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    • 专利摘要:
    electronic controller mechanism, heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration system, system for automatic control of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration system and electronic controller mechanism method for automatically controlling and managing the load demand and operation of the energy consuming equipment energized by alternating electrical power current, where feedback signals, from a vapor compression evaporator or other source, and possibly other physical signals, are used to supplement preset, memorized settings or pattern to optimize compressor operation (runtime) in cooling and refrigeration equipment, and thus improve heat transfer in the evaporator.
    公开号:BR112015023587B1
    申请号:R112015023587-5
    申请日:2014-03-14
    公开日:2021-09-08
    发明作者:Thomas A. Mills Jr.；Stanley BUDNEY
    申请人:Pacecontrols Llc；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Invention history
    [0001] The present invention relates to a system and mechanism to automatically control and optimize electrically controlled energy consumption equipment, including heating equipment triggered by gas, oil and propane controlled through electrically energized control systems. The present invention also relates to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment systems incorporating the mechanism and methods of using the mechanism in such systems.
    [0002] Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and/or refrigeration (“HVACR” or “HVAC&R”) control systems are designed to perform two main functions: temperature regulation and dehumidification. The growing focus on carbon footprint and green technologies has led to numerous energy-related improvements including more efficient refrigerators, variable speed compressors and fans, cycle modifications and more efficient incinerators. While some of these improvements can be found in many units of new HVAC&R equipment, there is a large installed base of existing legacy equipment still in operation, but often unable to take advantage of these energy-related improvements as retrofit improvements.
    [0003] Common retrofit technologies aimed at energy use include methodologies such as throttling, temperature anticipation, equipment preparation, variable speed fans, incinerators and compressors, and closed-loop load monitoring, rather than those based on timers. It is often difficult to adjust existing installations with these methodologies as they are highly dependent on HVAC&R equipment, configuration and installation details. Adding a conventional energy saving methodology to an existing HVAC&R system can be costly and time-consuming.
    [0004] U.S. Patent Nos. 5,687,139 and 5,426,620 (the Budney '139 and '620 patents) partially refer to a specially controlled switch in a control signal line of individual units of electrical equipment, such as a control signal line in a standard air conditioning unit, which combines a digital recycling counter with a control line for an electrical load. The control device's digital recycling counter is used with presets to provide demand control on a wide variety of electrically energized equipment. In addition to the Budney nominated patents, numerous other patents also relate to the HVAC&R system, equipment power, and demand control and management. In this regard, this application for registration incorporates, by reference to its entirety, each of the following: US Patent No. 5,426,620 (Budney), 5,687,139 (Budney), 7,177,728 (Gardner), 5,735,134 (Sheng Liu et al.), 6,658,373 (Rossi et al.), 5,261,247 (Knezic et al. ), 5,996,361 (Bessler et al.), 5,669,222 (Jaster et al.) and 7,242,114 (Cannon et al.) Summary of the Present Invention
    [0005] A feature of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and/or refrigeration (HVAC&R) system that is controlled using feedback signals from a vapor compression evaporator and/or another source, and possibly other physical signals, which are used to supplement preset, memorized settings (via optimization programs and fuzzy logic), or default settings to optimize compressor operation (run time) in the cooling equipment and refrigeration, and also to improve heat transfer in the evaporator.
    [0006] An additional feature is to provide a mechanism that can optimize burner operation in gas, oil and propane fired heating equipment in a similar manner, and also to thereby improve heat transfer through the burner heat exchanger .
    [0007] Another feature is to provide a mechanism that can be used to optimize compressor operation in compressed air, or other gas compression operations.
    [0008] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be partially set forth in the description below, and partially will be apparent from the description, or may be memorized by practice of the present invention. The objectives and other advantages of the present invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly highlighted in the description and appended claims.
    [0009] To achieve these and other advantages, and in accordance with the objectives of the present invention, as incorporated and broadly described herein, the present invention relates to an electronic controller mechanism to automatically control and manage load demand and operation of the energy consuming equipment energized by switching the current of electrical energy, comprising: a) a controller switch connected in series with a control signal line which connects to a load unit control switch which controls the flow of energy operative for a load unit and controller switch capable of opening and closing the control signal line; b) a digital recycling counter comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal on the control signal line, and capable of defining a running time elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the unit of cargo; c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of setting a runtime elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit; d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for improved optimization of energy use and/or load unit demand, comprising at least one of the default initial values and a look-up table, which is capable to ensure that a load unit performs in no more than a memorized number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load; e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to monitor at least one physical value related to a load unit load cycle and/or a space temperature; f) a selection control signal device capable of selecting a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and producing a selected signal as a control signal selected to the controller switch, wherein the feedback signals from the load unit are processable by the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize the operation of the load unit. load (runtime) on the cooling and refrigeration equipment, and also to improve heat transfer in the evaporator, and also similarly to optimize gas, oil or propane fired burner operation, and also compressed air or other operation of gas compression.
    [00010] The present invention also relates to a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC&R) system comprising the indicated control mechanism, a thermostat or other control signal source, and at least one load unit of HVAC&R, operatively connected to a power supply line.
    [00011] The present invention also relates to a method for automatically controlling and managing the load demand and operation of an electrically powered HVAC&R load unit, which comprises the steps of electrically connecting the control mechanism mechanism indicated in a control signal line between a thermostat or other control signal source to a load device and an equipment load control switch to the load device.
    [00012] It is to be understood that both the preceding general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are intended to provide a further explanation of the present invention as claimed.
    [00013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application for registration, illustrate some of the embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. Brief description of the drawings
    [00014] Figure 1 is a block/schematic diagram of an HVAC&R system including an electronic controller mechanism, according to an example of the present invention;
    [00015] Figure 2A is a plan showing the operation of a 4-unit air conditioning system operating at a design load by normal controls (amps and hours), and figure 2B is a plan showing a simulation under one system. management panel showing operation of the same 4-unit air conditioning system under a prototype controller mechanism mechanism corresponding to an example of the present invention, and showing reduced power consumption for the same load (amps and hours);
    [00016] Figure 3A is a labeled diagram that shows the basic components and thermodynamic cycle of a vapor compression cooling or refrigeration system;
    [00017] Figure 3B is a labeled diagram showing the mechanical components of a vapor compression cooling or refrigeration system; and
    [00018] Figure 4A and 4B are plans showing the tests of a controller mechanism according to a prototype example of the present invention to optimize a gas fired commercial domestic hot water boiler burner operation (°F and hours). Detailed description of the present invention
    [00019] The present invention partially relates to an electronic controller mechanism mechanism for providing automatic control in an HVAC&R system or other electrically controlled cooling and/or heating systems, and/or a gas or air compression system tablet, and the like. The controller mechanism of the present invention may encompass the units included within the dotted oval 1 in Figure 1, entitled "Energy Efficiency/Demand Control Mechanism Mechanism". Referring to Figure 1, AC power is supplied via power lines 3 through AC power meter 2, which measures electrical energy utilization and electrical energy demand at such a location. Through the load unit control switch 4, the AC power supplies a power consumption load unit 5 - in the examples provided, an HVAC&R compressor or burner, or gas/compressed air compression compressor. AC power can also supply auxiliary equipment 6 through auxiliary equipment control switch 7.
