CN116901659A - Remote heat exchanger unit capable of configuring air duct system and air duct system having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A configurable remote heat exchanger unit of a transport climate control system is provided that provides climate control within a climate controlled space of the transport unit. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit includes: an air inlet; at least one heat exchanger coil through which air received through the air inlet is directed to the air outlet; an air outlet; and a separable air duct system configured to variably direct conditioned air received from the air outlet away from the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Description

Remote heat exchanger unit capable of configuring air duct system and air duct system having the same

Technical Field

Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to a transport climate control system (transport climate control system, TCS). In particular, embodiments described herein relate to a configurable remote heat exchanger unit within a climate controlled space of a transportation unit deploying a TCS.

Background

Transport climate control systems (TCSs) are commonly used to control environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a transport unit (e.g., a container on a flatbed, intermodal container, etc.), a truck, a van, or other similar transport unit). In some embodiments, the transport unit may include a plurality of zones, and the TCS may be a multi-zone TCS (MTCS) configured to provide independent climate control to each of the plurality of zones within the transport unit.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to transportation climate control systems (TCSs). In particular, embodiments described herein relate to a configurable remote heat exchanger unit within a climate controlled space of a transportation unit deploying a TCS.

Embodiments described and described herein relate generally to implementing one or more remote heat exchanger units within a climate controlled space, wherein each remote heat exchanger unit is capable of distributing a configurable airflow.

In particular, embodiments described herein may allow a configurable remote heat exchanger unit to adjust an airflow discharge arrangement to provide optimal airflow within a climate controlled space. For example, a customer may arrange the direction of airflow discharge of a remote heat exchanger unit according to the zone configuration of the climate controlled space or other customer requirements without requiring significant effort or maintenance technicians.

In one embodiment, a configurable remote heat exchanger unit of a transport climate control system is provided that provides climate control within a climate controlled space of the transport unit. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit includes: an air inlet; at least one heat exchanger coil through which air received through the air inlet is directed to the air outlet; an air outlet; and a separable air duct system configured to variably direct conditioned air received from the air outlet away from the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

In another embodiment, a configurable air duct system of a remote heat exchanger unit is provided. The configurable air duct system includes: at least one air container engaged with a corresponding air outlet of the heat exchanger; and at least two configurable air ducts cooperatively discharging air received from the heat exchanger via the at least one air container. One or more of the configurable air ducts has variable louvers that regulate the airflow therethrough.

Drawings

Reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which illustrate embodiments described in this specification. Various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional side view of a climate controlled transportation unit according to one or more non-limiting example embodiments of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge.

FIG. 2A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 2B shows a schematic block diagram of a separable air duct system according to an example embodiment described and described herein.

FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 2A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 4A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 4B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 4A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 5A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 5A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 6A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 6B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 6A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 7A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 7B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 7A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 8A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 8B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 8A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 9A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 9B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 9A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 10A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 10B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 10A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

FIG. 11A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 11B illustrates a schematic block diagram of another exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

FIG. 11C illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIGS. 11A and 11B in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 12A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 12B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 12A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 13A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 13B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 13A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 14A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 14B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 14A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 15A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 15B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 15A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Fig. 16A shows a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 16B shows a schematic block diagram of an alternative configuration of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least the example embodiment of fig. 16A.

Fig. 17A shows a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit bi-directional fan for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one other example embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 17B shows a schematic block diagram of an alternative configuration of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least the example embodiment of fig. 17A.

Fig. 18A illustrates a side view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air venting in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 18B shows a top view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least the example embodiment of fig. 18A.

Fig. 19A illustrates a side view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air venting in accordance with at least one other example embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 19B shows a top view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit for configurable air discharge in accordance with at least the example embodiment of fig. 19A.

Detailed Description

Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to transportation climate control systems (TCSs). In particular, embodiments described herein relate to a configurable remote heat exchanger unit within a climate controlled space of a transportation unit deploying a TCS.

The embodiments described and/or illustrated herein may refer to the accompanying figures; however, such embodiments are non-limiting examples, which may also be embodied in various other forms. Well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. In the description and drawings, like reference numerals identify elements that perform the same, similar or equivalent functions.

Further, since the example embodiments illustrated, described, and described herein are not intended to be limiting, it should be understood that the corresponding configurations are changeable. As an example, in a non-limiting alternative embodiment, a duct or air flow illustrated as being directed to the left may be directed to the right, and vice versa. It should be appreciated that in other non-limiting embodiments, the duct or air flow may be directed in any direction desired for a particular implementation. Thus, it should be understood that the number of permutations of embodiments according to example embodiments is substantial.

The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given herein. For example, not all elements may be required to practice the invention unless specifically described herein as "critical" or "required.

The embodiments described and described herein relate generally to providing a remote heat exchanger unit that is configurable to improve or even optimize air distribution within a given zone of a climate controlled space. Embodiments include and provide for configurable airflow direction of conditioned air exiting a remote heat exchanger unit and improved or even optimized temperature distribution within a climate controlled space.

TCS is typically used to control environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a transport unit (e.g., a container on a flatbed, intermodal container, etc.), a truck, a van, or other similar transport unit). The transport unit may include a plurality of zones and the TCS may be a multi-zone TCS (MTCS). Each zone may require different climatic conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) than one or more other zones. The MTCS can be configured to provide independent climate control to each of a plurality of zones within a transportation unit.

The MTCS can have a main unit and one or more remote heat exchanger units respectively configured to provide climate control to each of one or more zones within a multi-zone transport unit. The transport climate control unit (TCU) of the MTCS may include a compressor, an expansion valve, a first heat exchanger (e.g., a condenser), and a main heat exchanger unit. The main heat exchanger unit may include: a second heat exchanger (e.g., a main heat exchanger); one or more fans for providing climate control within the particular zone in which the main heat exchanger unit is located; one or more flow regulators (e.g., one or more solenoid valves, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid (e.g., refrigerant) flow into the main heat exchanger unit; and one or more throttling devices (e.g., one or more electronic throttles, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid flow available to the suction side of the compressor of the MTCS.

Each remote heat exchanger unit may have: remote heat exchangers (e.g., heat exchanger coils); one or more fans for providing climate control within the particular zone in which the remote heat exchanger unit is located; one or more flow regulating devices (e.g., one or more solenoid valves, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid flow entering the remote heat exchanger unit; and one or more throttling devices (e.g., one or more electronic throttles, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid flow available to the suction side of the compressor of the MTCS. Each remote heat exchanger unit may be connected to the TCU via a common working fluid line. A remote heat exchanger unit may be used to provide climate control for a region of the transport unit.

The MTCS can be used, for example, to cool, heat, and defrost two or more zones of a transportation unit. Note that in some cases, a remote heat exchanger unit may have two or more remote heat exchangers (e.g., a first heat exchanger coil and a second heat exchanger coil connected in parallel or in series).

The MTCS includes a working fluid line and a controller (e.g., an MTCS controller) configured to manage, command, direct, and regulate the behavior of one or more components (e.g., evaporator, condenser, compressor, expansion device, etc.) of the working fluid line. The MTCS controller can also be configured to manage, command, direct, and regulate the behavior of the main heat exchanger unit and one or more remote heat exchanger units. The MTCS may generally be a vapor compressor type refrigeration system, or may be any other suitable climate control system using a working fluid, cold plate technology, or the like.

