Control-oriented modeling and analysis of automotive transcritical AC system dynamics

This paper presents a dynamic model of a transcritical air-conditioning system, specifically suited for multivariable controller design. The physically based model retains sufficient detail to accurately predict system dynamic response while also being simple enough to be of value in determining appropriate control strategies. The control focus would be quasi-steady transitions between operating states by modulating flow rates of both air and refrigerant to meet changing constraints on capacity, efficiency, noise, etc. Both nonlinear and linearized versions of the model are compared to experimental data. Possibilities for model order reduction are substantiated.