Novel system for loading and transporting low-temperature frozen materials

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to shipping boxes, Dewar flasks and systems for transporting frozen material. More specifically, embodiments described herein include and / or implement Dewar bottle cap protection systems, data recording activation, controlled coolant escape, efficient stacking options during shipping, overflow protection to ensure safe and efficient shipping of frozen samples and materials, and the like. Exemplary uses of the systems described herein include reliably shipping frozen material under certain environmental conditions that can be tracked and validated.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 374,346 filed on September 1, 2022, the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Conventional cryogenic dewars for shipping frozen samples and materials have long-standing deficiencies that have not yet been corrected. For example, conventional cryogenic dewars lack features that protect the cover of the cryogenic dewar from breaking during transport when a load is placed on the cryogenic dewar and / or the dewar falls on top of it. In addition, conventional cryogenic dewars lack a sophisticated cover that can safely accommodate a data logging system during transport. Conventional cryogenic dewars also lack features for preventing unregulated escape of coolants (such as liquid nitrogen) during transport and / or storage of frozen samples and materials. The dimensions of conventional cryogenic dewars are not suitable for cell therapy products.

[0004] Traditional shipping containers or boxes for transporting cryogenic Dewar flasks also have long-standing defects. For example, such traditional shipping containers or boxes cannot be securely stacked during storage or transportation. Moreover, traditional shipping containers or boxes require bulky and heavy foam inserts for protecting cryogenic Dewar flasks during transportation. Such inserts are heavy, thick and not finely customized, thus causing increased shipping costs and inefficient protection of cryogenic Dewar flasks from vibration and impact. Traditional shipping containers or boxes also include thin closure mechanisms (such as clamps) that prevent the safe closure of the shipping container to prevent the cryogenic Dewar flask from overflowing from the shipping container during transportation. These features are traditionally assembled by end users from commercial off-the-shelf products. Traditional shipping containers lack appropriate document racks and label labels necessary for shipping.

[0005] What is needed is a cryogenic dewar and shipping container that addresses the above deficiencies and includes a dewar cap protection system, data logging enablement, controlled cryogen escape, efficient stacking options during shipping, overfill protection to ensure safe and efficient shipping of frozen samples and materials, etc. The system described herein allows for reliable shipping options for frozen materials under specific environmental conditions that can be tracked and verified. Summary of the invention

[0006] Briefly and generally, the present invention relates to a shipping box. Such a shipping box may include a lined compartment, the lined compartment including: a bottom; one or more walls, the one or more walls extending from the bottom so that the bottom and the plurality of walls form a cavity and an opening for entering the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the bottom; and a shock absorbing liner disposed on an inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic shipping container. Such a shipping container may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment so that when the lid is engaged with the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment. In such embodiments, the shock absorbing liner has a thickness of up to 1.75 inches or a thickness of between 1 inch and 1.75 inches or a thickness of about 1 inch.

[0007] The present disclosure also relates to a cryogenic Dewar flask for shipping frozen materials. Such a cryogenic Dewar flask may include an insulated shell, the insulated shell including: a cavity for containing the frozen material; and a plurality of load-bearing handles, the plurality of load-bearing handles being disposed on the upper surface and the outer surface of the insulated shell. Such a cryogenic Dewar flask also includes a cover, the cover being configured to reversibly engage with the insulated shell, so that when the cover is engaged with the insulated shell, the cover forms a seal above the insulated shell. In such embodiments, when the cover is engaged with the insulated shell, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend at least flush with the cover in a vertical direction, and the cover is configured to reversibly accommodate a condition monitoring system.

[0008] The present disclosure also relates to a system for transporting frozen materials. The system may include a cryogenic dewar flask for shipping the frozen materials and including: an insulated shell including: a cavity for containing the frozen materials; and a plurality of weight-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated shell; and a dewar flask cover configured to reversibly engage with the insulated shell so that the dewar flask cover forms a seal over the insulated shell when the dewar flask cover engages with the insulated shell. The system may also include a shipping box configured to house the cryogenic dewar when in use, the shipping box comprising: a lined compartment, the lined compartment comprising: a bottom; one or more walls extending from the bottom such that the bottom and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the bottom; and a shock absorbing liner disposed on an inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic dewar cover; and a cover configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment such that when the cover is engaged with the lined compartment, the cover forms a seal over the lined compartment. In such a system, when the cover is engaged with the insulated housing, the plurality of weight-bearing handles extend at least flush with the dewar cover in a vertical direction, the dewar cover being configured to reversibly house the condition monitoring system, and the shock absorbing liner having a thickness of up to 1.75 inches or a thickness of between 1 inch and 1.75 inches or a thickness of about 1 inch.

