Transport refrigeration system with battery temperature control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport refrigeration systems face challenges with battery performance due to extreme temperatures, which can lead to unreliable or insufficient power for connected devices.
Innovation Solution
A transport refrigeration system that includes a controller to monitor ambient air temperature and adjust the cooling rate of a cooling unit or modify the operating parameters of power electronics to maintain optimal battery temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the cooling unit is turned off to save energy in moderate temperatures, then energy consumption is reduced, but battery temperature may rise above optimal range
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes a controller that continuously monitors battery temperature and adjusts the cooling unit operation accordingly. When battery temperature exceeds a threshold, the cooling unit is activated; when temperature is within acceptable range, the cooling unit is reduced or turned off. This feedback mechanism ensures energy efficiency while maintaining battery temperature within optimal ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling unit operates dynamically with variable cooling rates rather than fixed on/off states. The controller can adjust the cooling rate based on real-time battery temperature conditions, allowing for smooth transitions and optimized energy consumption while ensuring battery temperature remains within safe operating limits.
2Power
If power electronics operating parameters are increased to improve system performance, then power output is enhanced, but heat generation increases causing temperature rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated cooling system with second cooling channels as an intermediary between the power electronics and the environment. This intermediary cooling mechanism allows the power electronics to operate at high power levels while the cooling system simultaneously removes the excess heat generated, preventing temperature rise that would otherwise limit power output.
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
The system effectively manages battery temperature, enhancing the reliability and longevity of battery performance in extreme temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling unit configured to cool the power electronics
Implementation Method 2
a transport refrigeration system includes a compressor, condenser and evaporator configured to circulate a refrigerant
Implementation Method 3
a battery and power electronics configured to power the motor
Implementation Method 4
a compressor, condenser and evaporator configured to circulate a refrigerant
Implementation Method 5
a compressor, condenser and evaporator configured to circulate a refrigerant
Data Source
AI summary
A transport refrigeration system includes a compressor, condenser and evaporator configured to circulate a refrigerant; a motor configured to drive the compressor; a battery and power electronics configured to power the motor; an ambient air temperature sensor configured to monitor ambient air at the battery; a cooling unit configured to cool the power electronics; a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: receive an ambient air temperature of the compartment housing the battery; compare the ambient air temperature to a temperature threshold; and based at least in part on the comparing the ambient air temperature to the temperature threshold, performing at least one of (i) modify a cooling rate of the cooling unit and (ii) modify an operating parameter of the power electronics.