Cooler for vehicle

Abstract

A cooler (1020, 1020 ', 1020 '', 1020''') includes a peripheral wall forming a chamber (1040, 1040 ', 1040 '', 1040'''), where the chamber (1040, 1040 ', 1040 '', 1040''') is configured to maintain a food product in a temperature controlled environment. The cooler (1020, 1020 ', 1020' ', 1020 ''') can be removably inserted or integrated into a trunk (1015), a front trunk or a front spare box (1010) or a side compartment of a vehicle (1000). The cooler (1020, 1020 ', 1020 '', 1020''') optionally includes a partition (1070) that re-divides the chamber (1040, 1040 ', 1040 '', 1040''') into a first sub-chamber (1050, 1050 ''') and a second sub-chamber (1060, 1060''') The cooler (1020, 1020 ', 1020 '', 1020''') optionally includes a cooling system (2000, 2000 ', 2000 '') that charges a phase change material (PCM) in a peripheral wall of the cooler (1020, 1020', 1020'', 1020 ''').

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS Any and all applications claiming foreign or domestic priority as indicated in the Application Data Sheet (ADS) filed with the present application are incorporated herein by reference pursuant to 37 CFR 1.57. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a cooler container, and more particularly to a cooler container for a vehicle (eg, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle). Background Art

[0003] Users often transport food (e.g., groceries, prepared foods) in their cars (e.g., from supermarkets). Some foods (e.g., dairy products, meat, poultry, fish) may be temperature sensitive and may spoil if exposed to higher temperatures during car transport. This may cause concern on hot days or when food is transported long distances (e.g., picnics, camping trips). Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a cooler for a vehicle is provided and may include a peripheral wall forming a chamber that may maintain food in a temperature-controlled environment.

[0005] According to another aspect, a vehicle is provided that may include a temperature controlled compartment integrated into a compartment of the vehicle. The temperature controlled compartment may include a peripheral wall and a lid, the peripheral wall may form a chamber capable of maintaining food in a temperature controlled environment, and the lid may be movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0006] According to another aspect, a vehicle is provided that may include a recess that can removably accommodate one or more coolers. Each of the one or more coolers may include a peripheral wall and a cover, the peripheral wall may form a chamber that can maintain food in a temperature-controlled environment, and the cover may be movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0007] According to another aspect, a cooling system for a temperature controlled compartment in a vehicle is provided, which may include a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a first flow line through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, and a second flow line through the second heat exchanger. A first coolant in the first flow line may cool air directed to a passenger compartment of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger. Heat from the second coolant in the second flow line may be transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger. The second fluid line may extend through a phase change material of the temperature controlled compartment so that the second coolant may be charged with the phase change material.

[0008] According to another aspect, a cooling system for a temperature controlled compartment in a vehicle is provided, the cooling system may include a conduit and a cooling fluid in the conduit. Portions of the conduit may extend through a peripheral wall of the temperature controlled compartment to fill the peripheral wall with a phase change material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cooler in a front trunk or frunk of a vehicle with the cooler's cover in a closed position.

[0010] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a cooler with the cover in the open position.

[0011] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a cooler for use in a vehicle, with the cover of the cooler in a closed position.

[0012] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a cooler of , wherein the cover of the cooler is in an open position.

[0013] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of a trunk of a vehicle having a cooler compartment with the lid of the compartment in a closed position.

[0014] Figure 5B for Figure 5A Schematic diagram of a trunk of a vehicle with a lid of the compartment in an open position, showing one or more (eg, two) coolers in the cooler compartment.

[0015] Figure 5C for Figure 5A Schematic diagram of a trunk of a vehicle with a lid of the compartment in an open position, showing one or more (e.g., two) coolers in a cooler compartment with a lid of one cooler in an open position.

[0016] Figure 5D is a schematic perspective view of a cooler for use in a vehicle with the cover or lid of the cooler in a closed position.

[0017] Figure 5E for Figure 5D A schematic perspective view of a cooler of FIG. 1 with a cover or lid of the cooler in an open position.

[0018] Fig. 6A is a schematic perspective view of a cooler for use in a vehicle with the cover or lid of the cooler in a closed position.

[0019] Figure 6B for Fig. 6AA schematic perspective view of a cooler of FIG. 1 with a cover or lid of the cooler in an open position.

[0020] Fig. 7A A schematic diagram of a cooling circuit of a cooler in a vehicle.

[0021] Figure 7B A schematic diagram of a cooling circuit of a cooler in a vehicle.

[0022] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a cooling circuit of a cooler used in a vehicle.

[0023] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a removable cooler that can be electrically coupled within a vehicle for operation thereof.

[0024] Fig.10 Schematic diagram of wireless communication between a mobile electronic device and a cooler used in a vehicle.

[0025] Fig.11 A schematic block diagram of the electronics of a cooler used in a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Figure 1-2 A portion of a vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle such as a passenger car, SUV, truck, van, etc.) is shown having a front trunk or front trunk 1010. The front trunk 1010 includes a temperature-controlled compartment 1020 (e.g., a cooler, a heating chamber, a cooler and a heating chamber). The temperature-controlled compartment 1020 can have a lid or cover 1030 that can be moved between an open position and a closed position relative to a chamber 1040, which can hold food (e.g., groceries, prepared foods) for storage and transportation (e.g., transportation from a take-out restaurant, a grocery store), and maintain the food in a temperature-controlled environment (e.g., in a cooled state, a heated state, a cooled and heated state) during use of the electric vehicle (e.g., when returning home from a take-out restaurant or a grocery store, on a camping trip or picnic, etc.). Although the temperature controlled compartment 1020 (eg, a cooler) is shown in the front trunk or luggage compartment 1010 , it may be located in a rear trunk of the vehicle 1000 or in a side compartment of the vehicle 1000 , as discussed further below.

[0027] The chamber 1040 can be further divided into a first chamber 1050 and a second chamber 1060 by a partition 1070. In one embodiment, the partition 1070 is adjustable within the chamber 1040 to change the relative sizes of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 (for example, if a larger first chamber 1050 is required, the partition 1070 is adjusted in the chamber 1040 to change the relative sizes of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060). Figure 2If a larger second chamber 1060 is required, the partition 1070 is moved to the right. Figure 2 In one embodiment, the divider 1070 moves (e.g., moves laterally) within the chamber 1040 without removing the divider 1070 from the chamber 1040. In one embodiment, the divider 1070 includes (e.g., accommodates, surrounds) one or more thermal energy modules (e.g., thermoelectric modules, Peltier elements), which can heat a surface of the divider 1070 facing one of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 while cooling an opposing surface of the divider 1070 facing the other of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060, which allows one of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 to be heated and the other of the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 to be cooled (e.g., cooled simultaneously). In another embodiment, the thermal energy module of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 can heat the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 (e.g., heating simultaneously), or can cool the first chamber 1050 and the second chamber 1060 (e.g., cooling simultaneously). In another embodiment, the thermal energy module (e.g., thermoelectric module, Peltier element) is excluded, and the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 operates only as a cooler in a manner further described below.

