Shared Fuel Cell Architecture for Independent Trailer Refrigeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport refrigeration systems have increased size and complexity due to the use of distinct power sources for the vehicle and the refrigeration unit, which can be inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A transport refrigeration system with a shared power system that includes a fuel cell for both the refrigeration unit and the tractor, allowing for a single fuel source and integrated power electronics to manage power distribution, enabling the refrigeration unit to operate independently of the tractor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distinct power sources are used for the vehicle and the transport refrigeration unit, then the refrigeration unit can operate independently, but the system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell system is designed to serve dual purposes: powering both the vehicle (tractor) and the refrigeration unit. The fuel cell stack, fuel tanks, and power electronics form a shared power system that can dynamically allocate power to different loads, eliminating the need for separate power sources while maintaining independent operation capability through battery coupling.
2Reliability
If distinct power sources are used for the vehicle and the transport refrigeration unit, then each unit has dedicated power supply, but the overall system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vehicle power system and refrigeration power system into a single integrated fuel cell system. The fuel cell stack, fuel storage, and power management components are shared between both applications, significantly reducing the total system volume compared to having separate power sources while maintaining reliable power supply to both the vehicle and refrigeration unit.
3Device complexity
If a shared fuel cell system is used for both vehicle and refrigeration unit, then system size and complexity are reduced, but power distribution management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system incorporates feedback control mechanisms that continuously monitor the power demands of both the vehicle and refrigeration unit, the state of charge of batteries, and the fuel cell output. This enables automatic optimization of power distribution, dynamically adjusting fuel cell power output and battery charging/discharging rates to meet varying load requirements while simplifying overall system management.
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 configuration simplifies the system architecture, reduces size and cost, and allows the refrigeration unit to function when disconnected from the tractor, utilizing an auxiliary power source for continued operation.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell located on board the transport refrigeration system
Data Source
AI summary
A transport refrigeration system includes a tractor, a container connected to the tractor, a refrigeration unit for conditioning a compartment of the container, a first power system associated with the cargo container and operably coupled to the refrigeration unit, and a second power system associated with the tractor. One or more components are shared between the first power system and the second power system.