System and method for operating variable frequency drive using AC-power source in transport refrigeration unit

A transport refrigeration unit comprising:

• a compressor;
• and
• a variable frequency drive (VFD) operatively connected between the compressor and one or more AC power source,
• wherein the VFD is configured to be operated by the one or more AC power sources, and the VFD is operable to:
• receive a 3-phase AC power having a first set of electrical attributes from at least one of the one or more AC power source;
• convert the received 3-phase AC power into an AC power and/or DC power having a second set of electrical attributes;
• and
• supply the AC or DC power having the second set of electrical attributes to the compressor to operate the compressor.

A method comprising the steps of:

• operatively connecting an AC-powered variable frequency drive (VFD) between a first AC power source and a second AC power source,
• wherein the VFD is configured to be operated by the first AC power source and the second AC power source;
• receiving, by the VFD, a 3-phase AC power having a first set of electrical attributes from at least one of first AC power source and the second AC power source;
• converting, by the VFD, the received 3-phase AC power into an AC power and/or a DC power having a second set of electrical attributes;
• and
• supplying, by the VFD, the AC power and/or the DC power having the second set of electrical attributes to a compressor and/or one or more fans.