Assembling, Charging, Or Repairing Of Refrigeration Producer Patents (Class 62/77)
  • Publication number: 20130061613
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for cooling or heating a fluid or a body by means of a vapour compression circuit comprising a centrifugal compressor and containing a heat-transfer fluid, the heat-transfer fluid comprising at least two compounds selected from 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoropropene, 1,1-difluoroethane and 3,3,3-trifluoropropene, in which: the ratio of the Mach number of the centrifugal compressor to the Mach number which the centrifugal compressor has under the same operating conditions if the heat-transfer fluid is replaced with 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane in the vapour compression circuit is greater than or equal to 0.97 and less than or equal to 1.03; the compression ratio of the centrifugal compressor is less than or equal to the compression ratio which the centrifugal compressor has under the same operating conditions if the heat-transfer fluid is replaced with 1,1,12-tetrafluorethane in the vapour compression circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventor: Wissam Rached
  • Patent number: 8393165
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a service method and a service device (50) for a liquid cooling system (1) of an aircraft, the service device (50) being adapted to send at least one instruction to a liquid cooling control device (10) of the liquid cooling system (1). A plurality of service lines (52, 54, 56, 58, 62) are then connected between the service device (50) and the to liquid cooling system (1). The entire liquid cooling system (1) or a sub-system (12) can then be filled, emptied, deaerated and checked in respect of a leakage. Further, it is possible to set the fill level of a reservoir (8) and to service a fill-level sensor (99) of the reservoir (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Kenan Soenmez, Axel Redemann
  • Publication number: 20130055733
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ternary composition comprising difluoromethane, 3,3,3-trifluoropropene and a hydrocarbon-derived compound containing at least two fluorine atoms and having a boiling point of between ?30 and ?18° C., which is selected from 1,1-difluoroethane, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene. This composition is particularly suitable for use as a heat-transfer fund in the presence of countercurrent heat exchangers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventor: Wissam Rached
  • Publication number: 20130055738
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ternary composition comprising: from 5 to 50% of difluoromethane;—from 2 to 20% of pentafluoroethane; and—from 30 to 90% of tetrafluoropropeae. The tetrafluoropropeae may be 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene or 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene. This composition can he used as a heat-transfer fluid in vapor compression circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: ARKEMA FRANCE
    Inventor: Wissam Rached
  • Publication number: 20130055739
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ternary composition comprising difluoromethane, 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and a hydrocarbon-derived compound containing at least two fluorine atoms and having a boiling point of between ?30 and ?20° C., which is selected from 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene. This composition is particularly suitable for use as a heat-transfer fluid in the presence of countercurrent heat exchangers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventor: Wissam Rached
  • Publication number: 20130047637
    Abstract: A method of operating a filling system, which is configured for transferring a refrigerant to a refrigeration system and comprises a receiver for collecting a refrigerant-air-mixture, comprises the steps of determining the saturation pressure of the refrigerant at the actual environmental conditions; determining the air pressure of the refrigerant-air-mixture within the receiver; and stopping the operation of the filling system and/or issuing an alarm if the air pressure of the refrigerant-air-mixture within the receiver exceeds the saturation pressure of the refrigerant by more than a predetermined margin or if the change of the air pressure within the refrigerant-air-mixture within the receiver over time exceeds a predetermined margin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Louis CORDING
  • Publication number: 20130047635
    Abstract: A method is provided for operating a refrigerant recovery, recycling and recharging system having a compressor to recover, recycle, and/or recharge the refrigerant in a closed refrigeration circuit coupled to the system. The method includes compressing refrigerant with the compressor, stopping the compressor, re-starting the compressor, and relieving a pressure differential across the compressor at the time of re-starting the compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Eric I. Shultz, Michael J. Glatfelter, Paris K. Gesese
  • Publication number: 20130047636
    Abstract: A method of filling refrigerant into a refrigeration system by means of a filling system comprising a tank includes the step of pressurizing the tank by means of a conditioning process to a predetermined differential pressure above the saturation pressure of the actual ambient temperature before the refrigerant is filled into the refrigeration system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Louis CORDING
