Power Converter Control for Reactive Current in Transport Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face inefficiencies due to inductive or reactive loads that result in power factor imbalances, leading to higher electrical current draw and inefficient power transfer, which can be exacerbated by the need for additional power factor correction circuits.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power converter system that monitors and adjusts the power factor based on varying AC and DC load requirements, supplying reactive current to inductive loads without additional correction circuits, thereby improving power efficiency and reducing the need for components like automotive alternators with brushes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If additional power factor correction circuits (e.g., capacitor bank) are used to correct lagging power factor, then power efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it converts AC to DC power for DC loads while simultaneously providing power factor correction for AC loads. The controller adjusts the converter's operation to supply reactive current, enabling a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate power conversion and power factor correction circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the power factor correction function with the existing power converter unit. Instead of adding separate correction circuits, the reactive current supply capability is integrated into the power converter's control strategy, merging two functions into one device.
2Reliability
If power factor correction circuits are added to meet regulations, then compliance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it converts AC to DC power for DC loads while simultaneously providing power factor correction for AC loads. The controller adjusts the converter's operation to supply reactive current, enabling a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate power conversion and power factor correction circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter system is self-regulating in terms of power factor correction. The controller continuously monitors the AC input and automatically adjusts the converter's operation to maintain proper power factor, eliminating the need for external correction circuits and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Loss of energy
If the power converter supplies reactive current to inductive loads, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but the converter operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller monitors the AC input power and load conditions, then adjusts the power converter's operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the converter to dynamically supply the appropriate amount of reactive current to maintain optimal power factor without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter's operation is made dynamic through the controller's ability to adjust its function based on real-time conditions. The converter can operate in different modes (power conversion only, or power conversion plus power factor correction) depending on the AC and DC load requirements and available power.
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 approach enhances power management efficiency, leading to fuel savings and compliance with power factor correction regulations while maintaining system reliability and reducing costs by utilizing existing power converters.
Implementation Method 1
The power converter is configured to receive the varying AC power signal from the AC distribution network, convert the varying AC power signal into a DC power signal
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for power management using a power converter in transport are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes monitoring a varying AC input to the power converter. The method also includes calculating a power factor adjustment based on the monitored varying AC input. Also, the method includes a power converter controller adjusting the power converter based on the calculated power factor adjustment to cause the power converter to supply a reactive current to a varying AC load.