U.S. patent application number 17/614782 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-21 for vacuum pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of an hvac-r system, adapter for a vacuum pump, and a method of performing a vacuum test on an hvac-r system.
This patent application is currently assigned to ASPEN PUMPS LIMITED. The applicant listed for this patent is ASPEN PUMPS LIMITED. Invention is credited to Chris Forshaw, Merlin Milner.
Application Number | 20220228597 17/614782 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220228597 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Milner; Merlin ; et
al. |
July 21, 2022 |
VACUUM PUMP FOR USE DURING MAINTENANCE OR COMMISSIONING OF AN
HVAC-R SYSTEM, ADAPTER FOR A VACUUM PUMP, AND A METHOD OF
PERFORMING A VACUUM TEST ON AN HVAC-R SYSTEM
Abstract
The present application provides a vacuum pump (15) for use
during maintenance or commissioning of an HVAC-R system (1). The
vacuum pump (15) has a pump (17) having a pump intake (22) for
connection to the HVAC-R system (1), in particular one or more of a
high pressure service port (14) and a low pressure service port
(13) of the HVAC-R system (1). The vacuum pump (15) also includes a
communications unit (19) that is configured to connect to a mobile
communications network. The vacuum pump (15) also includes a
pressure sensor arranged to detect a pressure in the HVAC-R system
(1). The vacuum pump (15) also includes a control unit (18)
configured to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor (21),
control operation of the pump (17), and communicate with a remote
device via the communication unit (19) and the mobile
communications network. In examples, the remote device (20) may be
a mobile phone or a tablet computer, or any device that can connect
to a mobile communications network. Therefore, the vacuum pump (15)
can remotely communicate updates to the remote device (20) over a
mobile communications network, and can optionally also receive
instructions or requests from the remote device (20) over a mobile
communications network.
Inventors: |
Milner; Merlin; (Hailsham
East Sussex, GB) ; Forshaw; Chris; (Hailsham East
Sussex, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ASPEN PUMPS LIMITED |
Hailsham East Sussex |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
ASPEN PUMPS LIMITED
Hailsham East Sussex
GB
|
Appl. No.: |
17/614782 |
Filed: |
May 20, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
May 20, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2020/051223 |
371 Date: |
November 29, 2021 |
International
Class: |
F04D 27/00 20060101
F04D027/00; F25B 41/40 20060101 F25B041/40; F25B 41/24 20060101
F25B041/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 30, 2019 |
GB |
1907682.7 |
Claims
1. A vacuum pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of an
HVAC-R system, the vacuum pump comprising: a pump having a pump
intake for connection to the HVAC-R system, a pressure sensor
arranged to detect a pressure in the HVAC-R system, a
communications unit configured to connect to a mobile
communications network, and a control unit configured to: receive
pressure data from the pressure sensor; control operation of the
pump, and communicate with a remote device via the communications
unit and the mobile communications network.
2. The vacuum pump of claim 1, wherein the pressure sensor is
arranged to detect a vacuum pressure at the pump intake.
3. The vacuum pump of claim 1, wherein the pressure sensor is
configured for connection to the HVAC-R system at a different
location to the connection between the pump and the HVAC-R
system.
4. The vacuum pump of claim 1, further comprising an electrically
actuatable valve arranged to control connection of the pressure
sensor to one or more of the pump intake and the HVAC-R system at a
different location to the connection between the pump and the
HVAC-R system, and wherein the control unit is configured to
control operation of the electrically actuatable valve.
5. (canceled)
6. The vacuum pump of claim 1, wherein the control unit is
configured to control operation of the pump to perform a vacuum
test.
7. The vacuum pump of claim 6, wherein the control unit comprises a
memory for storing vacuum test instructions, and wherein the
control unit is configured to retrieve the vacuum test instructions
from the memory to perform the vacuum test.
8. The vacuum pump of claim 6, wherein the communications unit is
configured to receive the vacuum test instructions from the remote
device, and wherein the control unit is configured to control
operation of the pump in accordance with the vacuum test
instructions received by the communications unit.
9. The vacuum pump of claim 1, further comprising an electric motor
arranged to drive the pump, and a power sensor arranged to detect a
power usage of the electric motor, wherein the control unit is
arranged to receive power data from the power sensor, and wherein
the control unit is configured to monitor power usage of the
electric motor.
10. The vacuum pump of claim 1, further comprising an electrically
actuatable valve arranged to control a connection between the pump
and the HVAC-R system, and wherein the control unit is configured
to control operation of the electrically actuatable valve.
11. (canceled)
12. The vacuum pump of claim 1, wherein the pump intake is
configured for connection to a service port of the HVAC-R system,
for example a high pressure service port or a low pressure service
port.
13. An adapter for a vacuum pump for use during maintenance or
commissioning of an HVAC-R system, the adapter comprising: a
connector for connecting to the HVAC-R system; a pressure sensor
arranged to detect a pressure in the HVAC-R system during use; a
communications unit configured to connect to a mobile
communications network; and a control unit configured to: receive
pressure data from the pressure sensor; and communicate with a
remote device via the communications unit and the mobile
communications network.
14. The adapter of claim 13, further comprising an electrically
actuatable valve disposed to control the connection between the
adapter and the HVAC-R system, the control unit being configured to
operate the electrically actuatable valve.
15. The vacuum pump of claim 1 or the adapter of claim 13, wherein
the communications unit is configured to connect to the mobile
communications network using one or more of GSM, LTE, UMTS, WiMax,
LTE-A, 5G mobile communications network, and/or a Low Power Wide
Area Network (LPWAN) radio technology, for example a Narrowband IoT
network.
16. A method of performing a vacuum test on an HVAC-R system, the
method comprising: connecting a pump intake of a vacuum pump to the
HVAC-R system, operating the vacuum pump to evacuate fluid from the
HVAC-R system, detecting a pressure in the HVAC-R system by a
pressure sensor, and communicating with a remote device via a
mobile communications network.
17. (canceled)
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising detecting a power
usage of an electric motor of the vacuum pump.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising controlling the
vacuum pump to perform a vacuum test on the HVAC-R system.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein performing a vacuum test
comprises: operating the vacuum pump to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R
system, monitoring the detected pressure in the HVAC-R system, and
stopping operation of the vacuum pump once the detected vacuum
pressure reaches a threshold.
21. The method of claim 20, further comprising isolating the vacuum
pump from the HVAC-R system once the detected vacuum pressure
reaches a threshold.
