Abstract:
Self-contained refrigeration units include evaporator modules, condenser modules, compressor modules, control subassemblies, and all other refrigeration components in compact interconnected modular packages. The modules, which are assembled in rigid or flexible self-contained monoblock refrigeration units, are installable, removable and replaceable as complete self-contained refrigeration units without requiring transport downtime for servicing and repairing of the refrigeration units. Vehicles with refrigeration systems arrive at a distributor and have malfunctioning units removed and complete units replaced and installed and are back on the road within minutes. Dealers&#39; inventories are small and non complex and dealers&#39; workers need not be skilled transport refrigeration mechanics. Dealer trucks have light cranes to remove and replace complete self-contained refrigeration units on site.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/629,887, filed Nov. 23, 2004, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This invention relates to transport refrigeration systems and methods. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Transport refrigeration systems are used with vehicles and mobile containers for temperature control, primarily maintaining goods in preselected temperature ranges. The systems are used in cargo containers on trailers and ships. The systems are used on large commercial trailers, on small vans and delivery trucks, and on all trucks irrespective of size. The systems may be used with passenger vehicles, particularly buses and vans. 
         [0004]    Existing transport refrigeration systems come in many forms, shapes, models and sizes, all with different parts. Refrigeration dealers and repair facilities are required to keep large inventories of units and parts, along with large service networks containing highly skilled and highly paid refrigeration mechanics. Transport refrigeration systems are expensive to acquire, operate and maintain. Refrigeration systems must be operated and maintained so that buildings, factories, warehouses, offices, apartments and homes can be continuously used without interruption or discomfort to occupants. When trucks and buses are involved, the downtime for needed repairs and replacements is a major disadvantage and economic loss. 
         [0005]    Most trucking direct drive transport refrigeration systems are not capable of holding a constant deep frozen refrigeration when transporting goods in heavily congested traffic areas or in busy multiple drop delivery routes. Frequent stops and multiple door openings while truck engines are idling reduce available refrigeration and require high capacity quick recovery. Secondary power sources or dedicated engines are needed to accommodate deep frozen requirements, even in very small trucks. The secondary power sources or dedicated engines add expense, maintenance and waste to deep freeze refrigerated transports. 
         [0006]    In most cases, when trucks having refrigerated cargo containers need refrigeration repairs, it is first necessary to unload the container and transfer the frozen or chilled goods to a cold warehouse or to another refrigerated container. 
         [0007]    Needs exist for improved transport refrigeration systems. Needs also exist for improved delivery systems, methods and apparatus for refrigeration, freezing and air conditioning without requiring massive inventories, expert workers and delays in delivering repair, replacement and service parts. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    The invention provides a new transport temperature controlled refrigeration system. The new system includes new transport refrigeration housing platforms which are compact, self-contained, removable, modular and flexible. The new transport refrigeration has variable capacity and full temperature range and is universally driven. 
         [0009]    The new transport refrigeration housing platform is useful with any transport refrigeration technology. 
         [0010]    The new transport refrigeration systems have flexible interconnections and twistable tubing between modules. Fixing frames connect the systems to containers, which have outside and inside covers. Evaporator and condenser fans are mounted on module lids or on the container-mounted covers. 
         [0011]    The units provide variable capacity and full temperature ranges and are universally driven. 
         [0012]    The new transport refrigeration control subassemblies are preassembled by their functions. Preassembled modules have the preassembled control subassemblies, compressors, condensers and evaporators. Universally driven, variable displacement, hermetically sealed compressors have universal driver joints. The compressor modules include compressors, driver joints and vapor, liquid and compressor temperature control subassemblies. 
         [0013]    The invention provides a new transport refrigeration business method with a plug and play system of standard complete unit exchanges by mechanics not skilled in refrigeration systems. 
         [0014]    Installers do not have large inventories of small parts or components, but have small inventories of large application complete refrigeration units ready for installation and exchange. 
         [0015]    The invention provides new transport refrigeration methods, new transport refrigeration apparatus for fine temperature control and new transport refrigeration business methods. 
         [0016]    The new invention overcomes existing difficulties and supplies solutions for long-felt needs. 
         [0017]    At the heart of the invention are self-contained refrigeration units, which include evaporator modules with coils and fans, condenser modules with coils and fans, compressors and motors to drive the compressors, and all other refrigeration components, all in compact modular packages. 
         [0018]    These modules, which are assembled in different types of flexible monoblock units, are replaceable as units from limited inventories, without requiring downtime of servicing, repairing or remanufacturing. Vehicles with dysfunctional refrigeration systems arriving at a distributor installer have replacement modules installed and are back on the road within minutes. 
         [0019]    In one embodiment where the refrigeration unit is mounted above a truck cab, the outer module may be raised without moving the inner modules. That permits swinging the vehicle&#39;s cab without interrupting the refrigeration cycle. 
         [0020]    The new plug and play monoblock units contain all of the refrigeration components and elements and the refrigerant. Only the large components are shown for clarity in understanding the invention. 
         [0021]    The preferred configurations are the rigid monoblock units and flexible monoblock units. 
         [0022]    An entire monoblock refrigeration unit is removable and replaceable without the need for alternative refrigeration and skilled labor, and without lengthy down times with attendant economic losses. 
         [0023]    A refrigeration service may own, install, remove and replace all of the refrigeration monoblock units and lease the refrigeration to truck owners, either on a monthly, quarterly, yearly, mile or load basis. 
         [0024]    In one form of the invention, a distributor installer contracts with vehicle and fleet owners to provide required refrigeration and refrigerating units. The dealer owns the modular units and removes defective units and replaces entire refrigeration units from the dealer&#39;s limited inventory. The dealer ships the removed units to centralized remanufacturing or repairing facilities. The entire dealer operations can be conducted without skilled refrigeration mechanics. The requirements for worker skills are limited to unbolting the modular units from supports on vehicles after first removing the outer covers, which belong to the vehicles and remain with the vehicles. The self-contained complete replacement units are inserted and bolted in place by the same workers, and the vehicle is on its way in less than half an hour. No cargo unloading and temporary refrigeration is required. No specialized refrigeration mechanics or diesel mechanics are required. 
         [0025]    Truck owners do not have to buy refrigeration products or to make final buying decisions, eliminating the risk of obsolescence. Also, the truck owners or customers pay for refrigeration in periodic installments. The customers save valuable working capital, which can be used in other revenue-generating areas. The customers can keep credit lines intact, and can treat payments as business expenses, fully deductible for tax purposes. 
         [0026]    Preferably the inner and outer covers of the refrigeration units are made of high impact thermoformable ABS UV-resistant and protected plastic. 
         [0027]    The flexible monoblock housings are preferably made of engineered resin technology with high-tech engineered polymers. The rugged units are as strong as steel and extremely light. 
         [0028]    Smaller truck units have variable displacement swash plate piston compressors. Digital horizontal variable displacement scroll compressors are used for large enclosure. 
         [0029]    The new comprehensive transport refrigeration system provides refrigeration systems that are modular and compact, self-contained, removable and flexible. The compact nature of the new refrigeration systems increases payload and is lighter in weight than existing systems. The systems are self-contained. No refrigerant lines, fittings or other refrigeration components are external to the unit in the one-piece monoblock units. 
         [0030]    The entire refrigeration system is removable and replaceable in a plug and play concept. Service logistics are simplified by changing complete units. There is no need to stock large amounts of spare parts, just a few complete units. There is no need for specialized personnel or costly, large service networks. It is very easy to build a service network. 
         [0031]    The systems are modular and have the same footprints. A plurality of numerous units and configuration arrangements are available with a small number of modules. The modular system is excellent for single or multiple partition containers. 
         [0032]    The new comprehensive transport refrigeration system is flexible in providing for a possibility of numerous unit mounting locations. The flexible nature of the new refrigeration system provides the possibility of servicing multiple different configurations of trucks with a single flexible design unit. Inventory streamlining shows that with minimal expense and minimal inventory different types of trucks may be serviced with mechanics that are not skilled in refrigeration systems. 
