Transport packaging device and method for temperature-controlled transport

Abstract

The present invention relates to a transport packaging device for temperature-controlled transportation. The transport packaging device (10) has a double-wall structure with an outer wall (11) and an inner wall (12) spaced apart from each other. An air gap (13) is provided between the outer wall (11) and the inner wall (12). Furthermore, the inner surface (14) of the outer wall (11) has an insulating layer (15), and / or the outer surface (16) of the inner wall (12) has an insulating layer (17). The present invention also relates to a temperature-controlled transportation method.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to transport packaging (or wrapping, hereinafter the same) for temperature-controlled transport (for transport under temperature control) and a transport packaging device / equipment for temperature-controlled transport (hereinafter simply referred to as "transport packaging device"). The transport packaging device of the present invention has a double-wall structure in that it has an outer wall and an inner wall spaced apart from each other. The present invention also relates to a temperature-controlled transportation method. [Background technology]

[0002] Known transport packaging and packaging equipment suffers from insufficient insulation, particularly with regard to physical leakage. This not only increases costs but also places limitations on the configuration of transport packaging during transport. For example, transport packaging for certain goods and products must be located in a specific location, configured in a specific way, and transported completely separate from other goods. This results in excessive transport times and the need for specialized, energy-intensive equipment. Furthermore, despite the availability of cooling equipment, cold chain breakdowns often occur. This can result in food spoilage or, in the case of pharmaceuticals, inadequate temperatures that can increase toxicity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Application No. 2011 / 051561A1 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a novel transport packaging (or wrapping) and a novel method for temperature-controlled transport of goods that allows for safe transport of goods, minimizes emissions, and allows for transport of goods without causing a breakdown in the cold chain. The transport packaging according to the present invention is characterized as set forth in claim 1, and the corresponding method features are set forth in claim 13. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show embodiments of the invention. [Figure 1a] FIG. 1a is a cross-sectional view showing a transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1b is a partially enlarged view showing a wall portion of the first embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1c is a partially enlarged view showing a wall portion of the transport packaging device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1d] FIG. 1d is a partially enlarged view showing a wall portion of a third embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2a shows a first embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the present invention, with the lid in an open state. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b shows a second embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the invention, with the lid in the closed position. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a partial exploded view showing the transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded cross-sectional view of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an outer wall portion of the transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 6a] FIG. 6a shows a model of a transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6b is a black and white diagram showing the transport packaging device of FIG. 6a. [Figure 7a] FIG. 7a shows a transport packaging device according to the present invention mounted on a scooter. [Figure 7b] FIG. 7b shows another embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the present invention. [Figure 8a] FIG. 8a shows a transport packaging device according to the invention which can be fitted for use as furniture at the transport location. [Figure 8b] FIG. 8b shows the equipment of FIG. 8a in the use position with the transport packaging device installed. [Figure 9a] FIG. 9a shows a particular embodiment of the transport packaging device according to the invention. [Figure 9b] FIG. 9b shows the transport packaging device of FIG. 9a in use.