[0009] In various embodiments, the plurality of weight-bearing handles extend vertically beyond the cover when the cover is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0010] Other aspects and advantages of the disclosed techniques detailed herein will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example only, the principles of these techniques. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The teachings claimed and / or described herein are further described in terms of exemplary embodiments. These exemplary embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, in which like reference numerals represent like structures in the multiple views of the drawings, and in which:

[0012] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for transporting frozen material according to various embodiments.

[0013] Figure 2 is a side view of a cryogenic dewar according to various embodiments.

[0014] Figure 3 According to various implementation schemes Figure 2A top-down perspective view of a cryogenic Dewar flask.

[0015] Figure 4 According to various implementation schemes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of a cryogenic Dewar flask.

[0016] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of a shipping box according to various embodiments.

[0017] Figure 6 According to various embodiments, a cryogenic Dewar vessel is provided. Figure 5 A top perspective view and a side cutaway view of a shipping box.

[0018] Figure 7 According to various implementation schemes Figure 6 Side cutaway view of the shipping box and cryogenic Dewar flask.

[0019] Figure 8 is an illustration of multiple systems for transporting frozen materials stacked on top of each other, according to various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The present disclosure addresses the need for a system for safely and efficiently transporting cryogenic frozen materials. More specifically, the present disclosure addresses the need for a cryogenic dewar that includes features for protecting its cover during shipping, a complex cover that can safely accommodate a data logging system during shipping, and features for preventing unregulated escape of coolants (such as liquid nitrogen) during shipping. The present disclosure also addresses the need for shipping containers that can be securely stacked and stacked during storage or transportation, which do not require bulky and heavy foam inserts for protecting the cryogenic dewar during transportation, and reliable closure components for securing the closure of the shipping container to prevent the cryogenic dewar from spilling out of the shipping container during transportation. The present disclosure addresses the need for document holders and signs necessary for shipping on shipping containers.

[0021] It should be understood that the description herein is exemplary and illustrative only, and not limiting of the claims. In this application, unless otherwise specifically stated, the use of the singular includes the plural meaning.

[0022] All documents or portions of documents cited in this application (including but not limited to patents, patent applications, articles, books and papers) are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any purpose. As utilized in accordance with this disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, the following terms shall be understood to have the following meanings:

[0023] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0024] Unless otherwise stated or obvious from the context, as used herein, the term "or" is to be construed as inclusive and encompasses both "or" and "and."

[0025] As used herein, the term "and / or" should be considered as a specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components, with or without the other. Thus, the term "and / or" as used in phrases such as "A and / or B" herein is intended to include A and B; A or B; A (alone); and B (alone). Similarly, the term "and / or" as used in phrases such as "A, B, and / or C" is intended to cover each of the following: A, B, and C; A, B, or C; A or C; A or B; B or C; A and C; A and B; B and C; A (alone); B (alone); and C (alone).

[0026] As used herein, the terms "such as" and "ie" are used by way of example only, are not intended to be limiting, and should not be construed as referring only to those items explicitly listed in the specification.

[0027] The terms “or more”, “at least”, “more than” and the like, such as “at least one”, are understood to include, but are not limited to, at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 ,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74,75,76,77,78,79,80,81,82,83,84,85,86,87,88,89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129 9, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149 or 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 or more. Also included are any larger numbers or fractions therebetween.

[0028] In contrast, the term "not more than" includes every value less than the stated value, and also includes any smaller numbers or fractions therebetween.

[0029] The terms “plurality,” “at least two,” “two or more,” “at least a second,” etc., are understood to include, but are not limited to, at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89 9, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149 or 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 or more. Also including any larger number or fraction therebetween.

[0030] Unless otherwise specified or apparent from the context, as used herein, the term "about" refers to a value or composition within an acceptable error range for a particular value or composition as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value or composition is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, according to the practice of the art, "about" or "approximately" may mean within one or more than one standard deviation. "About" or "approximately" may mean a range of up to 10% (i.e., ± 10%). Therefore, "about" may be understood as being within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, 0.01% or 0.001% greater or less than the value. When a particular value or composition is provided in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the meaning of "about" or "approximately" should be assumed to be within an acceptable error range for the particular value or composition.

