Method and system for preserving goods at ultra-low temperatures for an extended period of time

Abstract

The present invention relates to a transport climate control system to cost effectively maintain ultra-low temperatures for an extended period of time. The transport climate control system includes a primary climate control system and a secondary climate control system. The primary climate control system includes a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a primary evaporator configured in thermal communication with a climate controlled space. The secondary climate control system includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated within an interior or exterior of an enclosure for cargo. The secondary climate control system is configured in thermal communication with the climate controlled space, the primary climate control system, and the cargo to provide additional or backup climate control capacity at the ultra-low temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a transportation climate control system. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a transportation climate control system capable of cost-effectively preserving goods at extremely low temperatures over an extended period of time. Background Technology

[0002] Transport climate control systems are typically used to control one or more environmental conditions of a transport unit, such as, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, air quality, or combinations thereof. Examples of transport units include, but are not limited to, trucks, containers (e.g., containers on flatcars, intermodal containers, ocean containers, etc.), vans, semi-trailer tractors, buses, or other similar transport units. Refrigerated transport units are typically used to transport perishable goods such as agricultural products, frozen foods, meat products, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The embodiments described herein relate to methods and systems for cost-effectively preserving goods at ultra-low temperatures over an extended period of time.

[0004] Certain perishable goods (e.g., viruses, bacteria, eukaryotic cells, blood, mRNA materials, etc.) may require cost-effective transport at ultra-low temperatures, for example -30°C to -80°C or -40°C to -80°C. However, due to cost and / or safety reasons, stand-alone vapor compression climate control systems or stand-alone sublimation / evaporation climate control systems may not be feasible on their own. The embodiments described herein provide a transport climate control system with a primary climate control system combined with a second climate control system to cost-effectively preserve goods at ultra-low temperatures.

[0005] According to an embodiment, a transport climate control system is provided for cost-effectively maintaining ultra-low temperatures over an extended period of time. The transport climate control system includes a primary climate control system and a secondary climate control system. The primary climate control system is configured to be in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space and includes a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a main evaporator. The secondary climate control system includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated inside or outside a cargo housing. The secondary climate control system is configured to be in thermal communication with the climate-controlled space, the primary climate control system, and the cargo to provide additional or backup climate control capabilities at the ultra-low temperatures. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Referring to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure, and illustrating embodiments in which the systems and methods described herein can be practiced.

[0007] Figure 1AThis is a side view of a van equipped with a transport climate control system according to an embodiment.

[0008] Figure 1B This is a side view of a truck having a transport climate control system according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 1C This is a perspective view of a climate-controlled transport unit according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 1D This is a side view of a climate-controlled transportation unit including a multi-zone transportation climate control system according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 1E This is a perspective view of a climate-controlled transport unit according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, which includes a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system.

[0013] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, including a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a single-stage climate control loop with an intake liquid heat exchanger.

[0014] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, including a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a single-stage climate control loop with an energy saver.

[0015] Figure 3C This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, which includes a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a cascaded climate control loop.

[0016] Figure 3D This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, including a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a cascaded climate control loop with an energy saver.

[0017] Figure 3E This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to another embodiment, including a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a cascaded climate control loop with an energy saver.

[0018] Figure 3FThis is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system according to an embodiment, including a main climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system, the main climate control system including a cascaded climate control loop with two energy savers.

[0019] Figure 4A The illustration shows a climate-controlled space for a transport unit according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4B The illustration shows a climate-controlled space for a transport unit according to another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 The illustration shows a casing configured to hold cargo according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 The illustration shows a casing configured to hold cargo according to another embodiment.

[0023] Similar reference numerals always indicate similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0024] This disclosure generally relates to a transportation climate control system. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a transportation climate control system having a primary climate control system thermally connected to a second climate control system to cost-effectively preserve products at ultra-low temperatures over an extended period of time.

[0025] Transport units include, for example, trucks, vans, containers (e.g., containers on flatcars, intermodal containers, ocean containers, etc.), vans, semi-trailer tractors, buses, or other similar transport units. Embodiments of this disclosure can be used in any suitable environmentally controlled transport unit.

[0026] Climate-controlled transport units (e.g., transport units that include transport climate control systems) can be used to transport perishable goods, such as, but not limited to, pharmaceuticals, biological sample products, frozen foods, and meat products.

[0027] Certain perishable goods may require cost-effective transportation at ultra-low temperatures. Ultra-low temperatures are defined herein as temperatures suitable for preserving biological materials such as viruses, bacteria, eukaryotic cells, blood, mRNA materials, etc. For example, in some embodiments, ultra-low temperatures can be between -30°C and -80°C. In some embodiments, ultra-low temperatures can be between -40°C and -80°C.

[0028] Transportation climate control systems are typically used to control one or more environmental conditions within the climate-controlled space of a transportation unit, such as, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, and / or air quality.

[0029] A transport climate control system may include a climate control unit (CCU) attached to the transport unit to control one or more environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) in the climate-controlled space of the transport unit. The CCU may include one or more components of a vapor compression climate control system, which includes, for example, a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and one or more fans or blowers to control heat exchange between the air within the climate-controlled space and the ambient air outside the transport unit.

[0030] Vapor compression climate control systems can cost-effectively provide continuous cooling capacity over a defined temperature range. However, in some embodiments, vapor compression climate control systems may not be able to provide sufficient cooling to reach ultra-low temperature ranges within a climate-controlled space. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cost of configuring a vapor compression climate control system to provide sufficient cooling capacity to reach ultra-low temperature ranges may be too high due to the cost of, for example, a low-temperature working fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) and the equipment associated with operating the lower-temperature working fluid. The working fluid described herein may alternatively be referred to as a heat transfer fluid or medium.

[0031] In some embodiments, a sublimation / evaporation climate control system includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium capable of maintaining ultra-low temperatures within a climate-controlled space. However, relying on an ultra-low temperature phase change medium for extended periods within a climate-controlled space may be impractical for cost and safety reasons. For example, large quantities of dry ice could be expensive, occupy valuable cargo space within the climate-controlled space, and generate significant amounts of gaseous carbon dioxide to displace the air within the climate-controlled space, which could be unhealthy for anyone entering the climate-controlled space. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0032] Figures 1A to 1E Various embodiments of a transport climate control system are shown. Figure 1A This is a side view of a van 100 having a transport climate control system 105 according to an embodiment. Figure 1B This is a side view of a truck 150 having a transport climate control system 155 according to an embodiment. Figure 1C This is a perspective view of a climate-controlled transport unit 200 that can be attached to a tractor 205 according to an embodiment. The climate-controlled transport unit 200 includes a transport climate control system 210. Figure 1D This is a side view of a climate-controlled transportation unit 275 including a multi-zone transportation climate control system 280 according to an embodiment. Figure 1E This is a perspective view of an intermodal container 350 equipped with a transport climate control system 355.

[0033] Figure 1A A van 100 is shown having a transport climate control system 105 for providing climate control within a climate-controlled space 110. The transport climate control system 105 includes a climate control unit (CCU) 115 mounted to the roof 120 of the van 100. In an embodiment, the CCU 115 may be a transport refrigeration unit.

[0034] The transport climate control system 105 may include components such as a main climate control system 105A and a second climate control system 105B, which are thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 110. The main climate control system 105A may include a climate control loop connected, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 110. As defined herein, the expander may be an expansion valve or any other type of expansion device configured to control the amount of working fluid passing through it and thereby regulate the superheat of the vapor leaving the evaporator. The expander may or may not be configured to generate electricity. In some embodiments, the climate control loop may be a single-stage climate control loop (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) or cascaded climate control loops (see Figures 3C to 3F The transport climate control system 105, including a primary climate control system 105A and a second climate control system 105B, is configured to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 110 to maintain ultra-low temperatures.