[0028] In one embodiment, the temperature controlled compartment 1020 (e.g., a cooler) may be integrated into the vehicle 1000 (e.g., integrated into the trunk 1010 of the vehicle 1000) and is not removable. For example, the walls of the trunk 1010 may include an insulating wall (e.g., a double-walled panel lining the trunk 1010) that includes (e.g., contains, surrounds) a phase change material (PCM). Alternatively, the walls of the trunk 1010 may include a vacuum insulated wall or panel lining the trunk 1010. In another embodiment, as Figure 3-4 As shown, the temperature-controlled compartment 1020' (eg, a cooler) may be a separate component that is removably mounted in a cavity or recess in the front trunk 1010 of the vehicle 1000 (or in the rear trunk, or in a side chamber of the vehicle 1000). The temperature-controlled compartment 1020' is similar to Figure 1-2 Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the temperature controlled compartment 1020' are the same as those of the temperature controlled compartment 1020', except that a "'" is added to the numerical identifiers. Figure 1-2 The reference numerals used to identify corresponding components of the temperature control compartment 1020 are the same. Therefore, except as described below, Figure 1-2 The description of the structure of the various features of the temperature control compartment 1020 and how to operate and control it is understood to apply equally to Figure 3-4 The corresponding features of the temperature controlled compartment 1020'.

[0029] The temperature controlled compartment 1020' differs from the temperature controlled compartment 1020 in that it can be removably mounted in the front trunk 1010 (or rear trunk or side compartment) of the vehicle 1000. Additionally, the lid or cover 1030' has a handle 1035' for making the opening and closing of the lid or cover 1030' easier. Optionally, the lid or cover 1030' can be insulated (e.g., made of an insulating material such as foam plastic, or includes a double wall structure, such as a double wall vacuum insulation structure). The temperature controlled compartment 1020' has a peripheral wall 1025', which can include one or more insulating walls (e.g., double wall panels) that include PCM. The peripheral wall 1025' can optionally include a vacuum insulated wall or panel. The temperature controlled compartment 1020' (e.g., a cooler) has an onboard or integrated temperature control unit, as described further below.

[0030] Figures 5A-5C A rear trunk 1015 of the vehicle 1000 is shown having a recessed compartment C and a cover 1017 operable between an open position (for accessing the compartment C) and a closed position (for closing the compartment C). The compartment C may house (e.g., removably house) one or more (e.g., two) temperature-controlled compartments 1020″ (e.g., coolers) adjacent to each other, each of which is capable of housing food and maintaining the food in a temperature-controlled environment (e.g., heated state, cooled state). In another embodiment, the compartment C and the temperature-controlled compartment 1020″ may be located in a front trunk or front trundle of the vehicle 1000. In another embodiment, the compartment C and the temperature-controlled compartment 1020″ may be located in a side compartment of the vehicle 1000.

[0031] Figure 5D-5E A temperature controlled compartment 1020'' is shown. The temperature controlled compartment 1020'' is similar to Figure 3-4 Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the temperature controlled compartment 1020' are the same as those in the example above, except that a '' is added to the numerical identifiers. Figure 3-4 The reference numerals used to identify corresponding components of the temperature controlled compartment 1020' are the same. Therefore, except as described below, Figure 3-4 The description of the structure of the various features of the temperature control compartment 1020' and how to operate and control it is understood to apply equally to Figure 5D-5E The corresponding features of the temperature controlled compartment 1020''.

[0032] The temperature controlled compartment 1020" differs from the temperature controlled compartment 1020' in that the chamber 1040 is a single chamber (eg, without separate first and second chambers). In addition, the temperature controlled compartment 1020" has a cubic shape and has a handle 1035" on the peripheral wall 1025".

[0033] Figure 6A-6B A temperature controlled compartment 1020''' is shown. The temperature controlled compartment 1020''' is similar to Figure 3-4 Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the temperature controlled compartment 1020''' are the same as those in the figure except that a "''" is added to the numerical identifier. Figure 3-4 The reference numerals used to identify corresponding components of the temperature controlled compartment 1020' are the same. Therefore, except as described below, Figure 3-4 The description of the structure of the various features of the temperature control compartment 1020' and how to operate and control it is understood to apply equally to Figure 6A-6B The corresponding features of the temperature controlled compartment 1020'''.

[0034] The temperature controlled compartment 1020''' differs from the temperature controlled compartment 1020' in that it has a rectangular shape, has a handle 1035'' on the peripheral wall 1025'', and the dimensions of the first chamber 1050''' and the second chamber 1060''' have uniform width and length. In one embodiment, the dimensions of the temperature controlled compartment 1020''' can be the same as Figure 5D-5E The two temperature-controlled compartments 1020 ″ in the vehicle 1000 are of the same size, so that the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 ′″ (eg, a cooler) may be used to replace the two temperature-controlled compartments 1020 ″ in the compartment C of the trunk 1015 (or front trunk or side compartment) of the vehicle 1000 .

[0035] Fig. 7A An embodiment of a cooling system 2000 for filling PCM in a temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'' is shown (e.g., cooling the PCM to / including solidifying or freezing the PCM so that the PCM can absorb heat compared to the surrounding environment to cool the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020''). Once the PCM is filled, it can maintain the chamber 1040 (e.g., the first chamber 1050 and / or the second chamber 1060) in a cooled state (e.g., at a temperature of about 5°C) for a period of time, such as up to 2 hours, up to 4 hours, up to 6 hours, up to 8 hours, etc.

[0036] The system 2000 may include an air conditioning (AC) unit 2010 of the vehicle 1000 for cooling a passenger cabin, and includes a first heat exchanger 2020 through which a coolant (e.g., a refrigerant such as FREON®) flows through a first flow line 2030 (e.g., a duct, a pipe), and the heat exchanger 2020 cools air and then guides the air to the passenger cabin. The system also includes a second heat exchanger 2040 through which the first flow line passes, and a second flow line 2050 through which a coolant (e.g., ethylene glycol, water) passes, so that heat is transferred from the coolant flowing through the second flow line 2050 to the coolant flowing through the first flow line 2030 to cool the coolant flowing through the second flow line 2050. The first heat exchanger 2020 and the first flow line 2030 may operate in a pressurized state (e.g., above atmospheric pressure), and the second heat exchanger 2040 and the second flow line 2050 may operate in a non-pressurized state (e.g., operating at atmospheric pressure).

[0037] In an embodiment where the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 (e.g., a cooler) is integrated into the front trunk 1010 or the rear trunk 1015 (e.g., such that the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 cannot be removed from the front trunk 1010 or the rear trunk 1015), the second flow line 2050 extends into the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 and passes through the PCM in the temperature-controlled compartment 1020 (e.g., adjacent to, surrounded by, thermally connected to, or in contact with the PCM), such that the coolant flowing through the second flow line 2050 in the PCM fills the PCM (e.g., cools the PCM to / includes solidifying or freezing the PCM so that the PCM can absorb heat compared to the surrounding environment to cool the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020). Once the PCM is charged, it can maintain chamber 1040 (e.g., first chamber 1050 and / or second chamber 1060) in a cool state (e.g., at a temperature of about 5°C) for a period of time, such as up to 2 hours, up to 4 hours, up to 6 hours, up to 8 hours, etc.

