Multi-variable extremum seeking control for high temperature heat pump system incorporating double refrigerant injection

Abstract

The use of refrigerant injection technology to enhance the heating efficiency of heat pumps with larger temperature lifts is becoming more common. Heat pumps with double refrigerant injection loops have better energy efficiency than traditional ones with single refrigerant injection loops. A multi-variable extremum seeking control (ESC) strategy for a high-temperature heat pump system with double refrigerant injection technology is proposed in this study. A Modelica-based dynamic simulation model of the considering system is established in Dymola, and a co-simulation with the proposed ESC strategy is built to validate the effectiveness of this control strategy to minimize power consumption. The strategy uses compressor power consumption as the feedback. The effective throttling area of the upper and lower EEVs is adjusted by a PI controller to manipulate the low and high-pressure vapor injection pressures. Three scenarios were simulated for control: stable, step curve, and freely variable heat source temperature conditions. The simulation results demonstrate that the multi-variable ESC has excellent convergence performance and confirm its effectiveness in searching for the optimal operating point.