23. The method of claim 20, further comprising monitoring the
detected fluid pressure after stopping operation of the vacuum
pump.
24. The method of claim 19, further comprising communicating data
of the vacuum test with the remote device via the mobile
communications network, for example a status of the vacuum test or
a result of the vacuum test.
Description
[0001] This invention relates to a vacuum pump for use during
maintenance or commissioning of an HVAC-R system, for example an
air conditioning system. This invention also relates to an adapter
for a vacuum pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of an
HVAC-R system. This invention also relates to a method of
performing a vacuum test on an HVAC-R system.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Currently, during maintenance/commissioning of a heating,
ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC-R) system a
technician will perform a vacuum test on the HVAC-R system. This
involves connecting a vacuum pump to the HVAC-R system and using
the vacuum pump to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R system. The vacuum
pump is used to remove all fluids from the HVAC-R system, including
air, remnant refrigeration fluids, and moisture.
[0003] It is known to provide analogue or digital vacuum gauges to
monitor the vacuum level in the HVAC-R system. When performing a
vacuum test, the detected vacuum level must reach a threshold level
for a pre-determined period of time to demonstrate that the HVAC-R
system is sealed, and that sufficient fluid has been removed from
the HVAC-R system. Once the vacuum test is complete, the system can
be charged (filled) with refrigerant fluid for operation.
[0004] It is also known to provide digital vacuum gauges with
Bluetooth connectivity to allow communication with an Application
on a mobile device.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] In accordance with the present disclosure there is provided
a vacuum pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of an
HVAC-R system, the vacuum pump comprising:
[0006] a pump having a pump intake for connection to the HVAC-R
system,
[0007] a pressure sensor arranged to detect a pressure in the
HVAC-R system,
[0008] a communications unit configured to connect to a mobile
communications network, and
[0009] a control unit configured to: [0010] receive pressure data
from the pressure sensor; [0011] control operation of the pump, and
[0012] communicate with a remote device via the communications unit
and the mobile communications network.
[0013] In some examples, the pressure sensor is arranged to detect
a vacuum pressure at the pump intake. In other examples, the
pressure sensor is configured for connection to the HVAC-R system
at a different location to the connection between the pump and the
HVAC-R system.
[0014] In preferred examples, the vacuum pump further comprises an
electrically actuatable valve arranged to control connection of the
pressure sensor to one or more of the pump intake and the HVAC-R
system at a different location to the connection between the pump
and the HVAC-R system, and wherein the control unit is configured
to control operation of the electrically actuatable valve.
Preferably, the electrically actuatable valve is biased to a closed
position.
[0015] The control unit may be configured to monitor the detected
pressure. The control unit may be configured to control operation
of the pump to perform a vacuum test. In some examples, the control
unit may comprise a memory for storing vacuum test instructions,
and the control unit may be configured to retrieve the vacuum test
instructions from the memory to perform the vacuum test. In other
examples, the communications unit may be configured to receive the
vacuum test instructions from the remote device, and the control
unit may be configured to control operation of the pump in
accordance with the vacuum test instructions received by the
communications unit.
[0016] The vacuum pump may further comprise an electric motor
arranged to drive the pump, and a power sensor arranged to detect a
power usage of the electric motor. In this example, the control
unit may be arranged to receive power data from the power sensor,
and the control unit may be configured to monitor power usage of
the electric motor.
[0017] The vacuum pump may further comprise an electrically
actuatable valve arranged to control a connection between the pump
and the HVAC-R system. The control unit may be configured to
control operation of the electrically actuatable valve. The
electrically actuatable valve is preferably biased to a closed
position.
[0018] The pump intake is preferably configured for connection to a
service port of the HVAC-R system, for example a high pressure
service port or a low pressure service port. In some examples, the
pump intake may be configured for connection to both the high
pressure service port and the low pressure service port of the
HVAC-R system.
[0019] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure
there is also provided an adapter for a vacuum pump for use during
maintenance or commissioning of an HVAC-R system, the adapter
comprising:
[0020] a connector for connecting to the HVAC-R system;
[0021] a pressure sensor arranged to detect a pressure in the
HVAC-R system during use;
[0022] a communications unit configured to connect to a mobile
communications network;
[0023] and
[0024] a control unit configured to: [0025] receive pressure data
from the pressure sensor; and [0026] communicate with a remote
device via the communications unit and the mobile communications
network.
[0027] The adapter preferably further comprises an electrically
actuatable valve disposed to control the connection between the
adapter and the HVAC-R system. The control unit is preferably
configured to operate the electrically actuatable valve.
[0028] The communications unit of the vacuum pump and/or the
communications unit of the adapter may is preferably configured to
connect to the mobile communications network using one or more of
GSM, LTE, UMTS, WiMax, LTE-A, 5G mobile communications network,
and/or a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) radio technology, for
example a Narrowband IoT network.
[0029] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure
there is also provided a method of performing a vacuum test on an
HVAC-R system, the method comprising:
[0030] connecting a pump intake of a vacuum pump to the HVAC-R
system,
[0031] operating the vacuum pump to evacuate fluid from the HVAC-R
system,
[0032] detecting a pressure in the HVAC-R system by a pressure
sensor, and
[0033] communicating with a remote device via a mobile
communications network.
[0034] The method may further comprise monitoring the detected
pressure. The method may further comprise detecting a power usage
of an electric motor of the vacuum pump. Preferably, the method may
comprise controlling the vacuum pump to perform a vacuum test on
the HVAC-R system.
[0035] In examples, the method of performing a vacuum test may
comprise:
[0036] operating the vacuum pump to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R
system,
[0037] monitoring the detected pressure in the HVAC-R system,
and
[0038] stopping operation of the vacuum pump once the detected
vacuum pressure reaches a threshold.
[0039] The method may further comprise isolating the vacuum pump
from the HVAC-R system once the detected vacuum pressure reaches a
threshold.
[0040] The method may further comprise monitoring the detected
fluid pressure after stopping operation of the vacuum pump.
[0041] The method may further comprise communicating data of the
vacuum test with the remote device via the mobile communications
network, for example a status of the vacuum test or a result of the
vacuum test.
[0042] It will be understood that any data processing, can be
performed by a device having one or more processors and a memory
including instructions to cause the one or more processors to
perform the data processing, such as to process the scan data to
generate the control data. The memory is typically a non-transient
computer-readable storage medium.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] Embodiments of the invention are further described
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0044] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an HVAC-R system;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example vacuum pump for
use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R system of
FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a further example vacuum
pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R
system of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a further example vacuum
pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R
system of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a further example vacuum
pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R
system of FIG. 1;
[0049] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a further example vacuum
pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R
system of FIG. 1;
[0050] FIG. 7 is a system diagram of the vacuum pump, including the
control unit.
