. The universal control panel may have a variable frequency drive (VFD) that incorporates an input voltage and frequency sensing circuit; and logic, memory and communications circuits. The VFD accepts a plurality of differing input signals, analyzes the input signals and generates an output signal having a desired voltage and frequency to provide real time control over an electrical component operably associated with the cooling component. The VFD controls the cooling component in relation to changes in at least one of sensed pressure and a sensed temperature of a fluid, to dampen response of the electrical component, to thus achieve more efficient use of the cooling component being used to cool the fluid.

Abstract: In a refrigeration cycle device in which a compressor is driven by power transmitted from an engine, a torque limiter is adapted to interrupt a transmission of the power from the engine to the compressor when a torque transmitted from the engine to the compressor becomes a predetermined value. A control unit is adapted to determine whether the transmission of the power from the engine to the compressor is interrupted by the torque limiter by determining whether a deviation of a refrigerant discharge pressure of the compressor is below a predetermined pressure when the control unit commands the compressor to change the refrigerant discharge flow amount of the compressor. Thus, the control unit can determine whether the torque limiter interrupts the transmission of power from the engine to the compressor without, using a compressor revolution sensor.

Abstract: After the power source to the control substrate is turned on, power is supplied to the compressor driver and the fan driver. Then, when it is determined that an indoor unit is in operation, the compressor driver and the fan driver are operated. Meanwhile, when it is determined that the indoor unit is not in operation, after the lapse of ten minutes or twenty minutes under a predetermined setting, the power to the compressor driver and the fan driver is cut. When the operation of the indoor unit is started again, power is supplied to the compressor driver and the fan driver.

Abstract: The invention relates to a control method and system comprising an electronic control unit (11) controlling the electric current power supply from an electric power source to a motor-compressor arrangement (12, 13); the electronic control unit comprises a conversion means which is connected to an inversion means (15) to supply the voltage demanded by the motor (12). A PWM pulse width regulator (16) generates the switching signals for all the switching elements of the unit (11) relating to said demanded voltage.

Abstract: A method of controlling the frequency of a compressor in a chiller system is disclosed. The method includes determining a nominal minimum frequency of a compressor, and providing a control algorithm for controlling the period of time and the deviation of the actual operating frequency below the nominal minimal frequency that the compressor may operate without shutting down the chiller system. The time period of operation below nominal minimum frequency may be predetermined as a fixed time period of operation below nominal minimum frequency, or as a variable time period based on the amount by which the frequency deviates below nominal minimum frequency. Also, an absolute minimum operating frequency is provided that results in the control algorithm shutting down the chiller system and the compressor.

Abstract: A controller comprises a first input that receives a signal indicating an energy consumption value of a compressor, a second input that receives a signal indicating an energy consumption value of a condenser fan, and an output that provides a control signal to the condenser fan. The controller also comprises a memory that stores a condenser set point, and a processor in communication with the input, output and memory and that modulates the condenser set-point to minimize energy consumption and controls the condenser fan based on the condenser set-point.

Abstract: An energy efficient and highly versatile electrically-powered air conditioning and heating system for mobile vehicles. Multiple variable-speed compressors operate in series and parallel modes giving an exceptionally wide range of operating capacity making the system suitable for combined on-highway and no-idle use in trucks. In series mode, the single-stage compressors function like a two-stage compressors for increased energy efficiency. A unique power control and storage system has multi-voltage input and output capability without the use of DC-DC or DC-AC converters. A battery management system is incorporated which is compatible with all advanced battery technologies and offers cell-level charge and discharge control.

Abstract: A system for controlling a heating and cooling system for use on a machine includes a condenser, an evaporator assembly, an electric motor driven compressor, and a master controller operable to determine and regulate an operational speed of the compressor. The master controller includes a plurality of control algorithms each receiving respective dynamic input information and outputting a respective controller speed request based upon the respective dynamic input information.

