GB2594088A

GB2594088A - Containerized power supply with multiple drive units

Info

Publication number: GB2594088A
Application number: GB2005602.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Broderick John
Original assignee: Aggreko UK Ltd
Current assignee: Aggreko UK Ltd
Priority date: 2020-04-17
Filing date: 2020-04-17
Publication date: 2021-10-20
Anticipated expiration: 2040-04-17
Also published as: GB2594088B; WO2021209632A1; EP4136333A1; GB202005602D0

Abstract

A containerized generator system 5, comprising a container (fig.1, 10), at least one electrical generator 15a, a plurality of drive units 20a, 20b, wherein at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered or offset arrangement. The drive unit may be a diesel engine and the container may be an ISO container. The system may comprise and exhaust system 120a that may comprise a conduit, silencer and after treatment system (e.g. a catalyst and DEF system). The exhaust system may vent through the roof and the silencer/ treatment may be staggered longitudinally/ laterally. There may be a ventilation system 35b with fan(s) (fig.1 40a, 40b) and/or crawl space(s). A method of assembling/ repairing or producing a containerized system as previously described and optionally operating one or more drive units. A containerized electrical supply unit comprising a generator, container, plurality of drive units and one or more exhaust systems comprising a conduit angled upwardly, transitions through a bend 135b that is angled away from the roof and a subsequent part angled toward the roof of the container.

Description

CONTAINERIZED POWER SUPPLY WITH MUTIPLE DRIVE UNITS

FIELD

The present disclosure describes a containerized power supply unit having multiple drive units. Such units may comprise a plurality of drive units for driving electrical generators provided in a container.

BACKGROUND

Containerised power supply systems are readily transportable, and can be deployed at sites at which supply of electric power to the site from a power distribution network is not available, prohibitive or insufficient for the needs at site. Such generator systems may also be used where there is an absence of power networks, or indeed where a typically-used power network has been disrupted in some manner (e.g. due to acts of nature). In some cases, the system may be used to feed power to an existing network.

Such transportable generator systems may be stand alone, or may be modular in so far as the power output at site can be provided cumulatively from multiple transportable generator systems, e.g. where a single power output is provided Typically, such generator systems can be deployed and operated from containers that meet standardised shipping container requirements (e.g. dimensions, etc.). Those containers may be modified from a standard container in so far as access panels, air inlet panels, or the like may be provided. In some cases, the generator systems may be deployed for a period of time, and then removed from site and used elsewhere. These standardised shipping containers are sometimes referred to as ISO containers, which have predefined sizes, shipping weight constraints, etc. Traditionally, such containerized power supplies have contained an electrical generator operated by a drive unit such as a diesel or other fossil fuel engine and these units work well for a wide range of applications. However, providing an electrical generation system in a container, such as a standard ISO shipping container, having limited volume, presents challenges over providing such systems in unconstrained footprints. These problems are particularly acute in containerised generator systems that comprise multiple generators, e.g. configured for higher power operation. In this case, multiple generators units, engines and associated services all have to be packed inside the limited container footprint.

This background serves only to set a scene to allow a skilled reader to better appreciate the following description. Therefore, none of the above discussion should necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that that discussion is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge. One or more aspects/embodiments of the invention may or may not address one or more of the background issues.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure are defined by the independent claims appended herewith. Optional features are defined by the dependent claims appended herewith.

In some examples there are described containerised generator systems, and methods for power supply.

According to a first example is a containerized generator system, comprising: a container; at least one electrical generator; a plurality of drive units configured to drive the at least one electrical generator to generate power; wherein at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered or offset arrangement relative to at least one or each other of the drive units.

The containerized generator system may contain two, e.g. exactly two, no more and no less, drive units. In an alternative example, the containerized generator system may contain four, e.g. exactly four, no more and no less, drive units.

The container may be an ISO container. The container may be a 20ft (6.06m) long container, e.g. a 20ft (6.1m) ISO container. For example, the container may be substantially 8ft (2.43m) wide and/or 8.5ft (2.59m) high. In other examples, the container may be a 40ft ISO container, e.g. 40ft (12.2m) long.

At least one or each drive unit may be an engine, such as a diesel engine. By providing a plurality of smaller drive units, there may be more flexibility and efficiency in how the power generation unit can be operated, e.g. a greater operating range may be efficiently achievable. However, providing a plurality of drive units of that size in an ISO container, particularly a 20ft (6.06m) ISO container may present significant challenges, particularly as access to the drive units to check, service and/or repair may be required.

The above arrangement may provide an efficient and cost effective containerized generator system having a good operating range and access but in a compact container footprint. It may be easier to fit and assemble the containerized generator system.