Fig. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an MTCS 100 for a Transport Unit (TU) 125, which Transport Unit (TU) 125 may be towed, for example, by a tractor (not shown), according to one or more non-limiting example embodiments of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge. The MTCS 100 includes a transport climate control unit (TCU) 110 that provides environmental control (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a climate controlled space 150 of TU 125. The MTCS 100 also includes an MTCS controller 170 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the MTCS 100 and to communicate the parameter data to the MTCS controller 170. The MTCS 100 is powered by a power source 112. The TCU 110 is disposed on a front wall 130 of the TU 125. In other embodiments, it should be appreciated that the TCU 110 may be disposed, for example, on the roof 126 or another wall of the TU 125.

The TU 125 shown in fig. 1 is a trailer unit. However, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein are not limited to truck and trailer units, but may be applied to any other type of transportation unit (e.g., containers on flatbed, intermodal containers, etc.), trucks, vans, or other similar transportation units.

Programmable MTCS controller 170 can comprise a single integrated control unit or can comprise a distributed network of TCS control elements. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the particular application of the principles described herein. An MTCS controller 170 is configured to control the operation of MTCS 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, a power source 112 is disposed in the TCU 110. In other embodiments, the power source 112 may be separate from the TCU 110. Moreover, in some embodiments, the power source 112 may include two or more different power sources disposed inside or outside the TCU 110. In some embodiments, power source 112 may include an internal combustion engine, a battery, an alternator, a generator, a solar panel, a fuel cell, and the like. When power source 112 includes an internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine may be, for example, a two-speed engine, a variable speed engine, or the like.

The climate controlled space 150 is divided into a plurality of zones 152. The term "zone" refers to a portion of the area of the climate controlled space 150 that is separated by walls 175. In some examples, each zone 152 may maintain a set of environmental condition parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) independent of other zones 152.

Note that in fig. 1, the climate controlled space 150 is divided into three zones: a first region 152a; a second region 152b; and a third region 152c. The various regions 152 shown in fig. 1 are divided into approximately equal areas. However, it should be appreciated that the climate controlled space 150 may be divided into any number of zones in any size configuration suitable for environmental control of the different zones.

The MTCS 100 is configured to control and maintain individual environmental condition requirements in each zone 152. The MTCS 100 includes: a main heat exchanger unit 111 disposed within the TCU 110 for providing climate control within the first zone 152 a; and a plurality of remote heat exchanger units 180 disposed in TU 125. That is, the first remote heat exchanger unit 180a is disposed in the second zone 152b, and the second remote heat exchanger unit 180b is disposed in the third zone 152 c. The main heat exchanger unit 111 and the remote heat exchanger unit 180 are collectively referred to herein as heat exchanger units. In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third zones 152a, 152b, 152c may be a chilled temperature zone operating to maintain a temperature set point within a chilled temperature range or a fresh temperature zone operating to maintain a temperature set point within a fresh temperature range. In one embodiment, for example, the freezing temperature range may be between about-25°f and about 15°f, and the fresh temperature range may be between about 16°f and about 90°f. In another embodiment, for example, the freezing temperature range may be between about-25°f and about 24°f, and the fresh temperature zone may be between about 26°f and about 90°f. It should be appreciated that any of the first zone 152a, the second zone 152b, and the third zone 152c may be a fresh temperature zone operating to maintain a temperature set point within a fresh temperature range or a chilled temperature zone operating to maintain a temperature set point within a chilled temperature range.

Each remote heat exchanger unit 180a, 180b is fluidly connected to the main heat exchanger unit 111. The main heat exchanger unit 111 and the respective remote heat exchanger units 180a, 180b may include: one or more heat exchanger coils; one or more fans for providing climate control within the particular zone in which the heat exchanger unit is located; one or more flow regulators (e.g., one or more solenoid valves, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid flow into the heat exchanger unit; and one or more throttling devices (e.g., one or more electronic throttles, etc.) for controlling the amount of working fluid flow available to the suction side of the compressor of MTCS 100. The HEAT exchange units (e.g., the main HEAT exchanger unit 111 and the respective remote HEAT exchanger units 180) may operate in a plurality of modes of operation (e.g., a NULL mode, a run NULL mode, a COOL (COOL) mode, a HEAT mode, a DEFROST (DEFROST) mode, a low fan speed mode, a high engine speed mode, a low engine speed mode, etc.).

Additional details of the remote heat exchanger units 180a, 180B are described below with reference to fig. 2A-15B.

Fig. 2A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein. Fig. 2A shows configuration views of examples (i) - (iv) for variable configuration of remote heat exchanger unit 200, as described below.

As depicted in fig. 2A, a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include: an air inlet, for example, a bottom air inlet 202A or a top air inlet 202B; at least one heat exchanger coil 205 through which air received through one or both of the air inlets 202A or 202B is directed to the air outlet 212; one or more fans, such as fans 210A and 210B, that direct air received through the at least one air inlet 202A, 202B through the at least one heat exchanger coil 205; and a separable air duct system 215 that variably directs conditioned air received from the air outlet 212 out of the remote heat exchanger unit 200.

The air inlet 202, which may alternatively be referred to as an air return inlet, may refer to one or more openings through which air is received into the remote heat exchanger unit 200. According to example embodiments described and recited herein, an embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include at least one of a bottom air inlet 202A disposed on a bottom of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 and a top air inlet 202B disposed on a top of the remote heat exchanger unit 200. However, the embodiments described, recited, and even suggested herein are not so limited. The air inlet 202 may also be disposed on any surface of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, such as a side, particularly when the remote heat exchanger unit 200 is not limited to a square or rectangular configuration.

The heat exchanger coil 205 may refer to one or more heat exchanger coils disposed within the remote heat exchanger unit 200 to receive air from the conditioned space blown by a heat exchanger blower (not shown) and to recondition the received air as it is blown through the heat exchanger coil 205. The reconditioned air may then be directed to the air outlet 212.

Although not limiting, as described and recited herein, unless otherwise indicated or specified, various embodiments of the heat exchanger coil 205 may be understood as having associated therewith corresponding drain tanks, heating systems, liquid line solenoid valves, blowers, and the like.

The fan 210 may refer to a fan that blows air received through the one or more air inlets 202 across the one or more heat exchanger coils 205 toward the air outlets 212.

According to all of the example embodiments described and depicted herein, alternatives thereof may include a bi-directional fan 210 that may be rotated in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

Accordingly, alternative embodiments including a bi-directional fan 210 may have symmetrical fan blades, thereby effectively controlling the direction of airflow affected by the bi-directional fan 210, depending on, for example, the direction of rotation of the fan blades.

The air outlet 212 may refer to an opening in the remote heat exchanger unit 200 that partially regulates the discharge of conditioned air from the remote heat exchanger unit 200. Thus, the climate controlled air (e.g., cooling air, heating air, etc.) exiting the air outlet 212 may be directed back into the conditioned space where it will exchange heat with the air from the climate controlled space and maintain the climate controlled space at a desired temperature. According to a non-limiting example embodiment of the variations described and depicted herein, the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may have one or more air outlets 212. For example, for embodiments having two heat exchanger coils 205, the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include an air outlet 212 corresponding to each of the plurality of heat exchanger coils 205.

The separable air ductwork 215 can refer to ductwork that facilitates a configurable direction of airflow based on the placement of the heat exchanger coils 205 in their environment (e.g., within a climate controlled space).

