Container Generator Set Start-Stop Control for Cooling Demand
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Solution Overview
Problem
Temperature-controlled shipping containers face challenges in maintaining consistent refrigeration during extended transit periods without a reliable external power source, often relying on diesel generator sets that operate continuously, leading to inefficiencies and increased fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A generator set with a prime mover and controller that operates in a start/stop mode based on cooling demand, automatically starting and stopping to power the air-conditioning unit, optimizing energy use and reducing unnecessary operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the generator set operates continuously to power the air-conditioning unit during extended transit, then the temperature controlled space is maintained, but fuel consumption increases and energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator set operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously. The controller monitors cooling demand and activates the generator only when the air-conditioning unit requires power, creating on-demand periodic operation that reduces fuel consumption while maintaining temperature control reliability when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own internal state (cooling demand detection) to automatically control its power supply. The controller self-regulates generator operation based on whether the air-conditioning unit needs power, eliminating the need for external intervention and optimizing energy use
2Reliability
If the generator set operates continuously, then power is always available for the air-conditioning unit, but energy waste occurs during periods of low or no cooling demand
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements feedback control by monitoring the cooling demand of the air-conditioning unit and using this information to regulate generator operation. When cooling demand is low or zero, the controller stops the generator, preventing energy waste while ensuring power availability when cooling is required
Solution Approach 2:
The generator operation transitions from static continuous operation to dynamic on-demand operation. The system adapts its power generation activity based on real-time cooling requirements, optimizing the balance between power availability and energy conservation
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
This solution provides significant fuel savings and efficient temperature control by matching generator operation with actual cooling demands, reducing energy consumption and extending the operational life of the generator sets.
Implementation Method 1
an electric compressor, a condenser receiving a flow of refrigerant from the electric compressor
Implementation Method 2
a condenser receiving a flow of refrigerant from the electric compressor
Implementation Method 3
a condenser receiving a flow of refrigerant from the electric compressor
Implementation Method 4
an evaporator receiving the flow of refrigerant from the condenser to remove heat from the temperature controlled space
Implementation Method 5
an evaporator receiving the flow of refrigerant from the condenser to remove heat from the temperature controlled space
Data Source
AI summary
A generator set including a prime mover, a generator coupled to the prime mover, and a controller that is associated with a temperature controlled space and operates the generator set in one of a start/stop mode and a continuous mode depending on a demand defined at least in part by contents within the temperature controlled space.