[0051] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an adapter for a vacuum
pump for use during maintenance or commissioning of the HVAC-R
system of FIG. 1;
[0052] FIG. 9 is a system diagram of the adapter for a vacuum pump
of FIG. 8;
[0053] FIG. 10 is a method diagram of a vacuum test performed by
the vacuum pump of any of FIGS. 2 to 7, or the adapter for a vacuum
pump of FIGS. 8 and 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0054] As shown in FIG. 1, an HVAC-R system 1 includes a compressor
2, a condenser 3, an expansion valve 4, and an evaporator 5. Pipes
6 connect each of these components in a loop such that refrigerant
fluid can flow through each in turn, driven by the compressor
2.
[0055] The condenser 3 includes a coil of pipes 7 wound to create a
large surface area for heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid
and air surrounding the condenser 3. The evaporator 5 is similar,
having a coil of pipes 8 that create a large surface area for heat
exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the air surrounding the
evaporator 5. In a refrigerant or air conditioning system, the
evaporator 5 is disposed within the conditioned area, e.g. within a
house or refrigerated room, and the condenser 3 is disposed outside
of the conditioned area, e.g. outside of the house or refrigerated
room.
[0056] The compressor 2 may be any compressor of an HVAC-R system,
for example one of a reciprocating compressor, a rotary compressor,
a scroll compressor, a screw compressor or a centrifugal
compressor. The compressor 2 has an intake 9 and an outlet 10, and
drives refrigerant through the HVAC-R system 1 as described
hereinafter.
[0057] During operation, the compressor intake 9 receives
refrigerant fluid as a low pressure gas, and compresses the low
pressure gas into a high pressure gas. Compressing the gas to
increase the pressure will also increase the temperature of the
refrigerant. Therefore, at the compressor outlet 10 the refrigerant
fluid is a high pressure, high temperature gas.
[0058] After outlet from the compressor 2, the high pressure, high
temperature gas enters the condenser 3, which is a heat exchanger
located in an area with a lower temperature than the refrigerant
entering the condenser 3. In air conditioning or refrigeration
examples, the condenser 3 is located externally of the conditioned
area, for example outside of a building or outside of a
refrigerated area. As the refrigerant flows through the condenser
3, heat is lost from the high pressure, high temperature gas within
the condenser 3 to a surrounding area, and the refrigerant fluid
exits the condenser 3 as a high pressure liquid having a lower
temperature than upstream of the condenser 3. At this stage, the
refrigerant fluid is warm, but not as hot as upstream of the
condenser 3 because some heat has been lost in the condenser 3, and
the refrigerant fluid has condensed into a liquid.
[0059] Optionally, a receiver drier 11 is positioned downstream of
the condenser 3. The high pressure liquid passes through the
receiver drier 11. The receiver drier 11 contains extra refrigerant
fluid for the HVAC-R system 1, to account for changes due to small
leaks or temperature fluctuations. The receiver drier 11 may also
include a drying agent and a filter to remove contaminants from the
refrigerant fluid.
[0060] The high pressure liquid next passes through the expansion
valve 4. The expansion valve 4 typically includes a metered orifice
through which the refrigerant fluid must pass. The metered orifice
limits the rate at which the refrigerant fluid flows. As a result
of this, a large pressure drop is created across the metered
orifice. Therefore, as the refrigerant fluid passes through the
metered orifice the high pressure liquid quickly loses pressure.
The loss of pressure also cools the refrigerant fluid. Therefore,
after the expansion valve 4 the refrigerant fluid is at a cold
temperature and at a lower pressure, and is starting to evaporate
into a gas.
[0061] Immediately after the expansion valve 4 the cold refrigerant
fluid enters the evaporator 5. In air conditioning or refrigeration
examples, the evaporator 5 is typically disposed in an area to be
cooled or refrigerated, for example inside a building or a
refrigeration unit. Within the evaporator 5 the low temperature
refrigerant fluid is heated by absorbing heat from the surroundings
of the evaporator 5. On exit from the evaporator 5 the refrigerant
fluid has been evaporated and is a low pressure gas, which is still
cool but at a higher temperature than immediately upstream of the
evaporator 5 because it has absorbed heat from the surroundings of
the evaporator 5.
[0062] This low pressure gas is fed back to the compressor intake
9. In this way, the refrigerant fluid transfers heat from the
evaporator 5 to the condenser 3, and therefore from one area to
another, to cool the area where the evaporator 5 is located and/or
to heat the area where the condenser 3 is located.
[0063] It will be appreciated that the boiling point of the
refrigerant fluid is not the same as water or air. For example, the
boiling point of Ammonia (R717), a typical refrigerant, is -33.3
degrees Celsius. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the high
and low temperatures referred to in the description are relative,
and the refrigerant fluid can be used in the described manner to
efficiently transfer heat from the evaporator 5 to the condenser
3.
[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, in examples in which the HVAC-R system 1
is used to cool the area surrounding the evaporator 5, the HVAC-R
system 1 may further include a thermal expansion valve 12 for
controlling the metered orifice of the expansion valve 4. The
thermal expansion valve 12 is arranged to expand and contract
according to the temperature of the refrigerant fluid downstream of
the evaporator 5. In this way, the thermal expansion valve 12
expands or contracts according to the temperature of the
surroundings of the evaporator 5, which directly determines the
temperature of the refrigerant downstream of the evaporator 5. The
expanded/contracted state of the thermal expansion valve 12
controls the size of the metered orifice in the expansion valve 4,
so that the flow of refrigerant (and the cooling provided to the
surroundings of the evaporator 5) is proportionate to the
temperature of the surroundings of the evaporator 5. A smaller
metered orifice in the expansion valve 4 will create a lower
temperature refrigerant and provide more cooling to the area
surrounding the evaporator 5. In this example, a warmer refrigerant
downstream of the evaporator 5, indicated by relatively high
thermal expansion of the thermal expansion valve 12, indicates that
more cooling is required. Therefore, the thermal expansion valve 12
is configured to reduce the size of the metered orifice in response
to thermal expansion, and is configured to increase the size of the
metered orifice in response to thermal contraction.
[0065] To improve heat exchange at the evaporator 5 and/or at the
condenser 3, a fan may be provided to create a flow of air over the
coiled pipes 7, 8 of the evaporator 5 and/or the condenser 3.