Abstract: A compressor and an air-conditioner having the same are disclosed. A compressor application voltage is detected, and the air-conditioner is operated in a pre-set operation mode according to the detection result, or the air-conditioner is operated in a pre-set operation mode in a certain time domain, thus continuously operate the compressor. Or, a compressor temperature or an ambient temperature is detected to operate the air-conditioner in a pre-set operation mode or operate the air-conditioner in a pre-set operation mode within a certain time domain, thus continuously operate the compressor. Accordingly, the compressor can be operated in a particular operation mode within a certain time slot regardless of an ambient temperature, whereby an excessive cooling operation cannot be performed at night to thus provide an agreeable cooling operation and reduce noise.

Abstract: A system for controlling multiple air conditioners. The system includes a demand control unit configured to calculate an estimated power amount to be used by the multiple air conditioners based on an amount of power consumed by the multiple air conditioners during a predetermined time period, and to forcibly control an operation rate of one or more air conditioners based on a priority level assigned to the one or more air conditioners.

Abstract: An HVAC system for a vehicle. The HVAC system includes a battery management controller, which can be used to run the components of the HVAC system when the engine of the vehicle is not running.

Abstract: Dehumidifiers for high temperature operation and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes drawing air into a dehumidifier and automatically monitoring an electric current drawn by a refrigerant compressor of the dehumidifier. The method can further include automatically stopping the compressor in response to the current meeting or exceeding a predetermined threshold value, and automatically restarting the compressor in response to the compressor meeting a predetermined condition that includes or corresponds to a target pressure difference between refrigerant pressures upstream and downstream of the compressor. The predetermined condition, in at least some embodiments, includes the passage of a period of time sufficient to allow refrigerant pressures upstream and downstream of the compressor to come within a preselected range of each other.

Abstract: A method and a control unit for controlling a power level being drawn from a power source (26). Based on a determined rate of change of a measured voltage (1) an estimated remaining runtime is calculated. The estimated remaining runtime represents a time where specific run criteria will no longer be fulfilled if the present power level is maintained. The estimated remaining runtime is compared to a threshold value, and in case the estimated remaining runtime is shorter than the threshold value, the power drawn from the power source (26) is decreased. Thereby the runtime for the power source (26) is maximised. This is particularly useful if the power source is a limited power source, such as a battery (26), e.g. for running a compressor (27) for a movable refrigeration system (24). The invention is suitable for automotive applications.

Abstract: Assemblies for HVAC systems and methods of operating HVAC systems are disclosed, including a method of operating an HVAC system having a compressor assembly and a condenser assembly. The compressor assembly includes a compressor having a compressor motor that is susceptible to backspining and capable of generating electric power when backspinning. The condenser assembly includes a condenser motor operatively coupled to a fan. The condenser assembly is electrically coupled to the compressor assembly. The method includes using the condenser motor as an electric load to dissipate electric power generated by the compressor motor when the compressor motor backspins.

Abstract: A system and method includes a compressor operable in a refrigeration circuit and including a motor, a current sensor detecting current supplied to the motor, a discharge line temperature sensor detecting discharge line temperature of the compressor, and processing circuitry receiving current data from the current sensor and discharge line temperature data from the discharge line temperature sensor and processing the current data and the discharge line temperature data to determine a capacity of the refrigeration circuit.

Abstract: A method and a control unit (4) for controlling a supply of power to an electrical circuit comprising a switch (3). An output voltage of a first power source (5), which is connected to the circuit, is measured and compared to a predefined threshold voltage. If the measured voltage is smaller than the threshold value it is determined that the switch (3) is in a closed state, and if the voltage is larger than the threshold value it is determined that the switch (3) is in an open state. The supply of power is controlled in accordance with the open/closed state of the switch (3). Preferably, the electrical circuit is connected to a second power source (9) when the switch (3) is in a closed state. Power is conserved while it is ensured that sufficient power is available when needed. The invention is very suitable for supplying power to a lamp (1) positioned inside a refrigeration compartment (2), especially when the system is battery powered.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a control apparatus for a linear compressor which can vary a cooling force and prevent an inrush current. The control apparatus for the linear compressor includes a coil winding body laminated on the linear compressor, a first capacitor connected in series to the coil winding body, a capacitance varying unit being formed in a parallel structure to the first capacitor, and having a capacitor switch, and a control unit for inducing an output change of the linear compressor, by varying the whole capacitance of the control apparatus by controlling the capacitor switch.

