A novel system for shipping cryogenically frozen materials.

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to shipping cases, dewars, and systems for transporting frozen materials. More specifically, the embodiments described herein include and / or enable, among other features, a dewar lid protection system, data logging enablement, controlled coolant leakage, efficient stacking options during transport, and spill protection to ensure safe and effective transport of frozen samples and materials. Exemplary uses of the systems described herein include reliable shipping for frozen materials in specific environmental conditions that can be tracked and verified.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 374,346, filed September 1, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional cryogenic dewars for shipping frozen samples and materials have long-standing drawbacks that have yet to be corrected. For example, conventional cryogenic dewars lack features to protect the lid of the cryogenic dewar from cracking during transport if a weight is placed on the cryogenic dewar and / or if the dewar is dropped on top of it. Additionally, conventional cryogenic dewars lack an elaborate lid that can safely accommodate a data logging system during transport. Conventional cryogenic dewars also lack features to prevent uncontrolled leakage of coolant (such as liquid nitrogen) during transport and / or storage of frozen samples and materials. Conventional cryogenic dewars are not appropriately sized for cell therapy products.

[0003] Conventional shipping containers or cases for transporting cryogenic dewars also have long-standing drawbacks. For example, such conventional shipping containers or cases cannot be reliably stacked during storage or transport. Conventional shipping containers or cases also require cumbersome and heavy foam inserts to protect the cryogenic dewars during transport. Such inserts are heavy, thick, and not precisely aligned, increasing shipping costs and ineffectively protecting the cryogenic dewars from vibration and shock. Conventional shipping containers or cases also include flimsy closure mechanisms, such as clamps, that prevent the shipping container from securely closing to prevent the cryogenic dewars from spilling from the shipping container during transport. These features are traditionally assembled by the end user from commercially available, pre-fabricated products. Conventional shipping containers lack the appropriate document holders and label placards required for shipping.

[0004] What is needed is a cryogenic dewar and shipping container that addresses the above-mentioned shortcomings and includes, among other things, a dewar lid protection system, data logging enablement, controlled coolant leakage, efficient stacking options during transport, and spill protection to ensure safe and effective transport of frozen samples and materials. The system described herein enables reliable shipping options for frozen materials in specific environmental conditions that can be tracked and verified. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Briefly and generally, the present disclosure relates to a shipping case. Such a shipping case may include a lined compartment having a bottom, one or more walls extending from the bottom, the bottom and the walls forming a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the bottom, and an impact-absorbing lining disposed on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic shipping container. Such a shipping container may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage the lined compartment such that when the lid engages the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment. In such embodiments, the impact-absorbing lining is up to 1.75 inches thick, or between 1 and 1.75 inches thick, or approximately 1 inch thick.

[0006] The present disclosure also relates to a cryogenic dewar for shipping frozen material. Such a cryogenic dewar may include an insulated housing having a cavity for containing the frozen material and a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated housing. Such a cryogenic dewar may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that the lid forms a seal over the insulated housing when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing. In such an embodiment, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing, and the lid is configured to reversibly house a condition monitoring system.

[0007] The present disclosure also relates to a system for transporting frozen material. The system may include a cryogenic dewar for shipping the frozen material, the cryogenic dewar comprising an insulated housing having: The system includes an insulated housing including a cavity for containing a frozen material and a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on a top surface and an exterior surface of the insulated housing, and a dewar lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that the dewar lid forms a seal over the insulated housing when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing. The system can also include a shipping case configured to house the cryogenic dewar in use, the shipping case including a lined compartment including a bottom and one or more walls extending from the bottom, the bottom and the one or more walls forming a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being disposed opposite the bottom, and an impact-absorbing lining disposed on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic dewar, and the lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment such that the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment when the lid engages with the lined compartment. In such a system, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the dewar lid when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing, the dewar lid is configured to reversibly house the condition monitoring system, and the shock absorbing lining is up to 1.75 inches thick, or 1 to 1.75 inches thick, or approximately 1 inch thick.

