THERMO KING CORPORATION Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160025397 | LOW LOAD CAPACITY PROTECTION - A generator set for a transport refrigeration unit that is operable at a first frequency and a second frequency. The generator set includes a controller, a generator and a prime mover coupled to the generator. The prime mover selectively drives the generator in least at a first non-zero speed and a second non-zero speed. The controller can detect a capacity of the transport refrigeration unit and change the speed of the generator set to maintain a desired temperature within a transport unit. | 01-28-2016 |
20150354879 | METHOD OF REDUCING LIQUID FLOODING IN A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION UNIT - A method to reduce/prevent liquid refrigerant flooding in the compressor is disclosed herein. The method may include closing down the ETV when there is a risk of compressor flooding. The method may include closing down the ETV to a desired value when there is a risk of the compressor flooding. A failure to provide the superheated refrigerant vapor in a desired superheat temperature by the compressor may indicate a risk of the compressor being flooded by liquid refrigerant. The method may include measuring a refrigerant discharge temperature of the compressor, and closing down the ETV when a difference between the refrigerant discharge temperature of the compressor and a refrigerant saturate temperature is below a desired temperature threshold. | 12-10-2015 |
20150345641 | MECHANICAL FACE SEAL - A mechanical face seal and a method of using the mechanical face seal are described. The mechanical face seal includes a plurality of groove sets that are etched into a stationary seal and/or a rotating seal ring. Each of the plurality of groove sets includes feed grooves, collection grooves, distribution grooves, a collector, retention cavities and discharge grooves. The mechanical face seal can be used to reduce the friction that is generated from the stationary seal and the rotating seal ring during operation. Additionally, the groove sets work cooperatively to introduce, circulate and expel lubricant between the seal interface, thereby promoting cooling of the seal. | 12-03-2015 |
20150338142 | COMPRESSOR LOW COST OIL FILTER - An internal oil filter is installed at least partially inside a crankcase and/or an oil sump of a compressor. The internal oil filter can receive oil from an oil pressure regulator and filter the oil via filter media. The received oil radially penetrates through the filter media and flow directly into the oil sump from an outside surface of the filter media. This can eliminate the need of fluid lines connecting an outlet of an oil filter to the oil sump and any sealing mechanism therebetween. | 11-26-2015 |
20150316313 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION OF EVAPORATOR FANS IN A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Methods and systems for controlling the operation of the evaporator fans in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) are described. In some examples, the TRS is a multi-zone temperature control system (MTCS). The methods and systems described herein generally dynamically control a plurality of system fans in MTCSs in instances where running the system fans can lead to inefficiencies in energy consumption and fluctuations in temperature control. | 11-05-2015 |
20150316311 | MULTI-TEMPERATURE TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A multi-temperature transport refrigeration system (TRS) for a refrigerated transport unit having an interior space divided into a plurality of zones is disclosed. The multi-temperature TRS includes a thermal accumulator in a first of the plurality of zones. The thermal accumulator includes a phase change material in a first state to absorb thermal energy from the first of the plurality of zones of the interior space during transformation to a second state. The first of the plurality of zones is maintained at a first temperature and a second of the plurality of zones is maintained at a second temperature. | 11-05-2015 |
20150316310 | THERMAL ACCUMULATOR FOR A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A thermal accumulator, a thermal accumulator module, and a method for controlling refrigeration in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) are described. The thermal accumulator module includes a plurality of thermal accumulators. Each of the plurality of thermal accumulators includes a fluid tight housing configured for attachment in an internal space of a refrigerated transport unit. The housing is configured to withstand a load applied when installing the thermal accumulator module in the internal space. An aluminum compatible phase change material is contained within the housing in a first state and configured to absorb thermal energy from the internal space of the refrigerated transport unit during transformation to a second state. One or more faces of the housing include a heat transfer enhancer. | 11-05-2015 |
20150316309 | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM WITH AIR TEMPERATURE CONTROL - A method for air temperature control within a cargo compartment of a transport unit using a transport refrigeration system (TRS) that includes a thermal accumulator having a phase change material (PCM) provided therein is provided. The thermal accumulator is disposed in a thermal accumulator compartment and the cargo compartment is separated from the thermal accumulator compartment via a climate controlled barrier. The method includes a controller receiving, via one or more temperature sensors, temperature data within a cargo compartment of the transport unit from. The method also includes determining a temperature within the cargo compartment based on the temperature data. Also, the method includes determining a temperature stratification within the cargo compartment based on the temperature data. Further, the method includes operating the TRS in an active operation mode when the temperature within the cargo compartment is greater than a temperature set point. | 11-05-2015 |
20150316301 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARGING A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A method for charging a phase change material (PCM) of a thermal accumulator provided in a refrigerated transport unit is provided. The refrigerated transport unit includes a prime mover to move the refrigerated transport unit, a transport refrigeration system (TRS) that includes a heat transfer fluid circuit. The heat transfer fluid circuit has a compressor, a heat exchanger, an expansion device and a PCM heat exchanger. The method requires monitoring for, via a controller, a braking signal from a braking sensor of the refrigerated transport unit. Also, the method includes directing energy generated by the prime mover for moving the refrigerated transport unit to the TRS when the controller receives a braking signal from the braking sensor. Further, the method includes the TRS charging the PCM of the thermal accumulator via the heat transfer fluid circuit when the energy generated by the prime mover is directed to the TRS. | 11-05-2015 |
20150314671 | INTEGRATED CHARGING UNIT FOR PASSIVE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A transport refrigeration system (TRS), a refrigerated transport unit, and a method of charging a thermal accumulator in a TRS are disclosed. The TRS includes a thermal accumulator including a phase change material (PCM) configured in a first state, to absorb thermal energy from the interior space of the transport unit during transformation to a second state. A heat exchanger, a portion of which is disposed within the thermal accumulator, is in thermal communication with the PCM. The TRS also includes an expansion device and a transport refrigeration unit (TRU). A heat transfer fluid circuit connects the TRU and the heat exchanger, and is configured to direct a heat transfer fluid from the TRU to the heat exchanger via the expansion device for charging the PCM. | 11-05-2015 |
20150291005 | PERIODIC SYSTEM DIAGNOSTIC OF A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Methods and systems for periodic system diagnostic of a TRS are provided. In particular, a TRS controller is configured to periodically activate an engine control unit (ECU) of a genset to acquire engine sensor information while the engine is not running. The TRS controller is configured to determine an efficient time to bring the ECU out of a minimum electrical power consumption stage into a medium power consumption stage in order to determine a next action of the TRS. | 10-15-2015 |
20150267949 | COMBINED ACCUMULATOR AND RECEIVER TANK - A combined accumulator and receiver tank of a refrigeration system is described. The tank may have an accumulator portion positioned above a receiver portion. An accumulator/receiver pipe (AR pipe) connects the accumulator portion to the receiver portion. The AR pipe may have a valve that allows liquid refrigerant to flow from the accumulator portion to the receiver portion during a heating and/or defrost, and prevent the fluid flow when the refrigeration system is in a cooling cycle. In some embodiments, a side opening that is connected to the AR pipe is above an oil pick up orifice of an accumulator suction line pipe. | 09-24-2015 |
