Methods, systems, and devices for portable environmental control containers

Abstract

Reconfigurable portable containers for dispensing food products from a central location to a remote location are disclosed. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a portable container for dispensing food products operable to maintain an environment of the food products during a dispensing process.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 483,983, filed December 9, 2023, entitled “Methods, Systems, and Apparatus for Portable Environmentally Controlled Containers,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to portable containers for delivering food from a central location to a remote location. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to portable containers for delivering food that are operable to maintain the environment of the food during the delivery process. Background Art

[0004] Spending on restaurant food delivery in the United States is approaching $50 billion annually. By 2023, this figure is projected to exceed $90 billion annually in the U.S. and $160 billion annually globally. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the food delivery sector is likely to grow even faster.

[0005] As food delivery rates increase, consumer expectations for quality and taste will also increase. Efforts are underway to improve the quality of delivered food upon arrival at its destination, to match or substantially match the quality of the food at the preparation location. Current solutions focus on maintaining the heat of the food being delivered. However, heat alone cannot overcome the degradation of food quality during the delivery process.

[0006] What is needed are methods, systems, and apparatus for portable, climate-controlled containers suitable for food delivery that enable the delivered food to maintain the quality and experience of a dine-in experience. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Methods, systems, and apparatus for portable, climate-controlled containers suitable for food delivery are disclosed, enabling food delivery to maintain the quality and experience of a dine-in experience. The systems and apparatus can be configured to control multiple environmental factors to maintain food temperature and humidity. There is also a need for methods, systems, and apparatus for monitoring environmental conditions and reporting changes in conditions without opening the container. There is also a need for tools to customize environmental conditions based on the type of food being transported.

[0008] A portable container is disclosed. A suitable portable container includes: a housing having an openable section operable to move from an open position for receiving a container to a closed position; an environmental control module interface surface removably coupled to a surface of the portable container; an environmental control module operable to engage the environmental control module interface surface; one or more environmental controllers; one or more environmental sensors; and a power source, wherein the environmental control module is operable to transmit one or more sensed environmental conditions and adjust the one or more environmental controllers. The container and / or the housing have a three-dimensional shape selected from a cube, a rectangular parallelepiped, a pyramid, a cone, a triangular prism, and a cylinder. The one or more environmental sensors are selected from a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, an air quality sensor, and a smoke sensor. Furthermore, any of these environmental sensors may be provided in more than one quantity. In some configurations, one or more environmental sensors are positioned within the environmental controller. Furthermore, one or more environmental sensors are positioned within the portable container remote from the environmental controller. In some embodiments, a GPS sensor may also be provided. Communication means may also be provided for transmitting information from one or more sensors and receiving environmental control instructions in response to the transmitted sensor information. One or more GPS sensors and gravity acceleration sensors may also be provided.

[0009] Another embodiment relates to a method of transporting, comprising: providing a portable container having: a housing having an openable section operable to move from an open position for receiving a food container to a closed position; an environmental control module interface surface incorporated into a surface of the portable container; an environmental control module operable to engage the environmental control module interface surface; one or more environmental controllers; one or more environmental sensors; and a power source, wherein the environmental control module is operable to transmit one or more sensed environmental conditions and adjust the one or more environmental controllers; the method of transporting comprising: opening the portable container; placing a food container in the portable container for transport; closing the portable container; configuring the environmental control module to maintain the environment within the container based on identification of food within the food container; and transporting the portable container. The method may also include one or more of the following: determining the GPS location of the portable container; determining the gravitational acceleration of the portable container; determining whether the portable container maintains one or more environmental conditions during transportation, and delivering the food container if the portable container maintains the one or more environmental conditions; determining whether the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transportation, and delivering the food container if the portable container is not subjected to any gravitational acceleration; and determining whether the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transportation, and if the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration, determining whether the gravitational acceleration is within a predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations, and delivering the food container if the gravitational acceleration is within the predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations.

[0010] An insulated delivery bag or environmentally controlled container is disclosed. The insulated bag can be soft-sided and, for example, can take the shape of a pizza box. The insulated bag can also be hard-sided and can take any shape suitable for delivering ready-to-deliver food. The insulated bag is operable to measure and regulate the internal temperature and moisture content (humidity) of the insulated delivery bag through the use of sensors, fans, heaters, and software.

[0011] On one side of the insulation pack, there is a hard-sided outer shell and an environmental controller that contains the hardware and software that enables the environmentally controlled container to operate. There is a PCBA that acts as the "control center" of the device via communication with an application running on the user's phone or dashboard, accessed via the web, which controls the operation of the fans, heaters, sensors, communications, etc.

[0012] Inside the insulated bag, associated with the top and bottom layers are coil heaters operable to act as the primary heat source for the insulated bag. When the environmental controller is secured to the insulated bag, the heating coils can be connected to the environmental controller via a lead and power is provided to the heating coils via the environmental controller. One or more of each of the humidity sensor and the temperature sensor can be disposed inside the insulated bag or attached to the environmental control hub, which is connected to a power source and receives power.

[0013] The environmental controller can be provided with two fans. The first fan is operable as an exhaust fan and the second fan is operable as an intake fan. The intake fan can also include a coil heater mounted within the fan to enable heated air to enter the interior of the insulated bag. The coil heater can be a third heater. This intake fan heater is typically used when pre-heating the insulated bag and when the interior temperature of the insulated bag drops below a pre-set threshold and the intake fan heater acts as a “booster” to return the temperature to within the threshold more quickly than via the heaters positioned within the insulated bag.

[0014] The exhaust fan is typically used to draw moisture produced from the food as steam from the insulated bag. Any fan housing provided is equipped with flaps or louvers that are in a closed position due to gravity when the fan is not in use, thereby sealing the opening in the insulated bag through which heat can escape. When the fan is engaged, the force of the air pushes the louvers open and air passes therethrough.

[0015] Multiple power sources can be provided. For example, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, lithium ion batteries (contained within a housing), 120v standard wall outlet, 12v car lighter can be used. The use of multiple power sources is operable to maximize the battery life of any battery provided. For example, when waiting for an order to be delivered in a restaurant, the insulated bag can be plugged into a standard 120V wall outlet, for example, to pre-heat. When transporting on foot or by bicycle, the insulated bag can be operable to maintain the environment within the insulated bag within the target parameters on battery power alone and when in a vehicle, for example, the insulated bag can be plugged into the lighter to obtain power.

[0016] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system comprising one or more of: a memory; one or more processors; and one or more computer-executable instructions stored in the memory and executable by the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: receiving a current geographic location of the device via a mobile application associated with a service provider on the device; receiving one or more environmental conditions via the mobile application associated with the service provider on the device; determining whether a portable container maintained the one or more environmental conditions within an environmental condition range during transportation, and dispensing a food container within the portable container if the portable container maintained the one or more environmental conditions; and displaying instructions via the mobile application to dispense the food container if the environmental conditions were maintained. Additionally, the system may be operable to determine whether the portable container was subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transportation, and if the portable container was not subjected to any gravitational acceleration, dispense the food container, and / or determine whether the portable container was subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transportation, and if the portable container was subjected to any gravitational acceleration, determine whether the gravitational acceleration was within a predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations, and if the gravitational acceleration was within the predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations, dispense the food container.

[0017] Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments, as claimed.

