U.S. patent application number 13/497573 was filed with the patent office on 2012-08-09 for spatial control of conditioned gas delivery for transport refrigeration system to include cargo spatial temperature distribution, and methods for same.
This patent application is currently assigned to CARRIER CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Lawrence E. Zeidner.
Application Number | 20120198866 13/497573 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43900958 |
Filed Date | 2012-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120198866 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zeidner; Lawrence E. |
August 9, 2012 |
SPATIAL CONTROL OF CONDITIONED GAS DELIVERY FOR TRANSPORT
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM TO INCLUDE CARGO SPATIAL TEMPERATURE
DISTRIBUTION, AND METHODS FOR SAME
Abstract
Embodiments of systems, apparatus, and/or methods can provide a
supply air delivery system to modify delivered supply air
responsive to a sensed condition. Embodiments of transport
refrigeration systems, air delivery chutes, plenums in containers,
containers and methods for using same according to the application
can maintain a prescribed environment for an operatively coupled
cargo or a container.
Inventors: |
Zeidner; Lawrence E.; (West
Hartford, CT) |
Assignee: |
CARRIER CORPORATION
Farmington
CT
|
Family ID: |
43900958 |
Appl. No.: |
13/497573 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
April 28, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2010/053538 |
371 Date: |
March 22, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61254289 |
Oct 23, 2009 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/89 ;
62/186 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2700/123 20130101;
F25D 17/06 20130101; F25D 11/003 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/89 ;
62/186 |
International
Class: |
F25D 17/04 20060101
F25D017/04 |
Claims
1. A transport refrigeration unit for regulating temperature of an
enclosed volume, the transport refrigeration unit comprising: a
refrigeration module including: a supply port to output air at a
supply temperature; a return port to return air to the
refrigeration module at a return temperature; at least one plenum
extending away from the refrigeration module, the at least one
plenum to include at least one configurable port to operate in a
plurality of positions; and a controller coupled to regulate
operations of said at least one configurable port responsive to a
prescribed temperature.
2. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, comprising at least
one temperature sensor unit to provide a cargo temperature, said
controller to selectively operate said at least one configurable
port responsive to said cargo temperature.
3. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 2, said at least one
temperature sensor unit to include a network of cargo temperature
sensor units, said controller to determine localized temperatures
or temperatures for grids from said network of cargo temperature
sensor units, said controller to operate a plurality of
configurable ports to control a flow therethrough or to control a
direction of the flow therethrough responsive to readings of the
network of cargo temperature sensor units.
4. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 3, said at least one
temperature sensor unit is wirelessly connected or has a wired
connection to the refrigeration module, wherein the network of
cargo temperature sensor units and the plurality of configurable
ports have a prescribed relationship.
5. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 2, said controller to
selectively operate said at least one plenum in a first mode of
operation or in a second mode of operation responsive to said cargo
temperature or responsive to said supply temperature and said
return temperature.
6. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 5, wherein the first
mode of operation and the second mode of operation have different
positions for at least two of a plurality of different configurable
ports or the first mode of operation and the second mode of
operation provide different spatial distributions of air leaving
the at least one plenum.
7. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, said controller to
selectively operate said at least one configurable port in a first
mode of operation or in a second mode of operation responsive to a
cargo temperature or responsive to said supply temperature and said
return temperature.
8. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, said at least one
plenum is operatively coupled to one of the supply port or the
return port.
9. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, said at least one
configurable port is configured to operate in a plurality of
positions between a first closed position and a second open
position, said at least one configurable port coupled to an
actuator to reciprocally move between said plurality of positions,
said actuator wirelessly connected or has a wired connection to the
controller.
10. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, said refrigeration
module including: a compressor having a discharge port and an input
port; a heat rejection heat exchanger unit operatively coupled to
said discharge port; an heat absorption heat exchanger unit
operatively coupled to said input port; a first fan disposed
proximate to said heat rejection heat exchanger unit; and a second
fan disposed proximate to said heat rejection heat exchanger unit,
said controller to regulate said compressor, said first fan, and
said second fan.
11. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, said controller to
operate said refrigeration module responsive to a humidity, cargo
respiration, presence of gases, presence of chemicals, schedule, or
species concentration of the enclosed volume or ambient conditions
outside the enclosed volume.
12. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, comprising a
container coupled to the refrigeration module, said container to
include a first plenum extending along a surface of the container
between a front end adjacent to the refrigeration module and an
opposite end, said surface to be at least one of a top surface and
side surfaces of the container or to include a second plenum having
a U-shape to extend along the top surface of the container and
partially down the side surfaces between the front end adjacent to
the refrigeration module and the opposite end.
13. The transport refrigeration unit of claim 1, where said at
least one plenum has a prescribed configuration to include at least
a split into a plurality of first sub-plenums, joinder between at
least two sub-plenums, or a plurality of second sub-plenums coupled
to corresponding portions of the supply port.
