Thermally controlled container

Abstract

Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) are configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712). The containers include multiple walls, first and second temperature sensors (S1, S2), and a temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716). In response to determining that a first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system is configured to alter the airflow around the temperature-sensitive cargo by using at least first fans (F1, R3) to direct a first volume (V1) of conditioned air to a first location inside (114), and by using second fans (F2, R4) to direct a second volume (V2) of conditioned air to a second location inside, such that the first volume is greater than the second volume, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] 〔Priority〕 This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 524,765, entitled "Thermally Controlled Air Cargo Container Configured for Temperature Controlled Operation of Frozen to Controlled Room Temperature with Improved Efficiency and Contoured Flow", filed on July 3, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] 〔Field of Application〕 This application generally relates to cold chains or temperature-controlled transportation, and more specifically to cold chain transportation by commercial aircraft.

Background Art

[0003] Various high-value goods are transported within temperature-controlled containers, preferably by air cargo these high-value goods can include pharmaceuticals (e.g., vaccines, organic compositions, individually developed therapeutic agents, and / or perishable medical materials), food products (e.g., seafood, spices, meat, yeast, and / or perishable food items), and / or plants (e.g., flowers and / or seeds). For bulk loads, pallet-sized loads, and other similarly sized loads, large insulated transport containers can include insulation features that regulate the cargo temperature and minimize losses due to environmental conditions.

[0004] Generally, there are two types of shipping containers: (1) active containers and (2) passive containers. Active containers actively control the cargo temperature of the shipping container and include a control system that senses the temperature of the cargo compartment, and the control system instructs the heating and cooling systems to maintain and correct temperature deviations. Passive systems, on the other hand, do not have a control system and instead use pre-cooling materials for thermal capacitance. Passive systems may incorporate insulation to delay the parasitic temperature effect of the surroundings, similar to a typical ice cooler.

[0005] Air cargo containers and unit load devices (ULDs) attempt to achieve temperature control through heating and cooling systems, for example, for use on aircraft. Standalone active transport containers include their own heating and cooling systems for the cargo compartment (inside the container) without external power or connection. Standalone active containers may rely on batteries and heat conversion means. Furthermore, the performance of standalone active ULDs is limited by trade-offs between the energy added for thermal regulation, the environmental effects of losses, and the built-in energy stored in the battery. The better the insulation and the more efficient the control system, the longer the operating time.

[0006] The regulation of the cargo compartment and load in temperature-controlled ULDs can be plagued by underserved areas or regions. These underserved areas or regions may be due to several causes, including the initial flow path, the shape of the cargo compartment and load, and environmental influences. These environmental influences may include, for example, hot walls that may be exposed to the sun on hot days, the windward side on cold days, and / or the environmental effects of the door seal. Temperature-controlled ULDs may experience overheating or undercooling exposure near the regulated air outlet or in areas with low air resistance, and underserved exposure in more distant areas (e.g., corners or cracks). It is undesirable for a first part of the load to experience one extreme exposure and a second part of the load to experience another extreme condition (e.g., freezing at the rear and thawing at the front). [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] As a result, it is desirable that containers for temperature-sensitive cargo overcome these and other problems.

[0008] The accompanying drawings, incorporated herein and forming part thereof, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the general description of the invention above and the detailed description of the embodiments below, are useful in illustrating the principles of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A schematic cross-sectional view of a first exemplary container, including a fan shroud and an optional first recirculation fan, is drawn. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of the selected components of the container in Figure 1 is drawn. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram of the selected components of the container in Figure 1 is drawn. [Figure 4] A schematic cross-sectional view of the container in Figure 1, including the optional moisture absorption device, is shown. [Figure 5] A partial schematic cross-sectional view of the container in Figure 1 is drawn, including the optional moisture collector and storage container. [Figure 6] A schematic cross-sectional view of the container in Figure 1, including the second recirculation fan, is drawn. [Figure 7] Draw a front perspective view of the fan shroud and fan shown in Figure 1. [Figure 7A] Draw a cross-sectional view of Figure 7 along line 7A-7A. [Figure 8A] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the louvers and fan used with the container and Figure 6 show the fan shroud, with the louvers in a first position that obstructs the flow. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the louvers, but the louvers have been moved to a second position that guides the flow. [Figure 8C] Figure 8B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the louvers, which have been moved to a third position where their impact on the airflow is minimized. [Figure 9A] A schematic cross-sectional view of the torsion fan used with the container in Figure 1 and the fan shroud in Figure 6 is shown. [Figure 9B] A schematic perspective view of an axial fan, grouped as a pod used with the container in Figure 1 and the fan shroud in Figure 6, is shown. [Figure 10] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a tubular fan used with the container, and the tubular fan includes a rotor. [Figure 10A] Figure 10 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the rotor of the tubular fan. [Figure 11] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary method for controlling the container. [Figure 12] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of the container, with the door schematically shown and the airflow directed through the raised section of the upper wall. [Figure 13] Figure 12 shows a front perspective view of the container, with the temperature sensor positioned inside and the first stage of the airflow option moving towards the floor vents. [Figure 14] Figure 13 shows a front perspective view of the container, where the temperature value is obtained from a temperature sensor, and the first temperature-sensitive cargo is positioned inside during the first stage of the airflow. [Figure 15] Figure 12 shows a front perspective view of the container, with the second temperature-sensitive cargo positioned inside during the first stage of the airflow option, and the temperature value is indicated. [Figure 16] Figure 15 shows a front perspective view of the container during the first stage of the airflow options, and the temperature value is not indicated. [Figure 17] Figure 16 shows a front perspective view of the container and the temperature-sensitive cargo inside during the second stage of the airflow options. [Figure 18] Figure 17 shows a front perspective view of the container and the temperature-sensitive cargo inside during the third stage of airflow. [Figure 19] Draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 18 and the temperature-sensitive goods located inside, along with the cumulative flow of the first stage of the option, the second stage of the option, and the third stage. [Figure 20] Draw a front perspective view of the cumulative flow of the first stage of the option, the second stage of the option, and the third stage of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] It is to draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 12, but a third temperature-sensitive good is located inside during the first stage of the air flow option, and temperature values are described. [Figure 22] Draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 12 after the first stage of the air flow option, along with the temperature values. [Figure 23] Draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 22 and the temperature-sensitive goods inside during the second stage of the air flow option. [Figure 24] Draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 23 and the temperature-sensitive goods inside during the third stage of the air flow. [Figure 25] Draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 24 and the temperature-sensitive goods located inside, along with the cumulative flow of the first stage of the option, the second stage of the option, and the third stage. [Figure 26] Draw a front perspective view of the cumulative flow of the first stage of the option, the second stage of the option, and the third stage of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] Draw a rear perspective view of the second exemplary container. <� [Figure 28] It is to draw a front perspective view of the container of FIG. 27, with the door open, showing the first stage of the air flow option. [Figure 29] Draw a schematic diagram of the selected components of the third exemplary container. [Figure 30] Draw a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 29. [Figure 31] Draw a schematic diagram of the selected components of the fourth exemplary container including a recirculation fan. [Figure 32] Draw a schematic diagram of the container of FIG. 31. [Figure 33] Figure 31 shows a front perspective view of the container, which includes a phase change material container inside. [Figure 34] A magnified perspective view of the recirculation fan in Figure 32, including the fan, controller, and battery, is shown. [Figure 35] Figure 34 shows an enlarged perspective view of an alternative recirculation fan, similar to the recirculation fan shown, but including an opposing fan. [Figure 36] A magnified perspective view of an alternative recirculation fan is shown, similar to the recirculation fan in Figure 34, but including the controller and battery outside the recirculation fan. [Figure 37] A schematic perspective view of a selected component of a fifth exemplary container is drawn, with the front wall removed to expose the recirculation fan. [Figure 38] Draw a disassembled and assembled diagram of the container shown in Figure 37.

[0010] The drawings are not intended to limit in any way, and various embodiments of the invention are intended to be carried out in various other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and constituting part thereof illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, are helpful in illustrating the principles of the invention. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the exact configurations shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The following detailed description should be read in reference to the drawings. Similar elements in different drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals. Drawings, not necessarily in constant proportion, depict selected versions and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The detailed description is not intended to limit, but to illustrate the principles of the invention as an example. This description describes several versions, modifications, variations, alternatives and uses of the invention, including what is currently considered to be the best mode for carrying out the invention, making it clear to those skilled in the art that the invention can be manufactured and used.

[0012] Numerous specific details are provided to give a full understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the version described in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements are not described in detail so as not to obscure the version described in the specification. The reader will understand that the version described and illustrated herein is a non-limiting embodiment. It will be understood that certain structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and modifications thereto may be made without departing from the claims.

[0013] The terms “comprise” (and all forms of “comprise,” e.g., “comprises,” “comprising”), “have” (and all forms of “have,” e.g., “has,” “having”), “include” (and all forms of “include,” e.g., “includes,” “including”), and “contain” (and all forms of “contain,” e.g., “contains,” “containing”) are open linking verbs. As a result, a container, device, or apparatus that “includes,” “has,” “contains,” or “contains” one or more elements has, but is not limited to having only, those one or more elements. Similarly, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “includes,” “has,” “contains,” or “contains” one or more features has, but is not limited to having, those one or more features. For convenience and clarity, it will be further understood that spatial terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” may be used herein in reference to drawings. However, these terms are not intended to be restrictive and / or absolute.

[0014] Furthermore, terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” as used herein in relation to any numerical value, range of values, and / or geometric / situational quantification are intended to encompass not only the exact value or quantification being referenced, but also a suitable tolerance that enables the referenced feature or combination of features to function for the intended purposes described herein. For example, “substantially parallel” encompasses nominally parallel structures, and “substantially equal” values ​​encompass nominally equal values. Moreover, the use of “concatenating,” “concatenated,” or similar phrases should not be interpreted as limiting to a particular number of components or a particular order of components unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0015] The following description relating to specific embodiments of the Art should not be used to limit its scope. Other embodiments, features, aspects, forms, and advantages of the Art will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is one of the best modes intended to carry out the Art in practice. As will be understood, other different apparent embodiments of the Art described herein are possible without departing from the Art. Accordingly, the drawings and description should be considered illustrative and not limiting.

[0016] I. Exemplary container utilizing curved flow For example, there is increasing demand for temperature-sensitive cargo transported by air and land in the freezing temperature range (below approximately 0°C). Active containers with a non-freezing temperature range of approximately 5°C to 20°C may lack sufficient temperature control to accurately maintain the desired temperature range, overcome ambient temperature fluctuations, and / or overcome cargo shape variations. It is desirable to use containers that can achieve high-performance regulation across various sizes and shapes of cargo in a wide range of operating environments and environmental exposures. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the temperature control of transport containers to provide efficient energy management, comprehensive control, and / or comprehensive air circulation.

[0017] The effectiveness of a container is related to its performance, duration, and weight. Performance attributes include regulating cargo temperature across various shapes and sizes of cargo, overcoming losses due to container environmental exposure (environmental and radiation exposure), and uniformity of thermal regulation over cargo volume and shape. An appropriate duration is desirable based on the expected transit period. Weight should be minimized as it affects air cargo costs. Adequate flow and flow control, including in recirculation mode, is beneficial in addressing temperature regulation when heated or cooled air is stagnant or has poorly induced flow. Because cargo compartments and cargo shapes can vary, there may be unserviced sides, corners, or voids that become thermally undesirable.

[0018] Exemplary containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) are shown and described below with reference to Figures 1 to 38, and are intended to overcome these and other issues. Furthermore, containers (110, 410, 510) may include additional features similar to those shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 7,913,511, “Cargo Container for Transporting Temperature Sensitive Items,” issued March 29, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0019] A. First example container Figures 1 to 26 show and illustrate a first exemplary container (110) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112). The container (110) is sized as a unit load device. Although the container (110) is generally sized and configured to be transported / shipped by air, the container (110) may also be transported by other means (e.g., by land vehicle or ship). For example, the container (110) may be installed inside an aircraft (not shown) or a tractor trailer (not shown, may also be called a truck (lorry)).

[0020] The container (110) regulates the temperature of temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b) over the entire range of environmental conditions, size, and / or shape changes of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b). The container (110) selectively heats and / or cools the interior (114) of the container (110) to maintain the desired temperature of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b) within a predetermined temperature range over the duration of the container (110)'s transport. The predetermined temperature range includes a user-defined setpoint and an acceptable tolerance / deviation from there. This heating and / or cooling may be in response to overcoming ambient temperature exposure of the container (110) (e.g., the side of the container (110) heated by the sun or cold wind). For example, the container (110) may have a temperature range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C within an external environmental exposure range of approximately -30°C to approximately 50°C, but these temperature ranges may vary.

[0021] The container (110) can regulate temperature over a wide temperature range with high efficiency and long transit time. Efficiency can be optionally enhanced by utilizing high-power fans, highly reactive refrigerants, higher airflow circulation, dynamic circulation, more efficient flow generation, and / or moisture removal from the interior (114), which may also be called the cargo compartment, as will be described in more detail below. Further efficiency can be achieved using a comprehensive temperature and optional humidity sensor feedback configuration in conjunction with a temperature control system (116) to counteract adverse conditions such as large and asymmetrical cargo shapes, exposure to external and ambient temperatures, and / or increased asymmetric environmental effects.

[0022] Figures 1 and 2 show a container (110) which includes a temperature control system (116), a housing (122), a plurality of temperature sensors (S1 to S18), at least one battery (124) forming a battery pack (126), a battery charging connector (128), a power distribution system (130), an optional moisture sensor (132), and an optional container sensor (134). As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the temperature control system (116) includes a controller (136), a user interface (138), a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system (118), fans (F1 to F12), a fan shroud (142), and optional recirculation fans (R1 to R2). The temperature sensors (S1 to S18) include at least first and second temperature sensors (S1, S2). Similarly, the fans (F1 to F12) include at least first and second fans (F1 to F12). More or fewer temperature sensors (S1-S18), fans (F1-F12), and / or recirculation fans (R1-R2) are possible.

[0023] The battery (124) powers the temperature control system (116), and the power is distributed by the power distribution system (130) (see Figure 2). A single battery (124) may be used, or multiple batteries (124) may be used in combination to power the container (110). For example, a single battery (124) may be used over a short transport period to reduce the weight of the container (110). Similarly, smaller batteries (124) may be used over an even shorter transport period. Alternatively, multiple batteries (124) may be used when a longer transport period is desired. Each battery (124) may be in the form of a lead-acid battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery, and / or a lithium battery. NiMH batteries and / or lithium batteries may be used for longer durations. In some versions, the container (110) may be a standalone container (110) that does not use an external power source or connection for operation. In other words, the battery (124) can provide built-in energy storage and does not require an external power source or connection during transport, although it can be used as an option. In addition to charging the battery (124) before and / or after transport, the container (110) can optionally recharge the battery (124) at any point during transport (if desired) using the battery charging connector (128).

