Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to regulating outlet and inlet coolant temperatures of generator sets (gensets).

Generator sets (gensets) can be used for power generation in locomotives, trucks, recreational vehicles, marine vessels as well as for grid power generation. Gensets may include a prime mover, such as an internal combustion (IC) engine, that converts fuel into mechanical energy to rotate a generator (e.g., an alternator). The generator can convert the mechanical energy into useable electrical energy at a line voltage and frequency suitable for transmission and utilization. Certain gensets may use a cooling system to adjust the temperature of the engine. During operation, a cooling substance can flow through the engine to reduce heat generated by the engine. The heated substance may circulate from the engine through a heat exchanger, a radiator, and/or other cooling devices. The heated substance may release the absorbed heat by flowing through the heat exchanger (or other cooling devices), thereby reducing the temperature of the heated substance. The cooling system may circulate the cooled substance through the engine to remove accumulated heat. <CIT>) discloses a thermoelectric generator system comprising a generator, which can include inlet piping, outlet piping, an engine, and a programmable logic control system.

The invention is defined in the independent Claims.

In a first aspect, the present invention comprises a method of regulating an outlet coolant temperature of a genset and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset. The genset comprises an engine, a generator, and at least one controller. The method includes determining a load condition of the genset. The method includes selecting an operating mode from between a first mode associated with a first load condition and a second mode associated with a second load condition responsive to determining the load condition of the genset. The first mode and the second mode are configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops. The method includes determining, using the selected operating mode, the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature. The method includes regulating the outlet coolant temperature based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature by adjusting an operation of one or more coolant valves.

In some embodiments, selecting the operation mode includes selecting the first mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset is the first load condition, wherein the first load condition is be a steady state condition in which a load of the generator is below a predetermined load threshold value. In some embodiments, selecting the operating mode includes selecting the second mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset is the second load condition, wherein the second load condition may be a steady state condition in which a load of the generator is above a predetermined load threshold value. In some embodiments, the method includes determining the load condition of the genset is a transient condition in which a load of the generator undergoes a transitory change, wherein the transitory change comprises a change of at least <NUM>% of a nominal load value.

In some embodiments, the method includes adjusting the target inlet coolant temperature for a period of time using an interpolation calculator responsive to determining the load condition of the genset corresponds to the transient condition, wherein the interpolation calculator is configured to adjust the target inlet coolant temperature using at least one of: a cold start indicator or the load of the generator, wherein the cold start indicator comprises an indication of whether the outlet coolant temperature reaches a predetermined temperature threshold value.

In some embodiments, the method includes determining the load condition of the genset is a start-up condition in which the generator is turned on for a first time and/or an operating temperature of the generator is below a predetermined temperature threshold value wherein determining that the load condition of the genset is the start-up condition is based on information provided by a cold start indicator.

In some embodiments, the method includes determining the target inlet coolant temperature using at least one of a plurality of analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loops, a plurality of binary PID control loops, and the interpolation calculator, wherein the interpolation calculator and the plurality of analog PID control loops are external control loops and the plurality of binary PID control loops are internal control loops, wherein the internal control loops are configured to receive one or more inputs from the external control loops, wherein the internal control loops are configured adjust the operation of the one or more coolant valves. In some embodiments, the external control loops are configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature configured to be received as the one or more inputs by the internal control loops.

In a second aspect, the present invention comprises a control device for regulating an outlet coolant temperature of a genset and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset. The genset includes an engine, a generator, and at least one control device. The control device includes a machine-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon and a processing circuit configured to execute the instructions to: determine a load condition of the genset, select an operating mode from between a first mode associated with a first load condition and a second mode associated with a second load condition responsive to determining the load condition of the genset, wherein the first mode and the second mode are configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops, determine, using the selected operating mode, the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature, and regulate the outlet coolant temperature based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature by adjusting an operation of one or more coolant valves. The processing circuit may be configured to select the first load condition is a steady state condition in which a load of the generator is below a predetermined load threshold value.

In a third aspect, the present invention comprises a genset. The genset includes an engine, a generator coupleable to a load, and a cooling system configured to adjust a temperature of the engine. The cooling system includes a heat exchanger, a radiator, one or more coolant valves, one or more temperature sensors, and at least one control device according to the second aspect of the present invention.

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures.

Referring generally to the figures, systems and methods that may be used to regulate an outlet coolant temperature of a genset and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset are provided according to exemplary embodiments. The genset includes an engine, a generator (e.g., an alternator), at least one controller, and other components. An inlet coolant temperature of a genset (e.g., a high temperature (HT) inlet temperature) may specify a temperature of a cooling substance, such as coolant, as the cooling substance enters the engine. An outlet coolant temperature of the genset (e.g., an HT outlet temperature) may indicate a temperature of the cooling substance as the cooling substance leaves the engine.

Certain gensets may use a cooling system to adjust the temperature of the engine or other components of the genset. The cooling system may include a heat exchanger, a radiator, or other cooling devices, as well as one or more valves, one or more temperature sensors and/or at least one controller. In some embodiments, a cooling system may cause a cooling substance, such as coolant, to flow or circulate through or around the engine (or other components of the genset) to reduce or absorb heat (e.g., heat generated by the engine). The cooling system may prevent or reduce overheating of the engine or other components of the genset. As the coolant flows through or around the engine, for example, the coolant can absorb heat from the engine, thereby reducing the temperature of the engine during operation while increasing the temperature of the coolant. The cooling system may pump, drive, guide, or otherwise circulate the heated coolant (e.g., HT coolant) from the engine through a radiator, for instance, causing a reduction of the temperature of the heated coolant. In certain embodiments, one or more temperature sensors (e.g., HT outlet temperature sensors or other sensors) can measure or monitor an outlet coolant temperature of the genset (the temperature of the heated coolant as it leaves the engine, such as an HT outlet temperature). If the temperature of the heated coolant at an outlet of the engine (e.g., an outlet coolant temperature of the genset) meets or exceeds a certain temperature value, the cooling system may direct, route, or guide the heated coolant through the radiator to reduce, decrease, or regulate the temperature of the heated coolant. One or more temperature sensors (e.g., HT inlet temperature sensors) can monitor or measure an inlet coolant temperature of the genset (e.g., the temperature of the coolant as it leaves the radiator or enters the engine).

However, regulating the outlet coolant temperature or the inlet coolant temperature by monitoring the temperature of the coolant at the outlet of the engine may cause unreliable performance results in the genset, such as temperature oscillations and temperature overshoots/undershoots. For example, certain coolant systems may adjust or regulate the inlet coolant temperature by measuring the temperature of the coolant as it leaves the engine. If a load of a generator changes (e.g., a + <NUM>% change in load) or the inlet coolant temperature is below a certain temperature value (e.g., inlet coolant temperature is less than <NUM> due to weather conditions), adjusting the inlet coolant temperature by measuring the outlet coolant temperature may cause or introduce temperature oscillations. The temperature oscillations can be caused by a delay between the change in the load of the generator, for example, and a response of the cooling system (e.g., a response to a change in the outlet coolant temperature).

