Panels and insulated containers

Abstract

To provide a panel and an insulated container that can improve the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container. [Solution] Panel 11 comprises a first layer 1, a vacuum insulation material 2, and a second layer 3 in this order. When viewed along the lamination direction of the first layer 1, the vacuum insulation material 2, and the second layer 3, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3. Therefore, by covering the insulated container with a heat-shielding sheet that reflects visible light and infrared rays, the cooling effect of the insulated container can be enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to a panel and a heat-insulating container.

Background Art

[0002] A heat-insulating container using a heat-insulating material is mainly used for transporting articles while keeping them cold by means of transportation that does not have a cold-keeping function, such as a cold-keeping vehicle. Further, in order to suppress the radiant heat from sunlight or the like from reaching the inside of the heat-insulating container, the heat-insulating effect of the heat-insulating container can be enhanced by covering the heat-insulating container with a heat-shielding sheet having the property of reflecting visible light and infrared rays. Conventionally, a foldable heat-insulating container including a heat-insulating panel has been known (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in a heat-insulating container, it is required to further improve the heat-insulating performance. For this reason, a panel that can further improve the heat-insulating performance is required.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a panel and a heat-insulating container capable of improving the heat-insulating performance of the heat-insulating container.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the following [1] to [5].

[0007] [1] A panel, a first layer, a vacuum heat-insulating material, The second layer and the following layers are provided in this order: A panel in which, when viewed along the lamination direction of the first layer, the vacuum insulation material, and the second layer, the periphery of the vacuum insulation material is surrounded by the second layer.

[0008] [2] The panel according to [1], wherein, when viewed along the stacking direction, the distance from the periphery of the panel to the periphery of the vacuum insulation material is 1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

[0009] [3] The panel according to [1] or [2], wherein the thickness of the first layer is thinner than the thickness of the second layer.

[0010] [4] The panel according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the thickness of the first layer is 0.1 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0011] [5] An insulated container comprising a panel as described in any one of [1] to [4]. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to this embodiment, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an insulated container (assembled state) according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the insulated container in one embodiment with each panel removed. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a horizontal cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view along line III-III in Figure 1) showing an insulated container (assembled state) according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a horizontal cross-sectional view (corresponding to Figure 3A) showing another example of an insulated container (assembled state) according to one embodiment. [Figure 3C]FIG. 3C is a horizontal cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 3A) showing another example of the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is a horizontal cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 3A) showing another example of the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a vertical cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 1) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a vertical cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 4A) showing another example of the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 1) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing the heat-insulating container (folded state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 6) showing the heat-insulating container (folded state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a horizontal cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 3A) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 4A) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the top panel of the heat-insulating container according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI of FIG. 10) showing the top panel of the heat-insulating container according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view (an enlarged view of part XII of FIG. 8) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view (a corresponding enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 12) showing the heat-insulating container (assembled state) as a comparative example. [Figure 14]This is a perspective view showing an insulated container (assembled) according to one embodiment being placed inside an outer bag. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a vertical cross-sectional view (corresponding to Figure 4A) showing an insulated container (assembled state) according to a modified example (modification 1). [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a vertical cross-sectional view (corresponding to Figure 5) showing an insulated container (assembled state) according to a modified example (modification 1). [Figure 17] Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view showing the insulated container with each panel removed according to a modified example (Modification Example 2). [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a horizontal cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view along line XVIII-XVIII in Figure 17) showing an insulated container (assembled state) according to a modified example (modification example 2). [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing a modified example (modification 2) of an insulated container (folded state). [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a vertical cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view along line XX-XX in Figure 19) showing an insulated container (folded state) according to a modified example (modification example 2). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following figures are schematic representations. Therefore, the size and shape of each part are exaggerated as appropriate to facilitate understanding. Furthermore, it is possible to modify and implement the design as appropriate without departing from the technical concept. In the following figures, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and some detailed explanations may be omitted. In addition, the numerical values ​​such as dimensions and material names of each component described in this specification are examples of embodiments and are not limited to them; they can be selected and used as appropriate. In this specification, terms that specify shapes and geometric conditions, such as parallel, orthogonal, and perpendicular, are used not only in their strict sense but also to include substantially the same state.

[0015] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, "X direction" refers to the direction parallel to the left and right sides of the insulated container when viewed from the front and parallel to the floor surface on which the insulated container is placed, and "Y direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the X direction and parallel to the floor surface on which the insulated container is placed. "Z direction" refers to the direction parallel to the vertical direction. Also, "front" refers to the surface perpendicular to the floor surface and mainly faces the user when loading or unloading contents into the insulated container, and "back" refers to the surface perpendicular to the floor surface and opposite to the front. "Top" refers to the surface parallel to the floor surface and the upper side of the insulated container, and "bottom" refers to the surface parallel to the floor surface and the lower side of the insulated container. Also, "right side" refers to the surface perpendicular to the floor surface and located on the right side of the insulated container when viewed from the front, and "left side" refers to the surface perpendicular to the floor surface and located on the left side of the insulated container when viewed from the front. "Side" refers to the surface perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces.