Abstract: An interactive system for controlling the operation of an HVAC system is provide that comprises a thermostat for initiating the operation of the HVAC system in either a full capacity mode of operation or at least one reduced capacity mode of operation, and a controller for an outside condenser unit having a condenser fan motor and a compressor motor, the controller being capable of operating the compressor in a full capacity mode and at least one reduced capacity mode. The system also comprises a controller for an indoor blower unit having a blower fan motor, the controller being capable of operating the blower fan motor in a full capacity mode an at least one reduced capacity mode. The system further includes a communication means for transmitting information between the outside condenser unit controller and at least the indoor blower controller, where the information relates to the operation of the indoor blower and the outdoor condenser unit.

Abstract: The rear panel of an electronics enclosure includes one or more heat exchangers. The rear panel can be cooling door configured to provide access to the cables and equipment located within the electronics enclosure. Such access can be provided by swinging the door open on hinges like a standard door. In the case where there are multiple heat exchangers, the door can be configured into segments, one segment per heat exchanger, and each segment includes hinges so as to be opened independently from the other segments. In some embodiments, each segment swivels open like a standard door. In other embodiments, each segment is configured to swivel up or down about a horizontal axis. In still other embodiments, each segment is configured to be disconnected from the electronics enclosure and moved out of the way, in which case each heat exchanger is connected using either flexible tubing that can be bent out of the way or quick disconnects.

Abstract: A cooling unit for cooling an enclosed interior space of a vehicle. Also provided are methods of cooling the interior of the vehicle.

Abstract: A climate control system (10) for a cab/berth of a vehicle, comprises a climate control circuit (12) in which a first refrigerant circulates between at least an energy accumulator (20) in which an accumulator refrigerant is in heat exchange with the first refrigerant, a radiator (22) in the cab/berth to adjust a temperature of the cab/berth, and a heat-exchange unit (23). A refrigeration circuit (14) is provided for submitting a second refrigerant to a refrigeration cycle. An evaporation stage (43) is in heat-exchange relation with the heat-exchange unit (23) of the climate control circuit (12) such that the second refrigerant absorbs heat from the first refrigerant.

Abstract: A unitary control for operating at least the fan and compressor of a climate control apparatus in response to signals received from a thermostat, the unitary air conditioning control includes a circuit board, a microprocessor on the circuit board; a first relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a fan connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts at least one of which is connected to the microprocessor; and a second relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a fan connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts connected to the microprocessor.

Abstract: There is provided a control device of a permanent-magnet type synchronous motor that sets a synchronous operation current at start-up in response to a current limiting value determined from the temperature of an inverter that supplies three-phase power to the permanent-magnet type synchronous motor, that monitors an output voltage or an output current of the inverter during a rotation stabilizing period after start-up, and that updates the synchronous operation current using this output voltage or output current.

Abstract: A heat source apparatus in which a control device of the heat source apparatus can ascertain a stoppage of an inverter device and in which a stable operating time of the heat source apparatus can be extended is provided. The heat source apparatus includes an electric compressor that is driven by an inverter device and that compresses a refrigerant, the inverter device having a protective function that performs stoppage for device protection on the basis of a predetermined calculation by an inverter control portion, and a control device that controls cold output and/or heat output. The control device includes an inverter-protective-function estimating unit that estimates a calculation result of the protective function of the inverter control portion.

Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide an on-vehicle air conditioner that can prevent breakage or the like caused by applying a high voltage. In an inverter system 20 that controls an operation of a motor 30 of a compressor for the on-vehicle air conditioner, a motor control microcomputer 24 operates by converting a voltage supplied from an on-vehicle battery power source 50 into a low voltage. Thus, the motor control microcomputer 24 is operated to perform failure diagnosis of a high voltage circuit Cb without a high voltage power source 40 being turned on. The failure diagnosis can be performed without power being supplied from the high voltage power source 40 to the high voltage circuit Cb, thereby preventing the high voltage circuit Cb from being broken by applying the high voltage even when there is some failure in the high voltage circuit Cb.