[0024] The housing (122) is formed by a plurality of walls, which include a first end wall (144), a second end wall (146), a first side wall (148) (see Figure 12), a second side wall (150) (see Figure 12), a top wall (152), and a bottom wall (154). The second end wall (146) is located opposite the first end wall (144). The second end wall (146) includes at least one door configured for loading and unloading temperature-sensitive cargo (112). The door (156) is schematically shown in Figure 12 and partially shown in Figures 13–19 and 21–25. The first side wall (148) is located between the first end wall (144) and the second end wall (146). The second side wall (150) is located between the first end wall (144) and the second end wall (146), on the opposite side of the first side wall (148).

[0025] The walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154) collectively define the interior (114) of the container (110). The interior (114) is configured to receive temperature-sensitive cargo (112). The temperature-sensitive cargo (112) may contain goods on one or more pallets (158). The interior (114) is configured to receive goods on at least one pallet (158). Alternatively, Figures 27-28 show another container (410) having an interior (414) sized and configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112b) on four US-sized pallets (not shown) or five European-sized pallets (160). The interior (114) may be sized and configured to accommodate more or fewer pallets (158, 160) and sizes of temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b).

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the bottom wall (154) is located on the opposite side of the top wall (152). The bottom wall (154) is positioned at a distance from the floor (162). As shown in the figure, the inner surface of the top wall (152) includes a plurality of protrusions (163) that form a recess (164), which is configured to allow airflow from the first end wall (144) to the second end wall (146) even when temperature-sensitive cargo (112) is stacked near the top wall (152). This is because air can still flow through the recess (164) formed by the protrusions (163). Similarly, the first side wall (148) and the second side wall (150) include a plurality of protrusions (165) that form a recess (167).

[0027] The walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154) may include insulation (illustrated as vacuum insulation panels (166)), but other types of insulation are also intended. As schematically shown in Figures 1 and 12, the first end wall (144), the second end wall (146), the first side wall (148), and the second side wall (150) each include insulation (e.g., at least one vacuum insulation panel (166)) positioned within the inner and outer surfaces of the walls (144, 146, 148, 150). The top wall (152) and bottom wall (154) may include at least one vacuum insulation panel (166).

[0028] As shown in Figures 1, 4-6, and 30, the bottom wall (154) and floor (162) collectively define a return airflow channel (168) configured to carry return air to a temperature control system (116) after regulating the interior (114). Since the airflow can return to the temperature control system (116) through the return airflow channel (168), temperature-sensitive cargo (112) can be placed inside (114) without pallets (158, 160). Vents (170) located in the floor (162) communicate with the return airflow channel (168). As shown in Figure 1, a floor fan (FF) can draw return air into the return airflow channel (168) by generating a pressure difference. The return airflow channel (168) provides a dedicated return air path beneath the temperature-sensitive cargo (112).

[0029] As shown in Figures 1, 16, and 22, the container (110) utilizes a positive pressure airflow system to generate and direct airflow from the rear ceiling (151) adjacent to the cold wall (172). As illustrated, the container (110) has a pressure return to a vent (170) located in the front lower section above the floor (162). This statically directs air across the shape of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112) and across the walls (144, 146, 148) and door (156) where heat loss may be greater than in more central locations inside (114) (e.g., where the cargo (112) is located). The return airflow channel (168) allows the cargo (112) to be stacked directly on the floor (162), eliminating the need for pallets (158, 160) as an option, thereby increasing the usable cargo volume. The return airflow channels (168) also allow containers (110) to be loaded loose. Having airflow at these locations allows the air pressure generated at the rear ceiling (151) to envelop the cargo (112). This is because the airflow is drawn across the cargo (112), which may have varying heights measured relative to the floor (162), and returns below the floor (162). This provides a uniform temperature distribution and operational efficiency as an optional baseline first stage.

[0030] Outflow is intended to refer to the positive pressure flow from the fans (F1-F12), and return air is intended to refer to the negative pressure flow. Exhaust is intended to refer to the recirculation of the airflow and not to the discharge of air from the inside (114) of the container (110) to the outside of the container (110). The return pressure affects the formation of high-pressure and low-pressure areas and thus the dynamic flow pattern. This pressure fluctuation mitigates the asymmetric loss effects of high or low temperature surfaces due to poorly serviced corners and cracks inside (114), the shape of temperature-sensitive cargo (112), and environmental conditions.

[0031] 1. Exemplary temperature control system The temperature control system (116) is configured to supply regulated air to the interior (114). The regulated air can be in the form of heated air or cooled air. In some versions, the temperature control system (116) is intended to maintain the interior (114) in a temperature range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C. However, other temperature ranges are also possible. The temperature control system (116) is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the container (110). The temperature control system (116) may include an electric-electronic control system.

[0032] The temperature control system (116) communicates with temperature sensors (S1-S18). As shown in Figures 1, 4-10A (and 29-32), the temperature control system (116) includes a number of fans, indicated as fans (F1-F12). However, more or fewer fans are also conceivable, and fans may be the same as or different from other fans. The first fan (F1) is configured to supply a dynamic curved airflow to a first location within the interior (114). Similarly, the second fan (F2) is configured to supply a dynamic curved airflow to a second location within the interior (114). The controller (136) is configured to provide group control or individual control of the fans (F1-F12), including the first and second fans (F1-F2). Individual fan / individual pod control allows for dynamic curved flow within the interior (114). Setting the selected fans (F1-F12) to different power levels affects the overall amount of regulated air directed, including the amount of regulated air that crosses the rear of the interior (114) and is directed to the first and second side walls (148, 150), allowing for the formation of high-pressure and low-pressure areas.

[0033] The temperature control system (116) includes an optional recirculation fan (R1) configured to operate independently of the HVAC system (118). As shown in Figures 1, 6, and 32, one or more optional recirculation fans (R1-R4) may be positioned close to the door (156) or, instead, away from the door (656) in Figure 32. In Figure 1, the recirculation fan (R1) is shown as a forward-mounted tubular fan that provides localized flow redirection. Using the temperature control system (116), the recirculation fans (R1, R2), or even the recirculation fans (R3, R4), can enhance curved flow to fill gaps in the cargo shape and standardize asymmetrical temperature distributions. The recirculation fans (R1, R2) may operate in parallel with the function of fans (F1-F12) mounted on the fan shroud (142) (see Figure 7).

[0034] The HVAC system (118) provides both heated and cooled air, and the HVAC system (118) may be omitted as shown in the container (610) in Figures 31–33. The HVAC system (118) includes a cooling system (174) configured to supply conditioned air as cooled air. In some versions, the cooling system (174) may include an evaporator (176) and a condenser (178). As shown, the evaporator (176) includes a plurality of evaporator coils (180). The condenser (178) includes a plurality of condenser coils (182) and a condenser fan (184). At least one of the evaporator (176) or the condenser (178) may include microfins (183) (see Figure 1) to increase the surface area in order to increase heat exchange. In some versions, the microfins (183) may have spacings of approximately 2.54 mm to 3.175 mm (approximately 0.1 inches to 0.125 inches). As shown in Figure 1, the condenser coil (182) and condenser fan (184) are separated from the evaporator coil (180) by an insulating wall (186). The HVAC system (118) includes a refrigerant (188), which may include a standard refrigerant (e.g., R134A refrigerant) or a highly reactive refrigerant (e.g., Type 404B). The HVAC system (118) can use either refrigerant.

[0035] The temperature control system (116) may optionally include a heater (190) which includes a heater coil (192) configured to supply regulated air as heated air. Depending on whether heating or cooling is desired, the heater (190) may be involved in supplying heated air, or the evaporator (176) of the HVAC system (118) may be involved in supplying cooled air used for primary operation and recirculation within the interior (114).

[0036] In addition to the multiple temperature sensors (S1-S18), the container (110) may include one or more optional moisture sensors (132) and / or optional container sensors (134). The moisture sensor (132) may be in the form of a hygrometer. The container sensor (134) may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, an accelerometer, a photodetector, and a pressure sensor.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the controller (136) may include memory (196), a processor (198), and a communication antenna (200). The controller (136) is configured to communicate with one or more user devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, computers) using the communication antenna (200), so that the user can track the status tracked by the temperature control system (116) in real time or retrospectively, at any location. The controller (136) operates via firmware or embedded software. The controller (136) utilizes multiple sensor inputs and feedback means. The user interface (138) may include a screen and buttons (194). As shown, the user interface (138) is configured to display at least one of the status, operation, setpoint control, power display, and operation input of the temperature control system (116). The user interface (138) may be accessed wirelessly via the cloud.

[0038] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the temperature control system (116) showing sensory input, user input, and mode input, and actuator output. As shown in Figures 1-3 and 6-7, the temperature control system (116) can selectively control fans (F1-F12), an HVAC system (118), and a user interface (138). The temperature control system (116) utilizes specially installed temperature sensors (S1-S18) (see Figures 13-26) arranged to achieve temperature profiles that apply the methods shown and described with reference to Figures 11-26.

[0039] 2. Empirical moisture removal and storage As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the container (110) may include optional means for extracting moisture and optional means for storing the removed moisture within the container (110). Means for moisture extraction may include a moisture absorber (202), a moisture collector (204), a storage tank (206), or other suitable structure. Figure 4 includes a moisture absorber (202) for removing moisture from conditioned air. The moisture absorber (202) may include a moisture-absorbing material (e.g., hygroscopic crystals or desiccants) for use in a moderately humid environment. The moisture-absorbing material is at least partially positioned within an upward-flowing return air channel (168). Alternatively, the moisture absorber may include a chamber configured to receive the moisture-absorbing material. The moisture absorber (202) is removable from the container (110) using an access door (208). The access door (208) may allow for easy removal or replacement of the moisture absorber (202) without opening the door (156). The moisture absorption device (202) may have various shapes and / or sizes (including cylindrical, prismatic, etc.).

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the container (110) may include a moisture collector (204) and / or a storage tank (206) for moisture extraction, and the storage container (110) is configured to store the removed moisture. Moisture inside (114) is collected as condensate as it drips from the evaporator coil (180) during operation and during optional defrosting modes. In some versions, the moisture collector (204) may include a dehumidifier. In high humidity environments, condensate is collected and stored under the floor (162) for later disposal using a tank (206) connected by a conduit (210). Increased humidity inside (114) increases the energy required for thermal control and reduces the efficiency of thermal regulation. Furthermore, excessive humidity can cause condensate buildup within the cooling system (174), which can lead to the undesirable accumulation of frost and ice. This buildup can reduce efficiency and lead to impaired circulation, thus reducing heat exchange.

[0041] Figure 6 shows another exemplary recirculation fan (R2) positioned close to the door (156). The recirculation fan (R2) may be positioned at least partially within the return airflow channel (168) to provide a localized airflow returning to the interior (114) for localized flow redirection. The recirculation fan (R2) enhances the curved flow to minimize the effect of gaps in the cargo shape and to normalize asymmetric temperature distribution. The recirculation fans (R1, R2) in Figures 1 and 6 may operate in parallel with the function of fans (F1-F12) mounted on the fan shroud (142). The forward-mounted recirculation fans (R1, R2) enhance the variability of the flow within the conformal flow control system, including axial flow fans located below the vents (e.g., left and right) and recirculation fans (R1, R2) located in the corners inside the door (156) of the container (110). The recirculation fans (R1, R2) do not restrict access to the cargo (112) and provide additional directional control and pressure fluctuations.

[0042] 3. Exemplary fan shrouds and fans Figure 7 shows an exemplary fan shroud (142). The fan shroud (142) houses multiple fans (F1-F12), which are optionally grouped as airflow pods (P1-P6). The positioning of the fans (F1-F12) is exemplary. Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a 12-fan arrangement in which high-efficiency, high-power axial-flow fans are provided within the fan shroud (142) to provide curved flow using individual or group control of the fans (F1-F12). As shown, the fans (F1-F12) are positioned within the fan shroud (142) through an opening (212). The first fan (F1) and the second fan (F2) are positioned close to the first end wall (144) and away from the door (156). Six airflow pods (P1-P6) are shown in Figure 7, each configured to house two fans and associated fan drivers. More or fewer airflow pods (P1-P6) are assumed, not shown, and each airflow pod (P1-P6) includes at least one fan. Each airflow pod (P1-P6) may include the same or different number of fans and / or the same or different types of fans. The airflow pods (P1-P6) may be angled to direct airflow at a desired angle to specific locations (e.g., first, second, and / or third locations) inside the container (110) (114).

[0043] The fan shroud (142) includes a trapezoidal recess (214) for guiding a certain volume of air. The fan shroud (142) includes four arcuate diverters (216), which can be in the form of a double-curved duct. The first arcuate diverter (216) is configured to assist the first fan (F1) in guiding a first volume (V1) of regulated air to a first location inside (114). Similarly, the second arcuate diverter (216) is configured to assist the second fan in guiding a second volume (V2) of regulated air to a second location inside (114). The arcuate diverters (216) optimize the flow rate and direction. The arc-shaped diverter (216) directs regulated air to a designated area of ​​the container (110), providing localized directional energy, as the directional flow generated at the cold wall (172) is reduced by the interior (114) near the door (156). As shown in Figure 7, the fan in pod (P1) is tilted toward the first side wall (148), and the fan in pod (P2) is tilted toward the second side wall (150). The fans in pods (P3, P4) are positioned horizontally, and the fans in pods (P5, P6) are positioned vertically. As shown in the figure, the airflow pods (P1-P6) are aligned with the trapezoidal recess (214) to direct the isolation of the pods (P1-P6) directly toward the upper wall (152).

[0044] The fan shroud (142) guides the airflow, provides space for heat exchange, provides mounting points for fans (F1-F12), and provides multiple ducts that separate the airflow and lead it into the interior (114). Optionally, the fans (F1-F12) may be positioned to enhance the dynamic effect of conformal flow. The fan shroud (142) separates the flow and establishes inflow and outflow air zones with respect to heat exchange. A static well (220) is configured to increase the static airflow within the interior (114). The static well (220) provides a predetermined space where the primary flow is drawn in to create a low pressure difference within the fans (F1-F12), thereby increasing the flow. The static well (220) between the heater and cooling system (174) and the fans (F1-F12) creates a higher air pressure, and therefore results in more efficient heat exchange. The arrangement of the fan shroud (142) and fans (F1-F12) forms a static pressure well (220) above the evaporator coil (180), improving the uniformity of the flow through the HVAC system (118). For example, the HVAC system (118) may include either an HVAC evaporator coil (see Figure 1) or a sublimation / dry ice radiator (see Figure 30). The fan shroud (142) also includes side walls (222). Although the fan shroud (142) is shown in Figure 7A as being formed from multiple panels, the fan shroud (142) may be formed integrally with each other as a single, one-piece component. As shown, the fans (F1-F12) are mounted on top and accessible from the cold wall (172). Although not shown, the fan shroud (142) may include mounting holes for fasteners (223) (see Figure 7A), as well as raceways and tie points for wiring.

