A/C compressor clutch power management

US8332098B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC · US

Inventors

• Gregory A. Major · Farmington Hills, US
• Kenneth L. Porrett · Grand Blanc, US
• John I. Frey · Shelby Charter Township, US
• Shawn L. Boozer · Clarkston, US
• Edwin J. Stanke · Bloomfield Hills, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 24, 2008
• Grant date: Dec 11, 2012
• Expiry date: Jan 6, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16D2500/7044
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method of controlling a power input to a compressor clutch, via an A/C clutch voltage controller, that selectively drives an A/C compressor in a vehicle HVAC system is disclosed. The method may comprise the steps of: determining a first electric power level needed to cause the compressor clutch to move to a full engagement position from a compressor clutch non-engagement position; applying the first electric power level to the compressor clutch to cause the compressor clutch to move to the full engagement position; determining a second electric power level, which is lower than the first electric power level, needed to maintain the compressor clutch in the full engagement position; and applying the second electric power level to the compressor clutch to maintain the compressor clutch in the full engagement position.