[0008] In various embodiments, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically beyond the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0009] Other aspects and advantages of the disclosed technology described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example only, the principles of the technology. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] The teachings claimed and / or described herein will be further explained with reference to exemplary embodiments, which will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, which are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and in which like reference numerals represent like structure throughout the several views of the drawings.

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for transporting frozen material, according to various embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a cryogenic dewar according to various embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the cryogenic dewar of FIG. 2 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cryogenic dewar of FIG. 2 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a shipping case according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] 6A-6C are top perspective and side cross-sectional views of the shipping case of FIG. 5 including a cryogenic dewar, according to various embodiments. [Figure 7] 7A-7C are side and cross-sectional views of the shipping case and cryogenic dewar of FIG. 6 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 8] 1A-1C are diagrams of multiple systems for transporting frozen material stacked on top of each other according to various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present disclosure addresses the need for a system for safely and effectively transporting cryogenically frozen materials. More specifically, the present disclosure addresses the need for a cryogenic dewar that includes features for protecting its lid during transport, an ingenious lid that can safely house a data logging system during transport, and features for preventing uncontrolled leakage of coolant (such as liquid nitrogen) during transport. The present disclosure also addresses the need for a shipping container that can be securely stacked and palletized during storage or transport without requiring cumbersome and heavy foam inserts to protect the cryogenic dewar during transport, and a reliable closure means for ensuring the shipping container is closed to prevent the cryogenic dewar from spilling from the shipping container during transport. The present disclosure addresses the need for document holders and placards required for transport on the shipping container.

[0013] It will be understood that the descriptions herein are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In this application, the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0014] All documents or portions of documents cited in this application, including but not limited to patents, patent applications, articles, books, and papers, are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any purpose. As used above and throughout the description, the following abbreviations shall be understood to have the following meanings unless otherwise indicated:

[0015] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0016] As used herein, unless otherwise stated or clear from context, the term "or" is understood to be inclusive and encompasses both "or" and "and."

[0017] The term "and / or" as used herein should be interpreted as a specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components, regardless of the presence or absence of the other. Thus, the term "and / or" used herein in phrases such as "A and / or B" is intended to include A and B, A or B, A (alone), and B (alone). Similarly, the term "and / or" used in phrases such as "A, B, and / or C" is intended to encompass each of the following aspects: A, B, and C, A, B, or C, A or C, A or B, B or C, A and C, A and B, B and C, A (alone), B (alone), and C (alone).

[0018] As used herein, the terms "for example" and "i.e." are used merely as examples and are not intended to be limiting, and should not be construed as referring only to the items explicitly listed herein.

[0019] Terms such as "more than," "at least," and "greater than," e.g., "at least one," are used to mean, but are not limited to, at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 12 4, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 6, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139 , 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, or 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, or any value greater than the recited value. Any greater number or fraction in between is also included.

[0020] Conversely, the term "less than or equal to" includes every value less than the stated value, as well as any smaller number or fraction therebetween.

[0021] Terms such as "plurality," "at least two," "two or more," and "at least a second" are intended to mean, but are not limited to, at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63 , 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 5, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 1 This is understood to include 38, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, or 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, or more, as well as any larger numbers or fractions therebetween.

[0022] As used herein, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the term "about" refers to a value or composition that is within an acceptable error range of a particular value or composition as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value or composition is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, "about" or "approximately" can mean within one standard deviation or two standard deviations or more, according to common practice in the art. "About" or "approximately" can mean a range of up to 10% (i.e., ±10%). Thus, "about" can be understood to be 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, 0.01%, or 0.001% greater or less than the specified value. When a particular value or composition is presented in this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the meaning of "about" or "approximately" should be assumed to be within an acceptable error range of that particular value or composition.

[0023] Units, prefixes and symbols used herein are presented using the format accepted by the Systeme International de Unites (SI). Numerical ranges are inclusive of the numbers defining the range.