The drive units may be staggered or offset in a longitudinal or front-back direction of the container and/or the drive units. An end of at least one or each of the drive units may extend beyond a corresponding end of at least one or each other drive unit, e.g. when seen from a side or profile view. An opposite end of the at least one or each other drive unit may extend beyond an opposite end of the at least one or each of the drive units, e.g. when seen from a side or profile view. One end of at least one or each drive unit may extend beyond a corresponding end of at least one or each other drive unit and at least one other end of the at least one or each drive unit may overlap with the at least one or each other drive unit, e.g. when seen from a side or profile view.

Each drive unit may be provided in parallel with another drive unit. The drive units may be provided side aby side. Each drive unit may be provided in the same orientation as at least one or each other drive unit. Corresponding ends of the drive units and/or electrical generators may all face or be provided towards the same end of the container. Each drive unit and/or generator may optionally be identical.

The electrical generators may also be staggered. The electrical generator(s) may comprise an alternator. The containerized generator system may comprise a plurality of electrical generators. Each drive unit may be connected to and/or configured to drive a respective, associated electrical generator.

The containerized generator system may comprise one or more exhaust systems. Each exhaust system may comprise at least one portion of conduit. One or each of the exhaust systems may be formed from modular pipework. At least one or each exhaust system may comprise a silencer. At least one or each exhaust system may comprise an after treatment system for reducing exhaust gasses, which may comprise one or more of: a catalyst, a fluid trap such as a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system, a particle filter, and/or the like. The containerized generator system may comprise a plurality of the exhaust systems, and each drive unit may be provided with a respective, associated exhaust system. At least part, a majority or all of the exhaust system for a given drive unit may be provided or extend upwardly, above or higher than the associated drive unit. The exhaust system may be configured to vent via an upper surface or roof of the container. At least part, e.g. at least the silencer and/or after treatment system, of the exhaust system of at least one or each drive unit may be positioned in a staggered or offset arrangement with respect to at least part, e.g. a silencer and/or after treatment system, of at least one or each other exhaust system. The silencer and/or after treatment system of the exhaust system of at least one or each drive unit may be positioned in an arrangement in which they are laterally and/or transversely staggered or offset (e.g. in the width and/or length direction) with respect to the container relative to a silencer and/or after treatment system of at least one or each other exhaust system. The silencer and/or after treatment system of the exhaust system of at least one or each drive unit may be positioned forwardly of the silencer and/or after treatment system of at least one or each other exhaust system At least part, such as an initial part, of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend or be angled upwardly, e.g. initially upwardly from an associated drive unit. At least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system extend, e.g. initially extend, obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container and/or the associated drive unit. At least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend, e.g. initially extend, obliquely from the associated power unit, e.g. between 5° and 300 obliquely or off centre from a line parallel with a longitudinal direction of drive unit or container, e.g. between 100 and 200 obliquely or off centre from the line parallel with the longitudinal direction drive unit or container.

At least a part, such as the initial part, of the conduit of at least one of the exhaust systems may extend upwardly, e.g. initially upwardly, from an associated drive unit and may transition through a bend to a subsequent part of the conduit that extends at an angle closer to the horizontal than the preceding, e.g. initial part of the conduit. At least the subsequent part of the conduit may form a double bend or kink in the conduit. The subsequent part of the conduit may be more angled away from the top or roof of the container relative to a preceding and/or further part of the conduit. The subsequent part of the conduit may extend generally horizontally in use or at least more horizontal that a preceding part of the conduit. The preceding part of the conduit may be the initial part of the conduit that extends from the drive unit.

At least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend in a direction that is parallel with, but off-centre or displaced in the transverse direction of the container and/or power unit from, the centre line in the longitudinal direction drive unit or container, e.g. in a longitudinal direction of the container and/or drive units. The at least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system that extends in parallel may extend in parallel with at least part of the conduit of at least one other exhaust system, e.g. in a longitudinal direction of the container and/or drive units. The part that extends in parallel may be or comprise a part that is downstream or towards to exhaust outlet relative to the obliquely extending part of the conduit.

A further part of the conduit may be angled upwardly, e.g. toward the roof or top of the container, e.g. with respect to the subsequent part of the conduit. The silencer and/or after treatment system, e.g. the catalyst, may be provided downstream or towards to exhaust outlet relative to relative to the further part and/or the part that extends in parallel.