[0016] (Configuration of an insulated container) The configuration of the insulated container according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 14.

[0017] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the insulated container 10 according to this embodiment is assembleable and foldable and includes six panels 11 to 16. Panels 11 to 16 form a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape when assembled and include a top panel 11, a front panel 12, a back panel 13, a right side panel 14, a left side panel 15, and a bottom panel 16. The top panel 11, the front panel 12, the back panel 13, the right side panel 14, the left side panel 15, and the bottom panel 16 each have a main surface (the widest pair of opposing surfaces among the six surfaces constituting each panel) that is roughly rectangular or roughly square in shape. Furthermore, the main surfaces of the front panel 12 and the back panel 13 are approximately the same size, and the main surfaces of the right side panel 14 and the left side panel 15 are approximately the same size. Each panel 11-16 is made of a rigid, plate-like material and is designed not to deform flexibly during use.

[0018] Panels 11 to 16 are provided in a manner that allows them to be assembled and folded as a whole, and can be in an assembled state assembled into a box shape (Figures 1 to 5) and in a folded state that is folded down to a small size (Figures 6 and 7).

[0019] When the insulated container 10 is assembled, the top panel 11 and the bottom panel 16 face each other, the right side panel 14 and the left side panel 15 face each other, and the rear panel 13 and the front panel 12 face each other. The bottom panel 16 is surrounded by the front panel 12, the rear panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15. The bottom panel 16 is foldable relative to the rear panel 13. Furthermore, in the folded state of the insulated container 10 (Figures 6 and 7), the bottom panel 16 is housed between the fixed panel of the right side panel 14 (first right side portion panel 14a) and the fixed panel of the left side panel 15 (first left side portion panel 15a).

[0020] In this embodiment, the right side panel 14 corresponds to the first side panel, the left side panel 15 corresponds to the second side panel, the rear panel 13 corresponds to the third side panel, and the front panel 12 corresponds to the fourth side panel. Alternatively, the left side panel 15 may correspond to the first side panel, the right side panel 14 to the second side panel, the rear panel 13 to the third side panel, and the front panel 12 to the fourth side panel. Hereafter, the front panel 12, rear panel 13, right side panel 14, and left side panel 15 will be collectively referred to as side panels 12 to 15.

[0021] In its assembled state, the insulated container 10 is surrounded by six panels 11-16, forming a roughly rectangular storage space 20 for containing the contents. Each of the six panels 11-16 contains an insulating panel, as will be described later. As a result, the storage space 20 maintains its insulating properties by restricting the inflow and outflow of heat from the outside as it is surrounded by insulating material. Furthermore, at least a portion of each of the six panels 11-16 is provided to be movable relative to the other adjacent panels 11-16. This allows the insulated container 10 to be changed from an assembled state in which the storage space 20 is formed to a folded state in which the storage space 20 is not formed, and from the folded state to an assembled state. Therefore, when the insulated container 10 is not in use, the panels 11-16 can be folded to reduce the overall size compared to the assembled state, allowing for easy storage. Furthermore, in the assembled state, the edges of each of the six panels 11-16 are in close contact with any other panel 11-16, thereby ensuring that the storage space 20 is airtight.

[0022] Next, we will further explain the configuration of each panel 11 to 16. In the following, "panels 11 to 16 are parallel (perpendicular) to a predetermined plane" means "the main surfaces of panels 11 to 16 are parallel (perpendicular) to a predetermined plane."

[0023] (Top panel) The top panel 11 is located on the top side (positive Z-direction) in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5). In the assembled state, the top panel 11 is positioned above (positive Z-direction) the front panel 12, rear panel 13, right side panel 14, and left side panel 15.

[0024] The top panel 11 has an openable and foldable structure and is made from a single plate-like component. Furthermore, the top panel 11 is foldably attached to the rear panel 13.

[0025] In the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), the top panel 11 is positioned parallel to the horizontal plane (XY plane). In the folded state (Figures 6 and 7), the top panel 11 rotates relative to the back panel 13 and is positioned on the back side (positive Y direction) of the back panel 13. At this time, the top panel 11 is positioned so as to hang down from the back panel 13 and is positioned parallel to the back panel 13. The top panel 11 is attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later.

[0026] (Front panel) The front panel 12 is located on the front side (negative Y-direction side) in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), and is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the rear panel 13 (ZX plane). Furthermore, in both the assembled and folded states, the front panel 12 is positioned further forward (negative Y-direction side) than the rear panel 13, right side panel 14, left side panel 15, and bottom panel 16.

