Temperature-controlled shipping containers and temperature-controlled shipping container assemblies

Abstract

To simply pack a constant temperature transport package, a constant temperature transport container (10) according to the present invention comprises, on the outer side of a heat insulating container (X), storage parts (11a-14a, 16a) for storing a heat storage material (P) on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of short-side surface parts (11, 13), long-side surface parts (12, 14), and a lower surface part (16).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an isothermal transport container and an isothermal transport container assembly. [Background technology]

[0002] Methods for transporting or storing items such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cells, specimens, organs, chemical substances, or food in a cooled or heated state include the following. Specifically, a pre-frozen or pre-solidified cold storage material or heat storage material is placed in an insulated container to create a thermally insulated transport container, and the latent heat of fusion or solidification of the cold storage material or heat storage material is used to transport or store the items contained in the thermally insulated transport container while maintaining their temperature. This method also allows for the use of pre-melted cold storage material or heat storage material. To maintain the aforementioned items to be kept warm (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "temperature-maintained items") within a predetermined temperature range (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "controlled temperature") for an extended period of time, it is considered preferable to use a constant-temperature transport container equipped with a cold storage material or heat storage material having a melting temperature within the predetermined temperature range and an insulated container. Typically, the temperature-maintained items are transported as a constant-temperature transport package, in which the temperature-maintained items are packed in a constant-temperature transport container.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a constant temperature transport container that can be assembled by fitting four side wall panels, a bottom panel, and a top panel together. Patent Document 2 also discloses a constant temperature transport container that allows heat storage material to be inserted from the side of the side wall panels. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2014 / 125878 [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 2699481 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the constant temperature transport containers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 still have room for improvement in terms of ease of packing the heat storage material into the insulated container.

[0006] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a constant temperature transport container that allows a heat storage material to be easily packed into an insulated container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, one embodiment of the present invention provides a constant temperature transport container comprising an insulated container and a heat storage material, wherein the insulated container has a rectangular box shape with a cargo compartment formed inside, the insulated container has side portions, an upper portion, and a lower portion, and is characterized in that on the outside of the insulated container, at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side portions and the lower portion is provided with a storage section for storing the heat storage material. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, the heat storage material can be easily packed into the insulated container. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 101 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container according to embodiment 1 of the present invention, 102 and 103 are plan views showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container according to embodiment 1 of the present invention, and 104 is a plan view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container of variant 1. [Figure 2] 201 to 209 are side views showing an example of a storage material stored in a storage section of a constant temperature transportation container according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1A to 1C are cross-sectional views illustrating the state of storage materials in the storage sections of the side, top, and bottom views of the constant temperature transportation container according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transport container on which a temperature-retaining item can be placed horizontally when the end face of the heat storage material is arranged inside the inner surface of the lower surface portion. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transport container on which a temperature-maintaining item can be placed horizontally when the end face of the heat storage material is arranged on the outside relative to the inner surface of the lower surface portion. FIG. [Figure 6] 601 and 602 are perspective views showing the configurations of modified examples 2 and 3 of the constant temperature transportation container according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a graph plotting the temperature of the ice storage material composition against time when the ice storage material composition in a solidified state is placed in a thermostatic chamber and the temperature of the thermostatic chamber is increased from an extremely low temperature at a constant temperature increase rate. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a constant temperature transportation container assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 9 shows an example of a fitting structure between constant temperature transport containers of the constant temperature transport container assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which 901 is a plan view and 902 is a perspective view. [Figure 10] 1001 to 1003 are cross-sectional views showing specific examples of two constituent units of a constant temperature transportation container applicable to the constant temperature transportation container assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1101 to 1103 are cross-sectional views showing specific examples of four constituent units of a constant temperature transportation container applicable to the constant temperature transportation container assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a constant temperature transport container assembly in which four constant temperature transport containers are loaded in four stages. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a constant temperature transport container assembly in which four constant temperature transport containers are loaded in four stages. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a constant temperature transport container assembly in which four constant temperature transport containers are loaded in four stages. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16]1601 and 1602 are cross-sectional views showing an example of the configuration of a side wall panel provided in a constant temperature transportation container according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a first modified example of a constant temperature transportation container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the side wall panel of a constant temperature transport container when two or more types of heat storage materials and / or cold storage materials with different solidified / melted states are used. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] 2101 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and 2102 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a side wall panel of the constant temperature transport container according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [Technical idea of ​​one embodiment of the present invention] The constant temperature transport containers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are manufactured by loading heat storage material onto each wall panel and then assembling the wall panels. That is, the constant temperature transport containers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are configured such that heat storage material cannot be loaded into the insulated container in the state where only the wall panels are assembled. Therefore, it is difficult to pack the heat storage material into the insulated container.