[0038] In embodiments where the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020''' (e.g., a cooler) is removable from the front trunk 1010 or the rear trunk 1015, the second flow line 2050 may be coupled to the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020''' via a connector 2060 (e.g., a quick disconnect connector) to enable fluid communication between the second flow line 2050 and one or more conduits in the temperature-controlled compartment, the one or more conduits extending through The PCM in the temperature controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" (adjacent to, surrounded by, in thermal communication with, or in contact with the PCM) is filled with the coolant flowing through the second flow line 2050 and the one or more conduits described above (e.g., cooling the PCM to (including) solidifying or freezing the PCM so that the PCM can absorb heat compared to the surrounding environment to cool the chamber 1040 of the temperature controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'"). Once the PCM is filled, it can maintain the chamber 1040 (e.g., the first chamber 1050 and / or the second chamber 1060) in a cooled state (e.g., at a temperature of about 5°C) for a period of time, such as up to 2 hours, up to 4 hours, up to 6 hours, up to 8 hours, etc.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cooling system 2000 (e.g., AC unit 2010) operates to charge the PCM only when the vehicle 1000 (e.g., electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle) is connected to a power source (e.g., grid) to charge the battery of the vehicle 1000. Once the vehicle 1000 is disconnected from the power source, the cooling system 2000 ceases to operate, and thereafter the PCM maintains the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020''' in a cool state (e.g., by absorbing heat that causes the PCM to transform (e.g., from solid to liquid) to maintain the chamber 1040 in a cool state).

[0040] Figure 7B A cooling system 2000' is shown for filling the PCM in the temperature controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'''. The cooling system 2000' is similar to Fig. 7A Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of cooling system 2000' are the same as those of FIG. 1 except that a "'" is added to the numerical identifiers. Fig. 7A The same reference numerals are used to identify corresponding components of cooling system 2000. Therefore, except as described below, Fig. 7A The description of the structure of the various features of the cooling system 2000 and how to operate and control it is understood to apply equally to Figure 7BThe corresponding features of the cooling system 2000' in FIG.

[0041] The cooling system 2000' differs from the cooling system 2000 in that the system 2000' is not operated using the AC unit of the passenger cabin, but rather is operated using the battery cooling unit 2010', which operates to cool the battery of the vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle). In one embodiment, the cooling system 2000' (e.g., the battery cooling unit 2010') operates to charge the PCM only when the vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle) is connected to a power source (e.g., a power grid) to charge the battery of the vehicle 1000. Once the vehicle 1000 is disconnected from the power source, the cooling system 2000' ceases to operate, and thereafter the PCM maintains the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'" in a cool state (e.g., by absorbing heat that causes the PCM to transform (e.g., from a solid to a liquid) to maintain the chamber 1040 in a cool state).

[0042] In another embodiment, the cooling system for charging the PCM in the temperature-controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020''' is an independent system in the vehicle 1000 that does not use the AC unit 2010 or the battery cooling unit 2010' and operates to charge the PCM in the temperature-controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'''. In one embodiment, the cooling system operates to charge the PCM only when the vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle) is connected to a power source (e.g., a grid) to charge the battery of the vehicle 1000. Once the vehicle 1000 is disconnected from the power source, the cooling system ceases to operate, and the PCM thereafter maintains the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'' in a cool state (e.g., by absorbing heat that causes the PCM to transform (e.g., from solid to liquid) to maintain the chamber 1040 in a cool state).

[0043] Figure 8A cooling system 2000'' is shown for filling the PCM in the temperature-controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020''. The cooling system 2000'' is optionally a closed-loop system that can be incorporated into (e.g., contained within, surrounded by) the temperature-controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020'', 1020''. The cooling system 2000'' optionally includes a conduit 140'' through which a cooling fluid (e.g., a cooling liquid such as water, ethylene glycol) flows. In some embodiments, the cooling fluid can be water. In some embodiments, the cooling fluid can be a water mixture (e.g., a water-ethanol mixture, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, etc.). The cooling system 2000'' may optionally include one or more of a first heat sink 210'' (e.g., a solid to liquid heat exchanger), a thermoelectric module or thermoelectric cooler (TEC) 220'', a second heat sink 230'', a fan 280'', a pump 146'', and a reservoir 148''. The conduit 140'' may include a first conduit portion 140A'' extending between the first heat sink 210'' and one or more walls 130'' of the container 100'' of the temperature controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020'', 1020'''. The conduit 140'' also includes a second conduit portion 140B'' extending through the wall 130'' of the container 100'' and in fluid communication with the first conduit portion 140A''. The reservoir 148'' is in fluid communication with an opposite end of the second conduit portion 140B''. The conduit 140" further includes a third conduit portion 140C" extending between the reservoir 148" and the pump 146". The conduit 140" further includes a fourth conduit portion 140D" extending between the pump 146" and the first radiator 210".

[0044] In operation, the TEC 220" operates to remove heat from the first heat sink 210" (e.g., the conduit portion through which the cooling fluid passes) and transfers the above heat to the second heat sink 230". The fan 280" optionally operates to dissipate heat from the second heat sink 230", thereby allowing the TEC 220" to remove additional heat from the first heat sink 210" (e.g., cool the first heat sink 210". Optionally, the first heat sink 210" (e.g., a solid-to-liquid heat exchanger) can at least partially define one or more flow paths (e.g., located in the body of the first heat sink 210") that are in fluid communication with the first conduit portion 140A" and the fourth conduit portion 140D". The pump 146" may be selectively operated (e.g., by a controller of the cooling system 2000" or the temperature controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'") to cause a cooling fluid (e.g., a liquid) to flow through the conduit 140" and past or through the first heat sink 210", where the cooling fluid is cooled. The cooled cooling fluid is then directed through the first conduit portion 140A", and into the wall 130" via the second conduit portion 140B", where the cooling fluid removes heat from the PCM 135" (disposed in the wall 130"), thereby charging the PCM 135" (e.g., placing the PCM 135" in a state where it can absorb energy). The fluid then exits the wall 130" of the container 100" and flows into the reservoir 148". The fluid flows from the reservoir 148 ″ via the third conduit portion 140C″ to the pump 146 ″, where the pump 146 ″ again pumps the liquid over or through the first radiator 210 ″ via the fourth conduit portion 140D″.

[0045] Advantageously, the cooling fluid (e.g., liquid) quickly cools the PCM 135" in the wall 130" to charge the PCM 135". Optionally, the second conduit portion 140B" in the wall 130" extends through the wall 130" in a coil-like manner (e.g., in a spiral manner) to increase the surface area of ​​the second conduit portion 140B" in contact with the PCM 135", thereby increasing the amount of heat transfer between the cooling fluid and the PCM 135'. In another embodiment, the second conduit portion 140B" may include a plurality of fins extending outward from the second conduit portion 140B" into the PCM 135" to increase the heat transfer area with the PCM 135". This configuration of the second conduit portion 140B" advantageously results in faster cooling / charging of the PCM 135". In one example, the chamber (e.g., 1040) of the temperature-controlled compartments 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'" can be cooled to about 5 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the reservoir 148" can have a valve (e.g., a drain valve) through which the cooling fluid can be drained from the cooling system 2000", or through which the cooling fluid can be introduced into the cooling system 2000". The cooling system 2000" (e.g., the fan 280", the pump 146", the TEC 220") can be powered by a power source such as one or more batteries of the vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle), as discussed further below.

