Devices, systems, and methods for controlling liquid levels using isolation resistance
AssigneeTrane International Inc.
InventorsEric S. Mlsna, Jonathan Rollier
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for reducing leakage current in compressors, such as for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/HVACR) systems. Several embodiments include a sensor for measuring the isolation resistance of an enclosure of a compressor. The sensor can be electronically coupled to a controller that is configured to activate a heating element mechanically coupled to the enclosure when the controller determines that the isolation resistance measured by the sensor falls indicates that the compressor is at risk of faulting. Activating the heating element causes the refrigerant mixed within the oil to evaporate, which lowers the liquid level within the compressor.
Claims17
A method comprising:
- obtaining a first measurement comprising a first isolation resistance of an enclosure, wherein the first isolation resistance is measured between a power unit and an outer shell of the enclosure;
- using the first isolation resistance to determine a liquid level of one or more liquids contained within the enclosure;
- determining that the first isolation resistance indicative of the liquid level in the enclosure falls below a predetermined threshold;
- and
- in response to the determination, activating a heating element to reduce the liquid level within the enclosure.
An apparatus comprising:
- a memory;
- and
- a processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is configured to:
- obtain a measurement comprising an isolation resistance of an enclosure, wherein the isolation resistance is measured between a power unit and an outer shell of the enclosure;
- use the isolation resistance to determine a liquid level of one or more liquids contained within the enclosure;
- determine that the isolation resistance of the liquid level in the enclosure falls below a predetermined threshold;
- and
- in response to the determination, activate a heating element to reduce the liquid level within the enclosure, wherein the heating element is in mechanical contact with the enclosure.
A system comprising:
- an enclosure;
- a heating element in mechanical contact with the enclosure;
- and
- an apparatus comprising:
- a memory;
- and
- a processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is configured to:
- obtain a measurement comprising an isolation resistance of the enclosure, wherein the isolation resistance is measured between a power unit and an outer shell of the enclosure;
- use the isolation resistance to determine a liquid level of one or more liquids contained within the enclosure;
- determine that the isolation resistance indicative of the liquid level in the enclosure falls below a predetermined threshold;
- and
- in response to the determination, activate the heating element to reduce the liquid level within the enclosure.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.