Transport Refrigeration Battery Temperature Control via Power Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport refrigeration systems face performance and lifespan issues due to battery damage from extreme temperatures, which affect the chemical reaction and power output of batteries.
Innovation Solution
Implementing power electronics to control battery temperature using a controller that adjusts cooling rates and switching frequencies based on ambient temperature, utilizing fans, pumps, and heat generation to maintain optimal operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If batteries are used to power components in extreme temperatures, then the transport refrigeration system can operate, but the battery performance and lifespan deteriorate due to temperature damage
Solution Approach 1:
A temperature control system acts as an intermediary between the battery and the extreme temperature environment. The system uses sensors to detect battery temperature and activates cooling or heating mechanisms to maintain the battery within optimal temperature ranges, preventing temperature-related damage while allowing continuous system operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters based on temperature conditions. When extreme temperatures are detected, the controller modifies battery usage patterns, activates thermal management systems, and adjusts power delivery parameters to protect battery performance and extend lifespan
2Reliability
If cooling systems are added to control battery temperature, then battery reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control system is integrated with existing transport refrigeration components. The same cooling mechanisms that cool the refrigeration compartment are utilized to cool the battery, and heating elements serve dual purposes for both compartment and battery temperature management, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The battery temperature control functions are merged with the main refrigeration control system. Sensors, controllers, and actuation mechanisms are shared between the refrigeration management and battery thermal management, eliminating redundant components and simplifying the overall system architecture
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances battery performance and reliability by preventing damage from extreme temperatures, ensuring consistent power supply to the transport refrigeration system.
Implementation Method 1
the controller adjusts... switching frequencies... to maintain optimal operating conditions
Implementation Method 2
utilizing fans, pumps, and heat generation to maintain optimal operating conditions
Data Source
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AI summary
A transport refrigeration system (100) includes a compressor (104), a condenser (106) and an evaporator (108) configured to circulate a refrigerant; a motor (102) configured to drive the compressor (104); a battery (112) and power electronics (110) configured to power the motor (102); an ambient air temperature sensor (232) configured to monitor ambient air at the battery (212); a cooling unit (214) configured to cool the power electronics (110); and a controller (210) configured to: receive an ambient air temperature of a compartment (208) housing the battery (112); compare the ambient air temperature to a temperature threshold; and based at least in part on the comparing the ambient air temperature to the temperature threshold, performing at least one of (i) modifying a cooling rate of the cooling unit (214) and (ii) modify an operating parameter of the power electronics (110).