[0024] As used throughout, the terms "shipping case" and "shipping container" are used interchangeably and refer to a sealable container for containing and transporting a cryogenic dewar.

[0025] As used throughout, the terms "cryogenically frozen," "frozen material," or "frozen sample" are used interchangeably and refer to material that is stored and / or transported in a frozen or near-frozen state at or below -150° C. Non-limiting examples of materials include biological samples from donors, biological reagents, biological compositions, etc.

[0026] As used throughout, the terms "shock absorbing lining" or "shock absorbing material" are used interchangeably and refer to a material that reduces the threshold acceleration and velocity of an item subjected to shock and / or vibration impact. The material also has rebound properties to absorb multiple shock and vibration events. One example can be made from nanotechnology foam that is at least 1 inch thick. In other embodiments, the nanotechnology foam is approximately 1-2.25 inches thick. In other embodiments, the nanotechnology foam is 1-1.75 inches thick.

[0027] As used throughout, the term "data logger" refers to a system that monitors and records temperature data and stores it locally. Non-limiting examples of data loggers include HOBO devices. (Onset Computer Corporation, MA, USA)

[0028] As used throughout, the term "cryogenic dewar" refers to a specialized type of vacuum flask used to store cryogens or refrigerants (such as liquid nitrogen or liquid helium) whose boiling points are much lower than room temperature. Cryogenic dewars can take several different forms, including open buckets, flasks with loosely fitting stoppers, and self-pressurizing tanks. All dewars have walls constructed from two or more layers, with a high vacuum maintained between them. This provides excellent insulation between the dewar's interior and exterior, reducing the rate at which the contents boil and evaporate. Precautions are taken in dewar design to safely manage the gases released as the liquid slowly boils. The simplest dewars allow the gas to escape through an open top or through a loosely fitted stopper to prevent the risk of explosion. More sophisticated dewars trap gas above the liquid and hold it at high pressure. This raises the liquid's boiling point, allowing it to be stored for long periods of time. Excess vapor pressure is automatically released via a safety valve. In embodiments throughout, the cryogenic dewar is configured to allow for the transport and / or storage of frozen materials or samples.

[0029] As used throughout, the term "condition monitoring system" refers to a system that monitors environmental conditions such as internal and external temperature, tilt, GPS location, battery life, pressure, humidity, light exposure, shock, and vibration, with the ability to transmit data to a web portal in real time. A non-limiting example of a condition monitoring system is the Sendum PT300D / 4G. (Sendum Wireless Corp. BC, California)

[0030] The terms "hydrophobic fleece-covered steam plug" and "steam plug at least partially covered by hydrophobic fleece" are used interchangeably and refer to the specific type of steam plug used. Dry steam shippers may use steam plugs typically made of EPS. Hydrophobic fleece-covered steam plugs cover EPS with hydrophobic fleece to slow the escape of nitrogen vapor and prevent freezing and icing that can form in the pressure vessel. In various embodiments, the steam plug is wrapped in hydrophobic fleece. Non-limiting examples of hydrophobic fleece include spun high-density polypropylene that is spun into a fleece. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece is configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor (or other cooling gas) to escape from the insulated housing of the cryogenic dewar at a controlled rate.

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0032] In various embodiments, the system may include a shipping case. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include a lined compartment. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include a bottom. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include one or more walls extending from the bottom. In various embodiments, the bottom and the walls may form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening may be located opposite the bottom. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include an impact-absorbing lining located on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic shipping container. In various embodiments, the shipping container may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage the lined compartment such that when the lid engages the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment. In various embodiments, the impact-absorbing lining may be up to 1.75 inches thick, or between 1 and 1.75 inches thick, or approximately 1 inch thick.