  • Publication number: 20130032751
    Abstract: The invention provides a heat transfer composition consisting essentially of from about 82 to about 88% by weight of trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234ze(E)) and from about 12 to about 18% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane (R-152a). The invention also provides a heat transfer composition comprising from about 5 to about 85% by weight R-1234ze(E), from about 2 to about 20% by weight R-152a, and from about 5 to about 60 by weight 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: Mexichem Amamco Holdings S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: Robert E. Low
  • Publication number: 20130025299
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a chiller apparatus containing a composition comprising from about 6 to about 70 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and from about 30 to about 94 weight percent 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. Also disclosed herein are compositions comprising from about 58.0 to about 59.5 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and from about 42.0 to about 40.5 weight percent 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. Also disclosed herein are compositions comprising from about 54.0 to about 56.0 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and from about 46.0 to about 44.0 weight percent 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. Also disclosed herein is a composition comprising a refrigerant consisting essentially of from about 58.0 to about 59.5 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and from about 42.0 to about 40.5 weight percent 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. Also disclosed herein is a composition comprising a refrigerant consisting essentially of from about 54.0 to about 56.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Konstantinos Kontomaris, Thomas Joseph Leck
  • Publication number: 20130014520
    Abstract: A refrigerant recovery unit is provided that can recover and recharge refrigerant. The unit is further configured with a pair of service hoses and a refrigerant control circuit operable to receive and transport the refrigerant between the hoses and the storage vessel and to process the refrigerant to substantially remove contaminants from the refrigerant. A fluid connector is provided in fluid communication with the hoses to enable the refrigerant to flow between the hoses and to establish a closed loop through the refrigerant control circuit, and a controller is operatively connected to the refrigerant control circuit and configured to control a flow of the refrigerant through the refrigerant control circuit and through the fluid connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: Service Solutions U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Service Solutions U.S. LLC
  • Publication number: 20130008192
    Abstract: A method and charging apparatus for adding refrigerant to an air conditioning system are provided. The method includes calculating a temperature differential by measuring a first temperature of a refrigerant inside of a refrigerant container and measuring a second temperature either at the air conditioning system or the ambient temperature. The method further includes using the temperature differential to calculate a compensation amount of refrigerant to add to a previously determined recommended amount of refrigerant based on the type of air conditioning system being charged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Mark McMasters, William Brown, Gary Murray
  • Publication number: 20120324921
    Abstract: A method for recovering refrigerant from an external refrigeration equipment by a refrigerant recovery device includes recovering the refrigerant from the refrigeration equipment in a main recovering process. A small amount of heated refrigerant is recharged into the refrigeration equipment in a temporary refrigerant recharge process. An additional recovering process for emptying of a residual refrigerant from the refrigeration equipment is performed after finishing the temporary refrigerant recharge process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: G. K. Venkatesh
  • Publication number: 20120324922
    Abstract: A method of adding refrigerant to an air conditioning system. The method includes measuring a first pressure inside of the air conditioning system and a second pressure inside of a container that holds refrigerant being added to the air conditioning system. The method also includes comparing the difference between the two measured pressures to empirical data in order to determine how long to pulse additional refrigerant into the air conditioning system. In addition, an apparatus configured to add refrigerant to an air conditioning system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Service Solutions U.S. LLC
    Inventors: Mark McMasters, William Brown
  • Publication number: 20120324920