         [0033]    Refrigeration modulations provide variable output of the refrigeration systems with constant cooling capacities having no relation with truck engine speeds. Refrigeration capacities are constant at all truck engine speeds and at idle. The systems follow and match refrigeration loads and provide full performance, even at idle. The new systems provide faster temperature pull-down and recovery times and are excellent for busy multiple drop applications in which the container is repeatedly opened. The new systems provide high efficiencies, resulting in energy savings, because the systems draw only the power that is currently needed. The new systems have about thirty percent less energy consumption and about fifty percent less fuel consumption than dedicated diesel units or in applications with other dedicated power sources. The systems use just about six percent of vehicle fuel consumption. 
         [0034]    Optimum temperature management is provided, which eliminates or greatly reduces cycling operations. Precise temperature control and minimal load temperature fluctuations are provided by the new system, which has the capacity of holding a specific temperature to about plus or minus a half degree Fahrenheit. Accuracy on temperature management prolongs defrost cycle intervals and completes them in less time. The same units are suitable for fresh, frozen and deep frozen applications. The same truck or trailer refrigeration system may be used for different temperature requirements. 
         [0035]    Temperature management and refrigeration modulation is achieved by the present invention. 
         [0036]    An electronic control unit (ECU) monitors cargo space temperature. The ECU initiates the refrigeration cycle when warranted by present conditions. The ECU modulates the compressor&#39;s capacity in direct proportion to the cooling requirements. 
         [0037]    In a swash plate type variable displacement compressor, the ECU controls the swash plate actuation and compressor displacement by sending an electrical signal to a proportional solenoid valve. 
         [0038]    Changes in refrigeration load are anticipated and responded to in the quickest manner to ensure the maintenance of desired cargo area temperature. 
         [0039]    When cargo doors are opened, door sensors stop the evaporator fans to prevent drawing in ambient air. The cargo door sensors start an immediate pull down cycle if the cargo area temperature warrants such response. 
         [0040]    Refrigerant suction pressure sensors and discharge pressure sensors at various locations, analyze current load requirements and result in adjustments to the refrigeration equipment, compressor capacity, driver modulation, evaporator fan speed and condenser fan speed to maximize the effectiveness of the refrigeration cycle. The evaporator coil is monitored and automatically initiates a defrost cycle when ice build-up is detected. In addition, scheduled defrost cycles are initiated in anticipation of icing conditions. The ECU also maintains a continuous log of all measured variables and equipment run times. 
         [0041]    The new comprehensive transport refrigeration systems are primarily vehicle powered. That provides reductions in operational costs, less maintenance and less weight, and is environmentally friendly with less noise and less emissions. 
         [0042]    Optional self-powered systems operate independently of the vehicle power source with dedicated power sources, e.g. diesel engines outside of the refrigeration chassis. 
         [0043]    Standby simplicity is provided with different prime mover and power source options. They can be portable; standby units have the opportunity of occasionally being rented as well. 
         [0044]    If a truck engine is stopped with a refrigerated cargo in the container, a standby power source may be provided. 
         [0045]    In the flexible shaft-driven version, a flexible shaft is attached to a quick-connect coupling at the vehicle engine and is connected to a universal drive quick-connect coupling on an electric motor. 
         [0046]    Operations in the small truck refrigeration system exchange shops are simple and quick and do not require highly trained dealer networks. The shops employ quickly trained mechanics whose skills are limited to unbolting, removing, inserting and bolting in complete replacement systems. No special investments in training, facilities and tools are required. Inventories are small and are limited to complete refrigeration units. The only downtime that is required is the time necessary to remove a cover, disconnect a drive from a quick connect, remove nuts and withdraw a complete unit, slide in another complete unit, reattach the nuts, couple the driver to the quick connect and replace the cover. A mobile service truck with a quarter-ton lift arm and simple wrenches may take the required replacement unit to a truck and replace the refrigeration unit while a driver is eating lunch, for example. 
         [0047]    In one embodiment, the new system requires no initial investment or maintenance plan. Refrigeration may be leased on time or usage basis. Leased equipment never requires purchase of replacements. Replacements are provided as part of refrigeration leasing services. 
         [0048]    Precise temperature controls are simplified and are limited to digital displays and selection buttons for selecting required temperature in the container. The simplified controls keep records of cargo container temperatures and offer printouts of temperature history when the cargo is delivered at its destination. 
         [0049]    In the electrical drive versions, the electric systems are user friendly and use clean and simple drive lines and connections. Energy storage is provided when using DC electricity, batteries, having DC motors and components, and high efficiency is provided. 
         [0050]    The new system requires less energy, less maintenance, less attention and less care. Quicker, faster installation and servicing is provided by the quick disconnect features. This quick disconnect feature also provides roll-on/roll-off capability on refrigerated boxes. Problems with the refrigeration modules can be solved off-line without truck or container down times and with workers who are not skilled refrigeration mechanics. The simplicity of the refrigeration and driver components provides long-lasting quality and reliability. The system is progressive, flexible, modular and universal, and requires less cost for operation investment and inventories. All of these characteristics together provide more freedoms for the users. 
         [0051]    The new system provides for sale of refrigeration services with provisions for maintenance, exchange, repair and replacement or sale of refrigeration equipment. A third party may own, replace and lease refrigeration systems without the necessity of truck operators and owners tying up capital by buying and maintaining refrigeration systems. Major advantages of the new system are that refrigeration systems may be removed and replaced quickly by other than skilled refrigeration-trained mechanics in shops that have limited inventories. 
         [0052]    Modules include evaporator coils and fans, condenser coils and fans, compressors and motors to drive the compressors and fans, all in tight modular packages. Refrigerant lines are short, and require no purging by experienced workers. Tubes connecting the modular elements are rearrangable so that the modular units may be mounted on vertical, horizontal, sloping or curved surfaces of vehicles. 
         [0053]    The modular units and drives are self-regulating, so that desired temperatures are maintained in the refrigerated, freezer or air conditioned volumes. When additional capacity is required, additional modular units are mounted on the enclosure. The units may be mounted side by side on the front of a truck box or trailer or cargo container, or the units may be spaced along the top of a truck box, trailer, cargo container or bus, for example. 
         [0054]    The modular units may be in one of several forms. 
         [0055]    In preferred embodiments, the modules have flexible housing enclosures and tubes that are rearrangable and shiftable with rotation of the compressor, accumulator, evaporator coil and condenser coil. 
         [0056]    In one embodiment where the refrigeration unit is mounted partially behind the cab, the outer module may be raised without moving the inner module before both modules are removed. That permits removing the refrigeration unit from the truck body without relatively displacing the cab or the truck body. That also permits swinging the vehicle&#39;s cab without disconnecting a refrigeration unit that projects above a roof of a tilting cab. 
         [0057]    The modular refrigeration circuit doubles as a heat pump with multiple ranges. Proportional compressor capacity modulators, refrigerant flow regulator, modular expansion valves, proportional modular suction regulators and refrigerant reservoirs provide the flexibility. A universal programmable and intelligent electronic control unit includes set point adjusters, comparators and sensors. The control units use wireless or wired data transfer to provide real time and historic temperature and operation data. Password control allows remote setting or changing of set points. 
         [0058]    Twistable tube lines are provided to interconnect Configuration A or Configuration B modules. 
         [0059]    In mobile applications, refrigeration is provided for vehicles with modules having flexible fixing frames. The vehicles have a refrigeration opening with an inside cover having locks. Preferably an outside cover is provided, which remains with the vehicle. The modules are mounted between the covers. 
         [0060]    Ducting in the modules provides for wall, rooftop or undermount. 
         [0061]    The system provides closed circuit refrigeration or discharged air in either a single temperature or multiple selectable temperatures. 
         [0062]    The new systems provide air conditionings for drivers&#39; cabins, buses and other applications of specialty vehicles, trains and boats. 
         [0063]    Stationary applications include refrigeration and air conditioning. 
         [0064]    These and further and other objects and features of the invention are apparent in the disclosure, which includes the above and ongoing written specification, with the claims and the drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0065]      FIG. 1  is an outline of the refrigeration system. 
           [0066]      FIG. 2  schematically shows some of the improved features of the invention. 
           [0067]      FIG. 3  schematically shows uses and improved features of the invention. 
           [0068]      FIG. 4  schematically shows the new universally driven refrigeration systems. 