[0027] The front panel 12 is non-openable and non-foldable and is composed of a single plate-like member. In the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), the front panel 12 is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the rear panel 13 (ZX plane). In the folded state (Figures 6 and 7), the front panel 12 moves toward the rear panel 13 while maintaining its position perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the rear panel 13 (ZX plane). The front panel 12 is attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later. Although not shown in the figures, the front panel 12 may also be divided approximately in the center in the width direction (X direction). In this case, both ends of the front panel 12 in the width direction (X direction) may be attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later, and the front panel 12 may be configured to open and close like double doors, with the vicinity of both ends in the width direction as the axis of rotation.

[0028] (Rear panel) The rear panel 13 is located on the rear side (positive Y-direction) in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5). In both the assembled and folded states, the rear panel 13 is positioned further back (positive Y-direction) than the right side panel 14, the left side panel 15, and the bottom panel 16.

[0029] The rear panel 13 has a structure that cannot be opened or closed and cannot be folded, and is made of a single plate-like member. The rear panel 13 maintains a state perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) (parallel to the ZX plane) in both the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5) and the folded state (Figures 6 and 7). The rear panel 13 is attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later.

[0030] Furthermore, a pocket 41 capable of accommodating a cooling pack may be provided on the inner surface of the back panel 13. This pocket 41 is made of a flexible material such as cloth and, in the assembled state, protrudes from the inner surface of the back panel 13, forming a space capable of accommodating a cooling pack. By accommodating a cooling pack in the pocket 41 of the back panel 13 in this way, the cold air from the cooling pack descends and is sent to the loaded items, thereby improving the cooling performance of the storage space 20. On the other hand, when folding the unit, the cooling pack in the pocket 41 is removed, and then the pocket 41 is folded. This prevents the pocket 41 from interfering with the folding of the bottom panel 16 when the unit is folded. The pocket 41 may be provided on any of the panels 11 to 16.

[0031] (Right side panel) The right side panel 14, in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), is located to the right (positive X direction) of the left side panel 15 and the bottom panel 16, and is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane).

[0032] This right side panel 14 has an openable and foldable structure and is made of a single plate-like member. The right side panel 14 is rotatably and foldably attached to the rear panel 13 via a right side connecting member 24a (see Figure 3A), which will be described later.

[0033] In the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), the right side panel 14 is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane). On the other hand, in the folded state (Figures 6 and 7), the right side panel 14 is folded inward relative to the back panel 13. At this time, the right side panel 14 is positioned between the folded bottom panel 16 and the front panel 12, and is perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the back panel 13 (ZX plane). Note that the right side panel 14 is not directly attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later.

[0034] (Left side panel) The left side panel 15, in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), is located to the left (negative X direction) of the right side panel 14 and the bottom panel 16, and is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane).

[0035] This left side panel 15 has an openable and foldable structure and is made of a single plate-like member. The left side panel 15 is rotatably and foldably attached to the rear panel 13 via a left side connecting member 25a (see Figure 3A), which will be described later.

[0036] In the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), the left side panel 15 is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane). On the other hand, in the folded state (Figures 6 and 7), the left side panel 15 is folded inward relative to the back panel 13. At this time, the left side panel 15 is positioned between the folded bottom panel 16 and the front panel 12 (right side panel 14), and is perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the back panel 13 (ZX plane). Note that the left side panel 15 is not directly attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later.

[0037] (Bottom panel) The bottom panel 16 is located on the bottom side (negative Z-direction side) in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5). In the assembled state, the bottom panel 16 is positioned so as to be surrounded by the front panel 12, the back panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15. That is, all four sides of the bottom panel 16 are in contact with the front panel 12, the back panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15, respectively. The bottom panel 16 is composed of a single plate-like member and has a structure that allows it to be opened and closed and folded by lifting it. This bottom panel 16 is attached to the back panel 13 via a bottom hinge member 26a (see Figure 5) so as to be foldable and rotatable.

[0038] In the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5), the bottom panel 16 is positioned parallel to the horizontal plane (XY plane). On the other hand, in the folded state (Figures 6 and 7), the bottom panel 16 is folded so as to overlap the inside (negative Y direction) of the back panel 13, and is positioned between the back panel 13 and the right and left side panels 14 and 15. In other words, in the folded state, the bottom panel 16 is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the back panel 13 (XZ plane). Note that the bottom panel 16 is not directly attached to the outer bag 30, which will be described later.

[0039] The right-side connecting member 24a, the left-side connecting member 25a, and the bottom hinge member 26a described above may each be composed of connecting members such as a flexible connecting cloth. By constructing each connecting member 24a, 25a and the bottom hinge member 26a from a connecting cloth, each panel 11 to 16 can be easily assembled and folded. The connecting members 24a and 25a are connecting members that attach each panel with more play than the bottom hinge member 26a.