[0045] Figure 7 shows a square axial flow fan, but the fans (F1-F12) can have various shapes and sizes, including rectangular or circular. The fans (F1-F12) are highly efficient, generate significant flow, and control the direction of flow. The fans (F1-F12) can be individually controlled for curved flow control to adjust areas currently underservice (UA) and walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152), and to compensate for the shape of irregular cargo.

[0046] As shown in Figures 8A to 8C, the temperature control system (116) may include an optional louver (224) that is selectively adjustable between multiple positions. As shown, the louver (224) includes a push-pull cable / rod (226) that is movable using the temperature control system (116). In other words, the movement of the louver (224) by the push-pull cable / rod (226) is controlled by a controller (136) of the temperature control system (116). In Figure 8A, the flow may be substantially blocked. In Figure 8B, the louver (224) is configured to direct a larger volume of air to at least a portion of a first volume (V1) to a first location. For example, the louver (224) may direct a larger volume to the first side wall (148) than to the second side wall (150), or vice versa. Alternatively, the louvers (224) can direct a larger volume towards the first end wall (144) than towards the second end wall (146), or vice versa, depending on the orientation of the louvers (224). In Figure 8C, the louvers (224) have minimal effect on the regulated airflow. Intermediate positions between those shown in Figures 8A and 8B, and between Figures 8B and 8C, are also conceivable.

[0047] Figures 9A, 9B, 10, and 10A show various types of fans suitable for use with the temperature control system (116). Fans (F1-F12) may include torsion fans (228) (see Figure 9A), axial fans (230) (see Figure 9B), or tubular fans (232) (see Figure 10). Fans (F1-F12) may be the same or different and may be used in combination with each other. For example, both the first fan (F1) and the second fan (F2) may be axial fans (230), or the first fan (F1) may be an axial fan (230) and the second fan (F2) may be a torsion fan (228). Other combinations of fans are also conceivable. Figure 9A schematically shows a torsional fan (228) that generates a tangential airflow, and Figure 9B schematically shows an axial fan (230) that generates a linear flow stream. The axial fan (230) can cover a larger width and further optimize the combined flow pattern with lower energy, thereby further improving efficiency. Figure 9A shows the optimization of the tangential fan airflow (T) and axial fan airflow (A), illustrating the energy draining turn, non-ideal flow, and directionality of the torsional fan (228) compared to the more linear flow path of the axial fan (230) for increased flow rate, volume, and coverage.

[0048] Figure 10 shows an optional tubular fan (232), also known as a slotted tubular fan, which is similar to the recirculation fan (R1) (see Figure 1). As shown, the tubular fan (232) includes a first axis (A1) and a second axis (A2) perpendicular to the first axis (A1). The length of the tubular fan (232) along the first axis (A1) is greater than the width along the second axis (A2). The first axis (A1) is shown as extending vertically. The tubular fan (232) may be positioned near the door (156). The tubular fan (232) primarily collects air from a rotor (234) located at the end (enlarged in Figure 10A) and exhausts it through slots (236) along a narrow body, mainly for local recirculation. The tubular fan (232) has a small diameter and fits discreetly into corners or along ridges. As shown in Figure 10A, the rotor (234) may include fins (238).

[0049] 4. First Exemplary Method An exemplary method (310) using the container (110) shown in Figures 1 to 6 is described with reference to Figures 11 to 26. Method (310) also applies to containers (410, 510, 610, 710) shown and described with reference to Figures 27 to 30. Figure 12 shows an empty interior (114) with the door (156) open, showing a vent (170) and a floor (162), below which is the return air path.

[0050] As shown in the comparative Figures 13 to 15, in step (312) of Figure 11, the temperature sensors (S1 to S18) sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. The temperature control system (116) is configured to receive temperature values ​​from the temperature sensors (S1 to S18) located inside (114) of the container (110). For example, the first temperature sensor (S1) senses a first temperature value at a first location inside (114), the second temperature sensor (S2) senses a second temperature value at a second location inside (114), the third temperature sensor (S3) senses a third temperature value at a third location inside (114), the fourth temperature sensor (S4) senses a fourth temperature value at a fourth location inside (114), and similarly, additional temperature sensors (S5 to S18) sense additional temperature values ​​at additional locations inside (114). The first, second, third, and fourth locations are all separated from each other. The temperature sensors (S1-S18) can optionally sense temperature values ​​outside the container (110).

[0051] The positioning of the temperature sensors (S1-S18) is for illustrative purposes only. For example, in some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a first portion of the first end wall (144), and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a second portion of the first end wall (144). In some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned near a first side wall (148), and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned near a second side wall (150). In some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on the first side wall (148), and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on the second side wall (150). In some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112), and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a second portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112). In some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned near a first side wall (148), and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo. In some versions, temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo, and other temperature sensors (S1-S18) are positioned near a first side wall (148).

[0052] The temperature control system (116) is configured to receive first, second, third, and / or fourth temperature values ​​from first, second, third, and fourth temperature sensors (any of the temperature sensors (S1 to S18)). The temperature control system (116) is configured to determine whether at least one of the first, second, third, and / or fourth temperature values ​​is outside a predetermined temperature range. The predetermined temperature range may include a setpoint and any allowable deviation from that setpoint. In some versions, the setpoint is a single numerical value, and in other versions, the setpoint is a numerical range including a lower limit and an upper limit.

[0053] Figure 13 shows a typical flow profile of an empty cargo container (110) in stationary mode, where temperature sensors (S1-S18), schematically shown as small circles, are spaced apart along the inner surfaces of the interior walls (148, 150, 152) and floor (162) of the interior (114), and the normal static airflow path (arrows) from the exhaust pipe to the return duct through which the interior (114) is emptied.

[0054] As shown in Figure 14 or Figure 15, in an optional step (314), the temperature control system (116) may supply regulated air to the interior (114). Figure 14 shows the optional first-stage flow profile for a medium-sized cargo. The airflow is the means of convection for the temperature control to be achieved. As shown in Figure 14, the more efficiently and completely the temperature control is performed, the better the cargo temperature is maintained. Fans drive the circulation of air. Using a larger number of small fans improves flow and efficiency. The temperature control system (116) may utilize an algorithm that matches the energy and flow requirements affecting the temperature in order to maintain the temperature of the entire cargo compartment based on the sensed temperature data.

[0055] As shown in Figures 14-16, in some versions, the temperature control system (116) can supply regulated air to first and second locations. In some versions, the temperature control cycle begins with an optional first-stage baseline analysis of the internal (114) temperature. Multiple stages allow temperature sensors (S1-S18) to assess the causes of temperature deviations, external influences, and potential heat losses. In some versions, temperature sensors may be located only inside (114). The optional first-stage baseline analysis utilizes an initial central circulation or static circulation for several minutes, as shown in Figure 18, and once the initial flow is established, as shown in Figure 16, the temperature control system (116) can automatically reconfigure the airflow characteristics, as shown in Figures 17 and 18. For example, multiple stages can elicit their own responses to heat exchange, under conditions that a second flow rate, direction, or pressure difference has a different response, resulting in more complete coverage and homogeneous temperature control. Temperature sensors (S1-S18) detect energy imbalances and provide feedback on the differences in the desired flow.

[0056] Figure 15 shows the first stage of options for a medium-sized cargo, illustrating adequate temperature control of the cargo (solid arrows) in a 30°C environment, and the unserviced cargo area regions, including the upper and lower corners. Figure 15 shows a schematic flow profile of a large-shaped cargo in static mode with the first sidewall (148) exposed to heat. Unlike Figure 14, where the flow is sufficient to maintain a predetermined temperature range, Figure 15 shows that the air stream at the far right does not adequately compensate for the heat (dashed line) in this cooling illustration, and the predetermined temperature range of approximately 2°C to 8°C in the center and lower right is not maintained due to the effect of the heated first sidewall (148). Figure 15 also shows that the temperature control system (116) is operating more strongly for compensation, but still keeping the section of the cargo near the exhaust pipe (112a) below the predetermined temperature range. Figure 15 illustrates the inadequate maintenance of cargo temperature due to large volumes, particularly the right wall exposed to heat typical of sun exposure, and less-serviced cargo areas including the upper and lower corners. Figure 15 shows the limitations of static flow distribution with large loads, asymmetric loads, and extreme external temperature exposure. Figure 15 illustrates the shortcomings of the static flow pattern (e.g., corners, irregular shapes, cracks, overloaded conditions, high or low temperature walls).

[0057] Figure 16 shows a schematic flow profile of a large-shaped cargo with a first sidewall (148) exposed to heat (indicated by the dashed line on the right). The temperature control system (116) can repeatedly test thermal consistency and general circulation under non-uniform conditions. In other words, an optional first stage can be repeated. The temperature control system (116) can perform an optional first stage configured to provide flow for a short period of time. The temperature control system (116) measures and interprets the temperature level. The temperature control system (116) considers various flow configurations when evaluating this large cargo with a heated first sidewall (148).

[0058] As shown in Figures 11 and 17, in an optional step (316), before delivering the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location, the temperature control system (116) may provide a third volume (V3) of conditioned air to the first location and a fourth volume (V4) of conditioned air to the second location. The fourth volume (V4) of air may be greater than or less than the third volume (V3). In an optional step (316), temperature sensors (S1-S18) may sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. In an optional step (318), the temperature control system (116) determines whether the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside a predetermined temperature range. If it is not outside the range, the method (310) may return to step (314) indicated by the arrow (320). In an optional step (322), as shown in Figure 17, the temperature control system (116) may direct a larger volume of regulated air to the second location compared to the first location. Figure 17 shows the optional step 2, where the temperature control system (116) configures and increases the airflow within the second pod (P2) for a short duration. The temperature control system (116) determines the effect of the flow at the left end on the temperature sensor. The dashed line shows how the flow at the right end warms up as it interacts with the hotter first sidewall (148).

[0059] In step (324), temperature sensors (S1-S18) sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. In step (326), the temperature control system (116) determines whether the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside a predetermined temperature range. If it is not outside the range, method (310) can return to step (328). If the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside the predetermined temperature range, method (1310) can proceed to step (330). In step (330), the temperature control system (116) directs a larger volume of regulated air to the first location compared to the second location. Figure 18 shows the third stage, where the temperature control system (116) increases the airflow for the first pod (P1) including the first fan (F1). Based on the temperature sensors (S1-S18), the temperature control system (116) measures and interprets the effect of the flow at the right end. In Figure 18, the dashed line represents how the flow warms up as the air interacts with the hotter first sidewall (148).

[0060] In response to determining that the first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system (116) is configured to (A) use at least a first fan (F1) to guide a first volume (V1) of conditioned air to a first location inside (114), and (B) use a second fan (F2) to guide a second volume (V2) of conditioned air to a second location inside (114). The positions of the first volume (V1) and the second volume (V2) are illustrative. Since the first volume (V1) of air is larger than the second volume (V2) of air, the temperature change at the first location is larger than the temperature change at the second location. The first volume (V1) generates a first pressure, and the second volume generates a second pressure. Since the first volume (V1) is larger than the second volume (V2), the first pressure is greater than the second pressure. As air moves from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure, the air moves from location 1 to location 2. During this movement, the regulated air flows around the cargo (112, 112a, 112b), allowing the cargo (112, 112a, 112b) to be aerated.

[0061] The first volume (V1) may be derived simultaneously with the second volume (V2) or sequentially with respect to the second volume (V2). With respect to sequential distribution, the first volume (V1) may be distributed before or after the second volume (V2). The first and second volumes may be influenced by historical data showing the impact of the previous use of the first volume (V1) and second volume (V2) on previous locations, as well as artificial intelligence, including machine learning used by the temperature control system (116). Optionally, the temperature control system (116) is configured to receive a third temperature value from a third temperature sensor (S3) located at a third location inside (114). The temperature control system (116) is configured to determine whether at least one of the first, second, or third temperature values ​​is outside a given temperature range.

[0062] In a cooling situation, the temperature control system (116) determines whether the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature range (i.e., whether the measured temperature exceeds an upper tolerance). For example, in response to determining that the first temperature value is below the predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system (116) is configured to (A) guide a first volume (V1) of cooling air to a first location using at least a first fan, and (B) guide a second volume (V2) of cooling air to a second location using a second fan (F2). In a cooling scenario, since the first volume (V1) is larger than the second volume (V2), the temperature drop at the first location is greater than the temperature drop at the second location.

[0063] Under heating conditions, the temperature control system (116) uses temperature sensors (S1-S18) to determine whether the measured temperature falls below a predetermined temperature range (i.e., whether the measured temperature falls below a lower tolerance). For example, in response to determining that the first temperature value falls below a predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system (116) may (A) use at least a first fan (F1) to direct a first volume (V1) of heated air to a first location inside (114), and (B) use a second fan (F2) to direct a second volume (V2) of heated air to a second location inside (114). Since the first volume (V1) of air is greater than the second volume (V2) of air, the temperature rise at the first location is greater than the temperature rise at the second location. Additional fans, such as fans (F3-F12), may operate in the same manner as the first fan (F1) and the second fan (F2).

[0064] The temperatures at the first, second, third, and / or fourth locations can be selectively modified using a variety of methods. For example, the temperature control system (116) can control the airflow in the active static case and the active dynamic case. Increasing the airflow inside (114) helps to thermally regulate the temperature-sensitive cargo (112) by minimizing non-suitable areas that cause degradation or loss. The temperature control system (116) senses temperature fluctuations according to various flow configurations based on factors including the shape of the cargo. The temperature control system (116) can continuously learn and adjust parameters of flow rate, flow configuration, duty cycle, and recirculation to form the optimal flow shape as shown in Figures 19-20 and 25-26.

[0065] Curved flow allows for variations in intensity and dynamic direction. This flow can be used in both active and semi-passive systems, in both primary control and recirculation modes. Curved flow provides better temperature control at lower energy levels and captures dynamic fluctuations more thoroughly. This circulation results in different airflow directions within the interior (114) and around the cargo itself (e.g., in the case of non-standard or unknown shapes). Pressure-induced directional flow can be generated not only in the middle of the cargo shape (112) but also at the first sidewall (148), top wall (152), and second sidewall (150).

[0066] The arrangement and individual control of the fans (F1-F12) and the air duct structure (e.g., using arc diverters (216) and / or louvers (224)) can be controlled. In some versions, the temperature control system (116) can increase the speed setting of the first fan (F1) and / or decrease the speed setting of the second fan (F2). The temperature control system (116) can vary the fan (F1-F12) pattern between or within pods. The fan speed can be selectively changed in specific locations (or zones) to adjust the temperature of selected zones of the container (110) through constant operation or by pulses. For example, pulse-width modulation (PWM) speed control can be incorporated by driving the fan motor with a series of "ON-OFF" pulses and varying the duty cycle. For example, a first fan (F1) may provide a first volume (V1) of air using a series of on-off pulses, and / or a second fan (F2) may provide a second volume (V2) of air using a series of on-off pulses. When applied to cargo (112, 112a, 112b) and interior (114), this method (310) achieves improved temperature control, as shown in Figures 19-20 and 25-26.