The containerized generator system may comprise at least one ventilation or cooling system. The ventilation or cooling system may be configured to cool the interior of the container. The ventilation or cooling system may be configured to circulate air within the container. The ventilation or cooling system may comprise at least one, e.g. a plurality of fan units, e.g. two or four fan units. The fans may be centrifugal fans. At least part of at least one ventilation or cooling system, e.g. at least one fan unit, may be provided adjacent or directly above, or overlapping in a plan view, the subsequent part of the conduit of a corresponding exhaust system. The subsequent part and the further part of the exhaust system of at least one or each of the drive units may extend around two sides of corresponding fan units. The conduit of the exhaust system may be shaped so as to accommodate the fan unit, e.g. adjacent or proximate the subsequent part and/or the further part of the conduit of the exhaust system.

At least part of the silencer of the exhaust system may be accommodated by the conduit of the exhaust system, e.g. the subsequent part and/or the further part of the conduit of the exhaust system.

Optionally, the containerized generator system may comprise one or more, e.g. a plurality of, fuel tanks configured to provide fuel to the one more drive units. The containerized generator system may comprise a single fuel tank, which may individually feed each drive unit. Each drive unit may be provided with its own fuel tank and the fuel tanks of each drive unit may be in fluid communication so facilitate exchange of fuel between tanks.

The containerized generator system may comprise one or more anti-vibration systems for accommodating vibrations from the operation of the drive units. Optionally, at least one of the one or more electrical generators, at least one of the one or more engines and optionally at least one of the one or more fuel tanks and/or anti-vibration system may be provided together on a common sub-frame as a modular unit The containerized generator system may comprise a plurality of modular units. Each modular unit may comprise at least one of the electrical generators and at least one of the drive units. The or each drive unit of the modular unit may drive a respective generator of the modular unit. Each modular unit may comprise at least one of the one or more fuel tanks. The or each fuel tank of the modular unit may supply at least a respective drive engine of the modular unit. For example, each modular unit may comprise at least the sub-frame, the generator, the drive unit, the fuel tank and optionally the anti-vibration system of the modular unit, wherein the generator of the modular unit is driven by the drive unit of the modular unit and the drive unit of the modular unit is supplied fuel by at least the fuel tank of the modular unit. The vibrations produced by the drive unit of the modular unit may be suppressed by the anti-vibration system of the modular unit. Each of the drive unit, generator, fuel tank and optionally the anti-vibration system of the modular unit may be commonly supported by the sub-frame of the modular unit.

Each modular unit may comprise at least one of the ventilation or cooling systems. The ventilation or cooling system may be mounted at a top of the modular unit. The ventilation or cooling system may be mounted above, e.g. directly above, or higher than the drive unit and/or associated generator, in use.

The containerized generator system may comprise one or more, e.g. a plurality of, temperature control systems for controlling the temperature of the drive units. Each temperature control system may comprise a heat exchanger. The temperature control may comprise at least one fan, such as a centrifugal fan. The fan may be a low noise fan. The at least one fan may be configured to blow, suck or otherwise draw or force air through the heat exchanger, e.g. through a core of the heat exchanger. The fan may be mounted to an inlet or outlet surface of the heat exchanger, e.g. so as to blow or suck air through the heat exchanger. The fans and/or the heat exchangers may be arranged vertically, e.g. one on top of the other, in the container. The heat exchanger may be configured to transfer heat from a cooling fluid to air drawn or forced through the heat exchanger by the at least one fan. The temperature control system may be provided with a pump to circulate the cooling fluid, e.g. between the heat exchanger and an associated drive unit engine and/or generator.

The containerized generator system may comprise a controller for controlling operation of the engines and/or generators, e.g. in order to control the electrical output of the containerized generator system, e.g. a voltage and/or current output by the containerized generator system. The controller may be selectively switchable between operation modes, e.g. responsive to user selection and/or responsive to a control algorithm. The controller may be configured to selectively turn selected drive units on and/or off, e.g. dependent on demand. The controller may be configured to vary the combination of drive units running at any time, e.g. dependent on demand. The controller may be configured to vary, e.g. individually vary, the operation or level of operation of the drive units and thereby the generators, e.g. dependent on demand.

The container may be provided with one or more vents to allow air to be exchanged with an exterior of the container, e.g. responsive to operation of the fans or the temperature control modules.

The container may be in a generally cuboid form, e.g. having two long or elongate sides and two shorter ends, i.e. the container may elongate and longer than it is wide. The container may be or comprise an ISO container.

The containerized generator system may comprise a crawl space, e.g. behind an end of one or more of the drive units, such as an end of the one or more drive units that overlaps with an adjacent staggered drive unit in a side or profile view. Such a crawl space in an arrangement with staggered drive units may provide access to each drive unit.

In a second example described herein, there is a method of assembling, repairing or producing a containerized electrical supply unit according to the first example.