Abstract: A motor controller (101) according to the invention comprises an inverter circuit (3) for driving a brushless motor (4) and a control unit for controlling the rotational speed of the brushless motor (4) by controlling the phase of the motor current of the brushless motor (4) through the inverter circuit (3).

Abstract: An air-conditioning system includes a refrigeration cycle and a control unit. The refrigeration cycle includes an electric compressor in which a compression mechanism for drawing a refrigerant therein for compression is integrated with an electric motor for driving the compression mechanism, and a motor drive circuit for driving the motor is cooled using an intake refrigerant drawn into the compression mechanism. The control unit provides operational control to the motor drive circuit and the refrigeration cycle. When the temperature of the motor drive circuit has exceeded a predetermined temperature, the control unit varies a condition of supplying air to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle to thereby reduce the temperature of the intake refrigerant.

Abstract: A method and system determines when a climate control system of a hybrid vehicle can be operated without the use of an A/C compressor. The method and system make this determination by determining whether the vehicle is at idle or is being driven and determining whether or not the A/C compressor is required to function to maintain air conditioning comfort in the vehicle. The A/C compressor couples to an engine of the vehicle when the engine is on in order to function. The method and system turn off the engine and thereby turn off the A/C compressor if the A/C compressor is not required to function and if the vehicle is at idle. The method and system turn off the A/C compressor without turning off the engine if the A/C compressor is not required to function and if the vehicle is being driven.

Abstract: A cell body receiving fuel supply to generate power, an inverter receiving output power of the cell body to convert it into ac power, and a vapor-compression refrigerating machine receiving the ac power output from the inverter as operating power and using a motor as its driving source are provided. An intermediate part of a connection line connecting the aforementioned inverter and vapor-compression refrigerating machine is connected to a refrigeration air-conditioning power board to make effective use of a fuel cell and to prevent the footprint and construction costs from increasing.

Abstract: An air conditioning system for use in an over-the-road or off road vehicle is provided that allows operation during both engine on and engine off conditions. The system utilizes a variable speed, motor driven compressor controlled by an intelligent power generation management controller. This controller selects from one of the available sources of power on the vehicle to drive the compressor, and modulates the compressor speed and capacity based on operational parameters and source availability and depletion. The controller may also operate a coolant or air heater to provide heating to the interior compartments.

Abstract: A three-winding induction motor supplies shaft power to an air-conditioning or refrigeration compressor, where both motor and compressor are hermetically sealed, and the wall of the hermetic enclosure has an electrical bushing in the wall of the enclosure, which bushing has four electrical conductors to connect the motor stator windings internal in the enclosure to the external electrical circuits. Four conductors permit the six motor winding terminals for a three-winding induction motor to be connected in the unique semi-hexagon circuit to motor-run-capacitors and to a single-phase supply. A three-symmetrical-winding induction motor with the three windings in series and a single-phase supply connected across two of the windings in series. A circuit for use with a three-winding induction motor. A capacitor bank. An air-conditioning or refrigeration unit. A four-terminal hermetic bushing.

Abstract: In a store, a plurality of electric apparatuses including an air conditioner, a lighting apparatus, a water heater and a refrigeration unit are provided and connected to a single main power supply. An electric energy control system includes an electric energy detection part, an electric energy supervising part, an air conditioner derivation part and an air conditioner control part. The electric energy detection part detects the total electric energy consumption of the plurality of electric apparatuses. The electric energy supervising part outputs a demand signal when the total electric energy consumption detected by the electric energy detection part exceeds a set amount of electric energy.