[0011] The present inventors have conducted extensive research into simplifying the packing of heat storage material into a thermally insulated container, and have come up with the idea that if a constant temperature transport container is configured so that the user can pack the heat storage material from the outer wall surface side of the thermally insulated container, the time and effort required for packing the heat storage material into the thermally insulated container can be significantly reduced, leading to the development of the constant temperature transport container of this embodiment.

[0012] Here, the constant temperature transport container can be used in the form of (1) an assembly in which multiple containers are connected sideways or stacked vertically, or (2) a single container that is not connected or stacked. The above-mentioned problem of "simplifying the packing of heat storage material into an insulated container" is a problem that can arise in both of the above-mentioned forms (1) and (2).

[0013] Various embodiments will be described below, with the constant temperature transport container of embodiment 1 being configured primarily (1) to be suitable for use in an assembled form, and the constant temperature transport containers of embodiments 2 to 7 being configured primarily (2) to be suitable for use in a stand-alone form.

[0014] [Embodiment 1] In the above (1) use in the form of an assembly, the constant temperature transport containers disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 have room for improvement in terms of the ease of packing the heat storage material into the side and bottom surfaces.

[0015] The constant temperature transport container and constant temperature transport container assembly of embodiment 1 not only have the effect of allowing for easy packing of the constant temperature transport package, but also have the effect of improving the workability of packing the heat storage material into each side surface and bottom surface when used in the form of an assembly of the constant temperature transport container.

[0016] (Configuration of constant temperature transport container 10) An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below. 101 in Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container 10 according to this embodiment, and 102 and 103 in Fig. 1 are plan views showing the schematic configuration of the constant temperature transport container 10.

[0017] As shown by 101 to 103 in FIG. 1 , a constant temperature transport container 10 according to this embodiment includes an insulated container X and a storage material T (fitting member). The insulated container X includes a container body made of foamed plastic and having a rectangular shape in plan view, with a cargo compartment A formed therein. The container body has short side surface portions 11 and 13, long side surface portions 12 and 14, an upper surface portion 15, and a lower surface portion 16. The storage material T is a heat storage material P. In this specification, the side of the container body of the insulated container X facing the cargo compartment A is referred to as the inside, and the side opposite the cargo compartment A is referred to as the outside, with respect to the short side surface portions 11 and 13, the long side surface portions 12 and 14, the upper surface portion 15, and the lower surface portion 16.

[0018] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to this embodiment is provided with a storage section for storing the storage material T on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the short side surface portions 11 and 13, the long side surface portions 12 and 14, and the bottom surface portion 16 on the outside of the container body. More specifically, storage sections 11a and 13a for storing the storage material T are provided on the outside of the short side surface portions 11 and 13, respectively. Furthermore, storage sections 12a and 14a for storing the storage material T are provided on the outside of the long side surface portions 12 and 14, respectively. Furthermore, the constant temperature transport container 10 is further configured to include a storage section 15a on the top surface portion 15 on the outside of the container body, for storing the storage material T.