[0067] The temperature control system (116) can change the flow rate of one fan (F1-F12) relative to another fan (for example, the first fan (F1) relative to the second fan (F2)). For example, the temperature control system (116) can use the first fan (F1) to guide a first volume (V1) of regulated air at a first flow rate to a first location inside (114), and use the second fan (F2) to guide a second volume (V2) at a second flow rate to a second location inside (114). Since the first flow rate is greater than the second flow rate, the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location. In some versions, the temperature control system (116) can automatically adjust the flow rate of the first fan (F1) relative to the second fan (F2).

[0068] A first fan (F1) can direct a first volume (V1) to a first location over a first time. Similarly, a second fan (F2) can direct a second volume (V2) of conditioned air to a second location over a second time. Since the first time is longer than the second time, the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

[0069] Additional fans may be used to direct airflow to additional areas that are not adequately serviced. For example, in response to determining that a first temperature value and a third temperature value are outside a predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system (116) may (A) use at least a first fan (F1) to direct a first volume (V1) of conditioned air to a first location within the interior (114), (B) use a second fan (F2) to direct a second volume (V2) of conditioned air to a second location within the interior (114), and (C) use at least a third fan (F3) to direct a third volume (V3a) (see Figure 19) of conditioned air to a third location within the interior (114). Since the first volume of air (V1) is greater than the third volume (V3a), and the third volume (V3a) is greater than the second volume (V2), the temperature change at the first location is greater than the change at the third location, and the change at the third location is greater than the temperature change at the second location. Alternatively, if only the first temperature value is outside the given temperature range, the first fan (F1) and the third fan (F3) can direct the first volume (V1) to the first location, and the second fan (F2) can direct the second volume (V2) to the second location inside (114). Alternatively, the first fan (F1) can direct the first volume (V1) of regulated air to the first location while the third fan (F3) is stopped and not directing air.

[0070] Figure 19 shows the duty cycle of the regulated flow superimposed on the cargo (112), indicating that the temperature control system (116) interpreted the sensor inputs and regulated the curved flow. In this embodiment, the airflow is increased in the right-hand flow, showing standardized internal (114) and cargo temperatures, all shown cargo temperatures are within a predetermined temperature range (e.g., approximately 2°C to 8°C). Figures 19–20 show the total result of all stages of flow regulated by the temperature control system (116) to standardize the internal (114) temperature, and the resulting increase in internal (114) and cargo temperature regulation, as well as flow to unserviced areas due to location or shape. Figure 20 shows all stages of flow (left end, standard, right end) simultaneously. The cumulative effect (or sum) of all flow profiles by the method (310) prioritizing the heavier weight of the first pod (P1) compensates for external heat exposure to the right wall. The thicker the line, the larger the flow volume due to increased fan power and / or a longer duty cycle.

[0071] In response to directing a first volume (V1) of conditioned air to a first location and a second volume (V2) of conditioned air to a second location, method (310) may return to step (312) of sensing temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside, as indicated by the temperature sensors (S1-S18) indicated by the arrows (332). Alternatively, step (330) may return to step (324) by omitting the optional first and second stages.

[0072] 5. Second Exemplary Method As shown in Figure 21, in step (312) of Figure 11, temperature sensors (S1-S18) sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. Figure 21 shows a temperature control system (116) configuring fans (F1-F12) for a static mode flow profile for this large asymmetric load with the first side wall (148) exposed to heat. The temperature control system (116) measures and interprets the temperature level. Dashed lines represent flows exposed to higher temperatures. In Figure 21, in the optional step (314) of Figure 11, the temperature control system (116) may supply regulated air to the interior (114).

[0073] Figure 21 shows a schematic flow profile of a large asymmetric cargo (112) in static mode with the right wall exposed to heat. Figure 21 shows that the central air stream does not reach the sides of the cargo due to the irregular shape which creates unserviced circulation areas, and that the air stream at the right edge (dashed streamline) does not adequately manage the heat by the warmer panel and does not maintain the desired cargo load setpoint of approximately -8°C to approximately 2°C. Figure 21 shows the undesirable effects of temperature regulation due to the combination of an asymmetric cargo and extreme exposure at the right wall, specifically showing that there are unserviced areas (UA) not only at the corners but also at cracks that may be present in various cargoes.

[0074] The temperature control system (116) can enhance temperature regulation in the case of irregular cargo shapes of cargo (112), which themselves have corners, cracks, other obstacles to normal static circulation, and the potential for external losses due to extreme exposure. As shown in Figures 22–24, the temperature control system (116) can perform optional multi-stage evaluation of the temperature distribution of temperature-sensitive cargo despite different flow configurations and volumes. As shown in Figure 26, the temperature control system (116) can provide optimal flow characteristics for irregularly shaped cargo and enhance cargo temperature regulation. The method (310) incorporates changes in cargo, internal (114), and / or external temperature effects.

[0075] Figures 22–24 illustrate examples of flow increase in the center (stationary) (Figure 22), left edge (Figure 23), and right edge (Figure 24) in three stages, evaluating temperature control considerations in this asymmetric load where the walls are exposed to high temperatures. The first exposed side wall (148) is more affected because it is close to the highest temperature deviation.

[0076] In an optional step (316), temperature sensors (S1-S18) may sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. In an optional step (318), the temperature control system (116) determines whether the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside a predetermined temperature range. If it is not outside the predetermined temperature range, method (310) may return to step (314) indicated by arrow (320). In an optional step (322), as shown in Figure 23, the temperature control system (116) may direct a larger volume of regulated air to the second location compared to the first location. Figure 23 shows the operation of the temperature control system (116) in the optional second stage. The temperature control system (116) may reconfigure and increase the airflow in the left end duct. This can also be used to measure and interpret the effect of the left end flow on the temperature sensors (S1-S18) based on feedback from the temperature sensors. The dashed line indicates a slightly higher return airflow due to the hotter first sidewall (148).

[0077] In step (324), temperature sensors (S1-S18) sense temperature values ​​at various locations inside (114) and / or outside. In step (326), the temperature control system (116) determines whether the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside a predetermined temperature range. If it is not outside the predetermined temperature range, method (310) can return to step (328). If the first temperature value at at least the first location is outside the predetermined temperature range, method (1310) can proceed to step (330). As shown in Figure 24, in step (330) of Figure 11, the temperature control system (116) directs a larger volume of regulated air to the first location compared to the second location. Figure 24 shows the operation of the third stage, where the temperature control system (116) increases the flow in the rightmost duct for a short period of time. The temperature control system (116) determines the influence of the flow at the right end from the temperature sensors (S1~S18), especially when absorbing external thermal / cold energy (shown by the dashed line).

[0078] Figure 25 shows increased flow through multiple passages to reduce or eliminate unserviced areas, which increases standardization and subsequently brings thermal equilibrium to the entire load even with asymmetric loads and hot walls, and the complex surface of flow created by differential pressure provides increased flow to unserviced areas (UA), thus providing temperature standardization. An embodiment of an externally heated first side wall (148) and a temperature control system (116) overcomes this exposure and achieves cargo temperature standardization of the exposed surface in both high-temperature and low-temperature exposure conditions. Figures 25-26 show the total flow rate results at all stages in an embodiment of an asymmetric load regulated by the temperature control system (116) to standardize the internal (114) temperature, and the resulting improved temperature control of the internal (114) and the load.

[0079] Figure 26 shows all stages of the flow (left end, standard, right end) simultaneously with the container (110) removed for greater clarity. The sum of all flow profiles using this exemplary method (310) favors the thickness of the thicker lines. This volume increase in step (330) may be due to the higher fan power and / or increased duty cycle of the first pod (P1) using the right end duct to compensate for external heat exposure at the first side wall (148), and also demonstrates the advantages of multi-passage flow in meeting thermal normality in an underserved area.

[0080] B. Second example container Figures 27 and 28 show a second exemplary container (110). Container (410) is similar to container (110) shown and described above with reference to Figures 1 to 26, unless otherwise indicated below. Container (410) has a larger interior (414) than container (110) and generally accommodates goods equivalent to four US pallets or five Euro pallets. However, it is conceivable that container (410) may have a variety of different shapes. Container (410) has a different size and volume than container (110) in Figures 1 to 26, but is similarly capable of temperature control in the range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C and has the advantages of improved efficiency in regulating air and curved flow. As shown in Figure 28, there are multiple airflow pods (P1 to P6) for a dynamic curved flow pattern. However, more or fewer pods and fans are also conceivable.

[0081] As shown in Figures 27 and 28, the housing (422) is formed by a plurality of walls, including a first end wall (444), a second end wall (446), a first side wall (448), a second side wall (450), a top wall (452), and a bottom wall (454). The container (410) also includes a rear ceiling (451) adjacent to a cold wall (472), and a floor (462). A vent (470) located in the floor (462), as well as a return airflow channel (168), communicates with the return airflow channel (468). The container (410) includes a controller (436) shown in Figures 27 and 29, which is similar to the controller (136). Similarly, the first side wall (448) and the second side wall (450) include a plurality of projections (465) that form a recess (467).

[0082] C. Third exemplary container Figures 29–30 show a third exemplary container (510) including a hybrid (or semi-passive) system. Container (510) is similar to container (110) shown and described above with reference to Figures 1–26, unless otherwise indicated below. Similar to the temperature control system (116), the temperature control system (516) includes a heater (590) and a cooling system (574). However, the cooling system (574) includes a cooling material for the hybrid / semi-passive cooling operating mode. As shown, the cooling material may include a container (584) containing a sublimation material (580) and / or a phase change material. The sublimation material (580) may include blocks of dry ice in the form of one or more blocks, pellets, and / or shavings. The cooling material provides a passive cold energy source in the cooling mode, usually in response to container (110) being in a higher temperature environment. The cryogenic reservoir may consist of multiple pre-conditioned containers (584) containing sublimation-based materials such as dry ice, or phase-change materials (similar to the container (684) containing phase-change material in Figure 33). The containers (584) may be secured using racks (685). The cooling material extends cryogenic operation for longer performance, particularly during transport.

[0083] As shown in the figure, the cooling system (574) includes a sublimation heat exchanger (576) and a sublimation material container (578) configured to receive sublimation material (580), replacing the evaporator (176) and condenser (178) of Figures 1 and 2. The sublimation heat exchanger (576) is configured to supply cooling air to the interior (114). The sublimation heat exchanger (576) includes a radiator (586). The sublimation material (580) can be added to and removed from the container (110) using an access door (582). The access door (582) allows for easy removal of the sublimation material (580) without opening the door (156). As shown in the figure, at least one of the first end wall (544), the second end wall (546), the first side wall (548), or the second side wall (550) includes an optional removable container (584).

[0084] A temperature control system (516) using dry ice as the sublimation material (580) may have a setpoint below approximately -20°C. The container (510) achieves an extended temperature control range (approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C) without an HVAC system (118). This predetermined temperature range can be obtained by increasing the flow rate. For example, temperatures of approximately -40°C to approximately -30°C can be obtained by sacrificing the duration of the thermal control time due to the fixed capacity of the sublimation material (580) (e.g., dry ice), and therefore the available energy. For example, a hybrid system using both active power and both dry ice and / or phase change material can enable longer transport periods. This may be similar to the container (610) shown and described with reference to Figures 31-33, but additionally including a sublimation heat exchanger (576) as shown in Figure 30. A cooling system (574) allows the container (510) to operate down to a temperature of approximately -79°C.

[0085] The cooling energy is transferred from inside the fan shroud (542) to the interior (514), or installed inside the interior (514), including walls or ceilings that may be adversely affected by heat or sunlight exposure. One or more fans (F1-12) may be used to recirculate the cool air or, in the case of a removable container with a radiator, to facilitate heat exchange across the surface of the contained material. In this case, heat transfer in the cooling mode involves drawing airflow across a replaceable or refillable container (110) containing dry ice, using heat exchange means (e.g., a microfin radiator attachment) located where the evaporator coil (180) was located inside the container (110). The battery (524) drawdown is lower and therefore lasts longer even if it is the same size, or a smaller battery can be used for the same duration as the container (110) shown in Figures 1-2. The container (510) includes a plurality of temperature sensors, which may be similar to the temperature sensors (S1 to S18) shown and described above.

[0086] D. Fourth Exemplary Container Figures 31–33 show a fourth exemplary container (610), similar to the container (110) shown and described above with reference to Figures 1–26, unless otherwise indicated below. Container (610) is shown as a passive container without an HVAC system (118). Container (710) includes multiple walls, including a first end wall (644), a second end wall (646), a first side wall (648), a second side wall (650), a top wall (652), and a bottom wall (654). The walls (644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654) collectively define the interior (614) of container (610).

[0087] The temperature control system (616) is configured to uniformly conditioned the air inside (614). The temperature control system (616) includes a cooling material (622). Similar to the container (510) in Figures 29-30, the cooling material (622) may be a sublimation material (580) and / or a phase change material. Recirculation fans (R3, R4) provide recirculation of the air inside (114) without using an HVAC system (118) as shown and described above, which produces conditioned air. The temperature control system (616) may direct a first volume (V1) of air to a first location inside (614) using at least a first fan, illustrated as a recirculation fan (R3). Furthermore, the temperature control system (616) may direct a second volume (V2) of air to a second location inside (614) using a second fan, illustrated as a recirculation fan (R4). Since the first volume of air (V1) is greater than the second volume of air (V2), the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location. As shown in the figure, the recirculation fans (R3, R4) are positioned close to the first end wall (644) and away from the door (656). Alternatively, the recirculation fans (R3, R4) may be positioned close to the second end wall (646) and the door (656).

[0088] Figure 31 shows the curved flow within a passive container (610) used only in recirculation mode. Air recirculation results in a more uniform temperature inside (614). The container (610) has no active means to heat or cool the cargo to a set point. Recirculation fans (R3, R4) may omit the “set point”. A passive container (610) (e.g., used for air cargo transport) may use multiple pre-conditioned phase-change material blocks or cartridges (684) that line the sides, doors, and roof of the container (610). These cartridges (684) are placed between the temperature-sensitive cargo and the interior (614) walls. Insulation (e.g., vacuum insulation panels) is positioned between the interior and exterior surfaces as part of the structure. A passive container (610) is exposed to the same external temperature influences as active and semi-passive containers, mainly due to heat and sunlight. Therefore, it is desirable to minimize the effects of rising side temperatures, which can cause a non-uniform temperature distribution within the interior (614) of the container (610). By including internal recirculation based on temperature sensor input, a more standardized temperature distribution within the interior (614) can be obtained and subsequently maintained.