Ensuring that the engine of the genset operates at a proper temperature (e.g., proper inlet coolant temperature and/or proper outlet coolant temperature) may result in an optimum performance of the engine and genset. An engine with an operating temperature exceeding a certain temperature value (e.g., <NUM> or other temperature values) can cause permanent damage to the engine and/or to peripheral components (e.g., exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, etc.). Furthermore, an engine with an operating temperature below a certain temperature value may suffer from, among other detriments, inefficient fuel economy. Therefore, maintaining an operating temperature in the engine or genset may support, enhance, or improve short-term performance of the engine and long-term engine health.

The present disclosure provides exemplary systems and methods for regulating the outlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature by determining a target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., via one or more control loops) using a target outlet coolant temperature (e.g., <NUM> or other values), an outlet coolant temperature, and/or a load of a generator. The outlet coolant temperature of the genset can be regulated or adjusted using the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature. The systems and methods presented herein may prevent temperature oscillations, temperature overshoots, and/or temperature undershoots in a genset (e.g., in an engine of the genset). Furthermore, exemplary systems and methods may improve the temperature stability of the generator during a transient load, reduce cylinder knock, and decrease NOx emission deviations from a predetermined standard. According to some embodiments, the systems and methods of the present disclosure may reduce or decrease power consumption and noise emission from a radiator fan by increasing an outlet temperature of the radiator.

An exemplary method includes determining, by at least one controller, for example, a load condition of the genset. Responsive to determining the load condition, the at least one controller may select or identify an operating mode from between a first mode associated with a first load condition and a second mode associated with a second load condition. The first mode and the second mode are configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops. The at least one controller (or other components of the genset) may use the selected operating mode to determine the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature. The at least one controller, for example, may adjust an operation of one or more coolant valves to regulate the outlet coolant temperature based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature.

Referring to <FIG>, a block diagram illustrating a generator system <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the generator system <NUM> includes a genset <NUM>, one or more temperature sensors <NUM>, one or more valves <NUM>, a radiator <NUM>, at least one controller <NUM>, and a control module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the generators system <NUM> may include one or more gensets <NUM>. In some embodiments, a housing <NUM> of the generator system <NUM> can include the gensets <NUM>, the controller <NUM> and the control module <NUM> (e.g., the same generator system <NUM> can include the genset <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, and the control module <NUM>). In some embodiments, the genset <NUM> can be separate and communicatively coupled to the controller <NUM>, the control module <NUM>, and the radiator <NUM>, such that the controller <NUM>, the control module <NUM>, and the radiator <NUM> are separate from the generator system <NUM>. The genset <NUM> includes an engine <NUM> coupled to a generator <NUM>. In some embodiments, the genset <NUM> includes one or more engines <NUM> and generators <NUM>. The engine <NUM> may be any type of machine configured to convert energy, such as fuel, into mechanical energy (e.g., motion). The engine <NUM> may be an internal combustion engine (e.g., gasoline engine, natural gas engine, or diesel engine), a hybrid engine (e.g., a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor), a high horse power engine (HHPE), and/or any other suitable engine. The engine <NUM> may be any type of engine that uses a cooling substance, such as a coolant, to maintain a target operating temperature.

The generator <NUM> may be any type of machine configured to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, such as an alternating current. The generator <NUM> can include a wound rotor or permanent magnet alternator configured to convert a rotational mechanical power produced by the engine <NUM> into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the generator <NUM> can be mechanically coupled to the engine <NUM> by a mechanical linkage that can provide a desired turn ratio, a torque converter, a transmission, any other form of rotary linking mechanism, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, an inverter can also be electrically coupled to the generator <NUM>.

The generator <NUM> is configured to produce an electrical output. The electrical output can include a voltage and/or a current, and is representative of a load on the engine <NUM>. For example, the electrical output can correspond to the engine <NUM> power (e.g., power = voltage x current). In particular embodiments, the electrical output from the generator <NUM> can be converted or inverted to transform the electrical output from a direct current (DC) to an alternating current (AC). In some embodiments, the genset <NUM> may include different and/or additional components than engine <NUM> and generator <NUM> (e.g., a hydraulically powered generator driven using hydraulic fluid). The generator system <NUM> may be a mastered or masterless system (e.g., a masterless load demand genset system or a mastered paralleled genset system, with a centralized system controller coordinating the gensets <NUM> of the system <NUM>, or a distributed system <NUM> control contained in the gensets <NUM> of the system <NUM>, respectively).

The at least one controller <NUM> includes a processor <NUM> and an input/output terminal <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may include one or more processors or one or more processors that include multiple processing cores. The processor <NUM> may be implemented as a single- or multichip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A processor <NUM> may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, or state machine. A processor <NUM> may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, the one or more processors <NUM> may be shared by multiple circuits (e.g., one or more circuits may share the same processor <NUM> which, in some example embodiments, may execute instructions stored, or otherwise accessed, via different areas of memory). Alternatively or additionally, the one or more processors <NUM> may be structured to perform or otherwise execute certain operations independent of one or more coprocessors. In other example embodiments, two or more processors <NUM> may be coupled via a bus to enable independent, parallel, pipelined, or multi-threaded instruction execution. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

The controller <NUM> may include a memory device that is configured to store machine-readable media. The machine readable media being readable by the processor <NUM> in order to execute the programs stored therein. The memory device (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and/or machine-readable media for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory device may be communicatively coupled to the processor <NUM> to provide computer code, machine-readable media, or instructions to the processor <NUM> for executing at least some of the processes described herein. Moreover, the memory device may be or include tangible, non-transient volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Accordingly, the memory device may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein. The memory device may include or store a database of target values (e.g., a target inlet coolant temperature or a target outlet coolant temperature) or other control or calculation parameters.

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> can be coupled to the engine <NUM>, the control module <NUM>, the one or more valves <NUM>, and/or other components of the generator system <NUM> via the input/output interface <NUM>. The input/output interface <NUM> may include one or more terminals configured to connect to the genset <NUM>, the control module <NUM>, and the one or more valves <NUM>. For example, one or more input terminals of the input/output interface <NUM> may be connected to one or more output terminals of the control module <NUM> in order to receive one or more measured temperature values (e.g., an inlet coolant temperature and an outlet coolant temperature measured by the temperature sensors <NUM>). Additionally, the input/output interface <NUM> may include one or more output terminals configured to connect to one or more valves <NUM> (e.g., one or more coolant valves) in order to adjust an operation of the one or more valves <NUM> (e.g., to regulate an outlet coolant temperature). The output terminals may be configured to send or transmit a signal to the one or more valves <NUM>, wherein the signal may cause the one or more valves <NUM> to "open" or "close" (e.g., adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>). The one or more input terminals and the one or more output terminals of the input/output interface <NUM> may be embodied as one or more physical contacts or as a combination of physical electrical contacts and wireless terminals.

In some embodiments, the input/output interface <NUM> of the controller <NUM> includes an electrical bus. In some embodiments, the input/output interface <NUM> may be wired via a physical electrical connection to some components (e.g., to the genset <NUM> or the one or more valves <NUM>) and wirelessly connected to other components (e.g., to the control module <NUM> or the one or more temperature sensors <NUM>). In some embodiments, the input/output interface <NUM> is connected to one or more components wirelessly. That is, it is to be appreciated that terms such as "terminal" are not meant to be limited to a physical terminal configured to be connected physically to another device or "terminal" unless expressly recited.

