Patent Description:
A transport climate control system is generally used to control environmental condition(s) (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, and the like) within a climate controlled space of a transport unit (e.g., a truck, a container (such as a container on a flat car, an intermodal container, etc.), a box car, a semi-tractor, a bus, or other similar transport unit). The transport climate control system can include, for example, a transport refrigeration system (TRS) and/or a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The TRS can control environmental condition(s) within the climate controlled space to maintain cargo (e.g., produce, frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, etc.). The HVAC system can control environmental conditions(s) within the climate controlled space to provide passenger comfort for passengers travelling in the transport unit. In some transport units, the transport climate control system can be installed externally (e.g., on a rooftop of the transport unit, on a front wall of the transport unit, etc.).

The transport climate control system can include a climate control circuit with a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. A working fluid can include a refrigerant that can be compressed and expanded as it flows through the climate control circuit and can be used to heat and/or cool the particular space.

<CIT> describes a heat source apparatus including an electric compressor that is driven by an inverter device and that compresses a refrigerant, the inverter device having a protective function that performs stoppage for device protection on the basis of a predetermined calculation by an inverter control portion. The heat source apparatus also includes a control device that controls cold output and/or heat output. The control device includes an inverter-protective-function estimating unit that estimates a calculation result of the protective function of the inverter control portion.

<CIT> describes a distributed energy resource (DER) configured to store electrical power from an AC circuit and discharge stored electrical power to the AC circuit. The DER may be coupled to the AC circuit via a plug inserted into a receptacle coupled to the AC circuit, and a load device may be plugged into the DER via a receptacle of the DER. The DER may pass AC power from the AC circuit to the load device, and may draw additional power from the AC circuit to charge an energy storage circuit of the DER. The DER may also discharge stored energy into the AC circuit and/or power the load device directly.

<CIT> describes a commercial refrigeration system having a control system which distributes intelligence to increase granularity of the control and simplify wiring, assembly and installation. Compressors of the refrigeration system each have a bus compatible compressor safety and control module including a processor and sensors. All control and safety modules communicate over a single power and communications line with a controller, providing digital transmissions to the controller of measurements taken by the sensors. The control and safety modules are capable of executing commands from the controller to cycle the compressors. The control and safety modules preferably contain sufficient intelligence to continue system operation upon failure of the controller. A compressor is also described which has an intelligent control and safety module.

The embodiments described herein are generally directed to feedthrough protection and overcurrent protection of a sealed compressor used in a transport climate control system ("TCCS").

In particular, the embodiments described herein can prevent melting of a sealed compressor's sealed electrical feedthrough in TCCS.

Transport units can have a climate controlled space for cargo or passengers that is provided climate control (for controlling e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) by a climate control circuit of a transport climate control system. The climate control circuit can utilize a working fluid and can include a sealed compressor for compressing the working fluid. The sealed compressor can include a sealed electrical feedthrough for supplying electrical power to an electrical motor of the sealed compressor. Minimizing operation that can cause melting of the sealed electrical feedthrough may be desirable to prevent rupture (e.g., a blowout, etc.) of the sealed electrical feedthrough's potting.

According to the invention, there is provided a method according to independent claim <NUM>; and a transport climate control system according to claim <NUM>.

Disclosed embodiments are capable of operating the TCCS to minimize operating in conditions that can cause heating sufficient to melt the sealed electrical feedthrough's potting. Disclosed embodiments can, for example, adjust operation of the TCCS to stop operation of the sealed electrical feedthrough in conditions that can cause heating sufficient to melt the sealed electrical feedthrough. The disclosed embodiments can, for example, further open an EEV and/or interrupt the flow of electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough.

According to the invention, a method of feedthrough protection and overcurrent protection of a sealed compressor used in a TCCS that provides climate control within a climate controlled space of a transport unit is provided. The TCCS includes a climate control circuit with the sealed compressor. The sealed compressor includes an outer housing and an electrical motor within the outer housing. The method includes operating the sealed compressor to compress a working fluid by supplying electrical power to the electric motor of the sealed compressor via a sealed electrical feedthrough in the outer housing of the sealed compressor. The method also includes detecting an operating parameter of the sealed electrical feedthrough. Also, the method includes determining whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition based on the detected operating parameter. Further, the method includes adjusting operation of the climate control circuit upon determining that the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition until the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in the melting condition.

In an embodiment, detecting the operating parameter includes detecting an amperage of the electrical power supplied to the sealed electrical feedthrough. Also, determining whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition includes comparing the detected amperage of the electrical power to a predetermined amperage draw limit. A "melting" condition is an operating condition of the sealed electrical feedthrough that can cause or lead to the melting of the sealed electrical feedthrough. For example, the sealed electrical feedthrough being in the "melting" condition can indicate that the sealed electrical feedthrough is moving towards and/or in danger of reaching condition(s) that cause heating and melting of the sealed electrical feedthrough.

In an embodiment, supplying the electrical power to the electric motor includes supplying the electrical power from an electrical power source of the TCCS to the sealed electrical feedthrough via an electrical disconnecter. Also, adjusting operation of the climate control circuit includes opening the electrical disconnecter to interrupt the electrical power from the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough.

In an embodiment, supplying the electrical power from the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough via the electrical disconnecter includes converting, via an inverter, the electrical power supplied from the electrical power source from direct current to alternating current.

In an embodiment, supplying electrical power to the electric motor via the sealed electrical feedthrough includes supplying the electrical power from an electrical power source of the TCCS to the sealed electrical feedthrough via a contactor. Also, detecting the operating parameter of the sealed electrical feedthrough includes detecting a positional status of the contactor, the positional status of the contactor corresponding with an amperage of the electrical power supplied through the sealed electrical feedthrough.

In an embodiment, detecting the operating parameter includes detecting a suction pressure of the sealed compressor. Also, determining whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition includes comparing the detected suction pressure to a predetermined suction pressure threshold.

In an embodiment, an internal space of the outer housing along the sealed electrical feedthrough is below atmospheric pressure when the suction pressure of the sealed compressor is below the predetermined suction pressure threshold.

In an embodiment, adjusting operation of the climate control circuit includes further opening an electronic expansion valve ("EEV") of the climate control circuit.

In an embodiment, the further opening of the EEV decreases conditioning provided by the climate control circuit to a climate controlled space of the transport unit.

In an embodiment, the method also includes operating the climate control circuit to provide conditioning for the climate controlled space of the transport unit based on a temperature setpoint for the climate controlled space. Operating the climate control circuit to provide the conditioning includes the operating the sealed compressor to compress the working fluid, and adjusting an electronic expansion valve ("EEV") of the climate control circuit to a first valve position based on a temperature of the working fluid. Also, the adjusting operation of the climate control circuit includes further opening the EEV to a second valve position different from the first valve position.

In an embodiment, the operating parameter of the electrical feedthrough is not for the startup sequence of the sealed compressor.

In an embodiment, the working fluid includes a flammable refrigerant. In an embodiment, the sealed compressor is at least one of a hermetic compressor and a semi-hermetic compressor.