           [0069]      FIG. 5  shows variations in the new transport refrigeration units. 
           [0070]      FIG. 6  is an outline of the new transport refrigeration system. 
           [0071]      FIG. 7  shows advantages of the new transport refrigeration system. 
           [0072]      FIG. 8  is a chart of transportation refrigeration variables in fixed systems. 
           [0073]      FIGS. 9A , B and C show the new rigid monoblock transport refrigeration system used in plug and play units mounted within varied external covers. 
           [0074]      FIG. 10  shows an alternate rigid or flexible monoblock configuration of the new transport refrigeration system. 
           [0075]      FIG. 11  shows a top of a container mount for the flexible monoblock refrigeration system. 
           [0076]      FIG. 12  shows an internal container mount configuration. 
           [0077]      FIG. 13  shows four possible applications of the new modules in the flexible monoblock transport refrigeration system. 
           [0078]      FIGS. 14A , B and C shows varied condenser coil positions in a new transport refrigeration system. 
           [0079]      FIG. 15  shows varied positions of condenser coils and fans. 
           [0080]      FIG. 16  shows relative positions of condenser coils and fans in a roof-mounted system. 
           [0081]      FIG. 17  shows flexible monoblock configuration variations for differing condenser fan and coil positions in an internally mounted system. 
           [0082]      FIG. 18  shows modules concept and configurations of the new comprehensive transport refrigeration systems. 
           [0083]      FIG. 19  shows split configurations with flexible hoses. 
           [0084]      FIG. 20  shows one rigid monoblock configuration. 
           [0085]      FIG. 21  shows a new liftable monoblock configuration. 
           [0086]      FIG. 22  shows a liftable condenser module mechanism. 
           [0087]      FIG. 23  is a diagram of tilt cab trucks showing the need for liftable condenser modules. 
           [0088]      FIG. 24  shows a flexible monoblock configuration. 
           [0089]      FIG. 25  shows differing flexible monoblock configurations. 
           [0090]      FIG. 26  shows flexible monoblock elements with nine different configurations. 
           [0091]      FIG. 27  shows flexible monoblock layouts. 
           [0092]      FIG. 28  shows tray-mounted modules and joints. 
           [0093]      FIG. 29  shows components in some of the modules. 
           [0094]      FIG. 30  is a schematic representation of a flexible power source and drive unit. 
           [0095]      FIG. 31  shows modular units in multi partition refrigeration systems. 
           [0096]      FIG. 32  shows condenser modules and lids. 
           [0097]      FIG. 33  shows mountings of condenser fans on lids that are varied. 
           [0098]      FIG. 34  shows evaporator modules with elements. 
           [0099]      FIG. 35  shows varied evaporator fan access features. 
           [0100]      FIG. 36  shows varied evaporator layouts. 
           [0101]      FIG. 37  shows different evaporator layouts. 
           [0102]      FIG. 38  shows facing joints for mounting condensers and evaporators. 
           [0103]      FIG. 39  is a cross-sectional view showing the fixing frame joints. 
           [0104]      FIG. 40  shows a flexible monoblock refrigeration circuit with a fixing frame. 
           [0105]      FIG. 41  shows a schematic top view of a flexible monoblock refrigeration circuit. 
           [0106]      FIG. 42  shows an outside cover and an inside guard cover for a transport refrigeration system. 
           [0107]      FIG. 43  shows the refrigeration system of  FIG. 47  removed through the front wall of the container after removing the outside shell cover and leaving the inside guard cover within the box. 
           [0108]      FIG. 44  shows some variations of removable units and covers. 
           [0109]      FIG. 45  illustrates several outside shell covers. 
           [0110]      FIG. 46  shows removal of the shell covers and the refrigeration units. 
           [0111]      FIG. 47  shows a flexible monoblock with mounted system with custom made outside shell covers. 
           [0112]      FIG. 48  shows a standby compressor driver configurations and options. 
           [0113]      FIG. 49  shows a front view of a footprint for refrigeration units. 
           [0114]      FIG. 50  is a schematic top view of an alternate transport refrigeration system. 
           [0115]      FIGS. 51A , B, and C are schematic views of electric, hydraulic and shaft drivers. 
           [0116]      FIG. 52  is a top view of an evaporator module with blower fan mountings for removal from top or bottom blower fans that are motorized impeller types. 
           [0117]      FIG. 53  is a side view of an evaporation module. 
           [0118]      FIG. 54  schematically shows the modules before they are assembled. 
           [0119]      FIG. 55  shows a flexible refrigeration tubing harness. 
           [0120]      FIG. 56  shows side views of steps in module assemblies and in the application of the fluid tube flexible unit to the modules. 
           [0121]      FIG. 57  shows refrigeration components mounted on the modules before they are connected. 
           [0122]      FIG. 58  shows a preliminary connection of the modules shown in  FIG. 57 . 
           [0123]      FIG. 59  is an enlarged view of the twistable tube connection shown in  FIG. 55 . 
           [0124]      FIG. 60  shows the modules interconnected by the twistable tube connection for flexible installation and repositioning of modules. 
           [0125]      FIG. 61  shows mounting sides prior to attachment to the modules. 
           [0126]      FIG. 62  shows mounting sides connected to the modules as frames for connecting the modules to the container or other conditioned space. 
           [0127]      FIG. 63  shows the assembled side frames connected to the container front wall for mounting the self-contained refrigeration unit in the container. 
           [0128]      FIG. 64  shows the external cover connected to the front wall of the container and covering the compressor and subassembly module and the evaporator module and evaporator module lid-mounted fan. 
           [0129]      FIGS. 65-68  show side mounting frames for mounting the modules in different positional relationships of modules in a flexible transport refrigeration system. 
           [0130]      FIGS. 69 and 70  show liftable compressor and evaporator modules for providing access to an engine beneath a tilting cab. 
           [0131]      FIGS. 71-73  show twistable tube connections between the compressor module and other modules. 
           [0132]      FIGS. 74 and 75  show twistable tube connections to the condenser module. 
           [0133]      FIG. 76  is an exploded view of the compressor, drive motor and magnetic coupling. 
           [0134]      FIG. 77  is an assembled view of the compressor hermetically sealed magnetic drive attached to the compressor and the complemental magnetic drive attached to the motor. 
           [0135]      FIG. 78  is a schematic representation of the drives, drive connections and conditioned space containers showing cover, drain, fan, drive and control options. 
           [0136]      FIG. 79  is a schematic representation of a universally driven transport refrigeration system with magnetic drives for a hermetic magnetic coupler on a compressor. 
           [0137]      FIG. 80  is a schematic representation of a refrigeration unit supply and replacement system. 
           [0138]      FIG. 81  is a schematic representation of a leasing system for refrigeration. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0139]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , the chart schematically represents the new comprehensive transport refrigeration system. The new refrigeration system is compact, self-contained, removable, modular and flexible. The new refrigeration system has short refrigerant lines. The tubes connecting the refrigeration elements are rearrangable so that the flexible modular units may be mounted on vertical, horizontal, sloping or curved surfaces of vehicles. The new refrigeration system has a variable capacity with a full temperature range. The refrigeration system is universally driven. The modular units and drives are self-regulating, so that desired temperatures are maintained in the refrigerated volumes, consuming the minimum energy possible. The entire refrigeration system may be easily removed and replaced instead of repaired in the transport. Savings result in reduction of driver and truck down time and in contents safety without transferring the load. Removal and replacement is accomplished without skilled refrigeration mechanics. 
         [0140]      FIG. 2  shows advantages of the new invention, which is compact, self-contained, removable and modular with each module using the same footprint. 
         [0141]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , the new refrigeration system  1  is flexible. It can be mounted at any position on the cargo box or container, and a limited number of units with the same footprint can be used to provide variable capacity and a full range of temperatures. 
         [0142]      FIG. 4  shows that the new comprehensive transport refrigeration system  1  has refrigeration units that can be electrically driven  3  with either DC or AC current. The system can be mechanically driven  5  with either direct drive or flexible shafts. In a direct drive mode the compressor is driven directly by the vehicle&#39;s engine in a flexible shaft mode, and the compressor is mounted within the monoblock refrigeration unit and driven through the compressor universal driver joint by the flexible shaft. 
