Air Conditioning Apparatus For A Vehicle

US005669226A
United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 5,669,226

Kurahashi et al. 45 Date of Patent: Sep. 23, 1997
54 AIR CONDITIONING APPARATUS FOR A Primary Examiner-Harry B. Tanner
WEHICLE Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Pollock, Vande Sande & Priddy
75 Inventors: Yasufumi Kurahashi, Ootsu; Minoru 57 ABSTRACT
Fukumoto, Nara, both of Japan
An air conditioning apparatus for an electric vehicle
73) Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., includes an electrically-driven compressor. A desired tem
Ltd., Osaka, Japan perature is set which relates to one of a temperature of air
discharged into a vehicle interior and a temperature within
21 Appl. No.: 646,219 the vehicle interior. Detection is given of a temperature
22 Filled: May 6, 1996 related to a heat exchanger. An inverter connected to the
compressor is operative for driving the compressor at a
30 Foreign Application Priority Data variable speed corresponding to a desired rotational speed.
May 17, 1995 JP Japan .................................... 7-118193 A target temperature related to the heat exchanger is calcu
lated in response to the desired temperature. Calculation is
(51 int. Cl. ... B60 1/22 given of a difference between the detected temperature and
52 U.S. Cl. ........................... 62/227; 62/228.4; 62/229; the target temperature. Also, calculation is given of a varia
62/228.3: 236/78 D tion in the detected temperature for every given period. A
58) Field of Search ................................ 62/228.1, 228.3, corrective rotational speed is calculated from the tempera
62/228.4, 228.5, 227, 229, 157, 208,209; ture difference and the temperature variation for every given
236/78 D period. Calculation is given of a sum of a current desired
rotational speed of the compressor and the corrective rota
56 References Cited tional speed for every given period. The calculated sum is set
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS as a new desired rotational speed of the compressor for every
given period. The inverter is informed of the new desired
4,959,969 10/1990 Okamoto et al. ................. 236/78 DX rotational speed of the compressor.
5,295,363 3/1994 Oomura et al. .. ... 62/227
5,372,015 12/1994 Suzuki et al. .... ... 62/228.4
5,410,890 5/1995 Arima .................................... 62/228.4 15 Claims, 21 Drawing Sheets
SIGNAL FRON
TEMP SENSOR 129
17
TENP TENP
VARATION DFFERENCE
41
CORRECTVE ARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
140
SIGNA TO SGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR MX OUTPUT TEMP SET
123 DEWECE 114
OPE-MODE
DECSION
26
SiGNAL TO SPEED
(AY WAVE OUTPUT
OUTPUT
SGNAL TO CONTROL
SGNAL TO
THROTTLE INVERTER 21
WALWE 104
U.S. Patent Sep. 23, 1997 Sheet 1 of 21 5,669,226
A/G 1
--N
8 A/OAR AART
HEAT DEF VENT WEHICLE
l l O NTERIOR
iss
s ---
- YV b
A.
A.
f
/
1
XM//\
(ANLA W
Y
a. 38
WEHICLE
i
EXTERIOR
t
2s
th CONTROL
i. LER
-----------------surer 5
T INVERTER
A/G 2
A/OR AAR7
DEHUMIDIFYNG
COONG AND HEATING HEATNG
MODE MODE MODE
ROTATIONAL
SPEED OF
COMPRESSOR
MX DAMPER
POST ON
FULL
COD
T T2 T3 T4 .
SETING TEMPERATURE
08
A/G 3
-N-N
HEAPEVENT WEHICLE
10 is INTERIR
WEHICLE
EXTERIOR
karahur-uphowngramso
20 113 127 114
CONTROL
ER
i---------------- of in
Lu -
asava 12 115
INVERTER
A/G 4
SIGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
TEMP TEMP
VARATION DIFFERENCE
14
CORRECTVE TARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
140
SGNAL TO SGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR MIX OUTPUT TEMP SET
23 DEVICE 14
24
ope-woDE
DECSON
130 126
SGNAL TO SPEED
4-WAY WALWE
107 E
OUTPUT
SiGNAL FO
ENFETROL
THROTTLE SGNAL TO
WALWE 104 INVERTER 21
A/G 5
DEHUMDIFYNG
COOLNG AND HEATNG HEANG
MODE MODE MODE
60
HEAT-EXCHANGER
TARGE
TEMPERATURE
Tmit RG (c)
5 ---------timm1-------------
FULL.
HOT
X DAMPER
POSITION
FL
COLD
T11 T12 T13 T14

SETTING TEMPERATURE set
A/G 6
START
NPUT SETTING TEMP Tset
S2
INPUT HEAT-EXCHANGER
TEMP Tm (n)
S3
Tmt RG
S4
S5
S6
set S N RANGE 2 NO
S8
Af=f (Tmsa, Tm HE) Af=f 2 (Tinsa. The)
S9
f (n) e-f (n - 1) -- Af
- SO
OUTPUT if TO INVERTER
S11
Tm (n-1) e-T (n)
F (n-1) t-f(n)
A/G 7
Af(Hz) = f(Tnsa. The)
Tmsa (deg) - MD SMALL
Sts.," File:
Tnhe (deg) - 5 + .. O - 3.0
s
- GREAT
(N - 3. 5)
- MD
- GREAT
( SA: s
(-10)
- GREAT
(-3. 0-N1 - 1.5) (-10)
SMALL - GREAT
(-1. ON + 1.0) (-10)
- MD - SMALL
- GREAT
(-10)
-
- SMALL
(-3)
D
)
- GREAT
-
- O
3
- SMALL
L
- SMALL
(-3)
", 3
- MD
t
',H-3. 5
- GREAT
(+10)
- GREAT
L)
(+1.5~ + 3.0) (-3) (+3) (+6) (+10)

- GREAT - SMALL - GREAT - GREAT + GREAT
(+3.5~) (+3) (+10) (+10) (+10)
A/G 3
Af (Hz) = f2 (Tmsa. Tnh E)
is-:)(
(...otsau o -su
08
A/G 9
-N-N
HEAT 122 VEHICLE
B O O6 INTERIOR
9 coco
N Nv.
16
-
VEHICLE
EXTERIOR B
t
A/G 1 O
SIGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
TEMP TEMP
WARIAION DFFERENCE
4
CORRECTIVE TARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
140
SIGNAL TO SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR MX OUTPUT TEMP SET
123 DEVICE 114
24 131
OPE-MODE SGNAL FROM
DECISION AIR-FLOW-RATE
SET DEVICE 15
130 126
SGNAL TO
4-WAY WALWE SPEED
107 OUTPUT
SGNAL TO
THROTTLE
ENE L SGNAL TO
WALWE 104 NVERTER 2
UL3 --------------------Q
UPPER
MIT OF
ROTATIONAL
SPEED U2 --
SETTING AR-FLOW-RATE
108
A/G 72
-N-N
HEAPEVENT WEHICLE
10 is INTERR
WEHICLE
EXTERFOR
annursueruru-ouess
120B 13 127 114

A/G 13
SIGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
117
TEMP EMP
VARATION DIFFERENCE
14
CORRECTIVE TARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
40
SIGNAL TO SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR-1H MX OUTPUT TEMP SET
123 DEVICE 114
124 132
OPE-MODE SPEED SIGNAL FROM
INTAKE AIR
130 126
SGNAL TO
4-WAY WALWE SPEED
O OUTPUT
SGNAL TO
ENE
NTRO
THROTTLE SIGNAL TO
WALWE 104 NVERTER 121
108
A/G, 14
--N
122 WEHICLE
B 10 los INTERIOR
--St
WEHICLE
EXTERIOR
awatamwo
INVERTER
A/G 15
SIGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 29
TEMP TEMP
VARATION DFFERENCE
14
CORRECTIVE TARGET
SPEED TENP
DES RED
SPEED
AO
SGNAL TO SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR MX OUTPUT TEP SET
123 DEWCE 14
OPE-NODE 132A
DECSON SIGNAL FROM
NTAKE AIR
SIGNAL TO SELECFOR 127
4-WAY WALVE 26
Ol
OUTPUT SPEED
SGNAL TO CONTROL OUTPUT
THROTTE
WALWE 104. SGNA T0
NVERTER 12
08
AF/G 16
HEATPEFVEN 110
WEHICLE
NEROR
WEHICLE
EXTERIOR
20D 13 127 114