[0006] FIG. 1a illustrates a transport package 10 for temperature-controlled transport. This transport package 10 is a double-walled device in that it includes an outer wall 11 and an inner wall 12 spaced apart from each other. In other words, the wall has an outer wall and an inner wall. In the present invention, an air gap 13 is provided between the outer wall 11 and the inner wall 12. Furthermore, the inner surface 14 of the outer wall 11 includes an insulating layer 15, and / or the outer surface 16 of the inner wall 12 includes an insulating layer 17. The air in the air gap 13 between the inner and outer walls provides effective thermal insulation. The walls of the transport package are shown in partially enlarged cross-sectional views in FIGS. 1b, 1c, and 1d. Hereinafter, the transport package will be referred to simply as the case. Either the inner surface 14 of the outer wall 11 (FIG. 1c) or the outer surface 16 of the inner wall 12, or both (FIG. 1d), includes a thin insulating layer. Each insulating layer has a thickness of 1 to 5 mm. Therefore, the case structure remains lightweight. Each insulating layer is preferably a thermal insulating paint that can be applied by roller (painting) or spraying. This simplifies the manufacturing of the case and allows for uniformity of the insulating layer. Because each insulating layer is within the case wall, the thin insulating layer is not damaged. This ensures that the insulating properties are maintained throughout the case's service life. Ceramic paint is preferably used as the insulating paint. One suitable insulating ceramic paint is a mixture of a binder and ceramic microspheres. Paint insulation is elastic, waterproof, and abrasion-resistant. The hollow microspheres made of ceramic material and silicon form a vacuum. The diameter of the microspheres can be set, for example, between 10 and 80 μm. This results in a low thermal conductivity of the paint layer, between 0.001 and 0.0015 W / (K*m). An acrylic polymer binder is preferably used, which makes the paint insulating layer water-soluble and non-toxic. Liquid insulating paint is easy to apply, and the resulting coating is uniform.

[0007] Even a single insulating layer provides superior insulation compared to conventional cases. The structure shown in Figure 1d achieves four times the insulation of a solid-walled case. This minimizes heat loss and extends service life. The resulting case is lightweight, while the walls and insulating layer remain thin. The tightly packed and mutually supporting walls result in a robust housing structure. This allows the case to be easily handled and maintains its shape even when fully loaded. The air gap is 5 to 20 mm, preferably 10 to 15 mm. This allows the case's internal volume to be as large as possible, while the air layer is large enough to provide effective insulation. The first insulating layer prevents cold and warm air from escaping into the environment, and the second insulating layer prevents cold and warm air from entering the case. Therefore, the internal temperature of the case remains at the desired temperature for a long period of time, regardless of external conditions.

[0008] The case can be made from different materials selected depending on the intended use. For example, the outer wall can be made from polypropylene or another thermoplastic polymer, and the inner wall can be made from polystyrene or another thermoplastic polymer, or vice versa. Stainless steel or other materials can also be used. Alternatively, both walls can be made from the same material. Generally, all materials used to manufacture the case are non-toxic and suitable for food applications. Furthermore, polypropylene is advantageously used because it is flame-retardant. This material melts without ignition at high temperatures. The case of the present invention can also be used to transport easily perishable foods. Furthermore, the case structure of the present invention is particularly tight, practically watertight, allowing it to be installed in a transport space without restriction or risk of leakage. This allows for the transport of different types of food, including both frozen and refrigerated foods, within the same transport space. It even makes it possible to transport fish worldwide without risk of spoilage or leakage. On average, 95% of the volume of a case made from expanded polypropylene is air. Despite this, the case is mechanically and chemically durable. Furthermore, polypropylene is fully recyclable.

[0009] A cooling element 18 can also be placed inside the case (Figures 2a and 2b) to maintain the internal temperature over long transport times. For example, a cooling mat can be used for frozen foods, and a cooling element or ice pack can be used for refrigerated foods. The cooling agent can be a gel or a cooling element.

[0010] The case of the present invention further includes a monitoring device 19 for monitoring, for example, the temperature and humidity inside the case. This monitoring device can then connect to a cloud service to continuously monitor the transport chain in real time. In other words, the transport packaging device includes an independent monitoring device wirelessly connected to a monitoring system configured as a cloud service. Thus, each case becomes a food premises (a place where food and beverages are prepared, sold, stored, or sold; an independent food warehouse) in itself, and its characteristics and location are always known. It is also possible to measure the temperature at any time without opening the case. This enables self-inspection, allowing transport orderers, transport contractors, carriers, and officials to ensure that the cold chain is not broken. At the same time, the case of the present invention can be transported with items having different temperature ranges on non-temperature-controlled transport vehicles. The case of the present invention can be constructed in multiple sections and stacked to reduce the volume for return transport. For example, the case of the present invention can correspond to the method and system disclosed in Published Patent Application WO2011 / 051561A1.

