Multi-source power management for a transport refrigeration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face challenges in managing power effectively when utility power is limited, leading to high costs and potential violations of emission and noise regulations, especially when the primary energy source's operation is restricted.
Innovation Solution
A power management system that selectively uses a primary energy source or utility power based on available utility power, cost, and regulatory considerations to ensure efficient climate conditioning of the internal space without exceeding regulatory limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If the transport refrigeration system utilizes utility power when parked, then the system can operate without prime mover emissions and noise issues, but the amount of utility power available may be limited and additional premiums may be charged
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between utility power and prime mover operation based on real-time conditions including utility power availability, cost signals, emission regulations, and climate conditioning requirements. The controller continuously monitors these parameters and adjusts the power source selection to optimize both cost and compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching power sources based on varying conditions such as utility power cost, availability, emission regulations, and climate conditioning needs. This allows the system to adapt to different operational environments and regulatory requirements.
2Loss of energy
If the facility limits the amount of utility power available to parked TRS, then demand charges are prevented, but the TRS may not have sufficient power for climate conditioning
Solution Approach 1:
The prime mover acts as an intermediary power source when utility power is limited. The system uses the prime mover to supplement or replace utility power during periods when utility power is restricted, ensuring continuous reliable operation while preventing demand charge violations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts between utility power and prime mover operation based on real-time utility power availability and climate conditioning requirements, ensuring reliable operation while complying with facility power limits.
3Reliability
If the prime mover is operated to provide power when utility power is limited or expensive, then the TRS can maintain climate conditioning, but emissions and noise may exceed local regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors emission and noise regulations along with utility power conditions and climate conditioning requirements. This feedback loop enables the system to make informed decisions about prime mover operation, switching to utility power when regulations would be violated and using prime mover power when compliance is maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts prime mover operation based on real-time regulatory compliance status, utility power availability, and climate conditioning needs, ensuring continuous reliable operation while maintaining regulatory compliance.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the TRS selectively utilizes the prime energy source to compensate for limited utility power, then costs from additional premiums are avoided, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs multiple functions including monitoring utility power availability and cost, determining emission and noise regulation compliance, assessing climate conditioning requirements, and selecting the appropriate power source. This multi-functionality consolidates the power management system despite its complex decision-making requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for power management of a transport refrigeration system electrically connected to a utility power source. The method including determining an operating mode for the transport refrigeration system based on one or more of an amount of utility power available from the utility power source to the transport refrigeration system, a current cost of the utility power, and a noise or emission regulation for operating a prime mover. A transport refrigeration system unit that includes a transport refrigeration unit and a controller configured to receive power from a utility power source or a primary energy source. The controller also configured to determine an operating mode for the transport refrigeration system based on one or more of an amount of utility power available from the utility power source to the transport refrigeration system, a current cost of the utility power, and a noise or emission regulation for operating the prime mover.