[0019] Although not shown, a storage section for storing storage material T is also provided on the outside of the lower surface portion 16. This storage section has the same configuration as the storage sections 11a to 15a, so a description thereof will be omitted. Also, the storage section 15a provided on the upper surface portion 15 is similar to the storage sections 11a to 14a, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0020] As shown by 102 and 103 in FIG. 1 , the storage sections 11a to 14a have recesses 11b to 14b that fit with the shape of the compartment A side of a storage item T, which is one heat storage material P. More specifically, the recesses 11b to 14b each have an outer opening so that the storage item T can be inserted from the outside. Each of the recesses 11b to 14b is shaped from the outer opening toward the inside to fit with the shape of the storage item T on the compartment A side. In each of the storage sections 11a to 14a, the storage item T fits so as to be flush with at least the outer surfaces of the short-side side surface portions 11 and 13 and the long-side side surface portions 12 and 14.

[0021] Further, inner openings 11c to 14c are formed inside the recesses 11b to 14b, respectively. The inner openings 11c to 14c are openings that connect the recesses 11b to 14b, respectively, with the luggage compartment A. The opening dimensions of the inner openings 11c to 14c are smaller than the dimensions of the outer openings of the recesses 11b to 14b, respectively. With this configuration, the stored item T inserted from the outside into the recesses 11b to 14b, respectively, is prevented from moving inward from the inner openings 11c to 14c, respectively. Because the inner openings 11c to 14c are provided in this manner, the stored item T stored in the storage sections 11a to 14a, i.e., the heat storage material P, is exposed inside the luggage compartment A. This improves the temperature retention inside the luggage compartment A.

[0022] Next, a method for assembling a constant temperature transport container 10 in which temperature-maintaining items are stored in the cargo compartment A will be described. In this method, first, an insulated container X is prepared. The insulated container X may be manufactured by a known method, for example, a container manufactured in advance in a box shape (hereinafter also referred to as an integrated container) as described in JP 2019-131278 A, or a container manufactured by assembling wall panels (hereinafter also referred to as an assembled container) as described in JP 2019-163079 A. Referring to JP 2019-163079 A, ​​wall panels that constitute the short side surface portions 11, 13, long side surface portions 12, 14, top surface portion 15, and bottom surface portion 16 of the insulated container X are prepared, and the prepared wall panels are assembled to manufacture the insulated container X. The constant temperature transportation container 10 is then completed by fitting the storage material T into the storage sections 11a to 15a and the storage section of the bottom surface section 16 from the outside of the insulated container X. The temperature-retaining items may be stored in advance when the insulated container X is in an open state, or may be stored after the storage material T has been installed.

[0023] In this way, according to the configuration of the constant temperature transport container 10, on the outside of the container body of the insulated container X, a storage section (storage sections 11a to 14a) for storing the storage material T is provided on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the short side surface portions 11 and 13, the long side surface portions 12 and 14, and the bottom surface portion 16. Therefore, the storage material T can be inserted from the outside of the insulated container X.

[0024] Here, the constant temperature transport container described in Patent Document 1 or 2 is manufactured by loading heat storage material onto each wall panel and then assembling the wall panels. That is, the constant temperature transport container described in Patent Document 1 or 2 is configured such that heat storage material cannot be loaded into the insulated container in the state where only the wall panels are assembled. Therefore, with the constant temperature transport container described in Patent Document 1 or 2, a constant temperature transport container assembly cannot be constructed until heat storage material has been loaded onto each wall panel. Therefore, when used in the form of a constant temperature transport container assembly, the constant temperature transport containers disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 have room for improvement in terms of the ease of packing heat storage material into each side surface and bottom surface.

[0025] According to the configuration of the constant temperature transport container 10 of this embodiment, the contents T can be inserted from the outside of the insulated container X. Therefore, after the contents T are loaded into the storage compartments on the wall surfaces of the insulated containers X, the insulated containers X can be connected to each other to construct a constant temperature transport container assembly. Unlike the constant temperature transport containers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, there is no need to load heat storage material onto each wall panel. Therefore, the constant temperature transport container 10 of this embodiment improves the workability of packing the contents T into the insulated container X. Furthermore, when used in the form of a constant temperature transport container assembly, the insulated containers X can be prepared in advance for each constant temperature transport container 10, and the contents T can be packed during the construction of the constant temperature transport container assembly, thereby reducing the work required to construct the constant temperature transport container assembly. In other words, the constant temperature transport container 10 of this embodiment allows for easy packing of a constant temperature transport package.

