Method and system for dynamic power allocation in a transport refrigeration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face inefficiencies and potential damage due to fixed power allocation to compressors, leading to overloading of electric drive motors and engines, which can reduce lifespan and exceed emissions limits.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic power allocation system that monitors current draw from generator-powered components and calculates a maximum available power to allocate efficiently to the compressor, preventing overloading and optimizing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed power allocation is used to the compressor, then the system operation is simple, but the electric drive motor can be overloaded which reduces its lifespan and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power allocation that continuously adjusts the compressor power based on real-time current draw measurements from the generator. The controller modifies the expansion valve position and compressor power demand dynamically rather than using fixed allocations, preventing motor overload while adapting to varying system conditions and generator capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the controller monitors the actual current draw from the generator and uses this information to adjust the power allocation to the compressor. This closed-loop control ensures that the electric drive motor operates within safe current limits while maximizing its potential output, thereby extending motor lifespan and preventing overload damage.
2Productivity
If a predefined power limit is set for the compressor, then the system is easier to control, but the electric drive motor cannot utilize its true potential and may overload
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces static predefined power limits with dynamic power allocation that adjusts in real-time based on actual generator output and system conditions. This allows the electric drive motor to operate at its true potential without artificial constraints while preventing overload through continuous monitoring and adjustment of the expansion valve and compressor power demand.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the operating parameters of the compressor system by dynamically adjusting the expansion valve position and power demand based on real-time current measurements. This parameter adaptation enables the electric drive motor to operate efficiently across varying conditions without being constrained by fixed power limits, thereby maximizing productivity while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Power
If the generator provides maximum power to all components, then the power availability is maximized, but the engine can be overloaded which exceeds emissions limits
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic power allocation that continuously adjusts the compressor power demand based on real-time measurements of generator output and engine capacity. By modifying the expansion valve position and power demand dynamically, the system ensures that the engine operates within emissions-compliant limits while maximizing the available power to the compressor under varying operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses feedback from current draw measurements to regulate the power allocation to the compressor. This feedback mechanism prevents engine overload by adjusting the compressor power demand to match the generator's safe operating capacity, thereby preventing emissions violations while still providing maximum available power to the compressor within environmental compliance limits.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for dynamic power allocation in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) is provided. The method includes a TRS power source operating in an operational state. The method also includes monitoring an amount of current being drawn from one or more generator powered components of the TRS. Also, the method includes calculating, via a TRS controller of the TRS, a maximum available horsepower amount based on the amount of current being drawn from the one or more generator powered components. Further, the method includes controlling, via the TRS controller, an amount of horsepower directed to a compressor of the TRS based on the maximum available horsepower amount.