[0046] Fig. 9A schematic diagram of a temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" (e.g., a cooler) having an electrical contact EC is shown, via which a cooling system 2000" therein is powered. The electrical contact EC may be located on an outer surface (e.g., a side surface, a rear surface, a bottom surface) of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" (e.g., a cooler). The electrical contact EC may contact a corresponding electrical contact EC' in a compartment C (e.g., in the front trunk 1010 or the rear luggage compartment 1015) of the vehicle 1000, which removably accommodates the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" (e.g., a cooler). The electrical contacts EC' may be connected to electronics in the vehicle 1000 and / or one or more batteries of the vehicle 1000 that power a cooling system 2000'' of the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020''' (e.g., a chiller). In one embodiment, the cooling system 2000'' operates to charge the PCM only when the vehicle 1000 (e.g., an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle) is connected to a power source (e.g., a power grid, a household power source) to charge the battery of the vehicle 1000. Once the vehicle 1000 is disconnected from the power source, the cooling system 2000'' ceases to operate, and thereafter the PCM maintains the chamber 1040 of the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020''' in a cool state (e.g., by absorbing heat that causes the PCM to transform (e.g., from a solid to a liquid) to maintain the chamber 1040 in a cool state).

[0047] In one embodiment, data (e.g., sensed temperature from one or more sensors S1-Sn in chambers 1040, 1050, 1060) and power are transmitted via electrical contacts EC, EC'. In one embodiment, one or more magnets are arranged near (e.g., adjacent to, surrounding) one or more electrical contacts EC, EC' to facilitate alignment and connection between electrical contacts EC, EC'.

[0048] Fig.10Wireless communication W between the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020'" and a remote electronic device ED (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop) is shown. The remote electronic device ED may have a user interface UI1 via which the operation of the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020'" may be controlled. For example, if the user does not want the PCM of the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020'" to be filled (because the user does not need to keep the temperature-controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020'" in a temperature-controlled state (e.g., because the user is not going grocery shopping)), then the user may shut down the operation of the cooling system 2000, 2000', 2000" via the user interface UI1 even when the vehicle 1000 is connected to a power source (e.g., a power grid). Additionally or alternatively, the operation of the cooling system 2000, 2000', 2000" may also be controlled via a user interface (e.g., on the dashboard) in the vehicle 1000. For example, if the user does not want the PCM of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" to be filled (because the user does not need to keep the temperature-controlled compartment 1020', 1020", 1020'" in a temperature-controlled state (e.g., because the user is not going grocery shopping)), then the user may turn off the operation of the cooling system 2000, 2000', 2000" via the user interface UI 2 even when the vehicle 1000 is connected to a power source (e.g., the grid). The sensed temperature from one or more sensors S1-Sn in the temperature controlled compartments 1020', 1020", 1020'" may also be transmitted to the user interfaces UI 1 and / or UI 2 to indicate to the user the temperature of the chambers 1040, 1050, 1060 or to indicate the filling level of the PCM (e.g., indicating how long the chambers 1040, 1050, 1060 may remain in a cooled state before the PCM needs to be refilled).

[0049] Fig.11 A block diagram of a control system for (e.g., incorporating) an apparatus described herein (e.g., a temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'') is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit EM (e.g., a control circuit, a microcontroller unit MCU, a computer processor, etc.) can receive sensing information from one or more sensors S1-Sn (e.g., a volume sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor).

[0050] In one embodiment, at least one of the sensors S1-Sn is located in or on a wall of a chamber 1040, 1040', 1040", 1040'' of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'' to sense the temperature in the chamber 1040, 1040', 1040", 1040'' and transmit it to the circuit EM. In another embodiment, additionally or alternatively, at least one of the sensors S1-Sn is a temperature sensor and is exposed to the outside of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'' (e.g., on an outer surface of a lid or cover 1030, 1030', 1030", 1030'') to measure the ambient temperature and transmit it to the circuit EM.

[0051] In one embodiment, one or more of the sensors S1-Sn may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may optionally sense ambient pressure, which may indicate the altitude of the temperature-controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'' (e.g., in the case where the user is driving in a mountainous area or a high-altitude city). Optionally, the pressure sensor transmits the sensed pressure information to the circuit EM, which may optionally record or log data from the pressure sensor and / or may operate one or more components of the cooling system, such as the cooling system 2000" (e.g., the TEC 220" and the fan 280" operate at least in part based on the pressure information sensed from the pressure sensor).

[0052] In one embodiment, the circuit EM may be housed in the temperature controlled compartment 1020, 1020', 1020", 1020'". The circuit EM may receive information from and / or transmit information (e.g., instructions) to one or more heating or cooling elements HC such as TEC 220" (e.g., TEC 220') (e.g., operate in a heating mode and / or in a cooling mode, shut down, turn on, change its power output, etc.).

[0053] Optionally, the circuit EM may include a wireless transmitter, receiver and / or transceiver to communicate with (e.g., transmit information such as sensed temperature and pressure data to, and receive information such as user instructions from) one or more of the following: a) a user interface UI 1 on the vehicle 1000 (e.g., on the dashboard of the vehicle 1000 ), b) a user interface UIC of a remote electronic device ED (e.g., a mobile electronic device such as a smartphone, PDA, tablet, laptop, electronic watch, remote server, cloud server), c) via a cloud CL, or d) via a wireless communication system such as WiFi, broadband network and / or Bluetooth BT. For example, the circuit EM may have a cellular radio antenna or a cellular radio via which it can wirelessly transmit information (e.g., sensed temperature in the chamber 1040 , 1040 ′, 1040 ″, 1040 ′″, ambient temperature, etc.) (e.g., to the cloud CL, to a remote electronic device such as a smartphone, etc.).

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, the circuit EM may report (e.g., wirelessly) data sensed by one or more of the sensors S1-Sn to a user interface UI2 of a remote electronic device ED or to a cloud CL (e.g., sensed ambient temperature, sensed temperature in chambers 1040, 1040', 1040", 1040''', sensed pressure, sensed humidity outside chambers 1040, 1040', 1040", 1040''', sensed humidity inside chambers 1040, 1040', 1040", 1040''').

[0055] Additional Embodiments In an embodiment of the present invention, a cooler for a vehicle may comply with any one of the following clauses: Clause 1. A cooler for a vehicle, the cooler comprising: a peripheral wall forming a chamber, wherein the chamber is configured to maintain a food product in a temperature controlled environment.

[0056] Clause 2. A cooler according to any preceding clause, wherein the peripheral wall is thermally insulated.

[0057] Clause 3. A cooler according to any preceding clause, wherein the peripheral wall is vacuum insulated.

[0058] Clause 4. The cooler according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a partition located in the chamber, the partition subdividing the chamber into a first subchamber and a second subchamber, wherein the partition comprises a first surface facing the first subchamber and a second surface facing the second subchamber.

[0059] Clause 5. The cooler of clause 4, wherein the partition comprises one or more thermal modules.

[0060] Clause 6. The cooler of clause 5, wherein the one or more thermal modules heat the first surface of the partition.

[0061] Clause 7. A cooler according to any of clauses 5 to 6, wherein the one or more thermal modules cool the first surface of the partition.

