Portable cooling system, device and method

Abstract

This document discloses a portable thermoelectric device comprising: a thermoelectric cooler; a probe configured to measure temperature within the device; a compartmentalized fan configured to circulate air within the device, the air having been cooled by the cold side of the thermoelectric cooler; an exhaust fan at least partially located within the device and in communication with an external environment, such that the exhaust fan is configured to dissipate heat from the hot side to the external environment; and a power source configured to receive a range of input voltages. In some embodiments, a first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment within the device, and a second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 831,395, filed on April 9, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Incorporated by Reference

[0004] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of refrigeration, and more particularly to the field of portable refrigeration. Portable cooling systems, devices, and methods are described herein. Background Art

[0006] More than 5 million U.S. residents take medications that require refrigeration within a narrow temperature range. Globally, the number is many times that. These medications typically cost thousands of dollars per year and are often vital to a patient’s health. Storage of these medications is key, as any extended time outside of the recommended temperature range can reduce their effectiveness. Almost half of the top fifty prescription drugs require refrigeration, and all fifty require storage below a maximum temperature. The problem is that in two recent studies, less than one in eight patients stored their medications within the recommended temperature range over a three-month period.

[0007] The main options for medication storage today are kitchen, workplace, and hotel refrigerators. However, refrigerators can be contaminated with mold or other foreign matter and have inadequate temperature control or uneven temperatures. In shared spaces, or even at home, refrigerators may be used by others who could move or damage medications. Shared refrigerators also do not protect the privacy of users who need medications. Finally, not all hotel rooms have refrigerators. In addition to the primary storage needs, other issues arise in safely cooling and protecting these medications while traveling (e.g., commuting, business travel, or vacation travel). The current standard method for traveling with refrigerated medications is to use ice packs. While convenient, they do not display the temperature of the medication while traveling and only provide a limited time to keep the medication within the desired temperature range. Ice or ice packs can even cause the temperature of the medication to drop below 32℉, which can freeze the medication and reduce its effectiveness.

[0008] Therefore, new and more accurate portable cooling devices are needed that address the many weaknesses of current storage and / or transportation options. Summary of the invention

[0009] There is a need for new and useful portable cooling systems, devices and methods. In particular, there is a need for systems, devices and methods that can accurately maintain internal temperature despite external temperature fluctuations.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable cooling device. In some embodiments, the device includes: a thermoelectric cooler including a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a probe configured to measure a temperature within the portable cooling device; a compartment fan configured to circulate air in the portable cooling device, the air having been cooled by the first side of the thermoelectric cooler; an exhaust fan at least partially positioned in the portable cooling device and in communication with an environment outside the portable cooling device, such that the exhaust fan is configured to discharge heat from the second side to the external environment; and a power supply configured to receive a range of input voltages. In some embodiments, the first input voltage causes a first temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment in the portable cooling device, and the second input voltage causes a second temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable cooling device. In some embodiments, the device includes a housing, including: a holder; a thermoelectric cooler, including a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a probe, configured to measure a temperature within the holder; a compartment fan, positioned in the housing and configured to circulate air in the housing, the air having been cooled by the first side of the thermoelectric cooler; an exhaust fan, at least partially positioned in the housing and connected to an environment outside the housing, such that the exhaust fan is configured to discharge heat from the second side to the environment; and a power supply, configured to receive a range of input voltages. In some embodiments, the first input voltage causes a first temperature difference between an internal environment in the housing and an environment outside the housing, and the second input voltage causes a second temperature difference between the internal environment and an environment outside the housing.

[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable cooling device, the portable cooling device comprising: an internal shell, including: a holder; a probe configured to measure a temperature within the internal shell; and a compartment fan positioned in the internal shell and configured to circulate cooling air in the internal shell; a thermoelectric cooler comprising a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, such that the thermoelectric cooler is adjacent to the internal shell; an exhaust fan connected to an environment outside the portable cooling device, such that the exhaust fan is configured to discharge heat from the second side of the thermoelectric cooler to the environment; and a power supply configured to receive a range of input voltages to achieve a desired temperature difference between an internal environment in the internal shell and an external environment.

[0013] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between the internal environment in the internal housing and the environment outside the portable cooling device, and the second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between the internal environment and the environment outside the portable cooling device.

[0014] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes an outer housing, such that the inner housing is located within the outer housing, and such that the insulating material is located between the outer housing and the inner housing.

[0015] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises one or more channels extending axially along the length of the inner housing between the inner housing and the outer housing for circulating air from the thermoelectric cooler.

[0016] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the bay fan is oriented toward the inner housing so that cooling air passes through the inner housing and then through the one or more channels.

[0017] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the bay fan is oriented away from the inner housing so that cooling air passes through the one or more channels and then through the inner housing.

[0018] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the exhaust fan is at least partially located within the outer housing.

[0019] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the holder comprises two or more holders. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the holder comprises a scale for measuring the weight of a container located therein.

[0020] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a display configured to indicate a weight of the container located in the holder.

[0021] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the power source comprises a battery, USB, cigarette lighter, or wall outlet.

[0022] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a display configured to indicate a temperature within the holder.

[0023] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, resulting in the first temperature difference being less than the second temperature difference. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

[0024] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the holder is configured to hold a container comprising medicine, cosmetics, consumables, or a combination thereof.

[0025] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a second thermoelectric cooler configured to increase the first temperature difference or the second temperature difference.

[0026] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler functions by convection.

[0027] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler functions by radiation.

[0028] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises a cover that can be reversibly coupled to the inner housing and a lock for reversibly locking the portable cooling device.

[0029] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a backup power source for use when the external power source is unavailable or inconvenient.

[0030] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a first heat sink adjacent to the bay fan, a second heat sink adjacent to the exhaust fan, and a heat transfer block adjacent to the thermoelectric cooler, the heat transfer block and the thermoelectric cooler being located between the bay fan and the exhaust fan.

[0031] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises an external temperature sensor arranged to measure a temperature of an environment outside the internal housing.

[0032] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the retainer is reversibly removable from the inner housing.

[0033] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a processor configured to implement a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; and changing an input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device.

[0034] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable cooling device, the portable cooling device comprising: a holder; a probe configured to measure a temperature within the holder; a compartment fan configured to circulate cooling air in or around the holder; a thermoelectric cooler comprising a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, such that the thermoelectric cooler is adjacent to the holder; an exhaust fan connected to an environment outside the portable cooling device, such that the exhaust fan is configured to discharge heat from the second side to the environment; and a power supply configured to receive a range of input voltages to achieve a desired temperature difference between an internal environment in the portable cooling device and an external environment.

[0035] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes an antenna configured to communicatively couple the portable cooling device to a remote computing device.

[0036] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a remote computing device and a display configured to indicate one or more of: a connection status between the portable cooling device and the remote computing device, a power status of the portable cooling device, and a temperature status of the holder or in the holder.

[0037] In any of the preceding embodiments, the antenna is configured as a transceiver.

[0038] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a remote computing device, such that the remote computing device includes a server, a mobile computing device, a wearable device, a laptop computer, or a desktop computer.

[0039] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the temperature measured by the probe is transmitted to a remote computing device.

[0040] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the transmitted temperature is transmitted and stored over time to maintain a history of the temperature.

[0041] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises a scale arranged to measure the weight of one or more containers located in the holder such that the weight is transmitted to the remote computing device.

[0042] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes an internal housing that at least partially encloses the probe, the compartment fan, the thermoelectric cooler, and the exhaust fan.

[0043] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the device further includes an outer shell disposed around the inner shell, wherein the insulating material is located between the inner shell and the outer shell.

[0044] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the exhaust fan is at least partially located within the outer housing.

[0045] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises one or more channels extending axially along the length of the inner housing between the inner housing and the outer housing for circulating air from the thermoelectric cooler.

[0046] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the bay fan is oriented toward the inner housing so that cooling air passes through the inner housing and then through the one or more channels.

[0047] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the bay fan is oriented away from the inner housing so that cooling air passes through the one or more channels and then through the inner housing.

[0048] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a base extending along an axial length of the portable cooling device such that the base is positioned to contact a surface on which the portable cooling device rests.