         [0143]    The refrigeration system may be driven with a hydraulic system  7 , which preferably includes a hydraulic motor quick-coupled to a compressor, a proportional flow regulator controlling the motor, and a PTO-driven variable displacement pump supplying the regulator. Each of the new modular refrigeration units may be self-powered  9  with a dedicated power source, with or without an auxiliary standby power source. Preferably a quick disconnect coupling is provided between the driver and the compressor universal driver joint to isolate the refrigeration system from its driver. 
         [0144]      FIG. 5  shows that the new transport refrigeration modular units are suitable for all truck sizes and may be made with different modules  11 ,  13  and  15 . 
         [0145]      FIG. 6  is a chart showing elements of the new comprehensive transport refrigeration system in which variable output transport refrigeration systems have flexible transport refrigeration housings and are universally compatible with all transport refrigeration drivers. 
         [0146]    As shown in  FIG. 7 , the variability and variable outputs of the new transport refrigeration system provide variable capacity and variable temperature management.  FIG. 7  also shows that the flexible transport refrigeration housings may include flexible split transport refrigeration housings, flexible monoblock refrigeration housings and flexible modular transport refrigeration housings. 
         [0147]    The universal capability of the new transport refrigeration system is able to use all drives and is fully compatible with all power sources. 
         [0148]      FIG. 8  is a chart of the variables that are provided for by the new refrigeration system. Refrigeration capacity is suitable for the container volume of mini and small trucks, medium and large trucks, and trailers. Temperatures of the containers may be controlled at about 35° F. for fresh products, about 0° F. for frozen products, or about −20° F. for deep frozen products. 
         [0149]    Optional heat may be provided by the system, for example when shipping fresh produce in freezing climates. 
         [0150]    The new system has varied housing configuration and unit mounting locations using refrigeration modules in split and monoblock assemblies in front mount, rooftop mount or under mount configurations. Refrigeration units may be arranged for single compartment or multiple compartment containers. 
         [0151]    The new system is usable as a vehicle-powered system or as a self-powered system, with or without optional standby power sources. The new system has options of drives which include mechanical direct drives or flexible shaft drives, hydraulic fixed displacement pump drives, variable displacement pump drives, or electric drives which vary from approximately 12 to 24 or 48 volts DC, and from approximately 115 to 213 volts single phase AC, and approximately 230 to 400 volts three-phase AC. For example, standby power sources may include fixed AC sources for AC motor drives, or AC transformers and rectifiers providing power to drive DC motors, and AC motors for providing power to drive flexible shafts or fixed displacement hydraulic pumps. 
         [0152]    In  FIGS. 9-17  a container is generally referred to by the numeral  16  and a front opening is generally referred to by  17 . Inner covers  18  and outer covers  19  are part of the container body and have varied configurations, as shown in  FIGS. 9A , B and C. 
         [0153]    Rigid monoblock refrigeration units  20  have refrigerant lines  20   a  and  20   b  connecting condenser modules  21 , compressor modules  22 , joint fixing modules  23 , and evaporator modules  24 . The same units  20  fit in different external covers  19 . Condenser coil  21   a  is at an angle and exhaust fans  21   b  are mounted on the cover. 
         [0154]    Internal cover-mounted exhaust fans  18   a  draw recirculated container air through intake  18   b  and across the evaporator coil  24   a  and propel the chilled air across tops of cargo in container  16 . 
         [0155]    As shown in  FIG. 10 , a different rigid monoblock unit  25  has similar modules, but has the compressor module  22  below the condenser module. The same units  22  or  25  may be constructed from flexible monoblock refrigeration units shown in  FIGS. 11-17 . 
         [0156]      FIGS. 11 and 12  show roof-mounted flexible monoblock units  25 . The condenser module  21  an compressor module  22  are mounted on top of the roof  16   a  in  FIG. 11 . An external cover  19   a  has exhaust fans  19   b  which draw air from intake  19   c  through the condenser coil  21   a . The joint fixing module  23  is mounted inside the roof with the evaporator module  24  inside cover  18   c.    
         [0157]    In  FIG. 12  lifting roof-mounted insulated cover  16   c  provides access to the elongated internal cover  18   d , which holds a rigid or flexible monoblock refrigeration unit  20  or  25 . Exhaust fan  16   d  is mounted in the roof cover  16   c  to draw air through the condenser coil  21   a.    
         [0158]      FIGS. 13A , B, C and D show several possible arrangements of a single flexible monoblock refrigeration unit  25  with the modules turned to different relative positions for wall and front mounting of the compressor module  22  and roof and roof access interior mount of the refrigeration unit  21 . 
         [0159]      FIGS. 14A-C  through  17 A-C show different configurations of the same units. 
         [0160]      FIGS. 14A-C  show identical configurations of the rigid or flexible monoblock refrigeration units  20  or  25  to precisely fit in different external covers  19  on container bodies  16 . 
         [0161]      FIGS. 15A-15C  show different positions of the external cover-mounted condenser exhaust fans  21   b  and the condenser coils  21   a  in a flexible self-contained monoblock refrigeration unit  25 . In  FIG. 15A  the fan  21   b  is mounted on a removable lid of condenser module  21  or on the angled top of the cover  19 . The condenser coil  21   a  is mounted vertically in the front air inlet in the cover. In  FIG. 15B , the exhaust fan  21   b  is in a horizontal position in the top of cover  19 . In  FIG. 15C , the evaporator coil is positioned at an angle between the cover intake and the fan. 
         [0162]      FIGS. 16A-C  show roof mounts with varied positions of the cover-mounted exhaust fan  19   d  and the evaporator coil  21   a.    
         [0163]      FIGS. 17A-C  show several internal refrigeration unit mounts with different positions of the roof cover-mounted exhaust fans  17   d  and the evaporator coil  21   a  in relation to the screened intake opening  17  and the roof exhaust. 
         [0164]      FIG. 18  shows varied configurations of the condenser modules  36 , the evaporator modules  38  and the fixing joints  37  for the modules. The split configuration  40  has the condenser module  36  mounted outside on the front wall  41  of a container  43  and the evaporator module  38  mounted inside beneath the roof  42  of the container  43 . Flexible hoses  44  connect the condenser and evaporator modules  36 ,  38 . 
         [0165]    The rigid monoblock configuration  45  has the condenser module  36  mounted on a fixing joint  37  in the front wall  41  of container  43  and the evaporator module  38  mounted on the fixing joint  37  and extending inward beneath the roof  42  of the container  43 . The fixing joint  37  and rigid tubing  46  connects the condenser module  36  and the evaporator module  38 . The evaporator module is mounted on a mounting ring  47  of the fixing joint  37  so that the entire evaporator module  38  may be withdrawn with the mounting ring  47  through the opening in the front wall  41 . 
         [0166]    The liftable monoblock configuration  50  has the evaporator  38  mounted on the mounting ring  47  of the fixing joint  37 , and has a rigid tube  46  extending through an insulating wall in the fixing joint. The rigid tube is joined to flexible tube joints  48  on swinging tubes  49 . The condenser module  36  is guided by the tracks  51  of the parallel guide plates  52 , and the parallel guide plates  52  are mounted on the front of the fixing joint  37 . The entire refrigeration assembly may be removed from the truck with the evaporator module withdrawn through the opening in the front wall  41  for replacement. 
         [0167]    The flexible monoblock mounting  55  has the condenser module  36  mounted on the mounting ring  47  and the fixing joint  37 . The refrigerant lines to evaporator module  38  are connected for the condenser module  36  through an insulating wall in the mounting ring  47  of the fixing joint  37 . Flexible tube joints  48  and tubes  49  allow the condenser module  36  to be mounted in several positions. 
         [0168]    As shown in  FIG. 19A , the split configuration  40  allows a front mount  58  or a roof mount  59  of the condenser module  36 . 
         [0169]      FIG. 19B  has schematic representations of combinations and configurations of split module arrangements showing how five different condenser modules A 1 , A 2 , B 1 , B 2 , B 3  can be combined with six different evaporator modules A 1 , A 2 , B 1 , B 2 , B 3 , B 4  to provide twelve arrangements of split configurations with differing refrigeration capacities. Modules in split configurations are connected with flexible refrigerant hoses. 
