Method for Operating A Linear Compressor

Abstract

A method for operating a linear compressor includes providing a current controller, a resonance controller and a clearance controller. The current controller, the resonance controller and the clearance controller are configured for regulating operating parameters of a motor of the linear compressor. By managing priority between the current controller, the resonance controller and the clearance controller, the method may assist with efficiently operating the linear compressor while also maintaining stability.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to linear compressors, such as linear compressors for refrigerator appliances.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Certain refrigerator appliances include sealed systems for cooling chilled chambers of the refrigerator appliances. The sealed systems generally include a compressor that generates compressed refrigerant during operation of the sealed systems. The compressed refrigerant flows to an evaporator where heat exchange between the chilled chambers and the refrigerant cools the chilled chambers and food items located therein.

Recently, certain refrigerator appliances have included linear compressors for compressing refrigerant. Linear compressors generally include a piston and a driving coil. A voltage excitation induces a current within the driving coil that generates a force for sliding the piston forward and backward within a chamber. During motion of the piston within the chamber, the piston compresses refrigerant. Motion of the piston within the chamber is generally controlled such that the piston does not crash against another component of the linear compressor during motion of the piston within the chamber. Such head crashing can damage various components of the linear compressor, such as the piston or an associated cylinder. While head crashing is preferably avoided, it can be difficult to accurately control a motor of the linear compressor to avoid head crashing.

Accordingly, a method for operating a linear compressor with features for avoiding head crashing would be useful. In particular, a method for determining operating a linear compressor with features for avoiding head crashing without utilizing a position sensor would be useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter provides a method for operating a linear compressor. The method includes providing a current controller, a resonance controller and a clearance controller. The current controller, the resonance controller and the clearance controller are configured for regulating operating parameters of a motor of the linear compressor. By managing priority between the current controller, the resonance controller and the clearance controller, the method may assist with efficiently operating the linear compressor while also maintaining stability. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In a first exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a linear compressor is provided. The method includes providing a current controller, a resonance controller and a clearance controller. The current controller is configured for adjusting an amplitude of a supply voltage to the linear compressor. The resonance controller is configured for adjusting a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor. The method also includes utilizing the current controller to adjust the amplitude of the supply voltage to the linear compressor such that the current controller reduces a difference between a peak current induced in the linear compressor and a reference peak current to less than a threshold current error, utilizing the resonance controller to adjust a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor after the difference between the peak current induced in the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error such that the resonance controller reduces a phase difference between a reference phase and a phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and a current induced in the linear compressor to less than a threshold phase error, and utilizing the clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the reference phase and the phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error.

In a second exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a linear compressor is provided. The method includes utilizing a current controller to adjust an amplitude of a supply voltage to the linear compressor such that a difference between a peak current induced in a motor of the linear compressor and a reference peak current is reduced to less than a threshold current error, utilizing a resonance controller to adjust a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor such that a phase difference between a reference phase and a phase between an observed velocity of the linear compressor and a current induced in the motor of the linear compressor is reduced to less than a threshold phase error after the difference between the peak current induced in the motor of the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error, and utilizing a clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the reference phase and the phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the motor of the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 2 is schematic view of certain components of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of a linear compressor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 4 provides a side section view of the exemplary linear compressor of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of the exemplary linear compressor of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates a method for operating a linear compressor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method for operating a linear compressor according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 illustrate exemplary plots of experimental electrical motor parameter estimates.

FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 illustrate exemplary plots of various operating conditions of the linear compressor during the method of FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

FIG. 1 depicts a refrigerator appliance 10 that incorporates a sealed refrigeration system 60 (FIG. 2). It should be appreciated that the term “refrigerator appliance” is used in a generic sense herein to encompass any manner of refrigeration appliance, such as a freezer, refrigerator/freezer combination, and any style or model of conventional refrigerator. In addition, it should be understood that the present subject matter is not limited to use in appliances. Thus, the present subject matter may be used for any other suitable purpose, such as vapor compression within air conditioning units or air compression within air compressors.

In the illustrated exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the refrigerator appliance 10 is depicted as an upright refrigerator having a cabinet or casing 12 that defines a number of internal chilled storage compartments. In particular, refrigerator appliance 10 includes upper fresh-food compartments 14 having doors 16 and lower freezer compartment 18 having upper drawer 20 and lower drawer 22. The drawers 20 and 22 are “pull-out” drawers in that they can be manually moved into and out of the freezer compartment 18 on suitable slide mechanisms.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of certain components of refrigerator appliance 10, including a sealed refrigeration system 60 of refrigerator appliance 10. A machinery compartment 62 contains components for executing a known vapor compression cycle for cooling air. The components include a compressor 64, a condenser 66, an expansion device 68, and an evaporator 70 connected in series and charged with a refrigerant. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, refrigeration system 60 may include additional components, e.g., at least one additional evaporator, compressor, expansion device, and/or condenser. As an example, refrigeration system 60 may include two evaporators.

Within refrigeration system 60, refrigerant flows into compressor 64, which operates to increase the pressure of the refrigerant. This compression of the refrigerant raises its temperature, which is lowered by passing the refrigerant through condenser 66. Within condenser 66, heat exchange with ambient air takes place so as to cool the refrigerant. A fan 72 is used to pull air across condenser 66, as illustrated by arrows A_C, so as to provide forced convection for a more rapid and efficient heat exchange between the refrigerant within condenser 66 and the ambient air. Thus, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, increasing air flow across condenser 66 can, e.g., increase the efficiency of condenser 66 by improving cooling of the refrigerant contained therein.

