Energy Efficiency Improvements Using a Rule-Based Look Ahead Controller for Mobile Air Conditioning 2023-28-0009

The air conditioning systems is the second energy consumer in the vehicle behind the powertrain with global energy consumptions of a few Kilowatts. In the case of Electric vehicles (EV), its consumption becomes critical to increase the range or potentially reduce battery size, weight and cost. In areas where high temperatures, solar radiation and high humidity are common, vehicle occupants rely constantly on the performance of the air conditioning for comfort and safety. Therefore, the AC (Air Conditioning) system is an ideal target to improve efficiency without an impact on occupier wellbeing. These are competitive advantages that would increase customer satisfaction and revenue potential. In fact, research shows that customers are ready to pay a higher price for sustainable products. Furthermore it would reduce the environmental impact of both EV and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles

In this study, we present a ‘smart strategy’ to reduce energy consumption, by preemptively modifying the operational conditions and duty cycle of the AC compressor, by deploying a physics-based model in the loop simulation. By using a uniquely developed ‘scenario look-ahead technology’, energy consumption of the AC compressor is reduced over 10%, depending on the drive cycle.

Due to the generic, supplier, and refrigerant agnostic nature of the controller, it also has potential to be applied to heat-pump and low GWP systems.