[0040] Figures 6 and 7 show the case where panels 11 to 16 are in the folded state, as described above. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, in the folded state, each panel 11 to 16 is folded so that the overall thickness in the front-to-back direction (Y direction) is thinner than in the assembled state (Figures 1 to 5). In Figures 6 and 7, the case in which the back panel 13 is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) (parallel to the ZX plane) is shown as an example. However, the case is not limited to this, and the back panel 13 may be positioned on the horizontal plane (XY plane), for example.

[0041] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, in the folded state, the top panel 11, rear panel 13, bottom panel 16, left panel 15, right panel 14, and front panel 12 are overlapping in that order from the rear side (positive Y direction).

[0042] The thickness of each panel 11 to 16 is preferably 20 mm or less and 60 mm or less, and more preferably 30 mm or less and 50 mm or less. By setting the thickness of each panel 11 to 16 within the above range, a certain degree of rigidity can be given to each panel 11 to 16, and the workability during assembly of the heat-insulating container 10 can be improved. In this embodiment, the thicknesses of each panel 11 to 16 are the same, but the thicknesses of each panel 11 to 16 may be different.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3A, the width of the front panel 12 (width of the rear panel 13 (X-direction length)) L1 is wider than the width of the right panel 14 (width of the left panel 15 (Y-direction length)) L2. Also, the width of the front panel 12 (width of the rear panel 13 (X-direction length)) L1 is wider than the width of the bottom panel 16 (X-direction length) L3. Note that in the example shown in Figure 3A, the right panel 14 and the left panel 15 are sandwiched between the front panel 12 and the rear panel 13, but this is not the only option. For example, as shown in Figure 3B, the rear panel 13 may be sandwiched between the right panel 14 and the left panel 15. Also, in the case of a structure where only the top panel 11 can be opened, each panel 12-15 does not have to be sandwiched between other panels 12-15. That is, as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, each panel 12-15 may be arranged in a so-called windmill shape. The windmill shape refers to a configuration in which, of a pair of end faces in the longitudinal direction, one end face is covered by another panel, while the other end face is exposed and not covered by another panel.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4A, in the assembled state, the height (length in the Z direction) H1 of the right side panel 14 (left side panel 15) is lower than the total height (length in the Z direction) H2 of the insulated container 10. Note that in the example shown in Figure 4A, the upper end surface (end surface on the positive Z direction) of the right side panel 14 and the upper end surface (end surface on the positive Z direction) of the left side panel 15 are covered by the top panel 11, but this is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 4B, the top panel 11 may be sandwiched between the right side panel 14 and the left side panel 15. In this case, in the assembled state, the height H1 of the right side panel 14 (left side panel 15) is approximately equal to the total height H2 of the insulated container 10.

[0045] Referring again to Figure 3A, the depth (length in the Y direction) of the bottom panel 16 may be equal to the width L2 of the right panel 14 (width of the left panel 15). Preferably, the depth of the bottom panel 16 is less than or equal to the height H1 (length in the Z direction) of the right panel 14 and the left panel 15 (see Figure 4A) (i.e., width L2 ≤ H1). This prevents the bottom panel 16 from protruding from the upper end of the right panel 14 (left panel 15) when folded, making it easier to accommodate each of the panels 11 to 16.

[0046] Note that the "height" of each panel 11-16 refers to the length of each panel 11-16 in the direction from the bottom panel 16 to the top panel 11. The "width" of each panel 11-16 refers to the length in the direction parallel to the main surface of each panel 11-16 and perpendicular to the height direction of each panel 11-16. The "thickness" of each panel 11-16 refers to the length in the direction perpendicular to the main surface of each panel 11-16.

[0047] (Internal structure of the panel) Next, we will further explain the structure of each panel 11-16.

[0048] Each of the panels 11-16 is made of an insulating panel that has thermal insulation properties as described above. As described above, each of the panels 11-16 (top panel 11, front panel 12, back panel 13, right panel 14, left panel 15, and bottom panel 16) has a main surface that is approximately rectangular or approximately square in shape. In other words, the shape of each of the panels 11-16 is rectangular (approximately rectangular or approximately square) in plan view.

[0049] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, each panel 11 to 16 comprises a first layer 1, a vacuum insulation material 2, and a second layer 3 in that order. The first layer 1, the vacuum insulation material 2, and the second layer 3 are stacked sequentially from the inner surface 10a side to the outer surface 10b side of the insulated container 10.

[0050] Next, the layer configuration of each panel 11 to 16 will be explained in detail with reference to Figures 10 and 11. In Figures 10 and 11, the top panel 11 will be used as an example for explanation.