An expansion device (e.g., a valve, capillary tube, or other restriction device) 68 receives refrigerant from condenser 66. From expansion device 68, the refrigerant enters evaporator 70. Upon exiting expansion device 68 and entering evaporator 70, the refrigerant drops in pressure. Due to the pressure drop and/or phase change of the refrigerant, evaporator 70 is cool relative to compartments 14 and 18 of refrigerator appliance 10. As such, cooled air is produced and refrigerates compartments 14 and 18 of refrigerator appliance 10. Thus, evaporator 70 is a type of heat exchanger which transfers heat from air passing over evaporator 70 to refrigerant flowing through evaporator 70.

Collectively, the vapor compression cycle components in a refrigeration circuit, associated fans, and associated compartments are sometimes referred to as a sealed refrigeration system operable to force cold air through compartments 14, 18 (FIG. 1). The refrigeration system 60 depicted in FIG. 2 is provided by way of example only. Thus, it is within the scope of the present subject matter for other configurations of the refrigeration system to be used as well.

FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of a linear compressor 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 4 provides a side section view of linear compressor 100. FIG. 5 provides an exploded side section view of linear compressor 100. As discussed in greater detail below, linear compressor 100 is operable to increase a pressure of fluid within a chamber 112 of linear compressor 100. Linear compressor 100 may be used to compress any suitable fluid, such as refrigerant or air. In particular, linear compressor 100 may be used in a refrigerator appliance, such as refrigerator appliance 10 (FIG. 1) in which linear compressor 100 may be used as compressor 64 (FIG. 2). As may be seen in FIG. 3, linear compressor 100 defines an axial direction A, a radial direction R and a circumferential direction C. Linear compressor 100 may be enclosed within a hermetic or air-tight shell (not shown). The hermetic shell can, e.g., hinder or prevent refrigerant from leaking or escaping from refrigeration system 60.

Turning now to FIG. 4, linear compressor 100 includes a casing 110 that extends between a first end portion 102 and a second end portion 104, e.g., along the axial direction A. Casing 110 includes various static or non-moving structural components of linear compressor 100. In particular, casing 110 includes a cylinder assembly 111 that defines a chamber 112. Cylinder assembly 111 is positioned at or adjacent second end portion 104 of casing 110. Chamber 112 extends longitudinally along the axial direction A. Casing 110 also includes a motor mount mid-section 113 and an end cap 115 positioned opposite each other about a motor. A stator, e.g., including an outer back iron 150 and a driving coil 152, of the motor is mounted or secured to casing 110, e.g., such that the stator is sandwiched between motor mount mid-section 113 and end cap 115 of casing 110. Linear compressor 100 also includes valves (such as a discharge valve assembly 117 at an end of chamber 112) that permit refrigerant to enter and exit chamber 112 during operation of linear compressor 100.

A piston assembly 114 with a piston head 116 is slidably received within chamber 112 of cylinder assembly 111. In particular, piston assembly 114 is slidable along a first axis A1 within chamber 112. The first axis A1 may be substantially parallel to the axial direction A. During sliding of piston head 116 within chamber 112, piston head 116 compresses refrigerant within chamber 112. As an example, from a top dead center position, piston head 116 can slide within chamber 112 towards a bottom dead center position along the axial direction A, i.e., an expansion stroke of piston head 116. When piston head 116 reaches the bottom dead center position, piston head 116 changes directions and slides in chamber 112 back towards the top dead center position, i.e., a compression stroke of piston head 116. It should be understood that linear compressor 100 may include an additional piston head and/or additional chamber at an opposite end of linear compressor 100. Thus, linear compressor 100 may have multiple piston heads in alternative exemplary embodiments.

Linear compressor 100 also includes an inner back iron assembly 130. Inner back iron assembly 130 is positioned in the stator of the motor. In particular, outer back iron 150 and/or driving coil 152 may extend about inner back iron assembly 130, e.g., along the circumferential direction C Inner back iron assembly 130 extends between a first end portion 132 and a second end portion 134, e.g., along the axial direction A.

Inner back iron assembly 130 also has an outer surface 137. At least one driving magnet 140 is mounted to inner back iron assembly 130, e.g., at outer surface 137 of inner back iron assembly 130. Driving magnet 140 may face and/or be exposed to driving coil 152. In particular, driving magnet 140 may be spaced apart from driving coil 152, e.g., along the radial direction R by an air gap AG. Thus, the air gap AG may be defined between opposing surfaces of driving magnet 140 and driving coil 152. Driving magnet 140 may also be mounted or fixed to inner back iron assembly 130 such that an outer surface 142 of driving magnet 140 is substantially flush with outer surface 137 of inner back iron assembly 130. Thus, driving magnet 140 may be inset within inner back iron assembly 130. In such a manner, the magnetic field from driving coil 152 may have to pass through only a single air gap (e.g., air gap AG) between outer back iron 150 and inner back iron assembly 130 during operation of linear compressor 100, and linear compressor 100 may be more efficient than linear compressors with air gaps on both sides of a driving magnet.

As may be seen in FIG. 4, driving coil 152 extends about inner back iron assembly 130, e.g., along the circumferential direction C. Driving coil 152 is operable to move the inner back iron assembly 130 along a second axis A2 during operation of driving coil 152. The second axis may be substantially parallel to the axial direction A and/or the first axis A1. As an example, driving coil 152 may receive a current from a current source (not shown) in order to generate a magnetic field that engages driving magnet 140 and urges piston assembly 114 to move along the axial direction A in order to compress refrigerant within chamber 112 as described above and will be understood by those skilled in the art. In particular, the magnetic field of driving coil 152 may engage driving magnet 140 in order to move inner back iron assembly 130 along the second axis A2 and piston head 116 along the first axis A1 during operation of driving coil 152. Thus, driving coil 152 may slide piston assembly 114 between the top dead center position and the bottom dead center position, e.g., by moving inner back iron assembly 130 along the second axis A2, during operation of driving coil 152.