[0018] Incorporated by Reference

[0019] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0020] US 6,281,477 Bl, Forrester et al., granted on August 28, 2001;

[0021] US 6,297,481 Bl, Gordon, granted on October 2, 2001;

[0022] US 6,353,208 Bl, Bostic et al., granted March 5, 2002;

[0023] US 8,168,923 B2, Wong et al., granted May 1, 2012;

[0024] US 9,492,035 B2, Pavel et al., granted November 15, 2016;

[0025] US 10,049,236 Bl, Alkarmi et al., issued August 14, 2018;

[0026] US 10,207,804 Bl, Gentry, issued February 19, 2019;

[0027] US 10,321,263 Bl, Alkarmi et al., published June 11, 2019;

[0028] US 11,449,818 B2, Escobar et al., issued September 20, 2022;

[0029] US 2015 / 0374177 Al, Pavel et al., published December 31, 2015;

[0030] US 2017 / 0265687 Al, Veltrop et al., published September 21, 2017;

[0031] US 2018 / 0061207 Al, Nygren et al., published March 1, 2018;

[0032] US 2019 / 0112119 Al, Alexander et al., published April 18, 2019;

[0033] US 2019 / 0337706 Al, Vain et al., published November 7, 2019;

[0034] US 2020 / 0051015 Al, Davis et al., published February 13, 2020;

[0035] US 2020 / 0229645 Al, Karsten et al., published July 23, 2020;

[0036] US 2022 / 0044188 Al, Escobar et al., published February 10, 2022;

[0037] GB 2374918 A, Reece, published October 30, 2002;

[0038] CN 203723974 U, published July 23, 2014;

[0039] EP 1580145 Al, Martini, published September 28, 2005;

[0040] JP 2009285130 A, Ito et al., published October 12, 2009;

[0041] KR 20110011575 A, published on February 8, 2011;

[0042] WO 1995 / 020535 A1, Ghirardi, published August 3, 1995;

[0043] WO 2020 / 037370 Al, Valance, published on February 27, 2020;

[0044] WO 2020 / 046385 Al, Pointer et al., published March 5, 2020;

[0045] WO 2022 / 031897 A1, Escobar et al., published February 10, 2022; and

[0046] Labuza et al., Moisture migration and control in multidomain foods, Trends in Food Science and Technology, 9(2): 47-55 (1998). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The novel features of the present invention are particularly set forth in the appended claims. The features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments utilizing the principles of the invention and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0048] Figures 1A-1K An environmental control container is shown;

[0049] Figures 2A-2B The environmentally controlled container is shown with the front flap open;

[0050] Figures 3A-3E An environmentally controlled container is shown with components separated and grouped;

[0051] Figures 4A-4F Another environmentally controlled container is shown with components separated and grouped;

[0052] Figures 5A-5D A bottom bag is shown that can be inserted into an environmentally controlled container along with a power supply and heating element insert;

[0053] Figures 6A-6D A top bag that can be inserted into an environmentally controlled container along with a heating element insert is shown;

[0054] Figures 7A-7E The bag is shown arranged in an environmentally controlled container, wherein the components are separated and grouped;

[0055] Figure 8 A block diagram illustrating components of a system including an environmentally controlled container;

[0056] Figure 9 An exemplary process flow for managing an environment within a device is shown; and

[0057] Figures 10A-10G An exemplary power tree is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] I. Apparatus

[0059] An environmentally controlled container according to the present disclosure can be an insulated package and include, for example, one or more radiant heaters, an air heater, an intake fan, an exhaust fan, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, one or more shutters, a power supply, a printed circuit board, a Bluetooth transmitter, a cellular transmitter, and a GPS tracker or transponder.

[0060] A radiant heater may be located within the upper / top wall of the insulation pack within the sleeve. A second heater may be provided within the bottom / lower wall of the insulation pack within the sleeve. The heater is used to heat the insulation pack and maintain the internal temperature of the insulation pack within a predetermined range during transport.

[0061] A forced air heater may be provided as part of the intake fan system. The forced air heater may, for example, be located at the rear of the insulation pack (e.g., on the side of the insulation pack opposite the opening when the opening is located on one side of the insulation pack). The forced air heater may be part of a hard case housing that removably engages the back of the insulation pack (e.g., snaps onto the insulation pack or is secured by a hook-and-loop flap). The forced air heater is a radiant heater attached to a fan that draws air into the insulation pack. The air passes through the forced air heater, thereby heating the air as it enters the interior of the insulation pack. The forced air heater may also heat the insulation pack itself and provide additional support for the radiant heater during transport. During use, if the internal temperature of the insulation pack drops below a lower temperature threshold, the intake fan and forced air heater may be operable to turn on in response to the sensed temperature and to return the internal temperature of the insulation pack to a temperature within a preset or optimal temperature range. Temperature regulation using the forced air heater enables the temperature to return to a temperature within the preset or optimal temperature range more quickly than when heat is controlled using only the radiant heater.

[0062] The exhaust fan can be located, for example, at the rear of the insulation bag, on the side opposite the hard case housing or environmental controller and the intake fan or forced air heater. The exhaust fan is used to regulate the moisture content of the air inside the insulation bag during transport. If the humidity level inside the insulation bag increases above a preset limit, the exhaust fan turns on and exhausts the moist air from the insulation bag. Once the humidity level falls back within range, the exhaust fan turns off.

[0063] A sensor is provided, including one or more of each of, for example, a humidity sensor and a temperature sensor. The sensor can be disposed, for example, at the back of the insulated pack. The sensor can be operable to take continuous or near-continuous readings, which are then transmitted to a printed circuit board assembly in real-time or near real-time, which engages and disengages the heater and fan in pursuit of a target humidity or humidity range and / or a target temperature or temperature range.

[0064] A horizontal or vertical flap (e.g., louver) can be provided. The flap can be formed of, for example, silicone or a similar material. The flap can be positioned over one or more of each of the intake fan and the exhaust fan. When the fan is not on (e.g., when the fan is in an off state), the flap prevents heat from escaping from the insulated pack. When the fan is on, the flap opens slightly under the force of the fan and allows air to pass through the aperture that holds the fan. When the fan is off, the flap closes and seals the opening of the aperture that houses the fan. The opening and closing of the flap occurs when air is acting on the flap and the flap closes when air is no longer acting on the flap.

[0065] A suitable power source includes one or more of each of: a battery, a wall plug (e.g., an electrical outlet, an electrical socket, a plug, and / or a wall plug), and a cigarette lighter power source (e.g., by plugging the device into an automobile cigarette lighter). For proper use, the power source is plugged into the wall for about 10 minutes to 20 minutes to pre-heat. While in transit, the insulated pack can be powered by a battery and / or plugged into an automobile cigarette lighter port to supplement power.

[0066] One or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) can be provided. The PCBs can be mounted within the hard case at the back of the device. The PCBs are operable to house components for managing the operation of the sensors, fans, and heaters, as well as communication hardware for transmitting data.

[0067] A Bluetooth transmitter can also be provided. The Bluetooth transmitter can be enclosed within the hard case. The Bluetooth transmitter sends data from the environmental control container to, for example, a phone or other Bluetooth device. The data includes, for example, temperature, humidity, GPS location, time, gravity acceleration impact, battery status, and the like.

[0068] A cellular transmitter can also be provided, which can also be enclosed within the hard case. The cellular transmitter can be used to send data. The cellular transmitter can send data, for example, when a Bluetooth device is not available.

[0069] A GPS tracker / transponder can also be provided. The GPS tracker can be enclosed within the hard case. The GPS tracker is operable to send location data of the device via an available Bluetooth or cellular transmitter. The GPS tracker allows for tracking the location of each environmental control container in real-time or near real-time.

