High engine coolant temperature control

Abstract

An system and method for monitoring and limiting high power and overheating engine conditions in a transport refrigeration unit is disclosed. The system provides a microprocessor control which monitor the engine coolant temperature to determine whether it exceeds a predetermined limit. If the engine coolant temperature exceeds that limit, the control sends a control signal which restricts or closes the suction modulation valve of the transport refrigeration system, restricting the mass flow rate of the system and thereby reducing the power draw on the engine. The system further provides a continued monitoring process for further restricting or closing the suction modulation valve in the event of continued high engine coolant temperatures, and for gradually opening the suction modulation valve and increasing the maximum current draw on the engine once the engine coolant temperature sinks below its predetermined limit.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.