[0089] The recirculation fans (R3, R4) may be standalone devices housing one or more batteries (624), a temperature sensor, and a controller. For example, a temperature control system (616) that operates the curved flow, batteries, temperature sensors, and fans may be housed in a standalone cylinder or stack. The recirculation fans (R3, R4) may be powered by an optional solar panel (655) located on the upper wall (652). The recirculation fans (R3, R4) may be connected via a wired connection or wirelessly. Communication from the controller (136) of the temperature control system (616) can drive the function of the recirculation fans (R3, R4) located at other corners of the container (610). As shown in the figure, the communication line (620) allows one main control unit (e.g., a recirculation fan (R3)) to coordinate control at temperature sensors (S1, S2) and operate additional auxiliary units (e.g., second, third, fourth, etc.) located in other areas of the interior (114), such as a recirculation fan (R4). It is also envisioned that the main unit and auxiliary units may communicate wirelessly (including, for example, via Bluetooth communication).

[0090] Figures 34–36 show exemplary recirculation fans (R3, R3a, R3b) used in containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) instead of recirculation fans (R1, R2, R4, R5, R6). In particular, Figure 34 shows a recirculation fan (R3) including a controller (686) and a battery (688), with the airflow direction indicated by an arrow (690). The controller (686) may be similar to the controller (136). The battery (688) may be similar to the battery (124), but may be smaller (e.g., including fewer ampere-hours) to adequately power the fan. As shown in Figure 34, the controller (686), battery (688), and axial fan (690) are located within the recirculation fan (R3). Figure 35 shows a recirculation fan (R3a), which includes a controller (686), a battery (688), and an axial fan (690), but also includes a reverse axial fan (692) that directs air in a second direction opposite to the first direction. This configuration allows the recirculation fan (R3a) to direct air in a first direction indicated by arrow (694) using the axial fan (690), or in a second direction indicated by arrow (696) using the axial fan (692), where the second direction is opposite to the first direction. This bidirectional airflow can also be achieved using a bidirectional fan (not shown). Figure 36 shows a recirculation fan (R3b), where the controller (686) and battery (688) are not located within the recirculation fan (R3b), but rather are connected to the recirculation fan (R3b) by wire (698).

[0091] E. Fifth Exemplary Container Figures 37-38 show a fifth exemplary container (710), similar to the container (610) shown and described above with reference to Figures 31-36, unless otherwise indicated below. Container (710) is shown as a passive modular container without an HVAC system (118). Container (710) can be manually converted from a generally flat configuration that reduces volume during transport when not containing temperature-sensitive cargo to an assembled configuration as shown in Figure 37 for transporting temperature-sensitive cargo. Container (710) includes multiple walls, including a first end wall (744), a second end wall (746), a first side wall (748), a second side wall (750), a top wall (752), and a bottom wall (754). The walls (744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) collectively define the interior (714) of container (710). The interior (714) is configured to receive temperature-sensitive cargo (712). The container (710) includes several temperature sensors (S1-S4) shown as being located outside the recirculation fans (R3-R6). However, more or fewer temperature sensors are also conceivable. The container (710) includes a temperature control system (716) similar to the temperature control system (616).

[0092] The container (710) includes a plurality of removable containers (756) for containing phase change material. If necessary, the plurality of removable containers (756) can be connected to one another or inserted into foldable sleeves (758) of the walls (744, 746, 748, 750). The bottom surfaces of the walls (744, 746, 748, 750) are configured to be selectively positioned within grooves (764) of the bottom wall (754). Similarly, the top surfaces of the walls (744, 746, 748, 750) are configured to be selectively positioned within grooves (not shown) of the upper wall (752). The bottom wall (754) is positioned on a pallet (760).

[0093] Similar to container (610), container (710) includes at least one recirculation fan, recirculation fans (R3-R6) shown in Figures 37-38. The recirculation fans (R3-R6) are shown spaced apart from the top wall (752) and bottom wall (754). The recirculation fans (R3-R6) may be similar to the recirculation fans (R1, R2, R3a, R3b) shown and described above. In some versions, the recirculation fans (R3-R6) may be powered by an optional solar panel (762) located on the top wall (652). As shown in the figures, the recirculation fans (R3, R4) direct air in a first direction (shown as upward), and the recirculation fans (R5, R6) direct air in a second direction (shown as downward). Alternatively, the recirculation fans (R3, R5) can direct air in a first direction (e.g., upward), and the recirculation fans (R4, R6) can direct air in a second direction (e.g., downward), so that the diagonally opposite fans direct air in the same direction. The recirculation fans (R3-R6) can interact wirelessly using a controller (686). Alternatively, the recirculation fans (R3-R6) may share a common controller and / or battery similar to that of recirculation fan (R3b). The recirculation fans (R3-R6) can be attached to the container (710) using adhesive, adhesive tape, hook-and-loop fasteners and / or fasteners, or any other suitable structure.

[0094] II. Examples of Combinations The following embodiments relate to various non-inclusive methods to which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or a subsequent application thereof. This is not intended as a disclaimer. The following embodiments are provided solely for illustrative purposes. It is assumed that the various teachings herein may be constructed and applied in numerous other ways. It is also assumed that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following embodiments. Therefore, none of the embodiments or features mentioned below should be considered important unless they are explicitly indicated as important at a later date by the inventor or his heir. If any claims are presented in this application or a subsequent application relating to this application that include additional features other than those mentioned below, those additional features should not be presumed to have been added for any reason relating to patentability.

[0095] Example 1 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), wherein the container is: (a) a plurality of walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) that define the interior of the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) (b) a first temperature sensor (S1) located in a first location within the interior; (c) a second temperature sensor (S2) located in a second location within the interior, the second location being at a distance from the first location; (d) a temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply air to the interior, wherein the temperature control system comprises the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor A container comprising a temperature control system which communicates with a container and includes a temperature control system which includes a first fan and a second fan (F1, F2, R3, R4), the temperature control system which is configured to: (i) receive a first temperature value from a first temperature sensor (S1) located in a first location inside the container, (ii) receive a second temperature value from a second temperature sensor (S2) located in a second location inside the container, (iii) determine whether at least one of the first or second temperature values ​​is outside a predetermined temperature range, and (iv) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range: (A) use at least the first fan to direct a first volume (V1) of air into the first location inside the container, and (B) use the second fan to direct a second volume (V2) of air into a second location inside the container, thereby changing the airflow around the temperature sensitive cargo, wherein the first volume is greater than the second volume, and the temperature change in the first location is greater than the temperature change in the second location.

[0096] Example 2 The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes heaters (190, 590) configured to supply air as heated air, wherein the temperature control system is configured to respond to determining that a first temperature value is below a predetermined temperature range by: (A) using at least a first fan to direct a first volume (V1) of heated air to a first location inside the container, and (B) using a second fan to direct a second volume (V2) of heated air to a second location inside the container, wherein the first volume of heated air is greater than the second volume of heated air, and the temperature rise at the first location is greater than the temperature rise at the second location, as described in Example 1 (110, 410, 510).

[0097] Example 3 The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes a cooling system (174, 574) configured to supply air as cooling air, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516) is configured to, in response to determining that a first temperature value falls below a predetermined temperature range: (A) using at least a first fan (F1) to direct a first volume (V1) of cooling air to a first location inside the container, and (B) using a second fan (F2) to direct a second volume (V2) of cooling air to a second location inside the container, wherein the first volume of cooling air is greater than the second volume of cooling air, and the temperature drop at the first location is greater than the temperature drop at the second location, as described in Example 1 (110, 410, 510).

[0098] Example 4 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct a first fan (F1) to supply a first volume (V1) using a series of on-off pulses, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 3 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0099] Example 5 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct a second fan (F2, R4) to supply a second volume (V2) using a series of on-off pulses, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 4 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0100] Example 6 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising: (a) a third fan (F3, R5) operating in parallel with a first fan (F1, R3) to guide a first volume (V1); and (b) a fourth fan (F4, R6) operating in parallel with a second fan (F2, R4) to guide a second volume (V2).

[0101] Example 7 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to increase the speed setting of the first fans (F1, R3) in response to determining that a first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 6 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0102] Example 8 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to reduce the speed setting of a second fan (F2, R4) in response to determining that a first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 7 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0103] Example 9 In response to determining that a first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to automatically adjust the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) to that of the second fan (F2, R4), as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 8 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0104] Example 10 The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to: (A) use a first fan (F1, R3) to guide a first volume (V1) to a first location inside the container at a first flow rate, and (B) use a second fan (F2, R4) to guide a second volume (V2) to a second location inside the container at a second flow rate, wherein the first flow rate is greater than the second flow rate, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 9 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0105] Example 11 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to: (A) guide a first volume to a first location inside the container using a first fan (F1, R3) over a first period of time, and (B) guide a second volume to a second location inside the container using a second fan (F2, R4) over a second period of time, wherein the first period is longer than the second period, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 10 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0106] Example 12 The temperature control system further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located in a third location inside, the third location being separate from both the first and second locations, and the temperature control system further includes a third fan (F3, R5), and the temperature control system: (i) receives a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor located in the third location inside, (ii) determines whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, and (iii) in response to determining that the first and third temperature values ​​are outside a predetermined temperature range: (A) uses at least the first fan, A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 11, further configured to guide a first volume (V1) to a first location inside the container, (B) using a second fan to guide a second volume (V2) to a second location inside the container, and (C) using at least a third fan (F3) to guide a third volume (V3a) to a third location inside the container, wherein the first volume is greater than the third volume, the third volume is greater than the second volume, the temperature change at the first location is greater than the change at the third location, and the change at the third location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

[0107] Example 13 Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 11, further comprising a third temperature sensor (S3) located in a third location inside, the third location being separate from both the first and second locations, and further comprising a third fan (F3, R5), the temperature control system further comprising: (i) receiving a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor located in the third location inside, (ii) determining whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, and (iii) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range: (A) using at least the first fan and the third fan (F1, F3, R3, R5) to guide a first volume (V1) to a first location inside, and (B) using the second fan (F2, R4) to guide a second volume (V2) to a second location inside the container.

[0108] Example 14 The temperature control system further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located in a third location inside, the third location being separate from both the first and second locations, and the temperature control system further includes a third fan, and the temperature control system (116): (i) receives a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor (S3) located in the third location inside, (ii) determines whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, (iii) ) In response to determining that a first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range: (A) while a third fan (F3, R5) is stopped, at least the first fan (F1, R3) is used to guide a first volume (V1) to a first location inside the container, and (B) the second fan (F2) is used to guide a second volume (V2) to a second location inside the container, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 11 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0109] Example 15 The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to supply air evenly to the first and second locations before introducing the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 14 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0110] Example 16 The temperature control system (116) is configured to supply a third volume of air to the first location and a fourth volume of air to the second location, before introducing a first volume (V1) to the first location and a second volume (V2) to the second location, wherein the fourth volume (V4) is greater than the third volume (V3), as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 11 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0111] Example 17 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to determine whether at least one of the first or second temperature values ​​is outside a predetermined temperature range in response to the delivery of a first volume (V1) to a first location and a second volume (V2) to a second location, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 16 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0112] Example 18 The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to maintain the internal temperature in a range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 17 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0113] Example 19 The temperature control system (116) further comprises a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 18, which includes an HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118) containing a refrigerant (188).

[0114] Example 20 The temperature control system (116) includes fans (R1, R2) configured to operate independently of the HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118) in the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in Example 19.

[0115] Example 21 A temperature control system (116) further comprises: (i) an evaporator (176) including a plurality of evaporator coils (180); and (ii) a condenser (178) including: (A) a plurality of condenser coils (182); and (B) a condenser fan (184), as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 20, for a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0116] Example 22 The container (110, 410) described in Example 21, wherein the condenser coil (182) and condenser fan (184) are separated from the evaporator coil (180) by an insulating wall (186).

[0117] Example 23 The temperature control system (516) further includes: (i) a container (578) configured to receive a sublimation material (580); and (ii) a sublimation heat exchanger (576) configured to supply cooling air to the interior (514), as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 22.

[0118] Example 24 A container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 23, wherein at least one of the walls (144, 146, 148, 150) includes a vacuum-insulated panel (166).

[0119] Example 25 The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 23 further comprises: (i) a first end wall (144, 644); (ii) a second end wall (146, 646) located opposite the first end wall, the second end wall including at least one door (156, 656) configured for loading and unloading temperature-sensitive cargo; (iii) a first side wall (148, 648) located between the first and second end walls; and (iv) a second side wall (150, 650) located between the first and second end walls, opposite the first side wall.

[0120] Example 26 The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to Example 25, wherein each of the first end walls (144, 644), second end walls (146, 646), first side walls (148, 648), and second side walls (150, 650) includes at least one vacuum insulation panel (166).

[0121] Example 27 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 25 to 26, wherein at least one of the first end wall (744), second end wall (746), first side wall (748), or second side wall (750) includes a removable container (584, 756) for containing phase change material.

[0122] Example 28 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 27, further comprising a recirculation fan (R1) located near the door.

[0123] Example 29 The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 28, wherein the first and second fans (F1, F2, R3, R4) are positioned close to the first end wall (144) and away from at least one door.

[0124] Example 30 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 29, wherein a first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the first end wall (144), and a second temperature sensor is located on a second portion of the first end wall (144).

[0125] Example 31 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located near the first side wall (148) and the second temperature sensor is located near the second side wall (150).

[0126] Example 32 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 25 to 29, wherein a first temperature sensor is located on a first side wall (148) and a second temperature sensor is located on a second side wall (150).

[0127] Example 33 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 29, wherein a first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and a second temperature sensor is located on a second portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b).

[0128] Example 34 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 29, wherein a first temperature sensor is located near a first side wall (148), and a second temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b).

[0129] Example 35 A first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and a second temperature sensor is located near the first side wall, as described in one or more of Examples 25 to 29, for a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0130] Example 36 The container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more of Examples 25 to 35 further includes: (i) an upper wall (152, 452) and (ii) a bottom wall (154, 454) located opposite the upper wall, the bottom wall being spaced apart from the floor (162, 462), and the bottom wall and the floor collectively define a return airflow channel (168, 468) configured to carry return air to a temperature control system (116).

[0131] Example 37 The upper wall (152, 452, 752) of the container (110, 410) according to Example 36 does not include a plenum for transporting air to the first and second locations.

[0132] Example 38 The container (110) according to Examples 36-37 further includes a fan (FF) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel (168) to draw return air into the return airflow channel.

[0133] Example 39 The containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to Examples 36-38 further include a fan (R2) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel to return a localized airflow to the interior.

[0134] Example 40 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 36 to 39, further comprising vents (170, 470) positioned in the floor (162, 462) and communicating with return airflow channels.

[0135] Example 41 A container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more of Examples 36 to 40, further comprising a moisture-absorbing material positioned at least partially within return airflow channels (168, 468).