[0051] In this embodiment, in each of the panels 11 to 16, when viewed along the stacking direction of the first layer 1, the vacuum insulation material 2, and the second layer 3, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3. For example, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, in the top panel 11, when viewed along the stacking direction (Z direction) of the first layer 1, the vacuum insulation material 2, and the second layer 3, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3. Note that in the front panel 12 and the back panel 13, the stacking direction is the Y direction. In the right panel 14 and the left panel 15, the stacking direction is the X direction. Furthermore, in the bottom panel 16, the stacking direction is the Z direction.

[0052] In this configuration, when viewed along the lamination direction, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3, thereby improving the dimensional accuracy of each panel 11 to 16. That is, as will be described later, the vacuum insulation material 2 may consist of a core material and an outer covering material. In this case, the core material may be soft, and the periphery of the core material may be rounded. Maintaining dimensional accuracy may be difficult with such a vacuum insulation material 2. In contrast, in this embodiment, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3, thereby improving the dimensional accuracy of each panel 11 to 16. That is, the first layer 1 and the second layer 3 constitute the outermost surface (the surface that can come into contact with other components) of each panel 11 to 16. Furthermore, by using materials with a predetermined rigidity (materials with higher rigidity than the vacuum insulation material 2) as the materials for the first layer 1 and the second layer 3, the dimensional accuracy of each panel 11 to 16 can be improved.

[0053] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, when viewed in a cross-section along the stacking direction, and specifically in a cross-section along one side of the rectangle formed by the planar shapes of each panel 11 to 16, each panel 11 to 16 is rectangular. That is, each panel 11 to 16 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In this case, each panel 11 to 16 can be assembled in the insulated container 10 without any gaps.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, when viewed along the stacking direction, the distances D1a, D1b, D1c, and D1d from the periphery p of the top panel 11 (panels 11-16) to the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 may be between 1 mm and 30 mm. By having distances D1a, D1b, D1c, and D1d of 1 mm or more, even if an unintended force is applied to the periphery p of panels 11-16, damage to the vacuum insulation material 2 (especially near the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2) can be suppressed. This effectively improves the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10. Also, by having distances D1a, D1b, D1c, and D1d of 30 mm or less, the distance between the vacuum insulation materials 2 (distance D4 (see Figure 12) described later) between each of the panels 11-16 can be shortened. This effectively suppresses heat from entering through the gaps in the vacuum insulation materials 2. Therefore, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10 can be effectively improved. Note that a, D1b, D1c, and D1d may be equal to each other or different from each other.

[0055] As shown in Figure 11, in the stacking direction, the distance D2 from the inner surface 10a to the vacuum insulation material 2 may be shorter than the distance D3 from the outer surface 10b to the vacuum insulation material 2. In this case, the thickness t1 of the first layer 1 may be thinner than the thickness t3 of the second layer 3. This allows the distance D4 between the vacuum insulation materials 2 between each of the panels 11 to 16 to be shortened, as shown in Figure 12. In other words, as a comparative example, as shown in Figure 13, there is a case where the distance D2 from the inner surface 10a to the vacuum insulation material 2 is longer than the distance D3 from the outer surface 10b to the vacuum insulation material 2 (for example, when the first layer 1 is located on the outer surface 10b side of the second layer 3). In this case, the distance D4 between the vacuum insulation materials 2 between each of the panels 11 to 16 becomes longer. In contrast, according to this embodiment, the distance D2 from the inner surface 10a to the vacuum insulation material 2 is shorter than the distance D3 from the outer surface 10b to the vacuum insulation material 2. As a result, as shown in Figure 12, the distance D4 between each of the panels 11 to 16 can be shortened. Therefore, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10 can be effectively improved.

[0056] The thickness t1 of the first layer 1 may be between 0.1 mm and 10 mm. The thickness t2 of the vacuum insulation material 2 may be between 4 mm and 20 mm. Furthermore, the thickness t3 of the second layer 3 may be between 10 mm and 30 mm.

[0057] The first layer 1 and the second layer 3 are preferably materials that exhibit the desired thermal insulation properties. Examples include polyethylene foams such as extruded polystyrene and bead-molded polystyrene, polyurethane foams such as rigid urethane foam, polyethylene foams such as high-density polyethylene, and foamed thermal insulation materials such as phenolic foam.

[0058] Furthermore, the first layer 1 and the second layer 3 may be made of insulating material or protective material such as a resin sheet, corrugated plastic (hollow structure), polypropylene Plapearl (registered trademark of Kawakami Sangyo Co., Ltd.), or polyethylene Twin Cone (registered trademark of Ube Eximo Co., Ltd.). In this case, the first layer 1 and the second layer 3 may be made of corrugated plastic with a hollow structure made of polypropylene or polyethylene.