14. Apparatus for controlling a transport refrigeration unit for
delivering conditioned air to a container, said apparatus
including: a supply air plenum extending rearward from the
transport refrigeration unit toward the rear of the container that
is arranged to receive supply air from said transport refrigeration
unit, the supply air plenum to provide a continuous passageway
through said container; a plurality of discharge ports positioned
along a length of the supply air plenum, the plurality of discharge
ports to move between a first position to output air in a first
direction and a second position to output the air in a second
direction or in a different amount, and a plurality of temperature
sensors positioned within the container to provide a temperature
distribution in a spatial relationship to said plurality of
discharge ports; and a controller to determine when to move at
least one of the plurality of discharge ports between the first
position and the second position responsive to temperature provided
by the plurality of temperature sensors.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: a second supply
air plenum extending rearward from the transport refrigeration unit
toward the rear of the container along one sidewall of the
container arranged to receive the supply air from said transport
refrigeration unit, the second supply air plenum being spaced apart
from an adjacent first sidewall of said container; a second
plurality of discharge ports positioned along the second supply air
plenum, said second plurality of discharge ports to move between
the first position capable of allowing air to pass therethrough and
the second position to block air from passing therethrough; a third
supply air plenum extending rearward from the transport
refrigeration unit toward the rear of the container along an
opposite sidewall of the container arranged to receive the supply
air from said transport refrigeration unit, the third supply air
plenum being spaced apart from an adjacent second side wall of said
container; a third plurality of discharge ports positioned along
the third supply air plenum, said third plurality of discharge
ports to move between the first position capable of allowing air to
pass therethrough and the second position to block air from passing
therethrough.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the supply air plenum has a
U-shape and is connected at a first end to one of a supply air port
or a return air port of the transport refrigeration unit.
17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the container is separated
into modular units having sidewalls extending up from a bottom
surface over halfway to a top surface; each of said modular units
corresponding to at least one discharge port; said each of said
modular units to include at least one temperature sensor.
18. A method of operating a transport refrigeration system,
comprising: receiving identifying information including location
for a network of sensors; receiving identifying information
including location and air flow settings for discharge ports, the
discharge ports to be operationally coupled to a transport
refrigeration unit; receiving information related to a distributed
cargo characteristic using the network of sensors; and modifying at
least one airflow setting for the discharge ports responsive to the
received information related to the distributed cargo
characteristic.
19. The method of claim 18, comprising: providing the discharge
ports along a length of an air passageway, the air passageway to
extend away from the transport refrigeration unit; determining the
location of each of a network of temperature sensors; and
determining the location of each of the discharge ports.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/254,289 entitled "Spatial Control Of
Conditioned Gas Delivery For Transport Refrigeration System To
Include Cargo Spatial Temperature Distribution, And Methods For
Same" filed on Oct. 23, 2009. The content of this application is
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to the field of transport
refrigeration systems and methods of operating the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] To safely transport perishable items, the items must be
maintained within a temperature range to reduce or prevent,
depending on the items, spoilage, or conversely damage from
freezing. A transport refrigeration unit is used to maintain proper
temperatures within a transport cargo space. The transport
refrigeration unit can be under the direction of a controller. The
controller can regulate conditioned air delivery by the transport
refrigeration unit to a container or the transport cargo space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In view of the background, it is an aspect of the
application to provide a transport refrigeration system, transport
refrigeration unit, and methods of operating same for maintaining
cargo quality by selectively controlling one or more transport
refrigeration system components.
[0005] One embodiment according to the application can include a
control module for a transport refrigeration system. The control
module includes a controller for controlling the transport
refrigeration system to operate at least one vent in a chute
extending away from the supply port and/or return port of the
transport refrigeration system.
[0006] One embodiment according to the application can include a
control module for a transport refrigeration system. The control
module includes a controller for controlling the transport
refrigeration system to regulate air flow amount or flow direction
from a plurality of vents in one or more air delivery chutes
operatively coupled to a supply port and/or return port of the
transport refrigeration system.
[0007] One embodiment according to the application can include a
control module for a transport refrigeration system. The control
module can regulate air flow amount or flow direction from one or
more air delivery chutes operatively coupled to a supply port of
the transport refrigeration system responsive to a network of
sensors. The network of sensors can be in the container and/or the
cargo. The network of sensors can be temperature sensors.
[0008] One embodiment according to the application can include a
control module for a transport refrigeration system. The control
module can include a controller for controlling the transport
refrigeration system to regulate air flow amount or flow direction
from one or more air delivery chutes operatively coupled to a
supply port and/or return port of the transport refrigeration
system responsive to a network of sensors. The network of sensors
can be for a cargo characteristic and used to reduce differences in
the cargo characteristic distributed throughout the container
and/or the cargo.
[0009] In an aspect of the invention, a transport refrigeration
unit includes a transport refrigeration unit operatively coupled to
an enclosed volume. A conditioned portion of the transport
refrigeration unit to include a supply port to output air to the
enclosed volume at a supply temperature, a return port to return
air from the enclosed volume to the transport refrigeration unit at
a return temperature, and a passageway from the supply port to the
enclosed volume to include a plurality of air flow volume
controllers or air flow direction controllers.