In some embodiments, the input/output interface <NUM> of the controller <NUM> may include one or more input terminals connected to one or more temperature sensors <NUM> or other sensors that measure the voltage, power factor, power, and current of the output of the genset <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may receive the information regarding the temperature (e.g., an outlet coolant temperature and an inlet coolant temperature), voltage, power factor, power, and current of the genset <NUM> from one or more sensors (e.g., one or more temperature sensors <NUM>). In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may receive the information regarding the temperature, voltage, power factor, power, and current of the genset <NUM> from the control module <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> may receive sensed/measured values of the inlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature from the control module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may receive information regarding the temperature, voltage, power factor, power, and current of the genset <NUM> from multiples sources (e.g., the control module <NUM> and the sensors <NUM>).

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> can be included in the control module <NUM>. The control module <NUM> (e.g., an engine control module (ECM)) may be in electrical communication with one or more of the components of the genset <NUM> described herein, such as the engine <NUM> or the temperature sensors <NUM>. In some embodiments, the control module <NUM> may control or regulate the performance of the engine <NUM>. Furthermore, the control module <NUM> may be operable to perform the sensing and control functions described herein. For example, the control module <NUM> may perform the sensing of one or more temperature values (e.g., inlet coolant temperature and outlet coolant temperature) measured by the temperature sensors <NUM> via an input/output interface of the control module <NUM>. In another example, the control module <NUM> can perform the control and sensing functions as described herein in reference to the controller <NUM>. In some embodiments, the control module <NUM> and the controller <NUM> may be integrated into one device (e.g., the communication between the control module <NUM> and the controller <NUM> can be direct). In other embodiments, the control module <NUM> and the controller <NUM> may be separated into different devices that are communicatively coupled. Additionally or alternatively, the controller <NUM> may be connected to the genset <NUM> in a similar manner as the control module <NUM>, such that the controller <NUM> may perform the functions as described in reference to the control module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the at least one controller <NUM> (or control module <NUM>) may be configured to at least partly control the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>, the engine <NUM>, and/or other components of the generator system <NUM>. The controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) may be configured to determine a load condition of the genset <NUM>, wherein the load condition includes a steady state condition, a transient condition, and/or other load conditions. Responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM>, the controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) can select an operating mode from between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode may be associated with a first load condition, such as a steady state condition in which a load of the generator <NUM> is below a predetermined load threshold value. The second mode may be associated with a second load condition, such as a steady state condition in which a load of the generator <NUM> is above a predetermined load threshold value.

The controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) may be configured to use the selected operating mode (e.g., the first mode or the second mode) to determine a target inlet coolant temperature. The controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) may determine the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and/or an outlet coolant temperature. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) may regulate the outlet coolant temperature based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and/or the inlet coolant temperature. For example, the controller <NUM> may adjust an operation of one or more coolant valves <NUM> to regulate the outlet coolant temperature. By adjusting the operation of one or more coolant valves <NUM>, the controller <NUM> (or the control module <NUM>) can modify or adjust a flow of a cooling substance, such as coolant, through the generator system <NUM> and regulate the outlet coolant temperature.

In the illustrated embodiment, the generator system <NUM> may include one or more temperature sensors <NUM>. The one or more temperature sensors <NUM> may include an outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) and an inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>). An inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) can be placed or positioned on a cold side of the engine <NUM>. A cold side of the engine may indicate that the coolant (or other cooling substance) has yet to be circulated through the engine <NUM> to absorb heat (e.g., heat generated by the engine <NUM>). The inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) may be configured to sense a temperature of the coolant as the coolant enters the engine <NUM>. The outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) can be placed or positioned on a hot side of the engine <NUM>. A hot side of the engine may specify that the coolant has circulated through the engine <NUM> and has absorbed heat (e.g., heat generated by the engine <NUM>). The outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) may be configured to sense a temperature of the coolant as the coolant leaves the engine <NUM>. The inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) and outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) may include one or more sensors arranged to measure or otherwise acquire data, values, or information regarding the temperature of the coolant. The one or more temperature sensors <NUM> may be real sensors, virtual sensors, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) and the outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) may be configured to send or transmit one or more signals to the control module <NUM> (or the controller <NUM>). The signal(s) may specify or provide the temperature of the coolant as it flows through or proximate to the inlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>) and the outlet temperature sensor <NUM>(<NUM>). The control module <NUM> (or the controller <NUM>) may use the signal(s) received from the temperature sensors <NUM> to analyze the temperature of the coolant in the generator system <NUM> and perform various operations or actions in response to the signal(s). For example, the control module <NUM> may receive the signal(s) from the one or more temperature sensors <NUM> and transmit the signal(s) to the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may use the received signal(s) from the control module <NUM> to analyze the temperature of the coolant in the generator system <NUM> and perform various operations or actions in response to these signals.

In the illustrated embodiment, the generator system <NUM> may include one or more valves <NUM> and a radiator <NUM>. A cooling substance, such as coolant, may be any type of heat transfer substance that is capable of absorbing heat from the engine <NUM>, such as water, inorganic additive technology, organic additive technology, hybrid organic acid technology, oil, glycol-based fluids, and/or other types of substances. The radiator <NUM> can serve as a heat exchanger for the cooling substance (e.g., coolant or other substances) within the generator system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radiator <NUM> may include a cooling fan that increases the cooling rate of the coolant (or other substances) that flows through the radiator <NUM>. The radiator <NUM> can be coupled to the engine <NUM> and configured to receive coolant from the engine <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more valves <NUM> may include at least one coolant valve (e.g., an AMOT valve). The coolant valve can be a three-way coolant valve configured to receive coolant from the engine <NUM>. The coolant valve may direct or guide the coolant from the engine <NUM> either back to the engine <NUM> or to the radiator <NUM>. The coolant valve may be any type of valve suitable for receiving hot coolant from the engine <NUM> and selectively diverting coolant back to the engine <NUM> or the radiator <NUM> (e.g., thermostatic three-way valve, electrical or other actuated three-way valve, a suitable non-three-way valve, or other types of valves).