The air duct inlet 220 may refer to an opening in the separable air duct system 215 through which air respectively directed through the heat exchanger coil 205 and through the air outlet 212 may be directed in a desired direction into the environment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Throughout the drawings and their description, there may be depictions and/or descriptions of a number of features, such as, but not limited to, fans 210A and 210B; air duct inlets 220A, 220B, and 220C; etc. However, the embodiments depicted, described, or described herein are not so limited in terms of the number of features shown and disclosed with respect to the various embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200. Thus, unless the context requires otherwise, the description and recitation herein may refer to such features in the singular, for example, one or more fans 210, one or more air duct inlets 220, etc., without limiting the scope of any embodiments depicted, described, or recited herein.

The exemplary fig. 2A-i through 2A-iv include a heat exchanger coil 205. Air discharged from the air outlets 212 may be directed to a separable air duct system 215 having, for example, air outlets 2160A, 2160B, and 2160C.

Exemplary fig. 2B illustrates a separable air duct system 215 configured to discharge air from the air outlet 212 from a single opening (e.g., opening 2160A) by blocking airflow at any two of openings 2160A, 2160B, and 2160C. In the figure, the opening 2160C is blocked.

Exemplary fig. 2B illustrates a detachable air duct system 215 configured to discharge air from the air outlet 212 from all available openings (e.g., openings 2160A-C) by opening all openings 2160A-C.

Exemplary fig. 2B illustrates a separable air duct system 215 configured to discharge air from the air outlet 212 from opposing lateral openings (e.g., openings 2160A and B) by blocking any of the openings 2160A-C. In the figure, the opening 2160B is blocked.

Exemplary fig. 2A-iv illustrate side views of a remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Fig. 2B shows a schematic block diagram of a separable air duct system 215 according to an example embodiment described and depicted herein.

As depicted, non-limiting example embodiments of separable air duct system 215 may include, for example, air duct inlets 220A-C, ducts 2150A-C, baffles 2155A-C, and air duct outlets 2160A-C.

Air duct inlets 220A-C may refer to openings in separable air duct system 215 that may be connected to air outlets 212 corresponding to remote heat exchanger units 200. The separable air duct system 215 may be sealed, attached, or otherwise connected to the remote heat exchanger unit 200 such that substantially all of the air flowing through the air outlet 212 is directed into the separable air duct system 215, and more particularly into one or more of the air duct inlets 220A-C.

According to at least some example embodiments described and recited herein, the air outlet 212 may include a series of openings, e.g., each of the air duct inlets 220A-C sealed, attached, or otherwise connected to the series of openings; or the air outlet 212 may be configured as a single opening with one or more of the air duct inlets 220A-C sealed, attached, or otherwise connected to portions of the single opening.

According to at least some example embodiments described and recited herein, one or more of the air outlets 212A-C may have louvers or dampers 2175A-C attached, which may be variably opened or closed to thereby manually or automatically adjust the air flow from the respective air duct outlets.

Although not limiting, as described and depicted herein, unless otherwise indicated or specified, each occurrence of one or more air outlets 212 described as closed may be understood to mean that the corresponding damper 2175 has been or remains closed. Likewise, each occurrence of one or more air outlets 212 described as being open may be understood to mean that the corresponding damper 2175 has been opened or remains open. It should be appreciated that the damper 2175 may be manually, mechanically, or electronically actuated to open or close.

Similarly, and also without limitation, as described and recited herein, unless otherwise indicated or specified, each occurrence of one or more air conduit openings 2160 described as closed may be understood to mean that the corresponding damper (not shown) has been closed or remains closed. Likewise, each occurrence of one or more air conduit openings 2160 described as open may be understood to mean that the corresponding damper (not shown) has been opened or remains open.

Tubes 2150A-C may be considered as tubes or channels, respectively, through which air received from remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be discharged from air tube inlets 220A-C to air tube outlets 2160A-C, respectively, via air outlets 212.

According to at least some example embodiments described and recited herein, one or more of the tubes 2150A-C may be made of a rigid material, or alternatively, a flexible and configurable material. Regarding the flexible and configurable material, a particular one of the tubes 2150A-C may be configured to change the direction of air discharge therethrough; and a particular one of the tubes 2150A-C may be configured to affect the velocity of air flowing therethrough by expanding or contracting.

Alternatively or in addition to affecting the velocity of the air exiting each conduit, the baffles 2155A-C may be flexible or configurable material disposed within at least a portion of one or more of the conduits 2150A-C.

As described above, air conduit outlets 2160A-C may be openings of respective ones of conduits 2150A-C that may or may not be sealed, attached, or otherwise connected to the housing of remote heat exchanger unit 200, and through which air may be expelled to the environment of remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Throughout the drawings and their description, there may be depicted and/or described various features, such as, but not limited to, air duct inlets 220A, 220B, and 220C; pipes 2150A-C, baffles 2155A-C, and air pipe outlets 2160A-C, etc. However, the embodiments depicted, described, or described herein are not so limited in terms of the number of features shown and disclosed with respect to the various embodiments of the separable air duct system 215. Accordingly, unless the context requires otherwise, the description and recitation herein may refer to such features in the singular, for example, one or more air duct inlets 220, one or more ducts 2150, one or more baffles 2155, and one or more air duct outlets 2160A-C, etc., without limiting the scope of any embodiments depicted, described or recited herein.

Fig. 2C illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit 200 of fig. 2A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein. Further, FIG. 2C illustrates examples 2C-i and 2C-ii for deploying a remote heat exchanger unit 200.

As shown and described with respect to fig. 1, the transport unit 20 may be attached to and configured to be towed by a tractor (not shown). According to at least some example embodiments described and recited herein, the transport unit 20 may be a trailer, but the embodiments described herein are not limited to trailers, but may be applied to any type of non-passenger transport unit (e.g., trucks, containers (e.g., on-board, intermodal, marine, etc.), van, semi-tractor, other similar transport units, or even passenger vehicles (e.g., mass transit buses, etc.).

Within the climate-controlled space of the transport unit 20, movable walls or barriers 25A and 25B may be arranged as shown and described with respect to FIG. 2C. Further, in various non-limiting example embodiments, the transport unit 20 may include one or more walls 25 depending on factors including, but not limited to, the type of cargo, the amount of the various types of cargo, temperature requirements for maintaining the various types of cargo, and the like. Accordingly, the respective size and temperature requirements of the climate controlled zones 20A-20C may be varied, with the size being varied by placement of the respective ones of the walls 25A and 25B.

As described, non-limiting examples of embodiments of the transport unit 20 may include climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C and walls or barriers 25A and 25B. However, the embodiments depicted, described, or recited herein are not so limited in terms of the number thereof shown and disclosed with respect to the various embodiments of the transport unit 20. Accordingly, unless the context requires otherwise, the descriptions and descriptions herein may refer to the climate controlled zone and the wall or barrier, such as the climate controlled zones 20A-C, the one or more walls 25, or the one or more barriers 25 in the singular, without limiting the scope of any embodiments depicted, described or described herein.

Without limitation, the description of the barriers 25A and B and the climate controlled zones 20A-C may be applied to all embodiments described, recited, or even suggested herein.

2C-i illustrate one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in zone 20B, wherein separable air ductwork 215 is configured to discharge air from air outlet 212 from opposing lateral openings (e.g., openings 2160A and C) by blocking one or both of air outlet 212B or opening 2160B; and another embodiment of remote heat exchanger unit 200 in zone 20C, wherein separable air duct system 215 is configured to discharge air from air outlet 212 through openings 2160B and C by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A or opening 2160A.