According to the invention, a TCCS for providing climate control within a climate controlled space of a transport unit is provided. The TCCS includes a climate control circuit. The climate control circuit includes a sealed compressor to compress a working fluid. The sealed compressor includes an outer housing, an electric motor within the outer housing, and a sealed electrical feedthrough in the outer housing. The climate control circuit also includes a condenser to cool the working fluid, an expansion valve to expand the working fluid, and an evaporator to heat the working fluid. The TCCS also includes an electrical power source and a climate controller. The climate controller is configured to operate the climate control circuit to provide conditioning to the climate controlled space of the transport unit, which includes electrical power being supplied from the electrical power source to the electric motor via the sealed electrical feedthrough. The climate controller is also configured to detect an operating parameters of the sealed electrical feedthrough, determine whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition based on the detected operating parameter, and adjust operation of the climate control circuit when the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition until the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in the melting condition.

In an embodiment, the climate controller is also configured to detect an amperage of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough, in order to detect the operating parameter of the sealed electrical feedthrough, and determine that the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition based on comparing the detected amperage of the electrical power to a predetermined amperage draw limit.

In an embodiment, the TCCS also includes an electrical disconnecter electrically connecting the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough. The climate controller is configured to open the electrical disconnecter to interrupt the electrical power supplied to the electrical motor via the sealed electrical feedthrough in order to adjust operation of the climate control circuit such that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in the melting condition.

In an embodiment, the TCCS also includes a contactor electrically connecting the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough. Also, the climate controller is configured to detect a positional status of the contactor, the positional status of the contactor corresponding with an amperage of the electrical power supplied through the sealed electrical feedthrough in order to detect one or more operating parameters of the sealed electrical feedthrough.

In an embodiment, the climate controller is also configured to detect a suction pressure of the sealed compressor in order to detect the operating parameter, and determine that the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition based on comparing the detected suction pressure to a predetermined suction pressure threshold.

In an embodiment, the expansion valve is an electronic expansion valve ("EEV"), and the climate controller is configured to further open the electronic in order to adjust operation of the climate control circuit such that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in the melting condition.

In an embodiment, the sealed compressor is a hermetic compressor or a semi-hermetic compressor.

Both described and other features, aspects, and advantages of transport climate control systems and methods of operating climate control systems will be better understood with the following drawings:.

Like reference characters refer to similar features.

In particular, the embodiments described herein can prevent melting of a compressor's sealed electrical feedthrough in a TCCS.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice what is claimed, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized without departing from the scope of the claims. The following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, therefore, are not to be taken in a finite sense.

Different types of goods/cargo may need to be stored at specific environmental condition(s) while being stored within a transport unit. For example, perishable goods may need to be stored within a specific temperature range to prevent spoilage and liquid goods may need to be kept at a temperature above their freezing point. Also, goods having electronic components may need to be kept in environmental conditions with a lower moisture content to avoid damage to their electronic components. Passengers traveling in the transport unit may need to be kept in a climate controlled space with specific environmental condition(s) to ensure their comfort while traveling. For example, the climate controlled space containing the passengers should be at a temperature that is generally comfortable for passengers. A transport climate control system may HSML Ref.: <NUM>. 0991US01 blow conditioned air into the climate controlled space of the transport unit to keep the air within the climate controlled space at the desired environmental conditions.

A TCCS according to the invention includes a climate control system with a compressor for compressing working fluid containing refrigerant. The compressor is a sealed compressor, such as a hermetic or a semi-hermetic compressor, and contains an electrical motor within its sealed outer housing. For example, the sealed compressor can help prevent leakage of working fluid. A hermetic compressor is formed with a housing configured to be permanently sealed (e.g., housing is sealed shut by being completely welded shut, etc.). A semi-hermetic compressor is formed with a housing configured to be sealed shut for its operation while still being openable for maintenance, cleaning, etc. (e.g., housing is sealed shut with seal(s) and removable bolts, etc.). The sealed compressor includes a sealed electrical feedthrough in its sealed outer housing and is used to supply electrical power to the electrical motor. However, various operations of the compressor can lead to and heating of the sealed electrical feedthrough to temperatures that causes melting and the eventual structural failure (e.g., blowout, etc.) of the sealed electrical feedthrough. This can allow, for example, leaking of refrigerant in the working fluid into the surrounding environment and cause the surrounding environment to become dangerous (e.g., leaking flammable refrigerant making the surrounding environment flammable).

The embodiments described herein are generally directed to limiting operation that can cause melting of a compressor's sealed electrical feedthrough in a transport climate control system ("TCCS"). The transport climate control system includes a climate control circuit with a compressor for compressing a working fluid. The climate control circuit is configured to provide conditioning (for controlling e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) to a climate controlled space. The TCCS includes a climate controller for controlling the climate control circuit. For example, the climate controller can be configured to adjust operation of the climate control circuit to minimize operation that can cause heating and melting of the sealed electrical feedthrough. This can advantageously prevent weakening and accidental rupture of the sealed electrical feedthrough.

<FIG> illustrates one embodiment of a climate controlled transport unit <NUM> attached to a tractor <NUM>. The climate controlled transport unit <NUM> includes a transport unit <NUM> and a transport climate control system ("TCCS") <NUM> for the transport unit <NUM>. Dashed lines are used in <FIG> to illustrate features that would not be visible in the view shown. The transport unit <NUM> may be attached to the tractor <NUM> that is configured to tow the transport unit <NUM> to and from different locations. When not being transported, the transport unit <NUM> may be parked and unattached from the tractor <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the embodiments described herein are not limited to tractor and trailer units, but can apply to any type of transport unit such as a container (e.g., a container on a flat car, an intermodal container, etc.), a truck, a box car, a commercial passenger vehicle (e.g., school bus, railway car, subway car, etc.), or other similar transport unit.

The TCCS <NUM> includes a climate control unit ("CCU") <NUM> that provides environmental control (e.g. temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a climate controlled space <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM>. The climate controlled space <NUM> is an internal space of the transport unit <NUM>. The CCU <NUM> provides conditioned air into the climate controlled space <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM> to provide a desired conditioned environment for the goods being held within the climate controlled space <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM>. The desired conditioned environment for the climate controlled space <NUM> can have one or more desired environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.). For example, the CCU <NUM> may provide cooled air to the climate controlled space <NUM> when perishable goods are being kept within the transport unit <NUM>. In another example, the CCU <NUM> may dehumidify the air within the climate controlled space <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM> when electronics are within the transport unit <NUM>. The CCU <NUM> includes a climate control circuit (e.g., see <FIG>, etc.) for providing conditioned air to the climate controlled space <NUM>.

The CCU <NUM> is disposed on a front wall <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM>. In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the CCU <NUM> can be disposed, for example, on a roof <NUM> or another wall of the transport unit <NUM>. The climate controlled transport unit <NUM> can include a battery (not shown), an internal combustion engine (not shown), or a both as a power source. The TCCS <NUM> may be a hybrid power system that uses a combination of battery power and engine power or an electric power system that does not include or rely upon an internal combustion engine of the TCCS <NUM> or the tractor <NUM> for power.

