Advanced insulating container with nanotechnology coating

Abstract

Advanced insulating container with nanotechnology coating for the preservation and protection of contents, comprising a base insulating container (1) with each side coated with a layer of nanotechnology material (4) and fibers (2) treated with nanotechnology molecules with hydrophobic and thermal maintenance capacity.

Description

Field of the invention The invention falls within the field of advanced packaging technologies and material preservation. In more detail, it uses nanotechnology molecules to create a perfluoroalkyl-free coating, which gives the material hydrophobic, heat-insulating and moisture-control properties. The intelligent closure system and integrated features, such as the thermal sensor and antimicrobial coating, represent an innovation in the field of biocompatible modular containers. Prior art In the field of preservation and protection of delicate goods and materials, the industry has constantly pursued the development of innovative solutions aimed at improving the effectiveness of the insulating containers used for this purpose. The central issue concerns the need for a preservation system that not only maintains the physical and chemical properties of the contents unaltered but also meets high standards of environmental sustainability and safety for human health. Today's insulated containers are designed to provide optimal protection against a wide range of harmful agents, such as moisture, light, extreme temperatures and contaminants. Among the existing solutions, there are insulating containers made of advanced materials and innovative technologies, which offer high resistance and durability. For example, some containers can be lined with layers of waterproof and heat-insulating materials, which help maintain a constant internal temperature and protect the contents from external temperature variations. Additionally, some containers may be provided with advanced sealing systems, such as snap buttons or sealing gaskets, which provide additional protection against the ingress of moisture, dust or other contaminants. In addition to physical protection, insulated containers may also be designed to provide additional protection against damage from UV light and bacteria, through the use of special films and coatings. Finally, many insulated containers are designed with ease of use and convenience in mind, with features like ergonomic handles, stackable designs, and compact sizes for efficient transportation and storage. With regard to industrial patents, it is noted that patent WO2024059940 (Al) describes an environmentally friendly insulating packaging system comprising at least a base layer and an insulating layer arranged on said base layer in one or more areas. The insulating layer consists of a plurality of block-shaped pockets having a substantially rectangular or cubic shape in each of the areas. The base layer may be folded to join substantially rectangular shapes and align with the inside surface of all or part of a shipping container, such as a box. Alternatively, the insulated packaging system may take the form of a bag or a collapsible box. Although this solution may offer a certain degree of thermal insulation and a certain flexibility in configuration, it is not specifically aimed at fully solving the central problem identified in the first part of the introduction, namely the need for a preservation system that maintains the physical and chemical properties of the contents unaltered, while simultaneously meeting high standards of environmental sustainability and safety for human health. Patent WO2024057582 (Al), by way of non-binding example, comprises an internal space into which a foam thermal insulation material is injected and a separation space having dimensions that allow the passage of the thermal insulation material during foaming. The separation space connects the interior space and a machinery room and comprises opposing surfaces consisting of an inner wall, a side plate, and an outer surface, of foam thermal insulation material. The invention is therefore provided with a hardened foam which acts as an obstacle to heat exchange. Despite the innovation of such system in the management of foam thermal insulation material, it does not specifically address the aforementioned environmental sustainability and human health safety requirements, nor does it focus on practicality and ease of use in contexts of preservation of sensitive goods and materials. Therefore, although the existing solutions presented by patents WO2024059940A1 and WO2024057582A1 offer progress in the field of insulating packaging, they do not fully meet the needs expressed in the first part of the introduction. The need is therefore revealed in the development of an invention which not only guarantees the physical and chemical integrity of the contents, but is also designed with careful consideration for environmental impact and health safety. The elaboration of this inventive concept, which comprehensively responds to these requirements, will be described in detail in the subsequent sections of the present patent document. The purpose of the present industrial property application is to propose a new and alternative solution by proposing a container that is characterized by the use of nanotechnological molecules which, by binding to the fibers of the container material, form a dense network free from perfluoroalkyl substances and therefore compliant with biocompatibility regulations. Its configuration allows obtaining a product with hydrophobic properties, thermal maintenance capacity and humidity reduction, fundamental elements for the optimal preservation of the contents in addition to a series of other small and very advantageous measures described below. Description of the invention The present patent application for industrial invention