CONTROL
AF/G 77
SGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
TEMP TEMP
VARATION DFFERENCE
14
CORRECTIVE TARGE
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
140
SGNAL TO SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR (HMX OUTPUT TEMP SE
23 DEW CE 114
24 33
DECSION MT TEP SENSOR
130 126
SGNAL TO
4-WAY WALWE SPEED
107 OUTPUT
SIGNAL TO
ENFE
CONTROL
THROTTLE SIGNAL TO
WALWE 04 NVERTER 12
A/G 73 UL11
A? of
ROTATIONAL L12
SPEED
T21 22
DETECTED TEMPERATURE
A/G 27 UL21
LA ofO
ROTATONA UL22
SPEED
T3, T32
DETECTED TEMPERATURE
A/G 24 UL31
UPPER
LT OF UL32
ROTATONA
SPEED
P P2
DETECTED PRESSURE
108
A/G 79
-N-N
HEATPEVENT WEHICLE
COR
l 110 INTERIR
WEHICLE
EXTERIOR
now-ene-upernoon
runs 4
------
off to in a
----- -Ei N
15
NVERTER
k-runa-anamaaaar
A/G 2O
SGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
TEMP TEMP
WARATION DFFERENCE
14
CORRECTWE TARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
40
SGNA T0 SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR-e-MX OUTPUT TEMP SET
23 DEVICE 14
124 34
DECSION LIMT . TEP SENSOR
30 126
SIGNAL TO
SPEED
O OUTPUT
OUTPUT
SIGNAL TO CONTROL
THROTTLE SIGNAL TO
WALWE 04 NVERTER 121
A/G 22
108
--
HEAT DEF VENT 122 WEHICLE
O is INTERIR
WEHICLE
thanabasase-marrass EXTERIOR
CONTROL
LER
-a-w a
w-r------
s
121
A/G 23
SIGNAL FROM
TEMP SENSOR 129
17
TEMP TENP
VARATION DFFERENCE
14
CORRECTIVE TARGET
SPEED TEMP
DES RED
SPEED
1 40
SIGNA T0 SIGNAL FROM
MX ACTUATOR HMX OUTPUT TEMP SET
123 DEVICE 14
124 135
OPE-MODE SPEED S. FROM
DECSON LMT SENSOR 139
130 126
SGNAL TO SPEED
107 OUTPUT
OUTPUT
CONTROL
SGNAL TO
THROTTLE SGNAL TO
WALWE 104 INVERTER 12
5,669,226
1. 2
AR COND TONING APPARATUS FOR A means for limiting an upper side of the new desired rota
VEHICLE tional speed of the compressor which is set by the seventh
means in response to the desired flow rate set by the ninth
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION CaS
Athird aspect of this invention is based on the first aspect
1. Field of the Invention thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus further
This invention relates to an air conditioning apparatus for comprising ninth means for selectively introducing air from
a vehicle such as an electric vehicle. the vehicle interior or air from a vehicle exterior, and tenth
2. Description of the Prior Art means for limiting an upper side of the new desired rota
10 tional speed of the compressor which is set by the seventh
There are various types of air conditioners for vehicles. means in response to whether the ninth means introduces air
Each of these air conditioners generally serves to control a from the vehicle interior or air from the vehicle exterior.
temperature within the interior (the passenger's A fourth aspect of this invention is based on the third
compartment) of the vehicle at a desired temperature. The aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus
desired temperature is also referred to as a setting tempera further comprising eleventh means for deciding whether
15
ture. cooling operation or heating operation is currently executed,
In general, air conditioners for electric vehicles include and twelfth means responsive to a result of said deciding by
electrically-driven compressors or motor-driven compres the eleventh means for limiting the upper side of the new
sors. In a prior-art air conditioner for an electric vehicle, the desired rotational speed of the compressor which is set by
rotational speed of an electrically-driven compressor the seventh means in response to whether the cooling
remains fixed at a setting speed corresponding to a desired operation or the heating operation is currently executed.
temperature (a setting temperature) within the interior or the Afifth aspect of this invention is based on the first aspect
passenger's compartment of the vehicle. The setting speed is thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus further
made independent of a load on the air conditioner. The load comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature of a
on the air conditioner is determined by various factors motor winding of the compressor, and tenth means for
including the intensity of sunshine applied to the vehicle. limiting an upper side of the new desired rotational speed of
Accordingly, the temperature of air discharged from the the compressor which is set by the seventh means in
outlet of the air conditioner tends to vary in accordance with response to the temperature detected by the ninth means.
the intensity of sunshine applied to the vehicle. The depen A sixth aspect of this invention is based on the first aspect
dence of the discharged-air temperature upon the sunshine 30 thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus further
intensity disturbs the control of the vehicle-interior tempera comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature of a
ture at the desired temperature. drive portion of the inverter, and tenth means for limiting an
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION upper side of the new desired rotational speed of the
compressor which is set by the seventh means in response to
It is an object of this invention to provide an improved air 35 the temperature detected by the ninth means.
conditioning apparatus for a vehicle. A seventh aspect of this invention is based on the first
A first aspect of this invention provides an air condition aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus
ing apparatus for an electric vehicle which comprises an further comprising ninth means for detecting a pressure at an
electrically-driven compressor; first means for setting a outlet of the compressor, and tenth means for limiting an
desired temperature related to one of a temperature of air 40 upper side of the new desired rotational speed of the
discharged into a vehicle interior and a temperature within compressor which is set by the seventh means in response to
the vehicle interior; a heat exchanger; second means for the pressure detected by the ninth means.
detecting a temperature related to the heat exchanger; an An eighth aspect of this invention provides an air condi
inverter connected to the compressor for driving the com tioning apparatus comprising a compressor; a heat
pressor at a variable speed corresponding to a desired 45 exchanger; first means including refrigerant for connecting
rotational speed; third means for calculating a target tem the compressor and the heat exchanger to allow the refrig
perature related to the heat exchanger in response to the erant to flow through the compressor and the heat
desired temperature set by the first means; fourth means for exchanger; second means for providing a target temperature
calculating a difference between the temperature detected by of air downstream of the heat exchanger; third means for
the second means and the target temperature calculated by 50 detecting an actual temperature of air downstream of the
the third means; fifth means for calculating a variation in the heat exchanger; fourth means for calculating a difference
temperature detected by the second means for every given between the target temperature provided by the second
period; sixth means for calculating a corrective rotational means and the actual temperature detected by the third
speed from the temperature difference calculated by the means; fifth means for detecting a variation in the actual
fourth means and the temperature variation calculated by the 55 temperature detected by the third means; and sixth means for
fifth means for every given period; seventh means for controlling a rotational speed of the compressor in response
calculating a sum of a current desired rotational speed of the to the temperature difference calculated by the fourth means
compressor and the corrective rotational speed calculated by and the temperature variation detected by the fifth means.
the sixth means for every given period, and for setting the A ninth aspect of this invention is based on the eighth
calculated sum as a new desired rotational speed of the aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus
compressor for every given period; and eighth means for wherein the sixth means comprises seventh means for cal
informing the inverter of the new desired rotational speed of culating a desired rotational speed of the compressor from
the compressor which is set by the seventh means. the temperature difference calculated by the fourth means
A second aspect of this invention is based on the first and the temperature variation detected by the fifth means,
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus 65 and eighth means for controlling an actual rotational speed
further comprising ninth means for setting a desired flow of the compressor in accordance with the desired rotational
rate of air discharged into the vehicle interior, and tenth speed calculated by the seventh means.
5,669,226
3 4
A tenth aspect of this invention is based on the ninth FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a segment of a program for
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus controlling operation of the controller in FIG. 3.
further comprising ninth means for setting a desired flow FIG. 7 is a diagram of a first example of a relation among
rate of discharged air, and tenth means for limiting an upper a corrective rotational speed f1 of a motor of an electrically
side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the seventh driven compressor, a temperature difference TmSA, and a
means in response to the desired flow rate set by the ninth temperature variation TmHE in the apparatus of FIG. 3.
CaS.
An eleventh aspect of this invention is based on the ninth FIG. 8 is a diagram of a second example of the relation
among the corrective rotational speed f1 of the motor of the
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus electrically-driven compressor, the temperature difference
further comprising ninth means for selectively introducing 10
air from an air-conditioned space or air from an exterior of TmSA, and the temperature variation TmHE in the appara
tus of FIG. 3.
the air-conditioned space, and tenth means for limiting an FIG. 9 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for an
upper side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the electric vehicle according to a second embodiment of this
seventh means in response to whether the ninth means invention.
introduces air from the air-conditioned space or air from the 15
exterior of the air-conditioned space. FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
Atwelfth aspect of this invention is based on the eleventh FIG. 9.
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus FIG. 11 is a diagram of a relation between a desired
further comprising eleventh means for deciding whether 20 rotational speed of a motor of an electrically-driven com
cooling operation or heating operation is currently executed, pressor and a desired airflow rate given by an air-flow-rate
and twelfth means responsive to a result of said deciding by setting device in the apparatus of FIG. 9.
the eleventh means for limiting the upper side of the desired FIG. 12 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for
rotational speed calculated by the seventh means in response an electric vehicle according to a third embodiment of this
to whether the cooling operation or the heating operation is 25 invention.
currently executed. FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
A thirteenth aspect of this invention is based on the ninth F.G. 12.
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus FIG. 14 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for
further comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature an electric vehicle according to a fourth embodiment of this
of a motor winding of the compressor, and tenth means for invention.
limiting an upper side of the desired rotational speed cal 30 FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
culated by the seventh means in response to the temperature FIG. 14.
detected by the ninth means. FIG. 16 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for
Afourteenth aspect of this invention is based on the ninth an electric vehicle according to a fifth embodiment of this
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus 35 invention.
further comprising an inverter provided in the eighth means FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
for driving the compressor at a rotational speed correspond FIG. 16.
ing to the desired rotational speed thereof, ninth means for FIG. 18 is a diagram of a relation between an upper limit
detecting a temperature of a drive portion of the inverter, and of the rotational
tenth means for limiting an upper side of the desired 40 compressor and aspeed of a motor of an electrically-driven
detected temperature of a motor winding
rotational speed in response to the temperature detected by of the electrically-driven compressor in the apparatus of
the ninth means. F.G. 16.
A fifteenth aspect of this invention is based on the ninth
aspect thereof, and provides an air conditioning apparatus an FIG. 19 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for
further comprising ninth means for detecting a pressure at an 45 invention, vehicle according to a sixth embodiment of this
electric
outlet of the compressor, and tenth means for limiting an FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
upper side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the F.G. 19.
seventh means in response to the pressure detected by the
ninth means. FIG. 21 is a diagram of a relation between an upper limit
of the rotational speed of a motor of an electrically-driven
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS compressor and a detected temperature of a drive portion of
an inverter in the apparatus of FIG. 19.
FIG. 1 is a diagram of a prior-art air conditioner for an FIG.22 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for
electric vehicle.
an electric vehicle according to a seventh embodiment of
FIG. 2 is a diagram of a relation among a setting this invention.
temperature, the position of a mix damper, and the rotational 55 FIG. 23 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
speed of an electrically-driven compressor in the prior-art air FIG. 22.
conditioner of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a diagram of an air conditioning apparatus for an of FIG. 24 is a diagram of a relation between an upper limit
electric vehicle according to a first embodiment of this compressor and speed
the rotational
a
of a motor of an electrically-driven
detected pressure at the outlet of the
invention.
electrically-driven compressor in the apparatus of FIG. 22.
FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of operation of a controller in
FIG. 3. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED
FIG. 5 is a diagram of a relation among a setting EMBODIMENTS
temperature, the position of a mix damper, and a target 65 A prior-art air conditioner for an electric vehicle will be
temperature of air downstream of a heat exchanger in the described hereinafter for a better understanding of this
apparatus of FIG. 3. invention.
5,669,226
S 6
FIG. 1 shows a prior-art air conditioner for an electric output signal of the air-flow-rate setting device 15 so that the
vehicle which is a heat pump apparatus able to execute actual flow rate of air discharged into the vehicle interior
cooling, heating, and dehumidifying processes. With refer will be substantially equal to the desired airflow rate set by
ence to FIG. 1, the prior-art air conditioner includes an the air-flow-rate setting device 15.
electrically-driven or motor-driven compressor 1, a heat The prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1 includes a control
exchanger 2, and a blower or fan 3. The heat exchanger 2 is ler 20 having a microcomputer or a similar device. The
located outside the interior (the passenger's compartment) of controller 20 is electrically connected to the refrigerant
the vehicle. The heat exchanger 2 can be exposed to an air throttle valve 4, the four-way valve 7, the mix actuator 23,
flow (an atmosphere flow) generated by the blower 3. the temperature setting device 14, and the inverter 21. The
The prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1 includes an air 10 controller 20 operates in accordance with a program stored
intake device or an incoming-air selection device 38 dis in an internal ROM. According to the program, the control
posed in an upstream end of an air duct. The upstream end ler 20 controls the refrigerant throttle valve 4, the four-way
of the air duct has a first inlet for introducing air from the valve 7, the mix actuator 23, and the inverter 21 in response
interior of the vehicle, and a second inlet for introducing air to the desired temperature set by the temperature setting
from an exterior of the vehicle. The air intake device 38 has 15 device 14.
a rotatable valve for selecting one out of air (indoor air) The controller 20 decides a desired mode of operation of
coming from the vehicle interior, air (outdoor air or fresh air) the air conditioner in response to the desired temperature set
coming from the vehicle exterior, and a mixture of indoor air by the temperature setting device 14. When the desired
and outdoor air as incoming air drawn toward a main portion temperature is in a first predetermined range, the controller
of the air duct. A blower or fan 6 disposed in a region of 20 decides that a cooling mode of operation of the air
downstream of downstream of the air intake device 38 conditioner is desired. As shown in FIG. 2, the first tem
drives the incoming air from the air intake device 38 toward perature range extends between temperature points T1 and
a downstream side. T2. When the desired temperature is in a second predeter
In the prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1, a downstream mined range, the controller 20 decides that a dehumidifying
portion of the air ductis divided by partition walls into a first 25 and heating mode of operation of the air conditioner is
branch passage 9 and a second branch passage 22. A heat desired. As shown in FIG. 2, the second temperature range
exchanger 10 is disposed in a region of the air duct down extends between the temperature point T2 and a temperature
stream of the blower 6 and upstream of the first and second point T3. When the desired temperature is in a third prede
branch passages 9 and 22. A heat exchanger 11 is disposed termined range, the controller 20 decides that a heating
in the first branch passage 9. The first and second branch 30 mode of operation of the air conditioneris desired. As shown
passages 9 and 22 meet at a downstream end of the air duct. in FIG. 2, the third temperature range extends between the
The downstream end of the air duct has an outlet 8 for temperature point T3 and a temperature point T4. In
discharging air into the vehicle interior. A rotatable mix addition, the controller 20 calculates a desired rotational
damper 12 is disposed in a region of the air duct downstream speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 1
of the heat exchanger 10 and immediately upstream of inlets 35 from the desired temperature set by the temperature setting
of the first and second branch passages 9 and 22. The mix device 14. The controller 20 adjusts the inverter 21 in
damper 12 controls the ratio between the rate of an airflow response to the calculated desired rotational speed so that the
into the first branch passage 9 and the rate of an airflow into actual rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
the second branch passage 22, thereby adjusting the tem compressor 1 will be substantially equal to the desired
perature of air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle 40 rotational speed thereof. Further, the controller 20 calculates
interior. The mix damper 12 is driven by a mix actuator 23 a desired position of the mix damper 12 from the desired
of an electrically-powered type. temperature set by the temperature setting device 14. The
In the prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1, a four-way valve controller 20 adjusts the mix actuator 23 in response to the
7 of an electrically-driven type, a refrigerant throttle valve 4 calculated desired position so that the actual position of the
of an electrically-driven type, the heat exchangers 2, 10, and 45 mix damper 12 will be substantially equal to the desired
11, and the electrically-driven compressor Iare connected by position thereof. Moreover, the controller 20 changes the
pipes 5 in a loop where refrigerant can be circulated. An four-way valve 7 and controls the refrigerant throttle valve
inverter 21 serves to drive the motor of the electrically 4 in response to the result of the decision regarding the
driven compressor 1 at a variable rotational speed. The desired mode of operation of the air conditioner.
circulation flow rate of refrigerantin the loop depends on the 50 The prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1 operates as follows.
rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven In the case where the cooling mode of operation of the air
compressor 1 and also the position of the refrigerant throttle conditioner is required, the desired temperature within the
valve 4. vehicle interior is set in the temperature range between the
The prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1 includes an opera temperature points T1 and T2 (see FIG. 2) by manipulating
tion panel 13 on which a temperature setting device 14 and 55 the temperature setting device 14. The temperature points T1
an air-flowrate setting device 15 are provided. The tempera and T2 correspond to, for example, 5° C. and 15° C.
ture setting device 14 includes a variable resistor for setting respectively. In this case, the controller 20 judges the desired
a desired temperature (a setting temperature) within the mode of operation of the air conditioner to be the cooling
vehicle interior or setting a parameter related to the tem mode. Accordingly, the controller 20 changes the four-way
perature of air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle valve 7 to a position at which the air conditioner can execute
interior. The air-flow-rate setting device 15 includes a cooling process. In addition, the controller 20 adjusts the
switches for setting a desired flow rate of air discharged via refrigerant throttle valve 4 to a suitable position. Further, the
the outlet 8 into the vehicle interior. The air-flow-rate setting controller 20 sets the desired position of the mix damper 12
device 15 is electrically connected to a resistor 16 for to a full cold position “A” (see FIG. 1). The controller 20
adjusting the rotational speed of the blower 6, that is, the 65 adjusts the mix actuator 23 in response to the desired
flow rate of air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle position so that the mix damper 12 will be in the full cold
interior. The resistor 16 is controlled in response to the position “A” where the first branch passage 9 is fully
5,669,226
7 8
blocked while the second branch passage 22 is fully addition, the controller 20 adjusts the refrigerant throttle
unblocked. Moreover, the controller 20 calculates the valve 4 to a suitable position. Further, the controller 20 sets
desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically the desired position of the mix damper 12 to the full hot
driven compressor 1 from the desired temperature within the position “B” (see FIG. 1). The controller 20 adjusts the mix
vehicle interior. It is shown in FIG. 2 that the desired
rotational speed decreases as the desired temperature (the actuator 23 in response to the desired position so that the mix
setting temperature) within the vehicle interior increases damper 12 will be in the full hot position "B" where the first
from the temperature point T1 to the temperature point T2. branch passage 9 is fully unblocked while the second branch
The controller 20 adjusts the inverter 21 in response to the passage 22 is fully blocked. Moreover, the controller 20
calculated desired rotational speed so that the actual rota calculates the desired rotational speed of the motor of the
tional speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compres
10 electrically-driven compressor 1 from the desired tempera
ture within the vehicle interior. It is shown in FIG. 2 that the
sor 1 will be substantially equal to the desired rotational desired rotational speed increases as the desired temperature
speed thereof. Accordingly, during the cooling mode of within the vehicle interior increases from the temperature
operation of the air conditioner, the rotational speed of the point T3 to the temperature point T4. The controller 20
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 1, that is, the 15 adjusts the inverter 21 in response to the calculated desired
circulation flow rate of refrigerant, is varied in accordance rotational speed so that the actual rotational speed of the
with the desired temperature of the vehicle interior. Thus, the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 1 will be sub
temperature of air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle stantially equal to the desired rotational speed thereof.
interior can be changed in response to the desired tempera Accordingly, during the heating mode of operation of the air
ture within the vehicle interior. 20 conditioner, the rotational speed of the motor of the
In the case where the dehumidifying and heating mode of electrically-driven
operation of the air conditioner is required, the desired rate of refrigerant, compressor is varied in
1, that is, the circulation flow
accordance with the desired
temperature within the vehicle interior is set in the tempera temperature of the vehicle interior. Thus, the temperature of
ture range between the temperature points T2 and T3 (see air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle interior can be
FIG. 2) by manipulating the temperature setting device 14. 25 changed in response to the desired temperature within the
The temperature points T2 and T3 correspond to, for vehicle interior.
example, 15° C. and 30° C. respectively. In this case, the In the prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1, the actual
controller 20 judges the desired mode of operation of the air rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
conditioner to be the dehumidifying and heating mode. compressor
Accordingly, the controller 20 changes the four-way valve 7 30 tional speed 1which generally remains fixed at the desired rota
is uniquely determined by the desired
to a position at which the air conditioner can execute a temperature within the vehicle interior as shown in FIG. 2.
cooling process. In addition, the controller 20 adjusts the The desired rotational speed is made independent of a load
refrigerant throttle valve 4 to a suitable position. Further, the on the air conditioner. The load on the air conditioner is
controller 20 calculates the desired position of the mix determined by various factors including the intensity of
damper 12 from the desired temperature within the vehicle 35 sunshine applied to the vehicle and the flow rate of air
interior. It is shown in FIG. 2 that the desired position of the discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle interior.
mix damper 12 moves from the full cold position (“A” in
FIG. 1) to a full hot position (“B” in FIG. 1) as the desired 8Accordingly, the temperature of air discharged via the outlet
into the vehicle interior tends to vary when the intensity of
temperature within the vehicle interior increases from the sunshine applied to the vehicle changes, for example, when
temperature point T2 to the temperature point T3. The the
controller 20 adjusts the mix actuator 23 in response to the sunshine. Themoves
vehicle into a tunnel from a place exposed to
dependence of the discharged-air temperature
desired position so that the actual position of the mix damper upon the sunshine intensity
12 will be substantially equal to the desired position thereof. vehicle-interior temperature at disturbsthe
the control of the
desired temperature.
Moreover, the controller 20 sets the desired rotational speed
of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 1 to a 45 In the prior-art air conditioner of FIG. 1, the desired
predetermined minimum rotational speed. The controller 20 compressor rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
adjusts the inverter 21 in response to the desired rotational 1 remains fixed independent of the flow rate of
speed (the minimum rotational speed) so that the actual air discharged via the outlet 8 into the vehicle interior. The
rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically
compressor 1 will be substantially equal to the minimum 50 driven compressor 1 determines the rate of work executed
rotational speed thereof. Accordingly, during the dehumidi by the air conditioner. The flow rate of air discharged via the
fying and heating mode of operation of the air conditioner, outlet 8 into the vehicle interioris one of factors determining
the position of the mix damper 12 is varied in accordance the load on the air conditioner. Generally, it seems better for
with the desired temperature of the vehicle Interior. Thus, the control of the vehicle-interior temperature that the rate of
the temperature of air discharged via the outlet 8 into the 55 work executed by the air conditioner is increased as the load
vehicle interior can be changed in response to the desired on the air conditioner increases. Accordingly, it appears
temperature within the vehicle interior. better that the desired rotational speed of the motor of the
