In this video, Patrick Heath, strategic marketing manager at Microchip describes a new, comprehensive Air Conditioner reference design that can be used for both stand-alone and split-type air conditioners. Because of the total system solution approach, this Reference Design creates a complete air conditioner design and so it reduces your development cost and project risk. The circuit will help manufacturers achieve higher seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER) and includes Power Factor Correction (PFC), enabling electrical regulations to be met.
It uses a dual-core dsPIC33CH128MP208 Digital Signal Controller (DSC) device to provide many advantages over similar systems. The design can drive either Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) or the newer Interior Permanent Magnet (IPM) motors using Field Orientated Control (FOC). The reference design also implements advanced motor control algorithms, including Initial Position Detection (IPD), wind-milling, Maximum Torque per Amp (MTPA), field or Flux Weakening (FW), stall detection and recovery, as well as torque and voltage compensation. The software also implements variable speed motor drive algorithms that enable continuous temperature regulation and higher efficiency than fixed-speed operation.
Block Diagram of Air Conditioner Reference Design
The design includes an interleaved 1.8kW PFC circuit to meet regulatory requirements. The design supports up to four temperature sensors, and can connect to several external ACIMs, a stepper motor or expansion values for extended air conditioner systems.
Full source code, a user's guide with schematics and an IPM motor tuning guide are available. The board is available for demonstration or loan to customers for their A/C development by contacting the local Microchip office. More information can be found at www.microchip.com/aircon.
Enter your details below for a chance to win a Microchip dsPICDEM™ MCHV-3 Development Board (DM330023-3) that enables rapid evaluation and development of a wide variety of motor control applications using a dsPIC® Digital Signal Controller (DSC). Click here for terms and conditions.