[0136] Example 42 The container (110) according to Example 41, wherein the moisture-absorbing material is housed in a moisture-absorbing device (202), and the moisture-absorbing device is removable from the container (110) using an access door (208).

[0137] Example 43 The first fan (F1, R3) is an axial fan (230), a torsional fan (228), or a tubular fan (232) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 42 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0138] Example 44 The second fan (F2, R4) is an axial fan (230), a torsional fan (228), or a tubular fan (232) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 43 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0139] Example 45 A tubular fan (232) includes a first axis (A1) and a second axis (A2) perpendicular to the first axis, and the tubular fan (232) extends perpendicularly along the first axis, as described in one or more of Examples 43 to 44 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0140] Example 46 A second fan (F2, R4) is selectively adjustable to direct at least a portion of the first volume to a first location, as described in one or more of the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one of Examples 1 to 45.

[0141] Example 47 The temperature control system is configured to change the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) relative to the second fan (F2, R4) in one or more containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one of Examples 1 to 46.

[0142] Example 48 The temperature control system includes a louver (224) movable between at least a first position and a second position, the louver being configured to affect a first volume and a second volume (V1, V2) of air to the first and second locations, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 47 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0143] Example 49 The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 48, further comprising: (i) a first side wall (148); and (ii) a second side wall (150) located opposite the first side wall (148), wherein the louvers (224) in the first position are configured to direct a larger volume toward the first side wall (148) than toward the second side wall (150).

[0144] Example 50 The temperature control system further includes a controller (136) configured to provide group control of a first fan and a second fan, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 49 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0145] Example 51 The second fan is positioned vertically above the first fan in the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 50.

[0146] Example 52 A second fan (F2, R4) is positioned horizontally adjacent to the first fan (F1, R3) in a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 51.

[0147] Example 53 The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 52, wherein the interior (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) is configured to receive goods on at least one pallet (158).

[0148] Example 54 The container is a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 53, which is sized as a unit load device.

[0149] Example 55 The containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) are sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 54.

[0150] Example 56 The temperature control system includes at least one evaporator coil (180) or condenser coil (182), and at least one of the evaporator coil (180) or condenser coil (182) includes microfins (183) to increase the surface area in order to increase heat exchange, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 55 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0151] Example 57 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 56, wherein a first fan and a second fan (F1, F2) are located within a fan shroud (142, 542), and the fan shroud includes at least one trapezoidal recess (214) for guiding the first and second volumes (V1, V2).

[0152] Example 58 A container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 57, further comprising a fan shroud (142, 542) including a first arc-shaped diverter (216), the first arc-shaped diverter being configured to assist a first fan in directing a first volume of air to a first location inside (114, 414, 514).

[0153] Example 59 The fan shroud (142, 542) includes a second arcuate diverter (216), the second arcuate diverter configured to assist the second fan in directing a second volume of air to a second location inside (114, 414, 514), as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 58 of the container (110, 410, 510).

[0154] Example 60 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 59, further comprising a static pressure well (220) configured to increase the static airflow inside.

[0155] Example 61 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 60, further comprising means for extracting moisture (204) and means for storing the removed moisture in the container (206).

[0156] Example 62 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 61, further comprising a moisture absorption device (202) configured to remove moisture from the air.

[0157] Example 63 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 62, further comprising an access door (208) configured to allow removal of a moisture absorption device (202) from the container (110).

[0158] Example 64 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 63, further comprising at least one lead-acid battery, NiMH battery, or lithium battery (124, 688) configured to supply power to a temperature control system.

[0159] Example 65 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 64, further comprising a controller (136) and sensors (132, 134).

[0160] Example 66 The sensors (132, 134) are global positioning sensors, accelerometers, photodetectors, pressure sensors, or hygrometers in the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in Example 65.

[0161] Example 67 The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 66 further includes a temperature control system (116) and a user interface (138) configured to display at least one of the following: system status, operation, setpoint control, power display, and operation input.

[0162] Example 68 The user interface (138) is configured to be accessed wirelessly by the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) described in Example 67.

[0163] Example 69 A first fan (F1) is configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow to a first location inside the container, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 68 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0164] Example 70 A second fan (F2) is configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow into the interior of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 69.

[0165] Example 71 A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 70.

[0166] Example 72 Air moves from a high-pressure area to a low-pressure area in one or more containers as described in Examples 1 to 70 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0167] Example 73 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), wherein the container comprises: (a) multiple walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, (650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) and the interior has multiple walls configured to receive temperature-sensitive cargo; (b) a first temperature sensor (S1) located in a first location inside the interior; (c) a second temperature sensor (S2) located in a second location inside the interior, the second location being at a distance from the first location; (d) the interior A container comprising a temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply regulated air, wherein the temperature control system communicates with a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor, the temperature control system includes a first fan, and the temperature control system is configured to: (i) receive a first temperature value from a first temperature sensor located in a first location inside the container; (ii) receive a second temperature value from a second temperature sensor located in a second location inside the container; (iii) determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range; and (iv) in response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, instruct the first fan to supply a first volume of regulated air to the first location inside the container using a series of on-off pulses.

[0168] Example 74 The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) further includes a second fan configured to supply a second volume of air to a first location inside the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 73.

[0169] Example 75 The first fan (R3A) is configured to supply air in a first direction (694) in a first configuration and in a second direction (696) in a second configuration, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 74 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0170] Example 76 A first fan (R3) is attached to the container (710) using at least one of adhesive, adhesive tape, hook-and-loop fasteners, or fasteners, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 75, in the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0171] Example 77 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more of Examples 1 to 76, wherein the multiple walls include a first end wall (744), a first side wall (748), and a bottom wall (754), the bottom wall including a groove (764) configured to receive at least one of the first end wall (744) or the first side wall (748).

[0172] Example 78 The first fan (R3, R3a, R3b) is a tubular fan that receives air at a first end (697) and discharges air at a second end (699), the first end being on the opposite side of the second end, as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 77 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0173] Example 79 A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of Examples 1 to 78, wherein a first fan (R3, R3a, R3b) directs a first volume (V1) in a first direction, and a second fan (R3, R3a, R3b) directs a second volume (V2) in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0174] Example 80 A method for maintaining a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) within a predetermined temperature range, comprising: (a) using a first temperature sensor (S1) to sense a first temperature value at a first location inside the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714); (b) using a second temperature sensor (S2) to sense a second temperature value at a second location inside the container; (c) determining whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range; and (d) determining the first temperature A method comprising: (i) using at least a first fan (F1, R3) to direct a first volume of air to a first location inside the container; and (ii) using a second fan (F2, R4) to direct a second volume of air to a second location inside the container, thereby altering the airflow around the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), wherein the first volume of air is greater than the second volume of air, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

[0175] Example 81 A cargo container comprising: (a) a plurality of walls defining the interior; and (b) an active electric temperature control system configured to maintain the interior temperature in a range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C.

[0176] Example 82 The container according to Example 81, wherein the cavity is configured to receive goods for at least one pallet-sized load.

[0177] Example 83 A cargo container, as described in one or more of Examples 81-82, is sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft.

[0178] Example 84 A container according to one or more of Examples 81 to 83, wherein the cavity is in the form of a unit load device.

[0179] Example 85 The temperature control system further comprises an HVAC compressor-evaporator system containing a refrigerant, as described in one or more of Examples 81 to 84.

[0180] Example 86 The container according to one or more of Examples 81 to 88 includes an active electric temperature control system, which includes a fan configured to operate independently of the HVAC compressor-evaporator system.

[0181] Example 87 The container according to one or more of Examples 81 to 85, wherein the active electric temperature control system includes at least one of an evaporator coil or a condenser coil, and at least one of the evaporator or condenser includes microfins to increase the surface area in order to increase heat exchange.

[0182] Example 88 A container according to one or more of Examples 81 to 86, further comprising at least one of an arc-shaped fan shroud, a high-efficiency fan, and an optimized static pressure well, configured to increase static airflow inside.

[0183] Example 89 The container according to any one or more of the embodiments 81 to 87, wherein the active electric temperature control system includes a first fan configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow to a first location inside the container.

[0184] Example 90 The container according to any one or more of Embodiments 89, wherein the active electric temperature control system includes a second fan configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow into the interior of the container.

[0185] Example 91 The container according to any one or more of the embodiments of 90 further includes a controller configured to provide group control or individual control of the first fan and the second fan.

[0186] Example 92 The active electric temperature control system is configured to (i) guide a first volume of air to a first location inside the container using a first fan, and (ii) guide a second volume of air to a second location inside the container using a second fan, wherein the first volume of air is greater than the second volume of air, as described in one or more of Examples 81 to 91.

[0187] Example 93 The container according to any one or more of Examples 81 to 92, wherein an active electric temperature control system is configured to change the flow rate of the first fan relative to the second fan.

[0188] Example 94 An active electric temperature control system is configured to: (i) direct air to a first location inside the container for a first period of time, and (ii) direct a second volume of air to a second location inside the container for a second period of time, wherein the first period is longer than the second period, as described in one or more of Examples 81 to 93.

[0189] Example 95 A container according to any one or more of Examples 81 to 94, further comprising a floor vent with a duct.

[0190] Example 96 A container according to any one or more of Examples 81 to 95, further comprising means for moisture extraction and internal storage.

[0191] Example 97 A container according to one or more of Examples 81 to 96, further comprising at least one lead-acid battery, NiMH battery, or lithium battery.

[0192] Example 98 A container according to any one of Examples 81 to 97, further comprising a return airflow duct and a moisture-absorbing material positioned at least partially within the return airflow duct.

[0193] Example 99 A container according to any one or more of Examples 81 to 98, further comprising a means for removing moisture, including collection and internal storage within a water tank.

[0194] Example 100 The container is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the temperature control system, as described in one or more of the examples 81 to 99.

[0195] Example 101 A cargo container comprising: (a) a plurality of walls defining the interior; and (b) a semi-passive temperature control system configured to maintain a temperature range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C using dry ice sublimation.

[0196] Example 102 The container according to Example 101, wherein the cavity is configured to receive cargo of at least one pallet size.

[0197] Example 103 A cargo container, as described in one or more of Examples 101 to 102, is sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft.

[0198] Example 104 A container according to one or more of Examples 101 to 103, wherein the cavity is in the form of a unit load device.

[0199] Example 105 A container according to one or more of Examples 101 to 104, further comprising at least one of an arc-shaped fan shroud, a high-efficiency fan, and an optimized static pressure well, configured to increase static airflow inside.

[0200] Example 106 The container according to any one or more of Examples 101 to 105, wherein the temperature control system includes a first fan configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow to a first location inside the container.

[0201] Example 107 The temperature control system includes a second fan configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow into the interior of the container, as described in one or more of Examples 106.

[0202] Example 108 The container according to any one or more of the embodiments of 107, further comprising a controller configured to provide group control or individual control of the first and second fans.

[0203] Example 109 The temperature control system is configured to (i) guide a first volume of air to a first location inside the container using a first fan, and (ii) guide a second volume of air to a second location inside the container using a second fan, wherein the first volume of air is greater than the second volume of air, as described in one or more of Examples 101 to 108.

[0204] Example 110 The container according to one or more of the embodiments 101 to 109, wherein an active electric temperature control system is configured to change the flow rate of the first fan relative to the second fan.

[0205] Example 111 The temperature control system is configured to: (i) direct air to a first location inside the container for a first period of time, and (ii) direct a second volume of air to a second location inside the container for a second period of time, wherein the first period is longer than the second period, as described in one or more of Examples 101 to 110.

[0206] Example 112 A container according to any one or more of Examples 101 to 111, further comprising a floor vent with a duct.

[0207] Example 113 A container according to any one or more of Examples 101 to 112, further comprising means for moisture extraction and internal storage.

[0208] Example 114 A container according to one or more of Examples 101 to 113, further comprising at least one lead-acid battery, NiMH battery, or lithium battery.

[0209] Example 115 A container according to any one or more of Examples 101 to 114, further comprising a return airflow duct and a moisture-absorbing material positioned at least partially within the return airflow duct.

[0210] Example 116 A container according to any one or more of Examples 101 to 115, further comprising means for removing moisture, including collection and internal storage within a water tank.

[0211] Example 117 The container is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the temperature control system, as described in one or more of Examples 101 to 116.

[0212] Example 118 A cargo container comprising: (a) a plurality of walls defining the interior; and (b) a temperature control system configured to maintain a temperature range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C, wherein the temperature control system comprises: (i) a controller; (ii) at least one sensor configured to sense temperature; and (iii) at least one fan configured to direct air to a selected portion of the interior in response to the temperature sensed by the sensor.

[0213] Example 119 A method for uniformly cooling a container, comprising: (a) using a first sensor to sense a first temperature at a first location inside the container; (b) using a second sensor to sense a second temperature at a second location inside the container; (c) determining that the first temperature is higher than the second temperature; and (d) cooling the first location more than the second location.

[0214] Example 120 The cargo container is sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft, according to the method of Embodiment 119.

[0215] Example 121 The cooling action further comprises: (a) introducing a first volume of air to a first location; and (b) introducing a second volume of air to a second location, wherein the first volume of air is greater than the second volume of air, according to one or more of the methods of Examples 119 to 120.

[0216] Example 122 The method according to Example 121, further comprising introducing a third volume of air into a third location inside, wherein the first volume of air is greater than the second volume of air, and the second volume of air is greater than the third volume of air.

[0217] Example 123 The cooling method according to one or more of Examples 119 to 122, further comprising: (a) supplying air at a first flow rate through a first fan; and (b) supplying air at a second flow rate through a second fan.

[0218] Example 124 The cooling process is performed using an HVAC unit, according to one or more of the methods described in Examples 119 to 123.

[0219] Example 125 The cooling process is carried out using sublimation, as described in one or more of the methods in Examples 119 to 124.

[0220] Example 126 The act of cooling is the method described in any one or more of Examples 119 to 125, which is performed using a fan.

[0221] Example 127 A method for uniformly heating a container, comprising: (a) sensing a first temperature at a first location inside the container using a first sensor; (b) sensing a second temperature at a second location inside the container using a second sensor; (c) determining that the first temperature is lower than the second temperature; and (d) heating the first location more than the second location.

[0222] Example 128 The act of heating further comprises: (a) guiding a first volume of air to a first location; and (b) guiding a second volume of air to a second location, wherein the first volume of air is larger than the second volume of air. The method according to Example 127.

[0223] III. Others It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. described in this specification can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. described in this specification. Therefore, the above teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. should not be construed separately from each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings of this specification. Such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0224] Any patents, publications, or other disclosures incorporated herein by reference, in whole or in part, are incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, descriptions, or other disclosures contained herein. Therefore, to the extent necessary, disclosures expressly contained herein take precedence over any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or any part incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with existing definitions, descriptions, or other disclosures contained herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that it does not create a conflict between the incorporated material and the existing disclosures.