[0059] The vacuum insulation material 2 may consist of a core material and an outer covering material. The core material may be a porous material such as a powder such as silica, a foam such as urethane polymer, or a fibrous material such as glass wool. The outer covering material is a member that covers the outer periphery of the core material, and may be a flexible sheet in which a heat-sealed layer and a gas barrier layer are sequentially laminated from the core material. The gas barrier layer may be a metal foil, a vapor-deposited sheet in which a vapor-deposited layer is formed on one side of a resin sheet, etc. For the metal foil, aluminum may be used. For the vapor-deposited layer, aluminum, aluminum oxide, silicon oxide may be used, for example. Furthermore, the foam insulation material can be placed adjacent to at least the containment space 20 side of the vacuum insulation material. In addition, an insulating outer enclosure may be formed so as to surround the vacuum insulation material.

[0060] (Outer packaging composition) As shown in Figure 14, each panel 11-16 is completely covered on its outer surface by an outer bag 30 that provides thermal insulation.

[0061] This outer bag 30 has a top cover 31, a front cover 32, a rear cover 33, a right side cover 34, a left side cover 35, and a bottom cover 36. Of these, the top cover 31 is attached to the top panel 11. The front cover 32 is attached to the front panel 12. Furthermore, the rear cover 33 is attached to the rear panel 13. Note that the right side cover 34, the left side cover 35, and the bottom cover 36 are not directly attached to the right side panel 14, the left side panel 15, and the bottom panel 16, respectively.

[0062] In the assembled state shown in Figures 1 to 5, the top cover 31 covers the top panel 11, and the front cover 32 covers the front panel 12. The rear cover 33 covers the rear panel 13, and the right side cover 34 covers the right side panel 14. Furthermore, the left side cover 35 covers the left side panel 15, and the bottom cover 36 covers the bottom panel 16. In this way, in the assembled state, the entire insulated container 10 is covered by an outer bag 30 that has insulating properties, so heat transfer to the storage space 20 can be further suppressed.

[0063] In the folded state shown in Figures 6 and 7, the top cover 31 covers the top panel 11, the front cover 32 covers the front panel 12, and the rear cover 33 covers the rear panel 13. On the other hand, as described above, the right side cover 34, the left side cover 35, and the bottom cover 36 are not directly attached to the right side panel 14, the left side panel 15, and the bottom panel 16, respectively. Therefore, the right side cover 34, the left side cover 35, and the bottom cover 36 are each folded at a predetermined position (between the front panel 12 and the right side panel 14 in the illustrated example).

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, fasteners 37 such as hook-and-loop fasteners are attached to the right side cover 34 and the left side cover 35, respectively. These fasteners 37 secure the right side cover 34 and the left side cover 35 in a detachable state when folded, thereby holding the insulated container 10 in a folded state (see Figure 6).

[0065] As described above, the top panel 11, front panel 12, and rear panel 13 are each attached to the outer bag 30. The right side panel 14 is attached to the rear panel 13 via a right side connecting member 24a. The left side panel 15 is attached to the rear panel 13 via a left side connecting member 25a. Furthermore, the bottom panel 16 is attached to the rear panel 13 via a bottom hinge member 26a. In this way, since each of the panels 11 to 16 is attached to the outer bag 30 directly or indirectly, when the panels 11 to 16 are folded, each panel 11 to 16 does not fall off from the other panels 11 to 16.

[0066] The outer bag 30 may be made of, for example, a heat-shielding sheet. The heat-shielding sheet may be a non-metallic material that is transparent to radio waves, and may have sufficiently low transmittance to visible light and sufficiently high reflectivity to infrared rays. As the heat-shielding sheet that constitutes the outer bag 30, for example, stretched or unstretched films or sheets of plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyester, polypropylene, polycarbonate, cellulose acetate, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, and polymethylpentene can be used, or sheets or nonwoven fabrics made from natural fabrics or woven fabrics of synthetic resin fibers can be used. In addition, alloys or laminates of two or more of these materials may be used. These various resin films and sheets may be colored by printing or coating with inks using non-metallic white pigments such as titanium dioxide, barium sulfate, zinc oxide, zinc sulfide, and calcium carbonate, as needed, in order to impart light-shielding properties and reflectivity to visible light and infrared rays. Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the thickness of the heat-shielding sheet perpendicular to the sheet surface direction, but considering the flexibility, durability, visible light, infrared transmittance, reflectivity, etc. of the heat-shielding sheet, it can be, for example, 0.2 mm or more and 15.0 mm or less. In this way, when the heat-shielding sheet is made of a non-metallic material that is transparent to radio waves, and an IC tag is placed inside the insulated container 10, it becomes possible to read the information of the IC tag from outside the insulated container 10 via contactless communication using a reader device.