In some embodiments, coolant (or other cooling substances) can be pumped or directed (e.g., pumped by a coolant pump) into the engine <NUM> at an inlet (e.g., a "cold side"). The coolant may flow through the engine <NUM> and absorb heat produced by the engine <NUM>. Therefore, the temperature of the engine <NUM> may decrease, while the temperature of the coolant may increase. The coolant may leave the engine <NUM> at an outlet (e.g., a "hot side") and flow into the coolant valve (e.g., one or more valves <NUM>). In some embodiments, the coolant valve may route a portion of the coolant back into the engine <NUM> (e.g., pumped by a coolant pump) without flowing through the radiator <NUM>. The coolant valve may direct another portion of the coolant to the radiator <NUM>. If the portion of the coolant is directed to the radiator <NUM>, the radiator <NUM> may reduce or decrease the temperature of the coolant through at least one of exposure to outside air or the cooling fan. The coolant, after being cooled (e.g., a reduction of the temperature of the coolant) by the radiator <NUM>, can be directed into the engine <NUM>, where the coolant flow process may repeat itself. The operation of the coolant valves (e.g., directing a portion of the heated coolant from the engine <NUM> to the radiator <NUM> or directing the heated coolant back to the engine <NUM>) may be regulated or controlled by the controller <NUM> or the control module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the one or more valves <NUM> (e.g. one or more coolant valves) may be downstream from the radiator <NUM>. Therefore, the coolant valve may be configured to combine cooled coolant from the radiator <NUM> with heated coolant from the engine <NUM>. For example, the heated coolant leaving the engine <NUM> may flow into a T-junction. A portion of the heated coolant can be directed from the T-junction to the radiator <NUM>, while another portion of the heated coolant bypasses the radiator <NUM> and flows into the coolant valve. The coolant flowing into the radiator <NUM> may be exposed to at least one of outside air or the cooling fan, thereby reducing the temperature of the coolant. The coolant valve may combine a portion of the heated coolant from the engine <NUM> and a portion of the cooled coolant from the radiator <NUM>, based on analysis and direction from the controller <NUM> or the control module <NUM>. In such embodiments, the coolant valve may be referred to as a "mixing valve.

<FIG> illustrates a flow diagram of a method <NUM> for regulating an outlet coolant temperature of a genset <NUM> and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. The method <NUM> may be implemented using any of the components and devices detailed herein in conjunction with <FIG>. In overview, the method <NUM> may include determining a load condition of the genset <NUM> (<NUM>). The method <NUM> may include selecting an operating mode from between a first mode and a second mode (<NUM>). The method <NUM> may include determining a target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature (<NUM>). The method <NUM> may include regulating the outlet coolant temperature based on the target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature (<NUM>).

Referring now to operation <NUM>, and in some embodiments, the method <NUM> includes determining a load condition of the genset <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>, such as the control module <NUM>) may determine or identify a load condition of the genset <NUM>. In some embodiments, the load condition of the genset <NUM> may include a steady state condition and/or other types of load conditions. A steady state condition may describe a load condition of the genset <NUM> in which a load of the genset <NUM> is unchanged, constant, or steady for a certain time period. The operation or performance of one or more components of the generator system <NUM>, such as the genset <NUM>, may be stable or constant during a steady state condition. In some embodiments, the load condition of the genset <NUM> may correspond to a steady state condition in which the load of the generator <NUM> is below or above a predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>% of a nominal load). For example, the load condition of the genset <NUM> may be a steady state condition in which the load of the generator <NUM> is below <NUM>% (or other percentage values, such as <NUM>%) of a nominal load. In another example, the load condition of the genset <NUM> may be a steady state condition in which the load of the generator <NUM> is above <NUM>% (or other percentage values, such as <NUM>%) of a nominal load. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may determine whether the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a steady state condition in which the load of the generator <NUM> is below or above a predetermined load threshold value.

In some embodiments, the load condition of the genset <NUM> may include a transient condition, a start-up condition (e.g., a cold start condition), and/or other types of load conditions. A transient condition may describe a load condition of the genset <NUM> in which a load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., a load of the generator) undergoes a transitory change (e.g., a change of + <NUM>% of the nominal load) during a certain time instance. The operation or performance of one or more components of the generator system <NUM>, such as the genset <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, may be changed or adjusted responsive to determining or detecting a transient condition. For example, a load of the genset <NUM> may change by at least <NUM>% (or other percentage values) of a nominal load on island mode. The controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may detect or identify the change of the load of the genset <NUM> by determining the change exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., exceeds <NUM>%, or other percentage values, of a nominal load). Responsive to detecting the change (e.g., a change of at least <NUM>% of a nominal load), the controller <NUM>, for instance, may determine that the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a transient condition.

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a start-up condition. The start-up condition may describe a load condition of the genset <NUM> in which the genset <NUM> is turned on or used for a first time. In some embodiments, the start-up condition may describe a load condition of the genset <NUM> in which the operating temperature of the genset <NUM> (e.g., the generator <NUM>) is below a predetermined temperature value (e.g., <NUM> or other values). The controller <NUM>, for example, may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a start-up condition (e.g., a cold start condition) by using information provided by a cold start indicator <NUM>.

Referring now to operation <NUM>, and in some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include selecting an operating mode from between a first mode and a second mode. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select or identify an operating mode from between a first mode and a second mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM>. The first mode may be associated with a first load condition. The second mode may be associated with a second load condition. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>, for instance, may select the first mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> is the first load condition. The first load condition may be a steady state condition (or other load conditions) in which a load of the generator <NUM> is below a predetermined load threshold value, such as <NUM>% (or other percentage values) of a nominal load. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select the second mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> is the second load condition. The second load condition may be a steady state condition (or other load conditions) in which a load of the generator <NUM> is above a predetermined load threshold value, such as <NUM>% (or other percentage values) of the nominal load.

In some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include selecting an operating mode from between the first mode, the second mode, and a third mode. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select or identify an operating mode from between the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM>. The third mode may be associated with a third load condition. The third load condition may be the transient condition (or other load conditions, such as a start-up condition), in which a load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., a load of the generator) undergoes a transitory change or fluctuation (e.g., a change of ± <NUM>% of the nominal load). The controller <NUM>, for instance, may select the third mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> is the third load condition. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may select the third mode (e.g., a third mode associated with a transient condition) responsive to determining an operating temperature of the genset <NUM> (e.g., the outlet coolant temperature) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value (e.g., <NUM> or other temperature values). A cold start indicator <NUM> may specify whether the operating temperature of the genset <NUM> (e.g., the outlet coolant temperature) reaches (e.g., meets or exceeds) the predetermined threshold value. Therefore, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select the third mode responsive to receiving or analyzing the information provided by the cold start indicator <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may use the cold start indicator <NUM> to determine whether an operating temperature of the genset <NUM> reaches the predetermined threshold value. Responsive to the determination, the controller <NUM> may select the third mode.

In some embodiments, the first mode, the second mode, and/or other modes (e.g., a third mode) may be configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops. The one or more control loops may be configured as cascaded control loops with at least one analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID), at least one binary PID, and/or an interpolation calculator <NUM>. For example, the first mode and the second mode may be configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using a set of control loops. The set of control loops may be configured as cascaded control loops with at least one analog PID and/or at least one binary PID. In some embodiments, the output of the at least one analog PID (e.g., a target inlet coolant temperature) may provide the input (e.g., the set point) for the at least one binary PID. Therefore, the analog PID(s) may correspond to the external control loop(s) of the set of control loops, while the binary PID(s) may correspond to the internal control loop(s). The analog PID(s) may use an outlet coolant temperature (e.g., measured by the one or more outlet temperature sensors <NUM>(<NUM>)) and/or a target outlet coolant temperature (e.g., configured or defined based on the engine <NUM>) to determine a target inlet coolant temperature. The binary PID(s) may use the target inlet coolant temperature and/or an inlet coolant temperature (e.g., measured by the one or more inlet temperature sensors <NUM>(<NUM>)) to regulate or adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>. By regulating the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>, the binary PID(s) may adjust, regulate, or modify the outlet coolant temperature.