[0070] Now turn Figures 1A-1K The embodiment of the environmentally controlled container 100 shown in FIG. illustrates the environmentally controlled container 100. The environmentally controlled container 100 is operable to accommodate a container having environmentally fragile contents (such as edible items). The environmentally controlled container has an inner surface and an outer surface and defines an internal cavity. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, humidity is a parameter that cannot be controlled, for example, by an oven. Humidity comprises water molecules, which conduct heat much faster than air. Therefore, humid air transfers heat to food more efficiently. During the cooking process, humidity can cause food to cook faster while also preventing water from evaporating from the food. Another influence on temperature is air pressure. Due to significant differences in air density, temperature can affect air pressure to varying degrees. Therefore, the overall optimal environment can be affected by a variety of different environmental conditions. The external dimensions of the environmentally controlled container disclosed herein can be configured to have a first dimension (e.g., width) ranging from 15 inches to 25 inches, a second dimension (e.g., length) ranging from 15 inches to 25 inches, and a third dimension (e.g., depth) ranging from 3 inches to 15 inches. The internal dimensions of the disclosed environmentally controlled container are smaller than the external dimensions of the container.

[0071] Figures 1A-1B A perspective view of an example of an environmentally controlled container 100 is shown from a first end, which is closed, and a second end, which has an environmental controller 120. The container 100 has a three-dimensional shape that defines an interior space into which items for which environmental control is desired can be placed. The environmental controller 120 is removable.

[0072] like Figures 1A-1F As shown, the environmental control container 100 has a top side 101, a bottom side 102, a first side 103, a second side 104, a third side 105, and a fourth side 106. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, these sides may be referred to as a front side, a back side, a right side, and a left side without departing from the scope of this disclosure. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, although the environmental control container 100 is shown as having an opening for receiving a container (e.g., the third side 105) and an opening for securing a controller (e.g., the fourth side 106), any side may be used for those purposes without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] The first container of the environmental control container 100 is made of an insulating material. In addition, the first container of the environmental control container 100 can have multiple flexible or semi-flexible sides and an interface surface for engaging the environmental controller 120. One of these sides can be an open side, thereby allowing access to the interior of the environmental control container 100. As shown, the fourth side 106 is configured to removably secure the environmental controller 120.

[0074] The environmental control container 100 can be made of a material that allows the device to wick moisture from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing. In addition, the environmental control container 100 can include one or more panels made of a substantially flexible material. In other configurations, the environmental control container 100 can be made of one or more panels having a rigid or partially rigid shape (e.g., a skeleton) to allow stacking of multiple environmental control containers 100.

[0075] The environmental control container 100 can have a square or rectangular shape in a first dimension (e.g., along the upper surface with handle 110), and a square or rectangular shape in a second dimension. The handle 110 (e.g., two straps 112, 112') can be configured to be operable so as to carry the environmental control container 100, thereby facilitating the optimal orientation of the environmental control container 100. As shown, each strap engages the side of the first container (external container) of the environmental control container 100. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, straps 112, 112' can be connected to the side of the first container of the environmental control container (as shown), or connected along the open side and the opposite rear side, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. As shown, the third side 105 engages the environmental controller 120. In addition, a retainer 114 can be provided to secure the two straps 112, 112' together. Retainer 114 can be a separate retainer element, or can be incorporated into one of the straps 112, 112' so as to secure the straps together.

[0076] The environmental controller 120 can be positioned on any surface of the environmentally controlled container 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As shown, the environmental controller 120 is secured to a side wall of the environmentally controlled container 100.

[0077] The size of the interior space or chamber can be designed to receive a second container (inner container), which is further designed to receive multiple containers, such as pizza boxes and takeout food containers. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the exemplary shapes provided in the drawings are shapes suitable for, for example, pizza boxes. However, other shapes can be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the three-dimensional shape can be selected from a cube, a cuboid, a pyramid, a cone, a triangular prism, and a cylinder. In addition, in some configurations, the position of the opening can be located along the upper surface (where the handle is located in the illustration) and the removable controller can also be located in another position without departing from the scope of this disclosure. One or more surfaces can be soft-sided. At least one surface or a portion thereof is configured to engage the environmental controller 120.

[0078] Figure 1G FIG. 1 is a top view of the environmentally controlled container 100 with its front side open. Figure 1H and Figure 1Jis a perspective view of the environmentally controlled container 100 from the rear surface perspective, with the front side open and the aperture used to hold a second container. The flap is shown in an open configuration. Figure 1I Also shown is a perspective view of an environmentally controlled container 100 from a rear surface perspective, with the front side open and the aperture used to hold a second container. In this configuration, a hook and loop fastener (e.g., Velcro) ) folded back onto the surface of the environmentally controlled container. Figure 1K Shown is the outer container of environmental control container, has opening 130 (for example, square or rectangle) on the back of container, and this opening can be operated to engage environmental controller.Upper flap 132 and lower flap 132 ' are arranged on each side in the opposite sides of opening 130.When opening 130 has rectangular shape as shown in the figure, upper flap 132 and lower flap 132 ' are for example arranged on the long side of opening 130, this provides additional strength when inner chamber and outer container engage.When opening is rectangular shape, two additional side flaps 134, 134 ' can also be set on opening 130.Each in flap (for example, upper flap 132, lower flap 132 ' and side flap 134, 134 ') can be provided with the hook and loop (for example half length of hook and loop 136) of a length, when any flap is folded back to fixed position towards environmental control container 100, this length of hook and loop will engage the mating length of the other half of hook and loop 136 '. The length of the hook and loop fastener on the outer surface or flaps (e.g., upper flap 132, lower flap 132', and side flaps 134, 134') of the environmental control container 100 may correspond to the length of the side of the opening to which the hook and loop fastener is fixed, or may be less than the length of the side of the opening or the length of multiple fasteners applied in series along the side of the opening. The flaps (e.g., upper flap 132, lower flap 132', and side flaps 134, 134') pass through the retainer 332 (e.g., Figure 3D A space or gap is defined between the removable environmental controller 120 and the environmental control container 100 to allow the flaps (e.g., upper flap 132, lower flap 132', and side flaps 134, 134') to be folded back onto the outer surface of the outer container of the environmental control container, thereby locking the hook fastener surfaces to the loop fastener surfaces and securing the environmental controller 120 to the environmental control container 100.

[0079] Figures 2A-2B The environmentally controlled container 100 is shown with the front flap open at the fourth side 106. The interior 220 of the container may be all metal and include shelves as described below in FIG. Figure 2A For example, two pizza boxes are shown positioned within the interior of the environmentally controlled container 100.

[0080] Figures 3A-3CAn environmental control container 100 is shown. The environmental control container 100 has a first container 310 and a second container 330. The first container 310 can be a bag with flexible sides, and the second container 330 can be an oven assembly with rigid sides and shelves. The second container 330 is loaded into the first container 310 by movement shown by arrow 301. Each of the first container 310 and the second container 330 has a first side, a second side, a front side, a back side, a top side, and a bottom side. The first container 310 is sized to retain the second container 330 within an interior cavity through an opening 312 accessible on a side of the first container 310, such as the front side. The environmental controller 120 can be secured to a side of the second container 330 and interact with an orifice 314 on a side of the first container 310, such as the back side. One or more hook and loop fasteners 316, such as ) is positioned on the surface of the first container adjacent to the orifice 314. A hook and loop fastener 316 can be positioned adjacent to the orifice 314 and can be used to removably secure the second container 330 to the first container 310.