20140157809 | SYSTEM FOR TRACKING AND TESTING GENERATOR SETS USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED CONTAINERS - A generator set system for use with a refrigerated shipping container, the generator set system including a prime mover, a generator coupled to the prime mover, a generator set controller, and a generator set telematics unit. The generator set telematics unit determines a geographical location of the generator set, and the generator set controller performs pre-trip inspections on the generator set prior to the generator set leaving a pre-defined geographical area. | 06-12-2014 |
20140069126 | CONTROLLING CHILLED STATE OF A CARGO - A method for operating a refrigeration system for a container for refrigerating chilled cargo includes providing a refrigeration system including a compressor and an evaporator fan associated with an evaporator. The method also includes determining the temperature of supply air and the temperature of return air. The method further includes determining one of a requirement for heating and a requirement for cooling based on the temperature of the return air and the temperature of the supply air. The method additionally includes activating the evaporator fan when a requirement for heating is determined and increasing the speed of the evaporator fan when increased heating is determined. The method also includes activating the compressor and the evaporator fan when a requirement for cooling is determined and increasing the power supplied to the compressor and maintaining the evaporator fan at a first speed when increased cooling is determined. | 03-13-2014 |
20140041402 | APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN A CONTAINER - In one embodiment, a method of operating a refrigeration system includes measuring a relative humidity of a container and comparing the measured relative humidity to a humidity set point. The method also includes operating evaporator fans of a refrigeration system when the measured relative humidity is above the humidity set point. | 02-13-2014 |
20140033748 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS TO INCREASE EVAPORATOR CAPACITY - Embodiments to increase the capacity of the evaporator of a vapor-compression refrigeration system are described. The refrigeration system may be configured to have a first stage suction line heat exchanger and a second stage suction line heat exchanger. The refrigerant exiting the evaporator can be heated by the first heat exchanger. A thermal bulb of an expansion device, such as a thermostatic expansion valve (TXV) can be positioned downstream of the first heat exchanger. The thermal bulb is capable of regulating a variable volume of refrigerant through the expansion device in response to temperature changes. Thus, the superheat refrigerant vapor region in the evaporator can be reduced, thereby increasing the efficiency of the refrigeration system. The refrigerant exiting the evaporator is a liquid/vapor refrigerant mixture. The mixture can be vaporized to a refrigerant vapor in the first heat exchanger. | 02-06-2014 |
20140018015 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESERVING THE POWER SOURCE LIFE OF A WIRELESS END NODE PRIOR TO DEPLOYMENT IN A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Methods and systems for preserving the power source life of a wireless end node prior to deployment in a wireless communication system are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes operating the wireless end node in a long term storage mode prior to deploying the wireless end node in a wireless communication system in order to reduce current being drawn from a power source of the wireless end node. The method also includes the wireless end node detecting an interrupt request to pair the wireless end node to a wireless communication system. Also, the method includes the controller of the wireless end node switching from a long term storage mode to a normal operation mode when the wireless end node is paired to a wireless communication system. | 01-16-2014 |
20130340982 | MOUNTING CLAMP - During a manufacturing process of an air conditioning system, different components of the air conditioning system may be mounted to a frame or an attachment panel of the air conditioning system. A mounting clamp that is configured to facilitate mounting of a component of the air conditioning system is described. The mounting clamp may have an “E” shaped profile that includes a plurality of finger grips to latch onto an edge of the components. It may also have ribs and wall structures to help enhance the structural strength of the mounting clamp while maintaining a relatively small profile and/or weight of the mounting clamp. | 12-26-2013 |
20130334878 | BI-DIRECTIONAL BATTERY VOLTAGE CONVERTER - A method of balancing current in a vehicle electric system having a system bus, a first battery, a first bi-directional battery voltage converter selectively transferring a first current between the first battery and the system bus, a second battery, a second bi-directional battery voltage converter selectively transferring a second current between the second battery and the system bus, and a controller controlling the first bi-directional battery voltage converter and the second bi-directional battery voltage converter. The method includes sensing the first current and sensing the second current. The first bi-directional battery voltage converter and the second bi-directional battery voltage converter are controlled so that the first current and the second current are equal portions of a load current supplied to an electrical load connected to the system bus. | 12-19-2013 |
20130327285 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A GENERATOR - A generator set for a transport refrigeration unit that is operable at a first frequency and a second frequency. The generator set includes a generator and a prime mover. The generator set is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) that is coupled to a controller. The ECU is configured to monitor the engine operation condition to obtain an engine operation condition value; whereas the controller is configured to receive the engine operation condition value and compare the value with an engine operation condition threshold. When the engine operation condition value, for example, exceeds the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a first speed; and when the engine operation condition value, for example, is below the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a second speed that is slower than the first speed. | 12-12-2013 |
20130325257 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AUXILIARY POWER UNIT OF A VEHICLE - A method of controlling an auxiliary power unit of a vehicle. The auxiliary power unit is in communication with an air conditioning system of the vehicle and includes an engine and an alternator coupled to the engine. The method includes determining a state of a compressor of the air conditioning system, the compressor including an off state and an on state, reducing an alternator load relative to the engine in response to the compressor being varied from the off state to the on state, increasing the alternator load relative to the engine after a predetermined time interval, and simultaneously operating the alternator up to an alternator load capacity and the compressor up to a compressor load capacity. | 12-05-2013 |
20130301677 | TEMPERATURE PROBE FOR TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION - Embodiments of a handheld probe are described. The handheld probe may have a housing. The housing of the handheld probe may have a handle section and a probe shell section that is configured to house a probe. The handle section may have a hexagonal-shaped profile so that the handheld probe can be positioned on a flat surface of the hexagonal-shaped profile. In some embodiments, the handle section may have a center hole that is configured to accept a cable. The cable may be potted in the center hole filled with epoxy to prevent moisture from getting into the cable. In some embodiments, the probe shell section may be configured to have a thin wall so that the handheld probe can have a rapid response to temperature changes. A tip of the probe shell section may also be silver brazed to help with fast temperature response. | 11-14-2013 |
20130298575 | REMOTE MONITORING OF A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Systems and methods for remote monitoring of a transport refrigeration system are provided. In one embodiment, a transport refrigeration system (“TRS”) is provided that includes a transport refrigeration unit (“TRU”) and a generator set (“genset”). The TRU includes a refrigeration circuit and a TRS controller. The genset includes a power generator a genset controller, a TRU remote monitoring device configured to obtain TRU telemetry data and a genset remote monitoring device configured to obtain genset telemetry data. The TRS genset is configured to send the TRS telemetry data to an external server. | 11-14-2013 |