[0049] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between an internal environment in the portable cooling device and an environment external to the portable cooling device, and the second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between an internal environment in the portable cooling device and an environment external to the portable cooling device. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, resulting in the first temperature difference being less than the second temperature difference. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

[0050] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the holder is configured to hold a container comprising medicine, cosmetics, consumables, or a combination thereof.

[0051] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises a cover that can be reversibly coupled to the inner housing and a lock for reversibly locking the portable cooling device.

[0052] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a backup power source for use when the external power source is unavailable or inconvenient.

[0053] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a first heat sink adjacent to the bay fan, a second heat sink adjacent to the exhaust fan, and a heat transfer block adjacent to the thermoelectric cooler, the heat transfer block and the thermoelectric cooler being located between the bay fan and the exhaust fan.

[0054] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises an external temperature sensor arranged to measure a temperature of an environment external to the portable cooling device.

[0055] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the retainer is reversibly removable from the inner housing.

[0056] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a processor configured to implement a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; and changing an input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device.

[0057] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a portable cooling device without moving parts, the portable cooling device including a thermoelectric cooler, the thermoelectric cooler including a first side and a second side, such that the first side is configured to cool air within the portable cooling device and the second side is configured as a shell, the shell including: a holder; a probe configured to measure a temperature within the holder; and a power supply configured to receive a certain range of input voltages, wherein the first input voltage causes a first temperature difference between an internal environment in the shell and an environment outside the shell, and the second input voltage causes a second temperature difference between the internal environment of the shell and an environment outside the shell.

[0058] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first side comprises a cold side and the second side comprises a hot side having a heat sink.

[0059] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first side includes a cold side having a heat sink, and the second side includes a hot side having a heat sink.

[0060] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes an antenna configured to communicatively couple the portable cooling device to a remote computing device.

[0061] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a remote computing device and a display configured to indicate one or more of: a connection status between the portable cooling device and the remote computing device, a power status of the portable cooling device, and a temperature status of the holder or in the holder.

[0062] In any of the preceding embodiments, the antenna is configured as a transceiver.

[0063] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a remote computing device, such that the remote computing device includes a server, a mobile computing device, a wearable device, a laptop computer, or a desktop computer.

[0064] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the temperature measured by the probe is transmitted to a remote computing device.

[0065] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the transmitted temperature is transmitted and stored over time to maintain a history of the temperature.

[0066] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises a scale arranged to measure the weight of one or more containers located in the holder such that the weight is transmitted to the remote computing device.

[0067] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a base extending along an axial length of the portable cooling device such that the base is positioned to contact a surface on which the portable cooling device rests.

[0068] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, resulting in the first temperature difference being less than the second temperature difference. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

[0069] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the holder is configured to hold a container comprising medicine, cosmetics, consumables, or a combination thereof.

[0070] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises a cover and a lock, the cover being reversibly couplable to the housing, the lock being for reversibly locking the portable cooling device.

[0071] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a backup power source for use when the external power source is unavailable or inconvenient.

[0072] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further comprises an external temperature sensor arranged to measure a temperature of an environment external to the portable cooling device.

[0073] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the retainer is reversibly removable from the inner housing.

[0074] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the device further includes a processor configured to implement a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; and changing an input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] The above is the content of the invention, and therefore, it is necessarily limited in details. With reference to the accompanying drawings, the above aspects and other aspects, features and advantages of the present technology are described below in conjunction with various embodiments.

[0076] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown.

[0077] Figure 2 An embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown.

[0078] Figures 3A to 3B They are shown respectively Figure 2 Top and bottom perspective views of the external components of the cover of the device.

[0079] Figures 4A to 4B They are shown respectively Figure 2Top and bottom perspective views of the internal components of the cover of the device.

[0080] Figures 5A to 5B They are shown respectively Figure 2 Top and bottom perspective views of the outer housing of the device.

[0081] Figures 6A to 6B They are shown respectively Figure 2 Top and bottom perspective views of the base of the device.

[0082] Figures 7A to 7B They are shown respectively Figure 2 Top and bottom perspective views of the interior chamber of the device.

[0083] Figure 8 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the core of the device.

[0084] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of a circuit board of a device.

[0085] Fig.10 Another embodiment of a core for a portable cooling device is shown.

[0086] Fig.11 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown.

[0087] Fig.12 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device communicatively coupled to one or more remote computing devices is shown.

[0088] Fig.13 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device communicatively coupled to a computing device and / or a temperature probe is shown.

[0089] Fig.14 A graph illustrating temperature difference as a function of input voltage to a portable cooling device is shown.

[0090] Fig.15 A flow chart illustrating a method of cooling using a portable cooling device.

[0091] Fig.16 A flow chart illustrating a method of cooling using a portable cooling device.

[0092] Fig.17A Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown in an open configuration.

[0093] Fig. 17B Shown in closed configuration Fig.17A Portable cooling device.

[0094] Fig. 17C shows that it can be reversibly inserted into Fig.17A An embodiment of a container in a portable cooling device.

[0095] Fig.17D Shows Fig.17A A cross-sectional view of a portable cooling device.

[0096] Fig.17E Shown is the airflow from a compartment fan in one embodiment of a portable cooling device.

[0097] Fig.17F Shows the airflow from the compartment fan of the portable cooling device, which is oriented with Fig.17E The airflow is opposite.

[0098] Fig.18A Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown in an open configuration with a compartment fan in the cover of the device.

[0099] Fig.18B Shows Fig.18A A cross-sectional view of a portable cooling device.

[0100] Fig.19A Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown that includes a storage container having a track system.

[0101] Fig.19B Another embodiment of a storage container that is completely removable from a portable cooling device is shown.

[0102] Fig.19C Another embodiment of a storage container for a portable cooling device is shown.

[0103] Fig. 20A Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown in a closed configuration.

[0104] Fig. 20B Shown in open configuration Fig. 20A Portable cooling device.

[0105] Fig.21 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown that includes an axially extending support and a user input element located on a side wall of the body of the device.

[0106] Fig. 22 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown that includes a user input element on the cover of the device.

[0107] Fig.23Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown in which the various components are located in an axially extending support of the device.

[0108] Fig.24 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device is shown that includes a cooling chamber and one or more storage chambers.

[0109] The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Schematic diagrams are drawn to illustrate features and concepts and are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0110] The above is a summary of the invention, and therefore, it is necessarily limited in detail. The above aspects and other aspects, features and advantages of the present technology will now be described in conjunction with various embodiments. The inclusion of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure to these embodiments, but to enable any technician in the field to make and use the intended invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and can be modified without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. As described and illustrated herein, various aspects of the present disclosure can be arranged, combined, modified and designed in a variety of different plans, all of which are clearly intended and form a part of the present disclosure.

[0111] Several companies offer portable coolers. These coolers were tested for their ability to reach and maintain target temperatures, and all were found to be ineffective. Their cited specifications indicated that they would achieve the upper end of the recommended 8°C range only when the ambient temperature was 20°C (68°F) or lower. In addition, the temperature distribution inside the coolers was uneven. They all reported temperatures within the required range, but when they were tested with an accurate wireless thermometer, all were significantly above the reported range. The most accurate unit showed the internal temperature to be 10°F lower than the actual temperature. These findings indicate that currently available portable cooling units are inaccurate at best in an absolutely critical function: maintaining the temperature at the desired target temperature.

[0112] In this way, the systems and devices described herein are configured to accurately and precisely cool a container. In some embodiments, a container (e.g., a vial, a syringe, a bottle, a powder box, a blister pack, a tube, etc.) may include a drug, a therapeutic agent, a cosmetic, a consumable, or other fluid or liquid contained within the container.

[0113] In some embodiments, the systems and devices described herein are configured to accurately and precisely heat a container. In some embodiments, a container (e.g., a vial, a syringe, a bottle, a powder box, a blister pack, a tube, etc.) may include a drug, a therapeutic agent, a cosmetic, a consumable, or other fluid or liquid contained within the container.

[0114] In general, the systems and devices described herein are portable. For example, the systems and devices described herein are configured to be transported from a first location to a second location while maintaining temperature during transport. The systems and devices described herein are portable because they can be set or positioned anywhere - in a car, on a sink, in a hotel room, etc. The systems and devices described herein are also self-contained, so that the cooling system can be placed on the floor, on a table, in a refrigerator, in a car, in a carry-on bag (e.g., for flying), in a bag or container that allows air exchange, etc.