[0033] In various embodiments, the shipping case may further include a plurality of draw latches. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of draw latches may include a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the lid. In various embodiments, the plurality of draw latches may be configured to reversibly couple the lid to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

[0034] In various embodiments, the lined compartment may further define a plurality of openings, each of which may be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

[0035] In various embodiments, the lid may further include ridge structures disposed on an outer surface and a top surface of the lid. In various embodiments, the base may further define slots disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the base. In various embodiments, the slots may be configured to receive the ridge structures, thereby allowing a pair of shipping cases to be stacked on top of each other, thereby securing a first container including the slots onto a second shipping container including the ridge structures.

[0036] In various embodiments, the bottom may be configured to reversibly attach to a pallet for ease of transport.

[0037] In various embodiments, the shipping case may further include a label plaque attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

[0038] In various embodiments, the impact absorbing lining may form a plurality of recessed vent holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

[0039] In various embodiments, the shock absorbing layer can form a slot configured to reversibly secure the data logger.

[0040] In various embodiments, the system may include a cryogenic dewar for shipping the frozen material. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar may include an insulated housing. In various embodiments, the insulated housing may include a cavity for containing the frozen material and a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated housing. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar may also include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that the lid forms a seal over the insulated housing when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing. In such embodiments, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing, and the lid is configured to reversibly house the condition monitoring system.

[0041] In various embodiments, the plurality of load-bearing handles may extend vertically beyond the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0042] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar for shipping frozen materials described above further includes a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to the interior surface of the cavity.

[0043] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar for shipping frozen material further includes a steam plug at least partially wrapped with a hydrophobic fleece over the steam plug, hi various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece may be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated housing of the cryogenic dewar at a reduced rate.

[0044] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar may include an insulated housing. In various embodiments, the insulated housing may include a cavity for containing frozen material and a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated housing. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar may include a dewar lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing, the dewar lid forms a seal over the insulated housing.

[0045] In various embodiments, the system may also include a shipping case configured to house the cryogenic dewar. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include a lined compartment. In various embodiments, the lined compartment may include a bottom and one or more walls extending from the bottom, where the bottom and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening may be located opposite the bottom. In various embodiments, an impact-absorbing lining may be located on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic dewar. In various embodiments, the shipping case may include a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment such that the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment when the lid engages with the lined compartment. In such a system, the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the dewar lid when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing. In various embodiments, the dewar lid may be configured to house a condition monitoring system. In various embodiments, the impact absorbing lining can be up to 1.75 inches thick, or between 1 and 1.75 inches thick, or about 1 inch thick.

[0046] In various embodiments, the plurality of load-bearing handles may extend vertically beyond the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing.

[0047] In various embodiments, the system for transporting frozen material described above may further include a temperature probe locking system reversibly coupled to the interior surface of the cavity.

[0048] In various embodiments, the system for transporting frozen material may further include a vapor plug at least partially covered with a hydrophobic fleece on the vapor plug, hi various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece may be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated housing of the cryogenic dewar at a reduced rate.

[0049] In various embodiments, the system for transporting frozen material described above may further include a plurality of draw latches. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of draw latches may include a first member disposed on the lined compartment and a corresponding second member disposed on the lid. In various embodiments, the plurality of draw latches may be configured to reversibly couple the lid to the lined compartment when each of the first members is engaged with the corresponding second member.

[0050] In various embodiments, the lined compartment may define a plurality of openings, each of which may be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches.

[0051] In various embodiments, the lid of the shipping container may further include ridge structures disposed on the exterior and top surfaces of the lid. In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping container may further define slots disposed on the exterior and bottom surfaces of the bottom. In various embodiments, the slots may be configured to receive the ridge structures, thereby allowing a pair of shipping cases to be stacked on top of each other, thereby securing a first container including the slots onto a second shipping container including the ridge structures.

[0052] In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping container may be configured to reversibly attach to a pallet for ease of transport.

[0053] In various embodiments, the shipping container may further include a label plaque attached to an exterior surface of at least one of the one or more walls.