The method may comprise providing a container. The method may comprise inserting at least one electrical generator into the container. The method may comprise inserting a plurality of drive units into the container, wherein the drive units are configured to drive the at least one electrical generator to generate power. The method may comprise inserting the at least one generator and/or the plurality of drive units such that at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered arrangement relative to at least one or each other of the drive units.

The containerized electrical supply unit may be a containerized electrical supply unit according to the first example.

In a third example described herein, there is a method of operating the containerized electrical supply unit according to the first example. The method may comprise operating the containerized electrical supply unit so as to selectively run one or more of the drive units in order to drive the one or more electrical generators so as to generate electrical power. The method may comprise drawing power from the electrical storage system to an external load via one or more electrical connections of the containerized electrical supply unit. The method may comprise individually and/or independently operating one or more of the drive units in order to drive the one or more electrical generators so as to generate electrical power.

According to a fourth example described herein, there is provided a containerized electrical supply unit, comprising: a container; at least one electrical generator; a plurality of drive units configured to drive the at least one electrical generator to generate power; and one or more exhaust systems, each exhaust system comprising at least one portion of conduit, wherein at least part, such as an initial part, of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend or be angled upwardly, e.g. upwardly initially from an associated drive unit, and into a subsequent part; the subsequent part of the conduit may be angled more towards the horizontal relative to a preceding and/or a further part of the conduit; and a further part of the conduit that extends from the subsequent part may be angled upwardly, e.g. toward the roof or top of the container, e.g. with respect to the subsequent part of the conduit.

At least one or each exhaust system may comprise a silencer. At least one or each exhaust system may comprise an after treatment system, which may comprise one or more of: a catalyst, a fluid trap, a particle filter, and/or the like. The containerized generator system may comprise a plurality of the exhaust systems, and each drive unit may be provided with a respective, associated exhaust system. At least part, a majority or all of the exhaust system for a given drive unit may be provided or extend upwardly, above or higher than the associated drive unit. The exhaust system may be configured to vent via an upper surface or roof of the container. At least part, e.g. at least the silencer and/or after treatment system, of the exhaust system of at least one or each drive unit may be positioned in a staggered arrangement with respect to at least part, e.g. a silencer and/or after treatment system, of at least one or each other exhaust system.

At least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend, e.g. initially extend, obliquely from the associated drive unit. At least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system may extend, e.g. initially extend, at an off-centre angle from the associated power unit, e.g. between 5° and 300 obliquely or off centre from a line parallel with the longitudinal direction of the drive unit, e.g. between 100 and obliquely or off centre from a line parallel with the longitudinal direction of the drive unit The subsequent part of the conduit may form a double bend or kink in the conduit. The subsequent part of the conduit may be angled further away from the top or roof of the container relative to a preceding and/or further part of the conduit. The subsequent part of the conduit may extend generally horizontally in use or at least more horizontal that a preceding part of the conduit. The preceding part of the conduit may be the initial part of the conduit that extends from the drive unit.

The containerized generator system may comprise at least one ventilation or cooling system. The ventilation or cooling system may be configured to cool the interior of the container. The ventilation or cooling system may be configured to circulate air within the container. The ventilation or cooling system may comprise at least one, e.g. a plurality of fan units, e.g. two or four fan units.

At least part of at least one ventilation or cooling system, e.g. at least one fan unit, may be provided adjacent or directly above, or overlapping in a plan view, the subsequent part of the conduit of a corresponding exhaust system. The subsequent part and the further part of the exhaust system of at least one or each of the drive units may extend around two sides of corresponding fan units. The conduit of the exhaust system may be shaped so as to accommodate the fan unit, e.g. adjacent or proximate the subsequent part and/or the further part of the conduit of the exhaust system.

Optionally, at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered arrangement relative to at least one or each other of the drive units. The containerized electrical supply unit of the fourth aspect may separabley comprise any of the individual features described above in relation to the first example, regardless of whether those individual features were described separately or in combination with other features in relation to the first example Any of the containerized electrical supply units described above may represent a simple "drop and go" power supply arrangement that is easy to store and transport and can be deployed rapidly.

Any of the containerized electrical supply units described above may comprise a controller. The controller may be configured with a user interface or control panel. The controller may comprise at least one processing unit. The controller may be configured to control the operation of the containerized electrical supply unit, e.g. responsive to user input via the control panel or user interface. At least part or all of the controller may be provided within, e.g. wholly within, the container, e.g. within a primary compartment of the container.

The containerized electrical supply unit may be, comprise or be comprised in, or comprise one or more features of, the containerized electrical supply unit of the first example.

It will be appreciated that features analogous to those described in relation to any of the above aspects may be individually and separably or in combination applicable to any of the other aspects.