         [0170]    The rigid monoblock configuration shown in  FIG. 20  shows the condenser module  36  mounted on the front of the mounting ring  47  and on the fixing joint  37 . The evaporator module  38  is rigidly mounted on the inner end of the mounting frame  47  of the fixing joint  37 . The extended portion of the fixing joint allows the rigid monoblock configuration  45  to be mounted on a front wall  41  of various thicknesses. The fixing joint  37  has an insulated front wall  61 , which is horizontally split  62  into upper  63  and lower  64  sections with mated opposed semi-cylindrical openings forming cylindrical openings to allow the passing of the connecting tubes. The inward extension  65  of the mounting ring  47  is useful in allowing mounting in various front wall thicknesses  41 . 
         [0171]      FIG. 21  shows the liftable monoblock configuration  50  with the condenser module  36  raised to permit truck engine access by cab tipping. The evaporator unit  38  is attached to the inner extension  65  of the mounting ring  47 . The swing tube  49  turns on flexible joints  48  to allow lifting of the condenser module  36  along the guide tracks  51  of the parallel guide plates  52 . 
         [0172]    As shown in  FIGS. 18 through 21 , the condenser module  36  includes a condenser fan  71 , a condenser coil  72 , a compressor  73 , and connection tube  74  between the compressor  73  and coil  72 . Another tube leads from the condenser coil to a flexible joint. The evaporator module  38  includes fans  75  and an evaporator coil  76 . The fans draw air within the container upward and drive the air through the evaporator coil  76  and outward into the body of the container  43  along the roof  42 . 
         [0173]      FIG. 22  shows the liftable monoblock configuration mechanism  81 . Swinging arms  82  and guides  83  move along the tracks  51  when the condenser module housing  84  moves along the parallel guide plates  52 . The condenser module housing  84  has pins  83  which move in the guide tracks  51 , and the swinging arm  82  is connected with bolts  84  and nuts  85  to the guide plates  52 . The liftable condenser housing  84  may be unlatched and manually lifted between detent points that hold the condenser module  36  in the raised and lowered positions. Air cylinders or springs may assist the lifting. The lifting may be electrically operated, such as with a jack screw or hydraulically operated with rams and cylinders. 
         [0174]      FIG. 23  shows the need for the raising the condenser module  36  to tip a cab C for engine access. 
         [0175]      FIG. 24  shows the flexible monoblock configuration  55  in which the condenser module  36  has flexible joints  48  for allowing mounting of the condenser module  36  in varied positions. 
         [0176]    Shown in  FIG. 25  are varied relative mounting positions of the condenser module and evaporator module  38  in the flexible monoblock assembly configurations. The first configuration shows the same configuration as the flexible monoblock configuration  55  for nose mounts N shown in  FIG. 24 . The second nose mount N configuration in  FIG. 25  shows elements of the condenser module  36  rearranged, with the condenser coil  72  in the front. 
         [0177]    The front mount configurations F are the same as the liftable monoblock  50  and flexible monoblock  55  configurations. An undermount configuration U shows the condenser unit  36  mounted under the container and the evaporator unit  38  mounted along the front wall of the container. A rooftop mount R shows the evaporator unit  38  mounted on a varied form of the mounting ring  47  with a varied form of the insulating wall  130  of the joint  37  and the condenser unit  36  mounted on top of the joint  37  that attaches to the roof wall of the container. The cover  90  is shown on top of the condenser unit  36 . In all of these monoblock configurations, the condenser fan  71  is an exhaust fan, drawing in air through a forward opening over the coil  72  and exhausting air by fan  71 . 
         [0178]    A wall-mounted evaporator  38  with a roof-mounted condenser  36  is shown in the configuration W. 
         [0179]      FIG. 26  shows flexible monoblock configurations in which the refrigeration elements of the condenser coil  72 , the compressor  73  and the evaporator coil  76  are connected by rigid tubing sections  49  and flexible couplings  48 . The first configuration shows a configuration  55  similar to that shown in  FIG. 24 . The second configuration is similar to the second N configuration shown in  FIG. 25 . The third configuration shows a wall mount configuration  55  shown in the bottom of  FIG. 18 . The fourth configuration shows a roof mount configuration R shown in the center of the bottom of  FIG. 25 . The fifth configuration shows a roof and front wall mount, such as shown in the lower right of  FIG. 25 . The sixth configuration shows a roof mount in which the evaporator is mounted slightly behind the compressor  73 . The seventh configuration shows the undermount configuration shown at the lower left of  FIG. 25 . The eighth configuration shows a modified undermount configuration with a changed position of the condenser coil  72  and condenser exhaust fan  71 . The ninth configuration shows the liftable monoblock configuration  50  and the relationship of the flexible connectors  48  and rigid tubes  49 . 
         [0180]      FIG. 27  shows varied flexible monoblock layouts that are related to the configurations of like numbers in  FIG. 26 . 
         [0181]      FIG. 28  schematically shows the condenser module and evaporator module assemblies  36  and  38  in both plan views and side elevations, with the fixing joint module  37  between the condenser module and the evaporator module. The condenser module housing  84  has a universal refrigeration base tray  91  on which are mounted all refrigeration miscellaneous parts, filter driers, accumulators, pressure and flow regulators, etc. and a compressor and driver isolated plate  92 . 
         [0182]    The fan assembly lids  93  mount one, two or several exhaust fans  71 . Condenser coil  72  is mounted in the condenser housing  84 . The evaporator module housing  94  has an evaporator chassis lid  95  on which are mounted for one, two or several intake fans  75  to circulate container air through the evaporator coil  76 . Mounting holes  96  are provided on the rear edge of the condenser module housing  84  and the front edge of the evaporator housing module  94  to connect the modules to the fixing joint  37 . 
         [0183]    As shown in  FIG. 29 , the compressor and drive isolated plate  92  mounts a fixed displacement or variable displacement compressor  73  which has a compressor universal driver joint  97  with a quick disconnect coupling  220 . The condenser module  36 , the modules fixing joint  37  and the evaporator module  38  comprise the refrigeration unit  1 . The compressor universal driver joint  97  with the quick disconnect coupling  220  may be connected to a flexible shaft  98 , an electric motor  99  or a hydraulic motor  100  with hydraulic lines  101 . 
         [0184]    As shown in  FIG. 30 , the refrigeration system  1  is mounted in a flexible refrigeration housing  102  and has a quick disconnect coupling  220  to a driver  103 . The driver  103  may have a main power supply  104  or an optional power supply  105 , either of which may be mechanical, hydraulic or electric. For example, the main power supply  104  may be a truck engine-driven main AC generator, and the optional power supply  105  may be a fixed AC power source or a stand-alone engine driving a secondary AC generator. 
         [0185]      FIG. 31  shows a modular multi-partition system which has three refrigeration systems  1  mounted in flexible refrigeration housings  102  connected by quick disconnect couplings  220  to drivers  103 , which may have a main power supply  104  and an optional power supply  105 . 
         [0186]    As shown in  FIG. 32 , the conditioner modules have lids  106 , and the exhaust fans  71  are attached to the lids and not to the chassis of the condenser modules  36 . That is applicable in all modifications of the condenser modules, as shown in  FIGS. 32 and 33 . 
         [0187]    Referring to  FIG. 34 , the evaporator modules  38  have a main chassis with many lid options. A wall-mounted version of the evaporator  38  has an evaporator fan  75  mounted in a lid  108 . In roof-mounted or joint ring-mounted evaporators  38 , a solid evaporator lid  110  is liftable to provide access to a fan-mounting base  111  on which one, two or several evaporator fans  75  are mounted. 
         [0188]    In a wall-mounted evaporator module, a blank lid  112  covers an opening of the evaporator so that the coil  76  chills air drawn through the side or bottom of the evaporator housing  113 , and so that chilled air is exhausted by fan  75  in the lid  108  for the wall mount. 
         [0189]    In the roof mount or joint ring mount, a lid  114  with round inlet openings  115  is provided to allow air to be drawn in by the intake fans  75  mounted on the fan mounting base  111  and blown through coil  76  through opening  116 . 
