Method and system for data logging in a transport refrigeration system that includes a human-machine interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transport refrigeration systems lack an efficient and cost-effective method for collecting, storing, and analyzing data from sensors to maintain optimal refrigeration conditions for perishable cargo during transportation.

Innovation Solution

A transport refrigeration system that includes a controller and human-machine interface (HMI) capable of collecting data from sensors, storing it in an external device, and analyzing it, with options for data transfer via RS485, USB, or wireless protocols, allowing for periodic data transmission and user-accessible external storage for further analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If data is stored in the TRS controller, then data logging capability is provided, but system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata logging capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the data storage function from the TRS controller by introducing an external removable storage device that connects to the HMI. This separates the logging capability from the main control system, allowing data to be stored externally without increasing controller complexity or cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The HMI serves as an intermediary between the controller and the external storage device. It receives data from the controller via RS485 communication and transfers it to the external storage device, enabling data logging without modifying the controller architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple communication protocols are integrated, then data transfer flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transfer flexibilityVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The HMI is designed with multiple communication interfaces (RS485 for controller communication, USB for external storage, and wireless protocols for mobile devices) that enable it to perform multiple data transfer functions. This universal interface capability provides flexibility without requiring multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If data is continuously monitored and logged, then cargo temperature control reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature control reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic data collection and logging at predetermined time intervals rather than continuous monitoring. The controller and HMI collect data from sensors at scheduled intervals, transfer it to external storage, and can repeat this cycle, providing reliable temperature monitoring while consuming energy only during these periodic operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS10536527B2Method and system for data logging in a transport refrigeration system that includes a human-machine interface

Publication Date: 2020.01.14 THERMO KING CORP

AI summary

Methods and systems for controlling the collection and storage of data are described. In general, the system includes a human-machine interface (HMI), and the HMI includes an interface that is configured to receive and connect with an external device. Generally, the methods and systems involve the use of an external storage device that can store, for example, collected data and/or analyzed data.