The TCCS <NUM> also includes a programmable climate controller <NUM> and one or more sensors <NUM>. The sensor(s) <NUM> are configured to measure one or more parameters of the climate controlled transport unit <NUM> (e.g., an ambient temperature and/or ambient humidity outside of the transport unit <NUM>, a compressor suction pressure, a compressor discharge pressure, a temperature of air supplied into the climate controlled space <NUM> by the CCU <NUM>, a temperature of air returning from the climate controlled space <NUM> to the CCU <NUM>, a humidity within the climate controlled space <NUM>, etc.) and communicate parameter data to the climate controller <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> is configured to control operation of the TCCS <NUM> including components of the climate control circuit. The climate controller <NUM> may be a single integrated control unit <NUM> or a control unit formed by a distributed network of climate controller elements <NUM>, <NUM>. The number of distributed control elements in a given network can depend upon the particular application of the principles described herein.

<FIG> is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a TCCS <NUM>. The TCCS can be a TCCS of a climate controlled transport unit (e.g., the TCCS <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.). The TCCS includes a climate control circuit <NUM>. The climate control circuit <NUM> can be utilized to control environmental condition(s) (for controlling e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) of the climate controlled space of a transport unit (e.g., climate controlled space <NUM> of transport unit <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.).

The climate control circuit <NUM> includes a compressor <NUM>, a condenser <NUM>, an expansion valve <NUM>, and an evaporator <NUM>. In an embodiment, the climate control circuit <NUM> can be modified to include additional components, such as, for example, one or more additional valve(s), sensor(s), a distributor, an accumulator tank, a filter drier, a receiver tank, an overflow tank, etc. In an embodiment, the climate control circuit <NUM> can be disposed in a CCU of the TCCS <NUM> (e.g., in the CCU <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.).

Operation of the climate control circuit <NUM> is controlled by a programmable climate controller <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> is configured to detect various operating parameters of the climate control circuit <NUM>. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can use one or more sensor(s) (e.g.; sensors <NUM> in <FIG>, current sensor <NUM>, suction pressure sensor <NUM>, etc.) for detecting one or more operating parameters of the TCCS <NUM> and its climate control circuit <NUM>. In an embodiment, the climate controller <NUM> includes a memory (not shown) for storing information and a processor (not shown). The climate controller <NUM> is configured to control operation of the TCCS <NUM> and its components. The climate controller <NUM> is shown in <FIG> as a single integrated control unit. However, it will be appreciated that the climate controller <NUM> in an embodiment may a single integrated control unit or a distributed network of climate controller elements (e.g., distributed network of climate controller elements <NUM>, <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.).

The components of the climate control circuit <NUM> are fluidly connected. Dotted lines are provided in <FIG> to indicate fluid flows through various components (e.g., compressor <NUM>, condenser <NUM>, evaporator <NUM>) for clarity, and should be understood as not specifying a particular route within each component. Dashed lines are provided in <FIG> and <FIG> to indicate optional features in some embodiments. Dashed dotted lines are provided in <FIG> to illustrate electronic communications between different components. For example, a dashed dotted line extends from the climate controller <NUM> to the inverter <NUM> as the climate controller <NUM> is configured to control the inverter <NUM>. Short dashed lines are provided in <FIG> and <FIG> to indicate flows of electrical power between components. For example, the electrical power source <NUM> supplies electrical power to the inverter <NUM>.

A working fluid flows through climate control circuit <NUM>. The working fluid includes refrigerant. The refrigerant in the working fluid can be a non-flammable refrigerant or a flammable refrigerant. For example, flammable refrigerant can be a single refrigerant or a refrigerant blend (e.g., a combination of two or more refrigerants) that classifies as A2L - B3 under ASHRAE Standard <NUM> (e.g., ASHRAE Standard <NUM>-<NUM>). For example, non-flammable refrigerant can be a single refrigerant or refrigerant blend that classifies as A1 or B1 under ASHRAE Standard <NUM>. In an embodiment, the working fluid includes at least one flammable refrigerant. In an embodiment, the refrigerant of the working fluid includes one or more refrigerants that classify as A2L. For example, the refrigerant can be a single refrigerant or a refrigerant blend that classifies as an A2L refrigerant under ASHRAE Standard <NUM>. It should be noted that a working fluid can also include non-refrigerant components. For example, non-refrigerant components can be, but not limited to, lubricants, impurities, refrigeration system additives, tracers, ultraviolet dyes, and solubilizing agents. In general, these additional components are present in small concentrations relative to the refrigerant(s) in the working fluid.

In an embodiment, the climate control circuit <NUM> is configured to operate in a cooling mode to provide conditioned air (e.g., cooled air) to the climate controlled space. Flow of the working fluid through the climate control circuit <NUM> in the cooling mode when operating normally (e.g., no adjustment(s) being made to avoid the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> being in a melting condition, etc.) is described below. Generally, when operating in a cooling mode, the flow path in the climate control circuit <NUM> for the working fluid is from the compressor <NUM> to the condenser <NUM>, from the condenser <NUM> to the expansion valve <NUM>, from the expansion valve <NUM> to the evaporator <NUM>, and from the evaporator <NUM> back to the compressor <NUM>.

Beginning at the compressor <NUM>, the compressor <NUM> includes an outer housing <NUM> with a suction port <NUM>, a discharge port <NUM>, and a sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>. The compressor <NUM> is a sealed compressor in which the outer housing <NUM> is a sealed housing. In an embodiment, the sealed compressor <NUM> is a hermetic compressor or a semi-hermetic compressor. The compressor <NUM> includes an electrical motor <NUM> and a compression mechanism (not shown) (e.g., one or more rotatable/orbitable scroll(s), piston(s), screw(s), etc.) disposed within its sealed outer housing <NUM>. The outer housing <NUM> is configured to fluidly seal the internal components of compressor <NUM> (e.g., the electrical motor <NUM>, its compression mechanism, etc.) from the outside environment (e.g., external air, etc.) while allowing the working fluid to flow into/out of the outer housing <NUM> (e.g., through the suction port <NUM>, the discharge port <NUM>, etc.). For example, the outer housing <NUM> is fluidly sealed except for its ports for the climate control circuit <NUM> (e.g., the suction port <NUM>, the discharge port <NUM>, etc.). When supplied with electrical power, the electrical motor <NUM> converts the electrical power to mechanical power that drives the compression mechanism and compresses the working fluid. The electrical power is provided through the sealed outer housing <NUM> via the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> in the sealed outer housing <NUM>. The sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is discussed in more detail below.

Working fluid in a lower pressure gaseous state or mostly gaseous state is suctioned into the compressor <NUM> via its suction port <NUM>. The working fluid is compressed as it flows through the compressor <NUM>. Operation of the electrical motor <NUM> causes the compression of the working fluid (e.g., operation of the electrical motor <NUM> drives the compression mechanism to compress the working fluid, etc.). Compressed working fluid is discharged from the compressor <NUM> via its discharge port <NUM> and flows to the condenser <NUM>.

The condenser <NUM> cools the compressed working fluid as it passes through the condenser <NUM>. A first process fluid PF<NUM> flows through the condenser <NUM> separate from the working fluid. The first process fluid PF<NUM> can be ambient air (e.g., air from outside the transport unit <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.), an intermediate fluid (e.g., a solution including water, glycol, etc.) cooled by ambient air, or the like. The condenser <NUM> is a heat exchanger that allows the working fluid and the first process fluid PF<NUM> to be in a heat transfer relationship without physically mixing as they each flow through the condenser <NUM>. As the working fluid flows through the condenser <NUM>, the first process fluid PF<NUM> absorbs heat from the working fluid and cools the working fluid. The working fluid is cooled by the condenser <NUM> and becomes liquid or mostly liquid as it passes through the condenser <NUM>. The cooled working fluid flows from the condenser <NUM> to the expansion valve <NUM>.