         [0190]    In an alternate lid  118 , the lid is provided with a grill  119  to replace the one, two or more round air inlet rings  115 . 
         [0191]      FIG. 35  shows access through the lid  110  and fan mounting base  111  to the evaporator fans  75  in the evaporator housing  113 . That is the preferred form when the entire evaporator housing  113  may be pulled outward with the mounting ring of the modules joint  37  for replacement. 
         [0192]    When inside access is provided within a container, the preferred access to the fans is by dropping the lower lid  114  or  118  and then unbolting the fan mounting base  111  from the evaporator chassis in the housing  113 . 
         [0193]      FIG. 36  shows evaporator layouts for several configurations. In the configurations shown in  FIG. 36 , the returned air  202  within the container  43  is drawn upward through the fans  75  and driven outward through the evaporator  76  along the roof  42  of the container, so that the cold air circulates through the contents of the container. 
         [0194]    As shown in  FIG. 37 , the wall-mounted evaporator layouts draw returned air  202  laterally into the evaporator housing  113  and exhaust chilled air  203  with the reversed evaporator fan  75 , or in the undermount evaporator layouts with a blower  121  along the roof  42 . 
         [0195]      FIGS. 38 and 39  show the fixing joint  37  for joining the condenser module and evaporator module. The fixing joint  37  has a frame  123  with forward flanges  125  mounting welded bolts  124  for receiving nuts to attach the condenser module. The frame  123  is welded or bolted inside the opening  126  in the front wall  41  of container  43 . 
         [0196]    A hollow rectangular fixing ring  128  is slidable through the fixing frame  123 . The condenser module is mounted on the front of the fixing ring  128 , and the evaporator module is mounted on the back of the fixing ring  128 . The condenser module is also mounted with bolts and nuts on the front flange  125  of the fixing frame. Disconnecting the bolts and nuts allows the fixing ring  128  and the evaporator  38  to be withdrawn through the fixing frame  123  so that the entire refrigeration assembly may be removed and replaced for returning the truck to the road without endangering its contents or taking time for repairs. An insulating wall  130  is mounted in the fixing ring  128  between the condenser module  36  and the evaporator module  38 . The insulating wall  130  has a parting line  129  dividing the insulating wall into a major upper section and a lower section  132 . Tube openings  133  extend through the insulating wall  130  at the parting line  129 . The lower block  132  may be separated from the main portion of the insulating wall  130  to install or expose the through wall lines. 
         [0197]    As shown in  FIG. 39 , the fixing frame  123  is secured to the front wall  41  of the container  43  by welding or screwing  135  the fixing frame  123  to the container wall  41 . The fixing ring  128  to which the condenser module  36  and evaporator module  38  are fixed is slidable through the fixing frame  123  once the nuts  137  have been removed from the welded screw studs  124  in the front flange  125  of the fixing frame  123 . Removing the nuts  137  allows the condenser module  36 , the fixing ring  128  and the evaporator module  38  to be withdrawn through the fixing frame  123 . 
         [0198]      FIG. 40  is a schematic representation of the elements of a flexible monoblock refrigeration circuit. The compressor  73  is mounted on a compressor and drive isolated plate  92  on a universal refrigeration base tray  91 . The compressor is connected to the condenser coil  72  and the evaporator coil  76  with tube lines  49  and flexible joints  48 . The tube lines pass through the insulating wall  130  in fixing ring  128 , which slides through fixing frame  123 . 
         [0199]      FIG. 41  shows a flexible monoblock refrigeration circuit. An evaporator coil  76 , evaporator fans  75  and a housing  113  are parts of the evaporator module  38 . The condenser module  36  has condenser fans  71 , a condenser coil  72  and a compressor mounted on a compressor and driver isolated plate  92  on a universal refrigeration-based tray  91 . Rigid tube sections  140  pass through the insulation wall  130  and have flexible joints  48  at opposite ends. A series of flexible joints  48  and connecting tubes  49  provide a low pressure return line  142  from the evaporator coil, and a high pressure line  143  from the compressor to the condenser coil  72 , and liquid lines  144  and  145  from the condenser coil to the evaporator coil. A defrost high pressure line  146  connects the compressor with the evaporator coil  76 . 
         [0200]    In preferred embodiments such as shown in  FIGS. 43-46 , covers  180  are provided for the refrigeration system. An outside cover  182  has opening grills in the forward and lower sides  183  for admitting air, and an opening grill  184  in the top for outward flowing of hot exhaust air from exhaust fan  71 . Flanges  185  on the outer cover provide a mounting attachment to the condenser housing  186 . An inside guard cover  187  has grill openings  188  and  189  for providing air flow through the intake fans  75  and evaporator coil  76 . The inside cover  187  has flanges  190  for securing the inside cover to the roof  42  and front wall  41  of the container  43 . The inside cover construction prevents its removal from outside of the container  43 . That prohibits access to the contents of the container while the refrigeration unit is removed. When the entire refrigeration system is removed, the outside shell cover  182  is first removed, and the nuts securing the condenser section  36  on the joint section  37  are removed, which allows the entire refrigeration assembly  1  to be withdrawn through the opening in the front wall of the container. The outside shell cover  182  is preferably coordinated with the color of the container  43  and remains a part of the container, while the refrigeration systems  1  may be exchanged to put the truck and refrigeration back in service immediately. 
         [0201]      FIG. 44  illustrates some plug and play configurations with condenser covers and refrigeration units, which may be removed forwardly or raised or lowered while leaving the inner evaporator cover in place to prevent access to the container cargo. 
         [0202]      FIG. 45  shows single unit front covers  182  for placement on a single refrigeration system  1  on the front wall  41  of a container  43 , and wide covers  191  for use on multiple refrigeration systems  1  on partitioned containers. 
         [0203]      FIG. 46  shows covers  182  and  191  and refrigeration systems  1  removed from the containers. 
         [0204]      FIG. 47  shows custom made covers for containers such as containers in delivery vans. The inside guard cover  187  is attached to container box insulation ceiling  242  inside the roof, and the outside shell cover  193  is attached outside of the roof  243  or to the condenser module housing. The fixing frame  123  is connected to the container box insulation ceiling  242 . The evaporator module  38  is connected to a fixing ring within the fixing frame and to the fixing joint  37 . The condenser module  36  is mounted outside of the fixing frame. Removing the outside shell cover  193  provides access to remove the nuts from the fixing frame so that the entire refrigeration unit  1  may be lifted, withdrawn and replaced, leaving the inside guard cover  187  in place. 
         [0205]    The preferred plug and play units are self-contained and have an electric control unit (ECU) mounted on the condenser module. Temperature sensors on the evaporator return air and on the condenser air intake are wired to the ECU. A pressure differential sensor mounted on both sides of the evaporator coil senses the need for defrosting and is wired to the ECU. The ECU has a selector for selecting precise temperature in the container or for selecting a range of fresh, frozen or deep frozen temperatures for the container. 
         [0206]    In preferred systems, an operator&#39;s control with a display and selectors is mounted in a cab and cargo door, and open/close sensors and remote temperature sensors are mounted in the container. The operator&#39;s controls and the additional sensors are connected to the ECU. 
         [0207]    When replacing refrigeration units with the operator&#39;s controls and additional sensors, after removing the condenser module cover, connectors with wires to the operator&#39;s controls and additional container sensors are disconnected from the ECU prior to removing the refrigeration unit. 
         [0208]    After a replacement refrigeration unit is installed, the connectors are connected to the ECU of the replacement unit before remounting the condenser cover. 
         [0209]    Blowers and fans for circulating air through evaporator and condenser coils are preferably high volume fans or blowers coupled to low draw electric motors. The motors have wires with interconnectors in the condenser modules, and a power supply cable runs from the truck&#39;s power supply to the interconnectors. When replacing a refrigeration unit, after removing the condenser module cover the electric power interconnectors are disconnected before the unit is removed. After installing a new unit, the interconnectors are coupled before the condenser cover is replaced. 
         [0210]    In preferred systems, the control and sensor lines are mounted in one connector, and the electric motor lines are mounted in another connector. All may be mounted in one connector. 