Abstract: An air-conditioning system for a vehicle having an engine adapted to stop idling on predetermined stop conditions of the vehicle, which system comprises an electric motor for driving a refrigerant compressor when the engine idling is stopped, motor speed control means for controlling the speed of the motor in correspondence with an evaporator outlet temperature, and evaporator temperature correction means for, when the engine idling is stopped while outside air is being introduced, correcting the evaporator outlet temperature to a lower temperature in correspondence with a temperature of the outside air and a temperature of engine cooling water.

Abstract: An air conditioner for vehicles in which the probability of executing pre-air conditioning is increased so that it may be prevented that the inside of the vehicle cannot be often in a comfortable state before the driver gets into the vehicle. The air conditioner performs air conditioning of a vehicle having a traveling motor and an engine as drive sources and comprises a pre-air conditioning main switch. The crew permits operation of pre-air conditioning by turning the switch on. When the pre-air conditioning main switch is set on, an engine control section performs charge preference control where battery charge takes precedence of engine fuel consumption and performs normal control where engine fuel consumption takes precedence when the pre-air conditioning main switch is set off.

Abstract: A refrigerant system is provided with at least one variable frequency drive. In the past, the variable frequency drives were operable such that the voltage-to-frequency ratio remained constant regardless of operation. The present invention realizes that variations in the voltage-to-frequency ratio may be desirable, and the refrigerant system control drives the motors associated with relevant refrigerant system components to reach an optimum voltage-to-frequency ratios in order to achieve higher efficiency, provide operational safety and prevent nuisance shutdowns.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for controlling an air conditioner. In particular, driving modes of elements, namely sucking/discharge compressure, of the compressor in operation are determined so that variable means are controlled to ensure for the elements of the compressor to be within predetermined value ranges in safe area. According to the present invention, vibrations/noises that usually occur when the compressor is in unstable area are greatly reduced and thus, the compressor can be protected from damages.

Abstract: A unitary control for operating at least the fan and compressor of a climate control apparatus in response to signals received from a thermostat. The unitary air conditioning control includes a circuit board, a microprocessor on the circuit board, a first relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a fan connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts at least one of which is connected to the microprocessor; and a second relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a compressor connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts connected to the microprocessor.

Abstract: A transcritical refrigeration system includes a compressor, a gas cooler, an expansion device, and an evaporator. Refrigerant is circulated though the closed circuit system. Preferably, carbon dioxide is used as the refrigerant. A variable speed drive controls the speed of the refrigerant flowing through the compressor. Varying the speed of the refrigerant flowing through the compressor changes the mass flow rate of the refrigerant in the system to optimize the coefficient of performance.

Abstract: An air conditioning system including a variable speed compressor configured to operator at faster and slower speeds. The system includes an evaporator and a thermal expansion valve for regulating the flow of a refrigerant from the compressor to the evaporator. The system includes a flow restricting device in a flow path from the thermal expansion valve to the evaporator thereby increasing the efficiency of the system when the compressor is operating at slower speeds.

Abstract: A unitary control for operating at least the fan and compressor of a climate control apparatus in response to signals received from a thermostat, the unitary air conditioning control includes a circuit board, a microprocessor on the circuit board; a first relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a fan connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts at least one of which is connected to the microprocessor; and a second relay on the circuit board operable by the microprocessor, to connect a fan connected thereto to line voltage, and having first and second contacts connected to the microprocessor.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for pre-cooling the passenger compartment of an automotive vehicle. The vehicle includes at least one electrically actuatable window and a HVAC system having at least a controller, a blower, a passenger compartment temperature sensor, and a HVAC ducting leading to the passenger compartment. The controller and the blower are connected to a vehicle battery. The method includes determining the passenger compartment temperature and comparing the temperature to a first predetermined value; cycling an blower inlet to an outside air intake position and operating the blower to provide pressurized air to the passenger compartment if the passenger compartment temperature is greater than the first predetermined value; opening the vehicle windows; comparing the passenger compartment temperature to a second predetermined value; and stopping operation of the blower when the passenger compartment temperature drops below the second predetermined value.