[0031] The units, prefixes, and symbols used herein are provided in their International System of Units (SI) accepted form. Numerical ranges are inclusive of the numbers defining the range.

[0032] As used throughout, the terms "shipping box" and "shipping container" are used interchangeably and refer to a sealable container used to hold and transport a cryogenic Dewar.

[0033] As used throughout, the terms "cryo-frozen," "frozen material," or "frozen specimen" are used interchangeably and refer to materials that are stored and / or transported in a frozen or mostly frozen state at less than or equal to -150° C. Non-limiting example materials include biological specimens from donors, biological reagents, biological compositions, and the like.

[0034] As used throughout, the terms "shock absorbing lining" or "shock absorbing material" are interchangeable and refer to materials that reduce the critical acceleration and critical velocity of an article subjected to impact due to shock and / or vibration. The material should also have a resilient characteristic to absorb multiple shock and vibration events. An example can be made of a nanotechnology foam having a thickness of at least 1 inch. In other embodiments, the thickness of the nanotechnology foam is between about 1 inch and 2.25 inches. In other embodiments, the thickness of the nanotechnology foam is between 1 inch and 1.75 inches.

[0035] As used throughout, the term "data logger" refers to a system that monitors and records temperature data and stores it locally. Non-limiting examples of data loggers include HOBO devices. (Onset Computer Corporation, MA, USA)

[0036] As used throughout, the term "cryogenic dewar" refers to a vacuum flask of a special type for storing cryogens or coolants (such as liquid nitrogen or liquid helium) with boiling points much lower than room temperature. Cryogenic dewars can take several different forms, including open barrels, flasks with loose-fitting stoppers, and self-pressurized tanks. All dewars have walls consisting of two or more layers, wherein a high vacuum is maintained between the layers. This provides very good insulation between the inside and outside of the dewar, which reduces the rate of evaporation of the contents. Precautions are taken in the design of the dewar to safely manage the gases released when the liquid slowly boils. The simplest dewar allows gas to escape through the open top or through a loose-fitting stopper to prevent explosion hazards. More complex dewars gather gas above the liquid and keep it under high pressure. This increases the boiling point of the liquid, thereby allowing its shelf life to be extended. Excess vapor pressure is automatically released by a safety valve. In the embodiments of the full text, the cryogenic dewar is configured to allow transportation and / or storage of frozen materials or samples.

[0037] As used throughout, the term "condition monitoring system" refers to a system that monitors environmental conditions such as internal and external temperature, tilt, GPS location, battery life, pressure, humidity, light exposure, shock and vibration, etc., with the ability to send data to a web portal in real time. Non-limiting examples of condition monitoring systems include the Sendum PT300D / 4G. (Sendum Wireless Corp. BC, CA, Canada)

[0038] The terms "hydrophobic fleece covered vapor plug" and "vapor plug at least partially covered by hydrophobic fleece" are used interchangeably and refer to the specific type of vapor plug being used. Dry vapor shipping devices may use vapor plugs, which are typically made of EPS. Hydrophobic Fleece Covered Vapor Plugs cover the EPS with hydrophobic fleece to slow the rate at which nitrogen vapor escapes while also preventing freezing and icing that may result in the pressure vessel. In various embodiments, the vapor plug is wrapped with hydrophobic fleece. Non-limiting examples of hydrophobic fleece include spun high density polypropylene spun into a fleece. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece is configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor (or other cooling gas) to escape from the insulated outer shell of the cryogenic Dewar at a controlled rate.

[0039] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure relates.

[0040] In various embodiments, the system may include a shipping box. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include a lined compartment. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include a bottom. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include one or more walls extending from the bottom. In various embodiments, the bottom and the plurality of walls may form a cavity and an opening for entering the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening may be disposed relative to the bottom. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include a shock absorbing liner disposed on the inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic shipping container. In various embodiments, the shipping container may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment so that when the lid engages with the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal above the lined compartment. In various embodiments, the thickness of the shock absorbing liner may be up to 1.75 inches or between 1 inch and 1.75 inches or about 1 inch in thickness.