    Abstract: Servicing devices and methods of use for servicing refrigerant systems are described herein. The servicing device may include a body and a plunger. The body may include a first fluid port, a second fluid port, and a passage. The first fluid port operatively couples to a fluid port of a fluid source. The second fluid port operatively couples to a refrigeration system. The passage is in fluid communication with the fluid ports of the body and in fluid communication with a measuring device. A plunger is at least partially disposed in the passage of the body. A first portion of the plunger is engagable with an integrated valve of the fluid source. Adjustment of the plunger to a released position allows communication between the second fluid port and the measuring device while inhibiting communication between the first fluid port and the fluid source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Vincent Carrubba
  • Publication number: 20120318005
    Abstract: A pre-charged heating/cooling system is shown for installation by unlicensed personnel. An outside unit includes an outside coil, outside fan, compressor and a reversing valve. An inside unit has an inside coil, inside fan for drawing air through the inside coil and discharging the conditioned air into the enclosed space, and a power cord connection. A cable sheath contains all connections from the inside unit to the outside unit with electrical connections being secured in position on the outside unit by a cover and a bracket. An expandable window sill holds and seals the cable sheath in a window opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: FRIEDRICH AIR CONDTIONING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: David J. Lingrey, Heath J. Hoselton, Kevin L. Eicher, Charles Anthony Wheeler, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120298909
    Abstract: The invention provides a heat transfer composition comprising (i) from about 45 to about 75% by weight 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf); and (ii) from about 25 to about 55% by weight 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a). A heat transfer composition comprising, optionally consisting essentially of, (i) from about 20 to about 90% by weight R-1234yf; (ii) from about 10 to about 60% by weight R-134a; and (iii) from about 1 to about 20% by weight R-32 is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: MEXICHEM AMANCO HOLDING S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: Robert E. Low
  • Publication number: 20120297799
    Abstract: In a method for servicing an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle, surrounding areas in which there is a risk of leakage of inflammable coolant is ventilated such that air in the surrounding areas is suctioned out and discharged from the surrounding areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventors: Louis Cording, Bjarne Lund
  • Patent number: 8316653
    Abstract: A manifold gauge set has at least one sight glass window for viewing contents of a refrigeration system or an air conditioning system being serviced. The window may be non-planar to achieve an appearance that varies with the presence or absence of liquid. Such a non-planar window may be in the form of a dome, prism, or a fresnel lens. The gauge set may have a second light transmissive window to allow light to illuminate system contents being viewed. A light source may be provided to illuminate system contents being viewed. The light source may provide light through the same window that is used for viewing contents. A diffuser may be provided with a second window to achieve an illuminated background for viewing system contents. Similar configurations may be used in standalone sight glasses, vacuum pumps, and recovery machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Brasscorp Limited
    Inventors: Paul C. Appler, Jack E. Brass, Steven M. Knowles, Donald L. Klipstein
  • Publication number: 20120291457
    Abstract: Refrigerant recovery unit is provided that includes steps to test for refrigerant leaks. The steps include providing a close loop with the hoses that connect to a refrigerant system, measuring the ambient temperature, calculating the vapor pressure with the ambient temperature, calculating the test pressure as a percentage of the vapor pressure, filling the unit with the refrigerant, and performing a pressure leak test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Service Solutions U.S. LLC
    Inventors: William Brown, Mark McMasters, Gary Murray
  • Publication number: 20120272667
    Abstract: A vessel for use in an air conditioner recharging system contains a desiccant that may limit moisture in a hygroscopic fluid, such as liquid lubricant and/or dye. The vessel may thus limits the amount of moisture introduced as a result of replacing or injecting lubricant. The vessel may contain an amount of pure lubricant for the air-conditioning system, or a lubricant and fluorescent dye to aid in detecting leaks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Tony Ferraro, Andrew Chochol, Leslie Pawlowski
  • Publication number: 20120272668
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for selecting refrigerant and lubricant combinations for use in heat transfer cycle systems and provides methods for operating said heat transfer systems. More particularly, the invention provides methods to select lubricant and refrigerant combinations for a heat transfer cycle system wherein at the lower temperatures of the heat transfer cycle the refrigerant and lubricant are miscible and at the upper temperatures of the heat transfer cycle the refrigerant and lubricant are phase separated and such that the density phase inversion temperature of the combination is below the upper operating temperature of the heat transfer cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Arkema Inc.