[0115] In general, the systems, devices, and methods described herein are configured to be used and / or performed by a user. The user may be a patient, an athlete, a doctor, a physician, a therapist, a parent, an individual with a chronic disease or disorder, a beautician, or any other individual who needs a portable refrigeration system or device.

[0116] Now turn to Figure 1 , which shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a portable cooling device 100. Although Figure 1 The components of the portable cooling device are shown in a specific order or stacking orientation, but those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein should not be limited to this specific order, and various embodiments may significantly deviate from the overall structure or order of the components of the portable cooling device shown in any figure described herein. The portable cooling device described herein is not limited by appearance or housing. For example, Figure 1 The device 100 includes a compartment fan 2, a thermoelectric cooler 4, an exhaust fan 6, a regulator 8, a power transistor 10, a processor 12, a power supply 14, a temperature probe 15, and an optional display 16, each of which will be described in turn below. The device shown and described herein is used to cool a compartment defined by a body or housing. Alternatively, the device shown and described herein can be used to heat a compartment defined by a body or housing, for example simply by reversing the voltage on the thermoelectric device. In some embodiments, the housing includes one or more holders and / or containers contained therein.

[0117] In some embodiments, Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the portable cooling device 100 includes a compartment fan 2 and an exhaust fan 6. The compartment fan 2 is used to distribute or circulate cooling air in the portable cooling device 100 or in the housing of the portable cooling device 100. Hot air will tend to rise toward the cover of the device, and cold air will tend to settle near the thermoelectric cooler 4. As a result, in the absence of the compartment fan 2, the holder and / or container in the housing may be subjected to uneven temperatures. Fig.17EAs shown in FIG. 1 , the compartment fan 1702 can be oriented toward the internal housing 1721 as shown by arrow 1729a, so that the compartment fan 1702 blows cooling air into the internal housing 1721, to one or more channels 1724, as shown by airflow arrows 1727a, and then blows downward to the heat sink 1704 and the compartment fan 1702. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. Fig.17F As shown, the compartment fan 1702 can be oriented away from the inner housing 1721 as shown by arrow 1729b or toward the exhaust fan so that the compartment fan 1702 blows cooling air into one or more channels 1724 until it reaches the inner housing 1721 as shown by airflow arrows 1727b. The exhaust fan 6 is used to pass through holes or vents 28 in the portable cooling device (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 2 The housing of the portable cooling device (shown) or portable cooling device removes or discharges excess heat from the thermoelectric cooler 4, as described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the compartment fan 2 and / or the exhaust fan 6 include two or more blades. The blades can have a symmetrical or asymmetrical distribution and / or shape. In some embodiments, the asymmetrical distribution and / or shape significantly reduces the noise level of the fan or adjusts the noise level of the fan to a preferred intensity.

[0118] In some embodiments, the portable cooling device includes a fan that has multiple functions. In some such embodiments, the compartment fan 2 is used to circulate cooling air and exhaust heated air from the thermoelectric cooler; in other embodiments, the exhaust fan 6 is used to circulate cooling air and exhaust heated air from the thermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, as described elsewhere herein, the portable cooling device does not include any fans (i.e., has no moving parts).

[0119] In some embodiments, Figure 1As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a thermoelectric cooler 4. The thermoelectric cooler 4 is used to cool the air within the portable cooling device or the housing of the portable cooling device to cool one or more containers contained in the portable cooling device, the housing and / or one or more holders. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler 4 includes a first side or cold side (optionally having a heat sink) and a second side or hot side having a heat sink. In some embodiments, the first side is opposite to the second side; in other embodiments, the first side is adjacent to or close to the second side (for example, the first side is angled relative to the second side, such as about 45 degrees to about 100 degrees; about 70 degrees to about 90 degrees, etc.). Various thermoelectric elements (for example, semiconductor elements, n-type elements, p-type elements, etc.) are arranged between the cold side and the hot side. The second side or hot side of the thermoelectric cooler 4 can be coupled to or coupled to the exhaust fan 6 in a communication manner to dissipate heat from the heat sink. The thermoelectric cooler 4 also includes a conductor metal, such as graphene, copper, aluminum, etc. The conductor metal is located on the side of the thermoelectric element (for example, a semiconductor element, an n-type element, a p-type element, etc.). The conductor metal isolates the heat by transferring the heat from the cold side or the hot side to the heat sink, which then transfers the heat to the air (on the hot side) or from the air (on the cold side). The structure and function of thermoelectric coolers will be readily understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art (see, for example, He et al., "Thermoelectric Devices: A Review of Devices, Architectures, and Contact Optimization," March 2018, Adv. Mater. Technol., 1700256, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0120] In some embodiments, the portable cooling device 100 includes a second thermoelectric cooler to increase the cooling capacity of the first thermoelectric cooler 4. For example, including a second thermoelectric cooler in series can increase the available temperature difference between the external environment and the internal environment, while a second thermoelectric cooler in parallel doubles the amount of heat that can be removed from the internal environment in the portable cooler. The first thermoelectric cooler and the second thermoelectric cooler can operate in series, such as in a stacked configuration or adjacent to each other.

[0121] In some embodiments, thermoelectric cooler 4 is replaced or supplemented by a compressor or other cooling mechanism known to those skilled in the art.

[0122] In some embodiments, Figure 1As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a regulator 8. The regulator 8 is used to maintain a clear and constant voltage level regardless of the voltage provided to the unit. The regulator 8 may include an electromechanical regulator, an electronic voltage regulator, an automatic voltage regulator, or any other regulator known in the art. In some embodiments, the regulator also includes internal current limiting, thermal shutdown, and / or safe area compensation.

[0123] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a power transistor 10 (eg, a MOSFET, an NPN transistor, etc.) The power transistor 10 is used to supply power to the thermoelectric cooler 4 and allow the power to be turned off and on.

[0124] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a processor 12. The processor 12 may be a general purpose microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other programmable logic device, or other discrete computer executable components designed to perform the functions described herein. The processor may also be formed by a combination of computing devices, for example, a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a DSP core, or any other suitable configuration.

[0125] In some embodiments, the processor 12 is coupled to the memory via one or more buses to read information from the memory and optionally write information to the memory. The memory can be any suitable computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions executed by the processor 12. For example, the computer-readable medium can include one or more of RAM, ROM, flash memory, EEPROM, hard disk drive, solid-state drive, or any other suitable device. In some embodiments, the computer-readable instructions include software stored in a non-temporary format. The software can be programmed into the memory or downloaded into the memory as an application. The software can include instructions for running an operating system and / or one or more programs or applications. When executed by the processor 12, the program or application can cause the processor 12 to implement a method. Some such methods are described in more detail elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the processor 12 is coupled to an antenna to transmit data containing temperature data and / or weight data to a computing device, as described elsewhere herein.

[0126] In some embodiments, Figure 1As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a temperature probe 15 (or one or more temperature probes). In some embodiments, the temperature probe 15 is coupled to the bottom of the wire mesh, one or more containers are contained in the wire mesh, or is coupled to a portion or surface of a holder contained within the portable cooling device 100. In some embodiments, the temperature probe 15 can be located between the compartment fan 1702 and the bottom 1725 of the internal chamber 1721 of the device 1700 (e.g., Fig.17D As shown). It will be appreciated that the temperature probe 15 may be located anywhere within or around the internal housing, within or around the external housing, or within the portable cooling device. For example, the temperature probe may measure the cold side of a thermoelectric cooler or an area or space adjacent to the cold side of a thermoelectric cooler. The temperature probe 15 is used to measure the temperature of the internal environment of the portable cooling device 100. The internal environment includes the temperature of an internal compartment, a holder, and / or one or more containers located in the internal compartment or holder. In some embodiments, the internal environment includes an internal chamber or cooling chamber of the portable cooling device. The temperature probe 15 may include a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, a resistance temperature detector, a thermocouple, or a semiconductor-based sensor. The temperature measured by the temperature probe 15 is transmitted to the processor 12 and optionally displayed by an optional display 16. In some embodiments, the temperature measured by the temperature probe 15 is transmitted to a remote computing device, as described elsewhere herein.

