Achieving optimal cabin comfort in modern vehicles requires more than just cooling or heating; it demands precise humidity control. The vehicle’s HVAC system must efficiently manage moisture to ensure passenger health, safety, and system longevity. It is crucial that the system prevents the formation of frost on the evaporator coil, which severely hampers cooling performance, and minimize excessive moisture, causing mold and mildew growth in the air ducts.
The technical solution lies in accurate dewpoint detection.
Dewpoint is the temperature at which water vapor in the air will turn into liquid condensation. By monitoring the air temperature near the evaporator, the HVAC system needs to know exactly how close it is to the dewpoint to maintain ideal conditions.
Precise dewpoint measurement allows the system to intelligently adjust the air-mix and compressor cycle, ensuring maximum cooling efficiency without risking freezing or excessive condensation. This dynamic, demand-controlled approach significantly boosts energy efficiency by avoiding unnecessary compressor run-time. The goal is to maximize performance while minimizing the risk of internal humidity issues, which cause unhealthy air and passenger discomfort.
The DPS1 is an automotive-qualified solution for this exact challenge. Installed directly within the air duct, the DPS1 provides a highly accurate, fast-response dewpoint signal to the main control unit.
Figure 1: Automotive HVAC sensors
As a specialist in environmental and flow sensor technology, ScioSense enables companies to use the planet’s resources more sustainably, helping to create a healthier future for all.