A piston flex mount 160 is mounted to and extends through inner back iron assembly 130. A coupling 170 extends between piston flex mount 160 and piston assembly 114, e.g., along the axial direction A. Thus, coupling 170 connects inner back iron assembly 130 and piston assembly 114 such that motion of inner back iron assembly 130, e.g., along the axial direction A or the second axis A2, is transferred to piston assembly 114. Piston flex mount 160 defines an input passage 162 that permits refrigerant to flow therethrough.

Linear compressor 100 may include various components for permitting and/or regulating operation of linear compressor 100. In particular, linear compressor 100 includes a controller (not shown) that is configured for regulating operation of linear compressor 100. The controller is in, e.g., operative, communication with the motor, e.g., driving coil 152 of the motor. Thus, the controller may selectively activate driving coil 152, e.g., by supplying voltage to driving coil 152, in order to compress refrigerant with piston assembly 114 as described above.

The controller includes memory and one or more processing devices such as microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of linear compressor 100. The memory can represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. The processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory can be a separate component from the processor or can be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, the controller may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Linear compressor 100 also includes a spring assembly 120. Spring assembly 120 is positioned in inner back iron assembly 130. In particular, inner back iron assembly 130 may extend about spring assembly 120, e.g., along the circumferential direction C. Spring assembly 120 also extends between first and second end portions 102 and 104 of casing 110, e.g., along the axial direction A. Spring assembly 120 assists with coupling inner back iron assembly 130 to casing 110, e.g., cylinder assembly 111 of casing 110. In particular, inner back iron assembly 130 is fixed to spring assembly 120 at a middle portion 119 of spring assembly 120.

During operation of driving coil 152, spring assembly 120 supports inner back iron assembly 130. In particular, inner back iron assembly 130 is suspended by spring assembly 120 within the stator or the motor of linear compressor 100 such that motion of inner back iron assembly 130 along the radial direction R is hindered or limited while motion along the second axis A2 is relatively unimpeded. Thus, spring assembly 120 may be substantially stiffer along the radial direction R than along the axial direction A. In such a manner, spring assembly 120 can assist with maintaining a uniformity of the air gap AG between driving magnet 140 and driving coil 152, e.g., along the radial direction R, during operation of the motor and movement of inner back iron assembly 130 on the second axis A2. Spring assembly 120 can also assist with hindering side pull forces of the motor from transmitting to piston assembly 114 and being reacted in cylinder assembly 111 as a friction loss.

FIG. 6 illustrates a method 600 for operating a linear compressor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Method 600 may be used to operate any suitable linear compressor. For example, method 600 may be used to operate linear compressor 100 (FIG. 3). Thus, method 600 is discussed in greater detail below with reference to linear compressor 100. Utilizing method 600 various mechanical and electrical parameters or constants of linear compressor 100 may be established or determined. For example, method 600 may assist with determining or establishing a spring constant of spring assembly 120, a motor force constant of the motor of linear compressor 100, a damping coefficient of linear compressor 100, a resistance of the motor of linear compressor 100, an inductance of the motor of linear compressor 100, a moving mass (such as mass of piston assembly 114 and inner back iron assembly 130) of linear compressor 100, etc. Knowledge of such mechanical and electrical parameters or constants of linear compressor 100 may improve performance or operation of linear compressor 100, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

At step 610, an electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is provided. Any suitable electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided at step 610. For example, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be

$\frac{i}{t}=\frac{v_a}{L_i}-\frac{r_ii}{L_i}-\frac{\alpha \stackrel{.}{x}}{L_i}$

where

• • v_a is a voltage across the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • r_i is a resistance of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • i is a current through the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • α is a motor force constant;
  • {dot over (x)} is a velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100; and
  • L_i is an inductance of the motor of linear compressor 100.

The electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 includes a plurality of unknown constants. In the example provided above, the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 includes the resistance of the motor of linear compressor 100 (e.g., the resistance of driving coil 152), the inductance of the motor of linear compressor 100 (e.g., the inductance of driving coil 152), and the motor force constant. Knowledge or accurate estimates of such unknown constants can improve operation of linear compressor 100, e.g., by permitting operation of linear compressor 100 at a resonant frequency without head crashing.

At step 610, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may also be solved for a particular variable, such as di/dt in the example provided above. Thus, as an example, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided in parametric form as

$\phi \stackrel{\Delta }{=}W{\theta }_e\mathrm{where}W\stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[v_a-i-\stackrel{.}{x}\right];\mathrm{and}{\theta }_e\stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[\frac{1}{L_1}\frac{r_i}{L_i}\frac{\propto }{L_i}\right].$

However, di/dt is difficult to accurately measure or determine. Thus, a filtering technique may be used to account for this signal and provide a useable or implementable signal. In particular, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be filtered, e.g., with a low-pass filter, to account for this signal. Thus, a filtered electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided as

Φ_fW_fθ_e.

In alternative exemplary embodiments, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be solved for {dot over (x)} at step 610. Thus, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided in parametric form as

$\Phi \stackrel{\Delta }{=}W{\theta }_e$ $\mathrm{where}$ $\Phi \stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[\frac{i}{t}\right];$ $W\stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[\begin{array}{ccc}{v}_a& -i& -\frac{i}{t}\end{array}\right];\mathrm{and}{\theta }_e\stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[\begin{array}{ccc}\frac{1}{\propto }& \frac{r_i}{\propto }& \frac{L_i}{\propto }\end{array}\right].$

Again, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be filtered, e.g., to account for di/dt.

At step 620, each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is estimated. For example, a manufacturer of linear compressor 100 may have a rough estimate or approximation for the value of each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100. Thus, such values of the each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided at step 620 to estimate each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100.