    [00020] In the mechanism of the present invention within the oval 1, the selector central processing unit (CPU) 8 receives inputs from a variety of sources, to determine the best optimization signal selected to optimize the controller switch 9. In the illustration of Figure 1, these inputs include the digital recycling counter 10, the digital clock 11 and the memory module 12. The memory module 12, in turn, received inputs from a look-up library 13 of the manufacturer data and historical algorithmic inputs. related to equipment energy optimization. The memorization module 12 also receives inputs from an operational recording module 14, which contains a set of running data on equipment operating variables that are obtained through sensors 15 (e.g., refrigerant mass flow rate sensor , temperature sensor, pressure sensor and the like), as conditioned by external condition devices 16. Mechanism 1 can be operated, and its outputs and inputs viewed, through local or remote input/output user interfaces 17 (eg, a thermostat or other control signal source).
    [00021] With the electronic controller mechanism mechanism of the present invention, feedback signals from a vapor compression evaporator or other source, and possibly other physical signals, can be used to supplement the preset, memorized settings (via optimization and fuzzy logic programs), or default settings to optimize compressor operation (runtime) in the cooling and refrigeration equipment, as well as to improve heat transfer in the evaporator. The effect can be to improve the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Coefficient of Performance (COP) for the unit. Likewise, the electronic controller mechanism mechanism may allow a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals to change these preset, memorized or default settings to deliver Demand Response and “intelligent grid” functionality. These external commanded control signals can be useful for extremely controlled "regulation" of the energy consumption of air conditioning or refrigeration, subject to protections through external thermostatic sensors, to allow the reduction of electrical demand at various levels (building sector, installation or electric grid sector). This device and demand controller mechanism mechanism can also be useful to ensure the reliability of a defined allocation of solar PV electrical energy in the associated installation, such as the improvement of systems shown in US Patent No. 7,177,728, through of a different mechanism or thermodynamic action, and allow the optimization of equipment fired by gas, oil or propane (fuel fired heating), such as that used for space and water heating, and process heating. In the case of fuel-triggered heating equipment, feedback signals originating from a supplemental temperature or pressure monitoring device or sensor can be used to supplement preset, memorized, or default settings to optimize burner operation (time of execution) in the fuel-fired heating equipment, and also to thus improve the heat transfer in the burner combustion space to the heating medium (air or water). Likewise, to allow a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals to change these preset, memorized or default settings to deliver Demand Response and other functionality. The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of the present invention can further provide additional improvements in energy efficiency and/or demand control over previous controller equipment for HVAC&R systems, such as those shown in the Budney '139 and '260 patents .
    [00022] Additionally, there are recent concerns regarding security issues with building level control systems interconnected with Internet connectivity. The present invention provides an elegant "single point energy management system" approach to deliver significant energy savings at the HVAC&R unit device level, without the need for accessible internet interconnection.
    [00023] As such, the electronic controller mechanism mechanism is uniquely suited to deliver all of the following, in an extraordinarily wide variety of applications in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR), as well as in the cooling and heating of process, equipment, such as in the following:
    [00024] Energy efficiency improvements in basic thermal cycles,
    [00025] Integral compressor anti-short cycling protection and other life extending features including optional soft start circuit,
    [00026] Aggregate load diversification and demand reduction (for electric, or also gas or other fossil fuel, distribution networks),
    [00027] Finely controllable Demand Response functionality,
    [00028] Ability to deliver additional load reduction additional load reduction and other functionality (eg, PV Solar array optimization) in response to external or system commanded signals,
    [00029] The order concerns both the device and the programming of the control circuit. As such, it can be used both as an enhancement device (realization), and as an enhancement to the existing control circuitry by HVACR, and potentially other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). If performed algorithmically in the control architecture of control systems, these control systems: -may be at the HVACR unit level, at the level of a building or campus, or a larger system; and/or -may also be part of a wired or wireless network, ie a building management system or energy management system (BMS/EMS).
    [00030] As a retrofit device, the electronic controller mechanism mechanism is an extraordinarily versatile "universal smart node" HVAC&R - capable of delivering fixed-state energy efficiency improvements for a wide variety of cooling, cooling and heating equipment ; Automatic or manual Demand Response for isolated activities or “smart grid” ISO level, and Solar PV reliability optimization, much of it without the need for costly and difficult wired or wireless interconnection. The electronic controller mechanism mechanism can be incorporated into a single unitary device including all the features that are included in the larger oval shown in Figure 1, or the controller mechanism mechanism can be incorporated into several different parts that are operatively connected together to function as described here. The controller mechanism mechanism can include standard connectors (eg, pin terminal connectors or others) for signal inputs and signal outputs.
    [00031] Operation in optimization of cooling or refrigeration operation
    [00032] The vapor compression cooling/refrigeration unit (VCCR) compressor(s) may operate under a selected control signal, which signal can be derived from the smaller of the following, as also shown by the diagram in Figure 1: a) an elapsed time interval as defined by a digital recycling counter or by a timer counter that starts its counting when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle starts, b) a decrease in chiller mass flow rate, or a proxy variable for chiller mass flow rate, through the evaporator coil, from an initial level to a preset, memorized or default fraction of such a level, or to a level critical relative obtained from a look-up table, c) a change in another physical value monitored in the VCCR unit cycle, or d) receipt of a thermostat-satisfied signal from the thermostatic monitoring device to associated.
    [00033] Run times can be further selected by a control mechanism mechanism that ensures the VCCR compressor operates in no more than the following number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: a) pre-number fixed, memorized or default (eg 6 times per hour), or b) a number obtained from a look-up table.
    [00034] A selected control signal may be a signal produced from a circuit device used to select the highest or lowest of a plurality of separate control signals and supply power to a load in accordance with the selected signal from control. Techniques for selection control signals can be adapted for use in this regard. For example, see US Pat. 2,725,549 and 3,184,611, which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.
    [00035] The above multiple compare/error signals enhance compressor operation, and the fundamental optimization timer control a) also ensures electrical load diversity within a network, ie synchronized operation. In this way, the mechanism can reduce or eliminate electrical load peaking from a group of YCCR devices without the need for a wired or wireless connection, while the energy efficiency of each device is improved. This two-tier improvement in power grid operations (improved unit-level energy efficiency plus reduced aggregate demand, on a real-time basis) is enhanced by this enhancement optimization engine's engine.