2C-ii illustrate one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in zone 20B, wherein separable air duct system 215 is configured to discharge air from air outlets 212 from all available openings (e.g., openings 2160A-C) by opening all air outlets 212 and openings 2160A-C; and another embodiment of remote heat exchanger unit 200 in zone 20C, wherein separable air duct system 215 is configured to discharge air from air outlet 212B by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A and opening 2160A and one or both of air outlet 212B or opening 2160C.

Fig. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein. Fig. 3 shows configuration views of the exemplary fig. 3A-3F of the variable configuration of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, as described below.

3A-3F relate to a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200, which may include a bottom air inlet 202A; heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B through which air received through air inlet 202A is directed outwardly; fans 210A and 210B that direct air received through the air intake 202A over the heat exchanger coil 205; and a separable air duct system 215.

Exemplary fig. 3A shows a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through each heat exchanger coil 205. While the example embodiment depicts the heat exchanger coil 205 on the opposite side of the fan 210, this implies about 180 ° of separation, the example is non-limiting. The plurality of heat exchanger coils 205 within an embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be separated in different configurations.

As previously described, for embodiments having two heat exchanger coils 205, the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include an air outlet 212 for each of the plurality of heat exchanger coils 205. Thus, while the exemplary FIG. 3A shows a separable air duct system 215 disposed on top of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, air blown over the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through a corresponding one of the air outlets 212; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 is exhausted from remote heat exchanger unit 200 through air duct outlet 212 through block openings 2160A and 2160C (not shown) through opening 2160B.

Exemplary fig. 3B shows a top view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200, wherein one or more of fans 210A and B draw air from the environment into bottom air intake 202A and through each of heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. Heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B are disposed on opposite sides of fan 210. An air duct system 215 is disposed on one side of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 to receive air from the air outlets 212B corresponding to the heat exchanger coils 205B. Accordingly, air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 is exhausted from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212B through openings 2160B through blocking openings 2160A and 2160C (not shown).

Exemplary fig. 3C shows a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through each heat exchanger coil 205. Remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include an air outlet 212 for each of heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. A separable air duct system 215 is disposed on top of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 and air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A; and air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205B by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212B. That is, one or both of the air outlet 212A or the conduit opening 2160A and one or both of the air outlet 212C or the conduit opening 2160C are blocked.

Exemplary fig. 3D shows a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into the top air intake 202B and through each of the heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. A separable air duct system 215 is disposed below the remote heat exchanger unit 200 and air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through a corresponding one of the air outlets 212; and air blown through the heat exchanger coil 205B by the one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of the air outlets 212A or the air conduit openings 2160A and one or both of the air outlets 212C or 2160C (not shown) is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the outlet 212 through the openings 2160B.

Exemplary fig. 3E shows a top view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into the top air intake 202B and through the individual heat exchanger coils 205. The heat exchanger coils 205 are disposed on opposite sides of the fan 210. An air duct system 215 is disposed below the remote heat exchanger unit 200 to receive air from the air outlets 212B corresponding to the heat exchanger coils 205B. Accordingly, air blown over the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlet 212A and air conduit openings 2160A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 through one or more of air outlets 212A or air conduit openings 2160A and one or more of air outlets 212A or air conduit openings 2160C (not shown) is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212B through openings 2160B.

Exemplary fig. 3F shows a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into top intake 202B and through each heat exchanger coil 205. Remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include an air outlet 212 for each of heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. A separable air duct system 215 is disposed below the remote heat exchanger unit 200 and air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 can be exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air duct openings 2160A via the air outlets 212A; and air blown through the heat exchanger coil 205B by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air conduit openings 2160B via the air outlet 212B. That is, one or both of the air outlet 212A or the conduit opening 2160A and one or both of the air outlet 212B or the conduit opening 2160B are blocked.

Fig. 4A shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment described and recited herein.

Exemplary fig. 4A-i through 4A-iv relate to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200, which may include a bottom air inlet 202A; heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B, wherein air received through air inlet 202A is directed outwardly through heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B; fans 210A and 210B that direct air received through the bottom air intake 202A through the heat exchanger coil 205; and a separable air duct system 215 configured to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Exemplary fig. 4A-i show top views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200. In an example embodiment, one or both of fans 210A and 210B draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through each of heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. Although the example embodiment describes heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B on opposite sides of fans 210A and 210B, this means approximately 180 ° apart, the example is non-limiting. The plurality of heat exchanger coils 205 within an embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be separated in different configurations.

As previously described, for embodiments having two heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B, the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include air outlets 212A and 212B for the heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B, respectively. Thus, while the exemplary fig. 4A-i illustrate the separable air duct system 215 being U-shaped to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, air blown through the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A and air duct openings 2160A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A or conduit opening 2160A and one or both of air outlet 212B or conduit opening 2160B is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212C through opening 2160C.

Exemplary fig. 4A-ii show side views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger unit 200 from example (i) of fig. 4A. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through heat exchanger coil 205A.

Exemplary fig. 4A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger unit 200, wherein one or more of fans 210A and B draw air from the environment into bottom air intake 202A and through both heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. Heat exchanger coils 205A and B are disposed on opposite sides of fan 210. The air duct system 215 is U-shaped to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200; air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 through air outlets 212A and 212B and openings 2160A and B by blocking one or both of air outlet 212C or conduit opening 2160C is exhausted from remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Further, as previously described, the tubing may be made of a flexible and configurable material. Thus, according to the non-limiting example embodiment of fig. 4A, air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 through openings 2160A and B via corresponding outlets 212 through flexible conduits 2150A and 2150B to exit remote heat exchanger unit 200 in an airflow adjacent to the airflow exiting outlet 212A corresponding to heat exchanger coil 205A.

Exemplary fig. 4A-iv illustrate side views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 from exemplary fig. 4A-iii. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through heat exchanger coil 205A.

FIG. 4B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 4A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

As shown and described with respect to fig. 1, the transport unit 20 is attached to and configured to be towed by a tractor (not shown). Within the transport unit 20 are movable walls or barriers 25A and 25B. Further, as described and previously described, non-limiting examples of embodiments of the transport unit 20 include climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

FIG. 4B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 4A-i, i.e., the separable air duct system 215 is U-shaped to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200; air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A or conduit opening 2160A and one or both of air outlet 212B or conduit opening 2160B is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212C through opening 2160C.

FIG. 4B also illustrates one embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 4A-iii, i.e., the separable air duct system 215 is U-shaped to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, air that has been blown through the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 being discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of air outlet 212C or conduit opening 2160C is exhausted from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212 through openings 2160A and 2160B.

Fig. 5A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

5A-i through 5A-iv relate to a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200, which may include a bottom air inlet 202A; heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B through which air received through air inlet 202A is directed outwardly; fans 210A and 210B that direct air received through the bottom air intake 202A through the heat exchanger coils 205A and B; and a separable air duct system 215 configured to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200.

Exemplary fig. 5A-i show top views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200. In an example embodiment, one or more of fans 210A and 210B draw air from the environment into bottom air intake 202A and through both heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. The plurality of heat exchanger coils 205 within an embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be separated in different configurations, as previously described.

Also as previously described, for embodiments having heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B, remote heat exchanger unit 200 may include air outlets 212A and 212B corresponding to heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B, respectively. Thus, while the exemplary fig. 5A-i illustrate the separable air duct system 215 as L-shaped to cover two adjacent sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, air blown through the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 is discharged from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A and air duct openings 2160A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 through one or more air outlets 212C or one or both of conduit openings 2160C (not shown) by blocking one or both of air outlets 212B or conduit openings 2160B is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212A through openings 2160A.