[0054] In various embodiments, the shock-absorbing lining of the shipping container may form a plurality of recessed vent holes to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container.

[0055] In various embodiments, the shock-absorbing layer of the shipping container forms a slot configured to reversibly secure the data logger.

[0056] Various embodiments are described in further detail in the description that follows.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 1-8 , various embodiments of the present disclosure include a system 101 for transporting frozen material. In various embodiments, the system 101 can include a cryogenic dewar 103 for shipping the frozen material and a shipping case 105 configured to house the cryogenic dewar 103. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 can include an insulated housing 107 that can form a cavity 109 for housing the frozen material. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 can include a plurality of load-bearing handles 111 disposed on the top and exterior surfaces of the insulated housing 107. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 can also include a dewar lid 113 configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing 107 such that the dewar lid 113 forms a seal on the insulated housing 107 when the dewar lid 113 is engaged with the insulated housing 107. In various embodiments, the load-bearing handle 111 can extend vertically at least as high as the dewar lid 113 when the lid 113 is engaged with the insulated housing 107. In various embodiments, the dewar lid 113 may be configured to house a condition monitoring system 121 .

[0058] In various embodiments, the shipping case 105 of the system 101 may be configured to house the cryogenic dewar 103 during use. In various embodiments, the shipping case 105 may include a lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, the lined compartment 115 may be made of a bottom and one or more walls extending from the bottom, where the bottom and the one or more walls form a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity. In various embodiments, the opening may be located opposite the bottom. In various embodiments, an impact absorbing lining 117 may be located on the interior surface of the one or more walls and may be configured to receive the cryogenic dewar 103. In the shipping case 105 of FIGS. 1 and 5-8, the impact absorbing lining 117 covers most (if not all) of the cavity of the lined compartment 115, according to various embodiments. The shipping case 105 may also include a lid 119 configured to reversibly engage the lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, the lid 119 may form a seal over the lined compartment 115 when the lid 119 is engaged with the lined compartment 115. In various embodiments, the shock absorbing lining 117 may be up to 2 inches thick. In various embodiments, the shock absorbing lining 117 of FIGS. 1, 6, and 7 may be at least 1 inch thick and may be made of nanotechnology foam. More specifically, according to various embodiments, the shock absorbing lining may be approximately 1 inch thick along the walls and at least 1 inch thick at the corners. In various embodiments, the nanotechnology foam may be integrated into the shipping case 105 to encase the cryogenic dewar 103 during transport. In various embodiments, the nanotechnology foam can dissipate impact energy during travel and have higher shock absorption properties than traditional foam inserts. In various embodiments, the use of this new nanotechnology foam may allow for the use of thinner foam layers during transport, which may result in reduced weight and reduced shipping costs.In various embodiments, the nanotechnology foam layer can be reduced to 2 inches to 1 inch, thus allowing for a smaller overall shipping case 105 container if desired. Other non-limiting examples of shock absorbing materials include polyethylene and polypropylene foams approximately 2 inches thick.

[0059] 2-7 illustrate additional features of the cryogenic dewar 103 according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the load-bearing handles 111 may extend vertically beyond the dewar lid 113 when the dewar lid 113 is engaged with the insulated housing 107. In various embodiments, the load-bearing handles 111 may extend to at least the height of the dewar lid 113 when engaged. In various embodiments, the load-bearing handles 111 may be positioned to absorb a load if such a load is placed on top of the shipping case 105. Thus, according to various embodiments, the load-bearing handles 111 may have a particular height to provide additional protection to the lid 113 and the top of the cryogenic dewar 103.