At step 630, the motor (e.g., driving coil 152) of linear compressor 100 is supplied with a time varying voltage, e.g., by the controller of linear compressor 100. Any suitable time varying voltage may be supplied to the motor of linear compressor 100 at step 630. For example, the time varying voltage may have at least two frequencies components at step 630 when the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is solved for di/dt. Thus, the time varying voltage may be

v _a(t)=v₀[sin(2πf₁t)+sin(2πf₂t)]

where

• • v_a is a voltage across the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • f₁ is a first frequency; and
  • f₂ is a second frequency.The first and second frequencies f₁, f₂ may be about the resonant frequency of linear compressor 100. In particular, the first and second frequencies f₁, f₂ may be just greater than and just less than the resonant frequency of linear compressor 100, respectively. For example, the first frequency f₁ may be within five percent greater than the resonant frequency of linear compressor 100, and the second frequency f₂ may be within five percent less than the resonant frequency of linear compressor 100. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the time varying voltage may have a single frequency at step 630, e.g., when the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is solved for {dot over (x)}. When the time varying voltage has a single frequency at step 630, the gas force of fluid within linear compressor 100 may be incorporated within the model for the motor of linear compressor 100.

A time varying current through the motor of linear compressor 100 may also be determined, e.g., during step 630. An ammeter or any other suitable method or mechanism may be used to determine the time varying current through the motor of linear compressor 100. A velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100 may also be measured, e.g., during step 630. As an example, an optical sensor, a Hall effect sensor or any other suitable sensor may be positioned adjacent piston assembly 114 and/or inner back iron assembly 130 in order to permit such sensor to measure the velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100 at step 630. Thus, piston assembly 114 and/or inner back iron assembly 130 may be directly observed in order to measure the velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100 at step 630. In addition, a filtered first derivative of the current through the motor of linear compressor 100 with respect to time may also be measured or determined, e.g., during step 630. Accordingly, the values or filtered values of W may be measured during step 630. To permit such measuring, step 630 and the measurements described above may be conducted prior to sealing the motor of linear compressor 100 within a hermetic shell.

At step 640, an error between a measured variable (e.g., di/dt or k) of the electrical dynamic model at a first time and an estimated variable of the electrical dynamic model at the first time is calculated. For example, an estimate of θ_e, {circumflex over (θ)}_e, is available, e.g., from step 620. An error between θ_e and {circumflex over (θ)}_e may be given as

{tilde over (θ)}θ_e−{circumflex over (Φ)}_e.

However, θ_e may be unknown while Φ_f is known or measured. Thus, a related error signal may be used at step 640. The related error signal may be given as

{tilde over (Φ)}Φ_f−{circumflex over (Φ)}_f.

The related error signal along with W_f may be used to update {circumflex over (θ)}_e, as described in greater detail below.

At step 650, the estimate for each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 are repeatedly updated at each time after the first time in order to reduce the error between a measured variable of the electrical dynamic model at each time after the first time and an estimated variable of the electrical dynamic model at each time after the first time. In particular, an adaptive least-squares algorithm may be utilized in order to drive the error between the measured value for the electrical dynamic model at each time after the first time and the estimated variable of the electrical dynamic model at each time after the first time towards zero. In particular, the Adaptive Least-Squares Update Law ensures that

{tilde over (θ)}_e(t)→0 as t→∞:

${\stackrel{.}{\hat{\theta }}}_e\stackrel{\Delta }{=}-k_e\frac{P_eW_f^T{\tilde{\Phi }}_f}{1+{\gamma }_eW_fP_eW_f^T},$

{circumflex over (θ)}_e (t₀) is estimated, e.g., at step 620.

where P_e(t)ε^3×3 is the covariance matrix

${\stackrel{.}{P}}_e\stackrel{\Delta }{=}-k_e\frac{P_eW_f^TW_fP_e}{1+{\gamma }_eW_fW_f^T},P_e\left(t_0\right)={\rho }_eI_3$

where k_e, γ_e, ρ_eε⁺ are constant gains.

From {circumflex over (θ)}_e, estimates of each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be given as

$\hat{\alpha }=\frac{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_3}}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}},\hat{R}=\frac{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_2}}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}},\hat{L}=\frac{1}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}}$

when the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is solved for di/dt at step 610 or

$\hat{\alpha }=\frac{1}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}},\hat{R}=\frac{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_2}}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}},\hat{L}=\frac{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_3}}{{\hat{\theta }}_{e_1}}$

when the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 is solved for {dot over (x)} at step 610.

FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 illustrate exemplary plots of experimental electrical motor parameter estimates, e.g., taken during steps 640 and 650. As may be seen in FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, the initial estimate provided for the electrical motor parameters of linear compressor 100 may be off an actual or previously determined value. However, the experimental electrical motor parameter estimates converge to the previously determined values over time.

With the unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 suitably estimated, a final estimate for each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be saved within the controller of linear compressor 100. The saved constant values may be used to facilitate efficient and/or proper operation of linear compressor 100. In particular, knowledge of the constants of the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may assist with operating linear compressor 100 at a resonant frequency while avoiding head crashing.

As discussed above, method 600 may also provide estimates of the mechanical parameters or constants of linear compressor 100. Thus, method 600 may also include providing a mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100. Any suitable mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be provided. For example, the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be

$F_m=i\left(t\right)=\frac{M}{\alpha }\ddot{x}+\frac{C}{\alpha }\stackrel{.}{x}+\frac{K}{\alpha }x$

where

• • M is a moving mass of linear compressor 100;
  • α is a motor force constant;
  • {umlaut over (x)} is an acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • C is a damping coefficient of linear compressor 100;
  • {dot over (x)} is a velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • K is a spring stiffness of linear compressor 100; and
  • x is a position of the moving mass of linear compressor 100.

The mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 includes a plurality of unknown constants. In the example provided above, the plurality of unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model of linear compressor 100 includes a moving mass of linear compressor 100 (e.g., a mass of piston assembly 114 and inner back iron assembly 130), a damping coefficient of linear compressor 100, and a spring stiffness of linear compressor 100 (e.g., a stiffness of spring assembly 120). Knowledge or accurate estimates of such unknown constants can improve operation of linear compressor 100, e.g., by permitting operation of linear compressor 100 at a resonant frequency without head crashing.

The mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may also be solved for a particular variable, such as i(t) in the example provided above. Thus, as an example, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided in parametric form as

$\Psi \stackrel{\Delta }{=}Y{\theta }_m$ $\mathrm{where}$ $\Psi \stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[i\right];$ $Y\stackrel{\Delta }{=}\left[\begin{array}{ccc}\ddot{x}& \stackrel{.}{x}& x\end{array}\right];\mathrm{and}{\theta }_m\stackrel{\Delta }{=}{\left[\begin{array}{ccc}\frac{M}{\propto }& \frac{C}{\propto }& \frac{K}{\propto }\end{array}\right]}^T.$

However, {umlaut over (x)} is difficult to accurately measure or determine. Thus, a filtering technique may be used to account for this signal and provide a measurable variable. In particular, the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be filtered, e.g., with a low-pass filter, to account for this signal. Thus, a filtered electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be provided as

Ψ_fY_fθ_m.

Each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may also be estimated, and the motor (e.g., driving coil 152) of linear compressor 100 may be supplied with a time varying voltage, e.g., in the manner described above for steps 620 and 630.

An error between a measured variable of the mechanical dynamic model at the first time and an estimated variable of the mechanical dynamic model at the first time may also be calculated. For example, an estimate of θ_m, {circumflex over (θ)}_m, is available as discussed above. An error between θ_m and {circumflex over (θ)}_m may be given as

{tilde over (θ)}_mθ_m−{circumflex over (θ)}_m.

However, θ_m may be unknown while Ψ_f is known or measured. Thus, a related error signal may be used. The related error signal may be given as

{tilde over (Ψ)}_fΨ_f−{circumflex over (Ψ)}_f.

The related error signal along with Y_f may be used to update {circumflex over (θ)}_m, as described in greater detail below.

The estimate for each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 are repeatedly updated at each time after the first time in order to reduce the error between a measured variable of the mechanical dynamic model at each time after the first time and an estimated variable of the mechanical dynamic model at each time after the first time. In particular, an adaptive least-squares algorithm may be utilized in order to drive the error between the measured value for the mechanical dynamic model at each time after the first time and the estimated variable of the mechanical dynamic model at each time after the first time towards zero. In particular, the Adaptive Least-Squares Update Law ensures that

${\tilde{\theta }}_m\left(t\right)->0\mathrm{as}t->\infty \text{:}$ ${\stackrel{.}{\hat{\theta }}}_m\stackrel{\Delta }{=}-k_m\frac{P_mY_f^T{\tilde{\Psi }}_f}{1+{\gamma }_mY_fP_mY_f^T},$

{circumflex over (θ)}_m(t₀) is estimated.

where P_m(t)ε^3×3 is the covariance matrix

${\stackrel{.}{P}}_m\stackrel{\Delta }{=}-k_m\frac{P_mY_f^TY_fP_m}{1+{\gamma }_mY_fY_f^T},P_m\left(t_0\right)={\rho }_mI_3$

where k_m, γ_m, ρ_mε⁺ are constant gains.

From {circumflex over (θ)}_m and the estimate of the motor force constant from step 650, estimates of each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be given as

{circumflex over (M)}={circumflex over (α)}{circumflex over (θ)} _{m 1} ,Ĉ={circumflex over (α)}{circumflex over (θ)} _{m 2} ,{circumflex over (K)}={circumflex over (α)}{circumflex over (θ)} _{m 3} .

With the unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 suitably estimated, a final estimate for each unknown constant of the plurality of unknown constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be saved within the controller of linear compressor 100. The saved constant values may be used to facilitate efficient and/or proper operation of linear compressor 100. In particular, knowledge of the constants of the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may assist with operating linear compressor 100 at a resonant frequency while avoiding head crashing.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 for operating a linear compressor according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Method 700 may be used to operate any suitable linear compressor. For example, method 700 may be used to operate linear compressor 100 (FIG. 3). The controller of method 700 may be programmed or configured to implement method 700. Thus, method 700 is discussed in greater detail below with reference to linear compressor 100. Utilizing method 700, the motor of linear compressor 100 may be operating according to various control methods.

As may be seen in FIG. 7, method 700 includes providing a current controller 710, a resonance controller 720 and a clearance controller 730. Method 700 selectively operates linear compressor with one of current controller 710, resonance controller 720 and clearance controller 730. Thus, at least one of current controller 710, resonance controller 720 and clearance controller 730 selects or adjusts operational parameters of the motor of linear compressor 100, e.g., in order to efficiently reciprocate piston assembly 114 and compress fluid within chamber 112. Switching between current controller 710, resonance controller 720 and clearance controller 730 may improve performance or operation of linear compressor 100, as discussed in greater detail below.

Current controller 710 may be the primary control for operation of linear compressor 100 during method 700. Current controller 710 is configured for adjusting the supply voltage v_output to linear compressor 100. For example, current controller 710 may be configured to adjust a peak voltage or amplitude of the supply voltage v_output to linear compressor 100. Current controller 710 may adjust the supply voltage v_output in order to reduce a difference or error between a peak current, i_a,peak, supplied to linear compressor 100 and a reference peak current i_a,ref. The peak current i_a,peak may be measured or estimated utilizing any suitable method or mechanism. For example, an ammeter may be used to measure the peak current i_a,peak. The voltage selector of current controller 710 may operate as a proportional-integral (PI) controller in order to reduce the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref. At a start of method 700, the reference peak current i_a,ref may be a default value, and clearance controller 730 may adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the reference peak current i_a,ref during subsequent steps of method 700, as discussed in greater detail below, such that method 700 reverts to current controller 710 in order to adjust the amplitude of the supply voltage v_output and reduce the error between the peak current i_a,peak supplied to linear compressor 100 and the adjusted reference peak current i_a,ref from clearance controller 730.