Exemplary fig. 5A-ii show side views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 from exemplary fig. 5A-i. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through heat exchanger coil 205A.

5A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202A and through both heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B. Heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B are disposed on opposite sides of fan 210. The air duct system 215 is L-shaped to cover two adjacent sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200; air blown over the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlet 212 and duct openings 2160A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A or conduit opening 2160A and one or both of air outlet 212B or conduit opening 2160B (not shown) is exhausted from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via air outlet 212 through conduit opening 2160B.

According to the non-limiting example embodiment of fig. 5A, air blown over heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 through opening 2160B via outlet 212B through flexible duct 2150B to exit remote heat exchanger unit 200 in an airflow adjacent to the airflow exiting from air outlet 212 corresponding to heat exchanger coil 205A.

Exemplary fig. 5A-iv illustrate side views of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 from exemplary fig. 5A-iii. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more fans 210 draw air from the environment into bottom intake 202A and through heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B and exhaust air through air duct openings 212A and 212B, respectively, corresponding to the heat exchanger coils.

FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 5A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

As shown and described with respect to fig. 1, the transport unit 20 is attached to and configured to be towed by a tractor (not shown). Within the transport unit 20 are movable walls or barriers 25A and 25B. Further, as described and previously described, non-limiting examples of embodiments of the transport unit 20 may include climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

FIG. 5B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 5A-i, i.e., the separable air duct system 215 is L-shaped to cover adjacent sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200; air blown over the heat exchanger coils 205A by the one or more fans 210 is exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 by blocking one or both of air outlet 212A or conduit opening 2160A and one or both of air outlet 212B or conduit opening 2160B is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212 through opening 2160C.

FIG. 5B also illustrates one embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 5A-iii, i.e., the separable air duct system 215 is U-shaped to cover three of the four sides of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, with air blown through the heat exchanger coil 205A by the one or more fans 210 being exhausted from the remote heat exchanger unit 200 through the corresponding air outlets 212A; and air blown through heat exchanger coil 205B by one or more fans 210 through one or more air outlets 212A or one or both of conduit openings 2160A and one or both of air outlets 212C or conduit openings 2160C (not shown) is discharged from remote heat exchanger unit 200 via outlet 212B through openings 2160B.

Fig. 6A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

Fig. 6A-i illustrate a top view of a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which two misaligned heat exchanger coils 205 are separated by a dividing wall to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with double sided airflow discharge. Double sided airflow discharge is achieved by: positioning fan 210A adjacent the rear of remote heat exchanger unit 200 on the opposite side of heat exchanger coil 205A from outlet 212A; and maintains the fan 210B at its central position.

Exemplary fig. 6A-ii show side views of the exemplary embodiment of fig. 6A-i, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

6A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which two misaligned heat exchanger coils 205A and B are separated by a dividing wall to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with single-sided airflow discharge. The single-sided airflow discharge is achieved by: positioning fan 210A adjacent the rear of remote heat exchanger unit 200 on the opposite side of heat exchanger coil 205A from outlet 212A; and maintains the fan 210B at its central position.

Fig. 6A-iv illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of fig. 6A-iii, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202A.

Fig. 6B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 6A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 6B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 6A-i and 6A-ii, i.e., double sided airflow discharge. Further, the exemplary FIG. 6B also illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 6A-i and 6A-ii, i.e., single side air flow discharge.

Fig. 7A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

7A-i illustrate a top view of a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205 span a dividing wall that is arranged to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with double sided airflow discharge. Double sided airflow discharge is achieved by: positioning the fan 210A adjacent the rear of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 on the side of the heat exchanger coil 205A opposite the outlet 212A and closing the air outlet 212B on the respective side of the partition; and similarly positions fan 210B adjacent the opposite end of remote heat exchanger unit 200 relative to fan 210A and outlet 212B, and closes outlet 212A on the respective side of the partition.

7A-ii illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 7A-i, in which a fan 210 draws air from the environment into a bottom air intake 202.

7A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205 span a dividing wall separating respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with single-sided airflow discharge. The single-sided airflow discharge is achieved by: fans 210A and 210B are positioned adjacent the rear of remote heat exchanger unit 200 on opposite sides of respective outlets 212A and 212B, thus blowing air through heat exchanger coil 205 and through respective openings 212.

7A-iv illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 7A-iii, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

FIG. 7B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 7A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 7B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 7A-i and 7A-ii, i.e., double sided airflow discharge. Further, the exemplary FIGS. 7A-v also illustrate one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 7A-i and 7A-ii, i.e., single side air flow discharge.

Fig. 8A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

8A-i illustrate a top view of a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B are disposed on opposite sides of a dividing wall that is configured to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with double sided airflow discharge. Double sided airflow discharge is achieved by: positioning the fan 210A adjacent the rear of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 on the opposite side of the heat exchanger coil 205A from the outlet 212A and closing the opposite outlet 212B on the respective side of the partition; and similarly positioning fan 210B adjacent the opposite end of remote heat exchanger unit 200 on the opposite side of heat exchanger coil 205B relative to fan 210A and outlet 212B, and closing the opposite outlet 212A on the respective side of the divider.

8A-ii illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 8A-i, in which a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

8A-iii illustrate a top view of a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B are disposed on opposite sides of a dividing wall that is configured to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 are configured with single-sided airflow discharge. The single-sided airflow discharge is achieved by: fans 210A and 210B are positioned adjacent the rear of remote heat exchanger unit 200 on opposite sides of respective outlets 212A and 212B with heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B disposed therebetween, thus blowing air through heat exchanger coils 205 and through respective openings 212.

8A-iv illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 8A-iii, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

FIG. 8B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 8A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 8B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 8A-i and 8A-ii, i.e., double sided airflow discharge. Further, example (v) also illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the example FIGS. 8A-i and 8A-ii, i.e., single-sided airflow discharge.

Fig. 9A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

9A-i illustrate a top view of a non-limiting example embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A are disposed on opposite sides of a dividing wall that is configured to separate respective corresponding air streams. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with a double sided airflow discharge in which the heat exchanger coil 205A is in one airflow and the heat exchanger coils 205B and 205C are in another airflow.

The air flow with heat exchanger coils 205B and 205C may be configured with a single side air flow discharge or a double side air flow discharge. Double sided airflow discharge may be achieved by blocking airflow from the fan 210B to the heat exchanger coil 205B with a partition and closing the corresponding liquid line solenoid valve working fluid to the heat exchanger coil 205B. The partition may be a plastic or metal plate or damper. In addition, the heat exchanger coil 205A is positioned adjacent to the rear of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, adjacent to the outlet 212A, with the fan 210A centrally disposed; and double sided airflow discharge is achieved by positioning fan 210B centrally between heat exchanger coil 205B and heat exchanger coil 205C, with outlet 212B adjacent to heat exchanger coil 205C.

Fig. 9A-ii illustrate side views of the embodiment of fig. 9A-i, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

9A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A are disposed on opposite sides of a dividing wall that is configured to separate respective corresponding air streams. Single side discharge may be achieved by blocking airflow from the fan 210B to the heat exchanger coil 205C with a partition and closing the corresponding liquid line solenoid valve working fluid flow to the heat exchanger coil 205C. A limit switch may be utilized to sense the airflow blocking position and control the liquid line solenoid valve. In addition, the heat exchanger coil 205A is positioned adjacent to the rear of the remote heat exchanger unit 200, adjacent to the outlet 212A, with the fan 210A centrally disposed; and single-sided airflow discharge is achieved by positioning fan 210B centrally between heat exchanger coil 205B and heat exchanger coil 205C, with outlet 212B adjacent to heat exchanger coil 205B.