[0041] In various embodiments, the shipping case can also include a plurality of draw-out latches. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of draw-out latches can include a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the lid. In various embodiments, the plurality of draw-out latches can be configured to reversibly couple the lid to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

[0042] In various embodiments, the lined compartment may also form a plurality of openings. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of openings may be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

[0043] In various embodiments, the cover can further include a ridged structure disposed on an outer surface and a top surface of the cover. In various embodiments, the base can further define a slot disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the base. In various embodiments, the slot can be configured to receive the ridged structure so that a pair of shipping containers can be stacked on top of each other so that a first container including the slot can be secured to a second shipping container including the ridged structure.

[0044] In various embodiments, the base can be configured to reversibly couple to a pallet to facilitate transport.

[0045] In various embodiments, the shipping box may further include a label panel attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

[0046] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner may form a plurality of recessed air holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

[0047] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing layer may form a slot configured to reversibly secure a data logger.

[0048] In various embodiments, the system may include a cryogenic dewar flask for shipping frozen materials. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar flask may include an insulated shell. In various embodiments, the insulated shell may include: a cavity for containing the frozen material; and a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on the upper surface and the outer surface of the insulated shell. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar flask may also include a cover configured to reversibly engage with the insulated shell so that when the cover is engaged with the insulated shell, the cover forms a seal above the insulated shell. In such embodiments, when the cover is engaged with the insulated shell, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend at least flush with the cover in a vertical direction, and the cover is configured to reversibly accommodate a condition monitoring system.

[0049] In various embodiments, the plurality of weight-bearing handles may extend vertically beyond the cover when the cover is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0050] In various embodiments, the cryogenic Dewar for shipping frozen materials described above may further include a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to the interior surface of the cavity.

[0051] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar for shipping frozen materials further comprises a vapor plug at least partially wrapped by a hydrophobic fleece located above the vapor plug. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece can be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated outer shell of the cryogenic dewar at a reduced rate.

[0052] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar can include an insulated outer shell. In various embodiments, the insulated outer shell can include: a cavity for containing the cryogenic material; and a plurality of weight-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated outer shell. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar can include a dewar cover configured to reversibly engage with the insulated outer shell such that when the dewar cover is engaged with the insulated outer shell, the dewar cover forms a seal over the insulated outer shell.

[0053] In various embodiments, the system may also include a shipping box configured to accommodate the cryogenic Dewar. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include a lined compartment. In various embodiments, the lined compartment may include: a bottom; and one or more walls extending from the bottom so that the bottom and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for entering the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening may be disposed opposite the bottom. In various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner may be disposed on the inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic Dewar. In various embodiments, the shipping box may include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment so that when the lid engages with the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal above the lined compartment. In such systems, when the Dewar lid engages with the insulated housing, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend at least flush with the Dewar lid in a vertical direction. In various embodiments, the Dewar lid may be configured to accommodate a condition monitoring system. In various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner may be up to 1.75 inches thick, or between 1 inch and 1.75 inches thick, or about 1 inch thick.

[0054] In various embodiments, the plurality of weight-bearing handles may extend vertically beyond the cover when the cover is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0055] In various embodiments, the above-described system for transporting frozen materials may further include a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to the interior surface of the cavity.

[0056] In various embodiments, the system for transporting frozen materials can also include a vapor plug at least partially wrapped by a hydrophobic fleece located above the vapor plug. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece can be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated outer shell of the cryogenic Dewar at a reduced rate.

[0057] In various embodiments, the above-mentioned system for transporting frozen materials may also include a plurality of drawer latches. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of drawer latches may include a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the lid. In various embodiments, the plurality of drawer latches may be configured to reversibly couple the lid to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

[0058] In various embodiments, the lined compartment may form a plurality of openings. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of openings may be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

[0059] In various embodiments, the lid of the shipping container can also include a ridged structure disposed on an outer surface and a top surface of the lid. In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping container can also form a slot disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the bottom. In various embodiments, the slot can be configured to receive the ridged structure so that a pair of shipping boxes can be stacked on top of each other so that a first container including the slot can be secured to a second shipping container including the ridged structure.

[0060] In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping container can be configured to reversibly couple to a pallet to facilitate transport.

[0061] In various embodiments, the shipping container can include a label sheet attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

[0062] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner of the shipping container may form a plurality of recessed air holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

[0063] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing layer of the shipping container may form a slot configured to reversibly secure a data logger.