[0010] In an aspect of the invention, a transport refrigeration
unit for regulating the temperature of an enclosed volume can
include a refrigeration module including a supply port to output
air at a supply temperature; a return port to return air to the
refrigeration module at a return temperature; at least one air
plenum extending away from the refrigeration module, the plenum to
include at least one configurable port to operate in a plurality of
positions; and a controller coupled to regulate the operation of
said at least one configurable port module responsive to a
prescribed temperature.
[0011] In an aspect of the invention, an apparatus can include a
supply air plenum extending rearward from the refrigeration unit
toward the rear of the container that is arranged to receive supply
air from said refrigeration unit, the supply air plenum to provide
a continuous passageway through said container; a plurality of
discharge ports positioned along a length of the plenum, said
discharge ports to move between a first position to output air in a
first direction and a second position to output the air in a second
direction or in a different amount, and a plurality of temperature
sensors positioned within the container to provide a temperature
distribution in a spatial relationship to said plurality of
discharge ports; and a controller to determine when to move at
least one of the discharge ports between said first position and
said second position responsive to temperature provided by the
plurality of temperature sensors.
[0012] In an aspect of the invention, a method of operating a
transport refrigeration unit can include receiving identifying
information including location for a network of sensors, receiving
identifying information including location and air flow settings
for a plurality of discharge ports, the discharge ports to be
operationally coupled to the transport refrigeration unit,
receiving information related to a distributed cargo characteristic
using the network of sensors, and modifying at least one airflow
setting for the plurality of discharge ports responsive to the
received information related to the distributed cargo
characteristic.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Novel features that are characteristic of exemplary
embodiments of the invention are set forth with particularity in
the claims. Embodiments of the invention itself may be best be
understood, with respect to its organization and method of
operation, with reference to the following description taken in
connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system according to the application;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system according to the application;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system according to the application;
[0017] FIG. 4A is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system according to the application;
[0018] FIG. 4B is a diagram that shows an exemplary schematic
cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 4A;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an air
delivery system for a transport refrigeration system according to
an embodiment of the application;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of
an air plenum or chute according to the application;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of
an air plenum or chute according to the application; and
[0022] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of
an air plenum or chute according to the application.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0023] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary
embodiments of the application, examples of which are illustrated
in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference
numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same
or like parts.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system. As shown in FIG. 1, a transport refrigeration
system 100 can include a transport refrigeration unit 10 coupled to
an enclosed space within a container 12. The transport
refrigeration system 100 may be of the type commonly employed on
refrigerated trailers and maritime containers. As shown in FIG. 1,
the transport refrigeration unit 10 is configured to maintain a
prescribed thermal environment within the container 12 (e.g., cargo
in an enclosed volume).
[0025] In FIG. 1, the transport refrigeration unit 10 is connected
at one end of the container 12. Alternatively, the transport
refrigeration unit 10 can be coupled to a prescribed position on a
side or more than one side of the container 12. In one embodiment,
a plurality of transport refrigeration units can be coupled to a
single container 12. Alternatively, a single transport
refrigeration unit 10 can be coupled to a plurality of containers
12 or multiple enclosed spaces within a single container. The
transport refrigeration unit 10 can operate to induct air at a
first temperature and to exhaust air at a second temperature. In
one embodiment, the exhaust air from the transport refrigeration
unit 10 will be warmer than the inducted air such that the
transport refrigeration unit 10 is employed to warm the air in the
container 12. In one embodiment, the exhaust air from the transport
refrigeration unit 10 will be cooler than the inducted air such
that the transport refrigeration unit 10 is employed to cool the
air in the container 12. The transport refrigeration unit 10 can
induct air from the container 12 having a return temperature Tr
(e.g., first temperature) and exhaust air to the container 12
having a supply temperature Ts (e.g., second temperature).
[0026] In one embodiment, the transport refrigeration unit 10 can
include one or more temperature sensors to continuously or
repeatedly monitor the return temperature Tr and/or the supply
temperature Ts. As shown in FIG. 1, a first temperature sensor 24
of the transport refrigeration unit 10 can provide the supply
temperature Ts and a second temperature sensor 22 of the transport
refrigeration unit 10 can provide the return temperature Tr to the
transport refrigeration unit 10, respectively. Alternatively, the
supply temperature Ts and the return temperature Tr can be
determined using remote sensors.
[0027] A transport refrigeration system 100 can provide air with
controlled temperature, humidity or/and species concentration into
an enclosed chamber where cargo is stored such as in container 12.
As known to one skilled in the art, the transport refrigeration
system 100 (e.g., controller 250) is capable of controlling a
plurality of the environmental parameters or all the environmental
parameters within corresponding ranges with a great deal of variety
of cargos and under all types of ambient conditions.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system. As shown in FIG. 2, a transport refrigeration
system 200 can include a transport refrigeration unit 210 coupled
to a container 212, which can be used with a trailer, an intermodal
container, a train railcar, a ship or the like, used for the
transportation or storage of goods requiring a temperature
controlled environment, such as, for example foodstuffs and
medicines (e.g., perishable or frozen). The container 212 can
include an enclosed volume 214 for the transport/storage of such
goods. The enclosed volume 214 may be an enclosed space having an
interior atmosphere isolated from the outside (e.g., ambient
atmosphere or conditions) of the container 212.