Fig. 9A-iv illustrate side views of the embodiment of fig. 9A-iii, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

Fig. 9B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 9A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 9B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in examples (i) and (ii) of FIG. 9A, i.e., double sided airflow discharge. Further, the exemplary FIG. 9B also illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in FIGS. 9A-i and 9A-ii, i.e., single side air flow discharge.

Fig. 10A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

10A-i illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coil 205A is disposed in the same air flow as heat exchanger coil 205B. Double sided airflow discharge may be achieved by: positioning the heat exchanger coil 205A adjacent the rear of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 adjacent the outlet 212A, with the fans 210A and 210B centrally disposed and the heat exchanger coil 205B adjacent the outlet 212B; and opens the liquid line solenoid valve working fluid flow to heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B.

10A-ii illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 10A-i, in which a fan 210 draws air from the environment into a bottom air intake 202A.

10A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coil 205A is disposed in the same airflow as heat exchanger coil 205B. Single-sided airflow discharge may be achieved by blocking airflow to the heat exchanger coil 205A or 205B with a divider and closing the corresponding liquid line solenoid valve working fluid flow to the blocked heat exchanger coil. The partition may be a plastic or metal plate or damper. A limit switch may be utilized to sense airflow obstruction and control the liquid line solenoid valve.

10A-iv illustrate side views of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 10A-iii, wherein a fan 210 draws air from the environment into the bottom air intake 202.

FIG. 10B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 10A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 10B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 10A-i and 10A-ii, i.e., double sided airflow discharge. Further, the exemplary FIG. 10B also illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 10A-i and 10A-ii, i.e., single side air flow discharge.

Fig. 11A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

11A-i illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which individual heat exchanger coils 205 are arranged in a circular pattern.

11A-ii illustrate side views of the embodiment of FIGS. 11A-i, in which a fan 210 draws air from the environment into a bottom air intake 202.

11A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which individual heat exchanger coils 205 are arranged in two generally square shells having rounded edges.

11A-iv, 11A-v, 11A-vi, and 11A-vii illustrate top views of various embodiments related to the examples of FIGS. 11A-i through 11A-iii.

According to the exemplary fig. 11A-i through 11A-vii, the airflow discharge may be in any direction. Single-sided venting may be achieved by: the insert is variably inserted into all but one of the air outlets to block the air flow. Double or triple sided airflow discharge may be achieved by inserting two or more inserts at appropriate air outlets.

For each remote heat exchanger unit, the drain tank and defrost heater are circular and inclined at an angle to drain during frosting.

FIG. 11B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of FIG. 11A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B, 20C and 20D constructed from walls or barriers 25A, 25B and 25C.

FIG. 11B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B wherein separable air ductwork 215 is configured to provide double-sided airflow discharge; FIG. 11B also illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured to provide 360 degrees of airflow discharge; 11-v also illustrate one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20D wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured to provide single-sided airflow discharge.

Fig. 12A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

12A-v illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are arranged in a triangular configuration. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with three-sided airflow discharge, wherein each heat exchanger coil 205 is disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, and no airflow outlet 212 is blocked.

12A-ii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are arranged in a triangular configuration. An embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 is configured with two-sided airflow discharge, with the outlet 212A corresponding to the heat exchanger coil 205A closed and the liquid line solenoid valve working fluid flow to the heat exchanger coil 205 closed; and heat exchanger coils 205A and 205B are disposed adjacent to corresponding outlets 212 that allow airflow therethrough.

Similarly, single-sided venting may be achieved by blocking airflow to any two of the heat exchanger coils 205 and closing the liquid line solenoid valve working fluid to those heat exchanger coils 205. A limit switch or use input may be used to sense the airflow blocking position and thus control the liquid line solenoid valve to the blocked heat exchanger coil.

In the exemplary fig. 12A-i and 12A-ii non-limiting exemplary embodiment, each heat exchanger coil 205 has a corresponding drain tank, heating system, and liquid line solenoid valve. Further, air blown through the respective heat exchanger coil 205 by the fan 210 is drawn from the bottom air intake 202A.

Fig. 12B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 12A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 12B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B, wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 12A-i and 12A-ii. Exemplary FIG. 12B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B (wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured to effect three-sided airflow discharge) and one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20C (wherein the separable air duct system is configured to effect two-sided air discharge).

Fig. 13A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

13A-i illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are arranged in a triangular configuration. As air is drawn into the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the bottom air inlet 202, each of the heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are separated from each other by a dividing wall to separate the corresponding air flows produced by the corresponding fans 210A, 210B, and 210C. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with three-sided airflow discharge, wherein each heat exchanger coil 205 is disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, and when all fans 210 and heat exchanger coils 205 are activated, no airflow outlet 212 is blocked.

12A-ii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are arranged in a triangular configuration. As air is drawn into the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the bottom air inlet 202, each of the heat exchanger coils 205A, 205B, and 205C are separated from each other by a dividing wall to separate the corresponding air flows produced by the corresponding fans 210A, 210B, and 210C. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured to have two-sided airflow emissions by: the outlet 212A corresponding to the heat exchanger coil 205A is closed and the heat exchanger coil 205A and the fan 210A are deactivated so that there is no working fluid flow thereto.

According to an alternative non-limiting embodiment, single-sided air discharge may be achieved by turning off both fans 210 and disabling the corresponding heat exchanger coils 205.

In the exemplary fig. 13A-i and 13A-ii non-limiting exemplary embodiment, each heat exchanger coil 205 has a corresponding drain tank, heating system, and liquid line solenoid valve. Further, air blown over the respective heat exchanger coil 205 is drawn in from the bottom air intake 202A.

Fig. 13B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 13A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 13B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B, wherein a separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 13A-i and 13A-ii. Examples 13A-iii illustrate one embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20B (wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured to effect three-sided airflow discharge) and one embodiment of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C (wherein the separable air duct system is configured to effect one-sided air discharge).

Fig. 14A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

14A-i illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with a single-sided airflow discharge in which each heat exchanger coil 205 is disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, with three openings 212 closed by blocking airflow to the heat exchanger coils 205B-D using a divider.

14A-ii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with four-sided airflow discharge, wherein each heat exchanger coil 205 is disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, with no outlet 212 being closed.

14A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with two-sided airflow discharge, with each heat exchanger coil 205 disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, 212B and D closed.

In the exemplary fig. 14A-i through 14A-iii non-limiting exemplary embodiment, each heat exchanger coil 205 has a corresponding drain tank, heating system, and liquid line solenoid valve. Further, air blown through the respective heat exchanger coil 205 by the fan 210 is drawn from the bottom air intake 202A.

Fig. 14B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 14A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

FIG. 14B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 14A-i, and the separable air duct system 215 is configured to enable side air flow discharge for the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C.

Fig. 15A shows a schematic block diagram of an architecture of a remote heat exchanger unit with configurable air discharge in accordance with at least one example embodiment described and recited herein.

15A-i illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-205D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. As air is drawn into the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the bottom air inlet 202, each of the heat exchanger coils 205A-205D are separated from each other by a dividing wall to separate the corresponding air flows produced by the corresponding fans 210A-210D. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with one-sided airflow discharge, with each heat exchanger coil 205 disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, with three openings 212 closed.