[0035] CCU 115 may include part or all of the main climate control system 105A, which includes, for example, a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expander.

[0036] The second climate control system 105B is disposed within the climate-controlled space 110 and can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for goods stored in the climate-controlled space 110. The second climate control system 105B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can use an ultra-low (temperature) phase change medium that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space to provide backup or additional cooling capacity. In some embodiments, the ultra-low (temperature) phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0037] It will be understood that, within the scope of the principles of this disclosure, the embodiments described herein are not limited to vans or climate-controlled vans, but can be applied to any type of transport unit (e.g., trucks, containers (e.g., containers on flatcars, intermodal containers, ocean containers, etc.), vans, semi-trailer tractors, buses or other similar transport units).

[0038] The transport climate control system 105 also includes a programmable climate controller 125 and one or more climate control sensors (not shown), which are configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 105 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the van 100, ambient humidity outside the van 100, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to the climate-controlled space 110 by the CCU 115, return air temperature of air returning from the climate-controlled space 110 to the CCU 115, humidity within the climate-controlled space 110, etc.) and transmit the measured parameters to the climate controller 125. The one or more climate control sensors may be located at different locations outside the van 100 and / or inside the van 100 (including within the climate-controlled space 110).

[0039] Climate controller 125 is configured to control the operation of a transportation climate control system 105, which includes one or more components of a main climate control system 105A. Climate controller 115 may include a single integrated control unit 130, or a distributed network that may include climate controller elements 130, 135. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles of this disclosure. Climate controller 125 may use measured parameters obtained from one or more climate control sensors to control the operation of the transportation climate control system 105.

[0040] The van 100 includes a sensor 140. In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 140 is represented as a single sensor. It will be understood that in other embodiments, van 100 may include multiple sensors 140. In some embodiments, sensor 140 may monitor one or more climate control parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 110 or immediately outside van 100. Climate controller 125 may use sensor 140 to control the operation of transport climate control system 105. Sensor 140 may electronically communicate with a power source (not shown) of CCU 115. In an embodiment, sensor 140 may electronically communicate with climate controller 125. It will be understood that electronic communication between sensor 140 and climate controller 125 enables network communication of the sensed climate control parameters measured by sensor 140. Electronic communication between climate controller 125 and sensor 140 allows the sensed climate control parameters to be utilized in the control of CCU 115.

[0041] Figure 1BA climate-controlled straight-line truck / monocoque 150 is shown, including a climate-controlled space 160 for carrying cargo and a transport climate control system 155. The transport climate control system 155 may include components such as a main climate control system 155A and a second climate control system 155B, which are thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 160. The main climate control system 155A may include a climate control loop connected, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 160. In some embodiments, the climate control loop may be a single-stage climate control loop (see...). Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) or cascaded climate control loops (see Figures 3C to 3F The transport climate control system 155, including a primary climate control system 155A and a second climate control system 155B, is configured to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 160 to maintain ultra-low temperatures.

[0042] The transport climate control system 155 may include a climate control unit (CCU) 165 mounted to the front wall 170 of the climate-controlled space 160. The CCU 165 may include part or all of a main climate control system 155A, which includes, for example, a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expander. In an embodiment, the CCU 165 may be a transport refrigeration unit.

[0043] The second climate control system 155B is disposed within the climate-controlled space 160 and can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for goods stored in the climate-controlled space 160. The second climate control system 155B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can provide backup or additional cooling capacity using an ultra-low temperature phase change medium that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0044] The transportation climate control system 155 also includes a programmable climate controller 175 and one or more climate control sensors (not shown). These climate control sensors are configured to measure one or more parameters of the transportation climate control system 155 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the truck 150, ambient humidity outside the truck 150, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied from the CCU 165 to the climate-controlled space 160, return air temperature of air returning from the climate-controlled space 160 to the CCU 165, humidity within the climate-controlled space 160, etc.) and transmit the climate control data to the climate controller 175. The one or more climate control sensors may be located at different locations outside and / or inside the truck 150 (including within the climate-controlled space 160).

[0045] Climate controller 175 is configured to control the operation of a transportation climate control system 155, which includes components of a main climate control system 155A. Climate controller 175 may include a single integrated control unit 175, or a distributed network that may include climate controller elements 175, 180. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein. Climate controller 175 may use measured parameters obtained from one or more climate control sensors to control the operation of the transportation climate control system 155.

[0046] Truck 150 includes sensor 185. In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 185 is represented as a single sensor. It will be understood that in other embodiments, truck 150 includes multiple sensors 185. In some embodiments, sensor 185 may monitor one or more climate control parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 160 or immediately outside truck 150. Climate controller 175 may use sensor 185 to control the operation of transport climate control system 155. Sensor 185 may electronically communicate with a power source (not shown) of CCU 165. In an embodiment, sensor 185 may electronically communicate with climate controller 175. It will be understood that electronic communication between sensor 185 and climate controller 175 enables network communication of the sensed climate control parameters measured by sensor 185. Electronic communication between climate controller 175 and sensor 185 allows the sensed climate control parameters to be utilized in the control of CCU 165.

[0047] Figure 1C An embodiment of a climate-controlled transport unit 200 attached to a tractor unit 205 is illustrated. The climate-controlled transport unit 200 includes a transport climate control system 210 for a transport unit 215. The tractor unit 205 is attached to and configured to tow the transport unit 215. Figure 1C The transport unit 215 shown is a trailer.

[0048] The transport climate control system 200 may include components such as a main climate control system 221A and a second climate control system 221B, which are thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 225 of the transport unit 200. The main climate control system 221A may include a climate control loop connected, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 160. In some embodiments, the climate control loop may be a single-stage climate control loop (see...). Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) or cascaded climate control loops (see Figures 3C to 3F The transport climate control system 200, including a primary climate control system 221A and a second climate control system 221B, is configured to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 225 to maintain ultra-low temperatures.

[0049] The second climate control system 221B is disposed within the climate-controlled space 225 and can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for goods stored in the climate-controlled space 225. The second climate control system 221B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can use an ultra-low temperature phase change medium that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space to provide backup or additional cooling capacity. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0050] The transport climate control system 210 includes a climate control unit (CCU) 220, which may include part or all of the main climate control system 221A. The CCU 220 is disposed on the front wall 230 of the transport unit 215. In other embodiments, it will be understood that the CCU 220 may be disposed, for example, on the roof or another wall of the transport unit 215. In embodiments, the CCU 220 may be a transport refrigeration unit.

[0051] The transport climate control system 210 also includes a programmable climate controller 235 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 210 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the transport unit 215, ambient humidity outside the transport unit 215, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied from the CCU 220 to the climate-controlled space 225, return air temperature of air returning from the climate-controlled space 225 to the CCU 220, humidity within the climate-controlled space 225, etc.) and transmit climate control data to the climate controller 235. The one or more climate control sensors may be located at different locations outside and / or inside the transport unit 200 (including within the climate-controlled space 225).

[0052] Climate controller 235 is configured to control the operation of transportation climate control system 210, which includes components of main climate control system 221A. Climate controller 235 may include a single integrated control unit 240, or a distributed network that may include climate controller elements 240, 245. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein. Climate controller 235 may use measured parameters obtained from one or more climate control sensors to control the operation of transportation climate control system 210. Climate-controlled transportation unit 200 includes sensors 250. In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 250 is represented as a single sensor. It will be understood that in other embodiments, climate-controlled transportation unit 200 may include multiple sensors 250. In some embodiments, sensor 250 may monitor one or more climate control parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 225 or immediately outside the transportation unit 200. Climate controller 235 may use sensor 250 to control the operation of transportation climate control system 210.