[0066] As explained above, the pressure of the refrigerant fluid is
higher between the compressor outlet 10 and the expansion valve 4,
and lower between the expansion valve 4 and the compressor intake
9. Therefore, the HVAC-R system has a high pressure side and a low
pressure side.
[0067] Also shown in FIG. 1, a low pressure service port 13 is
provided between the evaporator 5 and the compressor intake 9,
where the refrigerant fluid is at low pressure. Similarly, a high
pressure service port 14 is provided between the condenser 3 (or
drier 11) and the expansion valve 4, where the refrigerant fluid is
at high pressure. The low pressure and high pressure service ports
13, 14 are provided for removing and adding refrigerant to the
HVAC-R system 1 during maintenance or commissioning, as explained
further hereinafter.
[0068] It will be appreciated that various HVAC-R systems may
include additional or alternative components or arrangements for
different applications. The apparatus described hereinafter, for
maintenance or commissioning of HVAC-R systems, can be used on any
HVAC-R system that includes a high pressure side and a low pressure
side, and includes at least one service port (high pressure side
and/or low pressure side) for removal or addition of refrigerant
fluid to the HVAC-R system. As described above, a typical HVAC-R
system 1 will include a high pressure service port 14 and a low
pressure service port 13.
[0069] During maintenance and commissioning of an HVAC-R system 1
various procedures may be carried out, including a vacuum test. To
perform a vacuum test, a vacuum pump is used to extract gas (e.g.
air) and residual fluids (e.g. moisture) from the HVAC-R system
after maintenance, and/or to test the seals. It is performed after
installation or maintenance where parts have been changed or the
system opened, and ensures that the system is empty before
recharging with refrigerant.
[0070] FIGS. 2 to 6 illustrate the vacuum pump 15 attached to the
HVAC-R system 1 for a vacuum test. The vacuum pump 15 includes a
pump 17 for drawing fluid through a pump intake 22 that is
attachable to the HVAC-R system 1 via one or both of the high
pressure service port 14 and the low pressure service port 13, as
described further hereinafter. The pump intake 22 has a
connector.
[0071] In different examples, the pump 17 may be oil-less or oil
lubricated. The pump 17 may comprise a positive displacement vacuum
pump, or a reciprocating piston vacuum pump, or a diaphragm pump,
or a rotary vane pump, or a rotary screw pump. Preferably, the pump
17 comprises an oil-sealed rotary vane vacuum pump, which are
particularly suited to HVAC-R applications.
[0072] The vacuum pump 15 also has a control unit 18 that controls
operation of the pump 17. The vacuum pump 15 also includes a
communications unit 19 configured to communicate with a remote
device 20 over a mobile communications network. The control unit 18
is in data communication with the communications unit 19. In
preferred examples, the communications unit 19 includes a receiver
for receiving data, for example instructions, from the remote
device 20. The communications unit 19 may comprise a transceiver
for receiving data, for example instructions, from the remote
device 20, and for transmitting data to the remote device 20. In
some examples, the communications unit may further comprise an
additional transmitter and/or receiver, for example a Bluetooth
transmitter and/or receiver. In examples, the remote device 20 may
be a mobile phone or a tablet computer, or any device that can
connect to a mobile communications network.
[0073] In preferred examples, the communications unit 19 comprises
a transceiver configured to communicate on a mobile communications
network, for example a GSM, LTE, UMTS, WiMax, LTE-A, and/or 5G
mobile communications network, a Low Power Wide Area Network
(LPWAN) radio technology, for example a Narrowband IoT network. The
communications unit 19 may be configured to communicate with a
remote device 20 via the communications unit 19 using the mobile
communications network. The communications unit 19 communicates
data to the remote device 20, for example using SMS format.
[0074] Advantageously, communicating with the remote device 20 over
a mobile communications network removes the need for the remote
device 20 to be proximate to the vacuum pump 15. For example,
Bluetooth connectivity is limited in range, whereas using a mobile
communications network allows the operator to be further removed
from the vacuum pump 15, which may be advantageous during long
vacuum tests or when the operator needs to investigate parts of the
HVAC-R system that are removed from the position of the vacuum pump
15.
[0075] In preferred examples, the vacuum pump 15 also includes a
sensor 21 that is arranged to detect a pressure. In a preferred
example, the sensor is a pressure sensor 21 arranged to detect a
pressure in the HVAC-R system 21, as shown in FIG. 2. The pressure
sensor 21 may be a vacuum pressure sensor. The control unit 18 is
configured to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor 21.
The control unit 18 may be configured to operate the pump 17 in
accordance with data received from the pressure sensor 21, as
described further hereinafter.
[0076] In alternative examples, the pressure sensor 21 may be
provided separately to the vacuum pump 15. In this example, the
pressure sensor 21 is in data communication with the control unit
18 via a wire or via a wireless connection to provide pressure data
to the control unit 18. For example, the communications unit 19 may
further comprise a Bluetooth receiver for receiving pressure data
from a separate pressure sensor 21 that includes a Bluetooth
transmitter. In this way, the pressure sensor 21 may be located
away from the vacuum pump 15, which may be easier if the high
pressure service port 14 and the low pressure service port 13 of
the HVAC-R system are not disposed close to one another.
[0077] In preferred examples, the vacuum pump 15 also includes a
shut-off valve 26 between the pump 17 and the HVAC-R system 1, as
shown. The shut-off valve 26 is preferably located to isolate the
pump 17 from the HVAC-R system 1, while permitting the sensor 21 to
detect pressure in the HVAC-R system 1, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5.
The shut-off valve 26 is preferably electrically actuatable and can
be actuated by the control unit 18 to open and close the fluid
connection between the pump 17 and the HVAC-R system 1. In
preferred examples, the shut-off valve 26 is biased to a closed
position, so that in the event of power loss the connection to the
HVAC-R system 1 is closed.
[0078] Hoses and pipes are used to fluidly connect the pump intake
22 and pressure sensor 21 to the HVAC-R system 1. Hoses may include
connectors, for example fittings, that include a threaded connector
for attachment to the pump intake 22, the high pressure service
port 14, and the low pressure service port 13, as appropriate.
[0079] In further examples, the vacuum pump 15 may include an
alarm. The control unit 18 may be configured to operate the alarm
if the detected pressure changes suddenly, for example a loss of
vacuum seal. The alarm may alternatively me operated in response to
peaks in power consumption by the pump 17. The alarm may be an
audible or visual alarm. When operating the alarm, the control unit
18 may additionally send a communication to the remote device 20
via the communications unit 19.