15A-ii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. As air is drawn into the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the bottom air inlet 202, each of the heat exchanger coils 205A-205D are separated from each other by a dividing wall to separate the corresponding air flows produced by the corresponding fans 210A-210D. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with four-sided airflow discharge, wherein each heat exchanger coil 205 is disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, with no outlet 212 being closed.

15A-iii illustrate top views of non-limiting example embodiments of remote heat exchanger units 200 in which heat exchanger coils 205A-D are arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. As air is drawn into the remote heat exchanger unit 200 via the bottom air inlet 202, each of the heat exchanger coils 205A-205D are separated from each other by a dividing wall to separate the corresponding air flows produced by the corresponding fans 210A-210D. Embodiments of the remote heat exchanger unit 200 may be configured with two-sided airflow discharge, with each heat exchanger coil 205 disposed adjacent to a corresponding outlet 212, with both outlets 212 closed.

In the exemplary fig. 15A-i through 15A-iii non-limiting exemplary embodiment, each heat exchanger coil 205 has a corresponding drain tank, heating system, and liquid line solenoid valve. Further, air blown through the respective heat exchanger coil 205 by the fan 210 is drawn from the bottom air intake 202A.

Fig. 15B illustrates an exemplary environment for the remote heat exchanger unit of fig. 15A in accordance with at least some embodiments described and recited herein.

Within the transport unit 20 (see FIG. 1) are climate controlled zones 20A, 20B and 20C constructed from walls or barriers 25A and 25B.

Exemplary FIG. 15B illustrates one embodiment of a remote heat exchanger unit 200 in a climate controlled zone 20B, wherein the separable air duct system 215 is configured as in the exemplary FIGS. 15A-i, and the separable air duct system 215 is configured to enable side air flow discharge for the remote heat exchanger unit 200 in the climate controlled zone 20C.

As previously described, according to all of the example embodiments described and recited herein, alternatives may include one or more bi-directional fans 210X that exhaust airflow in one direction or the opposite direction (e.g., left to right or right to left). In some embodiments, each of the one or more bi-directional fans 210X may be an axial flow fan capable of rotating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. In various embodiments, each of the one or more bi-directional fans 210X may be an axial flow fan, a blower, an impeller fan, or the like.

Accordingly, the alternative embodiment of fig. 16A and 16B includes a bi-directional fan 210X that may have symmetrical fan blades to effectively control the direction of airflow affected by the bi-directional fan 210X depending on, for example, the direction of rotation of the fan blades. The design of the bi-directional fan 210X enables a single discharge implementation (as in fig. 16A and 16B) in which the air flows through both heat exchangers 205XA, 205XB flow in the same direction. The design of the bi-directional fan 210X also enables a double discharge implementation (fig. 17A and 17B) in which the air flows through the two heat exchangers 205XA, 205XB flow in opposite directions. Further, unlike other embodiments described and/or recited herein, no damper is required and the emissions may be interchanged. The embodiments illustrated in fig. 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B and described and/or recited further herein are not limited to two embodiments of bi-directional fan 210X. In contrast, there are many embodiments, for example, implemented by the bi-directional fan 210X on the order of a multiple of two or three.

Fig. 16A shows a schematic block diagram illustrating unidirectional discharge of air from a remote heat exchanger unit, e.g. right to left. A portion of the return air 1605 passes through the heat exchanger coil 205XA and is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XA to be discharged as air 1610A that has been heat exchanged with the heat exchanger coil 205 XA; and another portion of the return air 1605 is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XB and passed through the heat exchanger coil 205XB to be discharged as air 1610B that has been heat exchanged with the heat exchanger coil 205 XA.

Fig. 16B shows a schematic block diagram illustrating the unidirectional discharge of air from a remote heat exchanger unit, e.g. left to right. A portion of the return air 1605 is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XA and passed through the heat exchanger coil 205XA to be discharged as air 1610A that has been heat exchanged with the heat exchanger coil 205 XA; another portion of the return air 1605 passes through the heat exchanger coil 205XB and is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XB to be discharged as air 1610B that has been heat exchanged with the heat exchanger coil 205 XB.

For the example embodiment of fig. 16A and 16B that implements unidirectional air discharge, the symmetrical fan blades of bi-directional fans 210XA and 210XB rotate in a common direction depending on the intended discharge direction.

As previously mentioned, according to all example embodiments described and recited herein, alternatives thereof may include: one or more bi-directional fans 210X that exhaust air flow through, for example, heat exchange from one or more heat exchanger coils disposed below the fans 210X; and/or one or more bi-directional fans 210X that exhaust air flow through a plurality of heat exchangers that may be disposed below or beside the respective fans. In such an embodiment, each of the one or more bi-directional fans 210X may be an axial flow fan capable of rotating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. In various embodiments, each of the one or more bi-directional fans 210X may be an axial flow fan, a blower, an impeller fan, or the like.

Fig. 17A shows a schematic block diagram illustrating bi-directional venting of air from a remote heat exchanger unit. A portion of the warm return air 1705A passes from right to left through the coil 205XA and is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XA to be expelled to the left as cool air 1710A; and another portion of warm return air 1705B is drawn through coil 205XB from left to right and through bi-directional fan 210XB to be drawn to the right as cool air 1710B.

Fig. 17B shows a schematic block diagram illustrating bi-directional venting of air from a remote heat exchanger unit. A portion of the warm return air 1705A passes from left to right through the coil 205XA and is drawn by the bi-directional fan 210XA to be expelled to the right as cool air 1710A; and another portion of warm return air 1705B is drawn from right to left through coil 205XB and through bi-directional fan 210XB to be expelled to the left as cool air 1710B.

For the example embodiment of fig. 17A and 17B that implements bi-directional air discharge, the symmetrical fan blades of bi-directional fans 210XA and 210XB rotate in opposite directions according to the respective intended discharge directions.

Fig. 18A shows a side view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit 1800 drawing through a coil design controlling airflow direction. As the air 1805 passes through the coil 205YA, the fan 210YA may draw the air 1805 therethrough to exit as air 1810A. Moreover, the fan 210YB may be turned off and/or intentionally blocked, for example, by an optional baffle or damper, to provide unidirectional discharge of air. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the fan 210YB may draw air 1805 therethrough to be expelled as air 1810B. Moreover, the fan 210YA may be turned off and/or intentionally blocked, for example, by an optional baffle or damper, to provide unidirectional discharge of air. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, both fans 210YA and 210YB may draw air 1805 therethrough to be expelled as air 1810A, 1810B, respectively, providing bi-directional discharge of air.

Moreover, when the remote heat exchanger unit 1800 includes an optional flapper or damper to block the flow of air exiting therethrough, the optional flapper or damper may be fully open, fully closed, or partially open, as desired for a particular application. Similarly, one or both of fans 210YA and 210YB may be turned on at a reduced speed, thus resulting in a greater discharge of air drawn by fans operating at higher speeds and a smaller discharge of air drawn by fans operating at lower speeds. If both fans 210YA and 210YB are turned on at a reduced rate, the discharge of air drawn by the respective fans may be substantially similar.

