Distributed Battery Modules for Transport Climate Control Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport climate control systems face challenges in providing power and accommodating accessories beneath transport units due to the need for large, centralized battery systems, which compromise the installation of other required or desired climate control accessories.
Innovation Solution
A distributed battery management system (BMS) with smaller, self-contained battery modules that can be spatially distributed and customized according to specifications, allowing for the installation of other accessories while providing sufficient power to the climate control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a large centralized battery system is used to provide sufficient power for the climate control system, then the power capacity is adequate, but the space required for installation increases and compromises the installation of other accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large centralized battery system into multiple smaller modular battery units that can be distributed throughout the transport unit. Each module contains its own battery cells and management circuitry, allowing the system to provide the same total power capacity while occupying less concentrated space and allowing flexibility in installation locations for other accessories.
2Reliability
If battery modules are mounted at lower positions to be protected, then durability and crash resistance are improved, but the weight of the transport unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical space by mounting battery modules above certain heights in the transport unit, moving them from the traditional lower position. This dimensional change allows the modules to be positioned in previously unused space, reducing the need for heavy protective structures while maintaining accessibility and safety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a distributed battery system is implemented to allow flexible installation, then the adaptability of the system increases, but the complexity of coordinating power distribution among multiple modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple distributed battery modules into a coordinated system through a central controller that manages power distribution. The controller receives data from each module and coordinates their operation as a unified system, maintaining installation flexibility while simplifying the complexity of power management through centralized oversight.
Data Source
AI summary
A power system for a transport climate control system (TCS) includes a distributed battery system that has multiple battery modules separately attached to a chassis. Separately, battery modules are each configured to activate upon activation of a load, exchange self-identifying information with the other battery modules to identify a lead battery module, and exchange internal and performance-related data with the other battery modules. The lead battery module is configured to identify as the lead battery module to the load, transmit internal and performance-related data of the multiple battery modules to the load, and coordinate collective power distribution from one or more battery modules.