Transport refrigeration system with stand-by compressor drive motor also operable as a generator

摘要

A transport refrigeration system including a refrigerant compressor which is alternatively driven by an internal combustion engine or an electric induction motor. The transport refrigeration system achieves and maintains a predetermined set point temperature in a served space by heating and cooling cycles. When additional heat is required during a heating cycle while the internal combustion engine is driving the compressor, capacitors are connected across the induction motor, to cause the motor to function as an induction generator and build up an output voltage. The output voltage is monitored, and when it is sufficient to sustain a load, resistors located to aid the heating cycle are connected to receive the output voltage.