[0064] Various embodiments are described in further detail in the description that follows.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, various embodiments of the present disclosure include a system 101 for transporting frozen materials. In various embodiments, the system 101 may include: a cryogenic dewar 103, the cryogenic dewar for shipping the frozen material; and a shipping box 105, the shipping box is configured to accommodate the cryogenic dewar 103. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 may include an insulated shell 107, the insulated shell may form a cavity 109, the cavity is used to contain the frozen material. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 may include a plurality of weight-bearing handles 111, the plurality of weight-bearing handles are disposed on the upper surface and the outer surface of the insulated shell 107. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 may also include a dewar cover 113, the dewar cover is configured to reversibly engage with the insulated shell 107, so that when the dewar cover 113 is engaged with the insulated shell 107, the dewar cover 113 forms a seal above the insulated shell 107. In various embodiments, the weighted handle 111 can extend at least flush with the dewar cover 113 in a vertical direction when the cover 113 is engaged with the insulated housing 107. In various embodiments, the dewar cover 113 can be configured to house the condition monitoring system 121.

[0066] In various embodiments, the shipping case 105 of the system 101 can be configured to house the cryogenic Dewar 103 when in use. In various embodiments, the shipping case 105 can include a lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, the lined compartment 115 can be made of: a bottom; and one or more walls extending from the bottom such that the bottom and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening can be disposed opposite the bottom. In various embodiments, a shock absorbing liner 117 can be disposed on an inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic Dewar 103. According to various embodiments, in Figure 1 and Figures 5 to 8 In the shipping box 105 of FIG. 1 , the shock absorbing liner 117 covers most, if not all, of the cavity of the lined compartment 115. The shipping box 105 may also include a lid 119 that is configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, when the lid 119 is engaged with the lined compartment 115, the lid 119 forms a seal over the lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, the thickness of the shock absorbing liner 117 may be up to 2 inches. In various embodiments, Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7The shock absorbing liner 117 in the can be at least 1 inch thick and can be made of nanotechnology foam. More specifically, according to various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner can be about 1 inch thick along the wall, and the shock absorbing liner can be at least 1 inch thick at the corners. In various embodiments, nanotechnology foam can be integrated into the shipping box 105 to enclose the cryogenic dewar flask 103 during transportation. In various embodiments, the nanotechnology foam can disperse vibration energy during travel and can have a shock absorbing property increased over traditional foam inserts. In various embodiments, the use of this new nanotechnology foam can allow a thinner foam layer to be used during transportation. This can reduce weight and reduce shipping costs. In various embodiments, the nanotechnology foam layer can be reduced from 2 inches to 1 inch, thus making the entire shipping box 105 container smaller (as needed). Other non-limiting examples of shock absorbing materials include polyethylene foam and polypropylene foam with a thickness of about 2 inches.

[0067] Figures 2 to 7 Depicted are additional technical features of the cryogenic dewar 103 according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, when the dewar cover 113 is engaged with the insulated shell 107, the plurality of weight-bearing handles 111 may extend vertically beyond the dewar cover 113. In various embodiments, when engaged, the plurality of weight-bearing handles 111 may extend at least to the height of the dewar cover 113. In various embodiments, the plurality of weight-bearing handles 111 may be positioned so that if a load is placed on top of the shipping box 105, the weight-bearing handles may absorb such load. Thus, according to various embodiments, the plurality of weight-bearing handles 111 may have a specific height to provide further protection to the cover 113 and the top of the cryogenic dewar 103.

[0068] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 may also include a temperature probe locking system 123 that is reversibly coupled to an interior surface of the dewar cavity 109 . Figure 4 A temperature probe locking system 123 is illustrated as a screwless, easy-to-use probe locking feature according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 may also include a conventional EPS vapor plug 125 that is wrapped with a hydrophobic fleece fabric located above the vapor plug. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece fabric may be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated enclosure 107 at a reduced rate while releasing pressure from the interior of the dewar. Figure 4 As seen in and discussed herein, according to various embodiments, the dewar cap 113 can be configured to reversibly accommodate a condition monitoring system 121. A non-limiting example of such a condition monitoring system includes a Sendum PT300D with a Bluetooth enabled temperature probe. Figure 4In the embodiments, according to various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar further includes a pan temperature probe 126 .