Apparatus features analogous to, or configured to implement, those described above in relation to a method and method features analogous to the use and fabrication of those described above in relation to an apparatus are also intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are: Figure 1 A perspective view from above of a containerized generator system; Figure 2 A side view of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; Figure 3 A view from a different side of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; Figure 4 A perspective view of the contents of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; Figure 5 A side view of the contents of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; Figure 6 A view from a different side of the contents of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; Figure 7 A plan view or view from above of the contents of the containerized generator system of Figure 1; and Figure 8 An end view of the contents of the containerized generator system of Figure 1.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Figures 1 to 3 show exterior views of a containerized generator system 5 comprising a container 10, which in examples is a standard 20 foot (6.1m long) hi-cube ISO container. The container 10 houses electrical generation apparatus that comprises a plurality of electrical generators 15a, 15b each driven by a corresponding drive unit 20a, 20b (see Figures 4 to 8) in order to generate electricity that is provided from an electrical outlet 25.

In this example, the containerized generator system 5 beneficially has exactly two electrical generators 15a, 15b and corresponding drive units 20a, 20b but in other examples, more electrical generators and drive units can be provided.

In examples, the containerized generator system 5 comprises separate cooling systems 30 for cooling the drive units 20a, 20b and ventilation modules 35a, 35b for ventilating the interior of the container 10.

In examples, two ventilation systems are provided. The ventilation systems each comprise roof mounted ventilation modules 35a, 35b, the ventilation modules 35a, 35b each comprising a ventilation outlet 50 and a ventilation fan 40a, 40b configured to suck air out from the interior of the container 10 and out through the corresponding ventilation outlet 50. Particularly, the ventilation fans 40a, 40b are configured to suck air out from a compartment of the container 10 that houses the drive units 20a, 20b and generators 15a, 15. The container 10 is provided with ventilation inlets 45, which in examples comprise loured ventilation inlets 45 in one end of the container, e.g. in doors at one end of the container 10. In this way, the ventilation fans 40a, 40b are operable to suck air from outside of the container 10 into the interior of the compartment in the container that houses the drive units 20a, 20b and generators 15a, 15 and then out through the corresponding ventilation outlets 50a, 50b provided in the roof of the container proximate the ventilation fans 45. The ventilation modules 35a, 35b are mounted side by side in the roof of the container between the roof over a compartment that houses the cooling systems 30 and the silencers, catalysts and exhaust outlets (shown together in staggered roof mounted modules 52) for the drive units 20a,20b.

The container 10 houses the cooling systems 30 for cooling the drive units 20a, 20b in a separate compartment to the compartment that houses the drive units 20a, 20b and generators 15a, 15. The cooling systems 30 each comprise a cooling fan 55a, 55b, and the cooling fans 55 are arranged in vertically distributed / stacked manner. The container 10 is provided with a vertical stack of cooling fans Son each side. The cooling fans 55 can be, in examples, low noise centrifugal fans. The cooling fans 55 are provided adjacent an associated air inlet 60 and are arranged to suck air from outside the container 10 into the container 10 via the associated air inlet 60 and then force the air through a heat exchanger 62 in order to cool liquid coolant that is circulated to the drive units 20a, 20b. Thereafter, the air that has passed through the heat exchangers is vented out via a cooling air outlet 65 in the roof of the container 10, i.e. in the roof of the compartment that houses cooling fans 55. In this way, the ventilation modules 35 are mounted in the roof of the container 10 between the silencers, exhausts and after treatment systems (shown together in the modules 52 located in the roof of the container) of the drive units 5 and the cooling air outlet 65 of the cooling systems 30. The cooling fans 55 in examples are mounted on the inlet side of the associated heat exchanger and are configured to push air through the associated heat exchanger. However, it will be appreciated that other arrangements may be possible.

The compartment that houses the cooling systems 30 for cooling the drive units 20a, 20b is provided at one end of the container 10 and is accessed through doors in the corresponding end of the container 10.

On one side of the container 10, as shown in Figure 2, the container 10 comprises the air inlets 60 for the cooling systems 30 in the vertically stacked configuration, a fuel fill point 70, an exhaust treatment fluid filling port 75, double access doors for accessing the compartment of the container 10 that houses the drive units 20a, 20b and electrical generators 15a, 15b, and an access door 80 for accessing a control panel for controlling operation of the containerized generator system 5.

The opposite side of the container 10 comprises further vertically stacked air inlets 60 for the cooling systems 30, a further fuel fill point 70 so that refuelling can be carried out from either or both sides, another set of double access doors 80 for accessing the compartment that houses the drive units 20a, 20b and generators 15a, 15, another exhaust treatment fluid filling port 75 and access doors for accessing electrical protection systems (i.e. circuit breakers) and the electrical output 25 through which the electricity generated by the electrical generators 15a, 15b is output. In this example, two circuit breakers are provided, i.e. one per generator 15a, 15b, through which power is supplied to a common electrical output 25. However, it will be appreciated that other arrangements may be possible.