[0062] Clause 8. The cooler of any of clauses 5 to 7, wherein the one or more thermal modules heat the second surface of the partition.

[0063] Clause 9. A cooler according to any one of clauses 5 to 8, wherein the one or more thermal modules cool a second surface of the partition, wherein the second surface faces the second sub-chamber.

[0064] Clause 10. A cooler according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a cover movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0065] Clause 11. The cooler of clause 10, wherein the cover is thermally insulated.

[0066] Clause 12. A cooler according to any one of clauses 10 to 11, wherein the cover is vacuum insulated.

[0067] Clause 13. A cooler according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the cooler is integrated into a vehicle.

[0068] Clause 14. A cooler according to any preceding clause, wherein the cooler is integrated into a front luggage compartment of a vehicle.

[0069] Clause 15. The cooler of clause 14, wherein the wall of the front trunk forms the peripheral wall.

[0070] Clause 16. A cooler according to any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the cooler is integrated into a trunk of a vehicle.

[0071] Clause 17. The cooler of clause 16, wherein the wall of the trunk forms the peripheral wall.

[0072] Clause 18. A cooler according to any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the cooler is integrated into a side compartment of the vehicle.

[0073] Clause 19. A cooler according to clause 18, wherein the wall of the side compartment forms a peripheral wall.

[0074] Clause 20. A cooler according to any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the cooler is removably insertable into a recess of a vehicle.

[0075] Clause 21. The cooler of clause 20, wherein the recess is located in a front trunk of the vehicle.

[0076] Clause 22. The cooler of clause 20, wherein the recess is located in a trunk of the vehicle.

[0077] Clause 23. The cooler of clause 20, wherein the recess is located in a side compartment of the vehicle.

[0078] Clause 24. A cooler according to any one of clauses 20 to 23, wherein the cover comprises a handle.

[0079] Clause 25. A cooler according to any preceding clause, wherein the peripheral wall comprises a phase change material.

[0080] Clause 26. The cooler of clause 25, wherein the phase change material is configured to maintain the chamber in a cooled state.

[0081] Clause 27. A cooler according to any one of clauses 4 to 24, wherein a portion of the peripheral wall forming the first sub-chamber comprises a phase change material.

[0082] Clause 28. The cooler of clause 27, wherein the phase change material is configured to maintain the first subchamber in a cooled state.

[0083] Clause 29. A cooler according to any one of clauses 4 to 24 and 27 to 28, wherein the portion forming the peripheral wall of the second sub-chamber comprises a phase change material.

[0084] Clause 30. The cooler of clause 29, wherein the phase change material is configured to maintain the second subchamber in a cooled state.

[0085] Clause 31. A cooler according to any one of clauses 25 to 30, wherein the phase change material is charged with the cooling system.

[0086] Clause 32. The cooler of clause 31, wherein the cooler includes electrical contacts for supplying power to the cooling system.

[0087] Clause 33. A cooler according to any one of clauses 31 to 32, wherein the cooling system comprises an air conditioning (AC) unit of a vehicle.

[0088] Clause 34. A cooler according to any one of clauses 31 to 33, wherein the cooling system comprises a battery cooling unit of a vehicle.

[0089] Clause 35. A cooler according to any one of clauses 31 to 34, wherein the cooling system comprises: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow circuit that passes through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow circuit that passes through the second heat exchanger, wherein the first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air that is directed to a passenger cabin of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, and wherein heat from the second coolant in the second flow circuit is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger.

[0090] Clause 36. The cooler of clause 35, wherein the second flow path extends through the phase change material so that the second coolant fills the phase change material.

[0091] Clause 37. The cooler of clause 36, wherein the second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0092] Clause 38. A cooler according to any one of clauses 31 to 34, wherein the cooling system comprises a conduit and a cooling fluid in the conduit.

[0093] Clause 39. The cooler of clause 38, wherein the cooling fluid comprises a mixture of water and ethanol.

[0094] Clause 40. A cooler according to any one of clauses 38 to 39, wherein part of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall.

[0095] Clause 41. A cooler according to clause 40, wherein the portion of the conduit extends across the periphery in a coil-like manner.

[0096] Clause 42. A cooler according to any one of clauses 40 to 41, wherein the portion of the conduit comprises a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the conduit.

[0097] Clause 43. A cooler according to any one of clauses 38 to 42, wherein the cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0098] Clause 44. The cooler of any one of clauses 38 to 43, wherein the cooling system further comprises a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

[0099] Clause 45. The cooler of clause 44, wherein the first heat sink comprises a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

[0100] Clause 46. A cooler according to any one of clauses 44 to 45, wherein the cooling system further comprises a thermoelectric module.

[0101] Clause 47. The cooler of clause 46, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

[0102] Clause 48. A cooler according to any one of clauses 46 to 47, wherein the cooling system further comprises a second radiator.

[0103] Clause 49. The cooler of clause 48, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

[0104] Clause 50. A cooler according to any one of clauses 48 to 49, wherein the cooling system further comprises a fan.

[0105] Clause 51. The cooler of clause 50, wherein the fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second heat sink.

[0106] Clause 52. A cooler according to any one of clauses 38 to 51, wherein the cooling system further comprises a reservoir.

[0107] Clause 53. The cooler of clause 52, wherein the reservoir comprises a valve configured to exhaust cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

[0108] Clause 54. The cooler of any of clauses 38 to 53, wherein the cooling system further comprises a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

[0109] Clause 55. A cooler according to any one of clauses 31 to 54, wherein the cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

[0110] Clause 56. A cooler according to any preceding clause, wherein the cooler comprises one or more temperature sensors.

[0111] Clause 57. A cooler according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cooler is configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote electronic device.

[0112] Clause 58. The cooler of clause 57, wherein the remote electronic device controls one or more functions of the cooler.

[0113] Clause 59. A vehicle comprising: a temperature controlled compartment integrated into a compartment of the vehicle, the temperature controlled compartment comprising: a peripheral wall forming a chamber configured to maintain food in a temperature controlled environment; and a lid movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0114] Clause 60. A vehicle according to clause 59, wherein the compartment of the vehicle comprises a front luggage compartment, a rear trunk or a side compartment.

[0115] Clause 61. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 59 to 60, wherein one or more walls of the vehicle form a peripheral wall.

[0116] Clause 62. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 59 to 61, wherein the peripheral wall is thermally insulated.

[0117] Clause 63. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 59 to 62, wherein the peripheral wall is vacuum insulated.

[0118] Clause 64. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 59 to 63, wherein the peripheral wall comprises a phase change material, the phase change material being configured to maintain the chamber in a cooled state.

[0119] Clause 65. The vehicle of clause 64, further comprising a cooling system, the cooling system being configured to be filled with a phase change material.

[0120] Clause 66. The vehicle of clause 65, wherein the cooling system comprises an air conditioning (AC) unit of the vehicle.

[0121] Clause 67. A vehicle according to clause 65, wherein the cooling system comprises a battery cooling unit of the vehicle.

[0122] Clause 68. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 65 to 67, wherein the cooling system comprises: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow circuit that passes through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow circuit that passes through the second heat exchanger, wherein the first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air that is directed to a passenger cabin of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, and wherein heat from the second coolant in the second flow circuit is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger.