intends to describe and claim an advanced insulating container device with nanotechnological coating. From a practical point of view, the container finds application in the pharmaceutical sector, offering a safe and hygienic solution for the transport of tablet blisters, freeze-dried medicine sachets and other single-use pharmaceutical products. Furthermore, it is also suitable for the food industry, ensuring the safe preservation of food and beverages during transportation and storage. Thanks to its innovative design, the container is also ideal for the shipping industry, offering complete protection against humidity and a reliable barrier during unpressurized air transport or for deliveries in bad weather conditions. Finally, thanks to its breathability and stain resistance features, the container is perfect for packaging upholstery, ensuring effective protection without compromising the quality of the fabric. In the horticultural sector, it ensures the optimal conservation of flowers and plants during transport and distribution, maintaining the freshness and integrity of the products. In a landscape where the protection of sensitive materials is a top priority, such innovations stand as tangible examples of progress and ingenuity in the industry. The basic structure of the insulating container has been cleverly designed to maximize its thermal and moisture-resistant properties. This goal was achieved thanks to the strategic integration of nanotechnological molecules, which contribute to consolidating its effectiveness. In short, through a refined and highly technological structure, these containers not only preserve the integrity of their contents, but also offer a superior level of safety and reliability. The container in question includes, in a basic version, each side covered with a layer of nanotechnological material that acts as an insulating layer. Fibers treated with nanotechnological molecules are attached to the container, giving it the ability to repel water and maintain a constant temperature. In a further version, a lid is provided, optionally provided with a button closure which, by means of snap buttons, guarantees an airtight seal of the container. In a further version, a nanotechnological film with UV filter is positioned on the upper part of the lid, whose purpose is to protect the contents from harmful ultraviolet rays, keeping the insulating properties of the lid intact and respecting biocompatibility regulations. In a further version, on the sides of the container, there are snap feet which serve to prevent any leakage of contents. Additionally, if necessary, a layer (possibly made of rice paper) is placed inside the lid, whose task is to retain hot vapors and humidity, ensuring optimal preservation of the contents. The aforementioned layer helps maintain an optimal microclimate inside the container, avoiding condensation and preserving the freshness and integrity of the contents. Rice paper is chosen for its natural absorbent properties and its compatibility with food, integrating perfectly with the other nanotechnological components of the system. The aforementioned button closure system, carefully integrated into the container lid, plays a crucial role in ensuring the protection and integrity of its precious contents. This sophisticated system, comprising snap buttons and snap feet, has been designed with the aim of preventing any risk of contents spilling in the event of accidental impacts or overturning. Its effectiveness in ensuring security is unquestionable, offering a guarantee of reliable protection. The fastening methodology of the snap buttons and snap feet has been designed with the utmost care to ensure a hermetic and secure closure of the container. However, despite the complexity of the system, its ease of use is a distinctive feature. The user benefits from a smooth and intuitive user experience, with the ability to open and close the container with maximum ease. An optional feature is the presence of an internal insulating plate, which is a fundamental component in the thermal insulation and protection mechanism. This plate is provided with a layer of nanotechnological material: optionally the latter is ceramic-based, silicon-based and / or in any other material with corrosion resistance, high thermal resistance, hardness, electrical insulation, chemical stability and ease of processing and possibly positioned between two layers of material also suitable for food contents that make up the insulating plate itself. The above food material, by way of example and not limitation, is composed of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP), or preferably pressed paper fiber. The layer in question, subjected to a targeted fixing process, adheres firmly to the fibers of the plate and the container, imparting a series of properties to the set. Among these, hydrophobia stands out, that is the ability to repel humidity, and the ability to maintain internal temperatures, guaranteeing an ideal environment for the preservation of sensitive goods. The present container is also provided with lipophobic capacity, which refers to the ability to repel oils, fats or oily substances in general, preventing their adhesion or penetration into the internal surface. The assembly between the insulating plate and the container fibers is made in such a way as to guarantee uniform distribution of the nanotechnological material and perfect adhesion to the internal surfaces, creating a continuous barrier which optimizes thermal insulation and water repellency. This assembly is crucial for maintaining the thermal properties of the container and ensuring that insulation performance is constant over time. The snap buttons and snap feet are designed to engage securely and quickly, providing tactile feedback to the user which confirms the container is properly closed. In an advantageous version, a