Figures 4 to 8 show various views of the contents of the container 10 of the containerized generator system 5, i.e. Figures 4 to 8 show the containerized generator system 5 with the container 10 removed. As will be appreciated, the container 10 is elongate. In the examples shown, the containerized generator system 5 has two generator sets 100a, 100b, each generator set 100a, 100b comprising the generator 15a, 15b and the associated drive unit 20a, 20b that is configured to drive the associated generator 15a, 15b in order to generate electricity. In this case, each generator 15a, 15b is in the form an alternator. Each drive unit 20a, 20b is in the form of a diesel engine that is connected to the associated generator 15a, 15b and operable to turn the associated generator 15a, 15b in order to generate electricity.

Each drive unit 20a, 20b may be provided with an exhaust treatment system, such as provision of an exhaust fluid treatment system (such as a diesel exhaust fluid or DEF) and/or a catalyst. Fitting the exhaust treatment system into the space constrained ISO container presents a considerable challenge and requires very specific layouts of the contents of the container 10, especially a standard ISO container, particularly a standard 20ft ISO container.

In the example shown, the generator 15a, 15b of each generator set 100a, 100b is positioned longitudinally within the container 10 with respect to the associated drive unit 20a, 20b of the generator set 100a, 100b. That is, each generator 15a, 15b is located at one end of its associated drive unit 20a, 20b in a longitudinal direction of the container 10 and/or the drive unit 20a, 20b.

Each generator set 100a, 100b is staggered and offset longitudinally within the container 10 with respect to the other generator set 100a, 100b in the longitudinal direction of the container. This may involve each generator 15a, 15b and each drive unit 20a, 20b being respectively staggered and offset longitudinally within the container 10 with respect to the other generator 15a, 15b and other drive unit 20a, 20b respectively in the longitudinal direction of the container. That is, one of the generators 15a, 15b is positioned closer to one end of the container 10 than the other of the generators 15a, 15b and one of the drive units 20a, 20b is positioned closer to one end of the container 10 than the other of the drive units 20a, 20b. Each of the generator sets 100a, 100b is oriented the same way around, with the respective generators 15a, 15b being arranged towards the same end of the container 10 with respect to the associated drive units 20a, 20b, as opposed to a top to tail arrangement. This may facilitate easier connection of the generator sets 100a, 100b to mutual services.

The containerized generator system 5 also comprises a fuel tank 105. In this example, the fuel tank 105 is a common fuel tank shared between both drive units 20a, 20b. However, alternatively, each drive unit 20a, 20b could be provided with its own fuel tank, optionally with a fluid connector therebetween in order to balance out fuel levels.

The drive units 20a, 20b are provided with an exhaust treatment system that includes a fluid exhaust treatment, such as a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) treatment system. This injects a chemical (usually in liquid form) into the exhaust to remove undesirable combustion products such as (but not limited to) NO from the exhaust gasses. This exhaust treatment system usually operates in conjunction with an appropriate catalyst. In this example, each drive unit 20a, 20b is provided with its own dedicated exhaust gas treatment fluid tank 110 for storing the fluid used to treat the exhaust gasses. In this example, the exhaust gas treatment fluid tanks 110 are provided at opposite ends of the respective generator sets 100a, 100b. That is, in this example, one of the exhaust gas treatment fluid tanks 110 are provided at the generator 15a end of the associated generator set 100a and the other of the exhaust gas treatment fluid tanks 110 is provided at the drive unit 20b end of the associated generator set 100b. In this example, the exhaust gas treatment fluid tank 110 for each respective generator set 100a, 100b optionally overlaps the other of the generator sets in a side view (see e.g. Figs 4 to 7). The above arrangement may represent an efficient use of space for a multi-generator set containerized generator system.

A crawl space 115a is optionally provided between the generator set 100b that is furthest from the compartment of the container 10 that houses the cooling systems 30a, 30b and the exhaust gas treatment fluid tank 100 for the other generator set 100a and/or the generator 15a of the other generator set 100a. A crawl space 115b is also provided between the generator set 100b that is offset furthest from the compartment of the container 10 that houses the cooling systems 30a, 30b and the compartment of the container 10 that houses the cooling systems 30a, 30b. The above crawl spaces both contribute to easier access for repair and assembly in a manner that makes good utilisation of the available space, and particularly of the staggered generator set 100a, 100b arrangement.