[0123] Clause 69. The vehicle of clause 68, wherein the second flow path extends through the phase change material so that the second coolant fills the phase change material.

[0124] Clause 70. The vehicle of clause 69, wherein the second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0125] Clause 71. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 65 to 67, wherein the cooling system comprises a conduit and a cooling fluid in the conduit.

[0126] Clause 72. The vehicle of clause 71, wherein the cooling fluid comprises a mixture of water and ethanol.

[0127] Clause 73. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 71 to 72, wherein part of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall.

[0128] Clause 74. A vehicle according to clause 73, wherein the portion of the conduit extends across the periphery in a coil-like manner.

[0129] Clause 75. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 73 to 74, wherein the portion of the duct comprises a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the duct.

[0130] Clause 76. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 71 to 75, wherein a cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0131] Clause 77. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 71 to 76, wherein the cooling system further comprises a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

[0132] Clause 78. The vehicle of clause 77, wherein the first radiator includes a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

[0133] Clause 79. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 77 to 78, wherein the cooling system further comprises a thermoelectric module.

[0134] Clause 80. The vehicle of clause 79, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

[0135] Clause 81. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 79 to 80, wherein the cooling system further comprises a second radiator.

[0136] Clause 82. The vehicle of clause 81, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

[0137] Clause 83. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 81 to 82, wherein the cooling system further comprises a fan.

[0138] Clause 84. The vehicle of clause 83, wherein the fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second radiator.

[0139] Clause 85. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 71 to 84, wherein the cooling system further comprises a reservoir.

[0140] Clause 86. The vehicle of clause 85, wherein the reservoir comprises a valve configured to drain cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or to introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

[0141] Clause 87. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 71 to 86, wherein the cooling system further comprises a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

[0142] Clause 88. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 65 to 87, wherein the cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

[0143] Clause 89. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 59 to 87, wherein the temperature-controlled compartment further comprises a partition located in the chamber, the partition further dividing the chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber, wherein the partition comprises a first surface facing the first sub-chamber and a second surface facing the second sub-chamber.

[0144] Clause 90. The vehicle of clause 89, wherein the partition comprises one or more thermal modules.

[0145] Clause 91. The vehicle of clause 90, wherein the one or more thermal modules heat the first surface of the partition.

[0146] Clause 92. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 90 to 91, wherein the one or more thermal modules cool the first surface of the partition.

[0147] Clause 93. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 90 to 92, wherein the one or more thermal modules heat the second surface of the partition.

[0148] Clause 94. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 90 to 93, wherein the one or more thermal modules cool a second surface of the partition, wherein the second surface faces the second sub-chamber.

[0149] Clause 95. A vehicle comprising: a recess configured to removably receive one or more coolers, each of the one or more coolers comprising: a peripheral wall forming a chamber configured to maintain food in a temperature controlled environment; and a lid movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0150] Clause 96. A vehicle according to clause 95, wherein the recess is located in the front luggage compartment, the trunk or the side compartment.

[0151] Clause 97. A vehicle according to any one of clauses 95 to 96, wherein one or more coolers include a phase change material in the peripheral wall.

[0152] Clause 98. The vehicle of clause 97, wherein the one or more coolers include a cooling system configured to be filled with a phase change material.

[0153] Clause 99. The vehicle of clause 98, wherein the recess includes electrical contacts and the one or more coolers include electrical contacts, wherein the connection between the electrical contacts of the recess and the electrical contacts of the one or more coolers is configured to transfer power from the vehicle to the cooling system.

[0154] Clause 100. A cooling system for a temperature controlled compartment in a vehicle, the cooling system comprising: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow circuit that passes through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow circuit that passes through the second heat exchanger, wherein a first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air that is directed to a passenger compartment of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, wherein heat from the second coolant in the second flow circuit is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger, and wherein the second flow circuit extends through a phase change material of the temperature controlled compartment so that the second coolant charges the phase change material.

[0155] Clause 101. The cooling system of clause 100, wherein the second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0156] Clause 102. A cooling system according to any one of clauses 100 to 101, wherein the cooling system comprises an air conditioning (AC) unit of the vehicle.

[0157] Clause 103. A cooling system according to any one of clauses 100 to 101, wherein the cooling system comprises a battery cooling unit of the vehicle.

[0158] Clause 104. A cooling system according to any of clauses 100 to 103, wherein the cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

[0159] Clause 105. A cooling system for a temperature controlled compartment in a vehicle, the cooling system comprising: a conduit; and a cooling fluid in the conduit, wherein a portion of the conduit extends through a peripheral wall of the temperature controlled compartment to fill the peripheral wall with a phase change material.

[0160] Clause 106. The cooling system of clause 105, wherein the portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall in a coil-like manner.

[0161] Clause 107. The cooling system of any of clauses 105 to 106, wherein the portion of the conduit includes a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the conduit.

[0162] Clause 108. The cooling system of any of clauses 105 to 107, wherein the cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

[0163] Clause 109. The cooling system of any of clauses 105 to 108, wherein the cooling system further comprises a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

[0164] Clause 110. The cooling system of clause 109, wherein the first heat sink comprises a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

[0165] Clause 111. The cooling system of any of clauses 109 to 110, wherein the cooling system further comprises a thermoelectric module.

[0166] Clause 112. The cooling system of clause 111, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

[0167] Clause 113. A cooling system according to any one of clauses 111 to 112, wherein the cooling system further comprises a second radiator.

[0168] Clause 114. The cooling system of clause 113, wherein the thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

[0169] Clause 115. A cooling system according to any one of clauses 113 to 114, wherein the cooling system further comprises a fan.

[0170] Clause 116. The cooling system of clause 115, wherein the fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second heat sink.

[0171] Clause 117. A cooling system according to any one of clauses 105 to 116, wherein the cooling system further comprises a reservoir.

[0172] Clause 118. The cooling system of clause 117, wherein the reservoir comprises a valve configured to exhaust cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

[0173] Clause 119. The cooling system of any of clauses 105 to 118, wherein the cooling system further comprises a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

[0174] Clause 120. A cooling system according to any of clauses 105 to 119, wherein the cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

[0175] Although certain embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in various other forms. In addition, various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made to the systems and methods described herein without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The attached claims and their equivalents are intended to cover forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is limited only by reference to the attached claims.

[0176] Features, materials, characteristics or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive combinations. Protection is not limited to the details of any foregoing embodiments. Protection extends to any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or any novel one or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0177] In addition, certain features described in the present disclosure in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments alone or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, in some cases, one or more features in the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0178] In addition, although the operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in a particular order in the specification, these operations do not need to be performed in the particular order shown or in a continuous order, nor do they need to perform all operations to achieve the desired results. Other operations that are not depicted or described may be incorporated into the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. In addition, operations may be rearranged or reordered in other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the described and / or disclosed processes may be different from those shown in the drawings. Depending on the embodiment, some of the steps described above may be removed, and other steps may be added. In addition, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments described above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the separation of the various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the components and systems described may generally be integrated into a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0179] For purposes of the present disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not all of these advantages may be achieved according to any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, one skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure may be embodied or implemented in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages taught or suggested herein.