[0225] While various versions of the present invention have been shown and described, further modifications of the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by appropriate modifications by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Some of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be obvious to those skilled in the art. For example, the above examples, versions, geometric shapes, materials, dimensions, proportions, steps, etc., are illustrative and not essential. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood to be not limited to the details of the structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

[0226] [Implementation Method] (1) Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), (a) A plurality of walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) defining the interior of the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714), wherein the interior is configured to receive the temperature-sensitive cargo, (b) A first temperature sensor (S1) located at a first location inside the interior, (c) A second temperature sensor (S2) located at a second location within the interior, wherein the second location is at a distance from the first location, (d) A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply air to the interior thereof, wherein the temperature control system communicates with the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, and the temperature control system includes a first fan (F1, R3) and a second fan (F2, R4), and the temperature control system is (i) receive a first temperature value from the first temperature sensor (S1) located at the first location inside the interior, (ii) Receiving a second temperature value from the second temperature sensor (S2) located at the second location inside the interior, (iii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, (iv) In response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the air of a first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) A temperature control system configured to use the second fan to direct a second volume (V2) of the air to the second location inside the container, thereby altering the airflow around the temperature-sensitive cargo, wherein the first volume is greater than the second volume, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location. A container that includes this. (2) The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes heaters (190, 590) configured to supply the air as heated air, The temperature control system, in response to determining that the first temperature value is below the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the heated air in a first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) A container (110, 410, 510) according to Embodiment 1, configured to use the second fan to direct a second volume (V2) of the heated air to a second location inside the container, wherein the first volume of the heated air is greater than the second volume of the heated air, and the temperature rise at the first location is greater than the temperature rise at the second location. (3) The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes a cooling system (174, 574) configured to supply the air as cooling air, The temperature control system (116, 516) responds to determining that the first temperature value falls below the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan (F1), guide the cooling air of a first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior. (B) A container (110, 410, 510) according to Embodiment 1, configured to use a second fan (F2) to guide a second volume (V2) of the cooling air to a second location inside the container, wherein the first volume of the cooling air is greater than the second volume of the cooling air, and the temperature drop at the first location is greater than the temperature drop at the second location. (4) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct the first fan (F1) to supply the first volume (V1) using a series of on-off pulses. (5) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct the second fan (F2, R4) to supply the second volume (V2) using a series of on-off pulses.

[0227] (6) (a) A third fan (F3, R5) operating in parallel with the first fan (F1, R3) to derive the first volume (V1), (b) A fourth fan (F4, R6) operating in parallel with the second fan (F2, R4) to guide the second volume (V2), A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of embodiments 1 to 5, further including the above. (7) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to increase the speed setting of the first fans (F1, R3) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range. (8) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to reduce the speed setting of the second fan (F2, R4) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range. (9) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to automatically adjust the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) to the second fan (F2, R4) in response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range. (10) The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) (A) Using the first fan (F1, R3), guide the first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior at a first flow rate. (B) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 9, configured to use the second fan (F2, R4) to guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container at a second flow rate, wherein the first flow rate is greater than the second flow rate, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

[0228] (11) The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) (A) For a first period of time, the first fan (F1, R3) is used to guide the first volume to the first location inside the interior. (B) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is configured to guide the second volume to the second location inside the container over a second period of time, the first period being longer than the second period, and the temperature change at the first location being greater than the temperature change at the second location. (12) Further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located in a third location within the interior, The third location is far from both the first and second locations. The temperature control system further includes a third fan (F3, R5), and the temperature control system is (i) receive a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor located in the third location inside the interior, (ii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to the determination that the first temperature value and the third temperature value are outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) Using the second fan, guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container, (C) Further configured to direct a third volume (V3a) to the third location within the interior using at least the third fan (F3), wherein the first volume is larger than the third volume, the third volume is larger than the second volume, the temperature change at the first location is greater than the change at the third location, and the change at the third location is greater than the temperature change at the second location, the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 11. (13) Further comprising a third temperature sensor (S3) positioned at a third location within the interior, The third location is remote from both the first location and the second location, The temperature control system further comprises a third fan (F3, R5), and the temperature control system, (i) Receiving a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor at the third location within the interior, (ii) Determining whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Directing the first volume (V1) to the first location within the interior using at least the first fan (F1, R3) and the third fan (F3, R5), (B) Further configured to direct the second volume (V2) to the second location within the interior of the container using the second fan (F2, R4), the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 11. (14) Further comprising a third temperature sensor (S3) positioned at a third location within the interior, The third location is remote from both the first location and the second location, The temperature control system further comprises a third fan, and the temperature control system (116), (i) receive a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor (S3) located at the third location inside the interior, (ii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) While the third fan (F3, R5) is stopped, at least the first fan (F1, R3) is used to guide the first volume (V1) to the first location inside, (B) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 11, further configured to guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container using the second fan (F2). (15) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to supply the air evenly to the first location and the second location before introducing the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location.

[0229] (16) The temperature control system (116) is configured to supply a third volume of the air to the first location and a fourth volume (V4) of the air to the second location, before delivering the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location, wherein the fourth volume (V4) is greater than the third volume (V3), as described in one or more embodiments 1 to 11 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710). (17) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range in response to the first volume (V1) being directed to the first location and the second volume (V2) being directed to the second location. (18) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to maintain the interior temperature in a range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C. (19) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the temperature control system (116) further comprises an HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118) containing a refrigerant (188). (20) A temperature control system (116) is provided in the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to Embodiment 19, which includes fans (R1, R2) configured to operate independently of the HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118).

[0230] (21) The temperature control system (116) is (i) an evaporator (176) including multiple evaporator coils (180), (ii) A condenser (178), (A) Multiple condenser coils (182), and (B) Condenser fan (184), A condenser, including A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) as described in one or more of embodiments 1 to 20, further including the above. (22) The container (110, 410) according to Embodiment 21, wherein the condenser coil (182) and the condenser fan (184) are separated from the evaporator coil (180) by an insulating wall (186). (23) The temperature control system (516) is (i) A container (578) configured to receive a sublimation material (580), (ii) A sublimation heat exchanger (576) configured to supply cooling air to the interior (514), A container (510) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 22, further including the above. (24) A container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 23, wherein at least one of the walls (144, 146, 148, 150) includes a vacuum insulation panel (166). (25) The plurality of walls, (i) The first end wall (144, 644) and (ii) A second end wall (146, 646) located on the opposite side of the first end wall, the second end wall includes at least one door (156, 656) configured for loading and unloading the temperature-sensitive cargo, (iii) A first side wall (148, 648) positioned between the first end wall and the second end wall, (iv) A second side wall (150, 650) located between the first end wall and the second end wall, on the opposite side of the first side wall, A container (110, 410, 510, 610) as described in one or more of embodiments 1 to 23, further including the above.

[0231] (26) The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to Embodiment 25, wherein each of the first end walls (144, 644), the second end walls (146, 646), the first side walls (148, 648), and the second side walls (150, 650) includes at least one vacuum insulation panel (166). (27) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 25 to 26, wherein at least one of the first end wall (744), the second end wall (746), the first side wall (748), or the second side wall (750) includes a removable container (584, 756) for housing a phase change material. (28) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 27, further comprising a recirculation fan (R1) located near the door. (29) A container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 28, wherein the first fan (F1, R3) and the second fan (F2, R4) are positioned close to the first end wall (144) and away from the at least one door. (30) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the first end wall (144), and the second temperature sensor is located on a second portion of the first end wall (144).

[0232] (31) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located near the first side wall (148) and the second temperature sensor is located near the second side wall (150). (32) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on the first side wall (148) and the second temperature sensor is located on the second side wall (150). (33) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and the second temperature sensor is located on a second portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b). (34) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located near the first side wall (148), and the second temperature sensor is located on the first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b). (35) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and the second temperature sensor is located near the first side wall.

[0233] (36) The plurality of walls, (i) Upper wall (152, 452) and (ii) A bottom wall (154, 454) located on the opposite side of the upper wall, It further includes, The container (110, 410, 510) according to one or more embodiments 25 to 35, wherein the bottom wall is spaced apart from the floor (162, 462), and the bottom wall and the floor collectively define a return airflow channel (168, 468) configured to carry return air to the temperature control system (116). (37) The container (110, 410) according to Embodiment 36, wherein the upper wall (152, 452, 752) does not include a plenum for transporting the air to the first and second locations. (38) A container (110) according to embodiments 36 to 37, further comprising a fan (FF) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel (168) to draw return air into the return airflow channel. (39) The containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to embodiments 36 to 38, further comprising a fan (R2) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel to return a local airflow to the interior. (40) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 36 to 39, further comprising vents (170, 470) located in the floor (162, 462) and communicating with the return airflow channel.

[0234] (41) A container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more embodiments 36 to 40, further comprising a moisture-absorbing material positioned at least partially within the return airflow channels (168, 468). (42) The container (110) according to embodiment 41, wherein the moisture-absorbing material is housed in a moisture-absorbing device (202), and the moisture-absorbing device is removable from the container (110) using an access door (208). (43) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 42, wherein the first fan (F1, R3) is an axial fan (230), a torsion fan (228), or a tubular fan (232). (44) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 43, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is an axial fan (230), a torsion fan (228), or a tubular fan (232). (45) The tubular fan (232) includes a first axis (A1) and a second axis (A2) perpendicular to the first axis, and the tubular fan (232) extends perpendicularly along the first axis, as a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 43 to 44.

[0235] (46) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 45, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is selectively adjustable to direct at least a portion of the first volume to the first location. (47) The temperature control system is configured to change the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) relative to the second fan (F2, R4) in the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 46. (48) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 47, wherein the temperature control system includes louvers (224) movable between at least a first position and a second position, the louvers being configured to influence the first volume (V1) and the second volume (V2) of the air to the first and second locations. (49) The plurality of walls, (i) First side wall (148) and, (ii) A second side wall (150) located on the opposite side of the first side wall, It further includes, The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 48, wherein the louvers (224) in the first position are configured to direct a larger volume to the first side wall (148) than to the second side wall (150). (50) The temperature control system further includes a controller (136) configured to provide group control of the first fan and the second fan, as described in one or more embodiments 1 to 49 of the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[0236] (51) The second fan is positioned vertically above the first fan in the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 50. (52) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 51, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is positioned horizontally adjacent to the first fan (F1, R3). (53) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 52, wherein the interior (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) is configured to receive goods on at least one pallet (158). (54) The container is a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 53, which is sized as a unit load device. (55) The containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) described in one or more embodiments 1 to 54, which are sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft.

[0237] (56) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 55, wherein the temperature control system includes at least one of an evaporator coil (180) or a condenser coil (182), and at least one of the evaporator coil (180) or the condenser coil (182) includes microfins (183) that increase the surface area to increase heat exchange. (57) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 56, wherein the first fan (F1) and the second fan (F2) are located within a fan shroud (142, 542), the fan shroud including at least one trapezoidal recess (214) for guiding the first volume (V1) and the second volume (V2). (58) A container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 57, further comprising a fan shroud (142, 542) including a first arcuate diverter (216), the first arcuate diverter being configured to assist the first fan in directing the first volume of the air to the first location within the interior (114, 414, 514). (59) The container (110, 410, 510) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 58, wherein the fan shroud (142, 542) includes a second arc diverter (216), the second arc diverter configured to assist the second fan in directing the second volume of the air to the second location within the interior (114, 414, 514). (60) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 59, further comprising a static pressure well (220) configured to increase the static airflow inside the container.

[0238] (61) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 60, further comprising means for extracting moisture (204) and means for storing the removed moisture in the container (206). (62) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 61, further comprising a moisture absorption device (202) configured to remove moisture from the air. (63) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 62, further comprising an access door (208) configured to allow the removal of the moisture absorption device (202) from the container (110). (64) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 63, further comprising at least one lead-acid battery, NiMH battery, or lithium battery (124, 688) configured to supply power to the temperature control system. (65) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 64, further comprising a controller (136) and sensors (132, 134).

[0239] (66) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to Embodiment 65, wherein the sensors (132, 134) are global positioning sensors, accelerometers, photodetectors, pressure sensors, or hygrometers. (67) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 66, further comprising a user interface (138) configured to display at least one of system status, operation, setpoint control, power display, and operation input, wherein the temperature control system (116) further includes a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710). (68) The user interface (138) is configured to be accessed wirelessly in the containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to Embodiment 67. (69) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 68, wherein the first fan (F1) is configured to supply a dynamic curved airflow to the first location within the interior of the container. (70) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 69, wherein the second fan (F2) is configured to supply a dynamic curved airflow into the interior of the container.

[0240] (71) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 70, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the container. (72) The air moves from a high-pressure area to a low-pressure area in a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 70. (73) Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), (a) A plurality of walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) that define an interior (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) that defines the interior of the container, wherein the interior is configured to receive the temperature-sensitive cargo, (b) A first temperature sensor (S1) located at a first location inside the interior, (c) A second temperature sensor (S2) located at a second location within the interior, wherein the second location is at a distance from the first location, (d) A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply regulated air to the interior thereof, wherein the temperature control system communicates with the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, the temperature control system includes a first fan, and the temperature control system is (i) receive a first temperature value from the first temperature sensor located at the first location inside the interior, (ii) Receiving a second temperature value from the second temperature sensor located at the second location inside the interior, (iii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, (iv) A temperature control system configured to instruct the first fan to supply a first volume of regulated air to the first location inside the interior using a series of on / off pulses in response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, A container that includes this. (74) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more embodiments 1 to 73, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) further includes a second fan configured to supply a second volume of air to the first location inside the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710). (75) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 74, wherein the first fan (R3A) is configured to supply air in a first direction (694) in a first configuration and in a second direction (696) in a second configuration, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0241] (76) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 75, wherein the first fan (R3) is attached to the container (710) using at least one of adhesive, adhesive tape, hook-and-loop fastener, or fastener. (77) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 76, wherein the plurality of walls include a first end wall (744), a first side wall (748), and a bottom wall (754), the bottom wall including a groove (764) configured to receive at least one of the first end wall (744) or the first side wall (748). (78) The first fan (R3, R3a, R3b) is a tubular fan that receives the air at a first end (697) and discharges the air at a second end (699), the first end being on the opposite side of the second end, the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 77. (79) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to one or more embodiments 1 to 78, wherein the first fans (R3, R3a, R3b) guide the first volume (V1) in a first direction, and the second fans (R3, R3a, R3b) guide the second volume (V2) in a second direction opposite to the first direction. (80) A method for maintaining a container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) within a predetermined temperature range, (a) Using the first temperature sensor (S1), sense a first temperature value at a first location inside the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714), (b) Using the second temperature sensor (S2), a second temperature value is detected at the second location inside the container, (c) Determining whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (d) In response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (i) Using at least first fans (F1, R3), guide a first volume of air to the first location inside the interior, (ii) Using a second fan (F2, R4), direct a second volume of the air to the second location inside the container, thereby altering the airflow around the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), Includes, A method wherein the first volume of the air is greater than the second volume of the air, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

Claims

1. Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), (a) A plurality of walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) defining the interior of the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714), wherein the interior is configured to receive the temperature-sensitive cargo, (b) A first temperature sensor (S1) located at a first location inside the interior, (c) A second temperature sensor (S2) located at a second location within the interior, wherein the second location is at a distance from the first location, (d) A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply air to the interior, wherein the temperature control system communicates with the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, and the temperature control system includes a first fan (F1, R3) and a second fan (F2, R4), and the temperature control system (i) A first temperature value is received from the first temperature sensor (S1) located at the first location inside the interior, (ii) A second temperature value is received from the second temperature sensor (S2) located at the second location inside the interior. (iii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, (iv) In response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the air of a first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) A temperature control system configured to use the second fan to guide a second volume (V2) of air to the second location inside the container, thereby changing the airflow around the temperature-sensitive cargo, wherein the first volume is greater than the second volume, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location. A container that includes this.