[0011] FIG. 1a shows a cross-sectional view of a case according to the present invention, with standardized external dimensions. This allows for easy installation on a transport vehicle. Furthermore, the case is suitable for automated sorting systems and can be handled by a robot. A shoulder 20 is formed on the interior wall, on which a cooling element 18 can be supported. This prevents the cooling element from coming into contact with the items being transported. Various holders or racks can also be used to hold the items in place and prevent damage. For example, in the case of pharmaceutical ampoules, a crate can be provided that holds the pharmaceutical ampoules in the correct position, preventing them from coming into contact with each other, the case walls, and the cooling element. This prevents damage to the pharmaceuticals throughout the entire transport process and keeps the ampoules intact.

[0012] FIG. 2a shows the case with the lid 22 removed. In other words, the transport packaging device 10 is a case 21 with a removable lid 22. This lid also has the same double-layer insulation structure, so it maintains excellent thermal insulation performance. Furthermore, the lid has a protrusion 23 that corresponds to the recess 24 in the case 21. Therefore, thermal insulation is maintained at the joint without the need for a cold bridge. For example, a suitable labyrinth structure in the lid can make the case airtight. In this way, by using dry ice in the cooling element, it is possible to reduce the internal temperature of the case to -70°C.

[0013] The lid is locked with a suitable latch. For international or other protected transport, a double lid is used, with the inner lid locked and sealed to the case. In this case, the lid consists of two parts (Figure 2b). The top lid is removable or at least partially openable, allowing the carrier to replace the cooling element if temperature issues arise or if the transport time needs to be extended. Therefore, the goods are untouched, eliminating the need for customs access (inspection). In this solution, the inner lid 25 must allow the cooling element's effect to extend to the rest of the case and the goods themselves. The inner lid is not insulated and may optionally have an opening. In either case, the case regains its energy-containment and airtight properties when the top lid is closed. In fact, the customer can package the goods and seal the case. This eliminates the need to bring the goods to the packaging location. On the other hand, no one can open the case except the recipient.

[0014] FIG. 2a shows an intermediate floor 26 with a double-layered cardboard packaging device 27 on top. This allows condensation, if any, to flow underneath, thereby keeping the items dry. In FIG. 2b, the case has an inner cassette 43 for drug ampoules or sample tubes. Typically, the case has interchangeable inner cassettes manufactured according to the items being transported. The inner cassettes hold the items so that they do not come into contact with each other or the case. The same is true for the intermediate lid 25, which holds the cooling elements so that they do not come into contact with the items. The inner cassette can also have an upper half 44 that can function as a lid.

[0015] 2a and 2b, the monitoring device 19 is provided in the cooling element 18 disposed in the transport packaging device 10. Therefore, once the articles are loaded, the monitoring device can be reliably disposed together with the cooling element. This prevents the monitoring device from being damaged and ensures accurate positioning. If necessary, a temperature sensor or the like can be protruded from the cooling element, and the sensor 28 can be disposed between the articles (FIG. 2b).

[0016] The transport time of refrigerated goods according to the present invention can be estimated at least for tens or even hundreds of hours. As a result, even the most perishable goods can be transported safely anywhere in the world. Although the cooling element may need to be replaced, the cold chain is maintained under all circumstances. Therefore, the case can also be used to transport meals. Without external energy supply, the case maintains a temperature of 60°C for up to 24 hours. Therefore, meals (food for eating) can be distributed using any means of transport, provided that after production, the meals are packed in the case according to the present invention and delivered to the customer unopened.