[0081] like Figures 3D-3E As shown, the hook and loop 316 passes around the retainer 332 and wraps back onto itself to secure the second container 330. The face of the environmental controller 120 can be configured with a charging jack 334 and a power switch 336. A recess 338 and a plurality of apertures 340 on the front surface of the environmental controller 120 facilitate air flow between the air intake and exhaust ports. The air intake 342 and exhaust 344 can be located on opposite ends of the environmental controller 120.

[0082] Return to Figure 3B , shows a first container 310, wherein the front flap is opened, and the second container 330 is positioned to be slidably received in the interior of the first container 310. The first container 310 is soft-sided, and the second container 330 is hard-sided. The interior of the second container 330 has a shelf 350 that separates the interior of the second container 330 into two chambers 352, 352'. The second container 330 may also include another insulation layer 353. The two chambers can be positioned one on top of the other (as shown) or side by side. The surface of the shelf 350 may have multiple apertures to allow air to flow between the two chambers 352, 352'.

[0083] Figure 3C3 is a cross-sectional view of an environmental controller container 100 with a second container 330 positioned within a first container 310. The first container 310 has a foam layer 318 and an outer material layer 320. The foam layer 318 can be selected to provide an insulating layer and / or to prevent damage to the layers of the second container 330. The second container 330 has a heater 354. A power source 356 (such as a rechargeable battery) is disposed on the lower surface of the second container 330. Positioning the battery on the lower surface allows the weight of the battery to be distributed along the container and balances the weight of the environmental controller 120 to allow the insulation pack to remain horizontally oriented, while positioning the battery adjacent to the environmental controller 120 or incorporated into the environmental controller may result in a weight imbalance, which may cause the environmental controller container 100 to tilt, potentially reorienting a food container positioned within the environmental control container 100.

[0084] Figures 4A-4F Another environmental control container 400 is shown, wherein the components are separated and grouped. The environmental control container has an inner surface and an outer surface, and defines an internal cavity or chamber. As shown, the environmental control container 400 is a portable soft bread. The environmental controller 120 shown above in Figures 1 and 3 can be secured to the environmental control container 400 at a fourth side 406, which is configured to removably secure the environmental controller 120.

[0085] As discussed above, the environmental controller 120 may have one or more of an air intake, an exhaust, a heater, one or more sensors, one or more fans, a global positioning system (GPS), a printed circuit board (PCB), wifi, and memory.

[0086] Figure 4A The environmentally controlled container 400 is shown in a rear perspective view with a front flap in an open configuration opposite the rear opening, wherein the rear surface is operable to engage the environmental controller 120 and the front surface is operable to open / close to receive the contents within the interior of the environmentally controlled container. A retainer 414 may be provided to secure the two straps 412, 412' together. The retainer 414 may be a separate retainer element or may be incorporated into one of the straps to facilitate securing the straps together.

[0087] Figure 4B The inward-facing surface of the top side 401 of the environmentally controlled container 400 is shown. A plurality of strips 420, 420' of hook and loop fasteners are provided to removably secure the components. As shown, one or more strips 420 are positioned along or near the outer edge of the inward-facing surface of the top side 401, and one or more separate strips 420' are centrally positioned on the inward-facing surface of the top side 401. The inward-facing fasteners are operable to removably secure a first bag (e.g., FIG. 6 ) to the inward-facing upper surface.

[0088] Figure 4D A cutaway side view of an environmentally controlled container 400 is shown. The inner surface of sidewall 403 has a plurality of strips of Velcro 424, 424'. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, although not shown, the opposing sidewall of the environmentally controlled container 400 may also have a plurality of strips of Velcro positioned at or near opposing locations. The Velcro 424, 424' on the inner sidewall is operable to secure the shelf within the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400.

[0089] Can provide similar Figure 3B 350 shown in FIG. One or more shelves can be made of metal, vinyl plastic, or any other suitable material that can be operated to separate the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400 into two or more sections, each section being operable to receive food containers. Other mechanisms for securing one or more shelves to the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400 are also possible. The shelves can be provided with a length of mating hook and loop fasteners that are positioned to engage the hook and loop fasteners on the inner sidewalls 424, 242' above and / or below the shelf's position after the shelf is inserted. In another configuration, the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400 can include one or more flanges, flaps, or ridges extending from the inner surface of the sidewalls. The one or more flanges, flaps, or ridges can be positioned to allow a single shelf to be positioned at different locations within the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400, or to allow more than one shelf to be positioned within the interior of the environmentally controlled container 400 to create different cavities for receiving food and / or food containers. One or more flanges, flaps or ridges can also comprise the sticky fastener of a length on a surface, and this sticky fastener can be operated to cooperate with the sticky fastener of a length along a length.In another configuration, wherein environmental control container 400 is formed by flexible material, and inner surface or inner surface layer can be formed with one or more flexible flaps on either side of inner surface.Then, each flexible flap in one or more flexible flaps can comprise the sticky fastener of a length on the surface facing upward, and this sticky fastener can be operated to cooperate with the sticky fastener of a length on the lower surface of one or more shelves.In another configuration, two or more lateral strips with width and thickness can be applied to inner surface, so that shelf is shelved thereon ledge can be provided.Ledge can be formed by the foam insulation tape that for example adheres to the inner surface of device and width is 1 / 2 inch, thickness is 1 / 4 inch.Ledge can be arranged on the opposite sides of device and place along front opening.In addition, two or more ledges can be a continuous piece along a side or a plurality of shorter pieces along every side.

[0090] Figure 4EThe inward-facing surface of the bottom side 402 of the environmentally controlled container 400 is shown. A plurality of strips 422 of hook and loop fasteners are provided. As shown, one or more strips 422 are positioned along or near the outer edge of the inward-facing surface of the bottom side 402, and one or more separate strips 420' are centrally positioned on the inward-facing surface of the top side 401.

[0091] Figure 4F It is from Figure 4A 5. A partial perspective front view of the environmentally controlled container 400, viewed from an angle opposite to that shown in FIG, illustrates the inwardly facing surface of the bottom side 402. The inwardly facing fastener is operable to secure a removable second bag (e.g., FIG. 5) to the inwardly facing lower surface.

[0092] Figures 5A-5C A bottom bag 500 is shown that can be inserted into the environmentally controlled container 400 shown in Figure 4. The bottom bag 500 can have a length, a width, and a height, and define an interior cavity 510 or chamber. The interior cavity 510 is operable to receive one or more of a heating element and a battery pack. The outwardly facing lower surface 502 has one or more strips of hook and loop fasteners 504, 506 of the bottom bag. The one or more strips of hook and loop fasteners of the bottom bag can be positioned at or near the side of the bottom surface of the bottom bag 500 and positioned to correspond to or substantially correspond to the edges along or near the bottom surface of the bottom bag 500. Figure 4E One or more strips 422 are positioned along the outer edges of the inwardly facing surface of the bottom side 402 of the environmentally controlled container 400 shown in FIG.

[0093] The outer dimensions of the bottom bag 500 disclosed herein can be configured to have a first dimension (e.g., width) of 14.75 inches to 24.75 inches, a second dimension (e.g., length) of 14.75 inches to 24.75 inches, and a third dimension (e.g., height) of 1.0 inches to 2.0 inches. The dimensions of the bottom bag 500 can be optimized to fit tightly within the interior dimensions of the environmentally controlled container.

[0094] One side of the bottom bag 500 can be opened via one or more flaps 520, 520'. The one or more flaps 520, 520' can have one or more strips of side flap-like hook and loop fasteners 522. When the one or more side flaps 520, 520' are in the closed configuration, the side flaps can be fixed to a length of the parallel hook and loop fasteners 522 on the bottom surface, thereby being in a closed configuration. Figure 5C The closed configuration shown in .

