Regenerative Trailer Refrigeration Drive Using Wheel-Generated Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refrigeration systems in transport trailers and conveyance vessels rely on independent diesel engines, leading to inefficient energy use and increased air pollution, as they require fossil fuels to power both the tractor and the refrigeration system.
Innovation Solution
A regenerative electric drive motor unit that harnesses the kinetic energy from wheel rotations to power an on-board electricity generator, which supplies power to the refrigeration system, reducing the need for diesel engine operation during road use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an independent diesel engine is used to power the refrigeration system, then the refrigeration system can operate independently, but fuel consumption and air pollution increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the refrigeration system with the vehicle's motion energy by connecting a generator to the vehicle's wheels through a transmission system. The generator converts mechanical energy from wheel rotation into electrical energy to power the refrigeration system, eliminating the need for an independent diesel engine and thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously wasted kinetic energy of vehicle motion into useful electrical energy. By capturing energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle movement and using it to power the refrigeration system, the system transforms a wasted resource into a beneficial power source, reducing overall energy consumption.
2Reliability
If an independent diesel engine is used to power the refrigeration system, then the refrigeration system can operate independently, but air pollution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the refrigeration system with the vehicle's motion energy by connecting a generator to the vehicle's wheels through a transmission system. The generator converts mechanical energy from wheel rotation into electrical energy to power the refrigeration system, eliminating the need for an independent diesel engine and thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously wasted kinetic energy of vehicle motion into useful electrical energy. By capturing energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle movement and using it to power the refrigeration system, the system transforms a wasted resource into a beneficial power source, reducing overall energy consumption.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a third member differential mounted regenerative motor is used, then kinetic energy from wheel rotations can be captured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the regenerative motor into the existing differential assembly of the vehicle's transmission system. The differential assembly serves dual functions: traditional wheel speed differentiation and regenerative energy capture. This multi-functionality approach allows energy harvesting capability to be added without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a separate trailing wheel mounted under a carriage is used, then kinetic energy from wheel rotations can be captured, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pneumatic or hydraulic lift system to raise and lower the trailing wheel assembly. This allows the energy harvesting system to be deployed when needed (when the wheel contacts the road surface) and retracted when not needed, reducing the impact of added complexity and weight on the vehicle's overall performance.
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
Significantly reduces fuel expenses and air pollution by utilizing kinetic energy to power refrigeration systems, while maintaining reliable cooling capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an electricity generator powered by the rotation of a wheel or wheels in contact with the road surface generates the electricity required for the refrigeration system
Implementation Method 2
raised and lowered with a pneumatic or hydraulic lift system
Implementation Method 3
raised and lowered with a pneumatic or hydraulic lift system
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention affords a regenerative electric drive refrigerated unit for a conveyance vessel, thereby providing temperature cooling in a compartment of the conveyance vessel. An electricity generator powers a compressor unit in the refrigeration unit. The electricity generator is powered by a drive mechanism obtaining its energy from the motion of the conveyance vessel such that when the invention is employed, a diesel engine that normally powers the compressor unit in the refrigeration unit is disabled and stops running, thereby saving energy and reducing air pollution otherwise generated by the burning of fossil fuels when the diesel engine is running.