[0017] FIG. 8a shows a fixture 45 that can utilize the features of the case according to the present invention. The method of the present invention essentially involves using the fixture 45 after transportation. In this method, the transport packaging device 10 is partially inserted into an opening 47 of the fixture 45 while the transport packaging device 10 is empty. The fixture 45 in this example is a table with foldable legs 46. In the transport / storage position, the fixture therefore occupies a small volume. The fixture has at least one opening 47 through which a case 21 can be inserted. In other words, this opening is slightly larger than the case. This allows access to the contents of the case without opening the lid, and at a natural height. In FIG. 8b, the lid 22 of the case 21 is still in place. The case can be supported within the opening, and its surface can have a foldable support for supporting the case 48. This surface can also have multiple openings. In other words, the foldable legs 46 and support provided with the opening 47 for the transport packaging device are arranged within the fixture 45.

[0018] FIG. 3 shows a case according to the present invention, which includes a lid 22, an inner wall 12, and an outer wall 11, each of which are separated from one another. Specifically, a tongue-and-groove (T&G) joint 29 is provided between the inner wall 12 and the outer wall 11, securing the walls together. If necessary, a separate fastener, silicone, or sealing adhesive may be used. This prevents the walls from unintentionally separating. This sealing also prevents moisture from penetrating between the walls.

[0019] In Figure 4, different portions of the case are shown in cross section, and the inner surface 14 of the outer wall 11 and the outer surface 16 of the inner wall 12 are visible. Insulation is applied to either or both of these surfaces in accordance with the present invention.

[0020] 5 shows only a cross section of the outer wall 11. The outer wall 11 has vertical ribs 30 as well as spherical cap-like protrusions 31 on the floor that support the inner wall and create an air gap between the inner and outer walls.

[0021] Figures 6a and 6b show two different embodiments of the transport packaging device according to the present invention. The lid 22 has a window, which allows the contents of the case to be viewed without opening the lid. This is advantageous, for example, when selling products at a market or during catering. The window also prevents unnecessary opening and closing of the lid. In the illustrated embodiment, the window comprises two sheets of acrylic plastic, which are glued to the opening of the lid at a distance from each other. The insulating properties of the lid therefore correspond to those of the walls.

[0022] The illustrated embodiment further comprises an intermediate lid 33, which limits the space available for arranging salads and the like to be kept fresh during transport and storage. The bottom of the case here also has a skid 34. This raises the bottom of the case off the ground, reducing heat transfer. In other words, the temperature inside the case remains stable for as long as possible. Preferably, grooves 35 corresponding to the skids are formed in the lid 22. This allows the cases to be stacked on top of each other, with the skids fitting into the grooves preventing slippage. In other words, the stacked cases stay in place without tipping over.

[0023] Furthermore, the end of the case has a handle 36 embedded in the wall, which allows stacked cases to be arranged side by side. A second recess 37 is provided here, for example for a whiteboard, on which the contents of the case and the corresponding quantity can be displayed. Generally, the outer surface of the case is smooth and free of protrusions, which allows the space occupied by the case to be minimized. At the same time, snagging due to protrusions during handling and transportation is avoided.

[0024] In Figure 7a, the transport packaging device 10 according to the invention is mounted on a scooter. A corresponding transport packaging device is shown in Figure 7b. Here, another embodiment is shown in which the transport packaging device has separate compartments 38 and 39 for items in different temperature ranges. More than two compartments can be provided. In the embodiment shown, a warm compartment 38 and a cold compartment 39 are used. A third compartment can be a freezer. Typically, the transport packaging device 10 is configured as part of a means of transport 52, as also shown in Figures 9a and 9b.

[0025] In Figures 7a and 7b, the lid is formed as an access hatch 40, allowing the entire side to be opened. Furthermore, the interior of the transport package 41 is provided with multiple grates. This allows the pizza boxes, in particular, to be spaced apart, preventing the cardboard pizza boxes from being crushed and the pizza itself from being crushed. The grates or equivalent are removable, allowing other dishes to be stored and transported in the compartment 38. The transport package has excellent insulating properties, allowing the contents to be kept warm without the need for a separate heat source. The second compartment 39 is now cold and is therefore suitable for storing and transporting drinks, salads, salad dressings, and the like. Preferably, a replaceable cooling element is used in the bottom of this compartment to ensure a sufficiently low temperature. This allows perishable foods, such as salad dressings and mayonnaise, to be preserved intact throughout the entire transport period. The cold compartment 39 is equipped with an overhead access hatch 42, preventing cold air from escaping. The compartment sizes and access hatch configurations vary in different embodiments. End access hatches are not shown in Figure 7b. The different compartments have supports and holders to hold items in place during transport.