[0095] Figure 5DAn exploded view of an insert 550 for insertion into the bottom bag 500 is shown. The insert has, for example, a planar battery pack 552 positioned within a housing 554. The planar battery pack is operable to provide power to the environmentally controlled container and also provides a balanced weight along the bottom surface of the environmentally controlled container during transport to facilitate portability and prevent tipping of the environmentally controlled container and its contents. The battery pack can include a plurality of batteries and electronics connected to a controller (e.g., the environmental controller 120 in FIG. 1 ). A heating element 556 thermally separated from the battery pack can also be provided. Control of the heating element 556 can be performed via the environmental controller 120, which is operable to control the amount and duration of heat delivered.

[0096] Figures 6A-6C A top bag 600 is shown that can be inserted into the mobile climate controlled container shown in Figure 4. The top bag 600 is substantially planar with a smooth inwardly facing surface 602 (e.g., Figure 6C ) and a fastener surface 604. The fastener surface 604 of the top bag has one or more strips of fastener surface hook and loop 610, 612. A central fastener surface hook and loop 614 may also be provided to correspond to the hook and loop positioned on the inwardly facing surface of the environmentally controlled container 400. The top bag 600 has an interior cavity (as shown) sized to receive the heater 650. Figure 6D ). The outer dimensions of the bottom bag 500 disclosed herein can be configured to have a first dimension (e.g., width) of 14.75 inches to 24.75 inches, a second dimension (e.g., length) of 14.75 inches to 24.75 inches, and a third dimension (e.g., height) of 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches. The dimensions of the bottom bag 500 can be optimized to fit tightly within the interior dimensions of the environmentally controlled container.

[0097] The heater 650 has a heating element 652 enclosed in a packaging envelope 658. The heating element 652 can be insulated to prevent it from becoming flammable. The heating element 652 can be formed using, for example, a mesh of polyester filaments and micro-metallic conductive fibers folded in a protective polyimide film. Leads 654, 656 are configured to be electrically connected to a power source (e.g., a battery pack). Control of the heating element 652 can be performed via the environmental controller 120, which is operable to control the amount and duration of heat delivered.

[0098] Figures 7A-7E The bags of Figures 5 and 6 are shown arranged in the environmentally controlled container 400 shown in Figure 4, wherein the components are separated and grouped. The use of removable bags allows one or more heating elements and battery packs to be easily transferred between environmentally controlled containers. Thus, for example, if an environmentally controlled container becomes worn or damaged, the internal components and controller contained in the bags can be transferred to a new environmentally controlled container.

[0099] Figure 8 A is a block diagram showing the components of the environmental control container 100, including a first container 310 having one or more hook and loop fasteners 316, one or more foam layers 318, and a handle 110, and a second container 330 having an environmental controller 120, a power source 356, and a shelf 350. The environmental control container 100 communicates with a software application, software application (app) 810, which can provide control information to the environmental control container 100. In addition, the environmental controller 120 can have one or more of an air inlet, an exhaust port, a heater, one or more sensors, one or more fans, a global positioning system (GPS), a printed circuit board (PCB), wifi, and a memory. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the environmental control container 100 can also be the environmental control container 400. Figure 8 B is a block diagram showing components of the environmentally controlled container 400 .

[0100] II. Method

[0101] One or more fans can be installed on one or more heating elements to force heated air to flow to the contents of environmental control container 100, 400. A PCB can be provided that is configurable to control one or more heating elements and one or more fans based on feedback from, for example, a humidity sensor and / or a thermal sensor. One or more sensors can be a part of environmental controller 120 or incorporated into another surface of the container (for example, at a position away from one or more fans and one or more heaters) to ensure that the farthest position in the container has desired heat and / or humidity. When using a heat pad or liner, the heat pad or liner can provide heat to the inside of the environmental control container. The heat transferred by the heat pad or liner can still be controlled by environmental controller 120.

[0102] The application can be used to monitor conditions within the environmentally controlled container 100, 400 and / or control the environment within the container without opening the container. The application can also be used to warn of faults or environmental changes. Thus, the application can be used, for example, to control and / or monitor temperature and humidity settings, monitor power levels and / or battery usage, etc. Additionally, it may be desirable to monitor gravity acceleration. For example, monitoring gravity acceleration can be used to prevent damaged items from being delivered to a purchaser. The application can be used on any suitable electronic device, including mobile phones and tablets.

[0103] In some configurations, the application that controls the conditions within the container may be part of a secondary device, such as a mobile phone, or the application may be part of an integrated interface accessible to a user outside the container.

[0104] Additionally, one or more displays can be provided that enable the user to determine the on / off condition of the container and / or the power status (e.g., battery level, power plug in, charging status, etc.). The application or software product can also transmit its location and internal settings as well as external conditions to a cloud controller configured to monitor one or more mobile devices via a mobile connection.

[0105] Using the software application 810 or dashboard, the environmental control container is set to target temperature and humidity parameters, which depend on such things as the type of food, external weather conditions, the amount of food in the environmental control container, etc. These parameters can be selected from a preconfigured menu or customized. An example setup can be: temperature range of 75C to 80C; humidity range of 11% to 13%.

[0106] Once the environmental control container is turned on, the environmental control container will begin to preheat to a temperature within the desired temperature range using, for example, all three heaters. Once the environmental control container reaches the lower temperature of the temperature range, the intake fan heater is turned off to conserve power. Once the temperature reaches the upper temperature of the temperature range, the internal heaters are turned off. Once the temperature drops below the upper end value of the temperature range, one or both of the internal heaters in the environmental control container (depending on the settings) will turn back on. If the temperature drops below a lower threshold temperature, the intake fan heater engages until the temperature inside the environmental control container returns to a temperature within the temperature range. This temperature control cycle continues as long as the environmental control container is on and the system operates to maintain the temperature within the desired range.

[0107] Similar to temperature control, humidity is managed by using an exhaust fan, which turns on when the humidity in the environmental control container exceeds the upper limit of the humidity range. Once the humidity drops back to the lower limit of the humidity range, the fan turns off. This humidity control process continues as long as the environmental control container is on and operating to maintain the humidity within the desired range. The humidity control function operates to extend the quality of the food over time. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the quality of the food is affected by the level of moisture in the food. Over time, food that is subjected to heat or warming dries out, which causes the quality of the food to decrease. By monitoring and controlling the humidity within the container, the amount of time that the quality of the food is maintained is extended, providing additional time for the delivery of the food without negatively impacting the quality. For example, the delivery time of the food without a significant loss of quality can exceed an hour, whereas current solutions typically see a significant decrease in food quality in less than 30 minutes.

[0108] III. System

[0109] Figure 8 A to Figure 8B shows an overview of the system. The system can have a first container 310 and a second container 330 in communication with the environment controller 120 and the software application 810. Alternatively, the system can have a container having a first or bottom bag 500 and a second or top bag 600 in communication with the environment controller 120. A series of hook and loop fasteners can be provided to secure the container in a closed configuration and to secure the bags to the interior surface of the container.

[0110] The software application 810 that interfaces with, monitors, and / or controls the system can be configured to perform various functions. For example, the software application can track and record delivery time and distance, and track and log internal temperature at various times throughout the delivery process (e.g., at the start, during delivery, and / or during the delivery process). A dashboard can be provided that allows the operator / owner to view the location, settings, and / or condition of the container. Settings can also be changed remotely via the application. Settings that can be changed or monitored can include, for example, on / off, temperature, moisture content, accelerometer readings, and battery life. In addition, the application can be configured to "sleep" (or hibernate) if there has been no activity for a period of time, or to "wake up" when motion is detected.