[0053] Sensor 250 can electronically communicate with the power supply (not shown) of CCU 220. In an embodiment, sensor 250 can electronically communicate with climate controller 235. It will be understood that the electronic communication between sensor 250 and climate controller 235 enables network communication of sensed climate control parameters measured by sensor 250. The electronic communication between climate controller 235 and sensor 250 allows the sensed climate control parameters to be utilized in the control of CCU 220.

[0054] Figure 1DAn embodiment of a climate-controlled transport unit 275 is illustrated. The climate-controlled transport unit 275 includes a multi-zone transport climate control system (MTCS) 280 for transport unit 285, which may, for example, be towed by a tractor (not shown). It will be understood that the embodiments described herein are not limited to tractor and trailer units, but can be applied to any type of transport unit (e.g., trucks, containers (e.g., containers on flatcars, intermodal containers, ocean containers, etc.), vans, semi-trailer tractors, buses, or other similar transport units).

[0055] MTCS 280 includes a CCU 290 and multiple remote units 295 providing environmental control (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 300 of transport unit 275. MTCS 280 may include features such as a main climate control system 290A and a second climate control system 290B thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 300. The climate-controlled space 300 may be divided into multiple zones 305. The term "zone" refers to a portion of the climate-controlled space 300 separated by walls 310. CCU 290 may operate as a host unit and provide climate control within a first zone 305a of the climate-controlled space 300. Remote units 295a may provide climate control within a second zone 305b of the climate-controlled space 300. Remote units 295b may provide climate control within a third zone 305c of the climate-controlled space 300. Therefore, the MTCS 280 can be used to individually and independently control the environmental conditions within each of the multiple regions 305 of the climate-controlled space 300.

[0056] The primary climate control system 290A may include a climate control loop connected, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 300. In some embodiments, the climate control loop may be a single-stage climate control loop (see...). Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) or cascaded climate control loops (see Figures 3C to 3F The MTCS 280, comprising a primary climate control system 290A and a second climate control system 290B, is configured to provide climate control within a climate-controlled space 300 to maintain ultra-low temperatures.

[0057] CCU 290 is disposed on the front wall 315 of transport unit 275. In other embodiments, it will be understood that CCU 290 may be disposed, for example, on the roof or another wall of transport unit 275. CCU 290 may include part or all of a main climate control system 290A, which includes, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander to provide conditioned air within climate-controlled space 300. Remote unit 295a is disposed on the inner ceiling 320 within second region 305b, and remote unit 295b is disposed on the inner ceiling 320 within third region 305c. Each of remote units 295a and 295b includes an evaporator (not shown) connected to the remainder of the climate control loop disposed in CCU 290. In embodiments, CCU 290 may be a transport refrigeration unit.

[0058] The second climate control system 290B is disposed within the climate-controlled space 300 and can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for goods stored in the climate-controlled space 300. The second climate control system 290B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can use an ultra-low (temperature) phase change medium that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space to provide backup or additional cooling capacity. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0059] The MTCS 280 also includes a programmable climate controller 325 and one or more climate control sensors (not shown), which are configured to measure one or more parameters of the MTCS 280 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the transport unit 275, ambient humidity outside the transport unit 275, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to each of the zones 305 by the CCU 290 and remote unit 295, return air temperature of air returning from each of the zones 305 to the corresponding CCU 290 or remote unit 295a or 295b, humidity within each of the zones 305, etc.) and transmit climate control data to the climate controller 325. The one or more climate control sensors may be located at different locations outside and / or inside the transport unit 275 (including within the climate-controlled space 300).

[0060] Climate controller 325 is configured to control the operation of MTCS 280, which includes components of a climate control loop. Climate controller 325 may include a single integrated control unit 330, or a distributed network that may include climate controller elements 330, 335. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein. Climate controller 325 may use measured parameters obtained from one or more climate control sensors to control the operation of MTCS 280.

[0061] The climate-controlled transport unit 275 includes a sensor 340. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor 340 is represented as a single sensor. It will be understood that in other embodiments, the climate-controlled transport unit 275 may include multiple sensors 340. In some embodiments, the sensor 340 may monitor one or more climate control parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 300. The climate controller 325 may use the sensor 340 to control the operation of the MTCS 280.

[0062] Sensor 340 can electronically communicate with the power supply (not shown) of CCU 290. In an embodiment, sensor 340 can electronically communicate with climate controller 325. It will be understood that the electronic communication between sensor 340 and climate controller 325 enables network communication of sensed climate control parameters measured by sensor 340. The electronic communication between climate controller 325 and sensor 340 allows the sensed climate control parameters to be utilized in the control of CCU 290.

[0063] Figure 1E An intermodal container 350 is shown having a transport climate control system 355 for providing climate control within a climate-controlled space 358. The transport climate control system 355 includes a climate control unit (CCU) 360 mounted at one end of the container 350 to a side 352. In an embodiment, the CCU 360 may be a transport refrigeration unit.

[0064] The transport climate control system 355 may include components such as a main climate control system 365A and a second climate control system 365B, which are thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 358. The main climate control system 365A may include a climate control loop connected, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 308. In some embodiments, the climate control loop may be a single-stage climate control loop (see...). Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) or cascaded climate control loops (see Figures 3C to 3FThe transport climate control system 355, including a primary climate control system 365A and a second climate control system 365B, is configured to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 308 to maintain ultra-low temperatures.

[0065] CCU 360 may include part or all of the main climate control system 365A, which includes, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator and expander.

[0066] The second climate control system 365B is disposed within the climate-controlled space 358 and can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for goods stored in the climate-controlled space 358. The second climate control system 365B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can provide backup or additional cooling capacity using an ultra-low temperature phase change medium that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0067] The transport climate control system 355 also includes a programmable climate controller 370 and one or more climate control sensors (not shown), which are configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 355 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the container 350, ambient humidity outside the container 350, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied from the CCU 360 to the climate-controlled space 358, return air temperature of air returning from the climate-controlled space 358 to the CCU 360, humidity within the climate-controlled space 358, etc.) and transmit the measured parameters to the climate controller 370. The one or more climate control sensors may be located at different locations outside and / or inside the container 350 (including within the climate-controlled space 358).

[0068] Climate controller 370 is configured to control the operation of a transportation climate control system 355, which includes one or more components of a main climate control system 365A. Climate controller 370 may include a single integrated control unit 372, or a distributed network that may include climate controller elements 372, 374. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles of this disclosure. Climate controller 370 may use measured parameters obtained from one or more climate control sensors to control the operation of the transportation climate control system 355.

[0069] Container 350 includes sensor 375. In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 375 is represented as a single sensor. It will be understood that in other embodiments, container 350 may include multiple sensors 375. In some embodiments, sensor 375 may monitor one or more climate control parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, atmosphere, etc.) within the climate-controlled space 358 or immediately outside container 350. Climate controller 370 may use sensor 375 to control the operation of transport climate control system 355. Sensor 375 may electronically communicate with a power source (not shown) of CCU 360. In an embodiment, sensor 375 may electronically communicate with climate controller 370. It will be understood that electronic communication between sensor 375 and climate controller 370 enables network communication of the sensed climate control parameters measured by sensor 375. Electronic communication between climate controller 370 and sensor 375 allows the sensed climate control parameters to be utilized in the control of CCU 360.

[0070] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a main climate control system 400A that is thermally connected to a second climate control system 400B of a transportation climate control system 400, according to an embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the main climate control system 400A and the second climate control system 400B are thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 408 that houses the cargo 490.

[0071] The main climate control system 400A provides cooling capacity for cooling all or part of the climate-controlled space 408 to ultra-low temperatures. The main climate control system 400A is a vapor compression type climate control system 410 that is thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 408 via the main evaporator 406.