[0180] Conditional language such as "can," "might," "might," or "may" is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps, unless specifically stated otherwise or understood otherwise in the context of use. Thus, such conditional language generally does not imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments, nor does it imply that one or more embodiments must include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether to include or perform such features, elements, or steps in any particular embodiment.

[0181] Unless specifically stated otherwise, linking language, such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," is generally understood in conjunction with the context and is generally used to convey that an item, term, etc. may be X, Y, or Z. Thus, such linking language generally does not imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0182] As used herein, language of degree (such as the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and "substantially" as used herein) refers to a value, amount, or feature that is close to a specified value, amount, or feature but still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, and within 0.01% of a specified amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms "substantially parallel" and "substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or feature that deviates from perfect parallelism by less than or equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, or 0.1 degrees.

[0183] The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosure of preferred embodiments in this section or elsewhere in this specification, and may be limited by the claims presented in this section or elsewhere in this specification, or presented in the future. The language of the claims should be interpreted broadly based on the language used in the claims and not limited to the examples described in this specification or examples described during the prosecution of the application, which examples should be interpreted as non-exclusive.

[0184] Of course, the above description is a description of certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, and various changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the device described herein need not have all the objects, advantages, features and aspects discussed above. Therefore, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention can be embodied or implemented in a manner that realizes or optimizes an advantage or a group of advantages taught herein, without necessarily realizing other purposes or advantages taught or suggested herein. In addition, although many variations of the present invention have been shown and described in detail, those skilled in the art will readily understand other modifications and methods of use within the scope of the present invention based on the present disclosure. It is conceivable that various combinations or sub-combinations may be made to these specific features and aspects of the embodiments, and these combinations or sub-combinations still fall within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined or replaced with each other to form different modes of the device discussed.

Claims

1. A cooler for a vehicle, the cooler comprising: forming the peripheral wall of the chamber, Wherein the chamber is configured to maintain the food in a temperature-controlled environment.

2. Cooler according to the preceding claim, wherein The peripheral wall is thermally insulated.

3. A cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The peripheral wall is vacuum insulated.

4. The cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a partition located in the chamber, the partition further dividing the chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber, wherein: The partition includes a first surface facing the first sub-chamber and a second surface facing the second sub-chamber.

5. The cooler according to claim 4, wherein: The partition includes one or more thermal modules.

6. The cooler according to claim 5, wherein: The one or more thermal modules heat the first surface of the divider.

7. The cooler according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein: The one or more thermal modules cool the first surface of the divider.

8. The cooler according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The one or more thermal modules heat the second surface of the divider.

9. The cooler according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein: The one or more thermal modules cool a second surface of the partition, wherein the second surface faces the second sub-chamber.

10. A cooler according to any preceding claim, further comprising a cover movable between an open position and a closed position.

11. The cooler according to claim 10, wherein: The cover is thermally insulating.

12. The cooler according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein: The lid is vacuum insulated.

13. A cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The cooler is integrated into the vehicle.

14. A cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The cooler is integrated into the front trunk of the vehicle.

15. The cooler according to claim 14, wherein: The wall of the front luggage box forms the peripheral wall.

16. The cooler according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The cooler is integrated into the trunk of the vehicle.

17. The cooler according to claim 16, wherein: The wall of the trunk forms the peripheral wall.

18. The cooler according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The cooler is integrated into a side compartment of the vehicle.

19. The cooler according to claim 18, wherein: The walls of the side compartments form the peripheral wall.

20. The cooler according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The cooler is removably insertable into a recess in the vehicle.

21. The cooler according to claim 20, wherein: The recess is located in a front trunk of the vehicle.

22. The cooler according to claim 20, wherein: The recess is located in a trunk of the vehicle.

23. The cooler according to claim 20, wherein: The recess is located in a side compartment of the vehicle.

24. The cooler according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein: The cap includes a handle.

25. A cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The peripheral wall includes a phase change material.

26. The cooler according to claim 25, wherein The phase change material is configured to maintain the chamber in a cooled state.

27. A cooler according to any one of claims 4 to 24, wherein: The portion forming the peripheral wall of the first sub-chamber includes a phase change material.

28. The cooler according to claim 27, wherein The phase change material is configured to maintain the first sub-chamber in a cooled state.

29. A cooler according to any one of claims 4 to 24 and 27 to 28, wherein The portion forming the peripheral wall of the second sub-chamber includes a phase change material.

30. The cooler according to claim 29, wherein: The phase change material is configured to maintain the second sub-chamber in a cooled state.

31. A cooler according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein: The phase change material is charged with a cooling system.

32. The cooler according to claim 31, wherein The cooler includes electrical contacts for powering the cooling system.

33. A cooler according to any one of claims 31 to 32, wherein: The cooling system includes an air conditioning (AC) unit of the vehicle.

34. A cooler according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein: The cooling system includes a battery cooling unit of the vehicle.

35. A cooler according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein: The cooling system comprises: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow path passing through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow line passing through the second heat exchanger, wherein the first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air directed to a passenger cabin of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, and Wherein, heat from the second coolant in the second flow line is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger.

36. The cooler according to claim 35, wherein The second flow line extends through the phase change material so that the second coolant fills the phase change material.

37. The cooler according to claim 36, wherein The second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to fill the phase change material.

38. A cooler according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein: The cooling system includes a conduit and a cooling fluid in the conduit.

39. The cooler according to claim 38, wherein The cooling fluid includes a mixture of water and ethanol.

40. A cooler according to any one of claims 38 to 39, wherein: A portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall.

41. The cooler according to claim 40, wherein The portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall in a coil-like manner.

42. A cooler according to any one of claims 40 to 41, wherein The portion of the conduit includes a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the conduit.

43. A cooler according to any one of claims 38 to 42, wherein: The cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

44. A cooler according to any one of claims 38 to 43, wherein: The cooling system also includes a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

45. The cooler of claim 44, wherein: The first heat sink includes a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

46. ​​A cooler according to any one of claims 44 to 45, wherein The cooling system also includes a thermoelectric module.

47. The cooler according to claim 46, wherein The thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

48. A cooler according to any one of claims 46 to 47, wherein The cooling system also includes a second radiator.

49. The cooler according to claim 48, wherein The thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

50. A cooler according to any one of claims 48 to 49, wherein: The cooling system also includes a fan.

51. The cooler according to claim 50, wherein The fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second heat sink.

52. A cooler according to any one of claims 38 to 51, wherein: The cooling system also includes a reservoir.

53. The cooler according to claim 52, wherein: The reservoir comprises a valve configured to exhaust cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or to introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

54. A cooler according to any one of claims 38 to 53, wherein: The cooling system also includes a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

55. A cooler according to any one of claims 31 to 54, wherein: The cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

56. A cooler according to any preceding claim, wherein: The cooler includes one or more temperature sensors.

57. A cooler according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The cooler is configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote electronic device.

58. The cooler of claim 57, wherein: The remote electronics controls one or more functions of the cooler.

59. A vehicle comprising: A temperature controlled compartment integrated into a compartment of the vehicle, the temperature controlled compartment comprising: forming a peripheral wall of a chamber configured to maintain a food product in a temperature-controlled environment; and A cover is movable between an open position and a closed position.