         [0211]    Preferably a line parallel to the control line from the cab supplies low voltage power to the ECU. 
         [0212]    Alternatively the ECU is powered with a self-contained battery or from a small step-down transformer and converter mounted with the ECU in the condenser module. 
         [0213]    When the refrigeration unit is operated by auxiliary power, for example while a truck is stopped for a short time, sensors and fans are operated with the truck&#39;s stored electric power. 
         [0214]    For longer stops, the auxiliary power unit also has electrical power supplies that may be connected to the electrical power line from the truck to the refrigeration unit. A switch transfers the source of electrical power from the truck&#39;s system to the auxiliary power supply. 
         [0215]      FIG. 48  schematically shows standby options for vehicle-powered and self-powered refrigeration systems in the first and second columns respectively. 
         [0216]    In the first row of trucks  250 ,  251  the refrigeration systems are electrically powered. A switch box  255  connects the refrigeration unit  253  to an engine battery  257  or to an AC/DC converter  259  connected to an electrical outlet plug  258 . A dedicated engine  260  is mounted beneath the truck  251  to drive an alternator  261  connected to switch box  255 . 
         [0217]    In the second row the refrigeration systems  263  are AC powered. Switch box  255  connects the refrigeration system to an AC generator  265  on the truck or to an electrical outlet plug  258 . A dedicated engine  260  drives an AC generator  267 , which is connected to switch  255 . 
         [0218]    In the third row of trucks  270 ,  271 , a flexible shaft  274  drives the refrigeration system  273 . The shaft is connected to a splitter  275 . Splitter  275  is driven by a flexible shaft  276  from the PTO  277  or by a flexible shaft  278  from an electric motor  279  powered from an electrical outlet plug  258 . 
         [0219]    In the bottom row of trucks  280 ,  281 , hydraulic motors drive a refrigeration system  283 . Hydraulic lines  284  are connected to T-box  285 . Hydraulic lines  286  are connected to a pump  287  on the PTO  277 . Hydraulic lines  268  from T-box  285  are connected to a pump  269 , which is powered by an electric motor  279  powered from plug  258 . 
         [0220]    In the self-powered truck  281 , dedicated engine  260  drives pump  290 , which supplies hydraulic fluid through lines  292 . Lines  292 ,  268  and  284  have directional check valves. 
         [0221]    The systems of the present invention can be retrofitted to current refrigeration systems on trucks. Preferably the hydraulic drives replace dedicated engines in existing systems and provide savings in expense, weight and operating costs. 
         [0222]      FIG. 49  shows a rear wall  521  of a bus  520 , with an air conditioning unit  525  mounted on the curved roof  527 . As shown in the drawings, the air conditioning system  525  has Type B condenser modules  495  mounted between Type B evaporator modules  493 . 
         [0223]    The multiple range modular system has cooling, freezing and deep freezing capacities, and includes heating only. 
         [0224]    A universal cab control and monitor supervises a universal programmable electronic control unit in the modulator. 
         [0225]    The compressor or compressors are driven by quick-coupled motors, which may be quickly removed from the refrigeration unit to isolate the motor from the refrigeration system. Preferably the fans are mounted on the container cover. The module-mounted fans are driven by electric motors with quick disconnects, which may be quickly removed from the refrigeration system by removing lids of the evaporator and/or condenser modules. Thus, the refrigeration system and the modules are quickly isolated so that the existing refrigeration system may be removed from the vehicle, and a new refrigeration system may be placed on the vehicle without need for supplemental cooling of the enclosure while the refrigeration system is being repaired. Electric motors may be disconnected from the refrigeration system. The refrigeration system may be removed and replaced, and the motors may be reconnected to the compressor and fan within thirty minutes. 
         [0226]    A flexible refrigeration unit housing attaches an evaporator module with defrost and vent doors to a twistable condenser module and twistable fan modules. Variable module fan housings provide controllable air volume and air speed modulation. The modules may be wall-mounted, rooftop-mounted or underbody-mounted. A liftable condenser module permits outward sliding and lifting of the complete refrigeration system away from a space between a cab and a box when necessary. The modules are connected to universal fixing frames on the boxes, trailers, containers, buses or cabs or other specialty vehicles to be cooled. Collars are provided to mount the refrigeration systems half in and half out of the cooled enclosure, fully out of the enclosure or positions in between. Twistable refrigerant lines and joints allow relative moving, repositioning and reorienting of the modules to match requirements for wall mounting, rooftop mounting or underbody mounting. The compressor drive mount is turnable to provide vertical compressor operation in all positions. 
         [0227]    In preferred embodiments, inside covers with doors and air filters are provided in the enclosures, and outside covers are provided on the enclosures, and the modules fit between the covers. 
         [0228]    Internal or external ducting is providing to maintain uniform temperatures or varied temperatures in the enclosure, or to boost ventilation. LED status displays on outside surfaces of the enclosure, for example on outside surfaces of the outer cover, display status of the refrigeration system, such as operating in range, out of range or failure. The invention provides compact, self-contained, removable modular flexible universal transport temperature control hydraulically driven refrigeration units. 
         [0229]    Apparatus temperature management is provided by the modular hydrostatic transport refrigeration system, which is driven by a hydraulic pump and motor or motors. 
         [0230]    An alternator drives a modular electric transport refrigeration system. A modular hydroelectric transport refrigeration system is driven by a variable displacement hydraulic pump supplying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic motor that drives the compressor. An alternator is connected to the hydraulic pump or to the hydraulic pump to operate fans for the evaporator and the condenser modules. Modular hydrostatic refrigeration retrofit kits are provided to conform existing vehicles to the system. The new unit has a small configuration for space, weight and access economies. The invention provides a self-contained complete refrigeration circuit and components mounted in one housing, a mono-block or mono-chassis. 
         [0231]    The new system is a removable unit. Its quick and easy fitting capacity provides a plug-and-play concept. The units are modular and are constructed in standard measurements having the same surface footprint. The units are flexible and have plural mounting combination capability with multiple capacity configuration capability. A few models cover all application ranges. 
         [0232]    The transport refrigeration unit has mobile capability and is useful on cars, trucks, trailers, containers, buses, machinery, trains, boats and other vehicles. Temperature control is provided by unit multiple temperature management capability, with complete temperature ranges from cooling to heating. Each unit is a single self-contained device. The new refrigeration system is compact, self-contained, removable and modular. 
         [0233]    The new invention provides a modular, hydraulically driven refrigeration system driven by an open-type variable displacement hydraulic circuit. 
         [0234]    The invention also provides a modular electrically driven refrigeration system driven either by an AC alternator or a DC alternator. 
         [0235]    A cargo container, for example, may have three or more separate areas requiring different amounts of refrigeration. Three separate units would be mounted on the front of the container. Each unit is powered by a hydraulic motor driving a compressor and electric motors or hydraulic motors driving evaporator and condenser fans. A single hydraulic pump supplies the three hydraulic motors. Each unit is set to a different temperature requirement of the particular partitioned section of the container. 
         [0236]      FIG. 50  is a schematic top view of an alternate transport refrigeration system. A condenser assembly  601  is connected to a liquid line control assembly  602  and a gas line control assembly  603 . The gas line control assembly  603  is then connected to a compressor assembly  604 . The liquid line control assembly  602  is connected a filter dryer  614  and then to an evaporator control assembly  605  in an evaporation module. The evaporation module also includes an evaporation assembly  606 , a drain pan heater coil assembly  607 , an evaporator fan assembly  608 , a return air temperature sensor  611 , a discharge air temperature sensor  612 , and drain line resistors  613 . A condenser module also contains a condenser fan assembly  609  and an E.C.V. assembly  610 . 
         [0237]      FIGS. 51A , B and C are schematic views of electric, hydraulic and shaft drivers. 
         [0238]      FIG. 52  is a top view of an evaporator module with blower fan mountings for removal from top or bottom blower fans that are motorized impeller types. 
         [0239]      FIG. 53  is a side view of an evaporation module. 
         [0240]      FIG. 54  schematically show modules before they are connected. Compressor module  701  is fixedly attached to subassembly module  703  and evaporator module  705  is fixedly attached to joint module  707 . The condenser module  709  is not fixed to any other module in the flexible configuration. 
