Integrated automated idle reduction system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty off-road equipment experiences excessive engine idle time due to operator traditions, mechanical concerns, and environmental conditions, leading to fuel wastage, increased maintenance costs, and environmental pollution, with existing solutions being inadequate for integrated and automated idle reduction.
Innovation Solution
An integrated automated idle reduction system that uses an electrical circuit system to automate engine shutdown and power alternative components, including an auxiliary power unit, relays, and sensors, to manage idling conditions and provide comfort and safety features while reducing engine idle time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the engine is kept running during idle periods to ensure immediate operational readiness and operator comfort, then equipment availability and operator comfort are improved, but fuel consumption and emissions increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-heating the engine block and coolant, pre-charging the battery, and pre-conditioning the cab using auxiliary power sources before the main engine is started. This allows the engine to be shut off during idle periods while maintaining readiness for immediate operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediary components including auxiliary power units, battery systems, thermal energy storage devices, and control modules that mediate between the need for engine availability and the desire to reduce idle fuel consumption. These intermediaries enable the engine to be off during idle periods while maintaining operational readiness.
2Loss of energy
If the engine is shut off during idle periods to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, then fuel efficiency and environmental impact are improved, but equipment availability and operator comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses intermediary components such as auxiliary power units, battery systems, and thermal energy storage devices to maintain operator comfort and equipment functionality during idle periods when the main engine is shut off. These intermediaries provide power for cab heating/cooling, lighting, and other operator needs without requiring the main engine to run.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical engine-driven systems with electrical and thermal energy storage systems. Instead of using the engine to power auxiliary systems during idle periods, the system uses stored electrical energy in batteries and stored thermal energy in thermal batteries or insulated fluid systems.
3Device complexity
If stand-alone systems are used for engine shutdown control, then system complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide integrated and automated idle reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple previously separate functions into a single integrated control system. The control module integrates engine shutdown/startup control, auxiliary power unit management, thermal energy storage control, battery management, and operator comfort system control into one coordinated system that automatically manages all aspects of idle reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed as a universal multi-functional unit that can manage diverse subsystems including the main engine, auxiliary power units, thermal storage systems, battery systems, and operator comfort systems. This single module performs multiple functions that would otherwise require separate control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated automated idle reduction system is disclosed. The system may include an APU and various controllers providing automation. The system may enable automating features, such as automatically controlling various power sources, engine start, engine stop, the APU, and accessory systems. The APU may be an engine, battery and/or other power source that is selectably connectable to vehicle systems to provide electrical power while the OEM engine of the vehicle is not running. The APU may also provide electrical power while the OEM engine is not running. Additionally, the APU may drive an air conditioning compressor while the OEM engine is not running, such as to keep the cab of a vehicle cool. Prior cold starting the OEM engine, the APU may warm engine coolant, and the integrated automated idle reduction system may circulate the warmed coolant through the OEM engine in preparation for starting.