[0029] The transport refrigeration unit 210 is located so as to
maintain the temperature of the enclosed volume 214 of the
container 212 within a predefined temperature range. In one
embodiment, the transport refrigeration unit 210 can include a
compressor 218, a condenser heat exchanger unit 222, a condenser
fan 224, an evaporation heat exchanger unit 226, an evaporation fan
228, and a controller 250. Alternatively, the condenser 222 can be
implemented as a gas cooler.
[0030] The compressor 218 can be powered by single phase electric
power, three phase electrical power, and/or a diesel engine and
can, for example, operate at a constant speed. The compressor 218
may be a scroll compressor, a rotary compressor, a reciprocal
compressor, or the like. The transport refrigeration system 200
requires electrical power from, and can be connected to a power
supply unit (not shown) such as a standard commercial power
service, an external power generation system (e.g., shipboard), a
generator (e.g., diesel generator), or the like.
[0031] The condenser heat exchanger unit 222 can be operatively
coupled to a discharge port of the compressor 218. The evaporator
heat exchanger unit 226 can be operatively coupled to an input port
of the compressor 218. An expansion valve 230 can be connected
between an output of the condenser heat exchanger unit 222 and an
input of the evaporator heat exchanger unit 226.
[0032] The condenser fan 224 can be positioned to direct an air
stream onto the condenser heat exchanger unit 222. The air stream
from the condenser fan 224 can allow heat to be removed from the
coolant circulating within the condenser heat exchanger unit
222.
[0033] The evaporator fan 228 can be positioned to direct an air
stream onto the evaporator heat exchanger unit 226. The evaporator
fan 228 can be located and ducted so as to circulate the air
contained within the enclosed volume 214 of the container 212. In
one embodiment, the evaporator fan 230 can direct the stream of air
across the surface of the evaporator heat exchanger unit 226. Heat
can thereby be removed from the air, and the reduced temperature
air can be circulated within the enclosed volume 214 of the
container 212 to lower the temperature of the enclosed volume
214.
[0034] The controller 250 such as, for example, a MicroLink.TM. 2i
controller available from Carrier Corporation of Syracuse, N.Y.,
USA, can be electrically connected to the compressor 218, the
condenser fan 224, and/or the evaporator fan 228. The controller
250 can be configured to operate the transport refrigeration unit
210 to maintain a predetermined environment (e.g., thermal
environment) within the enclosed volume 214 of the container 212.
The controller 250 can maintain the predetermined environment by
selectively controlling operations of the condenser fan 224, and/or
the evaporator fan 228 to operate at a low speed or a high speed.
For example, if increased cooling of the enclosed volume 214 is
required, the controller 250 can increase electrical power to the
compressor 218, the condenser fan 224, and the evaporator fan 228.
In one embodiment, an economy mode of operation of the transport
refrigeration unit 210 can be controlled by the controller 250. In
another embodiment, variable speeds of components of the transport
refrigeration unit 210 can be adjusted by the controller 250. In
another embodiment, a full cooling mode for components of the
transport refrigeration unit 210 can be controlled by the
controller 250. In one embodiment, the electronic controller 250
can adjust a flow of coolant supplied to the compressor 218.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows an embodiment of a transport
refrigeration system. As shown in FIG. 3, transport refrigeration
system 300 can include a transport refrigeration unit 310 to couple
to an enclosed space 314 within a container 312. As described
herein, the transport refrigeration systems, transport
refrigeration modules, components and methods for controlling the
same can operate in a cooling mode and a heating mode depending at
least in part upon the temperature of the conditioned space and the
ambient temperature of the environment outside the enclosed space
314. Air that is cooled or heated by the transport refrigeration
system 300 can be drawn by a fan (e.g., blower assembly),
conditioned and discharged into the enclosed space 314.
[0036] In one embodiment, the transport refrigeration unit 310 can
be considered to have a first refrigerated (e.g., conditioned)
portion for operative coupling to the enclosed space 314 and a
second ambient (e.g., not conditioned) portion that is insulated
from the enclosed space 314 (and the first refrigerated portion).
For example, an evaporator 326 and evaporator fan 328 can be in the
first refrigerated portion and a condenser 322 and a condenser fan
324 can be in the second ambient portion of the transport
refrigeration unit 310. A first wall 340 (e.g., physical and/or
thermal barrier) can be positioned between the first refrigerated
portion and the second ambient portion.
[0037] As shown in FIGS. 3-4B, the transport refrigeration unit 310
is in communication with the enclosed space 314 via a first opening
350 and a second opening 355 to maintain the enclosed volume 314 at
predetermined conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, etc.) during
transportation and/or storage in order to preserve the quality of
the cargo. The first opening 350 and the second opening 355 can be
in a first compartment wall 345 configured to face or be
operatively coupled to the enclosed space 314. A compartment 330
can enclose the transport refrigeration unit 310. As shown in FIG.