[0069] Figures 5 to 8 Additional technical features of the shipping box 105 of the system 101 according to various embodiments are depicted. In various embodiments, the shipping box 105 may also include a plurality of draw-out latches 127. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of draw-out latches 127 has a first member 129 disposed on the lined compartment 115 and a corresponding second member 131 disposed on the shipping box lid 119. In various embodiments, the plurality of draw-out latches 127 may be configured to reversibly couple the shipping box lid 119 to the lined compartment 115 when each of the first members 129 is engaged with the corresponding second member 131. In various embodiments, the draw-out latches 127 may be different from the fastening mechanisms previously used in shipping containers. Previously, toggle clamps have been conventionally used. Due to the size of the shipping container, such clamps can be unfastened during shipping. Here, the draw-out latches 127 absorb vibrations and will not be unfastened, thereby solving this unmet need.

[0070] In various embodiments, the lined compartment 115 of the shipping box 105 can form a plurality of openings 132. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of openings 132 can be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches 127. Figures 5 to 8 In accordance with various embodiments, the plurality of openings 132 may be molded as through holes that allow the draw latch 127 to be sealed with a cable tie. Additional non-limiting examples of acceptable bands include plastic strips, padlocks, steel wires, serialized seals, and the like.

[0071] In various embodiments, the shipping box cover 119 may include a plurality of ridge structures 133 disposed on the outer and top surfaces of the shipping box cover 119. In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping box 105 forms a plurality of slots (not shown) disposed on the outer and bottom surfaces of the bottom of the shipping box 105. Figure 8 As shown, according to various embodiments, the plurality of slots can be configured to receive the plurality of ridge structures 133 so that a pair of shipping boxes can be stacked on top of each other so that a first shipping container having the plurality of slots can be secured to a second shipping container having the plurality of ridge structures 133. The bottom of the shipping box 105 can also be configured to reversibly couple to a pallet for ease of transport.

[0072] like Figure 6As shown, according to various embodiments, the shipping box 105 may also include a label plate 135 that is attached to the outer surface. Traditionally, labels may be adhered to the shipping container and may therefore be damaged or lost in transit. In various embodiments, the label plate 135 described herein may include a pocket built into the shipping box 105 for containing the label. Such features and fixed positions create consistency in the label position.

[0073] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing liner 117 of the shipping box 105 forms a plurality of recessed air holes 137 to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container 103. In various embodiments, the shock absorbing layer also forms a plurality of slots 139 configured to reversibly secure a data logger or other item for shipping. Figure 6 As seen in FIG. 1 , the example slot 139 may include a cylindrical cutout that is made to accommodate rolled-up documents during transport. Figure 6 As seen in FIG. 1 , according to various embodiments, the shipping box 105 further includes at least one D-ring 141 for receiving a stacking strap to facilitate stacking of the shipping boxes.

[0074] like Figure 7 As seen in , according to various embodiments, the shipping box 105 may also include a removable bottom foam piece that can be used to install a cover data logger 143. According to various embodiments, the shipping box may also include a plurality of recessed vent holes 145 to facilitate removal of the cryogenic dewar 103.

[0075] like Figure 8 As seen in the , according to various embodiments, the shipping box 105 can be designed to be stackable with other similar shipping boxes 105 for ease of transportation and shipment. In various embodiments, such stackable applications can be accommodated by a combination of at least the following properties of the shipping box 105: the square / rectangular design of the shipping box 105, the flat lid 119 and the multiple ridge structures 133 on the lid 119 and their corresponding slots on the bottom of the adjacent shipping box 105 for receiving / matching the ridge structures 133. Previous liquid nitrogen shipping containers had rounded tops, making stacking impossible.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the present disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing embodiments are considered in all aspects to be illustrative rather than restrictive of the subject matter described herein.

Claims

1. A shipping box, comprising: A lined compartment, the lined compartment comprising: bottom; one or more walls extending from the base such that the base and the plurality of walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the base; and a shock absorbing liner disposed on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic shipping container; and a cover configured to reversibly engage the lined compartment such that when the cover is engaged with the lined compartment, the cover forms a seal over the lined compartment, The shock absorbing liner may have a thickness of up to 1.75 inches, a thickness between 1 inch and 1.75 inches, or a thickness of approximately 1 inch.