         [0241]      FIG. 55  shows a fluid line harness  711  used when the condenser module  709  is flexibly attached to the compressor and subassembly modules  701  and  703 , and when the compressor and subassembly modules are flexibly attached to the joint module  707 . 
         [0242]      FIG. 56  shows side views of the modules before they are attached after the compressor and subassembly modules are attached and after the evaporator and fixing joint modules are attached, and after the compressor module  701  is juxtaposed with the joint fixing module  707 . Finally  FIG. 56  shows the fluid line harness  711 . 
         [0243]      FIGS. 57 and 58  show the refrigeration components connected to the modules  701 ,  703 ,  705  and  709  before the modules are interconnected and after the modules are interconnected. 
         [0244]      FIG. 59  is a top view of the refrigeration harness  711  for flexibly connecting the refrigerant fluid lines between the modules. The condenser module is placed in the space  713 , and the compressor and connected subassembly modules are placed in space  715 . Connector  717  connects the refrigeration inlet line to a connector on the joint module for flow to the evaporator module. Connector  719  connects the vapor return line to a connector on the joint module for returning vapor from the evaporator. 
         [0245]      FIG. 60  is a top view of the assembled elements. Compressor  721  is driven by motor  723  coupled to the compressor through a magnetic coupling  725 . A condenser coil  727  is mounted in the condenser module  709 . Condenser fan  729  is mounted on a lid on the condenser. Evaporator coil  731  is mounted on the evaporator module  705  and evaporator fans  733  are mounted on an evaporator module lid. The fluid line harness  711  is shown connected to the modules. 
         [0246]      FIG. 61  shows sides  741  ready to attach to the modules. Cover  737  is a cover attached to the truck which has an opening  739  aligned with the condenser fan  729  when the cover is assembled on the truck. 
         [0247]      FIG. 62  shows the sides  741  mounted on the modules of the refrigeration unit  700 . 
         [0248]      FIG. 63  shows the refrigeration unit  700  mounted in the front wall  702  of a container with the sides  741  attached to a fixed frame around the opening  17  in the front wall to hold the entire refrigeration unit  700  in the front wall. 
         [0249]      FIG. 64  shows the cover  737  reattached to the front wall  702  of the truck trailer container. 
         [0250]      FIGS. 65-68  shows various forms of side attachments  743 ,  745 ,  747  and  749  which are used in different configurations of the flexibly connected modules of the refrigeration units  700  to hold the refrigeration units attached to the containers in different relative positions of the modules within the refrigeration units. 
         [0251]      FIGS. 69 and 70  show sides  751  with actuators  753  and guide grooves  755  for raising compressor and condenser modules so that a truck cab  757  may be tilted to reach engine components. 
         [0252]      FIG. 71  shows a front elevation in partial view of the fluid harness  711  with mounting blocks  761  and  763 , which are also shown in  FIG. 60 , attached to the compressor module  701 . 
         [0253]    As shown in  FIG. 72  in partial cross-section, refrigerant tubes  765  and  767  have ends secured in blocks  761  and have opposite ends passing through blocks  763 . Refrigerant tubes  768  and  769  have ends secured in block  763  and have opposite ends passing through block  761 . Shell covers  771  on the tubes prevent the tubes from buckling as the tubes twist to allow repositioning of the modules of the refrigeration unit. 
         [0254]      FIG. 73  is a partial view of the tubes and shell covers  771  as appear between the blocks  761  and  763  in  FIG. 60 . 
         [0255]      FIGS. 74 and 75  show two tube connections of the fluid tube harness  711  to the condenser module  709 .  FIG. 74  shows the tubes  773  and  775 . Tube  775  is fixed at one end  777  to the condenser module  709  and is turnable at the other end  779  in bearing sleeve  781 . Tube  773  is fixed at one end  783  to the condenser module  709 . The other end  785  of tube  773  is turnable in bearing sleeve  787 . The twisting of tubes between the fixed ends and the bearing sleeves allows the repositioning of the condenser module  709  with respect to the compressor module. Sleeves  771  are placed over the tubes to prevent buckling of the tubes when they are twisted. Plates  789  at opposite sides of the condenser modules  709  are connected through the guide openings  775  to the actuators  753 , as shown in  FIG. 69 . 
         [0256]      FIGS. 76 and 77  show the motor and compressor connection. 
         [0257]      FIG. 76  is an exploded view showing compressor  721  and the motor  723  which are to be coupled by the magnetic drive connection  725 . The hermetically sealed chamber  790  has a plate  791  which is secured by bolts  793  to the compressor housing. A first magnetic coupler  795  is connected to the compressor drive shaft  797 . The entire chamber  790  is sealed to the compressor, providing a hermetically sealed unit to prevent escape of refrigerant. A thin cover  799  separates the magnets  801  from the magnets  803  on the drive part  805 , which is connected to the motor drive shaft  807 . The units are shown assembled in  FIG. 77 . 
         [0258]      FIG. 78  schematically shows options of the new refrigeration units. Any number of vehicle drives  811  with universal control units  813  may provide plural drives  815  to plural universal drive joints  817 . Optional power sources  819  may be connected to the drives  815 , and plural external optional standby power sources and electrical mains may supply the optional power sources  819 . Optional control units  823 , which are connected to the new refrigeration apparatus  700 , may have inputs from external controls  825 , external power sources  819  and the containers  827 , which have the conditioned spaces. The containers have outside and internal covers  829 , and drains and drain heaters  831  are connected to the internal covers. The covers may have fans  833  which force external air through the condenser and internal air through the evaporators. The new transport refrigeration apparatus  700  has the option of having evaporator fans and condenser fans in the lids  835  of the condenser and evaporator modules. Plural housing fixing sides  741  are provided so that the new transport refrigeration apparatus  700  may be arranged and held together and connected to the front wall of a container by mechanical connections of the fixing sides. A tamper evident seal  743  may be provided around the complete transport refrigeration apparatus  700 . 
         [0259]      FIG. 79  schematically represents driver connections for the flexible hermetic refrigeration  700 . In that unit fans are always mounted on module lids or in unit covers  841 , and the variable displacement hermetic compressor  721  is always driven by a magnetic coupler  725 . Plural electric motors  723  drive the magnetic coupler  725 . External standby power such as from mains  843  is available to drive the plural electric motors. Over the road  845  the motors are vehicle-engine driven  847  or dedicated-engine driven  849 . Optional over-the-road drivers  850  are plural DC electric motors  851 , plural hydraulic motors  853 , or flexible mechanical shafts  855 , which drive the magnetic couplings  825 . 
         [0260]    As shown in  FIG. 80 , the transport refrigeration system  900  employs manufacturers  901  which ship  903  modules and subassemblies  905  to assemblers  907 . The assemblers ship  909  the self-contained flexible refrigeration units  700  to distributors  911 , who in turn ship  913  the refrigeration units  700  to dealers  915 . The dealers  915  maintain a limited number of self-contained transport refrigeration systems  700  in inventory  917 . When a transport container  919  has problems with a refrigeration unit, the dealers  915  remove  921  the old unit and replace  923  the old unit with a fresh self-contained refrigeration unit  700 . The removed refrigeration units  925  are shipped  927  to repairers  929 , which employ skilled refrigeration system workers. After the refrigeration units have been repaired, they are transferred  931  to the assemblers to test and reuse the complete refrigeration systems  700  or to remove and test and reuse valid modules and subassemblies  905 . 
         [0261]      FIG. 81  shows schematically the leasing system  940 . A transport refrigeration company  941  leases refrigeration  943  to fleet owners, truck owners or container owners  945 . The transport refrigeration company provides dealers  947  with inventories  949  of complete self-contained transport refrigeration systems  700 . The dealers  947  install  951  refrigeration units  700  in containers  919 . When a particular container or trailer or other conditioned space has trouble with the refrigeration units, the dealer removes  921  the refrigeration unit and replaces  923  a refrigeration unit  700  from its inventory  949 . The dealer returns  927  the removed refrigeration unit to the transport refrigeration company, which then sends another unit for the dealers&#39; inventory. 
         [0262]    While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, modifications and variations of the invention may be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the following claims.