3, the compartment 330 is shown as a rectangular box; however, the
exterior shape of the compartment 330 can vary as known to one
skilled in the art. Generally, the transport refrigeration unit 310
is operable in a refrigeration mode and includes one or more
refrigeration components (not entirely shown), such as an
evaporator 336, one or more compressors, a condenser, one or more
fans, a receiver, and one or more expansion valves to route
refrigerant through the transport refrigeration unit 310. Such
arrangements are known in the art.
[0038] In one embodiment, vents 390 are controlled based on
relative position within the enclosed space 314, based on relative
position along plenums or chutes 370, distributed characteristic
determined by a plurality of sensors 380 in the container 312,
and/or based on the local temperature of the cargo (e.g.,
correspondingly positioned in the enclosed space 314) as determined
by a network of temperature sensors spatially distributed
throughout the cargo and/or the container 312. In one embodiment, a
distributed characteristic can include humidity, temperature,
presence of gases, chemicals, and/or scheduling (e.g.,
delivery)
[0039] The supply air can be released from the vents 390 that are
controlled based on relative position in the enclosed space 314. In
one embodiment, the vents 390 can be fixed sized openings in the
chutes 370 with structures (e.g., mechanical) controlling an amount
of air flow released therefrom or variable sized openings regulated
or controlled by the controller 350' (not shown). In one
embodiment, a direction of air flow output by the vents output 390
can be controlled (e.g., 0.degree.-360.degree. in a horizontal
plane, 0.degree.-90.degree. in a vertical plane, or controlled in
3-D space).
[0040] According to embodiments of the application, one or more
chutes 370 extend away from the second opening 355 to deliver
supply air in a controlled fashion to the enclosed space 314. In
one embodiment, the chutes 370 can extend an entire length of the
trailer or the container 312. In one embodiment, the chutes 370 can
extend less than the full length including but not limited to,
extending up to 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, etc. of the length of the
trailer or the container 312. The chutes 370 are operatively
coupled to receive the supply air from the transport refrigeration
unit 310 (e.g., from the second opening 355). The chutes 370 can
release or controllably deliver the supply air to the enclosed
space 314 using a plurality of controllable vents 390 in the chutes
370.
[0041] In one embodiment, the chutes 370 can include a single chute
370a extending from the second opening 355 along the top of the
container 312 spaced from sides of the container 312. The chute
370a can extend down the center top of the container 312 or the
enclosed space 314. Alternatively, the chutes 370 can comprise a
plurality of chutes 370a, 370b, . . . 370n extending along the top
of the container 312 spaced from the sides of the container 312.
Further, the chutes 370a, 370b, . . . 370n can join together or
split apart and separate along the distance from the second opening
355. Thus, in one embodiment, a single chute 370a could extend from
the second opening 355 before separating into a plurality of chutes
370. In one embodiment, when chutes 370 recombine/join or separate,
an air control device such as but not limited to a baffle or valve
can be positioned at such junctures to selectively determine a
ratio of air entering or leaving each of the plurality of
sub-chutes before separation or conjuncture.
[0042] In one embodiment, chutes 370 can include a single chute
370a' extending across a top of the container 312 (e.g.,
continuously from side to side). The chute 370a' can extend away
from the second opening 355 partially or completely to a back of
the container 312. In one embodiment, the chute 370a' can also
include drop portions 378 that extend vertically from a top surface
toward the floor of the container 312. In one embodiment, the drop
portions 378 extend adjacent or near one or both sides of the
container 312. In one embodiment, the drop portions 378 extend
spaced across part of or the entire top of the container 312. The
drop portions 378 of the chutes 370 can extend at least 10%, 25%,
50%, or more than 50% toward the floor of the container 312.
Further, the chute 370a' can subdivide as it extends away from the
second opening 355.
[0043] In one embodiment, the chutes 370 can include chutes 370a''
comprising at least one chute extending along a side surface of the
container 312. In one embodiment, the chutes 370a'', 370b''
comprise two chutes where one extends away from the second opening
355 along respectively the top and each opposing side of the
container 312 (or the enclosed space 314). Alternatively, the
chutes 370a'', 370b', . . . 370n' can extend along sidewalls of the
container 312 but vertically spaced from the top. The chutes
370a'', 370b'', . . . 370n'' can each subdivide and/or recombine
along a length extending away from the second opening 355.
[0044] In exemplary embodiments, the second opening 355 can include
a number of spaced sub-openings 355a, 355b, . . . , 355n so that
each of the plurality of chutes 370 (e.g., 370a, 370b, . . . 370n)
can extend from a corresponding second sub-opening 355a, 355b, . .
. , 355n.
[0045] In one embodiment, the chutes 370 can include the two side
walls and the roof as being two layer structures where supply air
flows completely through and between the two layer structures of
the side walls and roof and then vents 390 can be positioned as
desired (e.g., anywhere along the roof 321, or sidewalls 322, 323).