20130289847 | REAL-TIME ENGINE LOAD CONTROL FOR ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED ENGINES - Methods and systems for real-time engine load control (RTLC) for electronically controlled engines in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) are provided. In particular, a RTLC system is provided to control an electronically controlled engine for the TRS in order to maximize temperature control of the TRS, while preventing engine shut down due to a TRS load demand that exceeds the engine's horsepower output capability. The RTLC system includes an engine control unit (ECU) connected to a TRS controller. TRS controller includes an ECU data processing component, a load control component, an ETV control component, a TRS load demand component and a temperature control and TRS protection component. | 10-31-2013 |
20130289762 | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM CONTROLLER TO ENGINE CONTROL UNIT INTERFACE - 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. | 10-31-2013 |
20130283826 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A transport refrigeration system includes an engine, a generator set, and a refrigeration system. An electronic control unit and/or a reefer controller are configured to obtain an engine operation condition value and a transport refrigeration system operation value respectively. A genset controller is configured to determine a fuel efficient engine operation speed that is associated with the engine and/or transport refrigeration system operation condition value. The genset controller instructs the electronic control unit to operate the engine at the fuel efficient operation speed. | 10-31-2013 |
20130263612 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A horizontal suction accumulator generally includes a tank, an inlet tube, and an outlet tube. The tank extends in a horizontal direction and is configured to receive a refrigerant. The refrigerant includes a vapor and a liquid. The tank stores the liquid refrigerant and discharges the vapor refrigerant. The inlet tube supplies into the tank an inlet stream that includes the liquid and vapor refrigerants. The inlet tube extends into the tank and is bent upward at an acute angle. The liquid refrigerant is stored in the tank. The vapor refrigerant is discharged through the outlet tube, which extends offset from the inlet tube and into the tank. The inlet tube defines an inlet opening positioned at a first elevation, the outlet tube defines an outlet opening positioned at a second elevation, and the first and second elevations are substantially the same. | 10-10-2013 |
20130257048 | MOBILE ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED UNIT HAVING A MAGNETIC SENSOR FOR A HIGH-VOLTAGE ALTERTNATING CURRENT BUS - A mobile unit (e.g., a vehicle or a mobile environment-controlled unit) having a multiphase alternator, such as a three-phase alternator. The unit incorporates a Hall Effect current sensor to monitor all three phases of the high-voltage AC bus from the alternator. | 10-03-2013 |
20130255913 | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A transport refrigeration system generally includes a support structure, a heat exchanger, and at least two pairs of mounts for mounting the heat exchanger to the support structure. The support structure is configured to be coupled to a transport container. The heat exchanger includes two sides and defines a longitudinal direction that extends from one side to the other side. Each pair of mounts includes a fixed mount coupled to one side of the heat exchanger, and a floating mount coupled to the other side of the heat exchanger, the floating mount positioned substantially opposite to the fixed mount in the longitudinal direction. | 10-03-2013 |
20130255910 | VEHICLE OR ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED UNIT HAVING A MULTIPHASE ALTERNATOR WITH A PROTECTED HIGH-VOLTAGE BUS - A mobile environment-controlled unit, such as an over-the-road compartment trailer, having an environmental-control system, such as a refrigeration unit, powered by an alternator and having a high-voltage alternating current (AC) bus. The unit incorporates a high resistance ground scheme and can incorporate a solid-state input module to detect phase-chassis faults. This combination provides an improvement in protection for mobile applications that cannot have a voltage reference (or neutral point) solidly connected to earth ground. | 10-03-2013 |
20130248165 | POWER REGULATION SYSTEM FOR A MOBILE ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED UNIT AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - A mobile environment-controlled unit comprising a chassis, a compartment supported by the chassis, and an environmental-control system in environmental communication with the compartment. The environmental-control system is configured to control an environmental parameter of the compartment. The environmental-control system includes an AC Alternator and a controller. The AC alternator is powered by an internal combustion engine and supplies electrical power for the environmental-control system. The controller is configured to monitor the environmental parameter of the compartment, monitor one or more electrical parameters of the AC alternator, control the environmental-control system based on the monitored environmental parameter, and control the AC alternator based on the monitored parameters of the alternator. | 09-26-2013 |
20130247594 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HANDLING DISCRETE SENSOR INFORMATION IN A TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Systems and methods for handling discrete sensor information in a transport refrigeration system are provided. In one embodiment, a wireless control system for a transport refrigeration system is provided. The wireless control system includes two or more wireless end nodes and a network coordinator. Each of the wireless end nodes is configured to monitor a property of the transport refrigeration system. The network coordinator is configured to manage, command, direct and regulate the behavior of the wireless end nodes. Also, the network coordinator includes a sensor to zone coordinator that is configured to combine sensor data received by the two or more wireless end nodes to control a single transport refrigeration system function of the transport refrigeration system. | 09-26-2013 |
20130221897 | BI-DIRECTIONAL BATTERY VOLTAGE CONVERTER - A battery module for use with a vehicle electrical system. The battery module includes a bi-directional battery voltage converter, a first battery, and a second battery. A first relay selectively connects the first battery to the bi-directional battery voltage converter. A second relay selectively connecting the second battery to the bi-directional battery voltage converter. A controller selectively energizes the first relay, selectively energizes the second relay, and controls a direction of current through the bi-directional battery voltage converter. | 08-29-2013 |
20130185939 | METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS WITH UNIVERSAL BASE UNITS - A method of constructing modular air conditioning systems for vehicles includes providing identical universal base units that can be built out into a variety of different types of air conditioning systems. Each base unit includes a frame, a condenser, an evaporator coil, and a blower, and has open-circuit refrigerant connection lines so as to be non-operational without a completion kit. Completion kits are provided in a variety of configurations, including at least two of a simple connection kit, a front box kit, and a compressor kit, each of which is connectable with a universal base unit to form a unique type of air conditioning system. | 07-25-2013 |
20130174590 | ECONOMIZER COMBINED WITH A HEAT OF COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A refrigeration system having a cooling circuit, a heating circuit, a pressurizing receiver tank circuit, a pilot circuit and a liquid injection circuit wherein the hot gas line includes a solenoid valve that connects an outlet of a compressor to an outlet of a receiver tank, and wherein the liquid injection circuit includes a liquid injection solenoid that connects the outlet of the receiver tank to an outlet of an economizer. | 07-11-2013 |