[0111] Figure 9 An example process flow 900 for managing the environment within an environmentally controlled container as disclosed herein is shown. Process flow 900 has three modes: heating mode 910, pre-loading maintenance mode 930, and post-loading maintenance mode 950. Heating mode 910 begins with preset values ​​for one or more of a temperature range and a humidity range 912. Once the device enters heating mode 910, the system is turned on 916. After the system is turned on 916, one or more of up to three heaters are turned on and the intake fan is engaged 918. One or more sensors begin reading one or more of the temperature and moisture (or humidity) within the device interior 914. When a preset target temperature is reached or a temperature within a preset range is reached, the intake fan and one or more of up to three heaters are turned off or disconnected 920. Once the system is disconnected, the system can transition to pre-loading maintenance mode 930. During pre-loading maintenance mode, one or more sensors monitor one or more of the temperature and moisture within the device interior 934. If the temperature exceeds the maximum temperature of the preset target temperature range 932, one or more of the internal heaters are turned off and / or adjusted to a lower temperature. If the temperature drops below the lowest temperature of the preset target temperature range 936 , one or more of the interior heaters are turned on and / or adjusted to a higher temperature.

[0112] Once the pre-load maintenance conditions 930 are met, the system can proceed to the post-load maintenance mode 950. During the post-load maintenance mode 950, the food (e.g., pizza) is loaded into the interior of the device 954 and a timer is started. During the post-load maintenance mode 950, one or more sensors monitor one or more of the temperature and humidity 956 within the interior of the device. If the temperature exceeds the maximum temperature of the preset target temperature range 952, one or more of the internal heaters are turned off and / or the one or more internal heaters are adjusted to a lower temperature. If the temperature drops below the minimum temperature of the preset target temperature range 958, one or more of the internal heaters are turned on and / or the one or more internal heaters are adjusted to a higher temperature. The process of monitoring and engaging and / or adjusting one or more heaters and fans continues to maintain the temperature and humidity within the corresponding ranges until the delivery is completed.

[0113] Figures 10A-10G An exemplary power tree (power architecture diagram) suitable for use with the disclosed apparatus is shown. The exemplary power tree shows various components (including exemplary component numbers) and includes: a power adapter, a panel-mount power adapter connector (receptacle), a board-mount power adapter connector (receptacle), a battery connector, and one or more of each of a fuse, a transistor, a register, an inductor, a capacitor, a switch, a connector, and a relay. The transistor may be a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET).

[0114] When participating in the systems and methods according to aspects of the disclosed subject matter, a user can participate in one or more usage sessions. A usage session can include a training session for the user.

[0115] Any of the disclosed methods may be implemented or partially implemented as computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media (such as one or more optical media disks), volatile memory components (such as DRAM or SRAM), or non-volatile memory components (such as flash memory or hard drives)) and executed on a computer (e.g., any device capable of performing computing functions, including computing hardware). As will be understood by those skilled in the art, computer-readable storage media do not include communication connections, such as modulated data signals. Any computer-executable instructions for implementing the disclosed techniques and any data created and used during the implementation of the disclosed embodiments may be stored on one or more computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media that do not include propagating signals). In addition, the computer-executable instructions may be, for example, a dedicated software application ("app") or part of a software application accessed or downloaded via a web browser or other software application (such as a remote computing application). Such software may be executed, for example, on a single local computer (e.g., any suitable commercially available computer) or in a network environment using one or more network computers (e.g., via the Internet, a wide area network, a local area network, a client-server network (such as a cloud computing network), or other such network).

[0116] Only selected aspects of a software-based implementation are described. Other details known in the art have been omitted. For example, it should be understood that the disclosed technology is not limited to any particular computer language or program. Similarly, the disclosed technology is not limited to any particular computer or hardware type. Certain details of suitable computers and hardware are well known and need not be elaborated in this disclosure.

[0117] It should also be understood that any functionality described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components, rather than by software. For example, but not limited to, illustrative types of hardware logic components that may be used include field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application specific standard products (ASSPs), systems on chips (SOCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and the like.

[0118] Furthermore, any software-based implementation (including, for example, computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform any disclosed method) can be uploaded, downloaded, or remotely accessed via any suitable communication means, including, for example, the Internet, the World Wide Web, an intranet, a software application, cables (including fiber optic cables), magnetic communications, electromagnetic communications (including RF, microwave, and infrared communications), electronic communications, or other such communications means.

[0119] The disclosed methods, devices, and systems should not be construed as limiting in any way. Instead, the present disclosure is directed to all novel and nonobvious features and aspects of the various disclosed embodiments, alone and in various combinations and subcombinations with one another. The disclosed methods, devices, and systems are not limited to any particular aspect or feature or combination thereof, nor do the disclosed embodiments require the presence of any particular advantage or resolve any problem.

[0120] Instructions can be stored (in object code form) in a "machine-readable medium" that is, in a suitable medium or media which are typically external to the computing device. The machine-readable medium can include a RAM memory, a ROM memory, a magnetic or optical disk, and / or other storage devices that are tangible and non-transitory. The term "machine-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to portable or fixed storage devices, including optical, magnetic, and / or semiconductor storage devices, as well as the Internet or other communication links or mediums that are suitable for transmitting software. The term "machine-readable medium" also includes any medium that is deemed non-transitory by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

[0121] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the disclosed systems and methods can be configured to send various messages when generating alerts. Messages include, for example, SMS and email.

[0122] IV. Examples

[0123] Overall Functional Description:

[0124] An insulated delivery package or environmentally controlled container as described herein is operable to monitor, regulate, and maintain the environmental conditions of food products (such as pizza and other prepared foods) using a combination of heaters, fans, sensors, insulation, and communication equipment. More particularly, the insulated delivery package or environmentally controlled container is operable to maintain the pizza with a crispy crust, melted cheese, and a fresh-out-of-the-oven condition. One or more sensors monitor the temperature and moisture content inside the insulated delivery package or environmentally controlled container. Based on continuous sensor readings, one or more heaters and one or more fans can be cycled on and off to maintain the temperature and humidity conditions within a preset range, where the preset range is selected based on the food to be transported within the insulated delivery package or environmentally controlled container.

[0125] As discussed above, if the humidity level exceeds the preset target range, the exhaust fan turns on and removes humid air from within the container of the environmentally controlled container until the humidity sensor reports that the humidity level within the environmentally controlled container has returned to an acceptable reading within the preset range.

[0126] If the temperature is below the preset temperature range, one or more of the heaters in the environmentally controlled container are turned on until the temperature sensor reports that the temperature level has returned to a temperature within the preset temperature range.

[0127] Operational Example 1 : Before Restaurant Opens: Stage 1

[0128] Storage and Charging: (a) Environmental controllers of an environmental control container can be stored and charged by plugging the controller into an AC power source; and (b) stacking one or more controllers in combination with an environmental control container.

[0129] Staging: (a) The environmental controller can be snapped or attached to the environmental control container and moved to a pre-processing or order preparation area within the food preparation area to prepare food for delivery in preparation for the first batch of delivery orders; the environmental control container can be inserted to preheat the interior of the environmental control container to a temperature within a preset range.

[0130] Heating: (a) The environmentally controlled container can be opened to heat the interior of the environmentally controlled container and enable environmental control; enter or modify target ranges for temperature and / or humidity.