Each drive unit 20a, 20b respectively comprises a respective exhaust system 120a, 120b. Each exhaust system 120a, 120b comprises modular pipework that is connected together to define a particular flow path / conduit. Modular pipework can be optimised for any given design and/or manufacture, and may result in a cost effective and easier to assemble exhaust system, particularly when fitting into a container that is constrained in size and access, such as an ISO container. One or more or each of the sections 125a, 125b, 130a, 130b, 140a, 140b of one or each exhaust system 120a, 120b described herein may be provided as or comprised in a separate module of the modular pipework system. In particular, each exhaust system 120a, 120b comprises an oblique section 125a, 125b that extends obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the container and/or the associated drive unit 20a, 20b. For example, the oblique section 125a, 125b may extend at an angle greater than 0° up to and including 20°, optionally 1°<angleM 5°, relative to the longitudinal direction of the associated drive unit 20a, 20b and/or the container 10. The exhaust systems 120a, 120b comprise a bend section 130a, 130b over which the respective exhaust system 120a, 120b transitions from extending at an angle more towards the vertical towards an angle more towards the horizontal. The bend section 130a, 130b may comprise a transition of the respective exhaust system 120a, 120b from vertical or obliquely to the vertical to horizontal or at least an angle that is closer to the horizontal than vertical or at least closer to horizontal than the section that is vertical or obliquely to the vertical. Optionally, the bend section 130a, 130b may be an initial part of the exhaust system 120a, 120b that extends out from the respective drive unit 20a, 20b. Optionally, the bend section 130b and the oblique section 125b are the same section, i.e. the section 130b/125b both goes through a bend and extends obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container 10 and/or the corresponding drive unit 20a, 20b. Optionally the oblique section 125a is provided after the bend section 130a, i.e. the oblique section 125a is provided downstream from the drive unit 20a and further towards an outlet 135a of the exhaust system 120a in a flow path from the drive unit 20a to the outlet 135a of the exhaust system 120a than the bend section 130a. The outlets 135, 135b of each exhaust system 120a, 120b vent through the roof of the container 10.

In some examples, at least one of the exhaust systems 120a can go through a double bend. That is, in sequence along the exhaust system 130a in a direction from a power unit 20a side of the exhaust system 120a to the exhaust outlet 135 side of the exhaust system 120a, the exhaust system 120a extends through: the bend section 130a in which the angle of the exhaust system 120a bends from a direction relatively closer to vertical to a direction relatively closer to the horizontal, and then through a second bend section 130c in which the angle of the exhaust system 130a increases towards the vertical and then away from the vertical again.

Optionally, the oblique section 125a, 125b may comprise one or more one or more or each of the bend sections 130a, 130b and 130c or a section following one of the bend section 130a, 130b, 130c. That is, one or more or each of the bend sections 130a, 130b and 130c or a section following one of the bend section 130a, 130b, 130c can extend obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the container 10a and/or the associated drive unit 20a, 20b when viewed in a plan view.

Optionally a section 140a, 140b of the exhaust system 120a, 120b after the oblique section 125a, 125b (i.e. downstream of oblique section 125a, 125b) may extend in parallel to the longitudinal direction of the associated drive unit 20a, 20b and/or the container 10 or at least at a smaller oblique angle to the longitudinal direction of the associated drive unit 20a, 20b and/or the container 10 than the corresponding angle of the oblique section 120a, 120b.

Optionally a dosing point 145 for dosing the exhaust treatment fluid from the exhaust gas treatment fluid tank 110 may be provided in each exhaust system 120a, 120b, and in the example shown is provided in the bend sections 130a, 130b.

Optionally, at least one or each of the exhaust systems 120a, 120b extend around the ventilation modules 35a, 35b and may be shaped so as to accommodate the ventilation modules 35a, 35b. For example, at least a portion of the exhaust system 120a, 120b that is downstream (e.g. along the flowpath towards the outlet 135a, 135b of the exhaust system) relative to the bend section 130a, 130b may overlap (e.g. be provided directly below) the corresponding ventilation module 35a, 35b. In this way, the ventilation modules may be conveniently located and make good use of the limited space within the container 10.

The silencer and/or catalyst of each exhaust system 120a, 120b (shown together in staggered modules 52 located in the roof of the container) are optionally provided at a portion of the exhaust system 120a, 120b downstream / closer to the respective outlet 135a, 135b than the portion of the respective exhaust system 120a, 120b that is below the ventilation modules 35a, 35b. The staggered silencer/ catalyst modules 52 are offset / staggered in the lateral (width) direction of the container and the entirety of each silencer / catalyst module 52 is provided entirely forwardly / rearwardly of each other in the longitudinal direction. This may provide a convenient arrangement for locating the required exhaust treatment system in the limited container 10 volume.