20130121843 | COMPRESSOR DIGITAL CONTROL FAILURE SHUTDOWN ALGORITHM - A method of controlling the loading and unloading of a compressor includes selectively loading and unloading a compressor by engaging and disengaging, respectively, compressor members with the controller in response to system load data, monitoring at least one of the discharge pressure and the suction pressure at a predetermined time interval for a continuous time period, storing values based on the at least one of the discharge pressure and the suction pressure during the continuous time period, and determining a predetermined value indicative of compressor operation in which the compressor members are engaged. The method further includes comparing at least one of the stored values with the predetermined value and providing a signal to cease operation of the compressor when the comparison fails to indicate compressor operation in which the compressor members are engaged. | 05-16-2013 |
20130115497 | BUS BATTERY CONVERSION AND HOLD DOWN KIT - A bus battery tray assembly for securing one or more bus batteries, in which each bus battery has two battery terminals, includes a battery tray for supporting the one or more batteries and a battery tray cover assembly. The battery tray cover assembly includes a plate having a bottom surface with a plurality of projections extending from the bottom surface. The plurality of projections are disposed to position the one or more bus batteries on the tray. The battery tray cover also includes a bracket coupled to the plate with a front face substantially orthogonal to the plate and a plurality of plate terminals located on the front face. The assembly further includes a plurality of battery cables, wherein each cable connects a battery terminal to a plate terminal. | 05-09-2013 |
20130091873 | AUTO CONFIGURATION OF REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS IN COLD CHAIN - An environmentally-controlled structure for a cold chain. The structure includes a sensor, an identification reader, an environment implementer, and a controller. The sensor senses a parameter indicative of an environmental condition in the environmentally-controlled structure. The identification reader is positioned relative to the environmentally-controlled structure and reads information about the goods from an identification device associated with the goods. The environment implementer modifies the environmental condition inside the environmentally-controlled structure. The controller receives the indication of the environmental condition inside the environmental control structure from the sensor, receives the information about the goods from the identification reader, and controls the environment implementer to maintain a desired environment inside the environmentally-controlled structure based on the information about the goods and the indication of the environmental condition. | 04-18-2013 |
20130091872 | BUCK-BOOST RECTIFIER, REFRIGERATION SYSTEM INCLUDING A BUCK-BOOST RECTIFIER, AND METHOD OF PROVIDING POWER TO A REFRIGERATION UNIT VIA A BUCK-BOOST RECTIFIER - A buck/boost rectifier. The rectifier is connectable to an alternating current power source and includes an upper bus, a lower bus, an upper rectifier, a lower rectifier, a pulse-width-modulation (PWM) controller, a phase-angle (PA) controller, and a capacitor. The upper rectifier is coupled to the upper bus, and the lower rectifier is coupled in a series-type relationship with the upper rectifier and to the lower bus. The PWM controller is coupled to the lower rectifier and is configured to boost a direct current (DC) voltage output by the rectifier. The PA controller is coupled to the lower rectifier and is configured to buck the DC voltage output by the rectifier. The capacitor is coupled between the upper bus and the lower bus. | 04-18-2013 |
20130019617 | DEFROST FOR TRANSCRITICAL VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A method of defrosting a transcritical vapor compression system having a compressor for compressing a refrigerant, a first heat exchanger for cooling the refrigerant during a cooling mode, an expansion valve for decreasing the pressure of the refrigerant, and a second heat exchanger for cooling a space during the cooling mode. The method includes attaining a superheated refrigerant condition in a defrost mode of the transcritical vapor compression system and defrosting the second heat exchanger in the defrost mode by directing the superheated refrigerant to the second heat exchanger without bypassing the first heat exchanger. | 01-24-2013 |
20120319379 | TRACTOR AND TRAILER COMBINATION - A tractor and trailer combination including a tractor having a tractor frame, a supply unit, a trailer coupling, a skid plate, and a first connector coupled to the tractor frame and coupled to the supply unit to receive at least one of high voltage electrical power and coolant from the supply unit. The combination also includes a trailer having a trailer frame, a tractor coupling rotatably connecting the trailer to the tractor, and a second connector coupled to the trailer and configured to provide the at least one of high voltage electrical power and coolant to the trailer. The combination further includes a conduit having a first end coupled to the first connector, a second end coupled to the second connector. The conduit flexes and is supported between the first and second ends by the skid plate throughout rotation of the trailer relative to the tractor. | 12-20-2012 |
20120312036 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM WITH REFRIGERANT RECOVERY ARRANGEMENT - A temperature control system includes a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, a receiver, and an accumulator. A valve is positioned between the evaporator and the receiver. An evacuation line has a first end in fluid communication with heat transfer fluid between the valve and the receiver, and a second end in fluid communication with the accumulator. The evacuation line provides for flow of the heat transfer fluid from both of the first heat exchanger and the receiver to the accumulator during an evacuation mode of operation of the temperature control system. The valve can take the form of a check valve or an expansion valve without a bleed port. | 12-13-2012 |
20120265460 | Fuel consumption measurement of bus HVAC units - The method includes operating an HVAC unit for a test period in an automatic temperature control mode and measuring power consumed at one or more testing heat loads at one or more rotational speeds. The method further includes determining an association between the measured power consumed at the one or more testing heat loads and one or more tested bus engine speeds and calculating power consumed at the one or more testing heat loads at a plurality of profiled bus engine speeds based on the association, wherein the plurality of profiled bus engine speeds is derived from a bus road profile of known bus engine speeds at known time durations, with the known time durations summing to a time period. The method also includes calculating energy consumed at the one or more testing heat loads over the time period. | 10-18-2012 |
20120261396 | FLUID LEVEL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method for measuring a fluid level in a tank containing a fluid for a transportable temperature controlled space. The method includes providing a temperature control system for the transportable temperature controlled space, providing a fluid level sensor for sensing a fluid level in the tank, generating fluid level signals with the fluid level sensor indicative of the fluid level in the tank, providing a fluid level algorithm for receiving the fluid level signals from the fluid level sensor and computing the fluid level in the tank, and inhibiting nondeterministic fluid level signals from being introduced to the fluid level algorithm. | 10-18-2012 |
20120202414 | START/STOP OPERATION FOR A CONTAINER GENERATOR SET - A generator set including a prime mover, a generator coupled to the prime mover, and a controller that is associated with a temperature controlled space and operates the generator set in one of a start/stop mode and a continuous mode depending on a demand defined at least in part by contents within the temperature controlled space. | 08-09-2012 |
20120174604 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM WITH A DISTRIBUTOR HAVING A FLOW CONTROL MECHANISM AND A METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SUCH A SYSTEM - A method of controlling a refrigeration system with a closed circuit for circulating a refrigerant wherein the closed circuit has a compressor for compressing the refrigerant, a condenser for receiving and condensing at least part of the compressed refrigerant, an evaporator for receiving and evaporating the condensed refrigerant, and a return conduit for returning the refrigerant from the evaporator to the compressor. The evaporator has several evaporator sections with corresponding conduits that may be individually controlled so as to obtain individual refrigeration effects of corresponding individual evaporator sections. | 07-12-2012 |