    [00036] The VCCR compressor(s) can operate under the regime described above, and then they can be idle thanks to the device. The duration of the idle interval can be under a selected control signal, which signal can be derived from the longer of the following, as also shown by the flowchart below: a) an increase in the evaporator coil release temperature from an initial level to a pre-fixed, memorized or default fractional mode upper level (increased superheat, after change of state and heating of the saturated refrigerant gas in the evaporator; i.e., after change of state, vs. merely increasing superheat), or to a relative critical level obtained from a look-up table, for example one developed from OEM guidelines regarding minimum idle times to avoid compressor short cycling. b) An elapsed interval of pre-defined, pre-derived or memorized time, as defined by a digital recycling counter or through a recycling timer that starts its counting when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle stops (as further noted below, all of these time intervals may reflect a body of knowledge and promulgations from compressor OEMs regarding minimum “off” times to avoid short cycling - thus this interval can add short cycling protection to the unit associated VCCR, c) a change in another monitored physical value in the VCCR unit cycle, or d) receipt of a thermostat call signal from the associated thermostatic monitoring device.
    [00037] As per the runtimes, the VCCR compressor idle times can be further selected against a control mechanism mechanism that ensures the VCCR compressor operates in no more than the following number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: a) a pre-fixed, memorized or standard number (eg 6 times an hour), or b) a number obtained from a look-up table. Upon receipt of a signal from a programmable thermostat with night delay, the device may also be able to extend compressor “off” cycles and/or reduce “on” cycles in a similar manner as for Demand Response ( also see further description below), according to a set of elapsed intervals of pre-defined, pre-derived or memorized time, as described above.
    [00038] The device, as incorporated as a retrofit and conforming to algorithmic form, is capable of operating multi-stage compressors within a given VCCR unit.
    [00039] A significant potential advantage of the device's optimized compressor operation, with anti-short cycling, is the improved protection from fluidization (liquid cooler passage into the compressor) and also from coil freezing, as described below. As such, the chiller load may be able to be increased on a VCCR, thus providing more thermal mass in the system and thus more cooling capacity for the same electrical rating.
    [00040] Another potential advantage of the device is its enhancement of economizer operations. A common problem with economizers is the deterioration of humidity monitoring, resulting in very humid air being brought into the space - the device provides better control. Yet another is the device's ability to assess the effect of idling condenser fans and other auxiliary equipment on VCCR operation, and then to deactivate it at intervals during VCCR operation. In addition to additional energy savings, idle condenser fans can improve heat transfer by allowing higher cooler pressures to be maintained.
    [00041] Also, with respect to using Recycle Timer vs. real-time timer — the above mechanism requires a device that recycles (counts from 0 and resets), a timer, or a counter. The use of a timer will not do what a system using a digital recycling counter, as shown in Budney's '139 and '620 patents, can do.
    [00042] The mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism or device offers a very low cost and elegant mode to at once a) allow the optimization of individual compressor cycling without any power requirement, and without interference with control inputs in real-time, b) deliberately asynchronous operation of a compressor cohort without the need for costly wired or wireless controls, c) granular Demand Response functionality, and d) low-cost frequency driven load active or passive shedding. All in one base unit with possibly one or more low-cost peripherals.
    [00043] If a recycling timer is used exclusively in the mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism, it is possible to obtain some benefits from the system, but there will not be the guaranteed diversification in time of the electric load operation, demonstrable with an asynchronous network composed of electric loads multiples (cooling or refrigeration), all optimized through a digital recycling counter that is based on AC power line frequency. This diversity can be seen and is useful even within single electrical operating systems, for example a multiple compressor cooling unit. Figures 2A and 2B show the effect of such asynchronous network operation on current extraction as seen by the electrical meter of 4 large air conditioning units operating on a single electrical panel. Figure 2A shows the operation of a 4-unit air conditioning system operating at design load under normal controls (amps and hours), and figure 2B shows a controlled simulation under a construction management system, showing operation of the same 4-unit air conditioning system under the control of a prototype of a controller mechanism mechanism of the present invention (amps and hours). More specifically, the diagrams in figures 2A and 2B show the front/back measurement of an electrical panel energizing 4 large package A/C units (40-50 tons) in a larger distribution center, clearly showing average demand changing from - 80 amps to -60 (current draw current per phase is 4x shown as there are 4 conductors per phase; thus the average current draw drops from -320 to -240 amps per phase, or a 25% reduction ).
    [00044] In addition, referring to prior art recycling timers that can be adapted for use in this application, they were first developed by SSAC (later ABB SSAC) as part of the "RC" circuits for lights. This mechanism of the timing control mechanism proved unreliable, and SSAC then went to power line frequency counting for diversity and synchronization. They cannot do this in time, as nothing being controlled in the HVACR unit, as configured in the present invention, is operating on a real-time basis. Although the job started with real-time indexing, then switched to time-based recycling (JO) timers, these still do not allow for the desired operation. Likewise, with time-based recycle timers, the compressor starts when power returns after a power outage, rather than leaving the switch closed and then the optimization count starts. The result is that the compressor can be turned on and off quickly, with short cycling of the compressor.
    [00045] One realization of the indicated controller/device mechanism of the present invention, once installed by the technician, can portray all or any of the indicated optimization setpoint options above, i.e.: a) pre-defined/pre-derived , b) memorized optimization based on real-time retrospective inputs, or even a memorizing component on the first X equipment cycles, c) values from a look-up table, or d) other setpoint sources.
    [00046] In this way, the installation of the engine/device is exclusively facilitated as “set [or “install”] and forget”. The preset value sets may come from the factory, and the values a)-d) above may be able to be changed or canceled if the device is part of a wired or wireless network, such as a management system building or energy management system (BMS/EMS).
    [00047] Flexibility in tuning the regulation is necessary when realizing as a VCCR tuning device, so that different equipment may have different time delays and operating parameters that must take effect. It is particularly important not to have minimal inflexible pre-assembly, as existing control architecture may have limits: for example, for a large ground source heat pump, the various time delays could require a very short incremental idle period (eg .:, an OFF period of 0.1 minute), although the total idle time could be closer to 2.8 minutes.
    [00048] Mechanism of the device operating mechanism in the cooling and refrigeration cycles
    [00049] The effect may have the purpose of improving the basic vapor compression cooling cycle in a number of ways, notably the following: (1) making the evaporator heat transfer more efficient, thereby increasing the heat transfer BTUs per minute compressor runtime, (2) largely eliminate coil freezing, (3) reduce average compressor motor temperatures, (4) improve lubrication, and (5) programmatically eliminate short-cycling. Figures 3A-B are named for the purposes of the following discussion. Briefly, the vapor compression cooling cycle is the basic technology for most air conditioning equipment, and almost all refrigeration equipment. It is helpful to think of the cooling loop operation at the level of the molecules of R-22 (or R-410A, etc.) cooler in the cooling loop. A good explanation of the cooling cycle is as noted in Weston, Energy Conversion (Ch. 8, “Cooling and Air Conditioning,” West Engineering - Series, 1992), on which the diagrams shown in figures 3A and 3B are based . The following is a step-by-step overview: (1) As the HVAC unit starts up, the compressor (A) is doing the work of compressing the steam coolers as it exits the evaporator coils (B) in the cooled region, collecting the heat as it passes through the coils. The sub-cooled (below boiling point) molecules of R-22 absorb heat at boiling to slightly superheated steam (above boiling point), as shown in the idealized temperature entropy diagram of the vapor compression cycle as shown in Figure 3A. (2) The compressed steam then operates through the condenser (C), where it condenses and gives up heat, then (3) passes through the HVAC unit regulating device (D) - normally in HVAC units of the expected size in these designs, a thermal expansion valve (TXV, TEV) or electronic orifice. The TXV's job is “to provide the necessary flow resistance to maintain the pressure difference between the two heat exchangers (evaporator and condenser). It also serves to control the flow rate from the condenser to the evaporator” (Weston, p. 284). Initially, the TXV is wide open, and the flow of R-22 through the evaporator is largely limited only by the pumping action of the compressor. As the HVAC unit operates, however, and the TXV closes, 2 parallel and linked phenomena occur in the evaporator and compressor. First, there are fewer R-22 molecules per unit time in the evaporator — due to the higher TXV regulation — and thus fewer molecules per unit time capable of boiling to steam, thus less cooling per unit of compressor runtime. Second, the compressor, meanwhile, is now pumping against a higher pressure downstream—in mechanical terms, pumping against a more closed valve, and thus having to do more work to deliver the volume of coolant. This can lead to increased compressor motor winding heating, and these 2 phenomena will be seen with a wide variety of positive displacement compressor types used in HVAC equipment. Both contribute to reducing system efficiency, in terms of cooling delivered per unit time vs. electricity consumed to deliver this.