[0026] In addition to or in addition to the handle 36, the transport package can include, for example, a carrying handle or strap 49, which makes the transport package easier to handle. This allows, for example, a delivery person to pack items such as food, salad, and beverages into the transport package at a restaurant and deliver them to a customer in a highly insulated, lightweight, and easily transportable transport package. Excellent insulation prevents different temperatures from escaping, resulting in the hot compartment remaining hot and the cold compartment remaining cold.

[0027] The case of the present invention requires no external energy and is a self-contained, airtight storage unit. Additionally, the transport packaging device can be transported as a unit in a non-temperature-controlled vehicle, while items with different temperature ranges can be transported in the same vehicle. As a result, frozen foods, fresh foods, and even meals can be transported together in the same vehicle. Therefore, any non-temperature-controlled vehicle that does not incorporate a separate temperature control device can be used as the transport vehicle. This allows for versatile, lightweight transport vehicles. The device and transport vehicle are preferably electric, gas, hydrogen, or other low- or zero-emission systems. Delivery in urban and other residential areas can be carried out with minimal or no emissions. Nevertheless, it is possible to ensure the cold chain is not disrupted and maintain meals at the desired temperature. Using the case of the present invention, items can be delivered to an entire area in a single trip or round trip.

[0028] One application of the transport packaging device and method is the organization of food logistics on site. First, very hot, cold, and even frozen objects can be packed in a unique case. Second, the cases can be transported together and in the same transport means without any additional refrigeration or heating. Third, the objects can be ready for serving in a matter of hours or even days. Therefore, there is no need to bring equipment on site to store, prepare, or cook the food. At every stage, there are significant energy savings. At the same time, there is a reduction in the need for equipment and a reduction in costs due to the use of simpler equipment. In addition, there is a significant reduction in energy emissions. The equipment shown in Figures 8a and 8b can be used for both serving and display.

[0029] The case according to the present invention can be used in various ways. Figure 9a shows a luggage compartment of a vehicle that traditionally has space for a spare tire. Recently, spare tires have been replaced by repair kits, but the space within the vehicle remains the same. An extruded plastic tray 50 is often mounted inside a metal body that is part of the vehicle body. This tray, or at least a portion of the tray, is preferably manufactured according to the transport packaging device according to the present invention. In this way, the case can be formed as the entire tray or as a separate part attached to the tray. This allows for the utilization of unused space in the vehicle. For example, in Figure 9b, food 51, with a cooling element 18 on top, is placed inside the tray 50. Closing this space with a luggage compartment mat creates a food storage area that is free from external energy (and does not require it). If necessary, a lid can be used under the mat, just like the case. This case can also be designed to accommodate other recesses or cavities in the vehicle.

[0030] The unexpected benefit of the present invention is the ability to devise a unit with unprecedented features in transport packaging equipment. Instead of a vacuum, air in a sealed space, i.e., air in a sufficiently large air gap, is used, optionally with an insulating coating. The resulting structure is lightweight yet rigid and, above all, airtight. The air in the air gaps between the walls provides effective insulation. Even when loaded, the transport packaging equipment maintains its shape, and the air gap, and therefore the insulation, is maintained. This air gap is maintained even if the shape of the transport packaging equipment is slightly distorted during loading. The basic materials are themselves non-toxic and can even be steam-cleaned. The materials are recyclable and resistant to extreme temperatures. In addition to all of the above, the transport packaging equipment of the present invention is a food storage facility, or food facility, in which properties such as temperature can be continuously monitored and verified. Multiple independent or self-contained food storage facilities can be transported in delivery trucks without refrigeration units, and even items of different temperatures can be delivered within the same space. [Explanation of symbols]