As shown in FIG. 7, current controller 710 continues to determine or regulate the amplitude of the supply voltage v_output when the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref is greater than (e.g., or outside) a threshold current error. Conversely, current controller 710 passes off determining or regulating the supply voltage v_output to resonance controller 720 when the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref is less than (e.g., or within) the threshold current error. Thus, when the current induced motor of linear compressor 100 settles, method 700 passes control of the supply voltage v_output from current controller 710 to resonance controller 720, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. However, it should be understood that current controller 710 may be always activated or running during method 700, e.g., such that current controller 710 is always determining or regulating the supply voltage v_output to ensure that the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref is greater than (e.g., or outside) the threshold current error.

Resonance controller 720 is configured for adjusting the supply voltage v_output. For example, when activated or enabled, resonance controller 720 may adjust the phase or frequency of the supply voltage v_output in order to reduce a phase difference or error between a reference phase, φ_ref, and a phase between (e.g., zero crossings of) an observed velocity, {circumflex over (v)} or {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})}, of the motor linear compressor 100 and a current, i_a, induced in the motor of linear compressor 100. The reference phase φ_ref may be any suitable phase. For example, the reference phase φ_ref may be ten degrees. As another example, the reference phase φ_ref may be one degree. Thus, resonance controller 720 may operate to regulate the supply voltage v_output in order to drive the motor linear compressor 100 at about a resonant frequency. As used herein, the term “about” means within five degrees of the stated phase when used in the context of phases.

For the resonance controller 720, the current i_a induced in the motor of linear compressor 100 may be measured or estimated utilizing any suitable method or mechanism. For example, an ammeter may be used to measure the current i_a. The observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} of the motor linear compressor 100 may be estimated or observed utilizing an electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100. Any suitable electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may be utilized. For example, the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 described above for step 610 of method 600 may be used. The electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 may also be modified such that

$\frac{i}{t}=\frac{v_a}{L_i}-\frac{r_ii}{L_i}-f\mathrm{where}f=\frac{\alpha }{L_i}\stackrel{.}{x}.$

A back-EMF of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated using at least the electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback. As an example, the back-EMF of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated by solving

{circumflex over (f)}=(K₁+1)e(t)+∫_t0^t[(K₁+1)e(σ)+K₂sgn(e(σ))]dσ−(K₁+1)e(t₀)

where

• • {circumflex over (f)} is an estimated back-EMF of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • K₁ and K₂ are real, positive gains; and
  • e=î−i and ė=f−{circumflex over (f)}; and
  • sgn(•) is the signum or sign function.In turn, the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated based at least in part on the back-EMF of the motor. For example, the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be determined by solving

$\widehat{\stackrel{.}{x}}=\frac{L_i}{\alpha }\hat{f}$

where

• • {dot over ({circumflex over (x)})} is the estimated or observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • α is a motor force constant; and
  • L_i is an inductance of the motor of linear compressor 100.The motor force constant and the inductance of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated with method 600, as described above. In such a manner, the

As shown in FIG. 7, resonance controller 720 continues to determine or regulate the frequency of the supply voltage v_output when the error between the reference phase φ_ref and the phase between the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} and the current i_a is greater than (e.g., or outside) a threshold phase error. Conversely, resonance controller 720 passes off determining or regulating the supply voltage v_output to clearance controller 730 when the error between the reference phase φ_ref and the phase between the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} and the current i_a is less than (e.g., or within) the threshold phase error. Thus, when the motor linear compressor 100 is operating at about a resonant frequency, method 700 passes control of the supply voltage v_output from resonance controller 720 to clearance controller 730, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

The threshold phase error may be any suitable phase. For example, the voltage selector of resonance controller 720 may utilize multiple threshold phase errors in order to more finely or accurately adjust the phase or frequency of the supply voltage v_output to achieve a desired frequency for linear compressor 100. For example, a first threshold phase error, a second threshold phase error and a third threshold phase error may be provided and sequentially evaluated by the voltage selector of resonance controller 720 to adjust the frequency during method 700. The first phase clearance error may be about twenty degrees, and resonance controller 720 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the frequency by about one hertz until the error between the reference phase φ_ref and the phase between the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} and the current i_a is less than the first threshold phase error. The second threshold phase error may be about five degrees, and resonance controller 720 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the frequency by about a tenth of a hertz until the error between the reference phase φ_ref and the phase between the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} and the current i_a is less than the second threshold phase error. The third threshold phase error may be about one degree, and resonance controller 720 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the frequency by about a hundredth of a hertz until the error between the reference phase φ_ref and the phase between the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})} and the current i_a is less than the third threshold phase error. As used herein, the term “about” means within ten percent of the stated frequency when used in the context of frequencies.

Clearance controller 730 is configured for adjusting the reference peak current i_a,ref. For example, when activated or enabled, clearance controller 730 may adjust the reference peak current i_a,ref in order to reduce a difference or error between an observed clearance, ĉ, of the motor of linear compressor 100 and a reference clearance, c_ref. Thus, clearance controller 730 may operate to regulate the reference peak current i_a,ref in order to drive the motor linear compressor 100 at about a particular clearance between piston head 116 and discharge valve assembly 117. The reference clearance c_ref may be any suitable distance. For example, the reference clearance c_ref may be about two millimeters, about one millimeter or about a tenth of a millimeter. As used herein, the term “about” means within ten percent of the stated clearance when used in the context of clearances.