[0060] In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 can also include a temperature probe locking system 123 reversibly coupled to the interior surface of the dewar cavity 109. FIG. 4 illustrates the temperature probe locking system 123 as a screwless, easy-to-use probe locking mechanism, according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the cryogenic dewar 103 can also include a conventional EPS steam plug 125 covered with a hydrophobic fleece. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic fleece can be configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from the insulated housing 107 at a reduced rate while releasing pressure from inside the dewar. As seen in FIG. 4 and described herein, the dewar lid 113, according to various embodiments, can be configured to reversibly house a condition monitoring system 121. A non-limiting example of a condition monitoring system includes a Sendum PT300D with a Bluetooth-enabled temperature probe. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the cryogenic dewar also includes a disk temperature probe 126, according to various embodiments.

[0061] 5-8 illustrate additional features of the shipping case 105 of the system 101, according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the shipping case 105 may also include a plurality of draw latches 127. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of draw latches 127 has a first member 129 disposed on the lined compartment 115 and a corresponding second member 131 disposed on the shipping case lid 119. In various embodiments, the plurality of draw latches 127 may be configured to reversibly couple the shipping case lid 119 to the lined compartment 115 when each of the first members 129 is engaged with the corresponding second member 131. In various embodiments, the draw latches 127 may be separate from fastening mechanisms previously used on shipping containers. Previously, toggle clamps have traditionally been used. Such clamps may become dislodged during transport due to the size of the shipping container. Here, the draw latches 127 absorb vibrations and do not unlock, thereby solving this unmet need.

[0062] In various embodiments, the lined compartment 115 of the shipping case 105 may define a plurality of openings 132. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of openings 132 may be configured to receive a fastener for securing the plurality of draw latches 127. Referring to FIGS. 5-8, according to various embodiments, the plurality of openings 132 may be molded-in through-holes that allow the draw latches 127 to be sealed with a cable tie. Further non-limiting examples of acceptable ties include zip ties, padlocks, steel wire, serialized seals, etc.

[0063] In various embodiments, the shipping case lid 119 may include a plurality of ridge structures 133 disposed on the exterior and top surfaces of the shipping case lid 119. In various embodiments, the bottom of the shipping case 105 forms a plurality of slots (not shown) disposed on the exterior and bottom surfaces of the bottom of the shipping case 105. As shown in FIG. 8 , according to various embodiments, the plurality of slots may be configured to receive a plurality of ridge structures 133, thereby allowing a pair of shipping cases to be stacked on top of each other, such that a first shipping container having a plurality of slots can be secured over a second shipping container having a plurality of ridge structures 133. The bottom of the shipping case 105 may also be configured to reversibly couple to a pallet to facilitate transport.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 6 , according to various embodiments, the shipping case 105 can also include a label plaque 135 attached to its exterior surface. Traditionally, labels may be glued to the shipping container and therefore subject to damage or loss during transport. In various embodiments, the label plaque 135 described herein may include a pocket built into the shipping case 105 to contain the label. Such a feature and fixed location also creates uniformity in label placement.

[0065] In various embodiments, the shock-absorbing lining 117 of the shipping case 105 forms a plurality of recessed vent holes 137 to facilitate insertion and removal of the cryogenic shipping container 103. In various embodiments, the shock-absorbing layer also forms a plurality of slots 139 configured to reversibly secure data loggers or other items for shipment. As seen in FIG. 6, an exemplary slot 139 may include a cylindrical cutout designed to accommodate rolled documents during transport. Also, as seen in FIG. 6, the shipping case 105 also includes at least one D-ring 141 for receiving a stacking strap to facilitate stacking of the shipping cases, according to various embodiments.

[0066] 7, the shipping case 105 may also include a removable bottom foam piece that can be used to mount a lid data logger 143, according to various embodiments. The shipping case may also include a plurality of recessed vents 145 to facilitate removal of the cryogenic dewar 103, according to various embodiments.

[0067] 8, the shipping case 105, according to various embodiments, can be designed to be stackable with other similar shipping cases 105 for ease of transportation and shipping. In various embodiments, such stackable applications can be mediated by a combination of at least the following characteristics of the shipping case 105: the square / rectangular design of the shipping case 105, the flat lid 119, and the multiple ridge structures 133 on the lid 119 and their corresponding slots on the bottom of adjacent shipping cases 105 for receiving / fitting into the ridge structures 133. Previous liquid nitrogen shipping containers have rounded tops that make stacking impossible.