[0080] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 6, the vacuum pump 15 includes a
housing 16 in which the components of the vacuum pump 15 are
disposed.
[0081] In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, to perform a vacuum
test using the vacuum pump 15, the pump intake 22 is connected to
the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port 13 to draw a
vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1. The pressure sensor 21 is connected
to the HVAC-R system 1 via the high pressure service port 14.
[0082] During use, the control unit 18 operates the pump 17 to draw
a vacuum on the HVAC-R system, and the pressure sensor 21 is
arranged to detect the vacuum pressure in the HVAC-R system 1.
[0083] Advantageously, in the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2,
the pressure sensor 21 is connected to the HVAC-R system 1 such
that it is positioned at a furthest point of the system from the
pump 17. Therefore, the pressure sensor 21 is arranged to detect
the vacuum pressure at a location remote from the pump 17, and
therefore detects the lowest vacuum value in the HVAC-R system 1
(the highest vacuum level being at the pump intake 22).
[0084] The control unit 18 receives pressure data from the pressure
sensor 21, the pressure data being indicative of the vacuum
pressure in the HVAC-R system 1. The control unit 18 is configured
to communicate with the remote device 20 via the communications
unit 19. For example, the control unit 18 may be configured to send
an SMS communication to the remote device 20 via a connection to a
mobile communications network provided by the communications unit
19.
[0085] In an alternative example similar to that shown in FIG. 2,
the pump intake 22 is connected to the high pressure service port
14 of the HVAC-R system 1, and the pressure sensor 21 is connected
to the low pressure service port 13 of the HVAC-R system 1. This
operates in the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 2,
but fluid is drawn from the HVAC-R system 1 via the high pressure
service port 14 instead of via the low pressure service port
13.
[0086] In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the pump intake 22 is
connected to the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port
13 to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1. The pressure sensor 21
is arranged to detect a vacuum pressure at the pump intake 22, i.e.
at the low pressure service port 13 of the HVAC-R system 1. As
shown, the pressure sensor 21 is connected to the pump intake 22
via a branch connection 24. In this example, the shut-off valve 26
is located between the pump 17 and the branch connection 24 such
that when the shut-off valve 26 is closed the pressure sensor 21
can still detect a vacuum pressure via the low pressure service
port 13.
[0087] During use, the control unit 18 operates the pump 17 to draw
a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1, and the pressure sensor 21 is
arranged to detect the vacuum being pulled on the HVAC-R system 1
by the pump 17.
[0088] The control unit 18 receives pressure data from the pressure
sensor 21, the pressure data being indicative of the vacuum
pressure in the HVAC-R system 1. The control unit 18 is configured
to communicate with the remote device 20 via the communications
unit 19. For example, the control unit 18 may be configured to send
an SMS communication to the remote device 20 via a connection to a
mobile communications network provided by the communications unit
19.
[0089] In an alternative example similar to that shown in FIG. 3,
the pump intake 22 is connected to the high pressure service port
14 of the HVAC-R system 1. This operates in the same manner as
described with reference to FIG. 3, but fluid is drawn from the
HVAC-R system 1 via the high pressure service port 14 instead of
the low pressure service port 13.
[0090] In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the pump intake 22 is
connected to the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port
13 to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1. In this example, a
first pressure sensor 21a is connected to the HVAC-R system 1 via a
connection between a second intake 23 and the high pressure service
port 14. The second intake 23 has a connector. A second pressure
sensor 21b is arranged to detect the pressure at the pump intake
22, i.e. at the low pressure service port 13 of the HVAC-R system
1. As shown, the second vacuum sensor 21b is connected via a branch
connection 24. The shut-off valve 26 is located between the pump 17
and the branch connection 24 such that when the shut-off valve 26
is closed the first and second pressure sensors 21a, 21b can still
detect a vacuum pressure via the low pressure service port 13 and
the high pressure service port 14. The vacuum pressures detected by
the first and second pressure sensors 21a, 21b will differ during
operation of the pump 17 due to the pressure drop across the HVAC-R
system, between the high and low pressure service ports 14, 13.
[0091] During use, the control unit 18 operates the pump 17 to draw
a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port
13, the first pressure sensor 21a is arranged to detect the
pressure at the high pressure service port, and the second pressure
sensor 21b is arranged to detect the pressure at the pump intake 22
and low pressure service port 13.
[0092] The control unit 18 receives pressure data from the first
pressure sensor 21a and from the second pressure sensor 21b, the
pressure data being indicative of the vacuum pressure in the HVAC-R
system 1. The control unit 18 is configured to communicate with the
remote device 20 via the communications unit 19. For example, the
control unit 18 may be configured to send an SMS communication to
the remote device 20 via a connection to a mobile communications
network provided by the communications unit 19.
[0093] In an alternative example similar to that shown in FIG. 4,
the pump intake 22 is connected to the high pressure service port
14 of the HVAC-R system 1, the first pressure sensor 21a is
connected to the low pressure service port 13, and the second
pressure sensor 21b is arranged to detect the pressure at the pump
intake 22, i.e. at the high pressure service port 14 of the HVAC-R
system 1. This operates in the same manner as described with
reference to FIG. 4, but fluid is drawn from the HVAC-R system 1
via the high pressure service port 14 instead of via the low
pressure service port 13.
[0094] In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the pump 17 is
connected to both of the high pressure service port 14 and the low
pressure service port 13 of the HVAC-R system 1. In particular, the
pump 17 has a first intake 22 for connection to the low pressure
service port 13 and a second intake 23 for connection to the high
pressure service port 14. The pressure sensor 21 is also connected
to both the first and second intakes 22, 23, and is therefore
arranged to detect the pressure in the HVAC-R system 1 and at the
pump 17.
[0095] During use, the control unit 18 operates the pump 17 to draw
a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port
13 and via the high pressure service port 14. The pressure sensor
21 is arranged to detect the pressure applied by the pump 17 to the
high pressure service port 14 and the low pressure service port 13
via connection 25.
[0096] The control unit 18 receives pressure data from the pressure
sensor 21, the pressure data being indicative of the vacuum
pressure in the HVAC-R system 1. The control unit 18 is configured
to communicate with the remote device 20 via the communications
unit 19. For example, the control unit 18 may be configured to send
an SMS communication to the remote device 20 via a connection to a
mobile communications network provided by the communications unit
19.