[0026] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to this embodiment has the above-described effects whether the insulated container X is an integrated type or an assembled type. From the viewpoint of ease of constructing a constant temperature transport container assembly, the insulated container X is preferably an integrated type. Furthermore, the size of the insulated container X is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of ease of constructing a constant temperature transport container assembly, it is preferably a handheld size that is easy for a user to carry by hand.

[0027] 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a first modified example of the constant temperature transport container 10. The constant temperature transport container 10A as the first modified example differs from the configurations shown in 101 to 103 in FIG. 1 in that a storage material T0 is further provided in the cargo compartment A inside the insulated container X. The storage material T0 is a heat storage material P0. The heat storage material P0 may be the same as or different from the heat storage material P. When the heat storage material P0 is different from the heat storage material P, the heat storage material P can indirectly control the temperature of the heat storage material P0 via a portion in the insulated container X that is interposed between the heat storage material P and P0. Even with this configuration, the workability of packing the storage material T into the insulated container X can be improved when used in the form of a constant temperature transport container assembly.

[0028] All of the storage materials T stored in the multiple storage sections of the constant temperature transportation container 10 do not need to be heat storage materials P, as long as at least one of the storage sections is heat storage material P. Reference numerals 201 to 207 in Fig. 2 are side views showing examples of storage materials T stored in the storage sections of the constant temperature transportation container 10. It is assumed that the storage materials shown in 201 to 207 in Fig. 2 will be stored in the storage sections of the constant temperature transportation container 10 shown in 101 and 102 in Fig. 1.

[0029] 2, the storage material T1 may be a heat insulating material I1 that fits into the recess (e.g., recess 11b, etc.) of the storage section. When used in the form of, for example, a constant temperature transport container assembly 100, the storage material T1 functions as a gap filler that fills the gap created by the opposing storage sections of two adjacent heat insulating containers X.

[0030] 2, the storage material T2 may be a thermal insulator I2 having a different shape from the thermal insulator I1. The thermal insulator I2 has a shape that fits into both the recess (e.g., recess 11b) and the inner opening (e.g., inner opening 11c) of the storage section. The thermal insulator I2 has a protrusion on the inside that fits into the inner opening. The thermal insulator I2 fits into the storage section so as to be flush with the wall that constitutes the luggage compartment A.

[0031] In the configurations shown at 101 to 103 in FIG. 1, the storage material T is a single type of heat storage material P. However, as shown at 203 in FIG. 2, the storage material T3 may be an assembly in which two heat storage materials P1 and P2 having different melting temperature ranges are stacked. In this case, the storage section that houses the assembly has a recess that fits into the shape of the luggage compartment A side of the assembly. In other words, the assembly has a shape that fits into the recess (e.g., recess 11b) of the storage section.

[0032] 2, the storage material T4 may be an assembly in which the heat storage material P3 and the heat insulating material I3 are stacked. Similar to the storage material T3, the assembly is shaped to fit into the recess (e.g., recess 11b) of the storage part. From the viewpoint of heat insulation, the storage material T4 is preferably configured so that the heat storage material P3 is disposed on the inside.

[0033] 2, the storage material T5 may be an assembly in which the heat storage materials P4 and P5 and the heat insulating material I4 are stacked. Similar to the storage material T4, the assembly is shaped to fit into the recess (e.g., recess 11b) of the storage section. The heat storage materials P4 and P5 have different melting temperature ranges. From the viewpoint of heat insulation, the storage material T5 is preferably configured such that the heat storage materials P4 and P5 are arranged on the inside.