2. The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes heaters (190, 590) configured to supply the air as heated air, The temperature control system, in response to determining that the first temperature value is less than the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the heated air in a first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan is configured to guide a second volume (V2) of heated air to a second location inside the container, the first volume of heated air being greater than the second volume of heated air, and the temperature rise at the first location being greater than the temperature rise at the second location.

3. The temperature control system (116, 516) further includes a cooling system (174, 574) configured to supply the air as cooling air, The temperature control system (116, 516) responds to determining that the first temperature value is below the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan (F1), guide the first volume (V1) of cooling air to the first location inside the interior, (B) The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 1, wherein a second fan (F2) is configured to guide a second volume (V2) of the cooling air to a second location inside the container, the first volume of the cooling air being greater than the second volume of the cooling air, and the temperature drop at the first location being greater than the temperature drop at the second location.

4. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to any one or more of claims 1 to 3, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct the first fan (F1) to supply the first volume (V1) using a series of on-off pulses.

5. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to instruct the second fan (F2, R4) to supply the second volume (V2) using a series of on-off pulses.

6. (a) A third fan (F3, R5) that operates in parallel with the first fan (F1, R3) to guide the first volume (V1), (b) A fourth fan (F4, R6) operating in parallel with the second fan (F2, R4) to guide the second volume (V2), The container according to claim 1 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710), further comprising the above.

7. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to increase the speed setting of the first fans (F1, R3) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range.

8. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to reduce the speed setting of the second fans (F2, R4) in response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range.

9. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to automatically adjust the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) to the second fan (F2, R4) in response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range.

10. The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is (A) Using the first fan (F1, R3), the first volume (V1) is guided to the first location inside the interior at a first flow rate. (B) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, configured to use the second fan (F2, R4) to guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container at a second flow rate, wherein the first flow rate is greater than the second flow rate, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

11. The temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is (A) For a first period of time, the first fan (F1, R3) is used to guide the first volume to the first location inside the interior. (B) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is configured to guide the second volume to the second location inside the container over a second period of time, the first period being longer than the second period, and the temperature change at the first location being greater than the temperature change at the second location.

12. The present invention further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located at a third location within the interior, The third location is far from both the first and second locations. The temperature control system further includes a third fan (F3, R5), and the temperature control system is (i) receive a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor located in the third location inside the interior, (ii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to the determination that the first temperature value and the third temperature value are outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan, guide the first volume (V1) to the first location inside the interior, (B) Using the second fan, guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container, (C) A container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further configured to guide a third volume (V3a) to a third location inside the interior using at least the third fan (F3), wherein the first volume is greater than the third volume, the third volume is greater than the second volume, the temperature change at the first location is greater than the change at the third location, and the change at the third location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

13. The present invention further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located at a third location within the interior, The third location is far from both the first and second locations. The temperature control system further includes a third fan (F3, R5), and the temperature control system is (i) receive a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor located in the third location inside the interior, (ii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) Using at least the first fan (F1, R3) and the third fan (F3, R5), the first volume (V1) is guided to the first location inside the interior. (B) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further configured to guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container using the second fan (F2, R4).

14. The present invention further includes a third temperature sensor (S3) located at a third location within the interior, The third location is far from both the first and second locations. The temperature control system further includes a third fan, and the temperature control system (116) is (i) Receiving a third temperature value from the third temperature sensor (S3) located at the third location inside the interior, (ii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value, the second temperature value, or the third temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (iii) In response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (A) While the third fan (F3, R5) is stopped, at least the first fan (F1, R3) is used to guide the first volume (V1) to the first location inside, (B) The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further configured to guide the second volume (V2) to the second location inside the container using the second fan (F2).

15. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to supply the air evenly to the first location and the second location before introducing the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location.

16. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116) is configured to supply a third volume of the air to the first location and a fourth volume (V4) of the air to the second location, before delivering the first volume (V1) to the first location and the second volume (V2) to the second location, wherein the fourth volume (V4) is greater than the third volume (V3).

17. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range in response to the first volume (V1) being directed to the first location and the second volume (V2) being directed to the second location.

18. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to maintain the interior temperature in a range of approximately -20°C to approximately 25°C.

19. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising an HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118) containing a refrigerant (188) as the temperature control system (116).

20. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 19, wherein the temperature control system (116) includes fans (R1, R2) configured to operate independently of the HVAC condenser-evaporator system (118).

21. The temperature control system (116) is (i) an evaporator (176) including multiple evaporator coils (180), (ii) Condenser (178), (A) Multiple condenser coils (182), and (B) Condenser fan (184), A condenser, including The container according to claim 1 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710), further comprising the above.

22. The container (110, 410) according to claim 21, wherein the condenser coil (182) and the condenser fan (184) are separated from the evaporator coil (180) by an insulating wall (186).

23. The temperature control system (516) is (i) A container (578) configured to receive a sublimation material (580), (ii) A sublimation heat exchanger (576) configured to supply cooling air to the interior (514), The container (510) according to claim 1, further comprising:

24. The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the walls (144, 146, 148, 150) includes a vacuum insulation panel (166).

25. The aforementioned multiple walls are (i) The first end wall (144, 644) and (ii) A second end wall (146, 646) located opposite the first end wall, the second end wall includes at least one door (156, 656) configured for loading and unloading the temperature-sensitive cargo, (iii) A first side wall (148, 648) positioned between the first end wall and the second end wall, (iv) A second side wall (150, 650) located between the first end wall and the second end wall, on the opposite side of the first side wall, The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to claim 1, further comprising:

26. The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to claim 25, wherein each of the first end walls (144, 644), the second end walls (146, 646), the first side walls (148, 648), and the second side walls (150, 650) includes at least one vacuum insulation panel (166).

27. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein at least one of the first end wall (744), the second end wall (746), the first side wall (748), or the second side wall (750) includes a removable container (584, 756) for housing a phase change material.

28. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, further comprising a recirculation fan (R1) located near the door.

29. The container (110, 410, 510, 610) according to claim 25, wherein the first fan (F1, R3) and the second fan (F2, R4) are positioned close to the first end wall (144) and away from the at least one door.

30. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is positioned on a first portion of the first end wall (144), and the second temperature sensor is positioned on a second portion of the first end wall (144).

31. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is located near the first side wall (148), and the second temperature sensor is located near the second side wall (150).

32. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on the first side wall (148) and the second temperature sensor is located on the second side wall (150).

33. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is positioned on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and the second temperature sensor is positioned on a second portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b).

34. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is located near the first side wall (148), and the second temperature sensor is located on the first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b).

35. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 25, wherein the first temperature sensor is located on a first portion of the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b), and the second temperature sensor is located near the first side wall.

36. The aforementioned multiple walls are (i) Upper wall (152, 452) (ii) A bottom wall (154, 454) located on the opposite side of the upper wall, It further includes, The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 25, wherein the bottom wall is spaced apart from the floor (162, 462), and the bottom wall and the floor collectively define a return airflow channel (168, 468) configured to carry return air to the temperature control system (116).

37. The container (110, 410) according to claim 36, wherein the upper wall (152, 452, 752) does not include a plenum for transporting the air to the first and second locations.

38. The container (110) according to claim 36, further comprising a fan (FF) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel (168) to draw return air into the return airflow channel.

39. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 36, further comprising a fan (R2) at least partially positioned within the return airflow channel to return a local airflow to the interior.

40. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 36, further comprising vents (170, 470) positioned in the floor (162, 462) and communicating with the return airflow channel.

41. The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 36, further comprising a moisture-absorbing material at least partially positioned within the return airflow channels (168, 468).

42. The container (110) according to claim 41, wherein the moisture-absorbing material is housed in a moisture-absorbing device (202), and the moisture-absorbing device is removable from the container (110) using an access door (208).

43. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the first fan (F1, R3) is an axial fan (230), a torsion fan (228), or a tubular fan (232).

44. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is an axial fan (230), a torsional fan (228), or a tubular fan (232).

45. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 43, wherein the tubular fan (232) includes a first axis (A1) and a second axis (A2) perpendicular to the first axis, and the tubular fan (232) extends perpendicularly along the first axis.

46. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fans (F2, R4) are selectively adjustable to direct at least a portion of the first volume to the first location.

47. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system is configured to change the flow rate of the first fan (F1, R3) relative to the second fan (F2, R4).

48. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system includes louvers (224) movable between at least a first position and a second position, the louvers being configured to influence the first volume (V1) and the second volume (V2) of the air to the first and second locations.

49. The aforementioned multiple walls are (i) First side wall (148) and (ii) A second side wall (150) located on the opposite side of the first side wall, It further includes, The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the louvers (224) in the first position are configured to direct a larger volume to the first side wall (148) than to the second side wall (150).

50. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising a controller (136) configured to provide group control of the first fan and the second fan.

51. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan is positioned vertically above the first fan.

52. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan (F2, R4) is positioned horizontally adjacent to the first fan (F1, R3).

53. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the interior (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) is configured to receive goods on at least one pallet (158).

54. The container is sized as a unit load device, as described in claim 1 (110, 410, 510, 610, 710).

55. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) is sized and configured to be placed inside an aircraft.

56. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system includes at least one of an evaporator coil (180) or a condenser coil (182), and at least one of the evaporator coil (180) or the condenser coil (182) includes microfins (183) that increase the surface area to increase heat exchange.

57. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the first fan (F1) and the second fan (F2) are located within a fan shroud (142, 542), the fan shroud includes at least one trapezoidal recess (214) for guiding the first volume (V1) and the second volume (V2).

58. The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 1, further comprising a fan shroud (142, 542) including a first arcuate diverter (216), the first arcuate diverter being configured to assist the first fan in directing the first volume of the air to the first location within the interior (114, 414, 514).

59. The container (110, 410, 510) according to claim 1, wherein the fan shroud (142, 542) includes a second arcuate diverter (216) configured to assist the second fan in directing the second volume of air to the second location within the interior (114, 414, 514).

60. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising a static pressure well (220) configured to increase the static airflow inside the container.

61. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising means for extracting moisture (204) and means for storing the removed moisture in the container (206).

62. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 further comprises a moisture absorption device (202) configured to remove moisture from the air.

63. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising an access door (208) configured to allow the removal of the moisture absorption device (202) from the container (110).

64. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one lead-acid battery, NiMH battery, or lithium battery (124, 688) configured to supply power to the temperature control system.

65. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising a controller (136) and sensors (132, 134).

66. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 65, wherein the sensors (132, 134) are a global positioning sensor, an accelerometer, a photodetector, a pressure sensor, or a hygrometer.

67. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, further comprising a user interface (138) configured to display at least one of system status, operation, setpoint control, power display, and operation input.

68. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 67, wherein the user interface (138) is configured to be accessed wirelessly.

69. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the first fan (F1) is configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow to the first location inside the container.

70. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the second fan (F2) is configured to supply a dynamic, curved airflow into the interior of the container.

71. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) is configured to improve the performance and efficiency of the container.

72. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1, wherein the air moves from a high-pressure area to a low-pressure area.

73. Containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) configured to accommodate temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), (a) A plurality of walls (144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 444, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652, 654, 744, 746, 748, 750, 752, 754) that define an interior (114, 414, 514, 614, 714) that defines the interior of the container, wherein the interior is configured to receive the temperature-sensitive cargo, (b) A first temperature sensor (S1) located at a first location inside the interior, (c) A second temperature sensor (S2) located at a second location within the interior, wherein the second location is at a distance from the first location, (d) A temperature control system (116, 516, 616, 716) configured to supply regulated air to the interior, wherein the temperature control system communicates with the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, and the temperature control system includes a first fan, (i) Receiving a first temperature value from the first temperature sensor located at the first location inside the interior, (ii) Receiving a second temperature value from the second temperature sensor located at the second location inside the interior, (iii) Determine whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside a predetermined temperature range, (iv) A temperature control system configured to instruct the first fan to supply a first volume of regulated air to the first location inside the interior using a series of on / off pulses in response to the determination that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, A container that includes this.

74. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, further comprising a second fan configured to supply a second volume of air to the first location inside the interior.

75. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, wherein the first fan (R3A) is configured to supply air in a first direction (694) in a first configuration and in a second direction (696) in a second configuration, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

76. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, wherein the first fan (R3) is attached to the container (710) using at least one of adhesive, adhesive tape, hook-and-loop fastener, or fastener.

77. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, wherein the plurality of walls include a first end wall (744), a first side wall (748), and a bottom wall (754), the bottom wall including a groove (764) configured to receive at least one of the first end wall (744) or the first side wall (748).

78. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, wherein the first fan (R3, R3a, R3b) is a tubular fan that receives the air at a first end (697) and discharges the air at a second end (699), and the first end is on the opposite side of the second end.

79. The container (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) according to claim 1 or 73, wherein the first fans (R3, R3a, R3b) guide the first volume (V1) in a first direction, and the second fans (R3, R3a, R3b) guide the second volume (V2) in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

80. A method for maintaining containers (110, 410, 510, 610, 710) within a predetermined temperature range, (a) Using the first temperature sensor (S1), a first temperature value is detected at a first location inside the container (114, 414, 514, 614, 714), (b) Using the second temperature sensor (S2), a second temperature value is detected at the second location inside the container, (c) Determining whether at least one of the first temperature value or the second temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (d) In response to determining that the first temperature value is outside the predetermined temperature range, (i) Using at least first fans (F1, R3), guide a first volume of air to the first location inside the interior, (ii) Using a second fan (F2, R4), guide a second volume of the air to the second location inside the container, thereby altering the flow around the temperature-sensitive cargo (112, 112a, 112b, 712), Includes, A method wherein the first volume of the air is greater than the second volume of the air, and the temperature change at the first location is greater than the temperature change at the second location.

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