20120159971 | MOBILE ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED UNIT AND METHOD OF OPERATING A MOBILE ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED UNIT - A mobile environment-controlled unit having a structure, a compartment supported by the structure, and an environmental-control system in environmental communication with the compartment. The environmental-control system is configured to control an environmental parameter of the compartment. The environmental-control system includes an internal combustion engine, having a starter, powering the environmental-control system; a battery powering the starter; and a controller. The controller monitors battery health status, predicts battery failure, and communicates the predicted battery failure. Also, described is a method of operating the mobile environment-controlled unit and a controller for controlling the mobile environment-controlled unit. | 06-28-2012 |
20120099966 | COMPRESSOR WITH CYCLONE AND INTERNAL OIL RESERVOIR - A rotary compressor including a housing that defines an inlet, a low pressure chamber, an outlet, and a high pressure chamber defining a high pressure lubricant sump. A drive shaft passes through the housing and a compression element is coupled to the drive shaft between the low pressure chamber and the high pressure chamber. A first path connects the high pressure lubricant sump to the low pressure chamber such that lubricant flows through the first path from the high pressure lubricant sump to the low pressure chamber. A low pressure lubricant sump is positioned within the low pressure chamber and includes a movable gate movable from a closed position to an open position in response to a hydrostatic pressure of the lubricant within the low pressure lubricant sump. A second path connects a lubricant separator and the low pressure lubricant sump. | 04-26-2012 |
20120073316 | CONTROL OF A TRANSCRITICAL VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A transcritical vapor compression system includes a compressor for compressing a refrigerant, a first heat exchanger for cooling the refrigerant, an expansion device for decreasing the pressure of the refrigerant, a second heat exchanger for absorbing heat into the refrigerant, and a controller programmed to calculate a first energy difference across the second heat exchanger and a second energy difference across the compressor, to calculate an energy ratio by dividing the first energy difference by the second energy difference, to compare the energy ratio to a previously calculated energy ratio, and to adjust operating parameters of the system based on the comparison of the energy ratio with respect to the previously calculated energy ratio. | 03-29-2012 |
20120017618 | ENGINE STARTER PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE SYSTEM - An engine starter system that predicts when starter failure is imminent. The engine starter system monitors engine starter crank speed, battery voltage and ambient air temperature. The crank speed, battery voltage and ambient air temperature are communicated to a controller which compares the crank speed for the measured battery voltage and air temperature to a predicted crank speed for the measured battery voltage and air temperature. If the crank speed is lower than the predicted crank speed, a signal is sent to an alarm. | 01-26-2012 |
20120015594 | DEMAND-BASED FRESH AIR CONTROL SYSTEM - A demand-based air conditioning system for a passenger vehicle that may utilize one or both of a contaminate sensor and a door sensor. A controller operates a damper to send an estimated amount of fresh air into a passenger compartment, based on the sensed level of contaminate in the passenger compartment, to ensure the air quality in the passenger compartment is acceptable for passengers. | 01-19-2012 |
20120000222 | ZONE PRIORITY TEMPERATURE CONTROL IN A MULTIPLE ZONE TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A multi-zone transport refrigeration system. The system includes a compressor, a condenser, a refrigerant circuit, a first temperature control zone and a second temperature control zone. A controller is configured to identify a priority zone and a non-priority zone based upon a first magnitude of a difference between a first temperature set point and a first zone temperature derived from the first air temperature sensor, and a second magnitude of a difference between the second temperature set point and a second zone temperature derived from the second air temperature sensor. A non-priority zone is isolated from the refrigerant circuit for a pre-defined period in order to maximize a refrigerant flow to the priority zone. | 01-05-2012 |
20120000212 | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SYSTEM WITH PREDICTIVE REFRIGERATION - A transport unit including a container defining a cargo space. The transport unit includes position detection apparatus coupled to the container, and adapted to determine a geographic location of the container and to generate a signal indicative of the geographic location. The transport unit also includes a refrigeration system in communication with the cargo space, and a control system including route data that defines a plurality of potential destinations of the container. The control system is programmed to predict a container route defined by at least two potential destinations of the container based on the geographic location and the route data, and to determine a proximity of the container relative to at least one potential destination of the route. The control system is in communication with the refrigeration system to control the refrigeration system based on the proximity of the container relative to the at least one potential destination. | 01-05-2012 |
20110302942 | ENVIRONMENT CONTROL UNIT WITH REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES GENERATOR - An environment control unit including an environment control system, a reactive oxygen species (ROS) generator, and a controller. The refrigeration system and the ROS generator positioned within a housing of the environment control unit and providing conditioned air to the interior of a cargo space to clean and condition air and surfaces within the cargo space. | 12-15-2011 |
20110301762 | ELECTRIC TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION UNIT WITH TEMPERATURE-BASED DIESEL OPERATION - A method of operating a transport refrigeration unit that is operable to regulate a temperature of a cargo space. The method includes providing a controller, driving a refrigerant compressor of the transport refrigeration unit with an internal combustion engine to compress a refrigerant defining an engine operating state of the transport refrigeration unit, and driving the refrigerant compressor of the transport refrigeration unit with an electric motor to compress the refrigerant defining a motor operating state of the transport refrigeration unit. The method further includes sensing the temperature of the cargo space, receiving into the controller a signal indicative of the temperature of the cargo space, determining the temperature of the cargo space using the controller, and switching between the engine operating state and the motor operating state in response to a signal generated by the controller based on the temperature of the cargo space. | 12-08-2011 |
20110298847 | REMOTE STATUS MULTIFUNCTION DISPLAY FOR A TRANSPORT VEHICLE - A display for a transport unit. The transport unit includes a trailer that defines a space with at least one zone, and a vehicle that is attachable to the trailer. The vehicle has a passenger compartment and a rear view mirror. A sensor is in communication with the transport unit and senses a parameter of the transport unit. The transport unit also includes a housing that is coupled to the trailer, and that has a display with a screen configured to display the parameter. A controller is attached to the trailer and is in communication with the space. The controller is in electrical communication with the sensor and the display, and the controller is programmed to selectively switch the display between a forward view mode and a mirror view mode based on a relationship between the vehicle and the trailer. | 12-08-2011 |
20110280764 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SANITIZATION - A system for sanitizing products on a conveyor including a conveyor for moving products along a direction of conveyance. A first generator and a second generator are each operable to generate airborne sanitizing agents. The first generator includes an outlet configured to discharge at least a portion of the airborne sanitizing agents generated therein across the conveyor in a first direction. The second generator includes an outlet configured to discharge at least a portion of the airborne sanitizing agents generated therein across the conveyor in a second direction. The outlet of the first generator is configured to direct the discharged airborne sanitizing agents toward an inlet of the second generator. | 11-17-2011 |