[0034] 2, the storage material T6 may be an assembly of a heat storage material P6 and a heat insulating material I5. From the viewpoint of heat insulation, the storage material T6 is preferably configured so that the heat storage material P6 is disposed on the inside. The storage material T6 has a shape that fits into both the recess (e.g., recess 11b) and the inner opening (e.g., inner opening 11c) of the storage part. In this case, the storage part has a recess that fits into the shape of the storage material T6 on the side of the luggage compartment A, i.e., the shape of the heat storage material P6 on the side of the luggage compartment A. Specifically, the heat storage material P6 has a protrusion on the inside that fits into the inner opening. The storage material T6 fits into the storage part so as to be flush with the wall that constitutes the luggage compartment A.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in 207 in FIG. 2, the storage item T7 may be an assembly of a heat storage material P7 and a heat insulating material I6. The heat storage material P7 has a flat plate shape that fits into the inner opening (e.g., inner opening 11c, etc.). The heat insulating material I6 has a flat plate shape that fits into the recess (e.g., recess 11b, etc.) of the storage section. The heat storage material P7 is a plastic container that contains a heat storage component or a cold storage component (liquid). Therefore, the heat storage material P8 does not deform depending on the posture of the storage item T7 when it is installed.

[0036] 2, the storage material T8 may be an assembly of a heat storage material P8 and a heat insulating material I6. The heat storage material P8 is a heat storage material in the form of a bag that fits within the inner opening (for example, the inner opening 11c, etc.). The heat storage material P8 is a heat storage component or a cold storage component (liquid) sealed in a film bag or the like. Therefore, the heat storage material P8 deforms depending on the posture of the storage material T8 when it is installed.

[0037] 2, the storage material T9 may be a heat storage material P9. The heat storage material P9 has a shape that fits into both the recess (e.g., recess 11b, etc.) and the inner opening (e.g., inner opening 11c, etc.) of the storage part. The heat storage material P9 has a protrusion on the inside that fits into the inner opening. The heat storage material P9 fits into the storage part so as to be flush with the wall that forms the luggage compartment A.

[0038] (Regarding the storage state of the storage material T in the storage sections 11a to 16a) As described above, the storage items are fitted into storage sections 11a-16a so as to be flush with the outer surfaces of the walls (short side surface sections 11 and 13, long side surface sections 12 and 14, top surface section 15, and bottom surface section 16) that make up luggage compartment A. However, the storage items do not necessarily need to be fitted into each of storage sections 11a-16a. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the storage state of the storage items in each of the side, top, and bottom surfaces. Note that the following description will use storage item T7, shown as 207 in FIG. 2, as an example of the storage item. However, it goes without saying that the storage state of the storage items based on the following description does not only apply to storage item T7. Also, in FIG. 3, short side surface sections 11 and 13 and long side surface sections 12 and 14 are collectively referred to as side surface section 17, and the storage section, recess, and inner opening of side surface section 17 are referred to as storage section 17a, recess 17b, and inner opening 17c.

[0039] The insulating material I6 arranged on the outside of the storage item T7 is shaped to fit into the recesses 15b, 16b, or 17b. The insulating material I6 does not deform depending on the posture of the storage item T7 when it is installed. Preferably, the insulating material I6 fits flush with the outer surfaces of the walls (top surface 15, bottom surface 16, and side surface 17) that make up the luggage compartment A.

[0040] Furthermore, the heat storage material P7 arranged inside the storage item T7 only needs to be partially accommodated in the inner opening 15c or 17c of the accommodation section 15a or 17a. That is, as long as the temperature-retaining items in the luggage compartment A are not damaged, the inner end surface of the heat storage material P7 may be positioned inside or outside the inner surface of the top surface portion 15 or the side surface portion 17. Furthermore, the heat storage material P7 may be in contact with or spaced apart from the wall portion that constitutes the inner opening 15c or 17c. Preferably, the heat storage material P7 is flush with the inner surface of the top surface portion 15 or the side surface portion 17.

[0041] 2. In addition, the storage section 15a or 17a may store a storage material T8 shown in 208 in Fig. 2 instead of the storage material T7. That is, the inner heat storage material may be a heat storage material P8 in which a heat storage component or a cold storage component (liquid) is sealed in a film bag or the like.

[0042] On the other hand, in the storage section 16a, it is preferable that the inner end face of the heat storage material P7 is flush with the inner surface of the lower surface section 16. If the inner end face of the heat storage material P7 is not flush with the inner surface of the lower surface section 16, a protrusion or depression will occur on the inner surface of the lower surface section 16. For this reason, when placing a temperature-maintaining item in the luggage compartment A, it may not be possible to place the temperature-maintaining item horizontally.

