Methods and systems for automatically adapting to an input power for a transport refrigeration system
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face challenges in adapting to varying input power voltage levels and configurations, particularly when operating in different countries or regions with different power grid voltages, which can affect the performance and reliability of refrigeration units.
Innovation Solution
An automatic voltage-adapting system that detects changes in input AC power voltage and configuration, adjusting the compressor motor's winding configuration and voltage level accordingly, using a power sensing circuit and relay control circuit to ensure continuous operation and monitor power quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the TRS uses a fixed winding configuration for the compressor motor, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different input voltage levels (230V vs 400V)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by enabling the compressor motor to automatically switch between different winding configurations (Delta and Star) based on the detected input voltage level. The system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adaptable configuration through automatic detection and switching mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameter (winding configuration) of the compressor motor based on the input voltage level. By detecting whether the input voltage is 230V or 400V, the system automatically adjusts the winding configuration parameter to match the appropriate configuration, enabling voltage adaptability without requiring manual intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the TRS manually adjusts winding configuration for different voltages, then the system can adapt to different power sources, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the TRS to automatically detect the input voltage level and switch the compressor motor winding configuration without manual intervention. The system monitors the power source characteristics and autonomously adjusts its electrical parameters, eliminating the need for operators to manually change winding configurations and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the TRS continuously monitors the input voltage characteristics and uses this information to automatically adjust the winding configuration. The system receives feedback from the power source detection circuitry and responds by switching to the appropriate winding configuration, creating a closed-loop control system that simplifies operation while maintaining adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the TRS uses a single voltage level design, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot operate in different countries with different power grid voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing the TRS with the capability to operate with multiple input voltage levels (both 230V and 400V) using a single integrated system. The compressor motor and control circuitry are designed to automatically adapt to different voltage standards, allowing the same device to function internationally without requiring separate designs for different regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic voltage adaptation where the system automatically adjusts its electrical configuration based on the detected input voltage. This dynamic capability allows the TRS to transition between different voltage operating modes as needed, providing international operability while maintaining a unified device design that can handle multiple power grid standards.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of systems and methods for a TRS to automatically sense a voltage level and configuration of an input AC power provided by an AC power source and automatically adapt to the input AC power being used are provided. When the voltage level of an input AC power supplied to a TRS changes, the TRS can automatically detect the change of the voltage level, and adjust a winding configuration of a compressor motor of the TRS and a voltage level of the TRS based on the detected voltage level of the input AC power.