In such an embodiment, the container 312 or enclosed space 314 may
lose some overall size (e.g., 1-12 inches (3-30 cm) on the top and
lose 1-12 inches (2-30 cm) on the sides) however, the capability
for air flow control to provide the supply air anywhere within the
enclosed space 314 would be added (e.g., without ducts or chutes
370). In such an embodiment, the vents 390 can include controllable
holes that can be open, partially open, directional, or closed.
[0046] In one embodiment, the chutes 370 can include flexible ducts
that can be pre-installed or maneuvered into position based upon
the cargo in the container 312.
[0047] In one embodiment, the configuration of the chutes 370 can
be pre-determined or optimized computer designed configuration(s)
that can (e.g., remove 90 degree corners and subdivide/recombine)
controllably provide or direct supply air into each area/position
in the container 312. Generally any potential configuration of the
chutes 370 from the second opening 355 (or sub-openings 355a, 355b,
. . . , 355n) to deliver supply air can be considered. Equivalent
methodologies and/or apparatus are known to one of ordinary skill
in the art to provide passageways for supply air like chutes 370 or
means for air delivery to be delivered to an enclosed space 314 of
a refrigeration transport system; and all equivalent methodologies
and/or chutes are considered to fall within the scope of
embodiments of the application.
[0048] In one embodiment, a network of sensors 380 sufficient to
determine localized variations in at least one characteristic
(e.g., temperature, presence of gas, humidity, etc.) in the
enclosed space 314 or cargo (e.g., distributed characteristic
sensing means) is operatively coupled to the transport
refrigeration system or controller 350'. In one embodiment, a
network of sensors 380 sufficient to determine localized
temperature variations in cargo temperature is supplied and/or
positioned among the cargo, the enclosed space 314 and/or the
container 312. The sensors 380 can be various temperature sensors
as known to one skilled in the art that are operatively coupled to
the controller 350' (e.g., wired or wireless). In one embodiment,
the sensors 380 can include RFID capabilities. The network of
sensors 380 can be a 2D grid at a prescribed height between the
bottom and top of the enclosed space 314. In one embodiment, the
network of sensors 380 can be a 3D grid disposed throughout the
enclosed space 314. For example, the sensors 380 can be positioned
separated by at least 1', 2', 4', 6', 8', or the like in the 2D or
3D configuration. However, embodiments of the application are not
intended to be so limited. For example, the network of sensors 380
can arbitrarily or randomly disposed in the enclosed space 314, the
container 312, or the cargo, and then the corresponding data can be
processed, interpolated, or estimated to provide the localized
temperature distributions in the transport refrigeration system
300. The interpolated data can result in a grid 2D or 3D grids of
temperature data or the distributed (cargo) characteristic.
[0049] In one embodiment, a network of sensors 380 sufficient to
determine localized temperature variations can be stationary. Such
stationary sensors 380 can be mounted on the sides 322, 323
(ceilings, support structures, ducts, fans etc.) of the container
312, the shipping materials supporting or containing the cargo
(e.g., pallets) or disposed throughout the cargo itself. In one
embodiment, cargo can be individually packaged, packaged as a group
(e.g., boxed or bagged) or packaged as a set of groups (e.g., for
loading). In such exemplary shipping configurations, the sensors
380 can be disposed per individual item (e.g., every 1, 5, 10, 100,
or 1000 items), 1 or more sensor 380 per group of individual items
(e.g., box), 1 or more sensor 380 per loadable unit to be shipped
or loaded in the container 312 or the like. In one embodiment, the
sensors 380 are positioned near each corner of each loadable unit.
According to embodiments of the application, the networks of
sensors 380 can operate to provide localized differences in
temperature to enable the control of vents 390 in combination with
chutes 370 to reduce or eliminate temperature fluctuations that can
damage or lead to damage of cargo in the enclosed space 314.
[0050] In one embodiment, a network of sensors 380 sufficient to
determine localized temperature variations can be movable or
movably configured within the container 312. For example, the
network of sensors 380 can be controllable mounted on a track or
system of wires such that individual sensors 380 can be moved to
obtain more granularity for localized temperatures or be moved
toward temperature sensitive cargo portions. Alternatively, the
network of sensors 380 can be moved toward larger temperature
differences. In one embodiment, the exemplary moveable network of
sensors 380 can be self-powered or movable by outside force applied
by one or more controllable mechanisms. In one embodiment, various
arrangements of movable sensors 380 or networks of movable sensors
380 can be controlled by the controller 350'. In one embodiment,
arrangements of movable sensors 380 can be controllable moved by
the controller 350' from first prescribed configuration to a second
prescribed configuration different from first configuration. For
example, differences implemented by the second configuration can
include but are not limited to the second configuration increasing
a granularity of localized information (e.g., temperature) in one
area relative to the first configuration, decreasing a granularity,
replacing defective sensors, reducing active sensors to save power,
massing sensors relative to type of cargo (e.g., sensitivity to
temperature), or attempting to resolve anomalies in one or more
sensor readings.