    Inventors: Brett L. Van Horn, Philippe Bonnet
  • Patent number: 8297063
    Abstract: A method for servicing a refrigeration system is disclosed. The refrigeration system contains a refrigerant and has a compressor, a high-side section and a low-side section. The method includes the steps of releasing the refrigerant from the refrigeration system from the high-side section; collecting the released refrigerant with a recovery container containing a refrigerant adsorptive substance; charging the refrigeration system with inert gas from the low-side section; and discharging the inert gas from the refrigeration system from the high-side section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brent Alden Junge, Michael Thomas Groh, Jeffrey Jacoby, Lee Mathieson, Richard Miller, Alan J. Mitchell, Michael Christopher Ross, Martin Mitchell Zentner
  • Patent number: 8295950
    Abstract: A refrigerated truck has a power management system for optimally distributing power between one or more energy sources, energy sinks, or energy storage components on the refrigerated truck. One such power consuming component includes a refrigeration unit that cools a refrigerated compartment of the refrigerated truck. Particularly with regard to this refrigeration unit, the power management system is operative to direct power from multiple power sources to the refrigeration unit so as to efficiently use available power. To do so, the power management system dynamically determines the availability of certain power sources and selects a preferred power source based on availability and a defined order of power source preference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: Jerry Lee Wordsworth, Jerry Barnes, Gregory D. Buckner
  • Publication number: 20120247131
    Abstract: A method for servicing a vehicle air-conditioning system operated with a closed coolant circulation system, in which in a first servicing phase, a circulation mixture of refrigerant, compressor oil and, if appropriate, further mixture components is sucked out from a vehicle air-conditioning system into a separator stage by means of a compressor via a separator and in the process refrigerant is separated from the sucked-out circulation mixture by means of the separator, compressed and collected, and its quantity is determined. In a second servicing phase, the refrigerant circulation system of the vehicle air-conditioning system is largely emptied of residual content by means of a vacuum pump. The residual gases which are pumped out in the second servicing phase are conducted through the separator stage by means of the compressor, and the quantity of residual refrigerant collected in the process is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Franz-Josef Esch
  • Publication number: 20120240601
    Abstract: A refrigerant additive supply device can include an outer rigid container, an inner flexible bag positioned in the outer rigid container and defining a space therebetween where the inner flexible bag contains an additive without a refrigerant, a valve in fluid communication with the inner flexible bag, an actuator operably coupled to the valve, and a propellant sealed within the space, where the inner flexible bag has a device pressure that allows flow of the additive into a refrigerant circuit when the actuator is depressed. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: Tire Seal, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Eggen, Phil Eggen, Paul Erdek
  • Publication number: 20120240602
    Abstract: An apparatus and method wherein potential ozone layer-damaging chlorodifluoromethane (Refrigerant R-22) is substituted with a mix of less environmentally damaging refrigerants pentafluoroethane and tetrafluoroethane in chlorodifluoromethane-based air-cooling systems mainly in residential cooling. While less environmentally damaging than chlorodifluoromethane, the substitute refrigerant has a temperature-pressure relationship similar to that of chlorodifluoromethane, making the substitute refrigerant suitable for use with chlorodifluoromethane-based air-cooling systems. In this event, it is mixed with a relatively small percentage of a lubricating oil which is compatible with both the unit refrigerant and typical R-22 system design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Ponder, Steffan Thomas, JR.