self-cleaning antimicrobial internal coating of the insulating container is provided, which includes at least one nanotechnological active ingredient which interacts with light in the visible spectrum. This active ingredient is able to catalyze the photochemical reactions that lead to the decomposition of pathogens present on the internal surfaces of the container. The coating application process involves the adhesion of nanotechnology molecules containing photoactive functional groups to the inner surface of the insulating container, ensuring uniform and long-lasting coverage. The coating is designed to react to light in the visible spectrum, even at low intensity levels such as those commonly found in home and professional environments. Upon contact with light, the photoactive functional groups generate reactive oxygen species which have the property of attacking and disintegrating the cell walls of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, effectively eliminating them. This mechanism of action significantly reduces the need for manual cleaning, as the coating keeps the internal surfaces of the container hygienically clean through photo-induced activity. Pathogens are broken down without releasing harmful substances or dangerous residues, ensuring the container remains safe for contact with food and other sensitive contents. Furthermore, the self-cleaning of the coating helps maintain the insulating and hydrophobic properties of the container, as it prevents the accumulation of dirt and humidity that could compromise the effectiveness of the thermal insulation. The choice of nanotechnology materials for the coating also ensures compliance with biocompatibility regulations, making the advanced insulating container suitable for use in a variety of contexts, including healthcare and food. The self-cleaning antimicrobial internal coating, therefore, not only contributes to the hygiene and safety of the contents, but also to the ease of maintenance of the container itself, extending its life and reducing the frequency of cleaning required. The container, in further advantageous versions, includes a plurality of magnetic hooks coated with nanotechnological material designed to give modularity to said container, allowing the joining of multiple containers together. Optionally and advantageously, the aforementioned magnetic hooks, appropriately coated with nanotechnological material, are positioned on the external surface of the container and designed to maintain the insulating and safety properties even in the case in which several containers are joined together. These magnetic hooks are provided with an action structure which facilitates the joining and separation of containers. This mechanism is designed to ensure thermal insulation and safety of the contents even in multiple modular configurations. A further version includes at least one nanotechnological thermal sensor integrated into said internal insulating plate configured to detect the internal temperature and transfer the related data to a dedicated computer program, without affecting the thermal insulation properties of said container. The described container offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to adapt it to their specific needs without compromising its insulating and safety properties. First, in terms of size, the container may be customized to meet users’ space and capacity needs. This means that containers of different sizes may be made, from more compact dimensions for single use to larger and more capacious containers for large-scale storage needs. Furthermore, it may be made in a wide range of colors depending on the needs of each user. The insulating container lends itself to multiple uses, always guaranteeing high performance and optimal protection for its contents. First of all, thanks to its waterproofness of at least 18 hours, obtained through the use of a paper casing, it is able to keep its contents safe from humidity for long periods of time. The paper used to make the container is designed to resist pressure, bending and friction without compromising its malleability, ensuring durability over time without alterations. This ensures that the container always maintains its structural integrity, offering reliable protection even in harsh conditions. Finally, thanks to its ability to ensure better graphic printing performance, the container is ideal for customizing with logos, images and texts, avoiding common defects such as color smudges or inhomogeneity. This also makes it perfect for advertising or promotional purposes. Description of the figures The previous advantages, as well as other advantages and characteristics of the present invention, will be illustrated by referring to the attached figures, which are to be considered purely illustrative and not limiting or binding for the purposes of the present patent application, in which: - FIGURE 1 shows a view of the container 1 comprising a lid 5, both internally coated with fibers treated with nanotechnological molecules 2, which form a dense network which gives the container hydrophobic and heat-insulating properties. Inside, an internal insulating plate 3 is positioned, comprising layers of food-grade material, between which a layer of nanotechnological material 4 is inserted which contributes to thermal insulation. The aforementioned lid 5 is provided with a button closure system 7, with snap buttons 8 and snap feet 9 for an airtight seal. On the inside of the lid 5, a layer 6 is applied for vapor retention and a nanotechnological film with UV filter 11 to protect the contents from ultraviolet rays. - FIGURE 2 shows a detail of the button closure system 7: see the mechanism of the snap buttons 8 and the snap feet 9 which fit together perfectly, ensuring hermetic closure, are shown. Also visible are a nanotechnological thermal sensor 10 positioned between the two layers