For the clearance controller 730, the observed clearance ĉ may also be estimated or observed using any suitable method or mechanism, e.g., utilizing an electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100 and a mechanical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100. For example, from the above described electrical dynamic model for the motor of linear compressor 100, a stroke length of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated. The stroke length of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated based at least in part on the observed velocity {circumflex over ({umlaut over (x)})}. In particular, the stroke length of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated by solving

$X=\frac{L_i}{\alpha }\int \hat{f}t={\hat{x}}_{\mathrm{initial}}+\hat{x}\left(t\right)$

where {circumflex over (x)} is an estimated position of the motor of linear compressor 100. Any suitable mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be provided. For example, the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 described above for method 600 may be used. As another example, the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be

F _m =αi=M{umlaut over (x)}+C{dot over (x)}+K(x−x₀)−F_gas

where

• • M is a moving mass of linear compressor 100;
  • α is a motor force constant;
  • {umlaut over (x)} is an acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • C is a damping coefficient of linear compressor 100;
  • {dot over (x)} is a velocity of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • K is a spring stiffness of linear compressor 100;
  • x is a position of the moving mass of linear compressor 100; and
  • F_gas is a gas force.Solving for acceleration, the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 may be given as

$\ddot{x}=-\frac{C}{M}\stackrel{.}{x}-\frac{K}{M}\left(x-x_0\right)+\frac{\alpha }{M}i+\frac{1}{M}F_{\mathrm{gas}}=\frac{\alpha }{M}i+f_x\left(t\right)$ $\mathrm{where}$ $f_x\left(t\right)=\frac{1}{M}F_{\mathrm{gas}}-\frac{C}{M}\stackrel{.}{x}-\frac{K}{M}\left(x-x_0\right).$

From the above, an acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100 is estimated. In particular, the acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated using at least the mechanical dynamic model for linear compressor 100 and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback. As an example, the acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100 may be estimated at step 840 by solving

$\hat{\ddot{x}}=\frac{\alpha }{M}i+{\hat{f}}_x\left(t\right)$

with f_x being given as

{circumflex over (f)} _x=(k₁+1)e_x(t)+∫_t0^t[(k₁+1)e_x(σ)+k₂sgn(e_x(σ))]dσ−(k₁+1)e_x(t₀)

and where

• • {umlaut over ({circumflex over (x)})} is an estimated acceleration of the motor of linear compressor 100;
  • k₁ and k₂ are real, positive gains; and
  • e_x={dot over (x)}−{circumflex over ({dot over (x)})} and s_x=ė_x+e_x.In turn, a position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of the linear compressor 100 is at a bottom dead center point is determined. The position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the bottom dead center point may be estimated based at least in part on the current i_a to the motor of linear compressor 100 and the acceleration {umlaut over (x)} of the motor. For example, the position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the bottom dead center point may be estimated by solving

$x_{\mathrm{BDC}}=\frac{\alpha }{K}i_{\mathrm{BDC}}-\frac{M}{K}{\ddot{x}}_{\mathrm{BDC}}$

where

• • α is a motor force constant;
  • K is a spring stiffness of linear compressor 100;
  • i_BDC is the current induced in the motor of linear compressor 100 at the bottom dead center point;
  • M is a moving mass of linear compressor 100; and
  • {umlaut over (x)}_BDC is the acceleration of the motor at the bottom dead center point.The motor force constant, the spring stiffness of linear compressor 100 and the moving mass of linear compressor 100 may be estimated with method 600, as described above. In addition, a position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the top dead center point is determined. The position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the top dead center point may be estimated based at least in part on the position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the bottom dead center point from step 850 and a stroke length of the motor of linear compressor 100. For example, the position of the motor of linear compressor 100 when the motor of linear compressor 100 is at the top dead center point may be estimated at step 860 by solving

x _TDC =x _BDC−SL

where

• • SL is the stroke length of the motor of linear compressor 100.In turn, the observed clearance ĉ may correspond to the top dead center point or a difference between the top dead center point and the position of the discharge valve assembly 117.

As shown in FIG. 7, clearance controller 730 continues to determine or regulate the reference peak current i_a,ref, e.g., when the error between the observed clearance ĉ of the motor of linear compressor 100 and a reference clearance c_ref is greater than (e.g., or outside) a threshold clearance error. Thus, clearance controller 730 operates the motor linear compressor 100 to avoid head crashing. When, the error between the observed clearance ĉ of the motor of linear compressor 100 and the reference clearance c_ref is less than (e.g., or inside) the threshold clearance error, method 700 may maintain linear compressor 100 at current operation conditions, e.g., such that the supply voltage v_output is stable or regular.

The threshold clearance error may be any suitable clearance. For example, the voltage selector of clearance controller 730 may utilize multiple threshold clearance errors in order to more finely or accurately adjust the supply voltage v_output to achieve a desired clearance. In particular, a first threshold clearance error, a second threshold clearance error and a third threshold clearance error may be provided and sequentially evaluated by the voltage selector of clearance controller 730 to adjust a magnitude of a change to the current i_a during method 700. The first threshold clearance error may be about two millimeters, and clearance controller 730 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the current i_a by about twenty milliamps until the error between the observed clearance ĉ of the motor of linear compressor 100 and the reference clearance c_ref is less than the first threshold clearance error. The second threshold clearance error may be about one millimeter, and clearance controller 730 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the current i_a by about ten milliamps until the error between the observed clearance ĉ of the motor of linear compressor 100 and the reference clearance c_ref is less than the second threshold clearance error. The third threshold clearance error may be about a tenth of a millimeter, and clearance controller 730 may successively adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the current i_a by about five milliamps until the error between the observed clearance ĉ of the motor of linear compressor 100 and the reference clearance c_ref is less than the third threshold clearance error. As used herein, the term “about” means within ten percent of the stated current when used in the context of currents.