Fig. 18B shows a top view of a schematic block diagram of a suction through coil design for a remote heat exchanger unit 1800 that allows for one or two-way venting of air in accordance with at least the example embodiment of fig. 18A. As the air 1805 passes through the coils 205YA and 205YB, the fans 210YA and 210YB may draw the air 1805 from the two coils therethrough to be expelled as air 1810A and 1810B in both the left and right directions, respectively. As described above, either of the fans 210YA, 210YB may be turned off and/or intentionally blocked, for example, by an optional damper or door. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, each of the fans 210YA, 210YB may be an axial flow fan, a blower, an impeller fan, or the like.

Fig. 19A shows a side view of a schematic block diagram of a remote heat exchanger unit 1900 that controls the direction of airflow drawing through a coil design. As the air 1905 passes through the coil 205YA, fans 210YA and 210YB stacked on top of the coil 205YA may draw the air 1905 therethrough to be expelled as air 1910A and 1910B in both the left and right directions. Thus, fig. 19A illustrates the bi-directional discharge of air. As noted above, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, each of the one or more bi-directional fans 210X may be an axial flow fan, a blower, an impeller fan, or the like.

Also, similar to the embodiment of fig. 18A and 18B, the remote heat exchanger unit 1900 may optionally include a damper or door to block the flow of air exiting therethrough, and the optional damper or door may be fully open, fully closed, or partially open, as desired for a particular application. Similarly, one or both of fans 210YA and 210YB may be turned on at a reduced speed, thus resulting in a greater discharge of air drawn by fans operating at higher speeds and a smaller discharge of air drawn by fans operating at lower speeds. If both fans 210YA and 210YB are turned on at a reduced rate, the discharge of air drawn by the respective fans may be substantially similar.

Fig. 19B shows a top view of bi-directional air discharge according to the example embodiment of fig. 19A.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without deviating from the scope and spirit of the invention. The various embodiments disclosed herein are therefore not to be considered in a limiting sense, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Aspects of the invention

It should be appreciated that any of the following aspects may be combined:

aspect 1. A configurable remote heat exchanger unit of a transport climate control system, the configurable remote heat exchanger unit providing climate control within a climate controlled space of the transport unit, and the configurable remote heat exchanger unit comprising:

an air inlet configured to receive air into the configurable remote heat exchanger unit;

at least one heat exchanger coil configured to condition air received through the air intake;

an air outlet configured to direct air out of the configurable remote heat exchanger unit; and

a separable air duct system configured to variably direct air within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Aspect 2 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of aspect 1, further comprising at least one fan that directs air received through the air inlet through the at least one heat exchanger coil to the air outlet.

Aspect 3 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 or 2, wherein the separable air duct system includes a plurality of ducts through which air is directed in separate lateral directions within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Aspect 4 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 or 2, wherein the separable air duct system includes a plurality of ducts through which air is directed in separate vertical directions within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Aspect 5. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the separable air duct system includes two ducts through which air is directed in a direction about 180 ° apart within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Aspect 6 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the separable air duct system includes three ducts through which air is directed in a direction separated by about 90 ° within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

Aspect 7 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the separable air duct system includes a plurality of ducts, at least one of the plurality of ducts having a baffle therein for directing air flow therein.

Aspect 8 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the separable air duct system includes a plurality of ducts, at least one of the plurality of ducts having a configurable cross-section for varying the airflow velocity therethrough.

Aspect 9 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the separable air duct system comprises a plurality of ducts, at least one of the plurality of ducts having disposed therein a configurable shutter for altering airflow therethrough.

Aspect 10 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of aspect 9, wherein the shutter is configured to be manually variably openable.

Aspect 11 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of aspects 2 to 10, wherein at least one fan is a bi-directional fan.

Aspect 12 the configurable remote heat exchanger unit of any one of aspects 2 to 11, wherein at least one fan is disposed on top of at least one heat exchanger coil.

Aspect 13. A configurable air duct system of a remote heat exchanger unit, the configurable air duct system comprising:

at least one air container engaged with a corresponding air outlet of the remote heat exchanger unit; and

at least two configurable air ducts cooperatively discharging air passing therethrough via at least one air container,

wherein one or more of the at least two configurable air ducts has a variable louver for adjusting the airflow therethrough.

Aspect 14. The configurable air duct system of aspect 13, wherein the variable louvers are manually variably opened.

Aspect 15 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 or 14, wherein at least one configurable air duct has a baffle therein for directing an air flow therethrough.

Aspect 16 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 to 15, wherein at least one configurable air duct has a variable cross section for adjusting the air flow velocity therethrough.

Aspect 17 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 to 16, wherein at least two configurable air ducts have respective openings through which air exits the configurable air duct system in different directions.

Aspect 18 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 to 17, wherein at least two configurable air ducts have respective openings in separate sides.

Aspect 19 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 to 18, wherein at least two configurable air ducts have respective openings in separate vertical directions.

Aspect 20 the configurable air duct system according to any one of aspects 13 to 19, further comprising a detachable flexible hose connected to one of the at least two configurable air ducts, respectively.

The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms "a," "an," and "the" or even without these modifiers, may refer to the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise. The terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components.

With respect to the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that detailed changes can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention, particularly in matters of structural materials employed, as well as shapes, sizes and arrangements of parts. The word "embodiment" as used in this specification may, but need not, refer to the same embodiment. The description and the embodiments are merely examples. Other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims that follow.

Claims (14)

1. A configurable remote heat exchanger unit of a transport climate control system, the configurable remote heat exchanger unit providing climate control within a climate controlled space of the transport unit, and the configurable remote heat exchanger unit comprising:

an air inlet configured to receive air into the configurable remote heat exchanger unit;

at least one heat exchanger coil configured to condition air received through the air intake;

an air outlet configured to direct air out of the configurable remote heat exchanger unit; and

a separable air duct system configured to variably direct air within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

2. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit of claim 1, further comprising at least one fan that directs the air received through the air inlet through the at least one heat exchanger coil to the air outlet.

3. A configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the separable air duct system comprises two ducts, wherein air is directed through the two ducts in a direction 180 ° apart within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

4. A configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the separable air duct system comprises three ducts, wherein air is directed through the three ducts in directions 90 ° apart within the configurable remote heat exchanger unit.

5. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the separable air duct system comprises a plurality of ducts, wherein at least one of the plurality of ducts has a baffle for directing air flowing therein.

6. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the separable air duct system comprises a plurality of ducts, wherein at least one of the plurality of ducts has a configurable cross-section for varying the airflow velocity therethrough.

7. A configurable remote heat exchanger unit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the separable air duct system comprises a plurality of ducts, at least one of the plurality of ducts having disposed therein a configurable shutter for varying the airflow therethrough.

8. The configurable remote heat exchanger unit of claim 7, wherein the shutter is configured to be manually variably openable.

9. A configurable air duct system of a remote heat exchanger unit, the configurable air duct system comprising:

at least one air container engaged with a corresponding air outlet of the remote heat exchanger unit; and

at least two configurable air ducts cooperatively discharging air passing therethrough via the at least one air container,

wherein one or more of the at least two configurable air ducts has a variable louver for adjusting the airflow therethrough.

10. The configurable air duct system of claim 9, wherein the variable louvers are manually variably openable.

11. A configurable air duct system according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein at least one of said configurable air ducts has a baffle therein for directing air flow therethrough.

12. A configurable air duct system according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein at least one of said configurable air ducts has a variable cross section for adjusting the air flow velocity therethrough.

13. A configurable air duct system according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the at least two configurable air ducts have respective openings through which air exits the configurable air duct system in different directions.

14. The configurable air duct system according to any one of claims 9 and 10, further comprising a detachable flexible hose connected to each of the at least two configurable air ducts.