A method and an apparatus to determining an impact on a temperature-controlled unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temperature-controlled units in vehicles lack a reliable method to detect and inform about damage caused by sudden deceleration, which can lead to hindered operations and damage to perishable goods during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using sensors like tri-axis accelerometers and gyroscopes to monitor parameters of temperature-controlled unit components, transmitting data to a server for impact determination, and initiating recovery processes, with notifications sent to relevant parties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If hard brakes are applied to control the vehicle during sudden deceleration, then the vehicle can be controlled to avoid accidents, but the temperature-controlled unit may suffer damage and operations may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting changes in acceleration before damage occurs and proactively monitoring component parameters. The accelerometer detects sudden deceleration events and triggers immediate monitoring of temperature, pressure, and other critical parameters to identify potential damage early, enabling preventive measures before the temperature-controlled unit fails completely.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring component parameters (temperature, pressure, motor current) and comparing them against expected ranges. When deviations indicate damage from sudden deceleration, the system provides feedback through notifications to the driver and automatic adjustment of operating parameters to maintain temperature-controlled unit functionality despite the shock event.
2Device complexity
If no damage detection system is implemented, then the device complexity remains low, but the ability to inform about damage and initiate recovery is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by using a multi-functional integrated approach where a single controller performs multiple tasks: detecting acceleration changes via accelerometer, monitoring multiple component parameters (temperature, pressure, motor current), determining damage based on combined data analysis, and initiating recovery processes. This consolidates what could be separate complex subsystems into one coordinated unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive damage detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automatic damage determination and recovery initiation. The controller automatically analyzes sensor data, compares parameters against damage thresholds, determines the extent of damage without human intervention, and triggers appropriate recovery actions such as adjusting compressor operation or notifying maintenance personnel, eliminating the need for manual inspection and decision-making.
3Measurement precision
If component parameters are continuously monitored, then damage detection accuracy improves, but the energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by monitoring component parameters continuously during normal operation but intensifying monitoring only when the accelerometer detects sudden deceleration events. During steady-state operation, full-parameter monitoring occurs at standard intervals, but upon detecting a shock event, the system transitions to high-frequency monitoring of all critical parameters to accurately assess damage without the continuous energy burden of constant high-rate sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The accelerometer performs preliminary detection of sudden deceleration events, triggering the detailed parameter monitoring only when needed. This preliminary action filters out unnecessary continuous high-precision monitoring during normal operation, reducing energy consumption while ensuring that accurate measurements are available precisely when damage is most likely to occur.
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
Enables timely detection and notification of damage to temperature-controlled units, facilitating prompt recovery and preventing damage to perishable goods during sudden vehicle deceleration.
Implementation Method 1
The change in acceleration of the road vehicle may be detected using one or more sensors associated with the temperature-controlled unit. The one or more sensors may correspond to a tri-axis accelerometer sensor and a gyroscope.
Implementation Method 2
The one or more sensors may correspond to a tri-axis accelerometer sensor and a gyroscope.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 1D~1E
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a server (110), an apparatus (106) and a method for determining an impact on components of a temperature-controlled unit (104) of a vehicle (102). The method comprises the steps of: receiving information of one or more parameters associated with one or more components of a temperature-controlled unit (104) of a vehicle (102), the information of the one or more parameters received in response to a change in acceleration of the vehicle (102); determining an impact on the one or more components of the temperature-controlled unit (104) due to the change in the acceleration; and transmitting a notification to a device (112) based on the impact on the one or more components of the temperature-controlled unit (104).