The twin drive unit 20a, 20b arrangement may permit the drive units to be operated together or individually, e.g. each drive unit 20a, 20b may be controlled to operate at the same output or individually to provide different outputs. In this way, a wide range of operations may be provided.

The specific examples are given in order to provide understanding and variations thereon would be apparent from the teaching provided herein. As such, the scope of protection is defined by the claims and not limited to the specific examples provided herein.

Claims

Claims 1. A containerized generator system, comprising: a container; at least one electrical generator; a plurality of drive units configured to drive the at least one electrical generator to generate power; wherein at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered or offset arrangement relative to at least one or each other of the drive units in a longitudinal or front-back direction of the container and/or the drive units.
2. The containerized system of claim 1, wherein: each drive unit is provided in parallel with an other drive unit; an end of the drive unit extends beyond a corresponding end of the other drive unit when seen from a side or profile view; and an opposite end of the other drive unit extends beyond an opposite end of the drive units when seen from a side or profile view.
3. The containerized generator system of any preceding claim, wherein: the container is an ISO container; at least one or each drive unit is a diesel engine.
4. The containerized system of any preceding claim, comprising one or more exhaust system, each exhaust system may comprise at least one portion of conduit, a silencer and an after treatment system for reducing exhaust gasses, the after treatment system comprising one or more of: a catalyst and a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system.
5. The containerized generator system of claim 4, wherein the containerized generator system comprises a plurality of the exhaust systems, and each drive unit is provided with a respective, associated exhaust system and wherein at least part, a majority or all of the exhaust system for a given drive unit may be provided upwardly of the associated drive unit.
6. The containerized generator system of any of claims 4 or 5, wherein the exhaust systems are configured to vent via a roof of the container and at least the silencer and/or after treatment system of the exhaust system of at least one or each drive unit is positioned in a staggered arrangement with respect to the longitudinal and/or lateral direction of the container relative to the silencer and/or after treatment system of at least one or each other exhaust system.
7. The containerized generator system of any of claims 4 to 6, wherein at least an initial part of the conduit of at least one exhaust system extends initially upwardly from an associated drive unit and transitions through a bend to a subsequent part of the conduit that extends at an angle closer to the horizontal than the initial part of the conduit.
8. The containerized generator system of any of claims 4 to 7, wherein at least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system extends obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container and/or the associated drive unit.
9. The containerized generator system of claim 8, wherein at least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system extends in a direction that is parallel with, but off-centre or displaced in the transverse direction of the container and/or power unit from, the centre line in the longitudinal direction drive unit or container.
10. The containerized generator system of claim 9, wherein the silencer and/or after treatment system of the exhaust system is provided downstream or further towards the outlet of the exhaust system than the part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system extends in a direction that is parallel with, but off-centre or displaced in the transverse direction of the container and/or power unit from, the centre line in the longitudinal direction drive unit or container.
11. The containerized system of claim 7 of any claim dependent thereon, comprising at least one ventilation or cooling system for cooling the interior of the container, the ventilation or cooling system comprising one or more fan units, wherein at least one of the fan units is provided adjacent, directly above, or overlapping in a plan view, the subsequent part of the conduit of a corresponding exhaust system.
12. The containerized system of any preceding claim, comprising one or more crawl spaces, wherein: one of the crawl spaces is provided behind an end of one or more of the drive units; and/or one of the crawl spaces is provided between the drive units.
13. A method of assembling, repairing or producing a containerized electrical supply unit according to any preceding claim, the method comprising: providing a container; inserting a plurality of electrical generators into the container; inserting a plurality of drive units into the container such that at least one or each of the drive units is located within the container in a staggered arrangement relative to at least one or each other of the drive units in a longitudinal direction of the container and/or the drive units, and coupling the drive units to respective drive units so that the electrical generators are drivable by the drive units so as to generate power.15. A method of operating the containerized electrical supply unit of any preceding claim, the method comprising: operating the containerized electrical supply unit so as to selectively run one or more of the drive units in order to drive the one or more electrical generators so as to generate electrical power.16. A containerized electrical supply unit, comprising: a container; at least one electrical generator; a plurality of drive units configured to drive the at least one electrical generator to generate power; and one or more exhaust systems, each exhaust system comprising at least one portion of conduit, wherein at least part of the conduit of at least one or each exhaust system extends or is angled upwardly from an associated drive unit, and transitions through a bend into a subsequent part that extends in a direction that is angled away from a roof of the container relative to the preceding part of the conduit; and a further part of the conduit that extends from the subsequent part is angled more toward the roof or top of the container relative to the subsequent part of the conduit.