In the case where the heating mode of operation of the air electrically-driven
of air discharged
compressor 1 is increased as the flow rate
via the outlet 8 into the vehicle interior
conditioner is required, the desired temperature within the increases.
vehicle interior is set in the temperature range between the
temperature points T3 and T4 (see FIG. 2) by manipulating First Embodiment
the temperature setting device 14. The temperature point T3
corresponds to, for example, 30° C. In this case, the con vehicle according to aconditioning
FIG. 3 shows an air apparatus for an electric
troller 20 judges the desired mode of operation of the air which is a heat pump apparatus able to of
first embodiment this invention
execute cooling,
conditioner to be the heating mode. Accordingly, the con 65 heating, and dehumidifying processes. With reference to
troller 20 changes the four-way valve 7 to a position at which FIG. 3, the air conditioning apparatus includes an
the air conditioner can execute a heating process. In electrically-driven or motor-driven compressor 101 a heat
5,669,226
9 10
exchanger 102, and a blower orfan 103. The heat exchanger discharged via the outlet 108 into the vehicle interior. The
102 is located outside the interior (the passenger's air-flow-rate setting device 115 is electrically connected to a
compartment) of the vehicle. The heat exchanger 102 also resistor 116 for adjusting the rotational speed of the blower
extends outside an air duct. The heat exchanger 102 can be 106, that is, the flow rate of air discharged via the outlet 108
exposed to an airflow (an atmosphere flow) generated by the into the vehicle interior. The resistor 116 is controlled in
blower 103. response to the output signal of the air-flow-rate setting
The air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3 includes an air device 115 so that the actual flow rate of air discharged into
intake device or an incoming-air selection device 138 dis the vehicle interior will be substantially equal to the desired
posed in an upstream end of the air duct. The upstream end air flow rate set by the air-flow-rate setting device 115. A
of the air duct has a first inlet for introducing air from the 10 temperature sensor 129 disposed in a region of the air duct
interior of the vehicle, and a second inlet for introducing air downstream of the heat exchanger 110 and upstream of the
from an exterior of the vehicle. The air intake device 138 has mix damper 112. The temperature sensor 129 detects the
a rotatable valve for selecting one out of air (indoor air) temperature of air at a place downstream of the heat
coming from the vehicle interior, air (outdoor air or fresh air) exchanger 110 and upstream of the mix damper 112.
coming from the vehicle exterior, and a mixture of indoor air 15 The air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3 includes a
and outdoor air as incoming air drawn toward a main portion controller 120 having a microcomputer or a similar device.
of the air duct. The valve in the air intake device 138 is The controller 120 includes a combination of a CPU, a
driven by an electrically-powered intake actuator 128. A ROM, a RAM, and an input/output port (an interface). The
blower or fan 106 disposed in a region of the air duct controller 120 is electrically connected to the refrigerant
downstream of the air intake device 138 drives the incoming throttle valve 104, the four-way valve 107, the mix actuator
air from the air intake device 138 toward a downstream side. 123, the temperature setting device 114, the inverter 121,
In the air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3, a downstream and the temperature sensor 129. The controller 120 operates
portion of the air duct is divided by partition walls into a first in accordance with a program stored in the internal ROM.
branch passage 109 and a second branch passage 122. Aheat According to the program, the controller 120 controls the
exchanger 110 is disposed in a region of the air duct 25 refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve 107, the
downstream of the blower 106 and upstream of the first and mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response to the
second branch passages 109 and 122. Aheat exchanger 111 desired temperature set by the temperature setting device
1s disposed in the first branch passage 109. The first and 114 and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor
second branch passages 109 and 122 meet at a downstream 129.
end of the air duct. The downstream end of the air duct has 30FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
an outlet 108 for discharging air into the vehicle interior. A 120. With reference to FIG. 4, an operation-mode deciding
rotatable mix damper 112 is disposed in a region of the air block 124 is informed of the desired temperature set by the
duct downstream of the heat exchanger 110 and immediately temperature setting device 114. The operation-mode decid
upstream of inlets of the first and second branch passages ing block 124 decides a desired mode of operation of the air
109 and 122. The mix damper 112 controls the ratio between 35 conditioning apparatus in response to the desired tempera
the rate of an airflow into the first branch passage 109 and ture set by the temperature setting device 114. When the
the rate of an air flow into the second branch passage 122, desired temperature is in a first predetermined range, the
thereby adjusting the temperature of air discharged via the operation-mode deciding block 124 decides that a cooling
outlet 108 into the vehicle interior. The mix damper 112 is mode of operation of the air conditioning apparatus is
driven by a mix actuator 123 of an electrically-powered 40 desired. As shown in FIG. 5, the first predetermined range
type. extends between preset temperature points T11 and T12.
In the air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3, a four-way When the desired temperature is in a second predetermined
valve 107 of an electrically-driven type, a refrigerant throttle range, the operation-mode deciding block 124 decides that
valve 104 of an electrically-driven type, the heat exchangers a dehumidifying and heating mode of operation of the air
102, 110, and 111, and the electrically-driven compressor 45 conditioning apparatus is desired. As shown in FIG. 5, the
101 are connected by pipes 105 in a loop where refrigerant second predetermined temperature range extends between
can be circulated. An inverter 121 serves to drive the motor the preset temperature point T12 and a preset temperature
of the electrically-driven compressor 101 at a variable point T13. When the desired temperature is in a third
rotational speed. The circulation flow rate of refrigerant in predetermined range, the operation-mode deciding block
the loop depends on the rotational speed of the motor of the 50 124 decides that a heating mode of operation of the air
electrically-driven compressor 101 and also the position of conditioning apparatus is desired. As shown in FIG. 5, the
the refrigerant throttle valve 104. third predetermined temperature range extends between the
The air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3 includes an preset temperature point T13 and a preset temperature point
operation panel 113 on which an intake air selector 127, a T14. A target-temperature calculating block 141 is informed
temperature setting device 114, and an air-flow-rate setting 55 of the desired temperature set by the temperature setting
device 115 are provided. The incoming air selector 127 device 114. The target-temperature calculating block 141
includes Switches corresponding to air recirculation (indoor calculates a target temperature of air downstream of the heat
air introduction) and fresh air introduction respectively. The exchanger 110 from the desired temperature set by the
intake air selector 127 is electrically connected to the intake temperature setting device 114. A difference calculating
actuator 128. The intake actuator 128 drives the air intake block117 is informed of the target temperature calculated by
device 138 in response to an output signal of the intake air the target-temperature calculating block 141. Also, the dif
selector 127. The temperature setting device 114 includes a ference calculating block 117 is informed of the actual
variable resistor for setting a desired temperature (a setting temperature of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110
temperature) within the vehicle interior or setting a param which is detected by the temperature sensor 129. The
eter related to the temperature of air discharged via the outlet 65 difference calculating block 117 calculates the difference
108 into the vehicle interior. The air-flow-rate setting device between the target temperature and the actual temperature. A
115 includes switches for setting a desired flow rate of air temperature-variation calculating block 118 is informed of
5,669,226
11 12
the actual temperature of air downstream of the heat first branch passage 109 is fully blocked while the second
exchanger 110 which is detected by the temperature sensor branch passage 122 is fully unblocked. Moreover, the con
129. The temperature-variation calculating block 118 calcu troller 120 calculates a target temperature TmTRG of air
lates a variation in the actual temperature which occurs downstream of the heat exchanger 110 from the desired
during every given period. A corrective-speed calculating temperature (the setting temperature) Tset given by the
block 119 is informed of the temperature difference calcu temperature setting device 114. It is shown in FIG.5 that the
lated by the difference calculating block 117. Also, the target temperature TmTRG of air downstream of the heat
corrective-speed calculating block 119 is informed of the exchanger 110 increases as the desired temperature Tset
temperature variation calculated by the temperature within the vehicle interior rises from the temperature point
variation calculating block 118. The corrective-speed calcu O T11 to the temperature point T12. In this case, the target
lating block 119 calculates a corrective rotational speed of temperature TmTRG is variable in the range of, for example,
the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 from the 2° C. to 15° C. The temperature sensor 129 informs the
temperature difference and the temperature variation. A controller 120 of the actual temperature Tm of air down
desired-speed calculating block 125 is informed of the stream of the heat exchanger 110. The controller 120 cal
corrective rotational speed calculated by the corrective 15 culates the difference TmSA between the target temperature
speed calculating block 119. The desired-speed calculating TmTRG and the actual temperature Tm. The controller 120
block 125 repetitively updates a desired rotational speed of calculates a variation TmHE in the actual temperature Tm
the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 in which occurs during every given period. The given period is
response to the corrective rotational speed. Specifically, a equal to, for example, 10 seconds. The controller 120
new desired rotational speed is equal to the sum of an 20 calculates a corrective rotational speed Afof the motor of the
immediately-preceding desired rotational speed and the cor electrically-driven compressor 101 from the temperature
rective rotational speed. A speed outputting block 126 is difference TmSA and the temperature variation TmHE. The
informed of the desired rotational speed of the motor of the controller 120 repetitively updates a desired rotational speed
electrically-driven compressor 101 which is given by the “f” of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 in
desired-speed calculating block 125. The speed outputting 25 response to the corrective rotational speed Af. Specifically,
block 126 outputs information of the desired rotational a new desired rotational speed “f” is equal to the sum of an
speed to the inverter 121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is immediately-preceding desired rotational speed “f” and the
adjusted in response to the desired rotational speed so that corrective rotational speed Af. The controller 120 adjusts the
the actual rotational speed of the motor of the electrically inverter 121 in response to the desired rotational speed “f”
driven compressor 101 will be substantially equal to the 30 so that the actual rotational speed of the motor of the
desired rotational speed thereof. Amix outputting block 140 electrically-driven compressor 101 will be substantially
is informed of the desired temperature set by the temperature equal to the desired rotational speed “f” thereof.
setting device 114. The mix outputting block 140 calculates In the case where the dehumidifying and heating mode of
a desired position of the mix damper 112 from the desired operation of the air conditioning apparatus is required, the
temperature set by the temperature setting device 114. The 35 desired temperature within the vehicle interior is set in the
mix outputting block 140 adjusts the mix actuator 123 in temperature range between the temperature points T12 and
response to the calculated desired position so that the actual T13 (see FIG. 5) by manipulating the temperature setting
position of the mix damper 112 will be substantially equal to device 114. The temperature points T12 and T13 correspond
the desired position thereof. An output controlling block 130 to, for example, 15° C. and 30° C. respectively. In this case,
is informed of the result of the decision executed by the the controller 120 judges the desired mode of operation of
operation-mode deciding block 124. The output controlling the air conditioning apparatus to be the dehumidifying and
block 130 changes the four-way valve 107 and controls the heating mode. Accordingly, the controller 120 changes the
refrigerant throttle valve 104 in response to the result of the four-way valve 107 to the position at which the air condi
decision executed by the operation-mode deciding block tioning apparatus can execute the cooling process with
124, that is, the result of the decision regarding the desired 45 respect to air in the air duct. This position of the four-way
mode of operation of the air conditioning apparatus. valve 107 is denoted by the solid lines in FIG. 3. In addition,
The air conditioning apparatus of FIG. 3 operates as the 15 controller 120 adjusts the refrigerant throttle valve
follows. In the case where the cooling mode of operation of 104 to a suitable position. Further, the controller 120 cal
the air conditioning apparatus is required, the desired tem culates a desired position of the mix damper 112 from the
perature (the setting temperature) within the vehicle interior 50 desired temperature (the setting temperature) Tset given by
is set in the temperature range between the temperature the temperature setting device 114. It is shown in FIG.5 that