[0068] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Accordingly, the foregoing embodiments should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not limiting of the subject matter described herein.

Claims

1. A shipping case comprising: A lined compartment, The bottom and one or more walls extending from the bottom, the bottom and the plurality of walls forming a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being located on an opposite side of the bottom; an impact absorbing lining disposed on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive a cryogenic shipping container; a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment such that when the lid engages the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment; The shipping case, wherein the impact absorbing lining is up to 1.75 inches thick, or 1 to 1.75 inches thick, or about 1 inch thick.

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

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

4. the lid further comprising a ridge structure disposed on an outer surface and an upper surface of the lid; the bottom further defines slots disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the bottom; 4. The shipping case of claim 3, wherein the slots are configured to receive the ridge structures, thereby allowing a pair of shipping cases to be stacked on top of each other, thereby securing a first container with the slots onto a second shipping container with the ridge structures.

5. 5. The shipping case of claim 4, wherein the bottom is configured to reversibly couple to a pallet for ease of transport.

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

7. 7. The shipping case of claim 6, wherein said shock absorbing lining defines a plurality of recessed vent holes for facilitating insertion and removal of said cryogenic shipping container.

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

9. 1. A cryogenic dewar for shipping frozen material, comprising: A thermally insulating housing, a cavity for containing the frozen material; a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated housing; a lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that the lid forms a seal over the insulated housing when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing; the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing; The cryogenic dewar, wherein the lid is configured to reversibly house a condition monitoring system.

10. 10. The cryogenic container of claim 9, wherein the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically beyond the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing.

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

12. 12. The cryogenic container of claim 11, further comprising a vapor plug at least partially covered with a hydrophobic fleece thereon, the hydrophobic fleece configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from an insulated housing of the cryogenic dewar at a reduced rate.

13. 1. A system for transporting frozen material, comprising: a cryogenic dewar for shipping the frozen material, A thermally insulating housing, a cavity for containing the frozen material; a plurality of load-bearing handles disposed on an upper surface and an outer surface of the insulated housing; a cryogenic dewar comprising a dewar lid configured to reversibly engage with the insulated housing such that the dewar lid forms a seal over the insulated housing when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing; a shipping case configured to house the cryogenic dewar when in use, the shipping case comprising: A lined compartment, The bottom and one or more walls extending from the bottom, the bottom and the one or more walls forming a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, the opening being located on an opposite side of the bottom; a lined compartment comprising: an impact absorbing lining disposed on an interior surface of the one or more walls and configured to receive the cryogenic dewar; a lid configured to reversibly engage with the lined compartment such that when the lid engages the lined compartment, the lid forms a seal over the lined compartment; the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically at least as high as the dewar lid when the dewar lid is engaged with the insulated housing; the dewar lid is configured to reversibly house a condition monitoring system; The system wherein the impact absorbing lining is up to 1.75 inches thick, or 1 to 1.75 inches thick, or about 1 inch thick.

14. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of load-bearing handles extend vertically beyond the lid when the lid is engaged with the insulated housing.

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

16. 16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a vapor plug at least partially covered with a hydrophobic fleece thereon, the hydrophobic fleece configured to allow liquid nitrogen vapor to escape from an insulated housing of the cryogenic dewar at a reduced rate.

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

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

19. the lid further comprises a ridge structure disposed on an outer surface and an upper surface of the lid; the bottom further defines slots disposed on an outer surface and a bottom surface of the bottom; 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the slots are configured to receive the ridge structures, thereby allowing a pair of shipping cases to be stacked on top of each other, thereby securing a first container with the slots onto a second shipping container with the ridge structures.

20. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the bottom is configured to reversibly couple to a pallet for ease of transportation.

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

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

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

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