[0097] In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, the pump 17 is
connected to the high pressure service port 14 and the low pressure
service port 13 of the HVAC-R system 1. In particular, the pump 17
has a first intake 22 for connection to the low pressure service
port 13 and a second intake 23 for connection to the high pressure
service port 14. The pressure sensor 21 is also connected to both
the first and second intakes 22, 23, and valves 35a and 35b are
arranged to alter the connections between the pressure sensor 21
and one or the other of the pump intake 22 and second pump intake
23. Therefore, the valves 35a, 35b can be configured such that the
pressure sensor 21 can detect the pressure in the HVAC-R system 1
via the high pressure service port 14 or via the low pressure
service port 13.
[0098] During use, the control unit 18 operates the pump 17 to draw
a vacuum on the HVAC-R system 1 via the low pressure service port
13.
[0099] The valves 35a, 35b are preferably electrically actuatable
valves and the operation of the valves 35a, 35b is preferably
controlled by the control unit 18.
[0100] In a first configuration, the second valve 35b is open and
the first valve 35a is closed. In this configuration, the pressure
sensor 21 is arranged to detect the pressure applied by the pump 17
to the low pressure service port 13 via the pump intake 22. In an
alternative configuration, the first valve 35a is open and the
second valve 35b is closed. In this configuration, the pressure
sensor 21 is arranged to detect the pressure at the high pressure
service port 14 via the pump intake 23. Advantageously, this is the
furthest point in the HVAC-R system 1 from the vacuum pump 17.
[0101] The control unit 18 receives pressure data from the pressure
sensor 21, the pressure data being indicative of the vacuum
pressure in the HVAC-R system 1. The control unit 18 is configured
to communicate with the remote device 20 via the communications
unit 19. For example, the control unit 18 may be configured to send
an SMS communication to the remote device 20 via a connection to a
mobile communications network provided by the communications unit
19.
[0102] FIG. 7 is a system diagram for the vacuum pump 15. As shown,
the control unit 18 includes a controller 27, an input device 28
and a memory 29. The controller 27 may be configured to access the
memory 29 to retrieve data stored therein. For example, the memory
29 may store instruction data for operating the pump 17, for
example instruction data for a vacuum test. The input device 28 may
comprise one or more buttons or switches, or a graphical user
interface, such as a touchscreen, for a user to provide information
and/or commands to the control unit 18. In one example, a user can
provide an instruction to the control unit 18 via the input device
28, for example a required vacuum level for a vacuum test, or the
user may select a vacuum test from a displayed list of vacuum
tests. In response, the control unit 18 may operate the pump 17 to
perform the vacuum test, as described further hereinafter.
[0103] The control unit 18, in particular the controller 27, is in
communication with the communications unit 19 for communicating
with the remote device 20. The control unit 18 is also connected to
the pressure sensor 21 for receiving pressure data, and to the
shut-off valve 26 and pump 17 for controlling operation of each. As
illustrated, the control unit 18 may also be in communication with
one or more electrically actuatable valves 35a, 35b, such as those
in the example of FIG. 6, to control operation of the electrically
actuatable valves 35a, 35b.
[0104] In some examples, the vacuum pump 25 further comprises a
power sensor 30 arranged to detect the power being drawn by the
pump 17. In particular, the pump 17 comprises an electric motor for
driving the pump 17, and the vacuum pump 15 may include a power
sensor 30, for example a current sensor, arranged to detect the
power being drawn by the electric motor of the pump 17. The control
unit 18 may be configured to receive power data detected by the
power sensor 30. When performing a vacuum test, the power drawn by
the electric motor of the pump 17 will initially be higher, as the
pump 17 performs work to draw fluid from the HVAC-R system 1, and
the power drawn by the electric motor of the pump 17 will decrease
as the vacuum level increases as there is less work being performed
by the pump 17. Therefore, by measuring and monitoring the power
being drawn by the electric motor of the pump 17 the control unit
18 can determine relative vacuum levels.
[0105] The control unit 18 is configured to operate the pump 17. In
particular, the control unit 18 receives pressure data from the
pressure sensor 21, and operates the pump 17 to perform a vacuum
test.
[0106] The control unit 18 may be configured to operate the pump 17
until the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21
reaches a threshold value. The control unit 18 may be configured to
operate the pump 17 until the vacuum pressure detected by the
pressure sensor 21 passes a threshold value for a pre-determined
period of time. In some examples, as described further hereinafter,
the control unit 18 may be configured to operate the pump 17 until
the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21 reaches a
threshold value, the control unit 18 may then be configured to
close the shut-off valve 26, stop operation of the pump 17, and
monitor the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21 for
a pre-determined period of time.
[0107] FIG. 8 illustrates an adapter 36 for use with a vacuum pump
37. In this example, the vacuum pump 37 has a pump 17, a first
intake 22, and a second intake 23. The adapter 36 has a connector
38. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the vacuum pump 37 is connected to
the low pressure service port 13 of the HVAC-R system 1 via the
first intake 22, and the adapter 36, in particular the connector
38, is connected to the high pressure service port 14 of the HVAC-R
system 1.
[0108] In alternative examples of use of the adapter 36, the
connector 38 of the adapter 36 can be connected to the second
intake 23 of the vacuum pump 37. In yet another example, the
adapter 36 may be connectable to the first intake 22 of the vacuum
pump 37 along with the connection to the HVAC-R system 1, for
example via a T junction connector. In examples, the adapter 36 can
be connected to the HVAC-R system 1 or to vacuum pump 37 via a
hose, or in other examples the connector 38 may screw directly onto
the high pressure service port 14 of the HVAC-R system 1 or to the
second intake 23 of the vacuum pump.
[0109] In each example, the adapter 36 is connected to detect the
vacuum pressure generated by the vacuum pump 37, either at the pump
itself 17, or via the HVAC-R system 1.
[0110] As illustrated, the adapter 36 includes a pressure sensor 21
connected to the connector 38. The adapter 36 also includes a valve
39 disposed between the connector 38 and the pressure sensor 21.
The adapter 36 further includes a control unit 18 and a
communications unit 19 analogous to the control unit 18 and
communications unit 19 of the examples of FIGS. 2 to 7. The valve
39 is preferably an electrically actuatable valve and is operated
by the control unit 18. The valve 39 is preferably biased to a
closed position.