[0127] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the portable cooling device 100 includes a power source 14. The power source 14 is used to provide energy or power to one or more components of the portable cooling device 100 (e.g., a thermoelectric cooler, a fan, a display, etc.). In some embodiments, the power source includes a battery, a USB, a cigarette lighter container, or a wall outlet. In other embodiments, the power source 14 includes one or more solar panels. In some embodiments, the portable cooling device 100 is configured to receive power from various power sources so that the input voltage of the portable cooling device 100 varies with the power source 14. In some such embodiments, the cooling capacity of the portable cooling device 100 depends on the power source used, more specifically, the input voltage from the power source 14. In some embodiments, as the input voltage increases, the temperature difference between the internal compartment of the portable cooling device 100 and the external environment increases. In some embodiments, the personal cooling device also includes a backup power source, such as a second battery or backup battery or a rechargeable battery used when the external power source is not available.

[0128] In some embodiments, Figures 1 to 2As shown, the portable cooling device optionally includes a display 16 with or without touch responsiveness (e.g., a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (LCD), an in-situ switching LCD, a resistive touch screen LCD, a capacitive touch screen LCD, an organic light emitting diode (LED), an active matrix organic LED (AMOLED), a super AMOLED, a retina display, a tactile / tactile touch screen, or Gorilla Glass). The display 16 is configured to display the temperature of an interior compartment of the portable cooling device 100, a holder in the portable cooling device 100, and / or a container contained in the portable cooling device 100 or held by a holder in the portable cooling device 100. Fig.11 An embodiment of a portable cooling device 250 lacking a display is shown. In some such embodiments, a processor communicatively coupled to a temperature probe can transmit the temperature of a compartment (e.g., a storage compartment, a cooling compartment, etc.) in the portable cooling device and / or one or more containers therein to a remote computing device (e.g., a server, a computing device, etc.), such as Figures 12 to 13 shown.

[0129] Fig.12 An embodiment 400 of a portable cooling device 200 is shown that is communicatively coupled to one or more computing devices 60, 62. For example, the computing devices may include remote computing devices 60, 62. Non-limiting examples of remote computing devices include: a server 60, a mobile computing device 62, a wearable device, a laptop, a notebook, a netbook, a desktop computer, etc. There may be one-way or two-way communication between the portable cooling device 200 and the computing device 62, the portable cooling device 200 and the server 60, and / or the computing device 62 and the server 60. The portable cooling device 200, the computing device 62, and / or the server 60 may communicate wirelessly using Bluetooth, low energy Bluetooth, near field communication, infrared, WLAN, WiFi, CDMA, LTE, other cellular protocols, other radio frequency, or another wireless protocol. Additionally or alternatively, sending or transmitting information between the portable cooling device 200, the computing device 62, and the server 60 can occur via a wired connection (e.g., IEEE 1394, Thunderbolt, Lightning, DVI, HDMI, serial, Universal Serial Bus, parallel, Ethernet, coaxial, VGA, or PS / 2).

[0130] In some embodiments, Fig.13As shown, the portable cooling device 200 includes an external temperature probe 64, for example, on the housing or other surface of the portable cooling device 200. The external temperature probe 64 is configured to measure the temperature of the external environment. In other embodiments, the portable cooling device 200 is communicatively coupled to the external temperature probe 64, which is configured to measure the temperature of the external environment. Alternatively or additionally, the external temperature probe 64 can be communicatively coupled to the computing device 62 or integrated into the computing device 62. This external environment temperature measurement can be used to calculate the temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment in the portable cooling device. There can be one-way or two-way communication between the portable cooling device 200 and the computing device 62, the portable cooling device 200 and the external temperature probe 64, and / or the computing device 62 and the external temperature probe 64. The portable cooling device 200, the computing device 62, and / or the temperature probe 64 can use Bluetooth, low energy Bluetooth, near field communication, infrared, WLAN, WiFi, CDMA, LTE, other cellular protocols, other radio frequencies, or another wireless protocol for wireless communication.

[0131] In some embodiments, for example Figure 1 and 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the portable cooling device 100, 200 optionally includes an antenna 11. The antenna 11 can be located on a circuit board, or in or on a housing, or in or on a surface of the portable cooling device. The antenna 11 can be used as a receiver, a transmitter, or a transceiver (i.e., a transmitter and a receiver). The receiver receives and demodulates data received via a communication network. The transmitter prepares data according to one or more network standards and transmits the data via a communication network. In some embodiments, the transceiver acts as a receiver and transmitter for two-way wireless communication. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, a data bus is included on the circuit board so that data can be sent from or received by the portable cooling device via a wired connection.

[0132] Furthermore, in any of the portable cooling devices described herein, a display on the portable cooling device or a computing device communicatively coupled to the portable cooling device can be configured to indicate a connection status between the portable cooling device and a computing device (e.g., a remote computing device, a mobile computing device, a server, etc.). Alternatively or additionally, the portable cooling device can include a user interface, such as a light display (i.e., one or more LEDs), a speaker that emits a signal, or a tactile output that indicates a connection status, a temperature status, a power status, etc.

[0133] In some embodiments, Figure 1The portable cooling device 100 optionally includes a scale 13. The scale 13 can be positioned in the housing, such as below, below, or adjacent to the holder, so that the weight of one or more containers in the holder can be measured. In some such embodiments, the display 16 is configured to display the measured weight of the one or more containers or the combined weight of the holder and the one or more containers therein. Alternatively or additionally, as described elsewhere herein, the weight can be transmitted to a remote computing device.

[0134] In some embodiments, the portable cooling devices described herein are configured to receive, hold, or otherwise accommodate a holder. The holder may include two or more holders. In some embodiments, the holder is integrally formed in the housing, such as in an interior chamber of the housing; in other embodiments, the holder is removably connected to the housing, as shown and described elsewhere herein, for example, to allow holders of different shapes and / or sizes and / or depths and / or configurations to be positioned in the housing.

[0135] Figures 2 to 9 Various views and features of a portable cooling device 200 according to the present invention are shown. In some embodiments, the portable cooling device 200 can include an outer cover 18, an inner cover 21, a securing or locking mechanism 20, an outer housing 22, a display 24, a base 26, and an aperture 28 defined by the outer housing 22, each of which will be described in turn.

[0136] like Figures 2 to 7A As shown, the portable cooling device 200 may include a housing 9. The housing 9 includes one or more of an outer housing 22, an outer cover 18, an inner cover 21, a base 26, an airflow compartment or one or more channels 49, and an inner housing 50. The housing 9 is used to house one or more components described herein and / or to separate the internal environment in the portable cooling device from the external environment outside the portable cooling device.

[0137] like Figures 2 to 3B As shown, the portable cooling device 200 may include an external cover 18. The external cover 18 is removably coupled to the external housing 22 via a coupling mechanism (e.g., a hinge). The external cover 18 is also configured to be coupled to the external housing 22 via a fixing mechanism 20 (e.g., a latch, a lock, a threaded screw, a retaining washer, etc.) so as to isolate the internal environment in the portable cooling device 200 or defined by the housing 9 from the external environment outside or around the portable cooling device 200. Figures 3A to 3BAs shown, the outer cover 18 includes a cover surface 19 coupled to a plurality of side walls 17, which together define the outer cover 18. A fixing mechanism 20 is attached to one of the plurality of side walls 17 of the outer cover 18 and an outer housing 22. When the outer cover 18 is positioned adjacent to the outer housing 22 or fixed to the outer housing by the fixing mechanism 20, the fixing mechanism 20 is configured to seal and couple the outer cover 18 to the outer housing 22.

[0138] Figures 4A to 4B 1 and 2 are top and bottom views of the internal components of the cover 21, respectively. The internal components of the cover 21 are coupled to the outer cover 18 and are used to provide thermal insulation for the inner housing 50 in which one or more containers are stored and / or the thermoelectric cooler located in the inner housing 50. The outer cover 18 is coupled to the inner cover 21, wherein the volume 23 (e.g. Figure 3B The cover 18 (shown) is defined by an outer cover 18 and an inner cover 21. The volume 23 defined by the coupling of the outer cover 18 and the inner cover 21 is configured to receive an insulating material, such as foam, fiberglass, cellulose, etc.

