TRS Controller to ECU Interface for Battery Draw and Wiring Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport refrigeration systems face inefficiencies in power consumption, redundancy, wiring complexity, and safety during non-running modes, particularly when using non-industrial engines like automotive engines, which affect battery drain and system reliability.
Innovation Solution
A transport refrigeration system (TRS) controller to engine control unit (ECU) interface is developed, utilizing a CAN communication connection for two-way data transmission, a keyswitch connection for enabling/disabling the ECU, and a run signal connection for managing engine power and startup, reducing power consumption and eliminating redundancy by integrating non-industrial engines like automotive engines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a non-industrial engine (e.g., automotive engine) is integrated into the TRS, then the amount of current drawn from the battery during non-running modes is reduced, but the complexity of integrating the engine control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the TRS controller and ECU into a single integrated control system. The TRS controller directly controls the electronically controlled engine, eliminating the need for separate control units and reducing battery current draw during non-running modes while managing the complexity through unified control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The TRS controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the refrigeration system operations and the engine management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated ECU resources during non-running modes, thereby reducing battery current draw while maintaining system capabilities.
2Productivity
If redundancy is eliminated in TRS resources by integrating non-industrial engines, then system efficiency is improved, but system reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameters and operating modes of the integrated system to optimize efficiency. By dynamically adjusting engine operation parameters and refrigeration system settings based on real-time conditions, the system achieves improved efficiency without compromising reliability through adaptive control strategies.
3Ease of manufacture
If the wiring harness is simplified by integrating the engine control system, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to provide engine diagnostics and services while running in electrical mode may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication interface as an intermediary between the TRS controller and the engine system. This interface enables diagnostics and services while running in electrical mode without requiring complex wiring changes, maintaining ease of manufacture while preserving diagnostic capabilities through standardized communication protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a TRS Controller to ECU interface are provided. The interface includes a TRS Controller connected to an ECU that is part of an engine. The interface includes a keyswitch connection that is configured to send a keyswitch message from the TRS Controller to the ECU, a run signal connection that is configured to send a run message from the TRS Controller to the ECU, and a CAN communication connection that is configured to provide two-way communication between the TRS Controller and the ECU.