The expansion valve <NUM> expands the cooled working fluid from the condenser <NUM> as it passes therethrough. The expansion causes the working fluid to decrease in temperature. The expanded working fluid is in a two-phase gaseous/liquid phase. The expanded gaseous/liquid working fluid flows from the expansion valve <NUM> to the evaporator <NUM>. In an embodiment, the expansion valve <NUM> is an electronic expansion valve ("EEV") with an opening that is adjustable to change the amount of working fluid flowing through the expansion valve <NUM>. During normal operation (e.g., providing conditioning, no adjustment for a melting condition of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>), the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to control the opening of the EEV <NUM> based on the superheat of the working fluid after passing through the evaporator <NUM>. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to control the opening of the EEV <NUM> (e.g., select its open valve position) such that the temperature T<NUM> of the heated working fluid is at or about a target temperature/range. The target temperature/range can correspond with the predetermined amount/range of the superheat.

The evaporator <NUM> heats the expanded working fluid expanded as it passes through the evaporator <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a second process fluid PF<NUM> separate from the working fluid conditions (e.g., cools, heats, etc.) the climate controlled space. For example, the second process fluid PF<NUM> can be air from the climate controlled space that is circulated through the evaporator <NUM> and back to the climate controlled space to cool the climate controlled space. The second process fluid PF<NUM> can be an intermediate fluid (e.g., a solution including water, glycol, etc.) used to condition the air of the climate controlled space. The evaporator <NUM> is a heat exchanger that allows the working fluid and the second process fluid PF<NUM> to be in a heat transfer relationship without physically mixing as they each flow through the evaporator <NUM>. As the working fluid flows through the evaporator <NUM>, the working fluid absorbs heat from the air and cools the second process fluid PF<NUM>. The working fluid is heated by the evaporator <NUM> and becomes gaseous or mostly gaseous as it passes through the evaporator <NUM>. The heated working fluid flows from the evaporator <NUM> back to the suction port <NUM> compressor <NUM>.

The TCCS <NUM> includes an electrical power system <NUM> that supplies electrical power to the electrical motor <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>. The electrical power system <NUM> can include an electrical power source <NUM>, an inverter <NUM>, and an electrical disconnecter <NUM>. The electrical power source <NUM> provides the electrical power for powering the electrical motor <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>. For example, the electrical power source <NUM> can supply the electrical power to the motor <NUM> via at least the electrical disconnecter <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electrical power supplied from the electrical power source <NUM> may be direct current (DC) electrical power. The electrical power source <NUM> can supply direct current (DC) to the inverter <NUM> that converts the DC power into AC power. In an embodiment, the electrical power source <NUM> can include a battery <NUM> that provides the electrical power for powering the motor <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electrical power source <NUM> may also include an internal combustion engine 166A and electric generator 166B as a local power source. The internal combustion engine 166A and electric generator 166B may be provided in the TCCS <NUM> (e.g., located in the CCU <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.) and/or in a vehicle that hauls the transport unit of the TCCS <NUM> (e.g., the tractor <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.). In an embodiment, the internal combustion engine 166A and electric generator 166B can be used for charging the battery <NUM> during transport. For example, the battery <NUM> is the primary power source of the motor <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>. In other embodiments, TCCS <NUM> may be a pure electrical system (e.g., does not utilize an internal combustion engine 166A) that relies upon utility power for charging the battery <NUM>.

The inverter <NUM> converts the DC power supplied from the electrical power source <NUM> (e.g., from the battery <NUM>) into alternating current (AC) which is supplied to the motor <NUM>. The compressor <NUM> can be a multi-speed compressor in which the motor <NUM> is a variable speed motor. The frequency of the AC supplied to the motor <NUM> controls the speed at which the motor <NUM> operates. The climate controller <NUM> is configured to control the speed of the motor <NUM> by controlling the output frequency of the inverter <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> controls the inverter <NUM> to control the speed of the motor <NUM> (e.g., to change the speed of the motor <NUM>, etc.). The speed of the compressor <NUM> may be selected based on the amount of conditioning desired for the climate control circuit <NUM> (e.g., the climate controller <NUM> operating the compressor <NUM> at a higher speed when there is a higher cooling/heating demand for the climate controlled space).

As shown in <FIG>, the electrical power flows through an electrical disconnecter <NUM> to reach the compressor <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> is configured to operate the electrical disconnecter <NUM> based on the amperage being supplied to the compressor <NUM>. The electrical disconnecter <NUM> has an on position and an off position. In the on position, the electrical power flows from the electrical disconnecter <NUM> to the compressor <NUM>. In the off position, the electrical disconnecter <NUM> is open such that the electrical power (e.g., each current of the electrical power, etc.) does not flow through the electrical disconnecter <NUM> (e.g., no electrical power is supplied to the compressor <NUM> or its motor <NUM>). The climate controller <NUM> is configured to control the position of the electrical disconnecter <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electrical power is multi-phase power and the electrical disconnector <NUM> in the off position will interrupt the flow of electrical power for all currents of the multi-phase power.

In an embodiment, the electrical disconnecter <NUM> may be a contactor having a contact position POS. For example, the contact position POS is a position of a contact (not shown) in the contactor. The contact position POS corresponds with the amperage I<NUM> of the electric power flowing through the contactor as the amperage I<NUM> through the contactor changes the contract position POS. The climate controller <NUM> can be configured to determine the amperage I<NUM> of the electric current flowing through the contactor and to the compressor <NUM> using the contact position POS. In an embodiment, the climate controller <NUM> may detect the positional status POS by a contactor positional status POS signal transmitted from the contactor to the climate controller <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electrical power is multi-phase power and the contactor has a contact for each current in the multi-phase power. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect the contact position and determine the amperage for each current in the multi-phase power.

In an embodiment, the climate controller <NUM> is connected to an HMI <NUM> and a telematics unit <NUM>. The HMI <NUM> allows the climate controller <NUM> to display a warning to an operator of the climate controlled transport unit (e.g., the climate controlled transport unit <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.) of the TCCS <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the TCCS <NUM> can include the HMI <NUM>. For example, the CCU of the TCCS <NUM> (e.g., the CCU <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.) may include the HMI <NUM>. In another embodiment, a vehicle for towing the transport unit of the TCCS (e.g., the tractor <NUM> in <FIG>, etc.) can include the HMI <NUM>. The telematics unit <NUM> allows the climate controller <NUM> to wirelessly communicate a warning to a remote device (not shown) (e.g., a computer, a server, a server network, etc.).