[0111] The communications unit 19 is configured to communicate with
a remote device 20 over a mobile communications network. The
control unit 18 is in data communication with the communications
unit 19. In preferred examples, the communications unit 19 includes
a receiver for receiving data, for example instructions, from the
remote device 20. The communications unit 19 may comprise a
transceiver for receiving data, for example instructions, from the
remote device 20, and for transmitting data to the remote device
20. In some examples, the communications unit may further comprise
an additional transmitter and/or receiver, for example a Bluetooth
transmitter and/or receiver. In examples, the remote device 20 may
be a mobile phone or a tablet computer, or any device that can
connect to a mobile communications network.
[0112] In preferred examples, the communications unit 19 comprises
a transceiver configured to communicate on a mobile communications
network, for example a GSM, LTE, UMTS, WiMax, LTE-A, and/or 5G
mobile communications network, a Low Power Wide Area Network
(LPWAN) radio technology, for example a Narrowband IoT network. The
communications unit 19 may be configured to communicate with a
remote device 20 via the communications unit 19 using the mobile
communications network. The communications unit 19 communicates
data to the remote device 20, for example using SMS format.
[0113] The pressure sensor 21 may be a vacuum pressure sensor. The
control unit 18 is configured to receive pressure data from the
pressure sensor 21.
[0114] The adapter 36 preferably comprises a housing 40 in which
the pressure sensor 21, valve 39, control unit 18 and
communications unit 19 are located, and the connector 38 is
preferably arranged on the housing 40.
[0115] In this example, the adapter 36 is arranged such that the
pressure sensor 21 can detect the vacuum pressure in the HVAC-R
system 1 generated by the vacuum pump 37. The control unit 18 can
communicate, via the communications unit 19, with the remote device
20 to provide pressure information to the remote device 20.
[0116] In further examples, the control unit 18 may be connected,
for example via a Bluetooth connection provided by the
communications unit 19, to the vacuum pump 37 to control operation
of the vacuum pump 37. In particular the pump 17 and/or any
electrically actuatable valves of the vacuum pump 37.
[0117] FIG. 9 illustrates a system diagram of the adapter 36 of
FIG. 8. As shown, and similarly to the system diagram of FIG. 7,
the control unit 18 includes a controller 27, an input device 28
and a memory 29. The controller 27 may be configured to access the
memory 29 to retrieve data stored therein. For example, the memory
29 may store instruction data for a vacuum test. The input device
28 may comprise one or more buttons or switches, or a graphical
user interface, such as a touchscreen, for a user to provide
information and/or commands to the control unit 18. In one example,
a user can provide an instruction to the control unit 18 via the
input device 28, for example a required vacuum level for a vacuum
test, or the user may select a vacuum test from a displayed list of
vacuum tests.
[0118] The control unit 18, in particular the controller 27, is in
communication with the communications unit 19 for communicating
with the remote device 20. The control unit 18 is also connected to
the pressure sensor 21 for receiving pressure data, and to the
valve 39 for controlling operation of the valve 39.
[0119] As illustrated, in some examples the communications unit 19
provides a connection to the vacuum pump 37 for controlling
operation of the pump 17. In these examples, the control unit 18
may be configured to operate the pump 17. In particular, the
control unit 18 receives pressure data from the pressure sensor 21,
and operates the pump 17 to perform a vacuum test.
[0120] The control unit 18 may be configured to operate the pump 17
until the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21
reaches a threshold value. The control unit 18 may be configured to
operate the pump 17 until the vacuum pressure detected by the
pressure sensor 21 passes a threshold value for a pre-determined
period of time. In some examples, as described further hereinafter,
the control unit 18 may be configured to operate the pump 17 until
the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21 reaches a
threshold value, the control unit 18 may then be configured to
close the shut-off valve 26, stop operation of the pump 17, and
monitor the vacuum pressure detected by the pressure sensor 21 for
a pre-determined period of time.
[0121] In examples in which the control unit 18 of the adapter 36
does not operate the pump 17, the control unit 18 can monitor the
vacuum pressure in the HVAC-R system 1 using the pressure sensor
21, and can communicate this to the remote device 20.
[0122] The adapter 36 described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 can
be used together with a vacuum pump 37, for example a standard
vacuum pump 37, to provide further control and remote data
communication for performing a vacuum test, as described below. In
particular, the adapter 36 allows an operator to receive
information remotely through the communications unit 19, and
optionally also allows the operator to send remote instructions to
the adapter and/or vacuum pump 37.
[0123] In various examples, the vacuum pump 15 of FIGS. 2 to 7, in
particular the control unit 18, may be configured to operate the
vacuum pump 17 in various ways to perform a vacuum test. Similarly,
the adapter 36, in particular the control unit 18, together with
the vacuum pump 37, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, may be
configured to perform a vacuum test. A preferred example vacuum
test 31 is described with reference to FIG. 10.
[0124] A first stage of the example vacuum test 31 comprises a
connection test 32. During the connection test 32, the connection
to the service port 13, 14 of the HVAC-R system 1 (i.e. the hose)
is closed, and the pump 17 is operated to generate a negative
pressure against the connections within the vacuum pump 15, 37, and
between the vacuum pump 15, 37 and the HVAC-R system. The
connection test 32 thereby ensures that the vacuum pump 15, 37 and
associated hoses are properly connected and leak free. If the test
fails the control unit 18 signals to the technician, for example
using the alarm and/or the communications unit 19. The technician
then checks the hoses and valves and tightens connections if
required. The connection test 32 will be quite fast, as it is only
testing the equipment and not the HVAC-R system 1. Therefore,
usually the technician is present for the connection test 32.
[0125] After the connection test 32, an intermediate vacuum test 33
is conducted. The connection(s) between the vacuum pump 15 and the
high pressure and/or low pressure service port 13, 14 of the HVAC-R
system 1 is opened. The control unit 18 is configured to open the
shut-off valve 26 and operate the pump 17 to generate a vacuum in
the HVAC-R system 1. The pressure sensor 21 or pressure sensors
21a, 21b detects the vacuum pressure in the HVAC-R system.
[0126] The control unit 18 operates the pump 17 until the detected
pressure reaches a predetermined threshold value. Once the
threshold is passed, the pump 17 is deactivated and the shut-off
valve 26 is closed, sealing the HVAC-R system 1 from the pump 17.
The control unit 18 then monitors the pressure data from the
pressure sensor 21 to determine if the HVAC-R system 1 is holding
the vacuum that has been applied. The control unit 18 may monitor
the pressure in the HVAC-R system 1 for a pre-determined period of
time. The intermediate vacuum test 33 is passed if the HVAC-R
system 1 holds the applied vacuum for the pre-determined period of
time. During the intermediate vacuum test 33, the predetermined
vacuum threshold and the predetermined period of time are large
enough to identify if there large leaks in the HVAC-R system 1, for
example a disconnected or burst pipe. If the intermediate vacuum
test 33 fails, the control unit 18 sends a communication to the
technician via the communication unit 19 and/or the alarm. The
engineer should investigate the HVAC-R system 1 to identify the
leak. If the intermediate vacuum test 33 is passed, a full vacuum
test 34 is performed.