[0139] Figure 2 and 5A 5B show various views of the outer housing 22. The outer housing 22 serves as another thermal insulation layer between the inner housing 50 and the thermoelectric cooler, a protective layer for the inner housing 50, and / or provides holes for ventilating the thermoelectric cooler. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the outer housing may have any shape: cylindrical, cubic, rectangular prism, trapezoidal prism, etc. Figure 2 and 5B As shown, the outer housing 22 defines an aperture 28 near the exhaust fan 6, so that the exhaust fan 6 removes or exhausts heat from the heat sink, so that warm or hot air from the heat sink is exhausted from the portable cooling device through the aperture 28. In some embodiments, the outer housing 22 defines more than one aperture 28, such as a vent; in other embodiments, the outer housing 22 defines at least one aperture 28, such as a vent. The outer housing 22 optionally includes a frame 25, which is configured to display the display 24 therethrough.

[0140] Figures 6A to 6BAn embodiment of a base 26 of a portable cooling device is shown. The base 26 is used to keep the portable cooling device away from or at a distance from the surface on which it is placed. Alternatively, as shown and described elsewhere herein, the base 26 can be used or configured to contact and rest on a surface. The base 26 includes or is formed by a curved surface; in other embodiments, the surface can be flat or flat. The base 26 defines a hole 30, which is an air intake hole for the exhaust fan 48 to cool the thermoelectric cooler 40. The base 26 also includes one or more legs 32, which are configured to keep the portable cooling device away from the surface on which it is placed and allow the exhaust fan 48 to intake air more efficiently. The legs 32 can also be used to keep the portable cooling device dry in a humid or wet environment (e.g., a bathroom, a kitchen, etc.). In some embodiments, the portable cooling device does not include legs, and instead is a base 26 of the device placed on a surface. The base 26 can be located at one end of the portable cooling device, or can extend along one side of the portable cooling device, as shown elsewhere herein.

[0141] Now turn to Figures 7A to 7B , which shows an embodiment of an internal housing 50 of a portable cooling device. The internal housing 50 includes a columnar structure, but may include any shape or structure. The internal housing 50 is used to receive a holder for holding, maintaining, accommodating or otherwise supporting one or more containers therein. In addition, the internal housing 50 is used to accommodate the core of the portable cooling device, which includes one or more fans and a thermoelectric cooler, as described elsewhere herein. Alternatively, the core can be positioned close to or adjacent to the internal housing 50 so that cooling air flows into and / or flows through the internal housing 50. The external housing 22 and the internal housing 50 define an airflow compartment or one or more channels 49, which are configured to allow air to flow from the cooling side fan and radiator to the top of the internal housing 50. In some embodiments, the one or more channels 49 can also guide cooling air from the cold side of the fan to the top of the internal housing 50 to provide rapid cooling and maintain a uniform temperature throughout the portable cooling device. In some embodiments, the insulating compartment is located outside the one or more channels.

[0142] Figure 8 An embodiment of a core 300 of a portable cooling device is shown. Figures 7A to 7BAs shown, the core 300 can be located in or adjacent to or near the internal housing 50 and includes a compartment fan 38; a thermoelectric cooler 40, including a cold side 42, an aluminum heat pipe 44, a hot side 46 and a thermoelectric device 47; and an exhaust fan 48, as described elsewhere herein. The compartment fan 38 and the exhaust fan 48 are located on the side of the thermoelectric cooler 40 so that the cold air from the cold side 42 of the thermoelectric cooler is distributed throughout the housing and / or to the holder located in the hole 39, and the heat from the hot side and heat sink of the thermoelectric cooler 40 is exhausted to the external environment through the exhaust fan 48. The components of the core 300 are positioned relative to each other using a frame 41, which can include pins, spikes, hypotubes, etc.

[0143] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the portable cooling device includes a core 350 without any moving parts, for example, the core 350 does not include a compartment fan and an exhaust fan, but includes a thermoelectric cooler 53, which includes a first side or cold side 52, an aluminum heat pipe 54, a thermoelectric device 59 and a second side or hot side 56. In some such embodiments, the housing of the portable cooling device may include or be formed of one or more materials that act as a heat sink for the thermoelectric cooler. For example, a portion or all of the housing may include aluminum, copper, or graphene, or other suitable materials known in the art, or be formed of aluminum, copper, or graphene, or other suitable materials known in the art. Alternatively or additionally, the frame 51 may include or form a portion of a heat sink for the thermoelectric cooler. In addition, in embodiments lacking compartment fans, the compartments within the portable cooling device may be cooled by convection (i.e., hotter air rises toward the cover of the device, and cooler air settles near the container in the compartment or holder).

[0144] In some embodiments, Fig. 9 As shown, the portable cooling device includes a circuit board 400. The circuit board 400 may include a wire-wound board or printed circuit board having a display 24, a regulator 8, a transistor 10, a processor 12, a power supply 14, etc., as described elsewhere herein. The circuit board 400 may be located between the base 26 and the housing 22.

[0145] Now turn to Figures 17A to 17D , which shows another embodiment of a portable cooling device 1700. The portable cooling device 1700 has a Fig.17A 1700 is shown in an open configuration, wherein an inner housing 1721 of the device 1700 is accessible. The inner housing 1721 is configured to store one or more containers therein. In the open configuration, the cover 1718 of the device 1700 is open or at least partially decoupled from the body or outer housing 1722, such as by a hinge mechanism, a snap-fit ​​connection, a thread-based mechanism, etc. Fig.17D As shown, the cover 1718 also defines a recess 1719 therein, which forms a portion of the cooling chamber or compartment 1726. Alternatively, the cover 1718 may not define a recess, or may include a fan or other components shown and described elsewhere herein. The cooling chamber or compartment 1726 can be airtight for efficient cooling of the containers stored therein and maintaining adequate cleanliness of the containers stored therein. The insulating material 1728 is located in the space defined between the outer shell 1722 and the inner shell 1721. The closed configuration of the device 1700 is Fig. 17B 1700 is shown in FIG. 1700 , where the cover 1718 is coupled or secured to the body or outer housing 1722. The device 1700 may include a lock that restricts access to the inner housing. For example, the lock may be a latch that may be combined with a lock, or may include a built-in lock, such as a combination lock, a biometric scanner (e.g., facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, etc.), a password or password input pad, etc. Fig.17A and 17D As shown, the device 1700 may also include one or more channels 1724 for distributing airflow at least partially around or along the inner housing 1721. The one or more channels 1724 may extend circumferentially around the inner housing 1721, extend axially along the length of the inner housing 1721, connect and / or fluidly couple the compartment fan 1702 and the inner housing 1271, etc. The channels 1724 may be substantially linear, have a curved pattern, have a herringbone pattern, have a wavy pattern, etc. Fig.17E As shown, the airflow indicated by arrow 1727a can pass through the inner housing 1721 and then pass through one or more channels 1724. Alternatively, as shown by arrow 1727b, the airflow can pass through one or more channels 1724 and then pass through the inner housing 1721. Both of these orientations are described in more detail elsewhere herein. Fig.17A and 17CAs shown, the device 1700 is configured to receive a holder 1714 in an internal housing 1721. The holder 1714 includes one or more axially extending slats 1716 that define one or more elongated holes 1715 therebetween. The elongated holes 1715 can be of a simple style; in other embodiments, the elongated holes 1715 allow cooling air to circulate through the one or more channels 1724 and / or the internal housing 1721 to more effectively and / or efficiently cool a container held by the holder 1714. The base of the holder 1714 can define one or more holes 1720 that allow cooling air generated by a cooling system to be transferred to the holder 1714. As described elsewhere herein, the device 1700 can include a cooling core that includes a compartment fan 1702; an exhaust fan 1706; heat sinks 1704, 1708; a cooling element 1710 (e.g., a thermoelectric cooler); and a heat transfer block 1712. As Fig.17D As shown, the components of the cooling core can be at least partially located within the outer shell 1722 and the inner shell 1721. As an example, Fig.17D As shown, the compartment fan 1702 and the heat sink 1704 are at least partially located in the inner housing 1721, while the cooling element 1710, the heat transfer block 1712, the heat sink 1708 and the exhaust fan 1706 are at least partially located in the outer housing 1722 or between the inner housing 1721 and the outer housing 1722.