[0072] The vapor compression climate control system 410 can provide the cooling capacity of the main climate control system 400A. The vapor compression climate control system 410 may include, for example, a single-stage climate control loop, a cascaded climate control loop, etc., and is configured to fluidly connect, for example, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expander (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device) to allow working fluid to circulate through it and provide climate control for the climate-controlled space 408. The climate control loop may also include other climate control loop components, such as, for example, an intake liquid heat exchanger, one or more economizers, a subcooling heat exchanger, a superheating heat exchanger, one or more liquid receivers, and one or more buffer systems, etc., to improve the operating efficiency of the climate control loop. The vapor compression climate control system 410 may also include one or more heat transfer loop components, including, for example, one or more condenser fans, one or more evaporator blowers, etc.

[0073] The main evaporator 406 thermally connects the vapor compression climate control system 410 to the climate-controlled space 408 and provides cooling capacity by transferring heat between the climate-controlled space 408 and the working fluid through the main evaporator 406.

[0074] The working fluid can be an unsaturated hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), hydrofluoroolefin (HFO), hydrocarbon (HC), carbon dioxide (R744), or a combination thereof. In embodiments where the main climate control system 400A is a single-stage vapor compression type climate control system, the working fluid can be, for example, R404A, R452A, R454A, R454C, etc. In embodiments where the main climate control system 400A is a cascaded vapor compression type climate control system having a first heat transfer loop and a second heat transfer loop including a main evaporator 406, the working fluid can be, for example, used for the first heat transfer loop (e.g., Figures 3C to 3F The first heat transfer loops 700A1, 800A1, 900A1, and 1000A1 shown in the diagram use R134a, R513A, R1234yf, R1234ze, R515B, etc., and the second heat transfer loop (e.g., Figures 3C to 3F The second heat transfer loops shown (700A2, 800A2, 900A2, and 1000A2) use R23, R508B, LFR5A, etc. It will be understood that LFR5A can be a mixture of R23, R1132a, R125, and R744.

[0075] The second climate control system 400B is a sublimation / evaporation climate control system that can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 408. The second climate control system 400B includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 407 configured to release or absorb heat energy from the climate-controlled space 408.

[0076] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 407 is configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 407 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc. The advantage of using a sublimation phase change medium is that it is inert and can be handled in its solid phase without expensive containers. Furthermore, when the sublimation phase change medium undergoes a phase change, the phase change is from solid to gas. Therefore, when the sublimation phase change medium is in the gaseous phase (e.g., carbon dioxide, for example), it is unlikely to cause liquid-related damage to climate-controlled spaces, enclosures, cargo, etc.

[0077] Figure 3AThis is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 500 according to one embodiment, including a main climate control system 500A and a second climate control system 500B. The main climate control system 500A and the second climate control system 500B are in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0078] The main climate control system 500A provides all or part of the cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space 508. The main climate control system 500A may be a vapor compression type climate control system that is thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 508 via the main evaporator 506.

[0079] The vapor compression climate control system provides cooling capacity for the main climate control system 500A. The vapor compression climate control system includes a single-stage climate control loop fluidly connected to the compressor 501, condenser 502, expander 505 (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device), and main evaporator 506 to allow working fluid to circulate through it in order to provide climate control for the climate-controlled space 508.

[0080] A single-stage climate control loop fluidly connects compressor 501, condenser 502, expander 505 (e.g., expansion valve or other expansion device), and main evaporator 506 to allow a heat transfer fluid to circulate through it. The heat transfer fluid can typically be a working fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) with a relatively low global warming potential (GWP). Examples of suitable heat transfer fluids may include, but are not limited to, R404A, R452A, R454A, or R454C. A vapor compression type climate control system may also include one or more other climate control loop components and one or more heat transfer loop components. For example, the vapor compression type climate control system of the main climate control system 500A also includes a suction liquid refrigerant heat exchanger 504 and a liquid receiver 503.

[0081] The suction liquid heat exchanger 504 is configured to remove heat from the working fluid upstream of the expander 505. Heat is removed after the working fluid passes through the main evaporator 506.

[0082] Liquid receiver 503 helps manage fluctuations in cooling capacity demand at the main evaporator 506 by accumulating working fluid within it when cooling capacity demand is low and releasing the accumulated working fluid within it when cooling capacity demand is high. Liquid receiver 503 is located in the flow path between condenser 502 and expander 505. In embodiments with suction liquid heat exchanger 504, liquid receiver 503 is located in the flow path between condenser 502 and suction liquid heat exchanger 504.

[0083] The second climate control system 500B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508 by using an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 408.

[0084] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0085] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 600 according to an embodiment, including a main climate control system 600A and a second climate control system 600B. The main climate control system 600A and the second climate control system 600B are in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0086] The main climate control system 600A provides all or part of the cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space 508. The main climate control system 600A may be a vapor compression type climate control system that is thermally connected to the climate-controlled space 508 via the main evaporator 506.

[0087] The vapor compression climate control system provides cooling capacity for the main climate control system 600A. The vapor compression climate control system includes a single-stage climate control loop fluidly connected to the compressor 501, condenser 502, expander 505 (e.g., an expansion valve or other expansion device), and main evaporator 506 to allow working fluid to circulate through it in order to provide climate control for the climate-controlled space 508.

[0088] A single-stage climate control loop fluidly connects compressor 501, condenser 502, expander 505 (e.g., expansion valve or other expansion device), and main evaporator 506 to allow a heat transfer fluid to circulate through it. The heat transfer fluid can typically be a working fluid with a relatively low GWP (e.g., a refrigerant). Examples of suitable heat transfer fluids may include, but are not limited to, R404A, R452A, R454A, or R454C.

[0089] The vapor compression type climate control system may also include one or more climate control loop components. For example, the vapor compression type climate control system of the main climate control system 600A also includes an economizer 510 and a subcooling heat exchanger 509. The economizer 510 and the economizer expander 511 are in fluid communication with the compressor 501. The economizer 510 is configured to remove heat energy from the working fluid upstream of the expander 505. A dispersed portion of the working fluid upstream of the expander 505 is used to remove heat energy, thus removing the remaining heat energy from the working fluid upstream of the expander 505. The remaining portion of the working fluid is then directed into the expander 505. After undergoing heat exchange at the economizer 510, the diverted portion of the working fluid is directed into the compressor 501.

[0090] The vapor compression type climate control system of the main climate control system 600A also includes a subcooling heat exchanger 509 in fluid communication with the compressor 501. The subcooling heat exchanger 509 is positioned downstream of the condenser 502 relative to the working fluid flowing through the first compressor 501. The process fluid side of the subcooling heat exchanger 509 is in fluid connection with the working fluid side of the condenser 502. According to one embodiment, the condenser is air-cooled. The working fluid (e.g., cooling air) can cool the heat transfer fluid (i.e., the working fluid flowing through the first compressor 501) within the subcooling heat exchanger 509 and the condenser 502. The subcooling heat exchanger 509 and the condenser 502 can exchange heat energy with the cooling air in sequence. In one embodiment, the cooling air can exchange heat energy sequentially by flowing through the subcooling heat exchanger 509 before flowing through the condenser 502. The cooling air can absorb heat energy and increase its temperature after flowing through the subcooling heat exchanger 509 and the condenser 502. Typically, the temperature of the condenser 502 can be higher than the temperature of the subcooling heat exchanger 509. The temperature of the cooling air can be lower than the temperature of the subcooling heat exchanger 509. After passing through the subcooling heat exchanger 509, the temperature of the cooling air can be lower than the temperature of the condenser 502. In another embodiment, when operating in cooling mode, the subcooling heat exchanger 509 can be located upstream of the condenser 502, and the subcooling heat exchanger 509 can also be located downstream of the condenser 502. The working fluid can be a refrigerant.

