Method and system for configuring a transport refrigeration unit battery charger for use in a transport refrigeration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration unit (TRU) battery chargers often use a single charging algorithm that is not specific to the battery topology, leading to inefficient and potentially damaging charging for batteries with different chemistries, and lack the capability to prevent overcharging of secondary batteries.
Innovation Solution
A TRU battery charger system that configures a battery charging algorithm based on the specific battery topology of the TRU battery, including determining and adjusting parameters for charging modes to prevent overcharging and outgassing, allowing for efficient and precise charging of both primary and secondary batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single charging algorithm is used for all batteries, then the charger is simpler to operate and more versatile, but the charging efficiency and battery safety deteriorate due to mismatched charging parameters for different battery topologies
Solution Approach 1:
The charging algorithm dynamically adapts its parameters based on the detected battery topology. The system automatically adjusts charging voltage, current, and stage transitions according to whether the battery is lead-acid, lithium-ion, or another chemistry type, enabling both versatility across battery types and optimized charging efficiency for each specific type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes charging parameters (voltage thresholds, current limits, charge rates) based on the identified battery topology. Different battery chemistries receive customized parameter sets that match their electrochemical characteristics, resolving the contradiction between maintaining a single versatile charger interface and achieving type-specific charging optimization.
2Device complexity
If a single charging algorithm is used for all batteries, then the device complexity is reduced, but the battery safety and lifespan deteriorate due to overcharging and outgassing risks
Solution Approach 1:
The battery charger performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the battery topology and selecting appropriate charging parameters without user intervention. This self-service capability maintains low device complexity from the user perspective while internally implementing safety-critical topology-specific charging profiles that prevent overcharging and outgassing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor battery voltage, current, and charge state to identify battery topology characteristics. Based on this feedback, the charger automatically adjusts charging parameters to match the detected battery type, ensuring safety without requiring complex manual configuration or increasing overall device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If topology-specific charging parameters are implemented, then charging precision and battery protection are improved, but the configuration complexity and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic detection of battery topology during the initial charging setup phase. By pre-identifying the battery type and configuring appropriate parameters before charging begins, the system achieves high charging precision without requiring users to manually configure complex parameters, thus maintaining simplicity while improving precision.
4Measurement precision
If automatic battery topology detection is implemented, then charging accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex manual battery identification procedures with automated electronic detection methods. By using electrical characteristic analysis (voltage-current relationships, impedance measurements) rather than manual configuration interfaces or physical inspection, the system achieves accurate battery topology identification with minimal additional hardware complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for configuring a transport refrigeration unit (TRU) battery charger in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) is provided. The method includes receiving battery topology data indicating a battery topology of a TRU battery equipped in the TRS. The method also includes determining specific parameters for configuring a battery charging algorithm based on the battery topology data. Also, the method includes the TRU battery charger configuring the battery charging algorithm based on the specific parameters.