2. The shipping box of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of drawer latches, each of the plurality of drawer latches comprising a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the lid, and wherein the plurality of drawer latches are configured to reversibly couple the lid to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

3. The shipping case of claim 2, wherein the lined compartment further defines a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

4. The shipping box of claim 3, further comprising ridge structures in the cover, the ridge structures being disposed on the outer surface and the top surface of the cover, wherein the bottom further forms a slot disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the bottom, and Wherein the slot is configured to receive the ridge-like structure such that a pair of shipping containers can be stacked on top of each other such that a first container including the slot can be secured to a second shipping container including the ridge-like structure.

5. The shipping case of claim 4, wherein the bottom portion is configured to be reversibly coupled to a pallet to facilitate transport.

6. The shipping box of claim 5, further comprising a label panel attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

7. The shipping case of claim 6, wherein the shock absorbing liner forms a plurality of recessed air holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

8. The shipping case of claim 7, wherein the shock absorbing layer forms a slot configured to reversibly secure a data logger.

9. A cryogenic Dewar flask for transporting frozen materials, the cryogenic Dewar flask comprising: A heat-insulating shell, the heat-insulating shell comprising: a cavity for containing the frozen material; and a plurality of weight-bearing handles disposed on the upper and outer surfaces of the thermally insulated housing; and a cover configured to reversibly engage the insulated housing such that the cover forms a seal over the insulated housing when the cover is engaged with the insulated housing, wherein when the cover is engaged with the heat-insulating housing, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend at least flush with the cover in a vertical direction, and Wherein the cover is configured to reversibly accommodate a condition monitoring system.

10. The cryogenic container of claim 9, wherein the plurality of weighted handles extend vertically beyond the cover when the cover is engaged with the thermally insulated outer shell.

11. The cryogenic container of claim 10, further comprising a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to an interior surface of the cavity.

12. The cryogenic container of claim 11 , further comprising a vapor plug at least partially wrapped by a hydrophobic fleece located above the vapor plug such that the hydrophobic fleece is configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated enclosure of the cryogenic Dewar at a reduced rate.

13. A system for transporting frozen material, the system comprising: A cryogenic Dewar flask, the cryogenic Dewar flask being used to transport the frozen material and comprising: A heat-insulating shell, the heat-insulating shell comprising: a cavity for containing the frozen material; and a plurality of weight-bearing handles disposed on the upper and outer surfaces of the thermally insulated housing; and a dewar cover configured to reversibly engage the insulated shell such that the dewar cover forms a seal over the insulated shell when the dewar cover is engaged with the insulated shell, and a shipping box configured to contain the cryogenic Dewar vessel in use, the shipping box comprising: A lined compartment, the lined compartment comprising: bottom; one or more walls extending from the base such that the base and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the base; and a shock absorbing liner disposed on an inner surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic Dewar cover; and a cover configured to reversibly engage the lined compartment such that when the cover is engaged with the lined compartment, the cover forms a seal over the lined compartment, wherein when the Dewar flask cover is engaged with the heat-insulating shell, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend at least flush with the cover in a vertical direction, wherein the dewar cover is configured to reversibly accommodate a condition monitoring system, and The shock absorbing liner may have a thickness of up to 1.75 inches, a thickness between 1 inch and 1.75 inches, or a thickness of approximately 1 inch.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of weight-bearing handles extend vertically beyond the cover when the cover is engaged with the insulated enclosure.

15. The system of claim 14, further comprising a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to an interior surface of the cavity.

16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a vapor plug at least partially wrapped by a hydrophobic fleece located above the vapor plug such that the hydrophobic fleece is configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated enclosure of the cryogenic Dewar at a reduced rate.

17. The system of claim 16, further comprising a plurality of drawer latches, each of the plurality of drawer latches comprising a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the cover, and wherein the plurality of drawer latches are configured to reversibly couple the cover to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the lined compartment further defines a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the cover further comprises ridge structures disposed on the outer surface and the top surface of the cover, wherein the bottom further forms a slot disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the bottom, and Wherein the slot is configured to receive the ridge-like structure such that a pair of shipping containers can be stacked on top of each other such that a first container including the slot can be secured to a second shipping container including the ridge-like structure.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the base is configured to reversibly couple to a pallet to facilitate transport.

21. The system of claim 20, further comprising a label plate attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the shock absorbing liner forms a plurality of recessed air holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the shock absorbing layer forms a slot configured to reversibly secure a data logger.

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