    [00050] What the Enhancement Unit (RU) does is provide a very flexible way of operating the compressor for an optimized time interval, during which a maximized amount of R-22 is being vaporized per unit time, and then disable the compressor (the largest energy consuming element in the cool down cycle) for a time specified by OEMs to eliminate short cycling. During this OEM-specified OFF time — typically only on the order of 3-4 minutes — cooling and dehumidification continues as auxiliary equipment (blowers and fans, E and F in the diagram in figure 3B) continues to operate. The evaporator coil will heat up slightly, with 2 beneficial effects: (1) Reduced freezing of the incipient evaporator coil — the first layer of crystal formation is essential for further freezing in the coil, and reduced freezing in the coil is a great ancillary benefit of the RU installation. (2) When the compressor turns on again and R-22 is again injected into the evaporator coils, slightly increased temperatures will improve the boiling rate of R-22 to steam, thus the heating load removed by unit time.
    [00051] The 2nd Law of Thermodynamics says that (Weston, p. 271) “energy (heat) will not flow from cold to hot regions without assistance”, like work added to the system. In vapor compression cooling cycles, such work is carried out by the compressor, consequently it is generally the biggest energy consuming device in the HVAC unit. The heat removed from the space cooled by the evaporator coil QL, and the heat rejected via the condenser coil QH, where h(i) is the enthalpy of the mass of R-22 (lbs.) "M", with the flow rate of mass (lb/hour) “m”, at points 1,2,3,4 in the temperature entropy diagram in Figure 3A, can be written as (eg, Weston, p. 281):
    [00052] Evaporator coil:

    [00053] Condenser coil:

    [00054] The compressor W work to make this energy flow is then related to QL and QH, such as:

    [00055] The heat transfer of the evaporator coil in BTUs, over the period of time "t", can be thus provided by:

    [00056] The heat transfer of the evaporator coil in BTUs, over time period “t” (continued):

    [00057] As a more detailed focus on heat transfer from the evaporator coil: 1. TXV monitoring bulb (D) monitors at point 1 the degree of superheat in R-22 leaving the evaporator (B), and opens and closes to maintain an overheated vapor barrier to the compressor to prevent damage to the compressor from liquid R-22 entering it. 2.However, too much superheat obtained in the coil means less liquid R-22 in the coil capable of flashing to steam, to provide cooling - the R-22 is passed through the last part of the coil unable to deliver maximum cooling (via R-22 flashing for steam). This can be seen in IR photographs of RU-enhanced and non-enhanced spirals - in the latter case, a significant portion of the coil's release end is red. 3. Likewise, higher superheats heat up the compressor, with consequent negative effects on compressor life. RU, by optimizing compressor runtime, also allows for optimization of superheat conditions - compressor idle time complements superheat in compressor protection, enabling lower superheat with maintained compressor safety. 4. The result is a cooler coil, with more surface area devoted to vaporization of R-22 vs. overheating - combined with higher average mass flow rate means QL heat transfer is maintained. 5. Sequences in RU enhanced A/C unit operation vs. “Basal”: Basal: Compressor operates with TXV open first, then closes to keep AP between evaporator and condenser; large superheat, RU: Compressor operates with TXV open, so as TXV continues to close, compressor idle for ~3 minutes —> T j P j at Point 1, TXV opens again to increase mass flow of R-22 into coil ; when the compressor restarts, greater mass flow AND less R-22 inlet subcooling, more reduced output superheat, results in improved heat transfer. 6. Thus, Basal vs. Heat Transfer. perfected by RU:

    [00058] As the last equation in the above description shows, operating the compressor during periods of enhanced mass flow rate (m(t)) and enthalpy change (dh(t)), and thus heat transfer per unit compressor runtime on the coil, allows maintenance of the total heat transferred by the coil (QL), even when the compressor runtime is reduced (dt).
    [00059] This is exactly what is shown in the controlled laboratory test described in figures 4A and 4B. The Enhancement Unit (RU) sets the hottest coils during the compressor idle period, which can collect more heat and can therefore cause more refrigeration to change state as soon as it is admitted again.
    [00060] This is in contrast to the typical VCCR configuration, where the evaporator coils are cooler as the compressor starts to drive the cooler; as such, the cooler takes longer to change state (vaporize), and vaporization is the main heat removal mechanism - not simply heating the cooler's sensible temperature. The hotter the coil, within the limits created by the RU, the greater the mass state change, with the related effects of cooler density via the lower mean coil temperatures. And because the RU only deactivates the compressor, leaving the auxiliary equipment (blowers and fans) operating normally, during the beneficial off period, the room heat continues to charge the coil.
    [00061] These phenomena are also clearly visible in infrared thermography of VCCR evaporators with and without the enhanced device. The action of compressor optimization allows the most linear surface of the compressor coil to be fitted to transfer latent heat from vaporization.
    [00062] A major additional benefit of the RU for VCCR operations is the reduction in coil freezing, a major decrement to system energy efficiency. During an extensive empirical study, the cooler's evaporator spirals were observed as they start to freeze after startup, and in the process they build up an insulating barrier between -40°C (-40°F) below gas and 26°C air, 7°C (80°F) (outside air does not see -40°C (-40°F) but ice temperature of 0°C (32°F) instead). A frozen coil omits tremendous cooling delta-T and the cooling rate directly proportional to delta-T. This is why parasitic heating approaches (electrical resistance heating, or hot gas bypass) are typically used in almost all refrigeration, and much of air conditioning equipment.
    [00063] Existing technology to improve the energy efficiency of vapor compression cycles has generally focused on control, and particularly feedback, shortcomings - to work on measurement time lags, controller time lags, and adding more inputs. The device described, by comparison, focuses on the inherent thermodynamics of the heat transfer cycle - while the feedback loop (thermostatic controls) remains as it is, in control. And it is performed in a way to use asynchronous digital control network principles, which also makes the technology of the present invention excellent as a low-cost, easily organizeable “smart grid” demand response approach.