In some embodiments, the TCCS <NUM> can include a current sensor <NUM> that measures the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power supplied to the compressor <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect, via the current sensor <NUM>, the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power supplied to the compressor <NUM>. The electrical disconnecter <NUM> may be an interrupter breaker, switch, relay, contactor, etc. operated by the controller <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> can be configured to operate the electrical disconnecter <NUM> based on the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power supplied to the compressor <NUM>. The current sensor <NUM> measures the electrical power supplied by the inverter <NUM> to the compressor <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the current sensor <NUM> measures the electrical power between the electrical disconnecter <NUM> and the compressor <NUM>. In other embodiments, the current sensor <NUM> may be disposed to measure the electrical power between the inverter <NUM> and the electrical disconnecter <NUM>. In an embodiment, the current sensor <NUM> may be incorporated into the electrical disconnecter <NUM> or the inverter <NUM>.

The compressor <NUM> includes the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> in its outer housing <NUM>. The sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> directs the electrical power for the electrical motor <NUM> through the outer housing <NUM> of the compressor <NUM> while retaining the hermetic sealing of the compressor <NUM> (e.g., the hermetic sealing of its outer housing <NUM>, etc.). For example, the working fluid within the compressor <NUM> is unable to pass through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a schematic cross section of the electrical feedthrough <NUM> in the compressor <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> shows a front view of the electrical feedthrough <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> passes the electrical power through the outer housing <NUM> while maintaining the seal of the outer housing <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> includes electrical pins <NUM>, potting <NUM>, and an outer ring <NUM>. The sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> extends through a port <NUM> in the housing <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>. The sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> fluidly seals the port <NUM> such the compressor <NUM> remains hermetically sealed (e.g., does not allow gaseous refrigerant of the working fluid to pass through the port <NUM>, etc.). The outer ring <NUM> of the electrical feedthrough <NUM> is affixed to the housing <NUM> so as to seal the port <NUM>. For example, the outer ring <NUM> can be a metal ring welded to the housing <NUM>.

The electrical pins <NUM> each extend through the potting <NUM> to the sealed internal space <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>. Each electrical pin <NUM> provides an electrical conduit through the sealed outer housing <NUM>. The electrical current(s) of the electrical power for the motor <NUM> flow through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> through a respective one of the electrical pins <NUM>. For example, each pin <NUM> has an exterior end connected to the power source <NUM> (e.g., via the electrical disconnecter in <FIG>, etc.) and interior end connected to the motor <NUM>. The electrical feedthrough <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG> has three electrical pins <NUM> for conducting each phase of three-phase AC. However, it should be appreciated that the electrical feedthrough <NUM> can have a different number of electrical pins <NUM> than three based configuration of the compressor <NUM> (e.g., the type of power for the motor <NUM>). In other embodiments, the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> can include one or more electrical pins <NUM>. For example, the electrical feedthrough <NUM> in an embodiment may have a single electrical pin <NUM> electrical power to the electrical motor <NUM> (e.g., a motor configured to utilize DC electrical power or single phase electrical power, etc.). For example, the electrical feedthrough <NUM> in an embodiment may include more than <NUM> electrical pins <NUM> (e.g., include additional electrical pin(s) <NUM> for supplying separate electrical power/connections into the compressor <NUM>, etc.).

The potting <NUM> fills and seals the internal space of the outer ring <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the potting <NUM> is provided between the outer ring <NUM> and each of the electrical pins <NUM>, and in-between the electrical pins <NUM>. For example, the potting <NUM> can hold each of the electrical pins <NUM> in place within the outer ring <NUM>. The potting <NUM> forms the internal seal of the outer ring <NUM> (e.g., prevents working fluid, external air, etc. from passing through the outer ring <NUM>, etc.). The potting <NUM> is an electrically insulating polymer (e.g., a non-electrically conductive polymer, an electrically insulating epoxy, etc.) that is solid at room temperature. The electrical pins <NUM> are made of an electrically conductive material (e.g., metal, metalloid, etc.).

The electrical insulating potting of the sealed electrical feedthrough can melt if heated to its melting point (e.g., if heated to the melting point of the electrically insulating polymer). Melting of the potting (e.g., melting at least a portion of the potting) degrades its structural integrity. Heating sufficient to melt the potting can weaken structural integrity of the sealed electrical feedthrough. The pressure of the compressed working fluid (e.g., a discharge pressure of the compressor, etc.) can rupture the weakened sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., break the sealing of the potting, blowout the potting and/or the electrical pins <NUM>, etc.). Working fluid can then leak from the compressor into its external environment (e.g., into an internal space of the CCU) through the ruptured electrical feedthrough. For example, a ruptured electrical feedthrough can allow a flammable refrigerant to leak and cause an external environment of the compressor to become a flammable environment.

In many configurations, the sealed electrical feedthrough is disposed in the suction side of compressor (e.g., extends into a portion of the sealed outer housing's internal volume that is upstream of the compressor's compression mechanism, that contains the pre-compressed working fluid, and is generally at a suction pressure, etc.). When the compressor <NUM> is operating such that the suction pressure at the suction side of the compressor is in a vacuum condition, the sealed electrical feedthrough increases electrical charge buildup at the sealed electrical feedthrough, which increases the potential/occurrence of arcing at the electrical pin(s) (e.g., between its electrical pins, from its electrical pin(s), etc.). The specific amount of pressure (e.g., how much below atmospheric pressure) that causes increased potential/occurrence of arcing can vary based on the configuration of the compressor. The electrical arcing can heat the electrical pin(s) which then heat the potting. The electrical arcing can heat and melt the potting (e.g., heats at least a portion of the potting to its melting point). Discharge pressures of the compressor can then rupture the weakened sealed electrical feedthrough as similarly discussed above. For example, improper servicing, a software malfunction, and/or a hardware malfunction in the refrigerant system can cause the discharge pressure to be applied to the suction side of the compressor.

Various electrical and mechanical issues can cause an electrical motor to draw an increased amperage sufficient to heat and melt the potting. For example, electrical shorts and/or the electrical motor/compressor having a locked rotor can cause the electrical motor to draw a higher amount of amperage. Higher amperage through the pin(s) of the electrical feedthrough can cause resistive heating of the electrical pin(s) that heats and melts the potting (e.g., heats at least a portion of the potting to its melting point). Discharge pressures of the compressor can then blowout the potting.

Such electrical shorts occur within the compressor. For example, the electrical shorts that can cause increased amperage sufficient to heat and melt the potting can occur at the sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., arcing at the electrical pin(s), etc.), between the sealed electrical feedthrough and the electrical motor, and/or within the electrical motor (e.g., in the windings of the electrical motor, etc.). As compressors wear, metallic particles develop in the working fluid. As the metallic particles move can adhere to inner surfaces of the compressor including electrical pin(s) of the electrical feedthrough. Buildup of the metallic particles on the electrical feedthrough and its electrical pin(s) can break down the dielectric properties of the electrical pin(s) that prevent arcing. For example, the building of the metallic particles can create a conductive path between the pins that causes an electrical short.

A locked rotor of the electrical motor/compressor can be caused by, for example, the torque on the electrical motor exceeding its maximum torque, loss of phase(s) of the multiphase power provided to the electrical motor, and/or mechanical failure of the electrical motor (e.g., mechanical seizer of the compressor, a bearing failure, interference issue, etc.).