[0043] Note that, as long as the constant temperature transportation container has a structure that allows a temperature-maintaining item to be placed horizontally, the end face of the heat storage material P7 does not need to be flush with the inner surface of the lower surface portion 16. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transportation container that allows a temperature-maintaining item to be placed horizontally when the end face of the heat storage material P7 is arranged inside the inner surface of the lower surface portion 16.

[0044] 4, in the accommodation portions 15a, 16a, and 17a, the heat storage material P7 is accommodated so that its inner end face is positioned inside the inner faces of the upper surface portion 15, the lower surface portion 16, and the side surface portion 17. Therefore, protrusions are generated on the inner faces of the upper surface portion 15, the lower surface portion 16, and the side surface portion 17.

[0045] Here, the constant temperature transport container shown in FIG. 4 is equipped with an item holder 18 inside the luggage compartment A. The item holder 18 includes an item holder main body 18a and a support portion 18b. The item holder main body 18a forms a space for storing temperature-maintaining items. The support portion 18b supports the item holder main body 18a inside the luggage compartment A. The support portion 18b is disposed so as to be spaced apart from the side portion 17, extends in the vertical direction, and abuts against the upper surface portion 15 and the lower surface portion 16. The support portion 18b supports the item holder main body 18a so as to be spaced apart from the inner surfaces of the upper surface portion 15, the lower surface portion 16, and the side portion 17. This allows the temperature-maintaining items to be placed horizontally. Furthermore, the item holder 18 can protect the temperature-maintaining items from the storage item T7, for example, even if the storage item T7 becomes disengaged and a portion of the storage item T7 protrudes inward.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transportation container on which a temperature-maintaining item can be placed horizontally when the end face of the heat storage material P7 is arranged on the outer side relative to the inner face of the lower surface portion 16.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 5, in storage sections 15a and 16a, heat storage material P7 is stored so that its inner end surface is located outward from the inner surfaces of upper surface section 15 and lower surface section 16. Furthermore, of the storage sections 17a of the four side surface sections 17, at least one storage section 17a stores storage material T8 shown as 208 in Fig. 2, and the other storage sections 17a store storage material T7. In storage section 17a of side surface section 17, heat storage material P7 or P8 is stored so that its inner end surface is located outward from the inner surface of side surface section 17. Therefore, depressions are formed on the inner surfaces of upper surface section 15, lower surface section 16, and side surface section 17.

[0048] 5 includes wall fittings 19a and 19b inside compartment A. Wall fitting 19a is a flat plate that covers at least inner opening 16c. Wall fitting 19b is a flat plate that covers at least inner opening 17c of storage section 17a in which storage item T8 is stored.

[0049] The wall fittings 19a make the inner surface of the lower surface portion 16 flat, so that a temperature-maintaining article can be placed horizontally.

[0050] The wall fittings 19b provided on the side surface portion 17 may be provided as needed. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, when the wall fittings 19b are provided for the storage material T8, the deformable heat storage material P8 can be prevented from jumping out inward.

[0051] 6 are perspective views showing the configurations of modified examples 2 and 3 of the constant temperature transportation container 10 according to this embodiment. The constant temperature transportation containers 10B and 10C of modified examples 2 and 3 differ from the configurations shown in 101 to 103 in FIG. 1 in that the types of materials stored in each storage section are different.

[0052] As shown in 601 in Fig. 6, in the constant temperature transport container 10B of the second modification, the storage section 11a of the short side surface section 11 contains a storage material T, which is a heat storage material P. In addition, both the storage section 12a of the long side surface section 12 and the storage section 15a of the top surface section 15 contain the same type of storage material, for example, the storage material T1 (thermal insulating material I1) shown in 201 in Fig. 2. The storage materials contained in the storage sections 12a and 15a are not particularly limited as long as they are the same type, and for example, the storage materials T2 to T9 shown in 201 to 209 in Fig. 2 may be contained.