points T11 and T12 (see FIG. 5) by manipulating the the desired position of the mix damper 112 moves from the
temperature setting device 114. The temperature points T11 full cold position (“A” in FIG. 3) to a full hot position (“B”
and T12 correspond to, for example, 5° C. and 15° C. in FIG. 3) as the desired temperature Tset within the vehicle
respectively. In this case, the controller 120 judges the 55 interior rises from the temperature point T12 to the tem
desired mode of operation of the air conditioning apparatus perature point T13. The controller 120 adjusts the mix
to be the cooling mode. Accordingly, the controller 120 actuator 123 in response to the calculated desired position so
changes the four-way valve 107 to a position at which the air
conditioning apparatus can execute a cooling process with that the actual position of the mix damper 112 will be
substantially equal to the desired position thereof. When the
respect to air in the air duct. This position of the four-way mix damper 112 assumes the full hot position (“B” in FIG.
valve 107 is denoted by the solid lines in FIG.3.In addition, 3), the first branch passage 109 is fully unblocked and the
the controller 120 adjusts the refrigerant throttle valve 104 second branch passage 122 is fully blocked. Moreover, the
to a suitable position. Further, the controller 120 sets the controller 120 sets the target temperature TmTRG of air
desired position of the mix damper 112 to a full cold position downstream of the heat exchanger 110 to a preset tempera
“A” (see FIG.3). The controller 120 adjusts the mix actuator 65 ture equal to, for example, 15° C. The temperature sensor
123 in response to the desired position so that the mix 129 informs the controller 120 of the actual temperature Tm
damper 112 will be in the full cold position “A” where the of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110. The controller
5,669,226
13 14
120 calculates the difference TmSA between the target so that the actual rotational speed of the motor of the
temperature TmTRG and the actual temperature Tm. The electrically-driven compressor 101 will be substantially
controller 120 calculates a variation TmHE in the actual equal to the desired rotational speed “f” thereof.
temperature Tm which occurs during every given period. As previously described, the controller 120 operates in
The given period is equal to, for example, 10 seconds. The accordance with a program stored in the internal ROM. FIG.
controller 120 calculates a corrective rotational speed Af of 6 is a flowchart of a segment of the program which is
the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 from the iteratively executed at a given period equal to, for example,
temperature difference TmSA and the temperature variation 10 seconds.
TmHE. The controller 120 repetitively updates a desired As shown in FIG. 6, a first step S1 of the program segment
rotational speed “f” of the motor of the electrically-driven 10 derives the desired temperature (the setting temperature)
compressor 101 in response to the corrective rotational Tset within the vehicle interior from the output signal of the
speed Af. Specifically, a new desired rotational speed “f” is temperature setting device 114. A step S2 following the step
equal to the sum of an immediately-preceding desired rota S1 derives the current actual temperature Tm(n) of air
tional speed “f” and the corrective rotational speed Af. The downstream of the heat exchanger 110 by the output signal
controller 120 adjusts the inverter 121 in response to the 15 of the temperature sensor 129. A step 53 subsequent to the
desired rotational speed “f” so that the actual rotational step S2 calculates a target temperature TmTRG of air
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 downstream of the heat exchanger 110 from the desired
will be substantially equal to the desired rotational speed “f” temperature Tset. A step S4 following the step S3 calculates
thereof. the difference TmSA between the target temperature
In the case where the heating mode of operation of the air TmTRG and the current actual temperatureTm(n). A step S5
conditioning apparatus is required, the desired temperature subsequent to the step S4 calculates a variation TmHE in the
actual temperature which occurs during the interval between
within the vehicle interior is set in the temperature range the moment of the current execution cycle of the program
between the temperature points T13 and T14 (see FIG. 5) by segment and the moment of the immediately preceding
manipulating the temperature setting device 114. The tem
perature points T13 and T14 correspond to, for example, 30° 25 execution cycle of the program segment. Specifically, the
C. and 60° C. respectively. In this case, the controller 120 actualstep S5 calculates the difference. TmBHE between the current
judges the desired mode of operation of the air conditioning actual temperature Tm(n) and the immediately preceding
apparatus to be the heating mode. Accordingly, the control temperature Tm(n-1).
ler 120 changes the four-way valve 107 to a position at Astep S6 following the step SS decides whether or not the
which the air conditioning apparatus can execute a heating 30 desired temperature (the setting temperature) Tset within the
process with respect to air in the air duct. This position of the vehicle interior is in the given range between the tempera
four-way valve 107 is denoted by the broken lines in FIG.3. ture points T11 and T13 (see FIG. 5). When the desired
In addition, the controller 120 adjusts the refrigerant throttle temperature Tsetis in the given range, the program advances
valve 104 to a suitable position. Further, the controller 120 from the step S6 to a step S7. Otherwise, the program
sets the desired position of the mix damper 112 to the full hot 35 advances from the step S6 to a step S8. The step S7
position “B” (see FIG.3). The controller 120 adjusts the mix calculates a corrective rotational speed f1 of the motor of the
actuator 123 in response to the desired position so that the electrically-driven compressor 101 from the temperature
mix damper 112 will be in the full hot position “B” where difference TmSA and the temperature variation TmHE by
the first branch passage 109 is fully unblocked while the referring to a first predetermined relation thereamong. An
second branch passage 122 is fully blocked. Moreover, the 40 example of the first predetermined relation is shown in FIG.
controller 120 calculates a target temperature TmTRG of air 7. The step S7 sets a variable Af equal to the corrective
downstream of the heat exchanger 110 from the desired rotational speed f1. After the step S7, the program advances
temperature (the setting temperature) Tset given by the to a step S9. The step S8 calculates a corrective rotational
temperature setting device 114. It is shown in FIG. 5that the speed f2 of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor
target temperature TmTRG of air downstream of the heat 45 101 from the temperature difference TmSA and the tem
exchanger 110 increases as the desired temperature Tset perature variation TmHE by referring to a second predeter
within the vehicle interior rises from the temperature point mined relation thereamong. An example of the second
T13 to the temperature point T14. In this case, the target predetermined relation is shown in FIG.8. The step S8 sets
temperature TmTRG is variable in the range of, for example, the variable Af equal to the corrective rotational speed f2.
15° C. to 60° C. The temperature sensor 129 informs the 50 After the step S8, the program advances to the step S9.
controller 120 of the actual temperature Tm of air down The step S9 adds the corrective rotational speed. Afto a
stream of the heat exchanger 110. The controller 120 cal desired rotational speed f(n-1) of the motor of the
culates the difference TmSA between the target temperature electrically-driven compressor 101 which is given in the
TmTRG and the actual temperature Tm. The controller 120 immediately preceding execution cycle of the program seg
calculates a variation TmHE in the actual temperature Tm 55 ment. The step S9 sets a current desired rotational speed f(n)
which occurs during every given period. The given period is of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to the
equal to, for example, 10 seconds. The controller 120 result of the addition. A step S10 following the step S9
calculates a corrective rotational speed Af of the motor of the outputs a signal representative of the current desired rota
electrically-driven compressor 101 from the temperature tional speed fin) to the inverter 121. Therefore, the inverter
difference TmSA and the temperature variation TmHE. The 121 is controlled in response to the current desired rotational
controller 120 repetitively updates a desired rotational speed speed f(n) so that the actual rotational speed of the motor of
“f” of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 in the electrically-driven compressor 101 will be substantially
response to the corrective rotational speed of. Specifically, equal to the desired rotational speed fin) thereof. A step S11
a new desired rotational speed “f” is equal to the sum of an subsequent to the step S10 sets the value Tm?n-1) equal to
immediately-preceding desired rotational speed “f” and the 65 the value Tm (n). In addition, the step S11 sets the value
corrective rotational speed Af. The controller 120 adjusts the f(n-1) equal to the value f(n). After the step S11, the current
inverter 121 in response to the desired rotational speed “f” execution cycle of the program segment ends.
5,669,226
15 16
A description will now be given of the case where the air speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101
conditioning apparatus is operated in the cooling mode is changed at an early stage to suppress overshoot and
under the following conditions. The cooling load is rela hunting.
tively small. The desired temperature (the setting ture Tm For of
example, in the case where the actual tempera
air downstream of the heat exchanger 110
temperature) Tset within the vehicle interior is equal to the
lowest temperature T11 (see FIG. 5). The desired flow rate becomes close to the target temperature TmTRG thereof
during the operation of the air conditioning apparatus in the
of air discharged via the outlet 108 into the vehicle interior cooling mode, when the temperature difference TmSA drops
is equal to the minimum rate (Lo). In this case, when the to "+middle" and the temperature variation TmHE is
actual temperature Tm of air downstream of the heat
exchanger 110 which is detected by the temperature sensor O "-great” (see FIG. 7), the corrective rotational speed Afis
set to “-small". Thus, the desired rotational speed “f” of the
129 drops below the target temperature TmTRG thereof, the motor
controller 120 or the corrective-speed calculating block 119 reducedofatthe an
electrically-driven compressor 101 can be
early stage. Accordingly, it is possible to
in FIG. 4 decreases the rotational speed of the motor of the suppress overshoot and hunting in the control of the tem
electrically-driven compressor 101 to raise the actual tem
perature Tm. Accordingly, the motor of the electrically 15 perature Tm of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110.
driven compressor 101 can be driven at a rotational speed Second Embodiment
optimal for equalizing the actual temperature Tm and the FIG. 9 shows a second embodiment of this invention
target temperature Tm TRG. In this case, the target tempera which is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3–8 except that
ture TmTRG is equal to, for example, 2 C. Thus, the
cooling ability of the air conditioning apparatus is prevented 20 a controller 120A replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3.
from excessively increasing. Further, it is possible to reduce lar device having 120A
The controller
a
includes a microcomputer or a simi
combination of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM,
the frequency of the occurrence of a freeze of the heat and an input/output port (an interface). The controller 120A
exchanger 110. is electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve 104,
During the operation of the air conditioning apparatus in a four-way valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature
the cooling mode, the dehumidifying and heating mode, or 25 setting device 114, an air-flow-rate setting device 115, an
the heating mode under various conditions of the thermal inverter 121, and a temperature sensor 129. The controller
load on the air conditioning apparatus and the desired air 120A operates in accordance with a program stored in the
flow rate, the motor of the electrically-driven compressor internal ROM. According to the program, the controller
101 can be driven at a rotational speed being responsive to 120A controls the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four
the thermal load and being optimal for equalizing the actual 30 way valve 107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in
temperature Tm and the target temperature TmTRG. Thus, response to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set
the cooling ability or the heating ability of the air condi by the temperature setting device 114, a desired airflow rate
tioning apparatus is prevented from excessively increasing. set by the air-flow-rate setting device 115, and a temperature
Further, it is possible to reduce the frequency of the occur detected by the temperature sensor 129.
rence of a freeze of the heat exchanger 110. 35 FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
As previously described, the corrective rotational speed 120A. With reference to FIG. 10, a desired-speed calculating
Af of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is block 125 is followed by a limiting block 131. The limiting
determined on the basis of the temperature difference TmSA block 131 is informed of a desired rotational speed of the
and the temperature variation TmHE. This design enables motor of an electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
the following processes. In the case where the actual tem given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In
perature Tm of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110 addition, the limiting block131 is informed of the desired air
considerably separates from the target temperature TmTRG flow rate given by the air-flow-rate setting device 115. The
thereof during a transition of conditions of the operation of limiting block 131 calculates an upper limit of the desired
the air conditioning apparatus, the rotational speed of the rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 can 45 compressor 101 from the desired airflow rate given by the