  • Patent number: 8272227
    Abstract: A method of adding refrigerant to an air conditioning system. The method includes measuring a first pressure inside of the air conditioning system and a second pressure inside of a container that holds refrigerant being added to the air conditioning system. The method also includes comparing the difference between the two measured pressures to empirical data in order to determine how long to pulse additional refrigerant into the air conditioning system. In addition, an apparatus configured to add refrigerant to an air conditioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Mark McMasters, William Brown
  • Patent number: 8245520
    Abstract: A method and a recovery container for collecting a hydrocarbon refrigerant are disclosed. The method includes releasing the hydrocarbon refrigerant from the refrigeration system, and collecting the released hydrocarbon refrigerant with a recovery container containing a hydrocarbon refrigerant adsorptive substance thereby binding the released hydrocarbon refrigerant to the hydrocarbon refrigerant adsorptive substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brent Alden Junge, Martin Mitchell Zentner, Alan Joseph Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20120192576
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatuses for servicing a refrigeration system are described herein. A system may include a fluid source and a device is capable of coupling to the fluid source, a measuring device and a fluid receiving system. The device may include a valve disposed passage disposed in a body of the apparatus that communicates with the fluid source, the measuring device and the fluid receiving system. A portion of the valve being engageable with a self-sealing valve of the refrigerant supply while inhibiting fluid flow between the fluid source and the measuring device and/or between the measuring device and the fluid receiving system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Vincent Carrubba
  • Patent number: 8230691
    Abstract: A method of cleaning an air conditioner utilizing carbon dioxide as a working refrigerant includes three steps. In a charging step, a refrigeration cycle is charged with carbon dioxide. In a venting step, a charging target with which the refrigeration cycle is charged is vented after the charging step. In a repeating step a unit operation is performed at least one time or more. The unit operation includes the charging step and the venting step. An air conditioner includes a refrigeration cycle configured to perform the unit operation at least one time, and a counter configured to count and output the number of times that the unit operation has been performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Kurihara, Hiromune Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20120186277
    Abstract: A pre-charged heating/cooling system is shown for installation by unlicensed personnel. An outside unit includes an outside coil, outside fan, compressor and a reversing valve. An inside unit has an inside coil, inside fan for drawing air through the inside coil and discharging the conditioned air into the enclosed space, and a power cord connection. Electrical connections between the inside unit and the outside unit are secured in position by an electrical disconnect cover. A covering box covers both the electrical and refrigerant connections to the outside unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Friedrich Air Conditioning Co., a division of U.S. Natural Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Lingrey, Charles Anthony Wheeler, JR., Kevin L. Eicher
  • Patent number: 8225618
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for recovering fluids in various states from a system includes a motor that is configured to engage a compressor in a first direction and engage a compressor in a second direction depending on the fluids contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventors: David J. Boyd, Max E. Massac, Charles R. Shambaugh
  • Patent number: 8215119
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a refrigerant filling apparatus of the refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus that can automatically finish filling of a refrigerant after filling to an appropriate amount, without a need to install an extra valve except for a valve provided at a refrigerant cylinder, in between the refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus and the refrigerant cylinder, which is necessary for filling the refrigerant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsunori Sakai, Masato Yosomiya, Hirokuni Shiba
  • Publication number: 20120167599
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an air conditioning or refrigeration apparatus, and in particular, a chiller apparatus containing a composition comprising 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene and 1,2-dichloroethylene, wherein the 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene is cis isomer or primarily cis isomer and wherein the 1,2-dichloroethylene is trans isomer or primarily trans isomer. These chillers may be flooded evaporators or direct expansion evaporators, which utilize centrifugal compressors. Also disclosed herein are methods for producing cooling comprising evaporating a composition comprising cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene in the vicinity of a body to be cooled. Also disclosed herein are compositions comprising cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, wherein the cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene is present at 50 to about 60 weight percent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: E.I. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: Konstantinos Kontomaris
  • Patent number: 8205461