[0091] Liquid receiver 503 can help manage fluctuations in cooling capacity demand at the main evaporator 506 by temporarily storing working fluid within it. Liquid receiver 503 is located in the flow path between condenser 502 and expander 505. Figure 3B As shown, the liquid receiver 503 is positioned in the flow path between the condenser 502 and the energy saver 510. Furthermore, the liquid receiver 503 is positioned in the flow path between the condenser 502 and the subcooling heat exchanger 509.

[0092] The second climate control system 600B can use an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 configured to release or absorb heat from the climate-controlled space 508 to provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508.

[0093] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0094] Figure 3C This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 700, including a main climate control system 700A and a second climate control system 700B. The main climate control system 700A and the second climate control system 700B are thermally connected to a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0095] The main climate control system 700A includes a cascaded climate control loop, which comprises a first heat transfer loop 700A1 and a second heat transfer loop 700A2. In an embodiment, the first heat transfer loop 700A1 may alternatively be referred to as a primary heat transfer loop 700A1, a high-side heat transfer loop 700A1, a condensation-side heat transfer loop 700A1, a two-stage heat transfer loop 700A1, or the like. In an embodiment, the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may alternatively be referred to as a low-side heat transfer loop 700A2, an evaporation-side heat transfer loop 700A2, or the like. The first heat transfer loop 700A1 and the second heat transfer loop 700A2 are in thermal communication.

[0096] The first heat transfer loop 700A1 includes a first climate control loop fluidly connected to the first compressor 501, the first condenser 502, the expander 505, and the cascaded heat exchanger 514 to allow a first heat transfer fluid to circulate through it. The first heat transfer fluid can typically be a working fluid with a relatively low GWP (e.g., a refrigerant). Examples of suitable first heat transfer fluids for the first heat transfer loop 700A1 may include, but are not limited to, R134a, R513A, R1234yf, R1234ze, or R515B.

[0097] The second heat transfer loop 700A2 includes a second climate control loop fluidly connected to the second compressor 512, cascaded heat exchanger 514, second expander 515, and main evaporator 506 to allow a second heat transfer fluid to circulate through it. The second heat transfer fluid in the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may typically differ from the heat transfer fluid in the first heat transfer loop 700A1. The second heat transfer fluid may typically be a working fluid with a relatively low GWP (e.g., a refrigerant). The second heat transfer fluid in the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may, for example, be R23, R508B, or LFR5A. The second heat transfer fluid in the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may, for example, be selected based on its performance at relatively ultra-low temperatures.

[0098] The primary climate control system 700A is configured to maintain desired climate conditions in the air-conditioned space 508 by providing all or part of the cooling capacity. More specifically, the first heat transfer loop 700A1 can receive heat energy discharged from the second heat transfer loop 700A2 via the cascaded heat exchanger 514. The second heat transfer loop 700A2 can also be used to maintain desired climate conditions within the interior space 508.

[0099] The first heat transfer circuit 700A1 can operate according to generally known principles to remove heat from the second heat transfer circuit 700A2. The first compressor 501 can be configured to compress the first heat transfer fluid from a relatively low-pressure gas to a relatively high-pressure gas. The relatively high-pressure gas can be discharged from the first compressor 501 and directed to flow through the first condenser 502. According to generally known principles, the first heat transfer fluid can flow through the condenser 502 and dissipate heat to the heat transfer fluid or medium (e.g., air), thereby cooling the heat transfer fluid or medium.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the cooled first heat transfer fluid, which can now be in liquid form, can be configured to flow through a subcooled heat exchanger 509, in which the heat transfer fluid is further cooled before entering the first expander 505.

[0101] At the cascaded heat exchanger 514, the first heat transfer fluid circulating through the first heat transfer loop 700A1 can absorb heat from the second heat transfer fluid circulating through the second heat transfer loop 700A2, thereby heating the first heat transfer fluid and at least partially converting it into a gaseous form. The gaseous first heat transfer fluid can then be returned to the first compressor 501. The process described above can continue while the first heat transfer loop 700A1 is operating. In an embodiment, the heat exchange relationship between the cascaded heat exchanger 514 and the first heat transfer loop 700A1 and the second heat transfer loop 700A2 can, for example, improve the efficiency of the main climate control system 700A by reducing the amount of energy input required to maintain one or more desired climate conditions within the climate-controlled space 508. In an embodiment, the reduction in energy input can, for example, reduce the environmental impact. In an embodiment, the cascaded heat exchanger 514 can reduce the use of high-pressure climate control components (this is achieved, for example, by enabling the use of lower-pressure heat transfer fluids).

[0102] The second heat transfer circuit 700A2 operates according to generally known principles to dissipate heat to the first heat transfer circuit 700A1. The second compressor 512 can be configured to compress the second heat transfer fluid from a relatively low-pressure gas to a relatively high-pressure gas. The relatively high-pressure gas can be discharged from the second compressor 512 and directed to flow through the cascaded heat exchanger 514. According to generally known principles, the second heat transfer fluid can have a heat exchange relationship with the first condenser 502 of the heat transfer fluid in the first heat transfer circuit 700A1, and can dissipate heat to the first heat transfer fluid in the first heat transfer circuit 700A1, thereby cooling the second heat transfer fluid in the second heat transfer circuit 700A2. The cooled second heat transfer working fluid, now in liquid form, can flow to the second expander 516. Therefore, at least a portion of the second heat transfer fluid can be converted to a gaseous form. The second heat transfer fluid, now in a mixed liquid and gaseous form, can flow to the main evaporator 506. At the main evaporator 506, the second heat transfer fluid in the second heat transfer loop 700A2 can absorb heat from the heat transfer medium (e.g., air), heat the second heat transfer fluid, and convert it into a gaseous form.

[0103] like Figure 3C As shown, the second heat transfer loop 700A2 also includes an intake liquid heat exchanger 520. The intake liquid heat exchanger 520 is configured to remove heat from the working fluid upstream of the second expander 516. Heat is removed using the working fluid exiting the main evaporator 506.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may include a superheated heat exchanger 513. The superheated heat exchanger 513 may be configured to remove heat from a second heat transfer fluid downstream of the second compressor 512. The superheated heat exchanger 513 is positioned along a flow path between the second compressor 512 and the cascaded heat exchanger 514. According to one embodiment, a working fluid (e.g., cooling air) may cool the heat transfer fluid (i.e., the working fluid via the first compressor 501 or the second compressor 512) within the condenser 502 and the superheated heat exchanger 513. The condenser 502 and the superheated heat exchanger 513 may exchange heat with the cooling air in sequence. In one embodiment, the cooling air may exchange heat by flowing through the condenser 502 before flowing through the superheated heat exchanger 513. The cooling air may absorb heat and increase its temperature after flowing through the condenser 502 and the superheated heat exchanger 513. Typically, the temperature of the superheated heat exchanger 513 may be higher than the temperature of the condenser 502. Before passing through condenser 502, the temperature of the cooling air can be lower than the temperature of condenser 502. After passing through condenser 502, the temperature of the cooling air can be lower than the temperature of the superheater 513.

[0105] In one embodiment, the primary climate control system 700A may include one or more heat transfer loop components, such as one or more liquid receivers and / or buffer systems. For example, the first heat transfer loop 700A1 includes a first liquid receiver 503 configured to help manage cooling capacity demand fluctuations at the cascaded heat exchanger 514. The first liquid receiver 503 manages cooling capacity demand fluctuations by accumulating a first heat transfer fluid within itself when cooling capacity demand is low and releasing the accumulated first heat transfer fluid when cooling capacity demand is high. The first liquid receiver 503 is located in the flow path between the first condenser 502 and the first expander 505. In an embodiment with a subcooled heat exchanger 509, the first liquid receiver 503 is located in the flow path between the first condenser 502 and the subcooled heat exchanger 509.