    [00064] The mechanism of the device's operating mechanism to deliver Demand Response, Automated Demand Response, and Load Reduction functionality
    [00065] In the United States and other developed nations - and even more so in the world's rapidly developing economies - a major driver of HVAC sales is the growing acceptance of air conditioning, for decades considered a near luxury in regular parts of the developed world, as a necessity of daily life. Of course, along with economic factors, warmer climate regions exhibit this trend more strongly.
    [00066] This change in market acceptance has had a strong effect on the electrical networks needed to supply all this new cooling load. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that, of course, air conditioning loads in a region can tend to peak all at the same time, typically in the afternoon, when air-conditioned buildings have energy absorbed from the sun and adjacent air during the afternoon. morning. On very hot days, particularly in regions without adequate power generation facilities or, alternatively, transmission capacity to bring in power from outside the region, this peak HVAC load can lead to grid emergencies, power outages and continuous blackouts that produce considerable personal and economic disruption.
    [00067] As an indication of the challenge, data from a New England electric grid operator, ISO New England, for the years 2004-2005 showed the highest peak in total demand on the New England grid occurred, as would be expected , in July. Interestingly, while average demand each year 2004-5 increased by 2%, peak demand - which must be accounted for by regional generation or imported power - increased by 11% on a year-to-year basis. And according to ISO New England, most of this new peak demand was for air conditioning. What's right in New England is also happening in California and the rest of the US, in Europe, India, China and elsewhere in the world, and this peak demand is often met by generating more expensive (and in) energy sources. developing world, often the dirtiest, such as oil and diesel). CEC data clearly show that carbon emissions at peak are higher than those off peak, based on tonnes/MWh.
    [00068] Utilities and grid operators are pursuing a number of strategies regarding peak A/C demand. In Demand Response, or voluntary abatement, programs, facility owners register their buildings to be claimed, under certain conditions, if the local power grid is being overloaded on a hot summer day. In an emergency declared by the regional electric grid operator, either manually or through specialized remote operating controls, a portion of registered facility lighting and A/C equipment can be turned off or reduced in load, reducing the electrical load on the grid. The facility owner is normally paid in some combination of reduced electrical fees, “reserve payments”, and additional payments if actually requested to reduce the load. In the US, an actual downsizing event can occur some way, or several times in a summer, depending on the local grid, your supply/demand balance, and the weather. The actual reduction period is normally only limited to 4-6 hours on the afternoon of the event day. However, currently DR as a mitigator is still hampered by aggregation obstacles, market ignorance, difficulties and cost in organizing technology, M&V requirements, and other factors. Reference to Automatic Demand Response as the ultimate goal, with the device conforming being able to link a lot of HVAC equipment to the “spin reserve” position. The ideal of “smart grid” is a basic fully automated ascending system where buildings carry out load shedding.
    [00069] As covered in the Budney '139 patent, device such as an RU or an algorithmic realization can allow for electrical line frequency based balancing in compressor operating cycles between separate HVACR units.
    [00070] As also covered in the Budney '139 patent, the RU can, on an active and/or passive basis, very flexibly EXTEND-OFF air conditioning and refrigeration compressor units, based on changes in monitored electrical line frequency . That is, the RU can also deliver highly granular Demand Response functionality to “regulate” A/C during peak periods, far superior to “plug puller” technologies in the current art. The signal for an active DR action could be transmitted in any number of modes, for example, from utility via a meter signal, one via a DR aggregator, via a signal sent via EMS, Internet link or network without wire or cell phone.
    [00071] Thus, RU equipped HVACR equipment could be part of a very flexible, low cost and easily organizeable cargo shedding program where, for example:
    [00072] 59.X Hz: “Commercial A” load group goes into EXTEND-OFF mode (“Commercial A” could be, say, large refrigeration loads and commercial A/C with some excess capacity, or in areas not critical)
    [00073] 59.Y Hz: “Commercial B” load group enters EXTEND-OFF mode
    [00074] The device, incorporated as an RU trigger or as part of a system, can also deliver enhanced “Level 2” and “Level 3” Demand Response functionality, plus Automatic Demand Response functionality. It does this through the ability to enter into a continuously variable EXTEND-OFF compressor operation under a variety of automatic and monitored conditions. The Demand Response functionality can function as follows:- a) Level 2: Upon receiving the signal, 1 compressor (from multiple compressor HVACR unit) EXTEND-OFF idle for up to 6 hours b) Level 3: (i) The RU unit can be installed as it normally is, with the EXTEND-RUN temperature sensor wired to the Return air duct air flow related for the purpose of extending the extended compressor runtime beyond the basic RUN settings if the return air temperatures rise above a predetermined set point. The device can be configured with a phase 1 CT monitoring current from HACR unit current draw extraction, and the EXTEND-RUN temperature probe monitoring return air duct temperature, (ii) During normal operation of DR Unit, the RU unit can deliver compressor efficiency improvements resulting in average demand reductions on the order of 10%-20%. (iii) By means of a series of signals from the DR coordination network: 1) DR Units can first enter into a brief “pre-cooling” sequence, to reduce DR Units controlled space temperatures by - 14.22 16.7°C (1-2°F), then - 2)can switch to a “DR” sequence, using the RU unit's EXTEND-OFF feature, to de-energize the DR Units compressor at intervals sufficient to achieve the required 30%-40% target average kW reduction, subject to - 3) occupant comfort protection provided by the EXTEND-OPERATE sensor in the RU unit, which can extend the runtime of the DR Unit compressor if temperatures reach the aforementioned range of 26.7-27.7°C (80-82°F) in the return air duct. 4) In addition to delivering the appropriate signals, the Unit in each HVACR unit can deliver line current, return air duct temperature and status data about whatever survey intervals are desired. (iv) Alternate Level 3 Sequence: A)RU may incorporate as options: an electrical meter and an energy monitor. B)RU may be responsive to the return air temperature, and may decide not to exert control above a certain value. C)The electric meter can record the energy usage of three phases in one unit, and only one phase in others. D)The energy monitor can accept a pulse input from the electric meter, and keep a perpetual record of the electric usage E)Power monitor data can be reported to the wireless gateway every 15 minutes F)RU can record the operating time for each cooling and heating stage in perpetual records G)RU can also create an ambient air diary and outdoor air temperature to maintain a perpetual daily degree-days (or degree hours) that can be compared to runtimes for the purposes of estimating energy savings. H)The RU peripheral can also act as a router, listening at all times. I) Demand Response can be performed by this system as follows: A1) The network coordinator can issue a “Pre-Cool” or “Demand Response” command, a2) RU can hear the command in near real time, and can respond by changing the setpoint as programmed, a3) When the Energy monitor checks, it can receive the command of “pre-cool” or “demand response”, and can produce: b1) If the command of “ Pre-Cool”, close relay as signal to Step Controller to “EXTEND-RUN”, b2) If “Demand Response” command, close relay as signal to Step Controller to “Extend-Off”, a4) No start and end of each of the "pre-cool" and "demand response" modes, RU and power monitor can send their log values so that the central computer can log the values during these critical periods separately from usage general record on extended periods of time.
