Component-Based Vapor Compression Simulation Tool With Integrated Multi-Objective Optimization Routines

A component-based simulation tool for modeling the steady state performance and cost of vapor compression systems has been developed. Features of the simulation software include component inter-changeability, charge management, and built-in multi-objective optimization routines. The simulation tool is capable of optimizing for a variety of performance or economic variables by varying any component or system level independent property. Example component level independent properties include heat exchanger tube length, air flow rate, and fins per inch and example system level independent properties include system subcooling and system superheat. This paper presents the use of multi-objective optimization, specifically multi-objective genetic algorithms, to optimize the performance and cost of an experimental vapor compression system. The simulation tool utilizes a class interface Component Standard allowing for system-to-component communication. This paper also discusses the purpose and requirement for such a standard in any component-based simulation software while using a vapor compression system as an example.