of the insulating plate as well as an antimicrobial internal coating 12 which covers the internal surfaces of the container. - FIGURE 3 shows a system of intelligent seals 13 which react to contaminants and the magnetic hooks 14 shown in proximity to the outer walls of the container, highlighting the possibility of joining multiple containers. - FIGURE 4 is a schematic of the operation of the nanotechnology thermal sensor 10 connected, via invisible connections, to an external mobile application which displays the internal temperature in real time. Detailed description of the invention The present invention will now be illustrated, purely by way of non-limiting or binding example with respect to the present inventive concept, as an advanced insulating container with nanotechnological coating for the preservation and protection of contents. With reference to Fig. 1, the basic insulating container 1 is shown, a fundamental element of the present invention which appears, by way of example only, as a rectangular shaped object, provided in a basic version with side walls and a base. In a preferred version, a lid 5 is also provided. Obviously the present container may take on various shapes depending on the type of use that the user will make of it. The internal surface of this container is coated with fibers treated with nanotechnological molecules 2, which, through a bonding process at the molecular level, form a dense network which gives the container hydrophobic, heat-insulating and lipophobic properties. These fibers are the heart of innovation, as they allow for the maintenance of an optimal internal environment for the preservation of contents without the use of harmful substances and respecting biocompatibility criteria. Inside the insulating container 1 there is a layer 6 made of nanotechnological material, essential for thermal insulation, optionally also strategically positioned between the layers of the plate 3 to maximize efficiency in insulation and in maintaining the temperature of the contents. The lid 5 of the container 1 is designed to ensure a safe and reliable closure. This is possible thanks to the button closure system 7, which includes snap buttons 8 and snap feet 9; these elements work in synergy to prevent any accidental release of the contents, even in the event of impacts or overturning. On the inside of the lid 5, there is a layer 6, which has the function of retaining hot vapors and humidity, helping to maintain the integrity of the contents. Above the lid 5, a nanotechnological film with UV filter 11 is applied which protects the contents from exposure to ultraviolet rays, a detail not to be overlooked for the preservation of food or materials sensitive to light. The container 1 is also provided with a nanotechnological thermal sensor 10, strategically positioned between the two layers of the internal insulating plate 3 to constantly monitor the temperature inside the container 1 itself. The internal surfaces of the container 1 are coated with an antimicrobial internal coating 12, which is activated by light and ensures a hygienic internal environment, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and cleaning. Adjacent to the button locking closure system 7 are the intelligent seals 13, which have the ability to react to contaminants, providing an additional level of protection and safety for the consumer. Finally, on the external walls of container 1 there are magnetic hooks 14, coated with nanotechnological material, which allow several containers to be joined together, making transport and space management easier. This modularity feature makes the invention extremely versatile and suitable for different contexts of use, both domestic and professional. Fig. 2 highlights the detail of the button closure system 7, showing the snap buttons 8 and the snap feet 9 which guarantee the hermetic closure of the container. Also visible is the internal antimicrobial coating 12 which covers the internal surfaces of the container, offering additional protection against the proliferation of bacteria and making cleaning easier thanks to its self-cleaning properties. Fig. 3 illustrates the intelligent seal system 13 which reacts to contaminants, an additional layer of security to maintain the integrity of the contents. The magnetic hooks 14, coated with nanotechnology material, are shown in proximity to the external walls of the container, allowing the modular combination of multiple units for greater versatility and ease of transport. In conclusion, the present description of the basic insulating container 1 with its innovative components, such as the nanotechnology molecule-treated fibers 2, the internal insulating plate 3, the ceramic-based nanotechnology material layer 4, the button closure system 7, the nanotechnology thermal sensor 10, and the antimicrobial internal coating 12, among others, represents a preferred embodiment of the overall patent idea. The nanotechnology thermal sensor 10 is placed between the two layers of the insulating plate 3, allowing the internal temperature to be monitored and the data to be transmitted to an external mobile application, as shown in Fig. 4. This sensor 10 is one of the key elements of the invention, as it provides real-time information on the internal environment of the container, thus ensuring optimal preservation of the contents. It will be readily apparent that numerous variations and modifications, such as in shape, dimensions, arrangements, and functionally equivalent parts, may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, characterized in that each of the sides is covered with at least one layer of nanotechnological material (4), arranged in said container (1) and with fibers (2) treated with nanotechnological molecules bonded to said container (1); said fibers (2) being suitable for providing hydrophobic and thermal maintenance properties.

2. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claim 1, wherein at least one internal insulating plate (3) comprises two layers of food material arranged one above the other.

3. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to preceding claims 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of magnetic hooks (14) coated with nanotechnological material are included, suitable for conferring combinable modularity to said container (1) allowing the joining of multiple containers together.

4. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claim 3, wherein said magnetic hooks (14) are suitable for maintaining thermal insulation even in multiple modular configurations.

5. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein a lid (5) is included comprising button closure (7) with snap buttons (8) suitable for hermetically closing said container (1).

6. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein a nanotechnological film with UV filter (11) is positioned on the lid (5) of the container (1), configured to protect the contents from UV rays whilemaintaining transparency, the insulating properties of the lid (5) and complying with biocompatibility standards.

7. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein a layer (6) is positioned on the internal side of said lid (5) for the retention of hot vapors and humidity.

8. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein said layer of ceramic-based nanotechnological material (4) is arranged between said two layers of food material that make up said insulating plate (3).

9. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein said layer in nanotechnological material (4) is ceramic-based, silicon-based and / or made of any other material that possesses the characteristics of resistance to corrosion, high thermal resistance, hardness, electrical insulation, chemical stability and ease of processing.

10. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein said fibers (2) treated with nanotechnological molecules are bonded to said insulating plate (3).

11. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein snap feet (9) are provided placed on the base to prevent leakage of contents.

12. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein lipophobic capacity is provided.

13. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to thepreceding claims, wherein said layer (6) is made of rice paper.

14. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to the preceding claims, wherein said food material comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP), or preferably pressed paper fiber.

15. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein intelligent seals (13) are positioned at the closure of the container (1) capable of detecting the presence of contaminants through a chemical reaction and signal this event through a visual or chromatic change.

16. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said intelligent seals (13) are capable of detecting the opening of the lid (5) and transferring the data of the opening to a program for a computer, installed on an external device capable of receiving such data and notifying it to a user.

17. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one nanotechnological thermal sensor (10) integrated in said internal insulating plate (3) is included; said sensor (10) being configured to detect the internal temperature and transfer the relative data to a dedicated computer program, installed on an external device capable of receiving this data by notifying it to a user.

18. Advanced insulating container (1) with nanotechnological coating, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an antimicrobial internal coating (12) is included, comprising an active ingredient capable of interacting with visible light to activate a selfcleaning function; this interaction being configured to decompose the pathogens and keep the container (1) sanitized.

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