Referring now to operation <NUM>, and in some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include determining the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature and/or the outlet coolant temperature. For instance, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may use the selected operating mode (e.g., a first mode or a second mode) to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The controller <NUM> may determine the target inlet coolant temperature by using the target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select a first mode responsive to determining that the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a first load condition (e.g., a steady state condition in which a load of the generator is below <NUM>% of a nominal load). The controller <NUM> may use one or more control loops of the first mode (or other operating modes) to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. For instance, the controller <NUM> may use at least one analog PID of the one or more control loops of the first mode to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The analog PID may use the target outlet coolant temperature and the outlet coolant temperature to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The target outlet coolant temperature may be predetermined or configured based on one or more parameters of the engine <NUM> (e.g., the type or design of an engine <NUM>). For example, the target outlet coolant temperature may be configured to a value of <NUM> (or other temperature values). The outlet coolant temperature can be measured or sensed by one or more temperature sensors <NUM> at the outlet of the engine <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include determining or adjusting the target inlet coolant temperature using an interpolation calculator <NUM>. For example, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine the target inlet coolant temperature responsive to a determination that the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a transient condition. For instance, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select a third mode responsive to determining that the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a third load condition (e.g., a transient condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> changes by at least ± <NUM>% of a nominal load). The controller <NUM> may use one or more control loops of the third mode to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The one or more control loops of the third mode may include an interpolation calculator <NUM> and/or a binary PID. For instance, the controller <NUM> may use the interpolation calculator <NUM> of the one or more control loops of the third mode to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The interpolation calculator <NUM> may use a cold start indicator <NUM> and the load of the genset <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. For example, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may use configured values of inlet coolant temperature, corresponding to certain values of the load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>% of a nominal load and <NUM>% of a nominal load), and measured or actual values of the load of the genset <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature.

In some embodiments, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may adjust or determine the target inlet coolant temperature for a period of time. For example, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may analyze the load of the genset <NUM> to determine whether the load changes by a certain amount (e.g., ± <NUM>% of nominal load value or other amounts). If the interpolation calculator <NUM> detects a change in the load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., a transient condition), the interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine a target inlet coolant temperature. The interpolation calculator <NUM> can maintain the determined target inlet coolant temperature for a period of time (e.g., <NUM> seconds after the change in the load of the genset <NUM> has been detected).

In some embodiments, the cold start indicator <NUM> may cause the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., using the load of the genset <NUM>). The cold start indicator <NUM> may provide or specify an indication of whether the target operating temperature of the genset <NUM> or the outlet coolant temperature reaches (e.g., meets or exceeds) a predetermined temperature threshold value (e.g., <NUM> or other temperature values). In one exemplary embodiment, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may receive, obtain, or analyze the information provided by the cold start indicator <NUM>. The interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine the cold start indicator <NUM> specifies an outlet coolant temperature reaching a predetermined temperature threshold value. Responsive to the determination, the cold start indicator <NUM> may cause or trigger the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. In another example, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine the cold start indicator <NUM> specifies an outlet coolant temperature that is below the predetermined temperature threshold value. Therefore, the cold start indicator <NUM> may prevent the interpolation calculator <NUM> from determining the target inlet coolant temperature. In some embodiments, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may prevent or reduce temperature overshoots or undershoots during a transient condition.

Referring now to operation <NUM>, and in some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include regulating the outlet coolant temperature based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and/or the inlet coolant temperature. The outlet coolant temperature may be regulated by adjusting or controlling an operation of one or more coolant valves <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may adjust an operation of one or more valves <NUM>, thereby regulating the outlet coolant temperature. In some embodiments, one or more control loops of an operating mode (e.g., a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode) may be used (e.g., used by the controller <NUM> or the control module <NUM>) to regulate the outlet coolant temperature and/or adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components) may use at least one binary PID (or other PIDs) of the one or more control loops of the selected operating mode to regulate the outlet coolant temperature. The at least one binary PID may regulate the outlet coolant temperature based on a determined target inlet coolant temperature and/or a measured inlet coolant temperature.

At least one analog PID (e.g., an analog PID of a first mode or a second mode) or an interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine the target inlet coolant temperature used by the at least one binary PID. One or more temperature sensors <NUM> (e.g., one or more inlet temperature sensors <NUM>) may provide or specify the measured inlet coolant temperature to the at least one binary PID (e.g., via the input/output interface <NUM> of the controller <NUM>). The at least one binary PID may use the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the measured inlet coolant temperature to adjust the operation of the one or more coolant valves <NUM>. For example, the at least one binary PID may adjust the operation of the one or more coolant valves <NUM> by sending or transmitting an "open or close" signal to the one or more coolant valves <NUM>. The signal may cause the valves <NUM> to open or close, thereby controlling, adjusting, or modifying the flow of coolant through the radiator <NUM> or the engine <NUM>. By controlling or adjusting the flow of coolant, the controller <NUM> may use the at least one binary PID (in addition to the analog PID and the interpolation calculator <NUM>) to regulate the outlet coolant temperature.

Referring to <FIG>, a block diagram illustrating a system <NUM> for regulating an outlet coolant temperature of a genset <NUM> and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the system <NUM> includes one or more analog PIDs, one or more binary PIDs, an interpolation calculator <NUM>, and/or one or more valves <NUM>. In some embodiments, the system <NUM> may be used to determine a load condition of the genset <NUM>. The controller <NUM>, for instance, may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> by using the interpolation calculator <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> by analyzing the actual load of the genset <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may use the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine whether the load of the genset <NUM> undergoes a transitory change (e.g., a change of at least + <NUM>% of a nominal load). The interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a transient condition if the interpolation calculator <NUM> detects a transitory change.

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>, for example, may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> by using at least one of the analog PIDs. The controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may use at least one of the analog PIDs (or the interpolation calculator <NUM>) to determine whether the load of the genset <NUM> is above or below a predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>% of a nominal load or other percentage values). At least one of the analog PIDs may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a steady state condition if the controller <NUM> (e.g., the analog PID(s)) determines the load of the genset <NUM> is above or below the predetermined load threshold value. For example, the controller <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a first load condition, wherein the first load condition is a steady state condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> is below the predetermined load threshold value. In another example, the controller <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a second load condition, wherein the second load condition is a steady state condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> is above the predetermined load threshold value.

Responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM>, the system <NUM> may be used to select an operating mode. The system <NUM> may be used to select an operation mode from between a first mode, a second mode, and/or other modes (e.g., a third mode). The first mode may be associated with the first load condition (e.g., a steady state condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> is below the predetermined load threshold value). The second mode may be associated with the second load condition (e.g., a steady state condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> is above the predetermined load threshold value). For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select the first mode as the operating mode. The controller <NUM> may select the first mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to the first load condition. In another example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select the second mode as the operating mode. The controller <NUM> may select the second mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to the second load condition. In yet another example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may select the third mode as the operating mode. The controller <NUM> may select the third mode responsive to determining the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to a third load condition, wherein the third load condition is a transient condition.