    Abstract: A method and system for detecting a low charge condition in an air conditioner for a vehicle. The system first determines whether noise factors are present that would interfere with reliably measuring a pressure delta. If noise factors are not present, the system determines a pressure delta value for the compressor by comparing the high side pressure when the clutch is engaged to a high side pressure when the clutch is disengaged. If the pressure delta value is less than a threshold value, a low charge condition may be recorded. When the number of low charge conditions detected exceeds a predetermined number of events, the system may set a temperature diagnostic trouble code, disable the air conditioning system and alert the driver of a potential problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William Stewart Johnston, David Alan Wong, Hugh Hamilton, Manfred Koberstein, Debasish Dhar
  • Publication number: 20120090336
    Abstract: A refrigerant recovery unit for accurately filling a refrigerant system with a refrigerant is provided which includes a storage vessel for holding refrigerant, sensors to assist in determining the pressure of the refrigerant in the storage vessel, a controller to control the flow of refrigerant from the storage vessel to the refrigerant system to be serviced, and a heating device to heat the refrigerant, which is activated only if heating is required, as determined by data received by the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: William Brown, Mark McMasters
  • Patent number: 8146373
    Abstract: A system and method for improving the efficiency of a refrigerated air conditioning system utilizing a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. The improved system includes an accessory sub-cooling unit which is fluidly connected between the condensing coil and the expansion valve in a closed loop refrigeration system utilizing a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. The accessory sub-cooling unit comprises a serpentine heat exchange tube having one end fluidly connected downstream of the condensing coil prior to the expansion valve. The accessory sub-cooling unit further comprises a plurality of parallel planar heat transfer fins to assist the heat transfer from the heat exchange tube to the ambient air. In accordance with the method of the present invention, the accessory sub-cooling unit is mounted to a side of the condenser unit in order to utilize the existing air flow generated by the exhaust fan of the condenser unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Amos A. Snow, III
  • Publication number: 20120073313
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the refrigerant system in which the refrigerant amount stored in the accumulator may be adjusted by the super cooling adjustment unit according to the indoor conditioning load. Therefore, according to the present invention, the flow refrigerant amount on the refrigerant cycle may be optimally adjusted according to the indoor conditioning load, and there is an advantage that the operation efficiency may be more improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Hojong Jeong, Baikyoung Chung, Jaehwa Jung, Yongcheol Sa, Byungsoon Kim
  • Publication number: 20120031116
    Abstract: A method of adding refrigerant to an air conditioning system. The method includes measuring a first pressure inside of the air conditioning system and a second pressure inside of a container that holds refrigerant being added to the air conditioning system. The method also includes comparing the difference between the two measured pressures to empirical data in order to determine how long to pulse additional refrigerant into the air conditioning system. In addition, an apparatus configured to add refrigerant to an air conditioning system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Mark McMasters, William Brown
  • Publication number: 20120031117
    Abstract: Evaporative cooler media kits and methods of use are disclosed. The media kit is for providing replacement media for use in one or more of a plurality of evaporative coolers. The media kit comprises a plurality of main media components, a plurality of distribution media components, a first width adjustment component, and a second width adjustment component. The method is for installing replacement media in an evaporative cooler is disclosed. The method comprises arranging a plurality of main media components side by side within the opening of the frame, inserting at least one distribution media component in a first gap extending between a top surface of the main media components and a top of the frame, and inserting at least one width adjustment component in a second gap extending between a side surface of the main media components and a side of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: CHAMPION COOLER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Alan Langton
  • Patent number: 8109105
    Abstract: In a refrigerating air conditioning system using refrigerant such as CO2 used in a supercritical area, a highly efficient refrigerating air conditioning system is provided by adjusting the amount of refrigerant in a radiator which contributes to the efficiency of the system stably and quickly. During heat utilizing operation, the superheat at the exit of an evaporator is controlled to a predetermined value by controlling the opening of an expansion valve provided on the upstream side of the evaporator, and an expansion valve is controlled so that the state of refrigerant in a connection pipe on the high-pressure side becomes a supercritical state. In this state, a flow rate control valve is controlled to change the density of the refrigerant stored in a refrigerant storage container and the amount of refrigerant existing in the radiator is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Fumitake Unezaki, Tetsuji Saikusa, Takashi Okazaki, Makoto Saitou, Hirokuni Shiba, Sou Nomoto
  • Publication number: 20120023972