60. The vehicle of claim 59, wherein: The compartment of the vehicle includes a front luggage compartment, a trunk, or a side compartment.

61. A vehicle according to any one of claims 59 to 60, wherein One or more walls of the vehicle form the peripheral wall.

62. A vehicle according to any one of claims 59 to 61, wherein The peripheral wall is thermally insulated.

63. A vehicle according to any one of claims 59 to 62, wherein: The peripheral wall is vacuum insulated.

64. A vehicle according to any one of claims 59 to 63, wherein The peripheral wall includes a phase change material configured to maintain the chamber in a cooled state.

65. The vehicle of claim 64, further comprising a cooling system configured to charge the phase change material.

66. The vehicle of claim 65, wherein: The cooling system includes an air conditioning (AC) unit of the vehicle.

67. The vehicle of claim 65, wherein: The cooling system includes a battery cooling unit of the vehicle.

68. A vehicle according to any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein The cooling system comprises: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow path passing through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow line passing through the second heat exchanger, wherein the first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air directed to a passenger cabin of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, and Wherein, heat from the second coolant in the second flow line is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger.

69. The vehicle of claim 68, wherein: The second flow line extends through the phase change material so that the second coolant fills the phase change material.

70. The vehicle of claim 69, wherein: The second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to fill the phase change material.

71. A vehicle according to any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein The cooling system includes a conduit and a cooling fluid in the conduit.

72. The vehicle of claim 71, wherein: The cooling fluid includes a mixture of water and ethanol.

73. A vehicle according to any one of claims 71 to 72, wherein: A portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall.

74. The vehicle of claim 73, wherein: The portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall in a coil-like manner.

75. A vehicle according to any one of claims 73 to 74, wherein The portion of the conduit includes a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the conduit.

76. A vehicle according to any one of claims 71 to 75, wherein The cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

77. A vehicle according to any one of claims 71 to 76, wherein The cooling system also includes a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

78. The vehicle of claim 77, wherein: The first heat sink includes a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

79. A vehicle according to any one of claims 77 to 78, wherein The cooling system also includes a thermoelectric module.

80. The vehicle of claim 79, wherein: The thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

81. A vehicle according to any one of claims 79 to 80, wherein The cooling system also includes a second radiator.

82. The vehicle of claim 81, wherein: The thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

83. A vehicle according to any one of claims 81 to 82, wherein The cooling system also includes a fan.

84. The vehicle of claim 83, wherein: The fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second heat sink.

85. A vehicle according to any one of claims 71 to 84, wherein The cooling system also includes a reservoir.

86. The vehicle of claim 85, wherein: The reservoir comprises a valve configured to exhaust cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or to introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

87. A vehicle according to any one of claims 71 to 86, wherein The cooling system also includes a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

88. A vehicle according to any one of claims 65 to 87, wherein The cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

89. A vehicle according to any one of claims 59 to 87, wherein The temperature-controlled compartment further includes a partition located in the chamber, the partition further dividing the chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber, wherein the partition includes a first surface facing the first sub-chamber and a second surface facing the second sub-chamber.

90. The vehicle of claim 89, wherein: The partition includes one or more thermal modules.

91. The vehicle of claim 90, wherein: The one or more thermal modules heat the first surface of the divider.

92. A vehicle according to any one of claims 90 to 91, wherein The one or more thermal modules cool the first surface of the divider.

93. A vehicle according to any one of claims 90 to 92, wherein: The one or more thermal modules heat the second surface of the divider.

94. A vehicle according to any one of claims 90 to 93, wherein The one or more thermal modules cool a second surface of the partition, wherein the second surface faces the second sub-chamber.

95. A vehicle comprising: a recess configured to removably receive one or more coolers, each of the one or more coolers comprising: forming a peripheral wall of a chamber configured to maintain a food product in a temperature-controlled environment; and A cover is movable between an open position and a closed position.

96. The vehicle of claim 95, wherein: The recess is located in the front luggage box, the trunk or the side compartment.

97. A vehicle according to any one of claims 95 to 96, wherein The one or more coolers include a phase change material in the peripheral wall.

98. The vehicle of claim 97, wherein: The one or more coolers include a cooling system configured to be charged with the phase change material.

99. The vehicle of claim 98, wherein: The recess includes electrical contacts and the one or more coolers include electrical contacts, wherein a connection between the electrical contacts of the recess and the electrical contacts of the one or more coolers is configured to transfer power from the vehicle to the cooling system.

100. A cooling system for a temperature-controlled compartment in a vehicle, the cooling system comprising: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a first flow path passing through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a second flow line passing through the second heat exchanger, wherein the first coolant in the first flow circuit is configured to cool air directed to a passenger cabin of the vehicle via the first heat exchanger, wherein heat from the second coolant in the second flow line is transferred to the first coolant via the second heat exchanger, and The second flow line extends through the phase change material of the temperature controlled compartment so that the second coolant fills the phase change material.

101. The cooling system of claim 100, wherein: The second coolant absorbs heat from the phase change material to fill the phase change material.

102. The cooling system of any one of claims 100 to 101, wherein: The cooling system includes an air conditioning (AC) unit of the vehicle.

103. The cooling system of any one of claims 100 to 101, wherein: The cooling system includes a battery cooling unit of the vehicle.

104. A cooling system according to any one of claims 100 to 103, wherein: The cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

105. A cooling system for a temperature-controlled compartment in a vehicle, the cooling system comprising: catheter; and The cooling fluid in the conduit, Part of the conduit extends through a peripheral wall of the temperature-controlled compartment to fill the peripheral wall with phase change material.

106. The cooling system of claim 105, wherein: The portion of the conduit extends through the peripheral wall in a coil-like manner.

107. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 106, wherein: The portion of the conduit includes a fin, wherein the fin extends from the portion of the conduit.

108. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 107, wherein: The cooling fluid removes heat from the phase change material to charge the phase change material.

109. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 108, wherein: The cooling system also includes a first radiator configured to cool the cooling fluid.

110. The cooling system of claim 109, wherein: The first heat sink includes a flow path in fluid communication with the conduit.

111. A cooling system according to any one of claims 109 to 110, wherein: The cooling system also includes a thermoelectric module.

112. The cooling system of claim 111, wherein: The thermoelectric module is configured to remove heat from the first heat exchanger.

113. A cooling system according to any one of claims 111 to 112, wherein: The cooling system also includes a second radiator.

114. The cooling system of claim 113, wherein: The thermoelectric module is configured to transfer heat to the second heat sink.

115. A cooling system according to any one of claims 113 to 114, wherein: The cooling system also includes a fan.

116. The cooling system of claim 115, wherein: The fan is configured to dissipate heat from the second heat sink.

117. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 116, wherein: The cooling system also includes a reservoir.

118. The cooling system of claim 117, wherein: The reservoir comprises a valve configured to exhaust cooling fluid from the cooling system and / or to introduce cooling fluid into the cooling system.

119. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 118, wherein: The cooling system also includes a pump configured to pump the cooling fluid through the conduit.

120. A cooling system according to any one of claims 105 to 119, wherein: The cooling system is configured to operate only when the vehicle is connected to a power source.

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