The TCCS <NUM> is configured to prevent melting of the potting <NUM> of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>. The climate controller <NUM> can be configured to operate TCCS <NUM> to limit operation of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> in a melting condition that can cause melting of its potting <NUM>. A "melting" condition is an operating condition of the sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., a condition under which the sealed electrical operates) that can cause or lead to the potting <NUM> being heated to a temperature that melts the potting <NUM> (e.g., conditions that occur before the potting <NUM> reaches its melting temperature, etc.). For example, the sealed electrical feedthrough being in the "melting" condition can indicate that the sealed electrical feedthrough is moving towards and/or in danger of reaching condition(s) that can cause heating and melting of the sealed electrical feedthrough. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can operate the climate control circuit <NUM> to minimize operation in conditions with an increased potential of electrical arcing at the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> (e.g., at the electrical pins <NUM>) and/or with an amperage I<NUM> supplied through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> that can cause heating sufficient to melt its potting <NUM>. For example, the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is in the melting condition when: operating the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> in pressures that can cause electrical arcing at the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> sufficient to heat and melt the potting <NUM>, and/or with an amperage I<NUM> through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> sufficient to cause heating and melting of the potting <NUM>.

According to the invention, the climate controller <NUM> is configured to determine whether the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is in a melting condition based on one or more detected operating parameters. The one or more detected operating parameters can include one or more of the suction pressure Pi of the compressor <NUM> and the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can compare the detected suction pressure Pi to a predetermined suction pressure threshold and/or compare the detected amperage I<NUM> to a predetermined amperage draw limit. In an embodiment, the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is in a melting condition when the detected suction pressure Pi is less than a predetermined suction pressure threshold or when the detected amperage I<NUM> exceeds a predetermined amperage draw limit.

For example, the predetermined amperage draw limit can be a limit based on normal current draws of the motor <NUM> (e.g., current draws of the motor <NUM> without any electrical shorts or a locked rotor, not during the normal startup period of the motor <NUM>, etc.). The predetermined amperage draw limit can be a value determined based on previous testing (e.g., of the compressor <NUM>, of the motor <NUM>, of the climate control circuit <NUM>, of a motor/compressor/climate control circuit with the same or a similar configuration, etc.). In an embodiment, the predetermined amperage draw limits is lower than a minimal amperage that can cause heating sufficient to melts the potting <NUM> of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>.

For example, when the suction pressure Pi of the compressor <NUM> is below the predetermined suction pressure threshold, the internal space <NUM> of the outer housing <NUM> with the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> has a pressure below atmospheric pressure (e.g., the inward end(s) of pin(s) <NUM> of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> are in vacuum, etc.). The predetermined suction pressure threshold can be a value determined based on previous testing of the negative pressures that cause arcing along/between the electrical pin(s) <NUM> of the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> (e.g., testing of the of the compressor, of a motor/compressor/working fluid/refrigerant/climate control circuit with the same or a similar configuration, etc.). In an embodiment, the suction pressure Pi and the pressure of the internal space of the outer housing <NUM> into which the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> extends (e.g., pressure of the internal space <NUM>) can be at or about the same.

The climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect each of the one or more operating parameters for determining whether the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is in a melting condition. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect the suction pressure Pi of the compressor <NUM> using a suction pressure sensor <NUM> of the climate control circuit <NUM>. The suction pressure sensor <NUM> may be provided in the climate control circuit <NUM> between the evaporator <NUM> and the compressor <NUM> (e.g., downstream of the evaporator <NUM> and upstream of the suction port <NUM> of the compressor <NUM>). For example, the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> using a contact position POS of a contactor. For example, the climate controller <NUM> can be configured to detect the amperage I<NUM> of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> using the current sensor <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electrical power supplies to the motor <NUM> may be multi-phase AC electrical power. In such an embodiment, the climate controller <NUM> may be configured to detect the amperage of each phase of the muli-phase AC electrical power (e.g., amperage of a first phase/current, amperage of a second phase/current, amperage of the third phase/current). For example, the contactor can have a contact for each phase, and the climate controller <NUM> is configured to detect a respective contact position POS of the contactor for each phase.

According to the invention, the climate controller <NUM> is configured to adjust operation of the climate control circuit <NUM> so that the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is not in a melting condition. For example, when the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is in a melting condition, the climate controller <NUM> adjusts operation of the climate control circuit <NUM> so that the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> is no longer in a melting condition. In an embodiment, the adjustment of the climate control circuit <NUM> can include further opening the EEV <NUM> (e.g., adjusting the opening of the EEV <NUM> to allow more working fluid to flow through the EEV <NUM>) and/or interrupting the flow of electrical power to the electrical motor <NUM>. For example, the climate controller <NUM> may be configured to open the electrical disconnecter <NUM> (e.g., open the contactor, etc.) to interrupt the flow of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM> for the electrical motor <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flow chart for a method <NUM> of controlling a TCCS that provides climate control within a climate controlled space of a transport unit. In an embodiment, the method may be employed to control the TCCS <NUM> in <FIG> (e.g., employed by the climate controller <NUM>, etc.) and as described above. In an embodiment, the method <NUM> may be employed to control the TCCS <NUM> in <FIG> (e.g., employed by the climate controller <NUM>, etc.) and as described above. For example, a climate controller <NUM> of the TCCS <NUM> may employ the method <NUM>. The method <NUM> starts at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the TCCS operates a climate control circuit (e.g., climate control circuit <NUM>) to condition a climate controlled space (e.g., climate controlled space <NUM>). In an embodiment, the climate controlled space is the climate controlled space of a transport unit (e.g., climate controlled space <NUM> of the transport unit <NUM>). The climate controlled circuit includes a sealed compressor (e.g., compressor <NUM>), a condenser (e.g., condenser <NUM>), an expansion valve (e.g., expansion valve <NUM>), and an evaporator (e.g., evaporator <NUM>). The compressor includes a sealed outer housing (e.g., outer housing <NUM>), an electric motor (e.g., electric motor <NUM>) disposed within the sealed outer housing, and a sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>) that extends through the outer housing. For example, electrical power powering the electrical motor is supplied through the sealed outer housing via the sealed electrical feedthrough in the sealed outer housing. The sealed electrical feedthrough extends through the sealed outer housing and is electrically connected to the electric motor.

Working fluid flows through the climate controlled circuit (e.g., working fluid of the climate control circuit <NUM>). The compressor compresses the working fluid, the condenser cools the working fluid, the expansion valve expands the working fluid, and the evaporator heats the working fluid. The climate controller operates the climate controller circuit to provide climate control (for controlling e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate controlled space based on a temperature setpoint for the climate controlled space. For example, the climate control circuit can operate in a cooling mode to supply conditioned air (e.g., cooled air, etc.) to the climate controlled space so that the climate controlled space is cooled to be at or about the temperature setpoint.

Operating the climate control circuit to condition the climate controlled space at <NUM> includes operating the compressor to compress the working fluid at <NUM>. Operating the compressor to compress the working fluid at <NUM> includes supplying electrical power to the electrical motor of the compressor via the sealed electrical feedthrough of the compressor. The TCCS includes an electrical power system (e.g., electrical power system <NUM>) with an electrical power source (e.g., electrical power source <NUM>) for providing the electrical power to power the electrical motor of the compressor. For example, the electrical power source can include a battery (e.g., battery <NUM>) as a primary energy source. Optionally, the electrical power source may include a local power generator (e.g., internal combustion engine 166A, electric generator 166B, etc.) for charging the battery during transport.