promptly be increased to the maximum rotational speed. For air-flow-rate setting device 115. As shown in FIG. 11, the
example, in the case where the air conditioning apparatus is calculated upper limit is equal to a lowest preset rotational
started to operate in the cooling mode and the cooling load
is relatively great, the actual temperature Tm of air down speed UL1 when the desired airflow rate corresponds to a
lowest rate Lo. The calculated upper limit is equal to a
stream of the heat exchanger 110 is considerably higher than 50
the target temperature TmTRG thereof. When the tempera second lowest preset rotational speed UL2 when the desired
ture difference TmSA is "great” and the temperature varia calculatedrateupper
air flow corresponds to a lower middle rate ML. The
limit is equal to a second highest preset
tion TmHE is “tsmall” (see FIG.7), the corrective rotational rotational speed UL3 when the desired air flow rate corre
speed Afis setto "great". Thus, for every given period, the sponds to a higher middle rate MH. The calculated upper
desired rotational speed “f” of the motor of the electrically 55 limit is equal to a highest preset rotational speed UL4 when
driven compressor 101 is incremented by a large value the desired air flow rate corresponds to a highest rate Hi.
corresponding to "+great" (the corrective rotational speed Af When the desired rotational speed of the motor of the
equal to, for example, 10 Hz). Accordingly, the rotational electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to or lower than
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 the calculated upper limit, the limiting block 131 holds the
can promptly be increased to the maximum rotational speed. 60 desired rotational speed unchanged. In other words, the
The prompt increase in the rotational speed of the motor of limiting block 131 does not change the desired rotational
the electrically-driven compressor 101 enables the actual speed. On the other hand, when the desired rotational speed
temperature Tm of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110 of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101
to quickly reach the target temperature TmTRG thereof. In exceeds the calculated upper limit, the limiting block 131
the case where the actual temperature Tm of air downstream 65 sets or reduces the desired rotational speed to the calculated
of the heat exchanger 110 becomes close to the target upper limit. In this way, the limiting block 131 limits the
temperature TmTRG thereof, the control of the rotational upper side of the desired rotational speed in response to the
5,669,226
17 18
desired air flow rate. A speed outputting block 126 is a four-way valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature
informed of the desired rotational speed of the motor of the setting device 114, an inverter 121, an intake air selector
electrically-driven compressor 101 which is given by the 127, and a temperature sensor 129. The controller 120B
limiting block 131. The speed outputting block 126 outputs operates in accordance with a program stored in the internal
information of the desired rotational speed to the inverter ROM. According to the program, the controller 120B con
121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is adjusted in response to trols the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve
the desired rotational speed so that the actual rotational 107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set by the
will be substantially equal to the desired rotational speed temperature setting device 114, the position or the state of
thereof. 10
the intake air selector 127, and a temperature detected by the
temperature sensor 129.
A description will now be given of the case where an air FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
conditioning apparatus is operated in a cooling mode under 120B. With reference to FIG.13, a desired-speed calculating
the following conditions. The cooling load is relatively block 125 is followed by a limiting block 132. The limiting
Small. A desired temperature (a setting temperature) Tset block 132 is informed of a desired rotational speed of the
within a vehicle interior is equal to allowest temperature T11 15 motor of an electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
(see FIG. 5). The desired flow rate of air discharged via an given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In
outlet 108 into the vehicle interior is equal to the minimum addition, the limiting block 132 is informed of the position
rate (Lo). In this case, when an actual temperature Tm of air or the state of the intake air selector 127. Only when the
downstream of a heat exchanger 110 which is detected by position or the state of the intake air selector 127 corre
the temperature sensor 129 is considerably higher than a sponds to fresh air introduction, the limiting block 132 sets
target temperature TmTRG thereof, the controller 120A an upper limit of the desired rotational speed of the motor of
increases the rotational speed of the motor of the the electrically-driven compressor 101. The upper limit is
electrically-driven compressor 101 to drop the actual tem equal to, for example, 50 Hz. In the case where the position
perature Tim. At the same time, the controller 120Alimits the or the state of the intake air selector 127 corresponds to the
desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically 25 fresh air introduction, when the desired rotational speed of
driven compressor 101 to within the range equal to or the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal
smaller than the upper limit UL1 (see FIG.11). Accordingly, to or lower than the upper limit, the limiting block 132 holds
during a certain time interval following the start of the air the desired rotational speed unchanged. In other words, the
conditioning apparatus, the motor of the electrically-driven 30 limiting block 132 does not change the desired rotational
compressor 101 generally remains driven at a given speed speed. On the other hand, when the desired rotational speed
corresponding to the upper limit UL1. The upper limit UL1 of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101
is equal to, for example, 50 Hz. Thus, the cooling ability of exceeds the upper limit, the limiting block 132 sets or
the air conditioning apparatus is prevented from excessively reduces the desired rotational speed to the upper limit. In this
increasing. way, the limiting block 132 limits the upper side of the
A description will now be given of the case where the air 35 desired rotational speed. In the case where the position or the
state of the intake air selector 127 disagrees with the fresh
conditioning apparatus is operated in a heating mode under air introduction, the limiting block 132 does not limit the
the following conditions. The heating load is relatively desired
small. The desired temperature (the setting temperature) Tset informedrotational
of the
speed. A speed outputting block 126 is
desired rotational speed of the motor of the
within the vehicle interior is equal to a highest temperature 40 electrically-driven compressor 101 which is given by the
T14 (see FIG. 5). The desired flow rate of air discharged via limiting block 132. The speed outputting block 126 outputs
the outlet 108 into the vehicle interior is equal to the information of the desired rotational speed
maximum rate (Hi). In this case, when the actual tempera 121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is adjustedtointhe inverter
response to
ture Tm of air downstream of the heat exchanger 110 which
is detected by the temperature sensor 129 is considerably 45 the desired rotational speed so that the actual rotational
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101
lower than the target temperature TmTRG thereof, the will be substantially equal to the desired rotational speed
controller 120A increases the rotational speed of the motor thereof.
of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to raise the actual
temperature Tm. At the same time, the controller 120A limits A description will now be given of the case where an air
the desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically 50 the followingapparatus
conditioning is operated in a cooling mode under
conditions. The cooling load is relatively
driven compressor 101 to within the range equal to or
small. The position or the state of the intake air selector 127
Smaller than the upper limit ULA (see FIG. 11). Accordingly, corresponds
during a certain time interval following the start of the air pressure to the fresh air introduction. In this case, the
conditioning apparatus, the motor of the electrically-driven at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor
compressor 101 generally remains driven at a given speed 101 tends to rise. As previously described, when the position
corresponding to the upper limit UL4. Thus, the heating 55 or the state of the intake air selector 127 corresponds to the
ability of the air conditioning apparatus is prevented from fresh air introduction, the controller 120B or the limiting
excessively increasing. block 132 in FIG. 13 limits the desired rotational speed of
the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to
Third Embodiment within the range equal to or smaller than the upper limit (for
example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of
FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment of this invention which the electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from
is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 except that a excessively rising.
controller 120B replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3. Fourth Embodiment
The controller 120B includes a microcomputer or a simi
lar device having a combination of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, 65 FIG. 14 shows a fourth embodiment of this invention
and an input/output port (an interface). The controller 120B which is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 except that
is electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve 104. a controller 120C replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3.
5,669,226
19 20
The controller 120C includes a microcomputer or a simil tively great. The position or the state of the intake air
iar device having a combination of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, selector 127 corresponds to the fresh air introduction. In this
and an input/output port (an interface). The controller 120C case, the pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven
is electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve 104, compressor 101 tends to rise. As previously described, when
a four-way valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature the desired mode of operation of the air conditioning appa
setting device 114, an inverter 121, an intake air selector ratus agrees with the cooling mode and the position or the
127, and a temperature sensor 129. The controller 120C state of the intake air selector 127 corresponds to the fresh
operates in accordance with a program stored in the internal air introduction, the controller 120C or the limiting block
ROM. According to the program, the controller 120C con 132A in FIG. 15 limits the desired rotational speed of the
trols the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve O motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to within
107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response the range equal to or smaller than the upper limit (for
to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set by the example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of
temperature setting device 114, the position or the state of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from
the intake air selector 127, and a temperature detected by the excessively rising.
temperature sensor 129. 15
FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller A description will now be given of the case where the air
120C. With reference to FIG. 15, a desired-speed calculating conditioning apparatus is operated in the heating mode
block 125 is followed by a limiting block 132A. The limiting under the following conditions. The heating load is rela
block 132A is informed of a desired rotational speed of the tively small. The position or the state of the intake air
motor of an electrically-driven compressor 101 which is selector 127 corresponds to the air recirculation (the indoor
given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In air introduction). In this case, the pressure at the inlet of the
addition, the limiting block 132A is informed of the position electrically-driven compressor 101 tends to rise. As previ
or the state of the intake air selector 127. Further, an ously described, when the desired mode of operation of the
operation-mode deciding block 124 informs the limiting air conditioning apparatus agrees with the heating mode and
block 132A of the result of a decision as to a desired mode 25
the position or the state of the intake air selector 127
of operation of an air conditioning apparatus. The limiting corresponds to the air recirculation (the indoor air
block 132A limits the upper side of the desired rotational introduction), the controller 120C or the limiting block 132A
speed in response to the position or the state of the intake air in FIG. 15 limits the desired rotational speed of the motor of
selector 127 and the result of the decision as to the desired the electrically-driven compressor 101 to within the range
mode of operation of the air conditioning apparatus. equal to or smaller than the upper limit (for example, 50Hz).
Specifically, when the desired mode of operation of the air Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of the electrically
conditioning apparatus agrees with a cooling mode and the driven compressor 101 is prevented from excessively rising.
position or the state of the intake air selector 127 corre Fifth Embodiment
sponds to fresh air introduction, the limiting block 132A sets
an upper limit of the desired rotational speed of the motor of 35 FIG. 16 shows a fifth embodiment of this invention which
the electrically-driven compressor 101. The upper limit is is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3–8 except that a
equal to, for example, 50 Hz. Also, when the desired mode controller 120D replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3, and
of operation of the air conditioning apparatus agrees with a that a temperature sensor 136 is additionally provided which
heating mode and the position or the state of the intake air detects the temperature of a motor winding of an
selector 127 corresponds to air recirculation (indoor air 40 electrically-driven compressor 101.
introduction), the limiting block 132A sets the upper limit of The controller 120D includes a microcomputer or a
the desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically similar device having a combination of a CPU, a ROM, a
driven compressor 101. In these upper-limit setting cases, RAM, and an input/output port (an interface). The controller
when the desired rotational speed of the motor of the 120D is electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve
electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to or lower than 45 104, afour-way valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature
the upper limit, the limiting block 132A holds the desired setting device 114, an inverter 121, a temperature sensor
rotational speed unchanged. In other words, the limiting 129, and the temperature sensor 136. The controller 120D
block 132Adoes not change the desired rotational speed. On operates in accordance with a program stored in the internal
the other hand, when the desired rotational speed of the ROM. According to the program, the controller 120D con
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 exceeds the 50 trols the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve
upper limit, the limiting block 132A sets or reduces the 107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response
desired rotational speed to the upper limit. In this way, the to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set by the
limiting block 132A limits the upper side of the desired temperature setting device 114, a temperature detected by
rotational speed. In other cases, the limiting block 132A the temperature sensor 129, and the temperature detected by
does not limit the desired rotational speed. A speed output 55 the temperature sensor 136.
ting block 126 is informed of the desired rotational speed of FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is 120D. With reference to FIG. 17, a desired-speedcalculating
given by the limiting block 132A. The speed outputting block 125 is followed by a limiting block 133. The limiting
block 126 outputs information of the desired rotational block 133 is informed of a desired rotational speed of the
speed to the inverter 121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
adjusted in response to the desired rotational speed so that given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In
the actual rotational speed of the motor of the electrically addition, the temperature sensor 136 informs the limiting
driven compressor 101 will be substantially equal to the block 133 of the temperature of the motor winding of the
desired rotational speed thereof. electrically-driven compressor 101. The limiting block 133
A description will now be given of the case where the air 65 limits the upper side of the desired rotational speed in
conditioning apparatus is operated in the cooling mode response to the temperature of the motor winding of the
under the following conditions. The cooling load is rela electrically-driven compressor 101. Specifically, the limiting
5,669,226
21 22
block 133 calculates an upper limit of the desired rotational increases in accordance with the rise in the pressure at the
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 inlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101. As previ
from the temperature of the motor winding of the ously described, the controller 120D or the limiting block
electrically-driven compressor 101. As shown in FIG. 18, 133 in FIG. 17 limits the desired rotational speed of the
the calculated upper limit is equal to a highest preset motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 to within
rotational speed UL11 when the temperature of the motor the range equal to or smaller than the upper limit (for
winding of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of
or lower than a first preset temperature point T21. The the electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from
calculated upper limitfalls from the highest preset rotational excessively rising. In addition, the temperature of the motor
speed UL11 to a lowest preset rotational speed UL12 as the 10 winding of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is pre
temperature of the motor winding of the electrically-driven vented from excessively increasing.
compressor 101 rises from the first preset temperature point Sixth Embodiment
T21 to a second preset temperature point T22. The calcu
lated upper limit is equal to the lowest preset rotational FIG. 19 shows a sixth embodiment of this invention
speed UL12 when the temperature of the motor winding of 15 which is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 except that
the electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to or higher a controller 120E replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3, and
than the second preset temperature point T22. The second that a temperature sensor 137 is additionally provided which
present temperature point T22 is equal to, for example, 120° detects the temperature of a drive portion of an inverter 121.
C. The lowest preset rotational speed UL12 is equal to, for The drive portion of the inverter 121 includes, for example,
example, 50 Hz. When the desired rotational speed of the 20 transistors.
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to The controller 120E includes a microcomputer or a simi
or lower than the upper limit, the limiting block 133 holds lar device having a combination of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM,
the desired rotational speed unchanged. In other words, the and an input/output port (an interface). The controller 120E
limiting block 133 does not change the desired rotational is electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve 104,
speed. On the other hand, when the desired rotational speed 25 a four-way valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature
of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 setting device 114, the inverter 121, a temperature sensor
exceeds the upper limit, the limiting block 133 sets or 129, and the temperature sensor 137. The controller 120E
reduces the desired rotational speed to the upper limit. In this operates in accordance with a program stored in the internal
way, the limiting block 133 limits the upper side of the ROM. According to the program, the controller 120E con
desired rotational speed. A speed outputting block 126 is trols the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve
informed of the desired rotational speed of the motor of the 107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response
electrically-driven compressor 101 which is given by the to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set by the
limiting block 133. The speed outputting block 126 outputs temperature setting device 114, a temperature detected by
information of the desired rotational speed to the inverter the temperature sensor 129, and the temperature detected by
121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is adjusted in response to 35 the temperature sensor 137.
the desired rotational speed so that the actual rotational FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 120E. With reference to FIG. 20, a desired-speed calculating
will be substantially equal to the desired rotational speed block 125 is followed by a limiting block 134. The limiting
thereof. block 134 is informed of the desired rotational speed of the
A description will now be given of the case where the air motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
conditioning apparatus is operated in the cooling mode given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In
under the following conditions. The cooling load is rela addition, the temperature sensor 137 informs the limiting
tively great. The position or the state of an intake air selector block 134 of the temperature of the drive portion of the
127 corresponds to fresh air introduction. In this case, the inverter 121. The limiting block 134 limits the upper side of
pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor 45 the desired rotational speedin response to the temperature of
101 tends to rise. Generally, the temperature of the motor the drive portion of the inverter 121. Specifically, the lim
winding of the electrically-driven compressor 101 increases iting block 134 calculates an upper limit of the desired
in accordance with the rise in the pressure at the inlet of the rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
electrically-driven compressor 101. As previously compressor 101 from the temperature of the drive portion of
described, the controller 120D or the limiting block 133 in 50 the inverter 121. As shown in FIG. 21, the calculated upper
FIG. 17 limits the desired rotational speed of the motor of limitis equal to a highest preset rotational speed UL21 when
the electrically-driven compressor 101 to within the range the temperature of the drive portion of the inverter 121 is
equal to or smaller than the upper limit (for example, 50Hz). equal to or lower than a first preset temperature point T31.
Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of the electrically The calculated upper limit falls from the highest preset
driven compressor 101 is prevented from excessively rising. 55 rotational speed UL21 to a lowest preset rotational speed
In addition, the temperature of the motor winding of the UL22 as the temperature of the drive portion of the inverter
electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from exces 121 rises from the first preset temperature point T31 to a
sively increasing. second preset temperature point T32. The calculated upper
A description will now be given of the case where the air limit is equal to the lowest preset rotational speed UL22
conditioning apparatus is operated in the heating mode when the temperature of the drive portion of the inverter 121
under the following conditions. The heating load is rela is equal to or higher than the second presettemperature point
tively small. Air in a vehicle interior is sufficiently warm. T32. The second present temperature point T32 is equal to,
The position or the state of the intake air selector 127 for example, 120° C. The lowest preset rotational speed
corresponds to air recirculation (indoor air introduction). In UL22 is equal to, for example, 50 Hz. When the desired
this case, the pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven 65 rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
compressor 101 tends to rise. Generally, the temperature of compressor 101 is equal to or lower than the upper limit, the
the motor winding of the electrically-driven compressor 101 limiting block 134 holds the desired rotational speed
5,669,226
23 24
unchanged. In other words, the limiting block 134 does not a controller 120F replaces the controller 120 of FIG. 3, and
change the desired rotational speed. On the other hand, when that a pressure sensor 139 is additionally provided which
the desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically detects the pressure at the outlet of an electrically-driven
driven compressor 101 exceeds the upper limit, the limiting compressor 101.
block 134 sets or reduces the desired rotational speed to the The controller 120F includes a microcomputer or a simi
upper limit. In this way, the limiting block 134 limits the
upper side of the desired rotational speed. Aspeed outputting lar device having a combination of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM,
and an input/output port (an interface). The controller 120F
block 126 is informed of the desired rotational speed of the
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is isa four-way electrically connected to a refrigerant throttle valve 104,
valve 107, a mix actuator 123, a temperature
given by the limiting block 134. The speed outputting block 10 setting device 114, an inverter 121, a temperature sensor
126 outputs information of the desired rotational speed to 129, and the pressure sensor 139. The controller 120F
the inverter 121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is adjusted in operates in accordance with a program stored in the internal
response to the desired rotational speed so that the actual
rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven ROM. trols
According to the program, the controller 120F con
the refrigerant throttle valve 104, the four-way valve
compressor 101 will be substantially equal to the desired 107, the mix actuator 123, and the inverter 121 in response
rotational speed thereof. 15
to a desired temperature (a setting temperature) set by the
A description will now be given of the case where the air temperature setting device 114, a temperature detected by
conditioning apparatus is operated in the cooling mode the temperature sensor 129, and the pressure detected by the
under the following conditions. The cooling load is rela pressure sensor 139.
tively great. The position or the state of an intake air selector FIG. 23 is a flow diagram of operation of the controller
127 corresponds to fresh air introduction. In this case, the 20 120F. With reference to FIG. 23, a desired-speed calculating
pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor block 125 is followed by a limiting block 135. The limiting
101 tends to rise. Generally, the load applied to the inverter
121 by the electrically-driven compressor 101 increases in block 135 is informed of the desired rotational speed of the
motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
accordance with the rise in the pressure at the inlet of the given by the desired-speed calculating block 125. In
electrically-driven compressor 101. A drive current fed to 25 addition, the pressure sensor 139 informs the limiting block
the electrically-driven compressor 101 from the inverter 121 135 of the pressure at the outlet of the electrically-driven
increases as the load on the inverter 121 increases.
Accordingly, the temperature of the drive portion of the of compressor 101. The limiting block135 limits the upper side
inverter 121 increases in accordance with the rise in the the desired rotational speed in response to the pressure at
the
pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor 30 Specifically, outlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101.
101. As previously described, the controller 120E or the the limiting block 135 calculates an upper limit
limiting block 134 in FIG. 20 limits the desired rotational electrically-drivenrotational
of the desired speed of the motor of the
compressor 101 from the pressure at the
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101
to within the range equal to or smaller than the upper limit outlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101. As shown
(for example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet in FIG. 24, the calculated upper limit is equal to a highest
of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from 35 preset rotational speed UL31 when the pressure at the outlet