[0051] The network of sensors 380 can determine localized
temperatures (e.g., 2D grids or 3D grids) to encompass the cargo in
the enclosed space 314. In one embodiment, the network of sensors
380 can be used to correlate sensed conditions (e.g., temperatures)
to the plurality of vents 390. For example, one grid section, or a
plurality of grid sections determined using the sensors 380 can
correspond to a vent 390a, 390b, . . . 390n of the vents 390 of the
chutes 370. Alternatively, one sensor, two sensors, three or more
sensors 380 can correspond to a vent 390a, 390b, . . . 390n of the
vents 390. In one embodiment, a plurality of vents 390a, 390b, . .
. 390n can correspond to a single sensor 380 or grid section as
defined by the sensors 380. Accordingly, a localized cargo
temperature difference (e.g., in one grid section) can be
determined by the controller 350' and at least one corresponding
vent 390a, 390b, . . . 390n can be adjusted (e.g., size increase or
damper position relatively increased/decreased) to control for and
reduce (or eliminate) the localized temperature difference. The
localized temperature difference can be below or above a desired
temperature threshold, or the localized temperature difference can
be below or above at least one neighboring temperature.
[0052] In one embodiment, the vents 390 can adjust the flow of air.
In one embodiment, the vents 390 can adjust the direction of air
flow. For example, the vent can include a nozzle that can be moved
in a prescribed x/y direction, around a 360 degree arc or the like.
In one embodiment, the vents 390 can adjust the flow and/or
direction of air. As known by those skilled in the art, vent sizes
can be increased or decreased by alternative mechanical
apparatuses. In selected configurations of the chutes 370 and/or
vents 390, static pressure losses can increase so that increased
air flow to/in the chutes 370 may be desired based on respective
applications thereof.
[0053] According to embodiments of the application, the vents 390
are intended to control air flow out of (or into) the chutes 370 at
its location. Thus, the vents 390 are intended to be air flow
regulators or operate to meter the air flow. In one embodiment, the
vents 390 include a mechanical device that changes position or
shape to controllably moderate the air flow. For example, the vents
390 can include louvers or a valve such as a butterfly valve or a
solenoid valve. In one embodiment, the vents 390 can include a flat
disc with an off-center hole and a local actuator to reciprocally
slide the disc over corresponding vent(s) 390. Alternatively, the
vents 390 can operate to regulate air flow amount or direction.
[0054] In one embodiment, the vents 390 can include a shape memory
alloy capable of changing its configuration or size to moderate air
flow there through. Equivalent methodologies and/or apparatus are
known to one of ordinary skill in the art to regulate or provide
controlled air flow volume and/or direction for supply air to be
delivered (e.g., air flow direction means or air flow volume means)
to an enclosed space 314 of a refrigeration transport system from
the vents 390; and all equivalent methodologies and/or vents are
consider to fall within the scope of embodiments of the
application.
[0055] In one example, the container 312 cargo can include
stackable cargo depending on the product. Loaded cargo can be
provided front to back in the container with return air flowing
under the cargo. For example, all the return flow can go from on
top of the cargo (e.g., below chutes 370), through gaps or a little
bit of room can be left in-between loaded cargo and on sides of
stacked cargo, and back along the bottom 324 (e.g., thru the pallet
spacing).
[0056] Embodiments of transport refrigeration units and methods for
using the same according to the application have been described a
generally a static configuration of chutes 370, sensor 380, and/or
vents 390. However, embodiments are not intended to be so limited.
For example, sensor networks, vents or the like can to include
reconfigurable networks. In one embodiment, reconfigurable networks
includes transport refrigeration systems where sensors or vents are
getting on the network and/or off the network intermittently,
repeatedly, periodically, aperiodically or responsive to an
operator action. In one embodiment, reconfigurable networks include
one or more chutes 370 mounted on rails to move about (e.g.,
side-to-side) the container. In one embodiment, reconfigurable
networks includes transport refrigeration systems where sensors or
vents that are changing such as but not limited to changing
locations intermittently, repeatedly, periodically, aperiodically
or responsive to an operator action.
[0057] In one embodiment, two separate sensors are compared and a
first sensor transmits a higher local temperature than a second
sensor, and the controller opens a vent 390a closer to the first
sensor and closes a vent 390b closer to the second sensor.
Alternatively, the controller can redirect air from vent 390b
toward the first sensor and/or away from the second sensor.
[0058] In one embodiment, a controller 350' can be enabled (e.g.,
sensor ready) and receive a plurality of temperature readings from
corresponding first sensors 380x in the cargo. The controller 350'
is also connected to actuate an unknown plurality of vents 390x in
the cargo area. For example, the controller 350' can be connected
using a standard wireless connection to the vents 390x and sensors
380x. The sensors 380x can transmit a temperature and their
location. Alternatively, the location of the sensors 380x can be
determined by the controller 350' when the sensors 380x transmit
their readings using signal strength (e.g., triangulation such as
point-to-point or broadcast) and the controller 350', one
designated sensor or a designated device or transceiver in the
container or nearby. The sensor ready controller 350' could then
sequentially open a single one of the vents 390x to determine a
location of each individual vent of the vents 390x (e.g., by
reported temperature changes of the sensors 380x when a single vent
is open). After receiving a configuration of sensor 380x and
determining a configuration of vents 390x, the controller 350' can
determine localized temperature differences of a cargo and operate
to reduce a temperature difference distributed in the cargo by
distributing/modifying air flow (or direction) through the vents
390x.