In an embodiment, supplying the electrical power to the electrical motor the compressor via the sealed electrical feedthrough at <NUM> can include supplying electrical power from the power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough via an electrical disconnecter (e.g., electrical disconnecter <NUM>) <NUM>. The electrical power flows through the electrical disconnecter as it flows from the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough. In some embodiments, the electrical power supplied by the power source is DC power (e.g., DC power supplied by the battery) and an inverter (e.g., inverter <NUM>) converts the electrical power DC power to AC power. The inverter can electrically connect the electrical power source to the electrical disconnecter. In such embodiments, supplying the electrical power from the electrical power source to the sealed electrical feedthrough via the electrical disconnecter at <NUM> may include the inverter inverting the electrical power from DC power to AC power. In an embodiment, the climate controller can be configured to control the output frequency of the inverter to control the speed of the compressor. For example, the speed of the compressor can be controlled/selected based on the amount of conditioning desired for the climate controlled space.

In an embodiment, the expansion valve is an electronic expansion valve (EEV) that is controlled by the climate controller to adjust flow rate of working fluid through the EEV. Operating the climate control circuit to condition the climate controlled space at <NUM> can include the climate controller operating the EEV to expand the working fluid at <NUM>. For example, operating the EEV at <NUM> can include the climate controller adjusting the EEV (e.g., its valve position) based on a temperature of the working fluid after being heated by the evaporator (e.g., temperature T<NUM>). For example, the climate controller can be configured to keep the superheat of the heated working fluid at or about a predetermined amount or range (e.g., configured to keep the temperature of the heated working fluid at or about the amount or range corresponding with predetermined amount or range of superheat, etc.). For example, the climate controller can adjust the EEV to a first valve position based on said temperature of the heated working fluid (e.g., the EEV in the first valve position results in the temperature of the heated working fluid at the amount/range corresponding with the predetermined amount/range of superheat, etc.). The method <NUM> then proceeds from <NUM> to <NUM> or optionally to <NUM> first.

At optional <NUM>, the climate controller can determine whether the compressor is in its startup sequence. The compressor can operate differently during its startup. For example, a larger current ("inrush current") may be drawn by the motor of the compressor during the startup sequence of the compressor (e.g., larger amperage during the compressor's startup, etc.). In an embodiment, the climate controller can determine whether the compressor is in its startup sequence based on the amount of time since initiating the electric motor of compressor (e.g., the amount of time since current was first supplied to the motor). The climate controller may determine that the compressor is not in its startup sequence when a startup period for the electric motor has elapsed. The climate controller can determine that the compressor is not in its startup sequence when the time elapsed since initiating the electric motor is greater than the startup period (e.g., not in startup after elapsing the startup period from when current was initially supplied to start the electrical motor, etc.). The startup period can be a predetermined amount of time that is based on, for example, the amount of time normally needed by the compressor to complete its startup (e.g., to reach a steady state operation, normal amount of time for the startup sequence to complete, etc.).

In an embodiment, the climate controller may be configured to determine that the compressor is in its startup sequence at <NUM> by comparing the detected current of the electrical power supplied to the motor to an expected inrush current. The expected draw limit can be a value determined based on previous testing (e.g., of the compressor <NUM>, of the motor <NUM>, of the climate control circuit <NUM>, of a motor/compressor/climate control circuit with the same or a similar configuration, etc.). For example, the climate controller may be configured to determine that the compressor is not in its startup sequence at <NUM> when the detected electrical current being supplied to the motor exceeds an expected inrush current by more than a predetermined threshold. The detected electrical current exceeding the expected inrush current by the predetermined threshold can indicate, for example, that the compressor is malfunctioning (e.g., locked rotor, electrical short, etc.) and not simply in its startup sequence.

If the climate controller determines that the compressor is in startup sequence at optional <NUM> (e.g., less than the startup period for the compressor, less than the predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the motor's initiation, electrical current being supplied to the motor is at or less than the expected inrush current, etc.), the method <NUM> returns to optional <NUM>. In an embodiment, the climate controller may be configured to delay for a specific amount of time before returning to optional <NUM>. If the climate controller determines that the compressor is not in its startup sequence at optional <NUM> (e.g., at steady state, time since initiating motor's startup is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount of time, the starting period for the compressor has elapsed, etc.), the method <NUM> continues to <NUM>. Accordingly, the proceeding actions after optional <NUM> (e.g., at <NUM>, at <NUM>, at <NUM>, at <NUM>, etc.) in an embodiment can occur after the startup sequence of the compressor. For example, the operation parameter(s) detected at <NUM> are not for and/or during the startup sequence of the compressor of the compressor (e.g., do not correspond to a normal inrush current for starting the electric motor, etc.). In an embodiment, the method <NUM> may not include optional <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the method <NUM> can proceed directly from <NUM> to <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the climate controller detects one or more operating parameters of the sealed electrical feedthrough. In some embodiments, the detected operating parameters(s) of the sealed electrical feedthrough can include a suction pressure of the compressor (e.g., suction pressure Pi) and/or an amperage of the electrical power through the sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., amperage I<NUM>).

In an embodiment, detecting one or more operating parameters of the sealed electrical feedthrough at <NUM> can include detecting the suction pressure of the compressor at <NUM>. A climate controller can be configured to detect the suction pressure of the compressor at <NUM> via a pressure sensor of the climate control circuit (e.g., pressure sensor <NUM>).

In an embodiment, detecting one or more operating parameters of the sealed electrical feedthrough at <NUM> can include detecting the amperage of the electrical power supplied to the sealed electrical feedthrough <NUM>. In an embodiment, a climate controller may be configured to detect the amperage of the electrical power with a current sensor (e.g., current sensor <NUM>). In an embodiment, the electrical power is supplied to the sealed electrical feedthrough via the electrical disconnecter as discussed above. In such an embodiment, the electrical disconnecter can be a contactor. The climate controller may be configured to detect the amperage of the electrical power via the contactor. As discussed above, the contact's contact position (e.g., contact position POS) corresponds with the amperage of the electrical power as the contact position varies with the amperage of the electrical power flowing through the contactor. For example, the climate controller can be configured to detect the amperage of the electrical power by detecting the contact position of the contactor (e.g., contact position POS). The method <NUM> then proceeds from <NUM> to <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the climate controller determines whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition based on the detected one or more operation conditions of the sealed electrical feedthrough. For example, the climate controller may determine whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition at <NUM> by comparing each of the detected operating condition(s) of the sealed electrical feedthrough to a respective predetermined threshold/limit.

In some embodiments, determining whether the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition at <NUM> can include comparing the detected suction pressure to a predetermined suction pressure threshold at <NUM> and/or comparing the detected amperage to a predetermined amperage draw limit at <NUM>. At <NUM>, the climate controller compares the detected suction pressure of the compressor (e.g., the suction pressure detected at <NUM>) to a predetermined suction pressure threshold. The climate controller can be configured to determine that the sealed electrical feedthrough is in the melting condition at <NUM> when the detected suction pressure is less than the predetermined suction pressure threshold.