    [00075] In Demand Reduction and Allocation: Using the energy management system described by US Patent No. 7,177,728 to Gardner, the RU could be used as the trigger.
    [00076] At the start and end of each of the "pre-cool" and "demand response" modes, RU and energy monitor can send their log values so that the central computer can log the values during these periods critical separately from the use of general record over extended periods of time.
    [00077] Mechanism of the device operating mechanism in fuel-triggered heating cycles
    [00078] For gas, oil and propane fired burner control circuits, an improvement to the mechanism mechanism described in the aforementioned Budney '139 and '260 patents, where the same RU described above can receive the feedback signals from a temperature or pressure sensor, or other source, to optimize burner runtime in cooling and refrigeration equipment.
    [00079] In heating orders, the device can essentially change a less efficient burner into a more modern and efficient “interval-fired” system. “Standard efficiency” burners can fire for extended periods to reach higher temperatures, for longer periods, than necessary to meet thermostat setpoints. Natural gas and oil ovens can heat the plenum to reach temperatures of 426.67°C+ (800°F+), draining much of the heat, while the thermostat is satisfied at much lower air temperatures of perhaps 21.11°C (70°F), or water temperatures of 71.11°C (160°F).
    [00080] By interval firing, as the more discreet portability of fuel in a combustion chamber per unit time, significant improvements in heat transfer efficiency can be made in 90% of heating equipment that is "standard efficiency" ( as with burner architectures which convert approximately 80% of the chemical energy of the fuel to useful heat). The device thus produces improvements in combustion chamber fuel utilization and heat transfer, within the limits of the existing control architecture and with preservation of all safety, starting and closing mechanisms. As with cooling orders, firing sequence scheduling can follow all appropriate boiler OEM guidelines for cycles per hour, minimum cycle times, and other factors.
    [00081] The effect of the device serves to reduce the heat spent on firing the burner, which otherwise moves up the stack, while also maintaining the stacking conditions so that condensation and other factors are avoided. Figures 4A and 4B show the effect of the device on a domestic hot water heater fired by light commercial gas based on laboratory testing. The data log shows the boiler tube exhaust temperature as a proxy for burner firing time and also combustion chamber temperature, during the day and time periods with one week separation (Thursdays, 12:00-2:30pm ). The graph in figure 4A shows boiler firing times 5 times in the “off-line” series, versus the exact same number (5), across shorter firing intervals in the in-line series shown in figure 4B, and with utilization more efficient fuel (heat transferred to hot water), shown by longer “off” times - all while still under thermostat control. Additional Features of the Present Invention
    [00082] The device can be “fail-safe” on a diagnosed failure of any: a) mass flow rate monitoring device; b) EPROM; c) DRC or DRT; or d) failure of another software or hardware component.
    [00083] “Failsafe”, if any of the following events occur, the associated HVACR equipment may return to normal operation unless otherwise programmed.
    [00084] The device can also assist associated HVACR equipment to "safely reset" upon loss of power or on selected types of power transients, in such a way as to provide grid "hardening" for such congestion events and related to demand. This can be a base unit feature in addition to all other “smart grid” features (Automatic behavior on power interruption).
    [00085] The device, when performing RU, may have local visible indications of “off”/“on” and working status.
    [00086] In RU realization, 1 RU may be able to handle up to 3 compressors, as for a step-up multiple compressor VCCR equipment.
    [00087] The device may be capable (via MODBUS, BACnet and possibly other EMS/BMS protocols) to be remotely restartable and operable. Through a coupleable current and voltage transducers, or other means of monitoring line power draws, there is the possibility to monitor the energy consumption of the associated HVACR unit. Easy inputs and outputs.
    [00088] In carrying out RU, the unit can easily be set manually.
    [00089] The device reduces reliance on thermal sensors as a source of feedback on energy efficiency. This is a new and positive element, so thermal sensors are known to become less sensitive and need to be recalibrated over time.
    [00090] The present invention includes the following aspects/accomplishments/features in any order and/or in any combination: 1. The present invention relates to an electronic controller mechanism mechanism to automatically control and manage load demand and operation of energized energy consuming equipment by changing the current of electrical energy, which contains: a) a controller switch connected in series with a control signal line that connects with a load unit control switch that controls the flow of operative power for a load unit, and the controller switch capable of opening and closing the control signal line; b) a digital recycling counter comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal in the control signal line, and capable of defining a running time elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the unit of cargo; c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of setting a runtime elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit; d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for improved optimization of energy use and/or load unit demand, comprising at least one of the default initial values and a look-up table, which is capable of ensure that a load unit operates in no more than a memorized number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load; e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to monitor at least one physical value related to a load unit load cycle and/or a space temperature; f) a selection control signal device capable of selecting a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and producing a selected signal as a signal control switch selected to the controller switch, where feedback signals from the load unit are processable by the mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize the operation of the load unit. load (runtime). 2) The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of any preceding or following realization/feature/aspect, wherein the load unit comprises a vapor compression refrigeration/cooling unit (VCCR) compressor running under the selected control signal, where the selected control signal is derived from the shorter of: 1) an elapsed time interval as defined by the digital recycle counter or via the recycle timer that starts a count when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle starts; 3) a monitored decrease in the refrigerant mass flow rate or a proxy variable for the refrigerant mass flow rate, through an evaporator coil, from an initial level to a preset, memorized or standard fraction of such level, or to a critical relative level obtained from the lookup table; 4) a change in a physical monitored value other than 2) in the VCCR unit cycle; or 5) receiving an OEM thermostat satisfied signal from an associated thermostatic monitoring device. 3.The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which the load unit runtimes are still selected against a mechanism of the control mechanism which ensures that the VCCR compressor operates in no more than the following number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: i) a preset, memorized or default number, or ii) a number obtained from the look-up table. 4. The mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, where the VCCR compressor is operated next under the load unit run times, then the load unit is disabled for an interval in that the duration of the idle interval is determined under a selected control signal, where the idle interval signal is derived from the longer of the following: a) an increase in the evaporator coil release temperature from an initial level to a pre-fixed, memorized or fractionally higher standard level, or to a critical relative level obtained from a look-up table; b) an elapsed interval of pre-defined, pre-derived or memorized time, as defined by the digital recycling counter or through the recycling timer that starts its counting when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle stops; c) a change in another physical value monitored in the VCCR unit cycle; or d)receiving an OEM thermostat call signal from the associated thermostatic monitoring device. 5. The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which the load unit idle times are further selected against a control mechanism mechanism which ensures that the VCCR compressor will no longer operate than the following quantity of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: i) a pre-fixed, memorized or standard number, or ii) a number obtained from the look-up table. 6. The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals are used to change preset, memorized, or default settings to deliver the Demand Response functionality and smart grid. 7. The mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/resource/aspect, the mechanism being capable of being applied as a trigger to increase the reliability utility of a defined allocation of solar PV electrical energy in a associated facility. 8.The electronic controller mechanism mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which an optimization action provided using the mechanism in a VCCR compressor operation and an evaporator heat transfer also serves to reduce or eliminate freezing in the coil, by allowing the coil to heat up slightly between pumping the compressor driven cooler. 9.The mechanism of the electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which optimized protection from fluidization (liquid cooler passage into the compressor) and also from coil freezing is achieved using the mechanism which allows the chiller load to be increased by a VCCR, thus providing more thermal mass in the system and thus more cooling capacity for the same electrical rating. 10.The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, which mechanism is capable of being used for evaluating an effect of idling condenser fans and other auxiliary equipment in VCCR operation, and then to turn them off, as well as at intervals during VCCR operation to allow for additional energy savings, and also improve heat transfer by allowing higher cooler pressures to be maintained. 