In some embodiments, the first mode, the second mode, and/or other modes may be configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops. For example, the first mode may be configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature using a first set of one or more control loops. The second mode, for instance, may be configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature using a second set of one or more control loops. The first set of one or more control loops may include a first analog PID <NUM>, a first binary PID <NUM>, and/or other components. The second set of one or more control loops may include a second analog PID <NUM>, a second binary PID <NUM>, and/or other components. The first set and the second set of one or more control loops may be configured as cascaded control loops. For instance, the output of the first analog PID <NUM> and the second analog PID <NUM> may provide the input (e.g., the set point) for the first binary PID <NUM> and the second binary PID <NUM>. Therefore, the analog PIDs may correspond to the external control loop of each of the cascaded control loops, while the binary PIDs may correspond to the internal control loop. In some embodiments, the third mode may be configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature using a third set of one or more control loops. The third set of one or more control loops may include an interpolation calculator <NUM>, a third binary PID <NUM>, and/or other components. The output of the interpolation calculator <NUM> may provide the input (e.g., the set point) for the third binary PID <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the system <NUM> may be used to determine the target inlet coolant temperature using the target outlet coolant temperature <NUM> and/or the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. The system <NUM>, for instance, may use the selected operating mode (e.g., the first mode, the second mode, and/or the third mode) to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may use the first mode or the second mode to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. Responsive to selecting the first mode or the second mode, the controller <NUM> may use the first set or the second set of one or more control loops to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. Specifically, the controller <NUM> may use at least one analog PID (e.g., the first analog PID <NUM> and/or the second analog PID <NUM>) to determine the target inlet coolant temperature responsive to selecting the first mode or the second mode. The at least one analog PID (e.g., the first analog PID <NUM> and/or the second analog PID <NUM>) may determine or calculate the target inlet coolant temperature using the target outlet coolant temperature <NUM> and/or the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. Therefore, the target outlet coolant temperature <NUM> and the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> can be the inputs to the at least one analog PID, while the determined target inlet coolant temperature may be the output of the analog PID(s).

In some embodiments, the first analog PID <NUM> may determine or calculate the target inlet coolant temperature responsive to selecting the first mode. In some embodiments, the second analog PID <NUM> may determine the target inlet coolant temperature responsive to selecting the second mode. For example, the controller <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to the first load condition (or the second load condition), wherein the first load condition is the steady state condition in which the load of the generator <NUM> is below the predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>% of a nominal load, <NUM>% of a nominal load, and/or other values). Responsive to selecting the first mode (or the second mode), the controller <NUM> may use the first set (or the second set) of one or more control loops to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. Furthermore, the first analog PID <NUM> (or the second analog PID <NUM>) can be used to determine the target inlet temperature based on the target outlet coolant temperature <NUM> and the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. The one or more temperature sensors <NUM> can measure and provide the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> to the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM> that determine the target inlet coolant temperature). The target outlet coolant temperature <NUM> can be configured or predetermined according to one or more parameters of the engine <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the first analog PID <NUM> and the second analog PID <NUM> may be optimized or configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature at different loads (e.g., the first analog PID <NUM> and the second analog PID <NUM> may have different gains). For example, the first analog PID <NUM> may be configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature if the load of the genset <NUM> is a steady state load below the predetermined load threshold value (e.g., below <NUM>% of a nominal load). In another example, the second analog PID <NUM> may be configured to determine the target inlet coolant temperature if the load of the genset <NUM> is a steady state load above the predetermined load threshold value (e.g., above <NUM>% of a nominal load).

In some embodiments, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may determine or calculate the target inlet coolant temperature responsive to selecting the third mode. For example, the controller <NUM> may determine the load condition of the genset <NUM> corresponds to the third load condition, wherein the third load condition is a transient condition in which the load of the genset <NUM> changes by at least + <NUM>% (or other percentage values) of a nominal load. Responsive to selecting the third mode, the controller <NUM> may use the third set of one or more control loops to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. Furthermore, the interpolation calculator <NUM> can be used to determine the target inlet temperature based on the cold start indicator <NUM> and/or the actual load <NUM> of the genset <NUM>. For example, the cold start indicator <NUM> may cause the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine (e.g., based on the actual load <NUM>) and maintain the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., maintain for at least <NUM> seconds after a change in load is detected, or other time instances). The cold start indicator <NUM> may cause the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature if the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> meets or exceeds a certain temperature value (e.g., <NUM> or other temperature values).

In some embodiments, the system <NUM> may be used to regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature <NUM>. The system <NUM> may regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> by adjusting or modifying an operation of one or more coolant valves <NUM> (e.g., HT valves or AMOT valves). The system <NUM>, for instance, may use the selected operating mode (e.g., the first mode, the second mode, and/or the third mode) to regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may use the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode to regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. Responsive to selecting the first mode, the second mode or the third mode, the controller <NUM> may use the first set, the second set, or the third set of one or more control loops to regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>. Specifically, the controller <NUM> may use at least one binary PID (e.g., the first binary PID <NUM>, the second binary PID <NUM>, and/or the third binary PID <NUM>) to regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> responsive to selecting the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. The at least one binary PID may regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> by using the determined target inlet coolant temperature and/or the inlet coolant temperature <NUM>. Therefore, the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature <NUM> can be the inputs to the at least one binary PID. The one or more temperature sensors <NUM> can measure and provide the inlet coolant temperature <NUM> to the controller <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM> that regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM>).

In some embodiments, the first binary PID <NUM>, the second binary PID <NUM>, and/or the third binary PID <NUM> may be optimized or configured to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> at different loads (e.g., the PIDs may have different gains). For example, the first binary PID <NUM> may be configured to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> if the load of the genset <NUM> is a steady state load below the predetermined load threshold value (e.g., below <NUM>% of a nominal load). In another example, the second binary PID <NUM> may be configured to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> if the load of the genset <NUM> is a steady state load above the predetermined load threshold value (e.g., above <NUM>% of a nominal load). In yet another example, the third binary PID <NUM> may be configured to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> if the load of the genset <NUM> is transient. The third binary PID <NUM> can adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> for a certain period of time, such as <NUM> seconds (or other time instances) after the load of the genset <NUM> changes. At least one binary PID may adjust or modify the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> by sending a signal or command to the one or more valves <NUM>. The signal or command may include an "open or close" signal, wherein the signal causes the one or more valves <NUM> to "open" or "close". By causing the one or more valves <NUM> to "open" or "close", the at least one binary PID can regulate the outlet coolant temperature <NUM> by adjusting the amount or flow of coolant through the generator system <NUM> (e.g., the engine <NUM> or the radiator <NUM>).