20110239664 | FLUID LEVEL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A transport refrigeration system for a transportable temperature controlled space includes a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator fluidly connected to one another, an engine operatively connected to the compressor, and a fuel tank assembly fluidly connected to the engine. The fuel tank assembly includes a fuel tank configured to contain the fuel, a fuel vapor and air, and an ultrasonic fluid level sensor for sensing a level of fuel, the fuel tank having a maximum fuel level. The fluid level sensor includes a transducer having a ring period. The distance from the fluid level sensor to the maximum fuel level is at least half the distance that the sound travels through the fuel vapor and air during the ring period of the transducer. | 10-06-2011 |
20110180250 | METHOD FOR FREEZE PROTECTION - A method for freeze protection for a temperature control system, and a temperature control system for controlling the temperature of a temperature-controlled space at a set point temperature. The method includes monitoring a discharge air temperature, monitoring a return air temperature, setting a target temperature to equal the set point temperature, controlling the return air temperature at the target temperature, and adjusting the target temperature based on the return air temperature when the discharge air temperature drops to one of at or below freezing. | 07-28-2011 |
20110146311 | APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN A CONTAINER - In one embodiment, the invention provides a refrigeration system having a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant gas and a condenser fluidly coupled to the compressor to receive compressed refrigerant gas from the compressor, the condenser configured to condense the refrigerant gas. In addition the refrigeration system includes a heat exchanger having a first section fluidly coupled to the compressor, and a second section fluidly coupled between the condenser and the compressor, wherein the first section receives compressed refrigerant gas from the compressor, and wherein the second section receives condensed refrigerant from the condenser, evaporates the refrigerant, and delivers the evaporated refrigerant to the compressor. | 06-23-2011 |
20110132006 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING INLET PRESSURE OF A REFRIGERANT COMPRESSOR - A refrigeration unit includes an engine, a motor capable of producing a similar power output as the engine, and a compressor driven by one of the engine and the motor. The compressor includes a suction inlet and a discharge outlet. The refrigeration unit also includes a condenser in fluid communication with the discharge outlet through which pressurized, gaseous refrigerant is condensed, an evaporator in fluid communication with the condenser to receive liquid refrigerant and return gaseous refrigerant to the suction inlet, a passageway having a first end in fluid communication with an outlet of the condenser, and a second end in fluid communication with the suction inlet, and a purge valve defining at least a portion of the passageway between the first and second ends. The purge valve is operable to selectively divert liquid refrigerant from the condenser to the suction inlet to increase the pressure in the suction inlet. | 06-09-2011 |
20110120149 | EXTERNAL NOISE REDUCTION OF HVAC SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A HVAC system for a vehicle that includes a propulsion system, a frame, a passenger compartment, and a door coupled to the frame. The HVAC system includes a refrigeration circuit that selectively controls the temperature of the passenger compartment based on a sensed temperature within the passenger compartment. The refrigeration circuit includes an exterior heat exchanger, a first air moving device coupled to the exterior heat exchanger, an interior heat exchanger, a second air moving device coupled to the interior heat exchanger, and a compressor. The HVAC system also includes a controller that is operable to detect a condition of the vehicle that includes at least one of a position of the door, a location of the vehicle, and a load of the propulsion system. The controller is programmed to adjust the refrigeration circuit in response to the sensed passenger compartment temperature and the detected vehicle condition. | 05-26-2011 |
20110081999 | BELT DRIVE SYSTEM ASSEMBLY AND TENSION APPARATUS - A belt assembly and adjustment mechanism for a belt drive system including a belt. The belt assembly and adjustment mechanism includes a first bracket that is attachable to a first portion of the belt drive system, and a second bracket that is attachable to a second portion of the belt drive system. The second portion is different from the first portion. The mechanism also includes a belt drive system component that is positioned between the first bracket and the second bracket. The component is pivotally coupled to the first bracket on one side of the component and is pivotally coupled to the second bracket on another side of the component. The component is further slidably coupled to one of the first bracket and the second bracket such that the component is movable between a first orientation at which the belt is configured to be tensioned and a second orientation at which the belt is configured to be installed on the component. | 04-07-2011 |
20110081996 | BELT DRIVE SYSTEM ASSEMBLY AND TENSION APPARATUS - Tension apparatus for a belt drive system. The tension apparatus includes a first component that is movable between a first tension position corresponding to a first belt length and a second tension position corresponding to a second belt length that is longer than the first belt length. The tension apparatus also includes a second component, a first component bracket coupled to the first component and defined by a first surface having a first perceptible indicator, and a second component bracket coupled to the second component and located adjacent the first component bracket. The second component bracket is defined by at least one second surface that has second perceptible indicators. The first perceptible indicator is selectively alignable with one of the second perceptible indicators in response to movement of the first component to one of the first and second tension positions such that tension of the belt is adjustable. | 04-07-2011 |
20110079025 | THERMAL STORAGE DEVICE WITH ICE THICKNESS DETECTION AND CONTROL METHODS - A thermal storage device for generating a thermal storage medium from a fluid and including a storage tank for containing the fluid, a refrigeration system having a heat exchanger positioned in the storage tank, a pump for pumping the fluid through the storage tank, a storage medium detection device, and a controller. The storage medium detection device generates a signal corresponding to at least one parameter of the pump. The controller controls the refrigeration system in one of a first mode and a second mode based on the signal. The at least one heat exchanger removes heat from the fluid to generate the thermal storage medium thereon when the refrigeration system operates in the first mode, and the at least one heat exchanger does not remove heat from the fluid thereby terminating generation of the thermal storage medium when the refrigeration system operates in the second mode. | 04-07-2011 |
20110044833 | OLDHAM COUPLING - A rotary compressor including a housing, a first scroll member, a second scroll member in meshing engagement with the first scroll member, and an Oldham coupling coupled to the second scroll member to inhibit the relative rotational movement between the first scroll member and the second scroll member. The Oldham coupling including a first riding pad, a second riding pad, a third riding pad is positioned, and a fourth riding pad positioned such that the first riding pad and the fourth riding pad are in an overlapping arrangement. | 02-24-2011 |
20110037441 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF REDUCING A LOAD ON AN ENGINE - A system for reducing an alternator's load on an engine when the engine drives a second load. The system includes an alternator, a battery, a resistor, and a switch. The alternator includes a stator, a voltage regulator, a rectifier, and a field coil. The battery has a first terminal coupled to the alternator and a second terminal coupled to the alternator. The resistor has a first lead coupled to the first terminal and a second lead coupled to the field coil. The switch is coupled in parallel across the resistor, and is open when the engine drives the second load and closed when the engine is not driving the second load. | 02-17-2011 |
20110029193 | MONITORING BATTERY HEALTH IN AN HVAC SYSTEM - Systems and methods of monitoring battery health in an HVAC system. The charge state of a rechargeable battery and the number of amp-hours provided to or from the rechargeable battery are monitored. The number of amp-hours provided is recorded and an end-of-life condition is detected based on the number of amp-hours provided during the charge or discharge cycle. In some constructions, the end-of-life condition is detected by comparing the number of amp-hours provided during the charge or discharge cycle to a threshold. In some constructions, the end-of-life condition is detected by calculating a rate of change of the number of amp-hours provided during a charge or discharge cycle and comparing the rate of change to a threshold. | 02-03-2011 |