11.The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which via a different mechanism and thermodynamic action, using the mechanism for fuel-triggered heating, in which feedback signals from a monitoring device Temperature or supplemental pressure settings are usable to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize burner operation (run time) in fuel-fired heating equipment and also to thus improve heat transfer in the fuel combustion space. burner to the heating medium (air or water). 12.The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, in which a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals may be applied to change preset, memorized, or default settings to deliver functionality Demand Response and other functionality. 13.The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, wherein the mechanism is capable of providing short-cycle protection to associated compressor or burner equipment. 14.The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, where the memorization features of the mechanism's control architecture facilitate installation of the mechanism. 15. The electronic controller mechanism of any preceding or following achievement/feature/aspect, wherein the mechanism reduces reliance on thermal sensors and moisture sensors as a source of feedback in an HYAC&R system as compared to the HVAC&R system operating without the mechanism. 16. The present invention relates to a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC&R) system comprising a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration unit and the electronic controller mechanism of claim 1 which intercepts a control signal of HVAC&R system thermostat to process the intercepted thermostat command to generate a control signal set as an output signal to a load unit of the HVAC&R system. 17. The present invention relates to a system for automatic control of an HVAC&R system, comprising: a thermostat (or other source of control signal); an electronic controller mechanism, and at least one of the load units operatively connected to a power supply line, wherein the electronic controller mechanism is capable of being interposed in a control signal line between a control signal source. and a load of equipment to be controlled, the electronic controller mechanism comprising: a) a controller switch in series with a control signal line that connects to a load unit control switch that controls the flow of operative power to a load unit, and the controller switch capable of opening and closing the control signal line; b) a digital recycling counter comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal in the control signal line, and capable of defining a running time elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the unit of cargo; c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of setting a runtime elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit; d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for improved optimization of energy use and/or load unit demand, comprising at least one of the default initial values and a look-up table, which is capable of ensure that a load unit operates in no more than a memorized number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load; e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to monitor at least one physical value related to a load unit load cycle and/or a space temperature; f) a selection control signal device capable of selecting a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and producing a selected signal as a control signal selected to the controller switch, where feedback signals from the load unit are processable by the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize the operation of the load unit. load (runtime). 18.The system of any preceding or following realization/feature/aspect, wherein the HVAC&R system comprises a gas/compressed air compression system (eg, a VCCR system). 19. The present invention relates to a method for automatically controlling and managing the energy use and/or load demand and operation of at least one electrically powered load unit in an HVAC&R system, comprising the steps of: electrically connecting an electronic controller mechanism in a control signal line between a thermostat (or other control signal source) and a load of equipment to be controlled, wherein the electronic controller mechanism comprising a) a controller switch in series with a control signal line connecting with a load unit control switch which controls the flow of operative power to a load unit, and the control switch capable of opening and closing the control signal line, b) a digital counter a recycler comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal on the control signal line, and capable of defining a perc interval. runtime interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit, c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of defining a runtime elapsed interval and a time elapsed interval idle for the load unit, d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for improved optimization of energy use and/or load unit demand, comprising at least one of the default initial values and a table query, which is capable of ensuring that a load unit operates in no more than a memorized amount of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load, e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to monitor at least one physical value related to a load unit load cycle and/or temperature of a space, f) a selection control signal device capable of select a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and produce a signal selected as a selected control signal to the controller switch, in which the feedback signals from the load unit are processable by the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize load unit operation (runtime); intercept at least one thermostat command from the thermostat for cooling, cooling or heating in the electronic controller mechanism; processing the intercepted thermostat command in the electronic controller mechanism to generate a control signal set as an output signal; and outputting the output signal generated by the electronic controller mechanism to the controller switch to control the operation of the load unit. 20.The method of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the HVAC&R system comprises a gas/compressed air compression system (e.g., a VCCR system).
    [00091] The present invention may include any combination of these various features or embodiments above and/or below as set forth in the sentences and/or paragraphs. Any combination of the features disclosed herein is considered part of the present invention and no limitation is intended with respect to combinable resources.
    [00092] The entire contents of all references mentioned in this disclosure are hereby incorporated in their entireties by reference. In addition, when a quantity, concentration or other value or parameter is provided as a range, preferred range or a list of upper preferred values and lower preferred values, this is to be understood as specifically revealing all variations formed from any pair of any upper limit of variation or preferred value and any lower limit of variation or preferred value, regardless of whether variations are separately disclosed. When a range of numerical values is mentioned herein, unless otherwise stated, the range is intended to include its endpoints, and all whole numbers and fractions within the range. The scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the values mentioned when defining a variation.
    [00093] Other embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the present specification and practice of the present invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the present descriptive report and examples be regarded as exemplary only with an authentic scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims and their equivalents.
    权利要求:
    Claims (17)
    [0001]
    1. Electronic controller mechanism, to automatically control and manage the load demand and operation of energized energy consuming equipment by switching the electrical energy current, characterized in that it comprises: a) a controller switch connected in series with a line a control signal that connects to a load unit control switch that controls the flow of operative power to a load unit, and the control switch capable of opening and closing the control signal line; b) a digital recycling counter comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal in the control signal line, and capable of defining a running time elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the unit load, and produce a signal that is an input signal to a select control signal device; c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of setting a runtime elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit, and producing a signal that is an input signal for the selection control signal device; d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for improved optimization of energy use and/or demand of the load unit, comprising at least one of historical algorithmic inputs related to improving the energy of the equipment for the unit of load, default initial values and values obtained from a look-up table, which is capable of guaranteeing that a load unit operates in no more than a memorized number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load, and producing a signal which is an input signal to the select control signal device; e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to detect at least one physical value related to a load unit cycle of the load unit and/or temperature of a space, and produce a signal that is a input signal to the selection control signal device; f) the selection control signal device capable of selecting a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and producing a selected signal as a select control signal to the controller tap changer, the feedback signals from the load unit being processable by the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize timing. load unit operation; and where at least one of: (i) an optimization action provided using the mechanism in a compressor operation (VCCR) cooling/cooling of vapor compression and evaporator heat transfer also serves to reduce or eliminate freezing in the coil, by allowing the coil to heat slightly between the pumping of the compressor driven refrigerator, or (ii) an optimized protection from fluidization comprising the passage of the liquid cooler in the compressor and also from freezing in the coil is obtained using the mechanism of electronic controller that allows the chiller load to be increased in a VCCR, thus providing more thermal mass in the system and more cooling capacity for the same electrical rating.