[0067] (Disassembly and assembly of insulated containers) Next, we will explain the process of disassembling and assembling the insulated container 10.

[0068] (Disassembly of an insulated container) First, we will explain the process of disassembling the assembled insulated container 10 (see Figures 1 to 5) to obtain the disassembled insulated container 10 (see Figures 6 and 7).

[0069] First, let's assume that the insulated container 10 is assembled in a box shape, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, with six panels 11 to 16. In this case, a roughly rectangular storage space 20 is formed between each of the panels 11 to 16. Although not shown, food or other items may be stored inside the storage space 20.

[0070] Next, the top panel 11 is rotated relative to the rear panel 13, moving to the rear side (positive Y-direction) of the rear panel 13. At this time, the top panel 11 is positioned so as to hang down from the rear panel 13 and is positioned parallel to the rear panel 13.

[0071] Next, the bottom panel 16 is folded relative to the rear panel 13 via the bottom hinge member 26a. At this time, the bottom panel 16 is folded so that it overlaps the inside (negative Y direction) of the rear panel 13.

[0072] Next, the left side panel 15 is folded via the left side connecting member 25a. At this time, the left side panel 15 is folded inward relative to the rear panel 13. The left side panel 15 is positioned between the folded bottom panel 16 and the front panel 12, and is perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the rear panel 13 (ZX plane), respectively.

[0073] Next, the right side panel 14 is folded via the right side connecting member 24a. At this time, the right side panel 14 is folded inward relative to the rear panel 13. The right side panel 14 is positioned between the folded bottom panel 16 (left side panel 15) and the front panel 12, and is perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the rear panel 13 (ZX plane), respectively.

[0074] Subsequently, the front panel 12 is moved parallel to the positive Y-direction relative to the rear panel 13, bringing the front panel 12 closer to the right side panel 14 and the left side panel 15.

[0075] In this way, the six panels 11-16 of the insulated container 10 are folded together as shown in Figures 6 and 7. Finally, the right side cover 34 and left side cover 35 of the outer bag 30 may be fixed in the folded state using the attachment device 37. As described above, when the insulated container 10 is not in use, the panels 11-16 can be folded to reduce the overall volume as much as possible for storage and transport.

[0076] (Assembly of an insulated container) The insulated container 10 can be assembled by following the reverse procedure of the disassembly method described above. That is, first remove the attachment device 37, then move the front panel 12 parallel to the negative Y direction relative to the rear panel 13, and separate the front panel 12 from the right side panel 14 and the left side panel 15.

[0077] Next, the right panel 14 and the left panel 15 are unfolded and assembled so that they are positioned parallel to the YZ plane.

[0078] Next, the bottom panel 16 is rotated toward the horizontal plane (XY plane). At this time, the bottom panel 16 is positioned parallel to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and surrounded by the front panel 12, the back panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15.

[0079] Subsequently, the top panel 11 is rotated relative to the rear panel 13 and placed on top of the front panel 12, rear panel 13, right panel 14, and left panel 15. At this time, the top panel 11 is positioned parallel to the horizontal plane (XY plane). In this way, the six panels 11 to 16 of the insulated container 10 are assembled as shown in Figures 1 to 5.

[0080] As described above, according to this embodiment, each panel 11 to 16 is provided with a first layer 1, a vacuum insulation material 2, and a second layer 3 in that order. Furthermore, when viewed along the lamination direction of the first layer 1, the vacuum insulation material 2, and the second layer 3, the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3. This effectively protects the vacuum insulation material 2. Therefore, even if an unintended force is applied to the periphery p of panels 11 to 16, damage to the vacuum insulation material 2 (especially near the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2) can be suppressed. In addition, because the periphery 2a of the vacuum insulation material 2 is surrounded by the second layer 3 when viewed along the lamination direction, the dimensional accuracy of each panel 11 to 16 can be improved. In this case, each panel 11 to 16 can be assembled in the insulated container 10 without any gaps. Therefore, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10 can be improved.

[0081] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, in the stacking direction, the distance D2 from the inner surface 10a to the vacuum insulation material 2 is shorter than the distance D3 from the outer surface 10b to the vacuum insulation material 2. This allows the distance D4 between the vacuum insulation materials 2 between each of the panels 11 to 16 to be shortened. As a result, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10 can be effectively improved.

[0082] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the thickness t1 of the first layer 1 is thinner than the thickness t2 of the second layer 3. Even in this case, the distance D4 between each of the panels 11 to 16 can be shortened. As a result, the thermal insulation performance of the insulated container 10 can be effectively improved.

[0083] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, in the assembled state, the bottom panel 16 is arranged to be surrounded by the front panel 12, the back panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15 (side panels 12-15). This enhances the heat insulation of the storage space 20. Also, in the assembled state, the side panels 12-15 are sandwiched between the outer bag 30 and the outer circumference of the bottom panel 16, allowing the side panels 12-15 to be held stably.

