Transport refrigeration unit with modular power modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport refrigeration units (TRUs) are limited by fixed power sources, which restrict their adaptability to different environments, legal constraints, and energy efficiency, posing challenges in compliance with emissions regulations and energy management.
Innovation Solution
A TRU with modular power modules that can be detachably attached to a container, allowing for reversible connection to a refrigeration module via electrical harnesses. The power modules include electric, fuel-based, and axle generator options, enabling flexible power supply based on location, power requirements, and charge/fuel level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed power source is used in a TRU, then the system structure is simple, but the adaptability to different environments and legal constraints is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power source system is segmented into multiple independent power modules (electric power module, fuel-based power module, axle generator) that can be selectively connected to the refrigeration module. Each module operates independently and can be detached or attached based on environmental requirements and legal constraints, enabling the system to adapt to different operating conditions without requiring a completely different system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigeration module is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of power modules through standardized electrical harnesses and connection interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the same refrigeration module to operate with different power sources (electricity, fuel, or kinetic energy from axle generator) depending on the operational context, thereby improving adaptability without increasing the complexity of the refrigeration unit itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power modules are provided for different environments, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic switching capability through a control unit that can automatically or manually select and switch between different power modules based on real-time operational parameters, location data, and legal requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the TRU to comply with varying legal constraints (such as emissions regulations in different zones) without requiring permanent configuration changes or complex manual reconfiguration procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular power modules are used, then the adaptability and compliance are improved, but the connection and disconnection operations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical harnesses serve as intermediary components that simplify the connection and disconnection operations between power modules and the refrigeration module. These pre-configured electrical interfaces provide standardized, plug-and-play connectivity, reducing the operational complexity of switching between different power sources while maintaining flexible adaptability to various operating conditions.
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 modular design enhances adaptability, compliance with legal requirements, optimized energy consumption, and improved air conditioning performance, while allowing for scalability and cost-effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
the electric power module comprises a battery configured to provide electric power to the refrigeration module
Implementation Method 2
a generator configured to generate electric power on being driven by the fuel-powered engine
Implementation Method 3
an axle generator operably connected to the axle of the container
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Described herein is a transport refrigeration unit (TRU). The TRU comprises a refrigeration module (106) configured to be installed on a container (102), and at least one power module (108) configured to be detachably disposed at one or more positions on the container or removably attached to an axle of the container, wherein the at least one power module is configured to be reversibly connected to the refrigeration module via electrical harnesses, and wherein the at least one power module comprising at least one of: an electric power module (108A), a fuel-based power module (108B), or an axle generator (108C) operably connected to the axle of the container.