[0146] Figures 18A to 18B Another embodiment of a portable cooling device 1800 is shown. Figures 18A to 18B The embodiment shown is Figures 17A to 17D The illustrated embodiment is the same in that the device 1800 includes a cover 1818; an outer housing 1822; one or more channels 1824; insulating material 1828; a removable insertable holder 1814; an inner housing 1821; a compartment fan 1802; an exhaust fan 1806; heat sinks 1812, 1808; a heat transfer block 1812; and a cooling element 1810. However, as Figures 18A to 18B As shown, the compartment fan 1802 is located in the cover 1818 Fig.17A 1818 . This configuration (i.e., compartment fan 1802 in cover 1818) may better protect compartment fan 1802 from liquids that may otherwise come into contact with it when the compartment fan is located at or near the bottom of inner housing 1821. However, Fig.17D Compared to the configuration shown (compartment fans 1702 at or near the bottom of the inner housing 1721), this configuration (compartment fans 1802 in the cover 1818) can limit the length of the container that can be positioned in the cooling compartment 1826 or the holder 1814 because Fig.17D The cooling compartment in 1726 Fig.18B The cooling compartment is 1826 long.

[0147] Figures 19A to 19C Various embodiments of a holder coupled to a cover 1918 of a portable cooling device 1900 are shown. The holder may include a track system 1930 for storing one or more containers. The holder may include at least two tracks 1930 that are parallel to each other and set apart. The at least two tracks 1930 are coupled to the cover 1918 at a joint point 1932 and extend axially from the cover 1918. The at least two tracks 1930 define a storage space 1934 therebetween for storing one or more containers therein. A sidewall 1915 may extend between the at least two tracks 1930 to further define the storage space 1934. The plate 1920 may engage the at least two tracks 1930 at an end opposite the cover 1918 and may optionally define one or more holes therein for allowing cooling air to more easily interact with the holder and, therefore, with the containers therein. When the rails 1930 extend between the plate 1920 and the cover 1918, the plate can be parallel to the cover. The storage space 1934 defined by the at least two rails 1930 can be further defined by a cover 1936 that is coupled to one or more of the following to completely enclose the storage space 1934: one or more of the rails 1930, the cover 1918, and the plate 1920. Fig.19A As shown, the cover 1918 may define a recess 1919 therein, or as shown in Figures 19B to 19C As shown, a flat or substantially flat inner surface 1917 may be included.

[0148] Figures 20A to 20B Another embodiment of a portable cooling device 2000 is shown. The portable cooling device 2000 is Fig. 20A is shown as a closed configuration in Fig. 20B The device 2000 includes a first end 2038a opposite a second end 2038b. The first end 2038a includes a compartment fan 2002, and the second end 2038b includes an exhaust fan, a heat sink, a cooling element, and a heat transfer block, similar to Fig.18B Alternatively, the device 2000 may include a Fig.17D All cooling components (e.g., fans, heat sinks, cooling elements, heat transfer blocks, etc.) are shown in the second end 2038b. The outer housing 2022 and the inner housing 2021 define an insulated space or area 2028. The hatch or cover 2040 and the inner housing 2021 define a cooling chamber 2026 for receiving a holder and / or one or more containers therein. Figures 20A to 20BAs shown, the hatch or cover 2040 is located in the side wall of the device 2000 at one side of the device 2000, opposite to one end of the device 2000 shown and described elsewhere herein. The hatch or cover 2040 is reversibly coupled and decoupled with the body 2022 by any mechanism known in the art (e.g., a hinge mechanism, a snap connection, a spring load, etc.). The device 2000 may also include one or more channels 2024 for circulating cooling air at least partially around the chamber 2026. The one or more channels 2024 may extend the axial length of the outer shell 2022 or the axial length of the cooling chamber 2026. The cooling chamber 2026 may extend into the first end 2038a, wherein the first end 2038a defines a cavity 2042 for circulating air. The cavity 2042 may be defined by the compartment fan 2002 and the first end 2038a.

[0149] Fig.21 Another embodiment of a portable cooling device 2200 is shown, which includes an axially extending base 2244 and a user input element 2246 located on the side wall of the body of the device. Fig.21 As shown, the device 2200 includes a base 2244 extending axially along the sidewall of the body 2222 (as opposed to a base at an end of the device, as described elsewhere herein). The base 2244 extends between a first end or cover end 2238a and a second end 2238b of the device 220. The base 2244 can include or be formed by one or more legs and / or can be formed by or include a panel having substantially or approximately the same width W as the device 2200. In any embodiments described herein, the portable cooling device can be configured to be positioned on the base 2244 and when positioned at the second end 2238b (at the Figures 6A to 6B The fan, heat transfer block, heat sink, cooling element, etc. can be placed in the second end 2238b of the device 2200 (e.g., similar to Fig.17D ); in the first end 2238a and the second end 223b (e.g., similar to Fig.18B ); or at least partially located in the base 2244. Fig.23As shown, the base 2444 extending in the axial direction of the portable cooling device 2400 includes an exhaust fan 2406; one or more heat sinks 2404, heat transfer blocks 2403 and cooling elements 2405 therein, and the compartment fan 2402 is placed in a cooling chamber or internal housing 2450. The internal housing 2450 may also include one or more storage chambers 2452 extending in the axial direction. The size and / or shape of the storage chamber 2452 may be configured to receive a holder therein and / or receive a syringe, pen or other elongated container therein. Multiple storage chambers 2452 may be adjustable, such as during manufacture or use (e.g., a user may add or remove storage chambers from the internal housing 2450). The storage chamber 2452 may be fixedly positioned in the internal housing 2450, or removably positioned in the internal housing 2450, so that the number and / or distribution of the storage chambers can be adjusted. In some embodiments, the storage chamber is equivalent to the holder so that they can be used interchangeably.

[0150] Any device herein may include a user input element (e.g., a button, a switch, etc.), which is located anywhere on the device or the body of the device and is used to release a cover of the device, turn on the device, adjust a parameter of the device (e.g., temperature, connection status, etc.), etc. Fig.21 As shown, in one non-limiting example, the device 2200 includes a user input element 2246 that is close to, near, or adjacent to the cover 2218 of the device 2200 to release the latch of the cover 2218 so that the contents of the device 2200 can be accessed. As another non-limiting example, Fig. 22 As shown, the user input element 2246 can be located on the cover 2218 of the device. Additionally, in any embodiments described herein, the body or outer housing of the portable cooling device can further define an aperture 2248 for exhausting heated air from the portable cooling device using an exhaust fan.

[0151] In some embodiments, Fig.24As shown, the portable cooling device 2500 can include an outer shell 2522 and a cover 2518; a cooling chamber or inner shell 2550, which contains a compartment fan 2502, a heat sink 2504, 2508, a cooling element 2510, a heat transfer block 2512, and an exhaust fan 2506; and one or more storage chambers 2552, which are arranged around the periphery 2551 of the cooling chamber 2550 or are arranged substantially concentrically around the cooling chamber 2550. The size and / or shape of the storage chamber 2552 can be configured to receive a syringe, a pen, or other elongated container therein. The plurality of storage chambers 2552 can be adjustable, such as during manufacture or use (e.g., a user can add or remove storage chambers from the cooling chamber 2550). The storage chambers 2552 can be fixedly positioned around the cooling chamber 2550 or removably positioned around the inner shell 2550, so that the number and / or distribution of the storage chambers can be adjusted.

[0152] Now go to Fig.15 , which shows a method 1500 for cooling a container using a portable cooling device, the method comprising: receiving a first input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device (e.g., via an input display or computing device) (S1510); measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device (using an internal temperature probe) (S1520); calculating a first temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature (S1530); receiving a second input voltage different from the first input voltage (S1540); and calculating a second temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature (S1550).

[0153] In some embodiments, the method further comprises comparing the first temperature difference with the second temperature difference; and outputting to the user a recommended input voltage or expected input power of the thermoelectric cooler to achieve the desired temperature difference. In some embodiments, the method further comprises comparing the first temperature difference with the second temperature difference; and automatically adjusting the input voltage or power of the thermoelectric cooler to obtain the desired temperature difference and / or internal temperature.

[0154] like Fig.16 As shown, method 1600 for cooling a container using a portable cooling device includes receiving a first input voltage or input power and a desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device (S1610); measuring the current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device (using an internal temperature probe) (S1620); calculating the temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature (S1630); and changing the input voltage or input power of the thermoelectric cooler to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device (S1640).

[0155] In some embodiments, block S1640 is performed automatically by the portable cooling device, or performed on demand or manually by a user.

