Reefer Container Power Sensing for Automatic Shore Power Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerated shipping containers often continue to run on diesel generators when stationary and near shore power outlets, leading to inefficient use of energy, as operators fail to switch to the more economical shore power source.
Innovation Solution
An automated and remote system for identifying and switching the power source between diesel generators and shore power, utilizing power detection modules that monitor voltage, current, and frequency transients to determine the current power source and notify operators to switch to shore power when available, using wireless communication and a switch mounted on the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the genset is left on to power the refrigerated container during temporary storage, then the container can be powered continuously, but diesel fuel is consumed unnecessarily when shore power is available
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the availability of shore power and switches the power source without requiring manual operator intervention. The controller monitors power sources and autonomously selects the most economical option, making the system self-serve its own power management needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the operational status of both genset and shore power outlets, and based on this feedback, the controller automatically switches between power sources to minimize diesel fuel consumption while ensuring continuous power supply to the refrigerated container.
2Loss of energy
If an automated power source switching system is implemented, then diesel fuel consumption is reduced by switching to shore power, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switching systems with electronic sensing and control mechanisms. Power detection modules electronically identify available power sources, and an electronic controller manages the switching logic, reducing mechanical complexity while achieving automated power source optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors the operational status of the genset, detects the availability of shore power outlets, determines the most economical power source, and executes switching operations. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate devices into a single integrated system.
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 system ensures that refrigerated containers use the most economical power source, reducing diesel fuel consumption and operational costs by automatically identifying and switching to shore power when available, thereby optimizing energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
power detection modules that monitor voltage, current, and frequency transients to determine the current power source
Implementation Method 2
power detection modules that monitor voltage, current, and frequency transients to determine the current power source
Implementation Method 3
power detection modules that monitor voltage, current, and frequency transients to determine the current power source
Data Source
AI summary
An automated and/or remote method for identifying and/or changing the source of power for these generator sets, which may apply to any environment where there are alternative sources of power available which must be managed remotely (such as for other powered containers not used for refrigeration transport).