Export Power Module Control for Transport Refrigeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems often produce excess electric power that is not utilized efficiently, leading to inefficiencies and potential waste.
Innovation Solution
A transport refrigeration system with an export power module (EPM) and controller that manages power distribution by determining power requests from auxiliary devices, comparing available power with requested power, and controlling the export of power to these devices, including the use of an auxiliary power source when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If an engine driven generator is used to produce electric power, then power is available to refrigeration components, but excess power is not utilized efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The generator is designed to serve multiple functions: powering refrigeration components and exporting excess power to auxiliary devices. The export power module enables the system to adapt to different power demand scenarios, allowing the same power source to fulfill both primary refrigeration needs and secondary auxiliary device needs, thereby eliminating energy waste while maintaining system versatility.
2Loss of energy
If power is exported to auxiliary devices, then excess power is utilized, but power distribution control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the export power module that handles power export decisions, the power control device that manages power flow, and the auxiliary devices that consume power. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently, simplifying the overall control architecture while enabling efficient power utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors power availability from the generator and power demands from auxiliary devices, then adjusts power distribution accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures optimal power utilization without requiring complex manual intervention, as the system automatically balances power supply and demand based on real-time conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport refrigeration system includes a refrigeration unit including a controller configured to control the refrigeration unit; an electric power device configured to provide power to a refrigeration component of the refrigeration unit; an export power module (EPM) including: an EPM controller in communication with the controller; a power control device configured to receive power from the electric power device; an auxiliary device coupled to the power control device; wherein the controller is configured to communicate with the EPM controller to control power supplied from the electric power device to the auxiliary device.