[0127] During the full vacuum test 34 the connection(s) between the
vacuum pump 15 and the high pressure and/or low pressure service
port 13, 14 of the HVAC-R system 1 is opened. The control unit 18
operates the pump 17 until the detected pressure reaches a
predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is higher than
during the intermediate vacuum test 33. Once the threshold is
passed, the pump 17 is deactivated and the shut-off valve 26 is
closed, sealing the HVAC-R system 1 from the pump 17. The control
unit 18 then monitors the pressure data received from the pressure
sensor 21 to determine if the HVAC-R system 1 is holding the vacuum
that has been applied. The control unit 18 may monitor the pressure
in the HVAC-R system 1 for a pre-determined period of time. The
intermediate vacuum test 33 is passed if the HVAC-R system 1 holds
the applied vacuum for the pre-determined period of time.
[0128] The full vacuum test 33 is passed if the HVAC-R system 1
holds the applied vacuum for the pre-determined period of time. The
predetermined pressure threshold and period of time are typically
larger and longer, respectively, during the full vacuum test 34
than during the intermediate vacuum test 33.
[0129] The intermediate and full vacuum tests 33, 34 described
above may take a long time, dependent on the size of the HVAC-R
system 1, the equipment and configuration of the HVAC-R system 1,
and the gauge (diameter) of pipes and hoses in the HVAC-R system 1.
These factors influence the pressure drop across the HVAC-R system,
and in some large commercial applications the intermediate and full
vacuum tests 33, 34 may take up to 12 hours or longer.
Advantageously, providing the vacuum pump 15 with a communications
unit 19 that is configured to communicate with a remote device 20
over a mobile communications network means that the technician does
not need to be present for the duration of the vacuum test 31 as
they can receive updates and alarms from anywhere with mobile
communications network.
[0130] It will be appreciated that different vacuum tests may
comprise different sub-tests to those described with reference to
the example of FIG. 10. For example, a vacuum test may only
comprise the full vacuum test 34 described above.
[0131] During any stage of a vacuum test the control unit 18 may be
configured to send updates to the technician via a connection to
the mobile communications network provided by the communications
unit 19. For example, the control unit 18 may be configured to send
regular updates, for example hourly updates. Alternatively or
additionally, the control unit 18 may be configured to send updates
to the technician via the communications unit 19 when certain
milestones have been passed (e.g. intermediate vacuum test 33
passed). The control unit 18 may be configured to send the update
as an SMS communication to the remote device 20.
[0132] The control unit 18 may be configured to respond to a
communication received by the communications unit 19 over the
mobile communications network. For example, the communications unit
19 may receive a request for an update, and the control unit 18 can
be configured to respond with status information of the vacuum
test, for example a current detected pressure and time. In other
examples, the communications unit 19 may receive an instruction,
for example an instruction to perform a vacuum test or to increase
the vacuum, and the control unit 18 can be configured to operate
the pump 17 in response to such an instruction.
[0133] In preferred examples, the connectors of the vacuum pump 15
and/or the adapter 36, as described herein, are threaded connectors
for connection with an HVAC-R hose. In particular, the connector of
the pump intake 22, the connector of the second intake 23, and the
connector 38 of the adapter 36 preferably comprise a threaded
connector for connecting to an HVAC-R hose. Preferably, the
threaded connectors are configured for attachment to standard
refrigerant hoses as used in HVAC-R maintenance. For example, the
threaded connectors may have a threaded connection with size: 1/8
inch (3.175 mm), or 3/8 inch (9.525 mm), or 1/2 inch (12.7 mm), or
7/8 inch (22.225 mm). In preferred examples, the threaded
connectors are 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) SAE connectors. Preferably, the
connectors comprise a male threaded connector.
[0134] In summary, there is provided a vacuum pump 15 for use
during maintenance or commissioning of an HVAC-R system 1. The
vacuum pump 15 has a pump 17 having a pump intake 22 for connection
to the HVAC-R system 1, in particular one or more of a high
pressure service port 14 and a low pressure service port 13 of the
HVAC-R system 1. The vacuum pump 15 also includes a communications
unit 19 that is configured to connect to a mobile communications
network. The vacuum pump 15 also includes a pressure sensor
arranged to detect a pressure in the HVAC-R system 1. The vacuum
pump 15 also includes a control unit 18 configured to communicate
with the pressure sensor 21, control operation of the pump 17, and
communicate with a remote device via the mobile communications
network. In examples, the remote device 20 may be a mobile phone or
a tablet computer, or any device that can connect to a mobile
communications network. Therefore, the vacuum pump 15 can remotely
communicate updates to the remote device 20 over a mobile
communications network, and can optionally also receive
instructions or requests from the remote device 20 over a mobile
communications network.
[0135] There is also provided an adapter 36 for a vacuum pump 37
for use during maintenance or commissioning of an HVAC-R system 1.
The adapter 36 includes a connector 38 for connecting to the HVAC-R
system 1. Optionally, the connector 38 is for connecting to the
HVAC-R system 1 via the vacuum pump 37. The adapter 36 further
includes a pressure sensor 21 arranged to detect a pressure in the
HVAC-R system 1 during use. The adapter 37 further includes a
communications unit 19 configured to connect to a mobile
communications network, and a control unit 18 configured to
communicate with the pressure sensor 21 and with a remote device 20
via the mobile communications unit 19.
[0136] There is also provided a method of performing a vacuum test
that includes using a vacuum pump to draw a vacuum on the HVAC-R
system 1 and communicating with a remote device 20 via a mobile
communications network, for example to send updates to the remote
device 20, or to receive instructions from the remote device
20.
[0137] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of them mean
"including but not limited to", and they are not intended to (and
do not) exclude other components, integers or steps. Throughout the
description and claims of this specification, the singular
encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In
particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification
is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as
singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
[0138] Features, integers, characteristics or groups described in
conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the
invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other
aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible
therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification
(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or
all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be
combined in any combination, except combinations where at least
some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The
invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing
embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel
combination, of the features disclosed in this specification
(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to
any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method
or process so disclosed.
* * * * *