<FIG> illustrates a logic diagram of a process <NUM> for regulating an outlet coolant temperature of a genset <NUM> and an inlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG> includes <FIG>, wherein <FIG> illustrate separate parts of a logic for regulating the outlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature. The circled letters at one end of a line/connector (e.g., a circled letter "A", a circled letter "B", or others) indicate corresponding connections or continuations between lines. One or more parts of <FIG> may be referenced for purposes of demonstration while discussing <FIG>. The logic of <FIG> can monitor or determine a load condition of the genset <NUM> and provide an output (e.g., logical binary output) that adjusts an operation of one or more valves <NUM> (e.g., AMOT valves). In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>, the control module <NUM>, or other components of the generator system <NUM> can implement the logic illustrated in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram can calculate a moving average (or other types of averages) of a plurality of actual active power values. Element <NUM> may calculate the moving average within a time period of <NUM> (or other time instances). Element <NUM> of the logic diagram may determine or calculate a percentage value of the nominal load of the genset <NUM>. For example, element <NUM> may calculate a value that corresponds to <NUM>% (or other percentages) of the nominal load of the genset <NUM>. The value calculated by element <NUM> can be used to identify or determine that the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a transient condition. Elements <NUM> and <NUM> of the logic diagram may determine or calculate a tolerance band (e.g., a range of values) around the moving average (e.g., calculated by element <NUM>). Element <NUM> may calculate the upper limit of the tolerance band by adding (or performing other operations) the <NUM>% of the nominal load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., calculated by element <NUM>) and the corresponding average value of the moving average (e.g., calculated by element <NUM>). Element <NUM> may determine the lower limit of the tolerance band by subtracting (or performing other operations) the <NUM>% of the nominal load of the genset <NUM> and the corresponding average value of the moving average. Elements <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may determine their respective values using one or more operations other than the ones shown in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may compare the values determined by elements <NUM> and <NUM> with the current value of the actual active power (e.g., the load of the genset <NUM>). Therefore, element <NUM> may determine or identify a transient change in the load of the genset <NUM>. For example, if the current value of the actual active power is outside of the range of values established by the tolerance band, element <NUM> may detect a transient change in the load of the genset <NUM>. If element <NUM> identifies the transient change, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may store the detection for a certain period of time (e.g., <NUM> seconds or other time instances). Storing the detection for the certain period of time may activate or enable the transient binary PID (e.g., the third binary PID <NUM>).

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may determine or verify whether the genset <NUM> has started operating from a hot start condition or a cold start condition. Cold starting a genset <NUM> generally includes starting a genset <NUM> that has a cold exhaust which has not been run for a predetermined time (e.g., greater than <NUM> hours) due to the genset <NUM> being shut down. Element <NUM> may determine the starting condition of the genset <NUM> (e.g., hot start or cold start) by monitoring or analyzing the outlet coolant temperature. For instance, if the outlet coolant temperature is above a certain temperature value (e.g., <NUM> or other values), element <NUM> may provide an output (e.g., a logical binary output of <NUM>). If the output of element <NUM> is continuously active for a certain time interval (e.g., <NUM> seconds or other time intervals), element <NUM> of the logic diagram may provide an output. Therefore, element <NUM> may ensure or confirm the outlet coolant temperature is above the certain temperature value (e.g., <NUM> or other values) for the duration established by the certain time interval (e.g., the engine <NUM> is "hot").

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may activate or inactive the transient binary PID (e.g., the third binary PID <NUM>). For example, element <NUM> may activate or enable the transient binary PID (e.g., element <NUM> of the logic diagram) if one or more conditions are met. The one or more conditions may include a "hot" engine <NUM> (e.g., using the output of element <NUM>), valid outlet coolant temperature measurements (e.g., failing to detect a sensor failure using element <NUM>), an active transient load condition (e.g., a load change of +/- <NUM>% of a nominal load) and/or a current application of the process <NUM> corresponding to an island application. Element <NUM> of the logic diagram may correspond to the transient binary PID (e.g., the third binary PID <NUM>). The output of element <NUM> may activate or enable element <NUM>. For example, if the one or more conditions are met, element <NUM> may activate the transient binary PID. In some embodiments, elements <NUM> and <NUM> of the logic diagram may provide or determine the target inlet coolant temperature used by the transient binary PID (e.g., element <NUM>) to adjust an operation of one or more valves <NUM>. Elements <NUM> and <NUM> may include or correspond to the interpolation calculator <NUM>.

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram can detect or determine whether the load of the genset <NUM> is above or below a predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>,<NUM> kW or other values). Using the result of the detection from element <NUM>, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may select a target inlet coolant temperature from between the target inlet coolant temperature calculated by element <NUM> and the target inlet coolant temperature calculated by element <NUM>. Element <NUM> may provide the selected target inlet coolant temperature to element <NUM> (e.g., the transient binary PID). Element <NUM> may use the selected target inlet coolant temperature provided by element <NUM> to adjust the operation of one or more valves <NUM> (e.g., regulate the outlet coolant temperature).

In some embodiments, elements <NUM> and <NUM> can monitor or analyze the inlet and outlet coolant temperature values provided by the control module <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>). If the one or more temperature sensors <NUM> fail to communicate accurate temperature values to the control module <NUM>, the control module <NUM> may provide, specify, or indicate inaccurate temperature values. Therefore, elements <NUM> and <NUM> may identify or determine whether the temperature values provided by the control module <NUM> are inaccurate (e.g., out of a predefined temperature range). If elements <NUM> and <NUM> determine the temperature values of the control module <NUM> are inaccurate, elements <NUM> and <NUM> may inform or notify element <NUM> of the result of the determination. Responsive to receiving a notification of inaccurate temperature values from elements <NUM> and <NUM>, element <NUM> may "freeze" or inactivate the PID loops. By inactivating the PID loops, element <NUM> can maintain the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> at their current operation (e.g., the last known position of the one or more valves <NUM>).

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may include or correspond to an analog PID (e.g., the second analog PID <NUM>). Element <NUM> may determine or calculate a target inlet coolant temperature based on the outlet coolant temperature and the target outlet coolant temperature. Element <NUM> of the logic diagram may activate or enable element <NUM>. Element <NUM> can activate or enable elements <NUM> and <NUM> of the logic diagram according to the outputs of elements <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For example, element <NUM> may enable elements <NUM> and <NUM> if the load of the genset <NUM> is above a predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>,<NUM> kW or other loads), the transient PID(s) (e.g., the third binary PID <NUM>) are inactive, and/or the temperature values provided by the one or more sensors <NUM> (e.g., the inlet and outlet coolant temperatures) are valid. In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may include or correspond to a binary PID (e.g., the second binary PID <NUM>). Element <NUM> may analyze or monitor the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., provided by element <NUM>) to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>. Responsive to adjusting the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>, element <NUM> may regulate the outlet coolant temperature. In some embodiments, element <NUM> may transform or convert the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., provided by element <NUM>) into the proper decimal values. Element <NUM> of the logic diagram can specify the transformed target inlet coolant temperature to element <NUM> (e.g., the binary PID).

