Linear Generator Kinetic Energy Harvesting for Transport Refrigeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transportation refrigeration systems rely on diesel or gasoline engines, which generate emissions that can be undesirable in urban environments and confined spaces, necessitating a more environmentally friendly and efficient solution.
Innovation Solution
An electric transportation refrigeration system utilizing a linear generator to convert movement into electrical power, eliminating the need for a traditional engine by harnessing kinetic energy from a wheel through a linkage system, including a coil and permanent magnet, and storing energy in a battery for use by refrigeration system components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a diesel or gasoline engine is used to drive refrigeration system devices, then mechanical power is provided to operate fans and compressors, but engine emissions are released into the immediate environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional internal combustion engine (mechanical system) with an electric generator system that converts kinetic energy from vehicle motion into electrical power. This substitution eliminates the need for fossil fuel combustion and associated emissions while providing the necessary power for refrigeration system devices through electrical motors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary energy conversion system consisting of a generator and motor couplet. The generator converts kinetic energy to electrical energy, which then powers the motor that drives refrigeration devices. This intermediary electrical energy pathway replaces direct mechanical coupling from an engine, eliminating emissions while maintaining functional power transmission
2Ease of operation
If a traditional engine is co-located with the refrigeration system, then power is provided to refrigeration devices, but emissions must be released into the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful emissions-generating component (internal combustion engine) from the refrigeration system and replaces it with an emissions-free electrical power generation system. The engine is completely removed and replaced by a generator-motor couplet that provides power without producing any emissions, thereby eliminating the harmful factor while preserving the power provision function
3Productivity
If mechanical power is transmitted through couplings and shafts, then refrigeration devices are driven directly, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical power transmission components (couplings, shafts, belts, pulleys) with an electrical power transmission system. The generator produces electrical power that is transmitted through wires to motors, which then drive the refrigeration devices. This substitution dramatically reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining efficient power transmission and adding operational flexibility
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 reduces the reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing emissions and providing a more efficient operation for refrigeration systems in vehicles and containers by converting kinetic energy into electrical power for refrigeration components.
Implementation Method 1
a linear generator electrically connected to the refrigeration system component; a linkage operably connected to the linear generator to convert movement of the transportation refrigeration system into electrical power
Implementation Method 2
The linear generator includes a coil extending about a reciprocation axis and electrically connected to the refrigeration system component, and a permanent magnet disposed along the reciprocation axis and connected to the linkage for reciprocation along the magnet axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A transportation refrigeration system (100, 200, 300) includes a refrigeration system component (110), a linear generator (104, 202, 310) electrically connected to the refrigeration system component (110), and a linkage (142, 214). The linkage (142, 214) is operably connected to the linear generator (104, 202, 310) to convert movement of the transportation refrigeration system (100, 200, 300) into electrical power for communication to the refrigeration system component (110). An electric transportation refrigeration system used to cool a trailer box are also described.