[0031] 10 Transport packaging equipment 11 Exterior Wall 12 Inner wall 13 Air gap 14 Inner 15, 17 Insulation layer 16 Exterior 18 Cooling Elements 19 Monitor Device 20 Shoulder 21 cases 22 Lid 23 Convex part 24 recess 25 Inner lid, middle lid 26 Intermediate floor 27 Packaging equipment 28 Sensors 29 T&G connection 30 vertical ribs 31 Protrusion 32 Lid 33 Intermediate lid part 34 Skid 35 Groove 36 Handle 37 Second recess Sections 38 and 39 40 Access Hatch 41 Transport packaging equipment 42 overhead access hatch 43 Inner cassette 44 Upper half 45 Equipment 46 Folding legs 47 Aperture 48 cases 49 Strap 50 trays 52 Means of transportation

Claims

1. A transport packaging device (10) for temperature-controlled transport, said transport packaging device having an outer wall (11) and an inner wall (12) spaced apart from each other, An air gap is provided between the outer wall (11) and the inner wall (12), and the inner surface (14) of the outer wall (11) has a heat insulating layer (15) and / or the outer surface (16) of the inner wall (12) has a heat insulating layer (17). A transport packaging device characterized by:

2. 2. The transport packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of each of the heat insulating layers (15, 17) is between 1 and 5 mm.

3. 3. The transport packaging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the heat insulating layers (15, 17) is a heat insulating paint layer which is a mixture of a binder and ceramic microspheres.

4. The transport packaging device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transport packaging device (10) is a food storage facility.

5. A transport packaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having different compartments (38, 39) intended for goods in different temperature ranges.

6. 6. The transport packaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the transport packaging device (10) is a case (21) having a removable lid (22) consisting of one or two parts.

7. 7. The transport packaging device according to claim 6, wherein the case (21) has an intermediate floor (26).

8. The transport and packaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the transport and packaging device (10) has an independent monitor device (19) that wirelessly connects to a monitor system configured as a cloud service.

9. 9. The transport packaging device according to claim 8, wherein the monitoring device (19) is provided in a cooling element (18) arranged to be disposed in the transport packaging device (10).

10. 10. The transport packaging device according to claim 6, wherein the lid portion (22) has a window portion (32) made of two transparent plastic sheets spaced apart by an air gap.

11. The transport packaging device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the bottom of the case (21) has skids (34) for lifting the bottom of the case (21) off the ground.

12. 12. The transport packaging device according to claim 11, wherein the lid (22) is provided with a groove (35) corresponding to the skid (34).

13. A temperature-controlled transportation method using a plurality of units of transport packaging equipment, each unit of transport packaging equipment (10) being double-walled, having an outer wall (11) and an inner wall (12) spaced apart from each other, characterized in that an air gap (13) is provided between the outer wall (11) and the inner wall (12), the inner surface (14) of the outer wall (11) having an insulating layer (15), and / or the outer surface of the inner wall (12) having an insulating layer (17).

14. A temperature-controlled transportation method according to claim 13, which uses a plurality of units of the transport packaging device according to claims 2 to 12 and transports them in a non-temperature-controlled transport means, and transports items having different temperature ranges in the same transport means (52).

15. 15. The temperature controlled transportation method of claim 14, wherein the method uses equipment and vehicles based on electric, gas, hydrogen or other low or zero emission energy sources (52).

16. 16. The temperature-controlled transportation method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the method uses a rig (45) after transportation and the transport package (10) is partially inserted into an opening (47) in the rig (45) with the transport package (10) empty.

17. 17. A temperature-controlled transportation method according to claim 16, wherein the equipment (45) is provided with supports (48) and foldable legs (46) arranged with respect to an opening (47) for the transport packaging device.

18. The temperature-controlled transportation method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the transport packaging device (10) is arranged as part of a means of transportation (52).

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