[0059] In one embodiment, a controller 350' can be enabled (e.g.,
sensor ready) and receive a plurality of temperature readings and
determine locations from corresponding sensors 380y in the cargo
and receive a plurality of airflow settings and determine locations
(e.g., transmission signal strength) from corresponding vents 390y
in the cargo area.
[0060] Embodiments according to the application were described
using exemplary chutes 370 coupled to a second opening 355 or the
supply air from the transport refrigeration system. However,
embodiments are not intended to be so limited; for example,
exemplary chutes (e.g., chutes 370) can be operatively coupled to
the return air or the first opening 350 of the transport
refrigeration system (e.g., instead of or in addition to the air
supply/second opening 355). In one embodiment, air flow returned to
the return port can be controlled to reduce difference in localized
temperatures or the like. For example, more return air can be
locally pulled from a portion of the enclosed space 314, which
would increase supply air to that portion to control localized
temperature. In loaded cargo, the return air can approach the
return port or first opening 350 by coming in under the cargo or
pallets (e.g., where the forks lifts slide before lifting the
pallets). In one embodiment, that area under the pallets or the
floor, or bottom 324 of the container 312 can be flat; however,
alternate configurations can provide additional grading to provide
channels, grooves, passages or chutes where the return air flow can
be regulated (e.g., without obstructing the fork lifts).
[0061] According to embodiments of the application, the networks of
sensors can operate to provide localized differences in temperature
to enable the control of vents in combination with chutes to reduce
or eliminate temperature fluctuations or to reduce power
consumption of transport refrigeration systems.
[0062] Embodiments according to the application were described
using a single second opening 355; however, embodiments are not
intended to be so limited. For example, two second openings, three
or more second openings can be provided according to embodiments of
the application. In one embodiment, the second opening 355 can be
equal or greater in number to a number of chutes 370.
[0063] Embodiments of transport refrigeration systems or units, air
delivery chutes in containers, containers and methods for using
same according to the application can maintain a prescribed thermal
environment for a cargo in a container regardless of weather
conditions, environment breaches (e.g., door openings), various
initial temperature distributions of cargo, various types of cargo,
various heat transfer characteristics of cargo, or enclosed spaces
314, and/or various temperature regulation requirements of
cargo.
[0064] Embodiments of transport refrigeration systems or units, air
delivery chutes (e.g., in containers), containers and methods for
using same according to the application can effectively operate
with various cargo types including, but not limited to air blocking
cargo (e.g., shrink wrapped, frozen), air passing cargo (e.g.,
stacked cargo with passages in between each), air diffusing cargos,
etc.
[0065] Exemplary embodiments of chutes 370 were described using
unchanging cross-sections. However, embodiments according to the
application are not intended to be so limited. For example, various
changing cross-sections including but not limited to tapered,
non-linear, stepped may be used. Further, various different
cross-section shapes including but not limited to circular,
rectangular, square, triangular of the vent 390 can be used.
[0066] The container 12 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be towed by a
semi-truck for road transport. However, those having ordinary skill
in the art will appreciate that exemplary containers according to
embodiments of the application is not limited to such trailers and
may encompass, by way of example only and not by way of limitation,
intermodal containers, trailers adapted for piggy-back use,
railroad cars, and container bodies contemplated for land and sea
service.
[0067] Components of the transport refrigeration unit (e.g.,
motors, fans, sensors), as known to one skilled in the art, can
communicate with a controller (e.g., transport refrigeration unit
10) through wire or wireless communications. For example, wireless
communications can include one or more radio transceivers such as
one or more of 802.11 radio transceiver, Bluetooth radio
transceiver, GSM/GPS radio transceiver or WIMAX (802.16) radio
transceiver. Information collected by sensor and components can be
used as input parameters for a controller to control various
components in transport refrigeration systems. In one embodiment,
sensors may monitor additional criteria such as humidity, species
concentration or the like in the container.
[0068] Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including,"
"comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as
well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise,
the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and
variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and
indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further,
"connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or
mechanical connections or couplings.
[0069] While the present invention has been described with
reference to a number of specific embodiments, it will be
understood that the true spirit and scope of the invention should
be determined only with respect to claims that can be supported by
the present specification. Further, while in numerous cases herein
wherein systems and apparatuses and methods are described as having
a certain number of elements it will be understood that such
systems, apparatuses and methods can be practiced with fewer than
the mentioned certain number of elements. Also, while a number of
particular embodiments have been set forth, it will be understood
that features and aspects that have been described with reference
to each particular embodiment can be used with each remaining
particularly set forth embodiment. For example, aspects or features
described with respect to embodiments directed to FIGS. 6-7 can be
used with embodiments directed to FIG. 5.
* * * * *