[0106] like Figure 3CAs shown, the second heat transfer loop 700A2 includes a second liquid receiver 515 configured to help manage cooling capacity demand fluctuations at the main evaporator 506. The second liquid receiver 515 manages cooling capacity demand fluctuations by accumulating a second heat transfer fluid within itself when cooling capacity demand is low and releasing the accumulated second heat transfer fluid when cooling capacity demand is high. The second liquid receiver 515 is located in the flow path between the second compressor 512 and the second expander 516. In another embodiment, the second liquid receiver 515 may be located in the flow path between the cascaded heat exchanger 514 and the suction liquid heat exchanger 520.

[0107] In one embodiment, the second heat transfer loop 700A2 may further include a buffer system that helps manage fluctuations in cooling capacity demand at the main evaporator 506. Figure 3C As shown, the buffer system includes a buffer system tank 519 controlled by a first buffer control valve 517 and a second buffer control valve 518. In another embodiment, the buffer system tank 519 may include multiple buffer system tanks. The buffer system tank 519 is positioned in the flow path between the main evaporator 506 and the suction liquid heat exchanger 520. It will be understood that the buffer system described herein can stabilize the pressure and temperature in the cascaded climate control loop during startup. For example, during the startup phase (e.g., during the initial pull-down / cooling of the climate control system), the second heat transfer fluid through the main evaporator 506 can be diverted to the buffer system by opening the first buffer system valve 518 and closing the second buffer system valve 517 to accumulate a portion of the second heat transfer fluid within the buffer system tank 519. After the startup phase, the first buffer system valve 518 may be closed and the second buffer system valve 517 may be opened to allow the second heat transfer fluid through the main evaporator 506 to bypass the buffer system.

[0108] The second climate control system 700B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508 through the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 407 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 508.

[0109] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0110] Figure 3DThis is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 800 according to one embodiment, including a main climate control system 800A and a second climate control system 800B. The main climate control system 800A and the second climate control system 800B are in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0111] The main climate control system 800A includes a first heat transfer loop 800A1 and a second heat transfer loop 800A2. In embodiments, the first heat transfer loop 800A1 may alternatively be referred to as the main heat transfer loop 800A1, the high-side heat transfer loop 800A1, the condenser-side heat transfer loop 800A1, the two-stage heat transfer loop 800A1, or the like. In embodiments, the second heat transfer loop 800A2 may alternatively be referred to as the low-side heat transfer loop 800A2, the evaporator-side heat transfer loop 800A2, or the like. The first heat transfer loop 800A1 and the second heat transfer loop 800A2 are in thermal communication.

[0112] The first heat transfer circuit 800A1 can be similar to, for example... Figure 3C The first heat transfer circuit 700A1 shown and described above includes an energy saver 510 added to it. Figure 3D As shown, the first heat transfer circuit 800A1 includes an economizer 510 and an economizer expander 511 in fluid communication with the compressor 501. The economizer 510 is configured to remove heat energy from the first heat transfer fluid upstream of the expander 505. A shunting portion of the first heat transfer fluid upstream of the expander 505 is used to remove heat energy from the remaining portion of the first heat transfer fluid upstream of the expander 505. The remaining portion of the first heat transfer fluid is then directed into the expander 505. After heat exchange at the economizer 510, the shunting portion of the first heat transfer fluid is directed into the compressor 501.

[0113] The second heat transfer circuit 800A2 can be similar to, for example, as follows: Figure 3C The second heat transfer circuit 700A2 shown and described above.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the working fluid may be R134a, R513A, R1234yf, R1234ze or R515B for the first heat transfer circuit 800A1 and R23, R508B or LFR5A for the second heat transfer circuit 800A2.

[0115] The second climate control system 800B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508 through an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 508.

[0116] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0117] Figure 3E This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 900, which includes a main climate control system 900A and a second climate control system 900B. The main climate control system 900A and the second climate control system 900B are thermally connected to a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0118] The main climate control system 900A includes a first heat transfer loop 900A1 and a second heat transfer loop 900A2. In embodiments, the first heat transfer loop 900A1 may alternatively be referred to as a primary heat transfer loop 900A1, a high-side heat transfer loop 900A1, a condenser-side heat transfer loop 900A1, a two-stage heat transfer loop 900A1, or the like. In embodiments, the second heat transfer loop 900A2 may alternatively be referred to as a low-side heat transfer loop 900A2, an evaporator-side heat transfer loop 900A2, or the like. The first heat transfer loop 900A1 and the second heat transfer loop 900A2 are in thermal communication.

[0119] The first heat transfer circuit 900A1 can be similar to, for example... Figure 3C The first heat transfer circuit 700A1 shown and described above.

[0120] The second heat transfer circuit 900A2 can be similar to, for example, as follows: Figure 3C The second heat transfer circuit 700A2 shown and described above, wherein an energy saver 521 is added to the second heat transfer circuit 700A2. Figure 3E As shown, the second heat transfer circuit 900A2 includes an economizer 510 and an economizer expander 521 in fluid communication with the second compressor 512. The economizer 521 is configured to remove heat energy from the second heat transfer fluid upstream of the second expander 516. A portion of the second heat transfer fluid upstream of the second expander 516 is used to remove heat energy, thus removing the remaining heat energy from the second heat transfer fluid upstream of the second expander 516. The remaining portion of the second heat transfer fluid is then directed into the second expander 516. After heat exchange at the economizer 521, the portion of the second heat transfer fluid is directed into the second compressor 512.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the working fluid may be R134a, R513A, R1234yf, R1234ze or R515B for the first heat transfer circuit 900A1 and R23, R508B or LFR5A for the second heat transfer circuit 900A2.

[0122] The second climate control system 900B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508 by using an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 508.

[0123] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0124] Figure 3F This is a schematic diagram of a transport climate control system 1000, which includes a main climate control system 1000A and a second climate control system 1000B. The main climate control system 1000A and the second climate control system 1000B are thermally connected to a climate-controlled space 508 configured to accommodate cargo (not shown).

[0125] The main climate control system 1000A includes a first heat transfer loop 1000A1 and a second heat transfer loop 1000A2. In an embodiment, the first heat transfer loop 1000A1 may alternatively be referred to as a primary heat transfer loop 1000A1, a high-side heat transfer loop 1000A1, a condensation-side heat transfer loop 1000A1, a secondary heat transfer loop 1000A1, or the like. In an embodiment, the second heat transfer loop 1000A2 may alternatively be referred to as a low-side heat transfer loop 1000A2, an evaporation-side heat transfer loop 1000A2, or the like. The first heat transfer loop 1000A1 and the second heat transfer loop 1000A2 are in thermal communication.

[0126] The first heat transfer circuit 1000A1 can be similar to, for example... Figure 3D The first heat transfer circuit 800A1 is shown and described above. The second heat transfer circuit 1000A2 can be similarly exemplified. Figure 3E The second heat transfer circuit 900A2 shown and described above.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the working fluid may be R134a, R513A, R1234yf, R1234ze or R515B for the first heat transfer circuit 1000A1 and R23, R508B or LFR5A for the second heat transfer circuit 1000A2.

[0128] The second climate control system 1000B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 508 by using an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 508.

[0129] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be an ultra-low temperature phase change medium configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 507 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0130] Figure 4A The illustration shows the climate-controlled space 1108 of the transport unit 1100 according to an embodiment. (See also:) Figure 4A As shown, the transport unit 1100 includes a second climate control system 1100B disposed within a climate-controlled space 1108 and a housing 1118 for cargo 1190 having an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the transport unit 1100 may also include one or more components of the main climate control system.

[0131] A primary climate control system (not shown) can provide all or part of the cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 1108. The primary climate control system may, for example, be... Figures 3A to 3F Any of the main control systems 500A, 600A, 700A, 800A, 900A, and 1000A shown and described.

[0132] The second climate control system 1100B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 1108 through an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 1108.