excessively rising. In addition, the temperature of the drive of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is equal to or
portion of the inverter 121 is prevented from excessively lower than a first preset pressure point P1. The calculated
increasing. upper limit falls from the highest preset rotational speed
A description will now be given of the case where the air UL31 to a lowest preset rotational speed UL32 as the
conditioning apparatus is operated in the heating mode pressure at the outlet of the electrically-driven compressor
under the following conditions. The heating load is rela 101 rises from the first preset pressure point P1 to a second
tively small. Air in a vehicle interior is sufficiently warm. preset pressure point P2. The calculated upper limit is equal
The position or the state of the intake air selector 127 to the lowest preset rotational speed UL32 when the pressure
comresponds to air recirculation (indoor air introduction). In at the outlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is
this case, the pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven 45 equal to or higher than the second preset pressure point P2.
compressor 101 tends to rise. Generally, the load applied to The second present pressure point P2 is equal to, for
the inverter 121 by the electrically-driven compressor 101 example, 20 kgf/cm. The lowest preset rotational speed
increases in accordance with the rise in the pressure at the UL32 is equal to, for example, 50 Hz. When the desired
inlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101. A drive rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
current fed to the electrically-driven compressor 101 from 50 compressor 101 is equal to or lower than the upper limit, the
the inverter 121 increases as the load on the inverter 121 limiting block 135 holds the desired rotational speed
increases. Accordingly, the temperature of the drive portion unchanged. In other words, the limiting block 135 does not
of the inverter 121 increases in accordance with the rise in change the desired rotational speed. On the other hand, when
the pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor the desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically
101. As previously described, the controller 120E or the 55 driven compressor 101 exceeds the upper limit, the limiting
limiting block 134 in FIG. 20 limits the desired rotational block 135 sets or reduces the desired rotational speed to the
speed of the motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 upper limit. In this way, the limiting block 135 limits the
to within the range equal to or smaller than the upper limit upper side of the desired rotational speed. Aspeed outputting
(for example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet block 126 is informed of the desired rotational speed of the
of the electrically-driven compressor 101 is prevented from : motor of the electrically-driven compressor 101 which is
excessively rising. In addition, the temperature of the drive given by the limiting block 135. The speed outputting block
portion of the inverter 121 is prevented from excessively 126 outputs information of the desired rotational speed to
increasing. the inverter 121. Accordingly, the inverter 121 is adjusted in
Seventh Embodiment response to the desired rotational speed so that the actual
65 rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven
FIG. 22 shows a seventh embodiment of this invention compressor 101 will be substantially equal to the desired
which is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3–8 except that rotational speed thereof.
5,669,226
26
A description will now be given of the case where the air an inverter connected to the compressor for driving the
conditioning apparatus is operated in the cooling mode compressor at a variable speed corresponding to a
under the following conditions. The cooling load is rela desired rotational speed;
tively great. The position or the state of an intake air selector third means for calculating a target temperature related to
127 corresponds to fresh air introduction. In this case, the the heat exchanger in response to the desired tempera
pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven compressor ture set by the first means;
101 tends to rise. Generally, the pressure at the outlet of the
electrically-driven compressor 101 increases in accordance fourth means for calculating a difference between the
with the rise in the pressure at the inlet thereof. As previ temperature detected by the second means and the
ously described, in response to the pressure at the outlet of 10 target temperature calculated by the third means;
the electrically-driven compressor 101, the controller 120F fifth means for calculating a variation in the temperature
or the limiting block 135 in FIG. 23 limits the desired detected by the second means for every given period;
rotational speed of the motor of the electrically-driven sixth means for calculating a corrective rotational speed
compressor 101 to within the range equal to or smaller than from the temperature difference calculated by the
the upper limit (for example, 50 Hz). Accordingly, the 15
fourth means and the temperature variation calculated
pressure at the outlet of the electrically-driven compressor
101 is prevented from excessively rising. by the fifth means for every given period;
A description will now be given of the case where the air seventh means for calculating a sum of a current desired
conditioning apparatus is operated in the heating mode rotational speed of the compressor and the corrective
under the following conditions. The heating load is rela 20 rotational speed calculated by the sixth means for every
tively small. Air in a vehicle interior is sufficiently warm. given period, and for setting the calculated sum as a
The position or the state of the intake air selector 127 new desired rotational speed of the compressor for
corresponds to air recirculation (indoor air introduction). In every given period; and
this case, the pressure at the inlet of the electrically-driven eighth means for informing the inverter of the new desired
compressor 101 tends to rise. Generally, the pressure at the 25 rotational speed of the compressor which is set by the
outlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101 increases in seventh means.
accordance with the rise in the pressure at the inlet thereof. 2. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 1,
As previously described, in response to the pressure at the further comprising ninth means for setting a desired flow
outlet of the electrically-driven compressor 101, the con rate of air discharged into the vehicle interior, and tenth
troller 120F or the limiting block 135 in FIG. 23 limits the 30 means for limiting an upper side of the new desired rota
desired rotational speed of the motor of the electrically tional speed of the compressor which is set by the seventh
driven compressor 101 to within the range equal to or means in response to the desired flow rate set by the ninth
smaller than the upper limit (for example, 50 Hz). means or in response to an actual flow rate.
Accordingly, the pressure at the outlet of the electrically 3. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 1,
driven compressor 101 is prevented from excessively rising. 35 further comprising ninth means for selectively introducing
Other Embodiments air from the vehicle interior or air from a vehicle exterior,
and tenth means for limiting an upper side of the new desired
An eighth embodiment of this invention corresponds to a rotational speed of the compressor which is set by the
combination of the first embodiment and the third embodi seventh means in response to whether the ninth means
ment thereof. A ninth embodiment of this invention corre introduces air from the vehicle interior or air from the
sponds to a combination of the second embodiment and the vehicle exterior.
third embodiment thereof. A tenth embodiment of this 4. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 3,
invention corresponds to a combination of the second further comprising eleventh means for deciding whether
embodiment, the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment, cooling operation or heating operation is currently executed,
the fifth embodiment, the sixth embodiment, and the seventh 45 and twelfth means responsive to a result of said deciding by
embodiment thereof. An eleventh embodiment of this inven the eleventh means for limiting the upper side of the new
tion corresponds to a combination of at least two of the first desired rotational speed of the compressor which is set by
embodiment, the second embodiment, the third the seventh means in response to whether the cooling
embodiment, the fourth embodiment, the fifth embodiment, operation or the heating operation is currently executed.
the sixth embodiment, and the seventh embodiment thereof. 50 5. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 1,
In each of the first embodiment, the second embodiment, further comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature
the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment, the fifth of a motor winding of the compressor, and tenth means for
embodiment, the sixth embodiment, and the seventh limiting an upper side of the new desired rotational speed of
embodiment of this invention, the setting temperature given the compressor which is set by the seventh means in
by the temperature setting device 114 may be replaced by 55 response to the temperature detected by the ninth means.
another parameter such as a desired temperature of air 6. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 1,
discharged into the vehicle interior or a desired thermal load. further comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature
What is claimed is: of a drive portion of the inverter, and tenth means for
1. An air conditioning apparatus for an electric vehicle, limiting an upper side of the new desired rotational speed of
comprising: the compressor which is set by the seventh means in
an electrically-driven compressor; response to the temperature detected by the ninth means.
first means for setting a desired temperature related to one 7. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 1,
of a temperature of air discharged into a vehicle interior further comprising ninth means for detecting a pressure at an
and a temperature within the vehicle interior; outlet of the compressor, and tenth means for limiting an
a heat exchanger; 65 upper side of the new desired rotational speed of the
second means for detecting a temperature related to the compressor which is set by the seventh means in response to
heat eXchanger; the pressure detected by the ninth means.
5,669,226
27 28
8. An air conditioning apparatus comprising: a compres air from an air-conditioned space or air from an exterior of
SOr; the air-conditioned space, and tenth means for limiting an
a heat exchanger; upper side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the
first means including refrigerant for connecting the com seventh means in response to whether the ninth means
pressor and the heat exchanger to allow the refrigerant introduces air from the air-conditioned space or air from the
to flow through the compressor and the heat exchanger; exterior of the air-conditioned space.
second means for providing a target temperature of air 12. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 11,
downstream of the heat exchanger; further comprising eleventh means for deciding whether
third means for detecting an actual temperature of air cooling operation or heating operation is currently executed,
downstream of the heat exchanger; 10 and twelfth means responsive to a result of said deciding by
fourth means for calculating a difference between the the eleventh means for limiting the upper side of the desired
target temperature provided by the second means and rotational speed calculated by the seventh means in response
the actual temperature detected by the third means; to whether the cooling operation or the heating operation is
currently executed.
fifth means for detecting a variation in the actual tem 13. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 9,
perature detected by the third means; and 15
further comprising ninth means for detecting a temperature
sixth means for controlling a rotational speed of the of a motor winding of the compressor, and tenth means for
compressor in response to the temperature difference limiting an upper side of the desired rotational speed cal
calculated by the fourth means and the temperature culated by the seventh means in response to the temperature
variation detected by the fifth means. detected by the ninth means.
9. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim. 8, 20 14. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 9,
wherein the sixth means comprises seventh means for cal further comprising an inverter provided in the eighth means
culating a desired rotational speed of the compressor from for driving the compressor at a rotational speed correspond
the temperature difference calculated by the fourth means ing to the desired rotational speed thereof, ninth means for
and the temperature variation detected by the fifth means, 25 detecting a temperature of a drive portion of the inverter, and
and eighth means for controlling an actual rotational speed tenth means for limiting an upper side of the desired
of the compressor in accordance with the desired rotational rotational speed in response to the temperature detected by
speed calculated by the seventh means. the ninth means.
10. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 9. 15. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 9,
further comprising ninth means for setting a desired flow further comprising ninth means for detecting a pressure at an
rate of discharged air, and tenth means for limiting an upper outlet of the compressor, and tenth means for limiting an
side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the seventh upper side of the desired rotational speed calculated by the
means in response to the desired flow rate set by the ninth seventh means in response to the pressure detected by the
means or in response to an actual flow rate. ninth means.
11. An air conditioning apparatus as recited in claim 9,
further comprising ninth means for selectively introducing

Air Conditioning Apparatus For A Vehicle

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Air Conditioning Apparatus For A Vehicle

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

US005669226A

United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 5,669,226

20 113 127 114

T11 T12 T13 T14

(+1.5~ + 3.0) (-3) (+3) (+6) (+10)

120B 13 127 114

20D 13 127 114

You might also like