[0084] In this embodiment, the bottom panel 16 was described as being foldable relative to the rear panel 13. However, the bottom panel 16 is not limited to this and may also be foldable relative to the front panel 12.

[0085] (modified version) Next, various modifications of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 15 to 20. Figures 15 to 20 each show a heat-insulating container according to a modification. In Figures 15 to 20, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those shown in Figures 1 to 14, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0086] (Variation 1) Figures 15 and 16 show the insulated container 10 according to Modification 1.

[0087] In Figures 15 and 16, the insulated container 10 further includes an inner lid panel 17 placed within the storage space 20. When the insulated container 10 is assembled, this inner lid panel 17 is surrounded by the front panel 12, the rear panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15. In this case, the front panel 12, the rear panel 13, the right side panel 14, and the left side panel 15 may have support parts (not shown) for supporting the inner lid panel 17.

[0088] The inner lid panel 17 may be removable from the front panel 12, rear panel 13, right side panel 14, and left side panel 15. When the insulated container 10 is folded (see Figures 6 and 7), the inner lid panel 17 may be housed, for example, between the left side panel 15 and the bottom panel 16. Alternatively, when the insulated container 10 is folded (see Figures 6 and 7), the inner lid panel 17 may be stored separately from the rear panel 13, etc.

[0089] (Modification 2) Figures 17 to 20 show the insulated container 10 according to Modification 2. Of these, Figures 17 and 18 show the insulated container 10 in the assembled state, and Figures 19 and 20 show the insulated container 10 in the folded state.

[0090] In Figures 17 to 20, the right side panel 14 has a first right side partial panel 14a located on the rear panel 13 side and a second right side partial panel 14b located on the front panel 12 side. In this case, the first right side partial panel 14a and the second right side partial panel 14b are each made from a single plate-like member. The first right side partial panel 14a is fixed to the rear panel 13. Furthermore, the second right side partial panel 14b is movable relative to the first right side partial panel 14a and foldable relative to the first right side partial panel 14a. This second right side partial panel 14b is rotatably and foldably attached to the first right side partial panel 14a via a first right side hinge member 24b (see Figures 18 and 19) located on the inner side (X-direction minus side) of the first right side partial panel 14a.

[0091] Similarly, the left side panel 15 has a first left side portion panel 15a located on the rear panel 13 side and a second left side portion panel 15b located on the front panel 12 side. In this case, the first left side portion panel 15a and the second left side portion panel 15b are each made from a single plate-like member. The first left side portion panel 15a is fixed to the rear panel 13. Furthermore, the second left side portion panel 15b is movable relative to the first left side portion panel 15a and foldable relative to the first left side portion panel 15a. This second left side portion panel 15b is rotatably and foldably attached to the first left side portion panel 15a via a first left side hinge member 25b (see Figures 18 and 19) located on the inner side (positive X direction side) of the first left side portion panel 15a.

[0092] Furthermore, the first right-side hinge member 24b and the first left-side hinge member 25b described above may each be composed of a connecting member such as a foldable connecting cloth, similar to the connecting members 24a, 25a and the bottom-side hinge member 26a.

[0093] In the assembled state (Figures 17 and 18), the first right side panel 14a and the first left side panel 15a are both positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane). In the folded state (Figures 19 and 20), the first right side panel 14a and the first left side panel 15a continue to be positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and the back panel 13 (parallel to the YZ plane). In contrast, the second right side panel 14b and the second left side panel 15b are folded inward relative to the first right side panel 14a and the first left side panel 15a, respectively. At this time, the second right side panel 14b and the second left side panel 15b are positioned between the folded bottom panel 16 and the front panel 12, and are positioned perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane) and parallel to the back panel 13 (ZX plane), respectively.

[0094] The multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments and variations can be combined as needed. Alternatively, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the above embodiments and variations. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 1 1st layer 2. Vacuum insulation material 2a Periphery 3 2nd layer 11. Top panel 12 Front Panel 13. Rear panel 14 Right side panel 15 Left side panel 16. Bottom panel p periphery

Claims

1. It is a panel, The first layer, Vacuum insulation material and The second layer and the following layers are provided in this order: A panel in which, when viewed along the lamination direction of the first layer, the vacuum insulation material, and the second layer, the periphery of the vacuum insulation material is surrounded by the second layer.

2. The panel according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed along the stacking direction, the distance from the periphery of the panel to the periphery of the vacuum insulation material is 1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

3. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the first layer is thinner than the thickness of the second layer.

4. The panel according to claim 3, wherein the thickness of the first layer is 0.1 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

5. An insulated container comprising the panel described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images