[0133] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0134] The outer casing 1118 can enclose the space used to house the goods 1190. According to one embodiment, the outer casing 1118 completely encloses the space used to house the goods 1190. In another embodiment, the outer casing 1118 can partially enclose the space used to house the goods 1190. The outer casing 1118 can be, for example, packaging, a box, an insulated box, a pallet, or specialized transport packaging for pharmaceuticals and vaccines.

[0135] like Figure 4AAs illustrated, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 is enclosed within the housing 1118 along with the cargo 1190. After the housing 1118 is removed from the climate-controlled space 1118, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can continue to provide cooling capacity, and the cargo 1190 can maintain the required temperature for a period of time after being removed from the transport unit 1100 and, for example, before the cargo 1190 is consumed or relocated to another climate-controlled space. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can provide cooling capacity when, for example, the primary cooling system is unable to provide sufficient cooling capacity to reach the ultra-low temperature range within the climate-controlled space 1108.

[0136] Figure 4B The illustration shows a climate-controlled space 1208 of a transport unit 1200 according to another embodiment. (See illustration for further details.) Figure 4B As shown, the transport unit 1200 includes a second climate control system 1200B disposed within a climate-controlled space 1108 and a housing 1118 for cargo 1190 having an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the transport unit 1200 may also include one or more components of a primary climate control system.

[0137] A primary climate control system (not shown) can provide all or part of the cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 1108. The primary climate control system may, for example, be... Figures 3A to 3F Any of the main control systems 500A, 600A, 700A, 800A, 900A, and 1000A shown and described.

[0138] The second climate control system 1200B can provide backup or additional cooling capacity for the climate-controlled space 1108 through an ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 that releases or absorbs heat energy from the climate-controlled space 1108.

[0139] The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can be configured to absorb heat energy from the surrounding environment when it changes from one phase to another. In some embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can be a sublimation / evaporation medium, such as, for example, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0140] The outer casing 1118 can enclose the space used to house the goods 1190. According to one embodiment, the outer casing 1118 completely encloses the space used to house the goods 1190. In another embodiment, the outer casing 1118 can partially enclose the space used to house the goods 1190. The outer casing 1118 can be, for example, packaging, a box, an insulated box, a pallet, or specialized transport packaging for pharmaceuticals and vaccines.

[0141] like Figure 4BAs illustrated, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 is positioned outside the housing 1118. The ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 can provide cooling capacity when, for example, the primary cooling system is unable to provide sufficient cooling to achieve the ultra-low temperature range within the climate-controlled space 1108. In embodiments, the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1107 may be positioned both inside and outside the housing 1118.

[0142] Figure 5 The illustration shows a housing 1218 configured to accommodate cargo 1290 according to an embodiment. Figure 5 As shown, the outer casing 1218 is an insulated box with a structural layer 1218A and an insulation layer 1218B. Goods 1290 are housed within a space 1218C enclosed by the insulation layer 1218B. Figure 5 As illustrated, a portion of the insulation layer 1218B is moved to one side to show the space 1218C and cargo 1290 within the housing 1218. In one embodiment, a portion of the insulation layer 1218B may be an insulation cover detachable from the insulation layer 1218B. An ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1207 is illustrated outside the housing 1218. It should be understood that the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1207 may be placed together with the cargo 1290 within the space 1218C to provide backup or additional cooling capacity. It should also be understood that the housing 1218 may be advantageous in maintaining ultra-low temperatures when the primary climate control system is unavailable. For example, cargo 1290 may be an mRNA vaccine that needs to be maintained within an ultra-low temperature range. The housing 1218 may maintain ultra-low temperatures for a predetermined period of time, thereby allowing the vaccine, for example, to be moved to a cryostat within a hospital or used before the ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1207 is completely consumed.

[0143] Figure 6 The illustration shows a housing 1318 configured to accommodate cargo 1390 according to another embodiment. Figure 6 As shown, the outer casing 1318 is an insulated box having a structural layer 1318A and an insulation layer 1318B. The cargo 1390 is housed within a space 1318C, at least partially enclosed by the insulation layer 1318B. An ultra-low temperature phase change medium 1307 is placed together with the cargo 1390 within the space 1318C to provide backup or additional cooling capacity. According to yet another embodiment, the cargo 1390 may, for example, be... Figure 5 The outer casing 1218 for housing cargo 1290 shown and described.

[0144] Aspects. Note that any of aspects 1 to 12 can be combined with any of aspects 13 to 20.

[0145] Aspect 1. A transportation climate control system configured to maintain extremely low temperatures over an extended period of time, the transportation climate control system comprising:

[0146] A primary climate control system, comprising a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a main evaporator, the main evaporator being configured to be in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space; and

[0147] A second climate control system, comprising an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated inside or outside a cargo enclosure.

[0148] The second climate control system is configured to be thermally connected to the climate-controlled space, the main climate control system, and the cargo to provide additional or backup climate control capabilities at ultra-low temperatures.

[0149] Aspect 2. The transport climate control system according to Aspect 1, wherein the main climate control system includes a liquid receiver.

[0150] The liquid receiver is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator.

[0151] The liquid receiver is positioned on the working fluid flow path between the first condenser and the first expander, and

[0152] The liquid receiver is configured to contain the working fluid and manage demand fluctuations of the main evaporator.

[0153] Aspect 3. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 and 2, wherein the main climate control system includes an intake liquid heat exchanger.

[0154] The intake liquid heat exchanger is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator.

[0155] The suction liquid heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid in the working fluid flow path between the main evaporator and the compressor, and

[0156] The intake liquid heat exchanger is positioned on the working fluid flow path between the first condenser and the first expander.

[0157] Aspect 4: The transportation climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the main climate control system includes an energy-saving device.

[0158] The energy-saving device is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, and

[0159] The energy-saving device is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid at the upstream working fluid flow path from the main evaporator.

[0160] Aspect 5. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the main climate control system includes a subcooling heat exchanger.

[0161] The subcooling heat exchanger is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, and

[0162] The subcooled heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the first condenser.

[0163] Aspect 6. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the ultra-low temperature is -30°C or below -30°C.

[0164] Aspect 7. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the main climate control system includes a second compressor, a second expander, and a cascaded heat exchanger, wherein

[0165] The second compressor, the cascaded heat exchanger, and the second expander are configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator.

[0166] The cascaded heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid passing through the first compressor, and

[0167] The first compressor, the first expander, and the first condenser are configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the first compressor.

[0168] Aspect 8. The transport climate control system according to aspect 7, wherein the main climate control system includes at least one of the following:

[0169] A first liquid receiver, in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the first compressor, is configured to contain the working fluid passing through the first compressor and manage demand fluctuations of the cascaded heat exchanger.

[0170] A second liquid receiver, which is in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, is configured to contain the working fluid passing through the first compressor and to manage demand fluctuations in the main evaporator.

[0171] Aspect 9. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 7 and 8, wherein the main climate control system includes at least one of the following:

[0172] A first economizer heat exchanger and a first economizer expander, the first economizer heat exchanger and the first economizer expander being in fluid communication with the first compressor and upstream of the cascaded heat exchanger, the first economizer being configured to pre-cool the working fluid passing through the cascaded heat exchanger; and

[0173] The second economizer heat exchanger and the second economizer expander are in fluid communication with the second compressor and are located upstream of the main evaporator. The second economizer is configured to pre-cool the working fluid passing through the main evaporator.

[0174] Aspect 10. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 7 to 9, wherein the main climate control system further comprises at least one of the following:

[0175] A subcooling heat exchanger, the subcooling heat exchanger being in fluid communication with a working fluid passing through the first compressor, the subcooling heat exchanger being configured to remove heat energy from the working fluid; and

[0176] A superheated heat exchanger is provided, which is in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, and is configured to remove heat from the working fluid.