[0053] As shown in 602 in FIG. 6, in the constant temperature transport container 10C of the third modification, different types of storage materials are stored in the storage section 11a of the short side surface portion 11, the storage section 12a of the long side surface portion 12, and the storage section 15a of the top surface portion 15. For example, the storage section 11a of the short side surface portion 11 stores the storage material T3 shown at 203 in FIG. 2. The storage section 12a of the long side surface portion 12 stores the storage material T4 shown at 204 in FIG. 2. The storage section 15a of the top surface portion 15 stores the storage material T1 (insulating material I1) shown at 201 in FIG. 2. The storage materials stored in the storage sections 11a, 12a, and 15a are not particularly limited as long as they are different types. For example, the storage materials T2 to T9 shown at 201 to 209 in FIG. 2 may be stored in any suitable combination.

[0054] (Insulated container X material) Here, the material for the insulated container X is not particularly limited as long as it has thermal insulation properties, and well-known foamed plastics and vacuum insulation materials are preferably used. Specific examples of foamed plastics include foamed polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, and poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate)-based resins. When using foamed plastics, the container shape can be pre-formed by molding foamed plastic particles in a mold, or by cutting and pasting or assembling a sheet of foamed plastic board. Particularly considering the assembly of multiple containers on a pallet, containers molded from foamed plastic particles in a mold are easier to handle than sheet-shaped foamed plastic boards. Furthermore, in terms of excellent thermal insulation properties, those containing a radiation heat transfer inhibitor are preferred. For example, carbon-containing bead foam molded bodies containing carbon that can act as a radiation heat transfer inhibitor are exemplified. Here, examples of carbon include graphite, graphene, activated carbon, coke, and carbon black. From the perspective of balancing cost and thermal insulation improvement effects, graphite and carbon black are preferred, with graphite being more preferred. Examples of vacuum heat insulating materials include those that use silica powder, glass wool, glass fiber, or the like as a core material.

[0055] Furthermore, the insulated container X may be made of a combination of two or more types of foamed plastics, such as a combination of foamed polyethylene and foamed polystyrene.

[0056] Furthermore, the insulated container X may be made of a combination of foamed plastic and vacuum insulation material. In this case, a transport container with high thermal insulation performance can be obtained by covering the outer or inner surface of the insulated container X made of foamed plastic with vacuum insulation material, or by embedding vacuum insulation material inside the wall constituting the insulated container X.

[0057] (About heat storage materials) The heat storage materials P, P0 to P9 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as heat storage materials) used in this embodiment will be described. The heat storage material here encompasses not only the heat storage material itself but also the cold storage material. That is, the storage material used in this embodiment includes at least one of a heat storage material and a cold storage material. The heat storage material or cold storage material is a heat storage component or a cold storage component sealed in a plastic container, a film bag, or the like. Note that when a heat storage component or a cold storage component sealed in a film bag or the like is used as the heat storage material, the heat storage material deforms depending on the orientation of the storage material. Therefore, in this case, the heat storage material is arranged on the innermost side. For example, when applying the heat storage material to storage material T5 shown in 205 in FIG. 2, the heat storage material cannot be applied to heat storage material P4, but can be applied to heat storage material P5.

[0058] The material of the container or bag into which the heat storage component or cold storage component is filled is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polyester, etc. One of these materials may be used alone, or a multilayer structure made by combining two or more of these materials may be used to improve heat resistance and barrier properties. The shape of this container or bag is also not particularly limited, but a shape that can ensure a large surface area is preferred from the perspective of improving the heat exchange rate.

[0059] The heat storage material is preferably at least one of a latent heat storage material and a cold storage material. A latent heat storage material or a cold storage material utilizes thermal energy accompanying a phase transition of a heat storage component or a cold storage component, and utilizes thermal energy absorbed when the heat storage component or the cold storage component transitions from a solidified state (solid) to a molten state (liquid), or thermal energy released when the phase transitions from a molten state (liquid) to a solidified state (solid).