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may provide one or more values of inlet coolant temperature as bias values to elements <NUM> and <NUM>. The bias values may include or correspond to the output values of elements <NUM> and <NUM> (e.g., target inlet coolant temperature values) when elements <NUM> and <NUM> (e.g., the analog PIDs) are inactive or disabled. In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may include or correspond to an analog PID (e.g., the first analog PID <NUM>). Element <NUM> may determine or calculate a target inlet coolant temperature based on the outlet coolant temperature and the target outlet coolant temperature. Element <NUM> of the logic diagram may activate or enable element <NUM>. Element <NUM> can activate or enable elements <NUM> and <NUM> of the logic diagram according to the outputs of elements <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For example, element <NUM> may enable elements <NUM> and <NUM> if the load of the genset <NUM> is below a predetermined load threshold value (e.g., <NUM>,<NUM> kW or other loads), the transient PID(s) are inactive, and/or the temperature values provided by the one or more sensors <NUM> are valid. In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may include or correspond to a binary PID (e.g., the first binary PID <NUM>). Element <NUM> may analyze or monitor the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., provided by element <NUM>) to adjust the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>. Responsive to adjusting the operation of the one or more valves <NUM>, element <NUM> may regulate the outlet coolant temperature.

In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may receive, monitor, or analyze one or more "close" commands or signals for the one or more valves <NUM>. Element <NUM> may receive or obtain the "close" command(s) from one or more PIDs (e.g., elements <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM>). In one example, element <NUM> may provide or transmit the received "close" signal(s) to the one or more valves <NUM>. Responsive to receiving the "close" signal(s), the one or more valves <NUM> may change or adjust the operation of the valve(s) <NUM> to "close" (e.g., closing one or more AMOT valves). In some embodiments, element <NUM> of the logic diagram may receive, monitor, or analyze one or more "open" commands or signals for the one or more valves <NUM>. Element <NUM> may receive or obtain the "open" command(s) from one or more PIDs (e.g., elements <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM>). In one example, element <NUM> may provide or transmit the received "open" signal(s) to the one or more valves <NUM>. Responsive to receiving the "open" signal(s), the one or more valves <NUM> may change or adjust the operation of the valve(s) <NUM> to "open" (e.g., opening one or more AMOT valves). In some embodiments, elements <NUM> and <NUM> of the logic diagram can monitor or analyze the output from elements <NUM> and <NUM>. Elements <NUM> and <NUM> may ensure the operation of the one or more valves <NUM> are not driven past a "fully closed" or a "fully open" operating condition.

<FIG> illustrates a graph <NUM> representing the fluctuations of the outlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM> in response to changes in the load of the genset <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. The graph <NUM> includes a y-axis indicating values for the outlet coolant temperature curve <NUM> (in units of Celsius), a y-axis indicating values for a low temperature (LT) inlet coolant temperature curve <NUM> (in units of Celsius), a y-axis indicating values for a power curve <NUM> (in units of kW), and an x-axis indicating time. The graph <NUM> illustrates the response of the outlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM> to changes in the load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., the load condition of the genset <NUM> is a transient condition). Points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the power curve <NUM> may indicate changes in the load of the genset <NUM>. In this exemplary embodiment, the outlet coolant temperature of the genset <NUM> can be regulated based on a determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature. During a transient condition (e.g., points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>), the target inlet coolant temperature can be determined without an interpolation calculator <NUM> (e.g., determined using a controller <NUM>). Therefore, the outlet coolant temperature may be regulated (e.g., during a transient condition) according to one or more target inlet coolant temperature values, wherein the target inlet coolant temperature values are determined without the interpolation calculator <NUM>. As a result, the changes in the load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or other points) may cause or trigger temperature overshoots or undershoots in the regulated outlet coolant temperature. For example, points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the outlet coolant temperature curve <NUM> may indicate the temperature overshoots and undershoots of the regulated outlet coolant temperature. The overshoots of the outlet coolant temperature can be caused by the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be unable to determine the target inlet coolant temperature until the load of the genset <NUM> is in a steady-state condition.

In some embodiments, the interpolation calculator <NUM> can be used to determine the target inlet coolant temperature during changes in the load of the genset <NUM> (e.g., a transitory condition with changes of at least + <NUM>% in the load). The outlet coolant temperature may be regulated using the determined target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., determined by the interpolation calculator <NUM>) and the inlet coolant temperature. By using the interpolation calculator <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature (e.g., during a transient condition, such as points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>), the interpolation calculator <NUM> may prevent the temperature overshoots and undershoots illustrated in the outlet coolant temperature curve <NUM> (e.g., points <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>). The interpolation calculator <NUM> (or other components of the generator system <NUM>) may analyze the load of the genset <NUM> to detect changes in the load (e.g., a transient condition). Responsive to detecting the changes, the interpolation calculator <NUM> may use the actual load <NUM> of the genset <NUM> to determine the target inlet coolant temperature. The target inlet coolant temperature determined by the interpolation calculator <NUM> can be used to regulate the outlet coolant temperature during a transient condition, thereby preventing changes, oscillations, or fluctuations in the regulated outlet coolant temperature.

As noted above, embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable storage media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable storage media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable storage media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a computing device or machine to perform a certain function or group of functions. Machine or computer-readable storage media, as referenced herein, do not include transitory media (i.e., signals in space).

Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the general context of method steps which may be implemented in one embodiment by a program product including machine-executable instructions, such as program code, for example, in the form of program modules executed by machines in networked environments. Machine-executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of program code for executing steps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of such executable instructions or associated data structures represent examples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions described in such steps.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers having processors. Logical connections may include a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN) that are presented here by way of example and not limitation. Such networking environments are commonplace in office-wide or enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and the Internet and may use a wide variety of different communication protocols. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such network computing environments will typically encompass many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, hand-held devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, servers, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Embodiments of the disclosure may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices that are linked (either by hardwired links, wireless links, or by a combination of hardwired or wireless links) through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

An exemplary system for implementing the overall system or portions of the disclosure might include a computing device that includes, for example, a processing unit, a system memory, and a system bus that couples various system components including the system memory to the processing unit. The system memory may include read only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM) or other non-transitory storage medium. The computer may also include a magnetic hard disk drive for reading from and writing to a magnetic hard disk, a magnetic disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable magnetic disk, and an optical disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable optical disk such as a CD ROM or other optical media. The drives and their associated machine-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of machine-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the computer.

Claim 1:
A method (<NUM>) of regulating an outlet coolant temperature (<NUM>) of a genset (<NUM>) and an inlet coolant temperature (<NUM>) of the genset (<NUM>), the genset (<NUM>) comprising an engine (<NUM>), a generator (<NUM>), and at least one controller (<NUM>), the method (<NUM>) comprising:
determining (<NUM>) a load condition of the genset (<NUM>);
selecting (<NUM>) an operating mode from between a first mode associated with a first load condition and a second mode associated with a second load condition responsive to determining the load condition of the genset (<NUM>), wherein the first mode and the second mode are configured to determine a target inlet coolant temperature using one or more control loops;
determining (<NUM>), using the selected operating mode, the target inlet coolant temperature using a target outlet coolant temperature (<NUM>) and the outlet coolant temperature (<NUM>); and
regulating (<NUM>) the outlet coolant temperature (<NUM>) based on the determined target inlet coolant temperature and the inlet coolant temperature (<NUM>) by adjusting an operation of one or more coolant valves (<NUM>).