[0131] Operational Example 2: Restaurant Open, Delivery Prep: Stage 2

[0132] The environmentally controlled containers are loaded with food to be delivered, and the timers associated with each environmentally controlled container are activated. For example, a kitchen staff member loads pizzas into the segmented environmentally controlled containers for delivery and presses a button to start the timer (e.g., an in-package time button). A quality / process check is performed to confirm that the environmentally controlled containers are heated and in the on state. Thereafter, verification is performed: (a) verifying that the heating function is on and the LCD / mobile app display shows the correct minimum and / or maximum temperature and / or minimum humidity; (b) verifying that the environmental controls are on and the LCD displays the humidity and / or moisture readings. Thereafter, (1) the environmentally controlled containers are handed over to the delivery person; (2) the environmentally controlled containers are loaded into the delivery vehicle; and / or the environmentally controlled containers are plugged into the vehicle's 12V power supply. In the case where the environmentally controlled containers are plugged in, an extension cord can be provided between the power supply and the environmentally controlled containers.

[0133] Operational Example 3: Delivery: Stage 3

[0134] The app displays the temperature, humidity, and time inside the environmentally controlled container, along with the container's GPS location. When the internal temperature of the environmentally controlled container drops below the lower end of the temperature range, the heaters engage. When the internal temperature exceeds the upper end of the temperature range, one or more of the heaters shuts off. When the internal moisture / humidity content of the environmentally controlled container falls below the lower end of the preset range, the exhaust fan shuts off. When the moisture content exceeds the upper end of the range, the exhaust fan engages and remains on until the lower end of the range is reached. The environmentally controlled container is delivered to the customer's door and is distributed similarly to current delivery packages.

[0135] Operational Example 4: After Delivery: Stage 4

[0136] The delivery driver closes the environmental control container and plugs the device into the vehicle's power source (if available). This process: (a) helps restore / maintain the battery charge on the environmental control container for the next delivery; and (b) upon returning to the restaurant, the driver unplugs the environmental control container and returns the device to the kitchen or restaurant staff for return to the pre-processing / preparation area or storage area. Regardless of whether the environmental control container is plugged into the car's 12V power source, the environmental control container can be plugged into an AC power outlet in the restaurant to charge and be ready for the upcoming order.

[0137] Operational Example 5: Before Restaurant Closes: Stage 5

[0138] Unscrew and / or separate the environmental controller from the environmental control container. Inspect the controller for dirt and damage and wipe / clean it. Place the controller in a storage area and plug it into AC power. The environmental control container can be stacked when not in use.

[0139] Food Delivery Example 1 : Use Case 1 : Two Hawaiian Pizza Delivered in Honolulu

[0140] Weather conditions: High temperatures and moderate humidity.

[0141] Challenge: Deliver two pizzas with high moisture content toppings (e.g., pineapple) to be delivered in a high humidity environment.

[0142] Estimated delivery time: 22 minutes

[0143] Actual delivery time: 35 minutes

[0144] Once the ECC has reached the target heating temperature, it maintains that temperature in the pre-conditioning area until the order comes out of the oven. Once ready, the two Hawaiian pizzas are packed into their boxes. The boxes are then placed into the ECC. A software application begins actively controlling the environment inside the ECC by monitoring sensor readings and controlling heaters, fans, and vents.

[0145] Targets have been set for both temperature and moisture content. For example, the temperature target is in a range between 70°C and 75°C. The humidity target is set with an upper limit of 15%. When the pizza is first loaded into the insulated bag, the internal temperature drops due to the total mass of the pizza and the fact that the air inside the box is colder than the pre-loaded internal environment of the environmentally controlled container. Therefore, all heaters, including the intake heater with fan, are put on high speed to restore the internal temperature to its target range. Additionally, since the pizza releases very high levels of moisture in the form of steam, the exhaust fan is run at high speed to expel the moisture as quickly as possible to prevent it from being absorbed by the pizza's crust. In this example, the environmentally controlled container is loaded into the vehicle, placed on the passenger seat, but is not plugged in because the charger in the delivery vehicle is broken.

[0146] The environmental control container is now in maintenance mode, with the container's heater and fan engaging or disengaging based on sensor readings from internal sensors to maintain temperature and moisture levels within a preset range. When the container is brought outside into high temperatures, the cooling rate inside the insulation pack decreases, causing the heater to engage less frequently. Due to the relatively high humidity outside, combined with the two high-moisture pizzas in the container, the exhaust fan runs more frequently and at a higher speed to keep up with the high moisture levels. Because the exhaust fan runs at a higher speed and more frequently, the container loses more heat and falls outside the temperature range. Therefore, despite the high outside temperature, the heater remains engaged to compensate for the heat loss. This process of exhausting moisture and heating the container, based on the readings, repeats until the pizzas are removed from the container and delivered. Unexpected traffic caused the delivery to take 13 minutes longer than expected, which was not a problem and did not negatively impact food quality, as the lithium-ion powered container maintained temperature and humidity conditions within the desired range for over an hour after being unplugged. Once the delivery was complete, the container was closed and placed back in the vehicle for the return trip to the pizzeria. Upon return, the environmentally controlled container is plugged in to recharge for the next delivery.

[0147] Food Delivery Example 2: Large Mushroom Pizza Delivered in Fargo, North Dakota During Winter

[0148] Weather conditions in Fargo, North Dakota: Subzero temperatures (20F) with very low humidity. Challenge: Deliver a thin-crust pizza with mushrooms (without much mass to maintain heat).

[0149] The environmentally controlled container has reached the target heating temperature and maintains that temperature in the pre-conditioning area until the order comes out of the oven. The pizzas are then packed into boxes, which are then placed into the environmentally controlled container. A software application begins actively controlling the environment within the environmentally controlled container. Targets for both temperature and moisture content have been set.

[0150] The temperature target is in the range between 75C to 80C.

[0151] The humidity target is an upper limit of 20%.

[0152] The environmental control container is loaded into the vehicle, placed on the passenger seat, and plugged into the car's 12V power supply. Now, in maintenance mode, the environmental control container's heater and fan engage or disengage based on readings from internal sensors, maintaining the temperature and moisture levels within the environmental control container within range. When the environmental control container is taken outside into subzero temperatures, the cooling rate inside the environmental control container increases, so the heater engages more frequently. Due to the relatively low humidity outside, the exhaust fan engages less frequently and at a lower speed to remove moisture as needed. Despite the exhaust fan operating at a lower speed and frequency, the environmental control container loses heat at a high rate due to the subzero conditions outside and falls outside the temperature range. Therefore, the heater (including the intake heater and fan) engages to compensate for the heat loss. This process of removing moisture (i.e., removing moisture via the exhaust fan) and heating the environmental control container is repeated based on sensor readings until the pizza is removed from the environmental control container and delivery is complete. Once delivery is complete, the environmental control container is closed and returned to the vehicle, where it is replugged for the return trip to the pizzeria. Once returned, the environmentally controlled container is sent directly to the pre-processing location, fully charged and ready for another delivery.

[0153] Food Delivery Example 3: Two Italian Sausage Pizza Delivered in Palm Beach, Florida

[0154] Weather conditions: Low 90s with tropical thunderstorms.

[0155] Challenge: Maintaining optimal moisture levels in the environmentally controlled container despite near-100% humidity and rain. The environmentally controlled container reaches the target heating temperature and maintains that temperature in the pre-conditioning area until the order comes out of the oven. The pizzas are packed into their boxes and then into the environmentally controlled container.

[0156] Software applications are beginning to actively control the environment inside the container.

[0157] Targets have been set for both temperature and moisture content.

[0158] The temperature target is in the range between 70C to 75C.

[0159] The humidity target has an upper limit of 10%.