[0177] Aspect 11. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 7 to 9 further includes:

[0178] A second energy-saving heat exchanger, configured to pre-cool the working fluid passing through the main evaporator; or a buffer system comprising a buffer system tank, a first buffer system valve, and a second buffer system valve.

[0179] The buffer system tank is located upstream of the second energy-saving heat exchanger and downstream of the first buffer system valve and the second buffer system valve.

[0180] Aspect 12. The transport climate control system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 11, wherein the ultra-low temperature phase change medium is at least one of liquid nitrogen and dry ice.

[0181] Aspect 13. A method for maintaining climate control over a climate-controlled space at extremely low temperatures over an extended period of time, the method comprising:

[0182] A main climate control system is operated to provide cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space, the main climate control system including a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a main evaporator configured to be in thermal communication with the climate-controlled space; and

[0183] A second climate control system is operated to provide additional or backup cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space at the ultra-low temperature. The second climate control system includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated in a shell for housing cargo. The primary climate control system and the second climate control system are configured to be in thermal communication with the climate-controlled space.

[0184] Aspect 14. The method according to aspect 13 further includes:

[0185] The fluctuating pressure affecting the first compressor is suppressed by storing a portion of the working fluid passing through the main evaporator in a first liquid receiver disposed in the flow path between the first condenser and the first expander.

[0186] Aspect 15. The method according to any one of aspects 13 to 14 further includes:

[0187] Heat energy is removed from the working fluid upstream of the main evaporator by making the working fluid from upstream of the main evaporator thermally connected to the working fluid from downstream of the main evaporator via a suction liquid refrigerant heat exchanger.

[0188] Aspect 16. The method according to any one of aspects 13 to 15 further includes:

[0189] The following steps are used to remove the heat energy upstream of the first expander:

[0190] A portion of the working fluid upstream of the first expander is diverted to obtain a diverted portion of the working fluid.

[0191] The split portion of the working fluid is expanded to obtain a cooled split portion of the working fluid.

[0192] The remaining portion of the working fluid upstream of the first expander is cooled by using the cooling branch of the working fluid through the first energy-saving device; or

[0193] The following steps are used to remove heat energy upstream of the second expander:

[0194] A portion of the working fluid upstream of the second expander is diverted to obtain a diverted portion of the working fluid.

[0195] The split portion of the working fluid is expanded to obtain a cooled split portion of the working fluid.

[0196] The remaining portion of the working fluid upstream of the second expander is cooled by using the cooling diversion portion of the working fluid through the second energy-saving device.

[0197] Aspect 17. The method according to any one of aspects 13 to 16 further includes:

[0198] Heat energy is removed from the working fluid passing through the first compressor by exchanging heat energy with a second working fluid disposed on the working fluid side of the subcooling heat exchanger; or

[0199] Heat energy is removed from the working fluid passing through the second compressor by exchanging heat energy with the second working fluid disposed on the working fluid side of the superheated heat exchanger.

[0200] Aspect 18. The method according to any one of aspects 13 to 17 further includes:

[0201] During startup, pressure and temperature are stabilized by closing the first buffer control valve that directs a portion of the working fluid into the buffer system tank; and

[0202] After the start-up operation, the buffer system is bypassed by opening the first buffer control valve and closing the second buffer control valve.

[0203] Aspect 19. The method according to any one of Aspects 13 to 18, wherein the ultra-low temperature phase change medium is at least one of liquid nitrogen and dry ice.

[0204] Aspect 20: The method according to any one of aspects 13 to 19, wherein the ultra-low temperature is -30°C or below -30°C.

[0205] The terminology used in this specification is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, the terms "a," "an," and "described" also include the plural form. The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," as used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0206] Regarding the foregoing description, it should be understood that changes may be made in detail, particularly in terms of the construction materials used and the shape, size, and arrangement of components, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This specification and the described embodiments are merely exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A transportation climate control system configured to maintain extremely low temperatures over an extended period of time, the transportation climate control system comprising: A main climate control system, comprising a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a main evaporator, the main evaporator being configured to be in thermal communication with a climate-controlled space; and A second climate control system, comprising an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated inside or outside a cargo housing. The second climate control system is configured to be thermally connected to the climate-controlled space, the main climate control system, and the cargo to provide additional or backup climate control capabilities at ultra-low temperatures. The ultra-low temperature is -30℃ or below -30℃.

2. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The main climate control system includes a liquid receiver. The liquid receiver is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator. The liquid receiver is positioned on the working fluid flow path between the first condenser and the first expander, and The liquid receiver is configured to contain the working fluid and manage demand fluctuations of the main evaporator.

3. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The main climate control system includes an intake liquid heat exchanger. The intake liquid heat exchanger is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator. The suction liquid heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid in the working fluid flow path between the main evaporator and the compressor, and The intake liquid heat exchanger is positioned on the working fluid flow path between the first condenser and the first expander.

4. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The main climate control system includes an energy-saving device. The energy-saving device is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, and The energy-saving device is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid at the upstream working fluid flow path from the main evaporator.

5. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The main climate control system includes a subcooling heat exchanger. The subcooling heat exchanger is configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator, and The subcooled heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the first condenser.

6. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The main climate control system includes a second compressor, a second expander, and a cascaded heat exchanger, wherein... The second compressor, the cascaded heat exchanger, and the second expander are configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the main evaporator. The cascaded heat exchanger is configured to be in thermal communication with the working fluid passing through the first compressor, and The first compressor, the first expander, and the first condenser are configured to be in fluid communication with the working fluid passing through the first compressor.

7. The transport climate control system according to claim 1, wherein, The ultra-low temperature phase change medium is at least one of liquid nitrogen and dry ice.

8. A method for maintaining climate control over a climate-controlled space at extremely low temperatures over an extended period of time, the method comprising: A main climate control system is operated to provide cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space, the main climate control system including a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expander, and a main evaporator configured to be in thermal communication with the climate-controlled space; and A second climate control system is operated to provide additional or backup cooling capacity to the climate-controlled space at the ultra-low temperature. The second climate control system includes an ultra-low temperature phase change medium encapsulated within a shell for housing cargo. The primary climate control system and the second climate control system are configured to be in thermal communication with the climate-controlled space. The ultra-low temperature is -30℃ or below -30℃.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: The fluctuating pressure affecting the first compressor is suppressed by storing a portion of the working fluid passing through the main evaporator in a first liquid receiver disposed in the flow path between the first condenser and the first expander.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising: Heat energy is removed from the working fluid upstream of the main evaporator by making the working fluid from upstream of the main evaporator thermally connected to the working fluid from downstream of the main evaporator via a suction liquid refrigerant heat exchanger.

11. The method of claim 8, further comprising: The following steps are used to remove the heat energy upstream of the first expander: A portion of the working fluid upstream of the first expander is diverted to obtain a diverted portion of the working fluid. The split portion of the working fluid is expanded to obtain a cooled split portion of the working fluid. The remaining portion of the working fluid upstream of the first expander is cooled by using the cooling diversion portion of the working fluid through the first energy-saving device; or The following steps are used to remove heat energy upstream of the second expander: A portion of the working fluid upstream of the second expander is diverted to obtain a diverted portion of the working fluid. The split portion of the working fluid is expanded to obtain a cooled split portion of the working fluid. The remaining portion of the working fluid upstream of the second expander is cooled by using the cooling diversion portion of the working fluid through the second energy-saving device.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: During startup, pressure and temperature are stabilized by closing the first buffer control valve that directs a portion of the working fluid into the buffer system tank; as well as After the start-up operation, the buffer system is bypassed by opening the first buffer control valve and closing the second buffer control valve.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The ultra-low temperature phase change medium is at least one of liquid nitrogen and dry ice.

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