20110028078 | MOBILE AIR CLEANING UNIT AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - A mass transit vehicle including a cabin mounted to a frame and including a roof and a passenger zone defining a passenger zone length, an air cleaning unit including an air cleaner housing mounted to the roof, an air cleaning device disposed within the housing, an inlet upstream of the air cleaning device, and an outlet downstream of the air cleaning device, and a duct system disposed within the cabin and extending substantially along the passenger zone length. The air cleaning unit is operable to draw in air through the inlet, through the air cleaning device, and discharge a flow of cleaned air out of the outlet, and the duct system is in fluid communication with the outlet and operable to receive the flow of cleaned air from the outlet and direct the flow of cleaned air to the cabin substantially evenly along the passenger zone length. | 02-03-2011 |
20110027626 | ELECTRICAL STORAGE ELEMENT CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - An electrical storage element control system for a vehicle. The control system includes electrical storage elements electrically coupled to each other in parallel, switch devices, and a controller. Each of the electrical storage elements defines a total storage capacity and having a state of charge cooperatively defining a total stored charge, and is adapted to be in electrical communication with an electrical load and a power source. The switch devices are electrically coupled to the electrical storage elements such that each switch device is associated with a corresponding electrical storage element and is operable between connected and disconnected states. The controller is in electrical communication with the switch devices to selectively vary each of the switch devices between the connected state and the disconnected state to connect and disconnect one or more of the electrical storage elements relative to the load based on the total stored charges and relative to the power source based on the total storage capacities of the electrical storage elements. | 02-03-2011 |
20110025273 | MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICAL STORAGE SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE - A method of monitoring an electrical storage system. The method includes providing an electrical storage element defining a total storage capacity and having a state of charge cooperatively defining a total stored charge of the electrical storage element, determining a total stored charge value representative of the total stored charge of the electrical storage element, varying the total stored charge by charging the electrical storage element from the power source via an electrical charge or discharging the electrical storage element to the load via an electrical discharge, and updating the total stored charge value after varying the total stored charge. | 02-03-2011 |
20100229576 | HYDROCOOLER WITH THERMAL STORAGE - A hydrocooler system for cooling produce. The hydrocooler system comprises a hydrocooler tank configured to contain a fluid used to saturate and cool the produce, and a thermal storage device positioned in the hydrocooler tank and configured to receive a refrigerant. The thermal storage device is configured to generate a thermal storage medium from the fluid on the thermal storage device in response to the flow of refrigerant through the thermal storage device. | 09-16-2010 |
20100218530 | LOW PROFILE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT FOR VEHICLES - A vehicle including a roof that separates an exterior and an interior of the vehicle, and an air conditioning system. The roof has an exterior surface, an interior surface, and an aperture extending through the roof between the exterior surface and the interior surface. The air conditioning system includes an exterior housing that is mounted to the exterior surface of the roof and includes a divider defining a first cavity, and a second cavity. The air conditioning system also includes a condenser, an evaporator, and an evaporator blower. The air conditioning system further includes an interior housing that is removably mounted to the interior surface of the roof and defines a mounted position and a removed position in which the evaporator and evaporator blower are accessible for servicing from the interior of the vehicle. | 09-02-2010 |
20100218529 | LOW PROFILE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT FOR VEHICLES - A vehicle including a roof that separates an exterior and an interior of the vehicle, and an air conditioning system. The roof has an exterior surface, an interior surface, and an aperture extending through the roof between the exterior surface and the interior surface. The air conditioning system includes an exterior housing that is mounted to the exterior surface of the roof and includes a divider defining a first cavity, and a second cavity. The air conditioning system also includes a condenser, an evaporator, and an evaporator blower. The air conditioning system further includes an interior housing that is removably mounted to the interior surface of the roof and defines a mounted position and a removed position in which the evaporator and evaporator blower are accessible for servicing from the interior of the vehicle. | 09-02-2010 |
20100139301 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL THROUGH PULSE WIDTH MODULATION - A refrigerant compressor assembly for a refrigeration circuit controls the temperature within a temperature controlled space. The refrigerant compressor assembly includes a first unloading valve, a first valve actuator, and a first valve control system that adjusts the first valve actuator via a pulse-width-modulated signal, a second unloading valve, a second valve actuator, and a second valve control system that adjusts the second valve actuator via a pulse-width-modulated signal. The refrigerant compressor assembly also includes a third unloading valve. The first valve actuator is coupled to the first and third unloading valves and controlled by the first valve control system. The unloading valves selectively allow or resist fluid flow from higher to lower pressure areas within the refrigerant compressor assembly. | 06-10-2010 |
20100083679 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM WITH A DIRECTLY-CONTROLLED PURGE CYCLE - A temperature control system includes a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an accumulator. A liquid level sensor is associated with the accumulator tank generates a signal indicative of the level of the liquid heat transfer fluid inside the accumulator. A valve is in fluid communication with the condenser, the compressor, and the evaporator and is operable in a first position and a second position. The first position directs the heat transfer fluid from the compressor to the condenser, and the second position directs the heat transfer fluid from the compressor to the evaporator without passing through the first heat exchanger. A controller is in electrical communication with the liquid level sensor and the valve and is operable to receive the signal and move the valve from the first position to the second position based on the signal. | 04-08-2010 |
20100024450 | MULTI TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM - An environmentally controlled shipping container including a storage space, a first environmentally controlled space within the storage space, a second environmentally controlled space within the storage space, and a transport refrigeration unit. The transport refrigeration unit including a compressor that provides a flow of refrigerant, a condenser that receives the flow of refrigerant from the compressor, a first evaporator positioned within the first environmentally controlled space and in fluid communication with the condenser, a second evaporator positioned within the second environmentally controlled space and in fluid communication with the condenser, and a pressure regulator associated with the first evaporator. The pressure regulator selectively restricts the flow of refrigerant from the first evaporator to the compressor such that the flow of refrigerant from the first evaporator to the compressor is substantially equal to the flow of refrigerant from the second evaporator to the compressor. | 02-04-2010 |
20090299534 | START/STOP TEMPERATURE CONTROL OPERATION - An environmentally controlled shipping container including a storage space and a refrigeration system that includes a prime mover, a compressor driven by the prime mover and providing a flow of refrigerant, a condenser that receives the flow of refrigerant from the compressor, an evaporator in heat exchange relation with the storage space to remove heat from air supplied to the storage space. A controller operates the refrigeration system in one of a continuous mode wherein the prime mover operates continuously, a standard start/stop mode wherein the prime mover operates intermittently such that while the prime mover is operating in the standard start/stop mode the compressor provides a maximum flow of refrigerant, and a modulated start/stop mode wherein the prime mover operates intermittently such that while the prime mover is operating in the modulated start/stop mode the operating parameters of the refrigeration system may be modulated. | 12-03-2009 |