    Abstract: Gas vaporizer for flashing liquid to vapor received from a source prior to introduction into a compressor or the like, such as in air conditioning or refrigeration systems. In certain embodiments the vaporize includes an adapter member for connection to a liquid source, a connector member having a plurality of flow passages for facilitating the transfer of heat to fluid present therein to vaporize the same, a body portion providing visual access such as via one or more sight glasses to an internal chamber therein for visual confirmation that liquid has been vaporized, and a hose connecting member for connection to a point of destination such as a compressor. In certain embodiments, the connector has an axial bore containing a high thermal conductive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: UNIWELD PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: David S. Pearl, II, Dragan Bukur, David Foster, Douglas B. Pearl
  • Publication number: 20120023973
    Abstract: Compressor with double compression chamber and gas purification process, having a set of movable mechanisms and fixed parts, and procedures for the preparation of refrigerators and hermetic compressors before filling with refrigerant gas, which greatly enhances the energetic efficiency and useful life of refrigeration compressors. Additional, by adding a process tube, made of copper, steel, or any other appropriate material to the side wall of the hermetic or semi-hermetic compressor, on its bottom, or attached vertically to the central base of the compressor. This additional tube and the traditional suction tubes, discharge process, follows an alternative construction format to enhance the efficiency and useful life of a refrigeration system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Aurelio Mayorca
  • Publication number: 20120017610
    Abstract: A refrigerant that is azeotropic or near-azeotropic comprises a binary blend of R744 and R41. In one embodiment the binary blend has a molar composition of 20 to 60 percent R744, the remainder being R41.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: EARTHCARE PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventors: Nicholas Cox, Victor Mazur, Daniel Colburne, Andrew Stevenson
  • Publication number: 20120011864
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and processes of using perfluoropolyether to maintain or improve the oil return, lubrication, cooling capacity, or energy efficiency of a refrigeration, air conditioning or heat transfer system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: E. I. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventors: THOMAS J. LECK, Thomas Frank Saturno, Gregory A. Bell
  • Publication number: 20120011863
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for introducing one or more hydrohalocarbon refrigerants into a heat transfer system from a vessel by recovering the one or more hydrohalocarbon refrigerants from the heat transfer system; monitoring the vapor pressure in the vessel and if the vapor pressure in the vessel becomes greater than 3 psi over the expected saturation pressure for the one or more hydrohalocarbon refrigerants then releasing vapor from the vessel; and returning said one or more hydrohalocarbon refrigerants to the heat transfer system by drawing liquid refrigerant from the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Seeton, David P. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8096137
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include systems and methods for guiding and supporting an evaporator structure with respect to a refrigeration unit. In one embodiment, a system can include a guide rail adapted to mount to a housing associated with a refrigeration unit, and a guide support adapted to mount to an evaporator structure, wherein the guide support can be aligned with the guide rail, and the guide support can maintain close proximity to the guide rail when the evaporator structure is moved adjacent to the refrigeration unit. In other embodiments, associated methods of use and installation for the system can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Hoshizaki America, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradford Roy Czerwonky, Randy Edward Johnson, Yusuke Kawakami
  • Patent number: 8078326
    Abstract: Control devices for configuring heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The control devices are designed to detect operational parameters of units within HVAC systems and present system configurations consistent with the detected parameters. In response to user selection of a system configuration, the control device may apply the system configuration to the HVAC system and may reconfigure settings of control circuits within system units. The system configurations presented by the control device may correspond to wiring diagrams that are familiar to service technicians. Methods of configuring HVAC systems with the control devices are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Greg R. Harrod, Brian D. Rigg, Nathan T. Ostrye, Jedidiah O. Bentz
  • Publication number: 20110296854
    Abstract: This invention belongs to the area of heat pump/refrigeration technology, which provides absorption heat pump of multiterminal heating and the ways of additional adjacent high-temperature heating-side. Refrigerating fluid flows from a generator to a new absorber, and then into a new absorption-evaporator, and finally into the generator. Refrigerating fluid flows from the generator to the new absorption-evaporator, and then into the new absorber, the generator. Refrigerant vapor in the condenser flows through a new throttle, and then into the new absorption-evaporator and the new absorber. Refrigerant vapor in the evaporator flows through the new liquid refrigerant pump, and then into the new absorption-evaporator and the new absorber. The pipeline of heated medium in the new absorber is connected with the external. The invention can form new units of simple structure and high heating temperature, and reduce the temperature requirement of cooling medium or actuated-hot when it is used to refrigeration type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Huayu Li