At <NUM>, the climate controller compares the detected amperage for the electrical power supplied to the sealed electrical feedthrough (e.g., the detected amperage at <NUM>, etc.) to a predetermined amperage draw limit. The climate controller can be configured to determine that the sealed electrical feedthrough is in a melting condition when the detected amperage exceeds the predetermined amperage draw limit. In an embodiment, the predetermined amperage draw limit may be based on an amperage capable of causing the potting of the sealed electrical feedthrough to reach the potting's melting point (e.g., amperage that heat(s) the electrical pin(s) to the melting point of the potting). For example, the predetermined amperage draw may be above normal maximum operating current for the motor of the compressor (e.g., above expected inrush current, etc.) and below the amperage that can cause heating of the potting to its melting point. For example, the detected amperage exceeds the predetermined amperage draw limit indicates increasing current draw by the motor, which can eventually lead to the current draw by the motor reaching the amperage that causes heating of the potting to its melting point. The method <NUM> then proceeds from <NUM> to <NUM>.

At <NUM>, when the sealed electrical feedthrough is determined to be in a melting condition, the method <NUM> proceeds to the <NUM>. When determined that the sealed electrical feedthrough is not operating in a melting condition, the method proceeds back to <NUM>. For example, the climate controller returns to <NUM> and continues the climate control circuit's conditioning of the climate controlled space when its determined that the sealed electrical feedthrough is not operating in the melting condition.

At <NUM>, the operation of the climate control circuit is adjusted so that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in the melting condition. For example, the climate controller controls the climate control circuit so that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer operating at the melting condition. In some embodiments, the adjustment of the climate control circuit at <NUM> can include further opening the EEV (e.g., EEV <NUM>) of the climate control circuit at <NUM> and/or opening an electrical disconnecter (e.g., electrical disconnecter <NUM>) that conducts the electrical power to the compressor at <NUM>. In an embodiment, the adjustment of the climate control circuit at <NUM> may include adjusting operation of the compressor (e.g., adjusting the current being supplied by the electrical power system <NUM>, etc.).

At <NUM>, the climate controller opens the EEV further (e.g., opens the EEV further from its valve position at <NUM>, etc.) such that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in a melting condition. The opening of the EEV increases the flow rate of the working fluid through the EEV. The increased flow of working fluid causes an increase in the suction pressure of the compressor. In an embodiment, the climate controller may be configured to further open EEV at <NUM> in response to the sealed electrical feedthrough being in a melting condition as determined based on the suction pressure at <NUM>. The EEV is opened further <NUM> by at least an amount that the sealed electrical feedthrough is no longer in a melting condition. For example, the climate controller can be configured to further open the EEV at <NUM> such that the suction pressure of the compressor is at or above the predetermined suction pressure threshold.

In an embodiment, the climate controller may open the EEV at <NUM> by adjusting the EEV from its first valve position (e.g., the first valve position based on controlling the superheat of the heated working fluid, based on the temperature T<NUM> of the heated working fluid, etc.) to a second valve position. In an embodiment, the opening of the EEV at <NUM> decreases the conditioning provided to the climate controlled space. For example, the opening of the EEV can cause the evaporator to provide less cooling of the air, such that the climate control circuit provides a lesser amount of cooling to the climate controlled space. This adjustment can result in the climate controlled circuit not providing sufficient conditioning and the climate controlled space being conditioned to a temperature above its temperature setpoint.

In an embodiment, the method <NUM> at <NUM> may include continuing operation of the climate control circuit to provide conditioning to the climate controlled space as described for <NUM>, except with the further opening of the EEV being maintained (e.g., operating so that each valve position of the EEV based on providing climate conditioning is modified similar to the adjustment from the first valve step to the second valve step, etc.). For example, the climate controller can be configured to keep the EEV further opened until instructed that the suction pressure issue has been fixed. An operator and/or technician may instruct the climate controller that the leak is repaired via, for example, a HMI (e.g., HMI <NUM>) and/or a telematics unit (e.g., telematics unit <NUM>) connected to the TCCS. In such embodiments, the method <NUM> would stay at <NUM> or a subsequent step of <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>) until receiving said instructions. After receiving instructions that the amperage issue has been fixed, the method <NUM> may return to <NUM>. For example, the climate controller is configured to close the electrical disconnecter once receiving instructions that the amperage issue has been fixed.

At <NUM>, climate controller opens an electrical disconnecter (e.g., electrical disconnecter <NUM>) of the electrical power system to interrupt the flow of the electrical power to motor of the compressor. When the electrical disconnecter is open, no electrical power is flowing through the sealed electrical feedthrough and the sealed electrical feedthrough is also no longer in a melting condition (e.g., amps through the sealed electrical feedthrough is zero which is less than the predetermined amperage draw limit, etc.). The compressor is shutdown as no power is being supplied to its motor. In an embodiment, the climate controller may be configured to open the electrical disconnecter at <NUM> in response to sealed electrical feedthrough being in a melting condition as determined based on the suction pressure at <NUM> and/or as determined based on the amperage of the mechanical power at <NUM>. The open electrical circuit also prevents the startup of the electrical motor/compressor.

In some embodiments, the method <NUM> may include the electrical disconnecter remaining open until the climate controller is instructed that the melting condition has been fixed (e.g., the issue causing the low suction pressure, the issue causing the high amperage, etc.). For example, the climate controller can be configured to keep the electrical disconnecter open (e.g., to not close the open electrical disconnecter, etc.) until instructed that the amperage issue and/or suction pressure has been fixed. An operator and/or technician may instruct the climate controller that melting condition issue has been fixed via, for example, a HMI (e.g., HMI <NUM>) and/or a telematics unit (e.g., telematics unit <NUM>) connected to the TCCS. In such embodiments, the method <NUM> would stay at <NUM> or subsequent <NUM> (e.g., at <NUM>) until receiving said instructions. After receiving instructions that the amperage issue has been fixed, the method <NUM> may return to <NUM>. For example, the climate controller is configured to close the electrical disconnecter once receiving instructions that the amperage issue has been fixed (e.g., a technician has replaced the compressor, etc.). The method <NUM> can then proceed to optional <NUM> or the method <NUM> ends.

Claim 1:
A method (<NUM>) of feedthrough protection and overcurrent protection of a sealed compressor (<NUM>) used in a transport climate control system (<NUM>, <NUM>) that provides climate control within a climate controlled space (<NUM>) of a transport unit (<NUM>), the transport climate control system (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a climate control circuit (<NUM>) with the sealed compressor, the sealed compressor (<NUM>) including an outer housing (<NUM>) and an electrical motor (<NUM>) within the outer housing, the method (<NUM>) comprising:
operating (<NUM>) the sealed compressor (<NUM>) to compress a working fluid by supplying (<NUM>) electrical power to the electric motor (<NUM>) of the sealed compressor (<NUM>) via a sealed electrical feedthrough (<NUM>) in the outer housing (<NUM>) of the sealed compressor (<NUM>);
detecting (<NUM>) an operating parameter of the sealed electrical feedthrough (<NUM>);
determining (<NUM>) whether the sealed electrical feedthrough (<NUM>) is in a melting condition (<NUM>) based on the detected operating parameter; and
adjusting (<NUM>) operation of the climate control circuit (<NUM>) upon determining that the sealed electrical feedthrough (<NUM>) is in the melting condition (<NUM>) until the sealed electrical feedthrough (<NUM>) is no longer in the melting condition (<NUM>).