20090299530 | START/STOP OPERATION FOR A CONTAINER GENERATOR SET - A generator set including a prime mover, a generator coupled to the prime mover, and a controller that is associated with a temperature controlled space and operates the generator set in one of a start/stop mode and a continuous mode depending on a demand defined at least in part by contents within the temperature controlled space. | 12-03-2009 |
20090277202 | HVAC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A vehicle that includes a frame, a prime mover, an alternator, a cabin, a HVAC system, and a power source. The prime mover is operable in a first mode that is configured for driving the vehicle and a second mode that is configured for standby operation of the vehicle. The cabin includes walls that define a space and that have insulation to insulate the space. The HVAC system is in communication with the cabin to condition the space, and includes a cooling system, a heating system, and a sorption system that dehumidifies air provided to the space. The power source has a battery that is in electrical communication with the alternator and the HVAC system to supply power to the HVAC system from the battery when the prime mover is in the first mode and when the prime mover is in the second mode. | 11-12-2009 |
20090277195 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM INCLUDING A DESICCANT - A refrigeration system for providing conditioned air to a space includes a compressor operable to compress a refrigerant, a condenser configured to receive the refrigerant from the compressor, an expansion device configured to receive the refrigerant from the condenser, a desiccant operable to adsorb moisture from an airflow flowing through the desiccant such that the airflow is substantially dehumidified, and an evaporator assembly configured to receive the refrigerant from the expansion device and the airflow from the desiccant. The evaporator assembly is operable to condition the airflow prior to discharge from the evaporator assembly. The refrigeration system also includes a heat exchanger configured to selectively receive the refrigerant from at least one of the compressor and the condenser. The heat exchanger is in communication with the desiccant such that the refrigerant in the heat exchanger desorbs moisture from the desiccant. | 11-12-2009 |
20090266100 | CLOSED AND OPEN LOOP CRYOGENIC REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A temperature-controlled vehicle including a cascade refrigeration system having a booster cooling line configured to supplement the cooling capacity of the cascade refrigeration system by expanding and venting a portion of a cryogenic refrigerant to the atmosphere during peak demands while the cascade refrigeration system continues to operate. | 10-29-2009 |
20090248218 | ENVIRONMENT CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A TRANSPORT UNIT - An environment control system for a transport unit defining a cargo space. The environment control system comprises a controller in communication with a user interface such that the user interface identifies to the controller one kind of cargo within the cargo space, an environment adjusting system in communication with the controller and operable to regulate environment conditions inside the cargo space, and a database in communication with the controller for storing an environment profile as a function of the one kind of cargo such that the environment profile includes a plurality of environment control parameters, each environment control parameter controls the environmental adjusting system for a respective predetermined interval. | 10-01-2009 |
20090126901 | EXTERNAL NOISE REDUCTION OF HVAC SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A HVAC system for a vehicle that includes a propulsion system, a frame, a passenger compartment, and a door coupled to the frame. The HVAC system includes a refrigeration circuit that selectively controls the temperature of the passenger compartment based on a sensed temperature within the passenger compartment. The refrigeration circuit includes an exterior heat exchanger, a first air moving device coupled to the exterior heat exchanger, an interior heat exchanger, a second air moving device coupled to the interior heat exchanger, and a compressor. The HVAC system also includes a controller that is operable to detect a condition of the vehicle that includes at least one of a position of the door, a location of the vehicle, and a load of the propulsion system. The controller is programmed to adjust the refrigeration circuit in response to the sensed passenger compartment temperature and the detected vehicle condition. | 05-21-2009 |
20090071134 | DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER INCLUDING A HEAT EXCHANGER - An after treatment device includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet. The after treatment device also includes a core positioned substantially within the housing. The core is configured to treat a fluid. The after treatment device further includes a heat exchanger positioned substantially within the housing and about at least a portion of the core. The heat exchanger includes a first passage substantially surrounding the at least a portion of the core and configured to direct untreated fluid from the inlet toward the core, and a second passage substantially surrounding the at least a portion of the core and configured to direct treated fluid from the core toward the outlet. | 03-19-2009 |
20090071088 | WALL CONSTRUCTION FOR INSULATED ENCLOSURE - An enclosure for storing temperature sensitive goods. The enclosure includes a wall that has an interior wall member and an exterior wall member that is spaced apart from the interior wall member to define a gap. The interior wall member partially defines the conditioned space. The enclosure also includes an insulation member that is disposed between the interior wall member and the exterior wall member within the gap. The insulation member has a vacuum insulation panel and foam insulation that is positioned on both sides of the vacuum insulation panel to separate the vacuum insulation panel from the interior wall member and the exterior wall member. The vacuum insulation panel and the foam insulation cooperate to insulate the conditioned space. | 03-19-2009 |
20090049851 | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION DAMPER ASSEMBLY - A damper assembly for a transport unit that defines a space and that includes a refrigeration system. The damper assembly includes a housing that is coupled to the transport unit, and that has an inlet and an outlet in communication with the conditioned space. The damper assembly also includes a blower assembly that is in communication with the inlet and the outlet, and that has a rotatable blower member that is configured to generate an airflow from the inlet toward the outlet. An airfoil-shaped damper blade is pivotally coupled to the housing about an axis offset from a center of the damper blade, and is positioned adjacent and in close proximity to the blower member, and is further positioned between the blower assembly and the outlet. The damper blade is pivotable about the axis between an open position and a closed position to selectively direct the airflow through the outlet. | 02-26-2009 |
20080314059 | DOUBLE CLUTCH DRIVE SYSTEM - A double clutch system that allows the engine to drive the compressor of an OEM system through a first engaged clutch when the engine is running and allows an electric motor to drive the compressor through a second engaged clutch when the engine is not running. The electric motor is powered by either a power source external to the tractor's engine compartment (e.g., a electric outlet or an auxiliary power unit having a diesel-fired engine and a generator) or powered by the tractor battery, which is charged by a power source external to the tractor's engine compartment. | 12-25-2008 |
20080264039 | STRUCTURE AND METHOD TO VERIFY DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER OPERATION - A sensor for use with a diesel particulate filter in an exhaust system includes a collection device configured to be positioned downstream of the diesel particulate filter such that particulate matter not captured by the diesel particulate filter accumulates on the collection device. The collection device is configured to visually indicate a rate of particulate matter accumulation on the collection device. The rate of particulate matter accumulation corresponds to filter performance. | 10-30-2008 |