Abstract: In an air conditioning system having a variable displacement compressor driven by an engine of a vehicle, method and device for controlling a refrigeration cycle are provided to ensure necessary cooling performance of the system without damaging the traveling performance of the vehicle. In the method, a limit value in the discharge rate of the variable displacement compressor is determined by an engine speed or a variable related to the engine speed. The variable displacement compressor is controlled on the basis of the limit value.

Abstract: The invention relates to a control method and system comprising an electronic control unit (11) controlling the electric current power supply from an electric power source to a motor-compressor arrangement (12, 13); the electronic control unit comprises a conversion means which is connected to an inversion means (15) to supply the voltage demanded by the motor (12). A PWM pulse width regulator (16) generates the switching signals for all the switching elements of the unit (11) relating to said demanded voltage.

Abstract: An apparatus for diagnosing a cooling system includes a first sensor for sensing a first operating parameter, a second sensor for sensing a motor operating parameter, a controller in communication with the sensors for receiving a signal from each of the sensors, and a computer in communication with the controller. The computer includes a memory storing normal operating parameters for a plurality of cooling systems, and is operable to compare the first and motor operating parameters with the normal parameters of one of the plurality of cooling systems to diagnose the cooling system.

Abstract: A refrigerant system operates with tandem compressors (22, 24). A control (41) for the refrigerant system is operable to change the capacities of each of the compressors dependent upon a load on the system. The control determines the percentage of maximum load capacity currently being utilized by each of the compressors. A compressor with the highest percentage is decreased in capacity should the control determine that excess capacity is being provided. Conversely, the control will increase the capacity of a compressor having a lower percentage, if insufficient capacity is being provided to meet a load on the system.

Abstract: An inverter 6 that drives an electric motor 4 of the electric compressor 3 operates in a protection-against-overheat mode, in which the electric motor is driven at a rotational speed for protection against heat different from a rotational speed specifying value from an air conditioning control unit 20, in order to ensure the flow rate of the refrigerant and cool the inverter itself when the temperature detected by an inverter temperature sensor 22g exceeds a predetermined value. At this time, if the refrigerant pressure increases or the evaporator discharge temperature falls, the air conditioning control unit stops the protection-against-overheat mode operation of the inverter and directs the inverter to forcedly stop the electric motor. Due to this, an excessive increase in the refrigerant pressure and evaporator freezeing can be prevented, and thus the function of the refrigerating cycle can be protected.

Abstract: A method for controlling a cogeneration system is disclosed. The control method determines whether or not the operation load or power load of an air conditioner corresponds to a load requiring driving of a generator, controls the generator to operate when it is determined that the operation load of the air conditioner corresponds to the generator driving load, controls the air conditioner to operate using electric power generated from the generator when the generator operates normally, and controls the air conditioner to operate using commercial electric power when the operation load of the air conditioner is not the generator driving load or when the generator operates abnormally. Accordingly, there are advantages in terms of economy and safety.

Abstract: A compressor includes a motor protector which stops the compressor motor when it senses an out of specification condition. A diagnostic system monitors the status of the motor protector and includes logic circuitry that diagnoses the type of problem the compressor or the system is having based upon the running times and status of the motor in conjunction with the times and status of the tripped motor protector. The diagnostic system also includes either a discharge pressure sensor or a condenser temperature sensor, an ambient air sensor and a voltage sensor. The sensors provide information to the diagnostic system, which enable it to determine where a system fault has occurred.

Abstract: An air conditioner having two compressors enables, when one compressor is started, the phase advance capacitor for the other compressor to be temporarily separated and used in parallel with the phase advance capacitor for the one compressor. These compressors can have an increased starting torque without using a starting capacitor. This structure allows the effective use of expensive capacitors, making the system inexpensive.

Abstract: In a motor vehicle with a combustion engine, an electronic engine-management device, and an air-conditioning system with an air-conditioning control device, the air-conditioning compressor has reciprocating pistons whose displacement stroke is adjustable through one or more control valves. The electronic engine-management device has direct access to and priority control over the adjustment of the piston stroke, so that the electronic engine management device takes precedence over the air-conditioning control device in controlling the adjustment of the piston stroke.