    [0002]
    2. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the load unit comprises a compressor of the vapor compression cooling/refrigeration unit (VCCR) operated under the selected control signal, the signal Selected control is derived from the shorter of: 1) an elapsed time interval as defined by the digital recycle counter or via the recycle timer that starts a count when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle starts; 3) a monitored decrease in the refrigerant mass flow rate using monitoring by a sensor or a proxy variable for the refrigerant mass flow rate, through an evaporator coil, from an initial level to a fraction preset, memorized or default of such level, or to a critical relative level obtained from the lookup table; 4) a change in a physical monitored value different than 2) in the VCCR unit cycle using monitoring by a different sensor from the sensor in 2); or 5) receiving an OEM thermostat satisfied signal from an associated thermostatic monitoring device.
    [0003]
    3. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that the load unit runtimes are further selected against a control mechanism which ensures that the VCCR compressor operates in no more than a following number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: i) a pre-fixed, memorized or standard number, or ii) a number obtained from the look-up table.
    [0004]
    4. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that after the VCCR compressor is operated under the load unit runtimes, then the load unit is deactivated for an interval with the duration of the idle interval is determined under a selected control signal, the idle interval signal being derived from the longer of the following: a) an increase in the evaporator coil release temperature from an initial level to a pre- - fixed, memorized or higher standard in a fractional way, or to a relative critical level obtained from a look-up table; b) an elapsed interval of pre-defined, pre-derived or memorized time, as defined either by the digital recycling counter or through the recycling timer which starts its counting when the compressor in the vapor compression cycle stops; c) a change in another physical value monitored in the VCCR unit cycle; or d)receiving an OEM thermostat call signal from the associated thermostatic monitoring device.
    [0005]
    5. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that the load unit idle times are further selected against a control mechanism which ensures that the VCCR compressor operates in no more than a following number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load: i) a preset, memorized or standard quantity, or ii) a quantity obtained from the look-up table.
    [0006]
    6. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals are used to change the preset, memorized or default settings to deliver the Response Response functionality. Demand and smart grid.
    [0007]
    7. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic controller mechanism is capable of being applied as a driver to increase the reliability of a defined allocation of solar PV electrical energy in an associated installation.
    [0008]
    8. Electronic controller mechanism, according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanism is capable of being used for evaluating an effect of idling condenser fans and other auxiliary equipment in VCCR operation, and then for turn them off, as well as at intervals during VCCR operation to allow for additional energy savings, and also improve heat transfer by allowing higher cooler pressures to be maintained.
    [0009]
    9. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic controller mechanism is used to control fuel triggered heating, with feedback signals from a temperature monitoring device or supplemental pressure are usable to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize burner operation in fuel fired heating equipment and also so to improve heat transfer in the burner combustion space to a heating medium comprising air or water.
    [0010]
    10. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that a variety of complementary commanded signals or other external system signals can be applied to change the preset, memorized or default settings to deliver the Demand Response and other functionality.
    [0011]
    11. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic controller mechanism is capable of providing short-cycling protection to the associated compressor or burner equipment.
    [0012]
    12. Electronic controller mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic controller mechanism reduces reliance on thermal sensors and humidity sensors as a source of feedback in a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and /or refrigeration (HVAC&R) as compared to the HVAC&R system operating without the electronic controller mechanism.
    [0013]
    13. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration system, comprising a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration unit and the electronic controller mechanism, as defined in claim 1, characterized in that it intercepts a thermostat control signal from the HVAC&R system to process the intercepted thermostat command to generate a control signal set as an output signal to a load unit of the HVAC&R system.
    [0014]
    14.System for the automatic control of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration system, characterized by the fact that it comprises: -a thermostat; - an electronic controller mechanism as defined in claim 1, and - at least one of the load units operatively connected to a power supply line, the electronic controller mechanism being capable of being interposed in a power signal line. control between a control signal source and a load of the at least one control unit to be controlled. a) a control switch in series with a control signal line that connects with a load unit control switch that controls the flow of operative power to a load unit, and the control switch capable of opening and closing the line control signal; b) a digital recycling counter comprising a counter for generating a count of oscillations of an oscillating control signal in the control signal line, and capable of defining a running time elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the unit of cargo; c) a digital timer to provide a real-time input index, and capable of setting a runtime elapsed interval and an idle time elapsed interval for the load unit; d) a memorization module for analyzing input information and deriving algorithms for optimizing the energy use and/or demand of the load unit, in which at least one of the default initial values and a lookup table, which is capable of ensure that a load unit operates in no more than a memorized number of cycles per hour of operation under thermostatic load; e) an external conditioning device capable of communicating with at least one sensor to monitor at least one physical value related to a load unit load cycle and/or a space temperature; f) a selection control signal device capable of selecting a higher or lower value from the input signals obtained from two or more of b), c), d) and e) and producing a selected signal as a control signal selected to the controller switch, the feedback signals from the load unit being processable by the electronic controller mechanism to be used to supplement preset, memorized or default settings to optimize the operation of the load unit. charge.
    [0015]
    15. System according to claim 14, characterized in that the HVAC&R system comprises a gas/compressed air compression system.
    [0016]
    16. Method, to automatically control and manage the energy use or load demand and operation of at least one load unit powered by electricity in a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration system, characterized in that it comprises the steps of : - electrically connect the electronic controller mechanism, as defined in claim 1, to a control signal line between a thermostat and a load of equipment to be controlled, - intercept at least one thermostat command from the thermostat for cooling, cooling or heating in the electronic controller mechanism; - process the intercepted thermostat command in the electronic controller mechanism to generate a control signal set as an output signal; and - producing the output signal generated by the electronic controller mechanism to the controller switch to control the operation of the load unit.
    [0017]
    17. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that the HVAC&R system comprises a gas compression system.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    EP2973926A4|2016-12-21|
    AU2014227781B2|2018-03-01|
    EP2973926A1|2016-01-20|
    WO2014144175A1|2014-09-18|
    CN105247753B|2019-10-15|
    JP6427553B2|2018-11-21|
    BR112015023587A2|2017-07-18|
    AU2014227781A1|2015-11-05|
    KR20160042809A|2016-04-20|
    MX2015012283A|2016-06-16|
    CN105247753A|2016-01-13|
    JP2016519747A|2016-07-07|
    CA2910244A1|2014-09-18|
    US20160025364A1|2016-01-28|
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    法律状态:
    2018-11-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2020-02-11| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2021-08-03| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-09-08| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 14/03/2014, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201361799501P| true| 2013-03-15|2013-03-15|
    US61/799,501|2013-03-15|
    PCT/US2014/028473|WO2014144175A1|2013-03-15|2014-03-14|System and apparatus for integrated hvacr and other energy efficiency and demand response|
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