As discussed above, current controller 710 determines or regulates the amplitude of the supply voltage v_output when the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref is i greater than (e.g., or outside) a threshold current error. By modifying the reference peak current i_a,ref, clearance controller 730 may force the error between the peak current i_a,peak and the reference peak current i_a,ref to be greater than (e.g., or outside) the threshold current error. Thus, priority may shift back to current controller 710 after clearance controller 730 adjusts the reference peak current i_a,ref, e.g., until current controller 710 again settles the current induced in the motor of linear compressor 100 as described above.

It should be understood that method 700 may be performed with the motor of linear compressor 100 sealed within a hermitic shell of linear compressor 100. Thus, method 700 may be performed without directly measuring velocities or positions of moving components of linear compressor 100. Utilizing method 700, the supply voltage v_output may be adjusted by current controller 710, resonance controller 720 and/or clearance controller 730 in order to operate the motor of linear compressor 100 at a resonant frequency of the motor of linear compressor 100 without or limited head crashing. Thus, method 700 provides robust control of clearance and resonant tracking, e.g., without interference and run away conditions. For example, current controller 710 may be always running and tracking the peak current i_a,peak, e.g., as a PI controller, and resonant controller 720 and clearance controller 730 provide lower priority controls, with resonant controller 720 having a higher priority relative to clearance controller 730.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for operating a linear compressor, comprising: providing a current controller, a resonance controller and a clearance controller, the current controller configured for adjusting an amplitude of a supply voltage to the linear compressor, the resonance controller configured for adjusting a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor;utilizing the current controller to adjust the amplitude of the supply voltage to the linear compressor, the current controller reducing a difference between a peak current induced in the linear compressor and a reference peak current to less than a threshold current error;utilizing the resonance controller to adjust a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor after the difference between the peak current induced in the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error, the resonance controller reducing a phase difference between a reference phase and a phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and a current induced in the linear compressor to less than a threshold phase error; andutilizing the clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the reference phase and the phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of utilizing the clearance controller comprises utilizing the clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error unless a difference between an observed clearance of the linear compressor and a reference clearance is less than a threshold clearance error.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the threshold phase error is no greater than about one degree and the threshold clearance error is no greater than about one millimeter.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising reverting to the current controller to adjust the amplitude of the supply voltage to the linear compressor whenever the difference between the peak current induced in the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the reference clearance is selectable by a user of the linear compressor.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the reference phase is no greater than about ten degrees.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein said steps of utilizing the current controller, utilizing the resonance controller and utilizing the clearance controller are performed with a motor of the linear compressor sealed within a hermitic shell of the linear compressor.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing an electrical dynamic model for a motor of the linear compressor;supplying the motor of the linear compressor with a time varying voltage;estimating a back-EMF of the motor of the linear compressor during said step of supplying using at least the electrical dynamic model for the motor of the linear compressor and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback;determining the observed velocity of the linear compressor based at least in part on the back-EMF of the motor from said step of estimating.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: providing a mechanical dynamic model for the linear compressor;measuring a current induced in the motor of the linear compressor during said step of supplying;estimating an acceleration of the motor of the linear compressor using at least the mechanical dynamic model for the linear compressor and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback; anddetermining the observed clearance of the linear compressor based at least in part on the current induced in the motor of the linear compressor from said step of measuring and the acceleration of the motor from said step of estimating.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the linear compressor does not include a sensor for measuring the clearance of the motor of the linear compressor or for measuring the velocity of the motor of the linear compressor.

11. A method for operating a linear compressor, comprising: utilizing a current controller to adjust an amplitude of a supply voltage to the linear compressor such that a difference between a peak current induced in a motor of the linear compressor and a reference peak current is reduced to less than a threshold current error;utilizing a resonance controller to adjust a frequency of the supply voltage to the linear compressor such that a phase difference between a reference phase and a phase between an observed velocity of the linear compressor and a current induced in the motor of the linear compressor is reduced to less than a threshold phase error after the difference between the peak current induced in the motor of the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error; andutilizing a clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the reference phase and the phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the motor of the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein said step of utilizing the clearance controller comprises utilizing the clearance controller to adjust the reference peak current after the phase difference between the reference phase and the phase between the observed velocity of the linear compressor and the current induced in the motor of the linear compressor is less than the threshold phase error unless a difference between an observed clearance of the linear compressor and a reference clearance is less than a threshold clearance error.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the threshold phase error is no greater than about one degree and the threshold clearance error is no greater than about one millimeter.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising reverting to the current controller to adjust the amplitude of the supply voltage to the linear compressor whenever the difference between the peak current induced in the motor of the linear compressor and the reference peak current is less than the threshold current error.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the reference clearance is selectable by a user of the linear compressor.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein the reference phase is no less than about ten degrees.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein said steps of utilizing the current controller, utilizing the resonance controller and utilizing the clearance controller are conducted with a motor of the linear compressor sealed within a hermitic shell of the linear compressor.

18. The method of claim 11, further comprising: providing an electrical dynamic model for a motor of the linear compressor;supplying the motor of the linear compressor with a time varying voltage;estimating a back-EMF of the motor of the linear compressor during said step of supplying using at least the electrical dynamic model for the motor of the linear compressor and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback;determining the observed velocity of the linear compressor based at least in part on the back-EMF of the motor from said step of estimating.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: providing a mechanical dynamic model for the linear compressor;measuring a current induced in the motor of the linear compressor during said step of supplying;estimating an acceleration of the motor of the linear compressor using at least the mechanical dynamic model for the linear compressor and a robust integral of the sign of the error feedback; anddetermining the observed clearance of the linear compressor based at least in part on the current induced in the motor of the linear compressor from said step of measuring and the acceleration of the motor from said step of estimating.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the linear compressor does not include a sensor for measuring the clearance of the motor of the linear compressor or for measuring the velocity of the motor of the linear compressor.