Transport Refrigeration Compressor Power Allocation Under Generator Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face inefficiencies and potential damage due to fixed power allocation to compressors, leading to overloading of electric drive motors and engines, which can reduce lifespan and exceed emissions limits.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic power allocation system that monitors current draw from generator-powered components and adjusts the maximum allowable power to the compressor based on real-time data, preventing overloading and optimizing power efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a predefined limit is set for the amount of power allocated to the compressor, then the electric drive motor is protected from overloading, but the power efficiency of the electric drive motor cannot be maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power allocation by continuously monitoring current draw from generator-powered components and adjusting the maximum allowable power to the compressor in real-time. This replaces static predefined limits with a dynamic control system that adapts to changing operational conditions, allowing the compressor to receive optimal power without overloading the electric drive motor or exceeding generator capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms by monitoring the actual current draw from generator-powered components and using this information to adjust power allocation to the compressor. The controller continuously compares current consumption against available generator capacity and modifies compressor power limits accordingly, ensuring efficient utilization while preventing overload conditions.
2Productivity
If maximum power is continuously allocated to the compressor, then cooling performance is optimized, but the engine or electric drive motor may become overloaded
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts compressor power allocation based on real-time monitoring of generator-powered component current draw. When generator load is low, maximum power is allocated to the compressor for optimal cooling performance. When generator load increases, the system automatically reduces compressor power limits to prevent overloading the electric drive motor or engine, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the power allocation parameter for the compressor based on operational conditions. By calculating maximum available horsepower as a function of current generator load and adjusting the compressor power limit accordingly, the system optimizes cooling performance when possible while preventing overload conditions when generator capacity is constrained.
3Device complexity
If fixed power allocation is used for simplicity, then system complexity is reduced, but power efficiency and adaptability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The existing generator and its current monitoring capabilities serve multiple functions: generating power for TRS components, charging the TRU battery, and providing data for dynamic power allocation control. By utilizing the generator's inherent monitoring capability for dual purposes (power generation and power allocation control), the system achieves adaptive efficiency without adding significant complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for dynamic power allocation in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) is provided. The method includes a TRS power source operating in an operational state. The method also includes monitoring an amount of current being drawn from one or more generator powered components of the TRS. Also, the method includes calculating, via a TRS controller of the TRS, a maximum available horsepower amount based on the amount of current being drawn from the one or more generator powered components. Further, the method includes controlling, via the TRS controller, an amount of horsepower directed to a compressor of the TRS based on the maximum available horsepower amount.