[0160] The environmental control container is loaded into the vehicle, placed on the passenger seat, and plugged into the car's 12V power supply. Now, in maintenance mode, the heaters and fans engage or disengage based on readings from internal sensors, maintaining temperature and moisture levels within preset ranges. When the environmental control container is taken outside during a tropical storm, the extremely high humidity causes the exhaust fans to turn on at maximum speed and remain running, pausing only briefly when the internal moisture content drops below the target range. Because the exhaust fans are running almost constantly, the environmental control container loses significant heat even when the outside temperature is above 90°F. The internal air temperature needs to be around 160°F+. Therefore, all three heaters (including the intake fan) remain running, pausing only briefly when the temperature inside the environmental control container reaches its target range. While the intake fans draw in high-humidity air, this effect is mitigated by passing the air through the heaters. Using the heaters in conjunction with the intake fans makes it more difficult for moisture to settle in the crust before being expelled by the exhaust fans. This process of expelling moisture (i.e., removing moisture) and heating the environmental control container is repeated based on sensor readings until the pizza is removed from the environmental control container and delivered. After the delivery is complete, the environmental container is closed and placed back in the vehicle, and plugged back in for the return trip to the pizzeria. Upon return, the environmental container is taken directly to the pre-processing location, as it is fully charged again.

[0161] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Without departing from the present invention, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that many variations, changes, and replacements may be employed. It should be understood that in practicing the present invention, various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be employed. Any claims presented are intended to limit the scope of the present invention and are intended to encompass methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A portable container comprising: a housing having an openable section operable to move between an open position and a closed position and a plurality of exterior and interior surfaces; an environmental control module securable to a first side surface of the portable container, the environmental control module operable to communicate with one or more environmental controllers and one or more environmental sensors; a first bag securable to a first interior surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the housing, wherein the first bag has a first bag interior chamber accessible via a first bag opening; Intake fan; as well as A power supply is in communication with the environmental control module.

2. The portable container according to claim 1, wherein: The environmental control module is operable to communicate one or more sensed environmental conditions and to adjust the one or more environmental controllers in response to the one or more sensed environmental conditions.

3. The portable container according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more environmental sensors are selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, an air quality sensor, and a smoke sensor.

4. The portable container according to claim 3, wherein: Any of the one or more environmental sensors, when provided, may be provided in a quantity of more than one.

5. The portable container according to claim 3, wherein: The one or more environmental sensors are positioned within the portable container at a location remote from the one or more environmental controllers.

6. The portable container of claim 1, further comprising one or more GPS sensors and gravity acceleration sensors.

7. The portable container of claim 1 further comprising a communication device to transmit information from one or more sensors and to receive environmental control instructions in response to the transmitted sensor information.

8. The portable container of claim 1 , further comprising a second bag securable to a second inner surface of the plurality of inner surfaces of the housing, wherein The second bag has a second bag interior chamber accessible via a second bag opening.

9. The portable container of claim 8, further comprising at least one heating element positionable within the first bag interior chamber or the second bag interior chamber.

10. The portable container of claim 1, further comprising one or more exhaust fans.

11. The portable container according to claim 1, wherein: The intake fan has a heater element.

12. The portable container of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a flange, a flap, and a ridge extending from an interior surface of the container.

13. The portable container according to claim 12, wherein: A hook and loop flap strip is adhered to one surface of at least one of the flanges, flaps, or ridges.

14. The portable container of claim 13, further comprising a shelf.

15. The portable container according to claim 14, wherein: The shelf has a hook and loop fastener strip adhered to a surface of the shelf, the hook and loop fastener strip being operable to engage the hook and loop fastener flap strip.

16. A portable container comprising: a housing having an openable section operable to change from an open position to a closed position and a plurality of inner and outer surfaces; an environmental control module securable to the first side surface of the portable container, wherein the environmental control module is in communication with one or more environmental controllers and one or more environmental sensors; a first bag securable to a first interior surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the housing, wherein the first bag has a first bag interior chamber accessible via a first bag opening; a second bag securable to a second interior surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the housing; and A power supply is in communication with the environmental control module.

17. The portable container according to claim 16, wherein: The environmental control module is operable to communicate one or more sensed environmental conditions and adjust one or more environmental controllers.

18. The portable container according to claim 16, wherein: The one or more environmental sensors are selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, an air quality sensor, and a smoke sensor.

19. The portable container according to claim 18, wherein: Any of the environmental sensors, when provided, may be provided in more than one quantity.

20. The portable container of claim 18, wherein: The one or more environmental sensors are positioned within the portable container at a location remote from the one or more environmental controllers.

21. The portable container of claim 16, further comprising one or more of a GPS sensor and a gravity acceleration sensor.

22. The portable container of claim 16, further comprising a communication device to transmit information from one or more sensors and to receive environmental control instructions in response to the transmitted sensor information.

23. The portable container of claim 16, wherein: The second bag has a second bag interior chamber accessible via a second bag opening.

24. The portable container of claim 23, further comprising at least one heating element positionable within the first bag interior chamber or the second bag interior chamber.

25. The portable container of claim 16, further comprising one or more exhaust fans.

26. The portable container of claim 16, further comprising an intake fan.

27. The portable container according to claim 26, wherein: The intake fan has a heater element.

28. The portable container of claim 16, wherein: A hook and loop flap strip is adhered to one surface of at least one of the flanges, flaps, or ridges.

29. The portable container of claim 28, further comprising a shelf.

30. The portable container of claim 29, wherein: The shelf has a hook and loop fastener strip adhered to a surface of the shelf, the hook and loop fastener strip being operable to engage the hook and loop flap strip.

31. A method of transportation, comprising: A portable container is provided, the portable container having: a housing having an openable section and a plurality of interior surfaces, the openable section being operable to change between an open position and a closed position; an environmental control module securable to a first side surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the portable container, the environmental control module in communication with one or more environmental controllers and one or more environmental sensors; at least one of a first bag securable to a first interior side surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the housing, wherein the first bag has a first bag interior chamber accessible via a first bag opening, and a second bag securable to a second interior side surface of the plurality of interior surfaces of the housing; and a power source in communication with the environmental control module; opening the portable container; placing the food container in the portable container for transport; closing the portable container; configuring the environmental control module to maintain an environment within the portable container based on the identified food within the food container; and The portable container is transported.

32. The method of transporting according to claim 31, further comprising determining the GPS location of the portable container.

33. The method of transporting according to claim 31, further comprising determining the acceleration due to gravity of the portable container.

34. The method of transporting according to claim 31, further comprising the steps of: A determination is made as to whether the portable container maintains one or more environmental conditions during transport, and the food container is dispensed if the portable container maintains the one or more environmental conditions.

35. The method of transporting according to claim 31, further comprising the steps of: A determination is made as to whether the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transport, and the food container is dispensed if the portable container is not subjected to any gravitational acceleration.

36. The method of transporting according to claim 31, further comprising the steps of: Determining whether the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration during transportation, and if the portable container is subjected to any gravitational acceleration, determining whether the gravitational acceleration is within a predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations, and dispensing the food container when the gravitational acceleration is within the predetermined range of allowable gravitational accelerations.

37. A portable container comprising: a first soft-sided shell having an openable section operable to change from an open position to a closed position and a plurality of inner and outer surfaces; a second hard-sided shell having an openable section, the second hard-sided shell being sized to fit within the first soft-sided shell; an environmental control module, wherein the environmental control module is in communication with one or more environmental controllers and one or more environmental sensors; and A power supply is in communication with the environmental control module.

Images