DC Fan Power Architecture for Transport Refrigeration Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional transport refrigeration systems rely on mechanical transmission for fan power, which can be inefficient and costly, and often use AC powered fans that may not offer flexible power management.
Innovation Solution
The system employs DC powered fans, including evaporator, condenser, and ventilation fans, powered by a DC alternator or battery, with optional AC generators and controllers for efficient power management and reduced fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If mechanical transmission is used to power fans, then the system structure is simple, but the energy efficiency is low and fuel consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical transmission system (belts, pulleys, shafts) with an electrical power transmission system. The engine drives an alternator that generates electrical power, which then powers electric motors connected to the fans. This substitution eliminates mechanical losses and allows for more efficient power transmission, directly resolving the contradiction by improving energy efficiency while accepting increased electrical system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power transmission parameter from mechanical (rotational mechanical power through belts and shafts) to electrical (electrical power through alternator and motors). This parameter change enables more efficient power delivery to the fans and allows for independent control of each fan's power consumption, thereby improving overall energy efficiency of the refrigeration system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If AC powered fans are used, then the fans can operate at high speeds, but the power management flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by equipping each fan with its own electric motor that can be independently controlled. The system can adjust fan speeds dynamically based on operational requirements, allowing some fans to run at high speeds while others operate at lower speeds or remain off. This dynamic control capability provides the requested power management flexibility while maintaining necessary fan speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power management system by providing individual electric motors for each fan rather than using a single AC power source. This segmentation allows independent control of each fan's power consumption and speed, enabling flexible power management strategies such as running only necessary fans at any given time, thereby achieving both speed control and adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If fans are mechanically coupled to the engine, then the system structure is simple, but the fans cannot operate independently of the engine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical coupling between the engine and fans with an electrical power transmission system. The engine drives an alternator that generates electrical power, which is then distributed to independent electric motors on each fan. This allows fans to operate independently of the engine's mechanical output while maintaining operational simplicity through centralized electrical power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical power system as an intermediary between the engine and the fans. The alternator converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy, which then powers the electric motors. This intermediary electrical system decouples the mechanical connection, allowing fans to operate independently while still being powered by the engine, thus achieving operational independence without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport refrigeration system having one or more compressors forming part of a refrigeration circuit for cooling an interior compartment of a container or refrigerated trailer; and one or more fans powered by direct current (DC) power, the one or more fans being at least one of an evaporator fan, a condenser fan and a ventilation fan.