[0156] In some embodiments, the input voltage may be 2 V, 3 V, 4 V, 5 V, 6 V, 7 V, 8 V, 9 V, 10 V, 11 V, 12 V, 13 V, 14 V, or 15 V. The input voltage may be 1 V to 5 V, 5 V to 10 V, 10 V to 15 V, 1 V to 3 V, 3 V to 5 V, 5 V to 7 V, 5 V to 9 V, 9 V to 11 V, 11 V to 13 V, or 13 V to 15 V. The input voltage may be 4.8 V to 5.2 V, 5.2 V to 5.6 V, 5.6 V to 6 V, 6 V to 6.4 V, 6.4 V to 6.8 V, or 6.8 V to 7.2 V. The input voltage may be at least 2V, at least 3V, at least 4V, at least 5V, at least 6V, at least 7V, at least 8V, at least 9V, at least 10V, at least 11V, at least 12V, at least 13V, at least 14V, or at least 15V.

[0157] In some embodiments, the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, resulting in the first temperature difference being less than the second temperature difference. In some embodiments, the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts. In some embodiments, the first input voltage is greater than the second input voltage, resulting in the first temperature difference being greater than the second temperature difference.

[0158] In some embodiments, the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

[0159] In some embodiments, the desired internal ambient temperature is based on a prescribed or required temperature of a container, cosmetic, medicament, drug, etc., located in the portable cooling device, such as in a holder located in the portable cooling device. In some embodiments, the desired internal ambient temperature is based on a changing external environment, such as during commuting, transportation, ambient temperature fluctuations, frequency of opening and closing the portable cooling device, etc.

[0160] In some embodiments, the temperature or temperature differential may be displayed on a display of a portable cooling device and / or a computing device (eg, a remote computing device, a mobile computing device, a server, etc.).

[0161] In some embodiments, varying the power supplied to the thermoelectric cooler can increase the capacity of the thermoelectric cooler. For example, if the user is in a room at 72°F, the unit can adequately cool at 5V and use only one amp or less, so it can be powered by a USB powered port or a standard external cell phone battery. However, if the user is outside in a 95°F environment, the user can use up to a 12V wall transformer that can supply up to 3 amps to get adequate cooling from the unit. The cooling capacity can vary based on the power level supplied to the thermoelectric cooler.

[0162] In some embodiments, methods 1500 and / or 1600 include any embodiment of a portable cooling device described and / or contemplated herein and / or available to one of skill in the art. For example, the portable cooling device may or may not be communicatively coupled to a computing device, may or may not include one or more fans, may or may not include a display, may or may not include an antenna, etc.

[0163] In some embodiments, one or more steps of methods 1500 and / or 1600 are performed by processor 12, such as Figure 1 As shown, the circuit board 400 includes a computer readable medium having non-transitory processor executable instructions stored thereon. Execution of the instructions causes the processor to perform one or more methods described elsewhere herein.

[0164] The systems and methods of the preferred embodiments and variations thereof may be at least partially embodied and / or implemented as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions are preferably executed by a computer-executable component that is preferably integrated with one or more portions of a system and processor in a portable cooling device and / or computing device. The computer-readable medium may be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EEPROM, optical device (e.g., CD or DVD), hard drive, floppy disk drive, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferably a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, but any suitable special-purpose hardware or hardware / firmware combination may alternatively or additionally execute the instructions.

[0165] Example 1

[0166] Now turn to Fig.14 , which shows a graphical representation of the temperature difference between the external environment (i.e., outside the portable cooling device) and the internal environment (i.e., within the portable cooling device) (y-axis; ΔT°F) as a function of the input voltage (V) (x-axis) input into the portable cooling device. For example, using the portable cooling device described herein, and as Fig.14As shown, an input voltage of 5V results in a temperature difference of 32.8°F between the external environment and the internal environment; an input voltage of 5.5V results in a temperature difference of 36°F; and an input voltage of 6V results in a temperature difference of 39.2°F. Combined together, increasing the input voltage increases the achievable temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment.

[0167] Example 2

[0168] In addition, Table 1 below plots the temperature accuracy measurements of competitive products and the portable cooling devices shown and described herein. A BlueMaestro Tempo Disc Bluetooth sensor beacon thermometer was calibrated (i.e., monitored temperature under various conditions over several days) and placed inside each device to measure the actual temperature versus the temperature reported by the device (i.e., the displayed temperature). As shown in Table 1, the displayed temperature of the competitive products differed greatly from the actual temperature (by at least 14°F), while the portable cooling devices described herein had similar temperatures between the displayed temperature and the actual temperature.

[0169] Table 1. Temperature Accuracy Measurements

[0170]

[0171]

[0172] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "thermoelectric cooler" or "fan" may include, and is intended to include, a plurality of thermoelectric coolers or fans. At times, the claims and disclosure may include terms such as "plurality," "one or more," or "at least one," however, the absence of these terms does not mean, and should not be interpreted to mean, that a plurality is not contemplated.

[0173] When used before a numerical name or range (e.g., defining a length or pressure), the term "about" or "approximately" refers to an approximate value, which may vary by (+) or (-) 5%, 1%, or 0.1%. All numerical ranges provided herein include the stated beginning and ending numbers. The term "substantially" refers to a majority (i.e., greater than 50%) or substantially all of a device or system.

[0174] As used herein, the terms "comprising" or "comprises" are intended to mean that devices, systems and methods include the elements described, and may additionally include any other elements. "Consisting essentially of" means that devices, systems and methods include the elements described, and exclude other elements that are significant to the combination for the described purpose. Thus, a system or method consisting essentially of the elements defined herein does not exclude other materials, features, or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed disclosure. "Consisting of" means that devices, systems and methods include the elements described, and exclude anything other than trivial or insignificant elements or steps. Embodiments defined by each of these transition terms are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0175] The examples and illustrations contained herein show specific embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced in an illustrative and non-limiting manner. From this embodiment, other embodiments can be utilized and derived so that structural and logical replacements and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is only for convenience that such embodiments of the present subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term "the present invention", and if more than one invention or inventive concept has actually been disclosed, it is not intended that the scope of the present application is automatically limited to any single invention or inventive concept. Therefore, although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose can replace the specific embodiments shown. The present disclosure is intended to cover any and all modifications or variations of various embodiments. The combination of the above-mentioned embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art when reviewing the above description.

Claims

1. A portable cooling device comprising: The inner housing comprises: Holder, a probe configured to measure a temperature within the inner housing, and a compartment fan positioned in the inner housing and configured to circulate cooling air in the inner housing; a thermoelectric cooler comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the thermoelectric cooler is adjacent to the inner housing; an exhaust fan in communication with an environment external to the portable cooling device, wherein the exhaust fan is configured to exhaust heat from the second side of the thermoelectric cooler to the environment; an external temperature probe configured to measure a temperature of an external environment; and a power supply configured to vary a range of input voltages to vary the cooling capacity of the portable cooling device and achieve a desired temperature difference between an internal environment in the internal housing and the external environment, wherein a first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment of the portable cooling device and a second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment, comparing the first temperature difference to the second temperature difference, and Based on the comparison result, a recommended input voltage or input power is output to a user for use with the portable cooling device to achieve the desired temperature difference.

2. The portable cooling device of claim 1 further comprising an outer housing such that the inner housing is located within the outer housing, wherein insulating material is located between the outer housing and the inner housing.

3. The portable cooling device of claim 2, further comprising one or more passages extending axially along the length of the inner housing between the inner housing and the outer housing for circulating air from the thermoelectric cooler.

4. The portable cooling device of claim 3, wherein the compartment fan is oriented toward the inner housing such that cooling air passes through the inner housing and then through the one or more channels.

5. The portable cooling device of claim 3, wherein the compartment fan is oriented away from the inner housing such that cooling air passes through the one or more channels and then through the inner housing.

6. The portable cooling device of claim 2, wherein the exhaust fan is at least partially located within the outer housing.

7. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the holder comprises two or more holders.

8. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the holder comprises a scale for measuring the weight of a container located therein.

9. The portable cooling device of claim 8, further comprising a display configured to indicate the weight of the container positioned in the holder.

10. The portable cooling device of any one of the preceding claims 1-6, wherein the power source comprises a battery, a USB port, a cigarette lighter port, or a wall outlet.

11. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, further comprising a display configured to indicate a temperature within the holder.

12. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, thereby causing the first temperature difference to be less than the second temperature difference.

13. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts.

14. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

15. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a medication.

16. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a cosmetic product.

17. The portable cooling device of any one of the preceding claims 1-6, further comprising a second thermoelectric cooler configured to increase the first temperature difference or the second temperature difference.

18. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the thermoelectric cooler functions by convection.

19. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the thermoelectric cooler functions by radiation.

20. The portable cooling device of any of the preceding claims 1-6, further comprising a cover that is reversibly couplable to the inner housing and a lock that reversibly locks the portable cooling device.

21. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, further comprising a backup power source.

22. The portable cooling device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-6 further comprising a first heat sink adjacent to the compartment fan, a second heat sink adjacent to the exhaust fan, and a heat transfer block adjacent to the thermoelectric cooler, the heat transfer block and the thermoelectric cooler being located between the compartment fan and the exhaust fan.

23. The portable cooling device of any preceding claim 1-6, wherein the holder is reversibly removable from the inner housing.

24. The portable cooling device of any one of the preceding claims 1-6, further comprising a processor configured to perform a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; as well as The input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler is varied to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device.

25. A portable cooling device comprising: Retainer; a probe configured to measure a temperature within the holder; a compartment fan configured to circulate cooling air in or around the holder; a thermoelectric cooler comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the thermoelectric cooler is adjacent to the holder; an exhaust fan in communication with an environment external to the portable cooling device, wherein the exhaust fan is configured to exhaust heat from the second side to the environment; an external temperature probe configured to measure a temperature of an external environment; as well as a power supply configured to vary a range of input voltages to vary the cooling capacity of the portable cooling device and achieve a desired temperature difference between an internal environment in the portable cooling device and the external environment, wherein a first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment of the portable cooling device and a second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment, comparing the first temperature difference to the second temperature difference, and Based on the comparison result, a recommended input voltage or input power is output to a user for use with the portable cooling device to achieve the desired temperature difference.

26. The portable cooling device of claim 25, further comprising an antenna configured to communicatively couple the portable cooling device to a remote computing device.

27. The portable cooling device of claim 26, further comprising the remote computing device and a display, the display being configured to indicate one or more of: a connection status between the portable cooling device and the remote computing device, a power status of the portable cooling device, and a temperature status in the holder.

28. The portable cooling device of claim 26, wherein the antenna is configured as a transceiver.

29. The portable cooling device of claim 26, further comprising the remote computing device.

30. The portable cooling device of claim 29, wherein the remote computing device comprises a server.

31. The portable cooling device of claim 29, wherein the remote computing device comprises a mobile computing device.

32. The portable cooling device of claim 29, wherein the remote computing device comprises a wearable device.

33. The portable cooling device of claim 29, wherein the remote computing device comprises a laptop computer.

34. The portable cooling device of claim 29, wherein the remote computing device comprises a desktop computer.

35. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 26-34, wherein the temperature measured by the probe is transmitted to the remote computing device.

36. The portable cooling device of claim 35, wherein the temperature is transmitted and stored over time to maintain a history of the temperature.

37. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 26-34, further comprising a scale arranged to measure the weight of one or more containers located in the holder, wherein the weight is transmitted to the remote computing device.

38. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, further comprising an internal housing at least partially enclosing the probe, the compartment fan, the thermoelectric cooler, and the exhaust fan.

39. The portable cooling device of claim 38, further comprising an outer housing disposed about the inner housing, wherein insulating material is located between the inner housing and the outer housing.

40. The portable cooling device of claim 39, wherein the exhaust fan is at least partially located within the outer housing.

41. The portable cooling device of claim 39, further comprising one or more passages extending axially along the length of the inner housing between the inner housing and the outer housing for circulating air from the thermoelectric cooler.

42. The portable cooling device of claim 41, wherein the compartment fan is oriented toward the inner housing such that cooling air passes through the inner housing and then through the one or more passages.

43. The portable cooling device of claim 41, wherein the compartment fan is oriented away from the inner housing such that cooling air passes through the one or more channels and then through the inner housing.

44. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, further comprising a base extending along an axial length of the portable cooling device such that the base is positioned to contact a surface upon which the portable cooling device rests.

45. The portable cooling device of claim 25, wherein the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, thereby causing the first temperature differential to be less than the second temperature differential.

46. ​​The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, wherein the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts.

47. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, wherein the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

48. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a medication.

49. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a cosmetic product.

50. The portable cooling device of claim 38, further comprising a cover reversibly couplable to the inner housing and a lock for reversibly locking the portable cooling device.

51. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, further comprising a backup power source.

52. The portable cooling device according to any one of claims 25-34 further includes a first heat sink adjacent to the compartment fan, a second heat sink adjacent to the exhaust fan, and a heat transfer block adjacent to the thermoelectric cooler, wherein the heat transfer block and the thermoelectric cooler are located between the compartment fan and the exhaust fan.

53. The portable cooling device of claim 38, wherein the retainer is reversibly removable from the inner housing.

54. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 25-34, further comprising a processor configured to perform a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; as well as The input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler is varied to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device.

55. A portable cooling device having no moving parts, comprising: A thermoelectric cooler comprising a first side and a second side, wherein the first side is configured to cool air within the portable cooling device and the second side is configured as a housing, the housing comprising: Holder, a probe configured to measure a temperature within the holder, an external temperature probe configured to measure a temperature of an external environment, and a power supply configured to receive a range of input voltages, wherein a first input voltage results in a first temperature difference between an internal environment in the housing and the environment outside the housing, and a second input voltage results in a second temperature difference between the internal environment of the housing and the environment outside the housing, to achieve a desired temperature difference between the internal environment and the external environment, wherein the desired temperature of the internal environment is based on the changing external environment, comparing the first temperature difference to the second temperature difference, and According to the comparison result, the input voltage or power is automatically adjusted to achieve the desired temperature difference.

56. The portable cooling device of claim 55, wherein the first side comprises a cold side and the second side comprises a hot side having a heat sink.

57. The portable cooling device of claim 55, wherein the first side comprises a cold side having a heat sink and the second side comprises a hot side having a heat sink.

58. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, further comprising an antenna configured to communicatively couple the portable cooling device to a remote computing device.

59. The portable cooling device of claim 58, further comprising the remote computing device and a display, the display being configured to indicate one or more of: a connection status between the portable cooling device and the remote computing device, a power status of the portable cooling device, and a temperature status in the holder.

60. The portable cooling device of claim 58, wherein the antenna is configured as a transceiver.

61. The portable cooling device of claim 58, further comprising the remote computing device.

62. The portable cooling device of claim 61, wherein the remote computing device comprises a server.

63. The portable cooling device of claim 61, wherein the remote computing device comprises a mobile computing device.

64. The portable cooling device of claim 61, wherein the remote computing device comprises a wearable device.

65. The portable cooling device of claim 61, wherein the remote computing device comprises a laptop computer.

66. The portable cooling device of claim 61, wherein the remote computing device comprises a desktop computer.

67. The portable cooling device of claim 58, wherein the temperature measured by the probe is transmitted to the remote computing device.

68. The portable cooling device of claim 67, wherein the temperature is transmitted and stored over time to maintain a history of the temperature.

69. The portable cooling device of claim 58, further comprising a scale arranged to measure the weight of one or more containers located in the holder, wherein the weight is transmitted to the remote computing device.

70. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, further comprising a base extending along an axial length of the portable cooling device such that the base is positioned to contact a surface upon which the portable cooling device rests.

71. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the first input voltage is less than the second input voltage, thereby causing the first temperature difference to be less than the second temperature difference.

72. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the first input voltage is 5 volts and the second input voltage is 6 volts.

73. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the first input voltage is different from the second input voltage.

74. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a medication.

75. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the holder is configured to hold a container comprising a cosmetic product.

76. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, further comprising a cover and a lock, wherein the cover can be reversibly coupled to the housing and the lock can reversibly lock the portable cooling device.

77. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, further comprising a backup power source.

78. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the holder is reversibly removable from the housing.

79. The portable cooling device of any one of claims 55-57, further comprising a processor configured to perform a method comprising: receiving an input voltage and a desired internal ambient temperature; measuring a current internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device; calculating a temperature difference between the desired internal ambient temperature and the current internal ambient temperature; as well as The input voltage or power to the thermoelectric cooler is varied to achieve the desired internal ambient temperature in the portable cooling device.

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