[0060] The solidification / melting temperature of a heat storage component or a cold storage component is the temperature at which its phase changes from a solidified state (solid) to a molten state (liquid), or from a molten state (liquid) to a solidified state (solid). In this specification, the "melting temperature" of a cold storage material composition means "the temperature exhibited by the solid cold storage material composition when the solid cold storage material composition melts and liquefies." The above "melting temperature" will be explained more specifically using FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a graph plotting the temperature of the cold storage material composition against time when the solidified cold storage material composition is placed in a thermostatic chamber and the temperature of the thermostatic chamber is increased from an extremely low temperature at a constant heating rate. As shown in Figure 2, compared to the temperature of the thermostatic bath, which rises at a constant rate, the temperature of the cold storage material composition changes in the following order (1) to (3): (1) rises at a constant rate; (2) at temperature T1, the temperature hardly changes due to the latent heat of the cold storage material composition, and is maintained at a constant temperature from temperature T1 to temperature T2; (3) at temperature T2, the temperature begins to rise again. In this specification, temperature T1 is referred to as the "melting start temperature," and temperature T2 is referred to as the "melting end temperature." Temperature T3, which is the midpoint between temperatures T1 and T2, is defined as the "melting temperature."

[0061] The phase state generally refers to the three phase states of a substance: solid, liquid, and gas, but in this embodiment, the solid and liquid phase states are used. The phase state of the heat storage component or cold storage component refers to a phase state of 50% or more by weight, for example, a phase state in which 80% by weight of the heat storage component is solid and 20% by weight is liquid is solid (solidified state).

[0062] The composition constituting the latent heat storage component or cold storage component used in this embodiment is not particularly limited, and for example, the compositions disclosed in International Publication No. 2014 / 125878, International Publication No. 2019 / 151074, International Publication No. 2016 / 068256, International Publication No. 2019 / 172260, International Publication No. 2018 / 180506, etc. can be used.

[0063] The constant temperature transport container according to this embodiment may contain one type of heat storage material and / or cold storage material (either a heat storage material or a cold storage material, or both). When the outside air temperature is lower than the control temperature, such as in winter, the temperature is adjusted to a temperature higher than the freezing / melting temperature of the heat storage material and / or cold storage material to be contained and placed in a molten state. In this case, the heat storage material and / or cold storage material is cooled by the outside air temperature, lowering its temperature, and releasing thermal energy to undergo a phase transition from a molten state (liquid) to a solidified state (solid), thereby preventing the temperature-retaining item from being exposed to the outside air and maintaining the temperature within a predetermined range.

[0064] On the other hand, when the outside air temperature is higher than the control temperature, such as in summer, the temperature is adjusted to a temperature lower than the freezing / melting temperature of the heat storage material and / or cold storage material to be stored and placed, and the material is placed in a solidified state. In this case, the heat storage material and / or cold storage material is heated by the outside air temperature and its temperature rises, and it absorbs thermal energy to undergo a phase transition from a solidified state (solid) to a molten state (liquid), thereby preventing the temperature retention item from being exposed to the outside air and maintaining it within a specified temperature range.

[0065] When a heat storage material and / or cold storage material consisting of one of these is used, the influence of temperature rise and fall caused by the temperature difference with the outside air can be suppressed by the release / absorption action of the latent heat energy possessed by the single heat storage material and / or cold storage material component via the insulating material that constitutes the constant temperature transport container, and the temperature can be maintained within a predetermined temperature range for a certain period of time. However, it is necessary to adjust the heat storage material and / or cold storage material to a specified temperature in advance in relation to the external environmental temperature, which is cumbersome, and the quantity / weight of the heat storage material and cold storage material used tends to increase in order to maintain the temperature for a long period of time.

[0066] In this embodiment, multiple heat storage materials with different melting temperature ranges may be used. In the constant temperature transport container according to this embodiment, for example, as shown in 203 in FIG. 2, two or more types of heat storage materials and / or cold storage materials with different solidification and melting states can be stored and arranged in the storage material T3. For example, when using a first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) and a second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) to maintain the same temperature control conditions throughout the year regardless of the outside air temperature, the following combination of heat storage materials P1 and P2 is exemplified. The heat storage material P2 closest to the temperature-retaining item may contain the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) whose solidification and melting temperature is near the control temperature and is in a melted state, and the heat storage material P1 on the outer periphery of the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) may contain the second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) whose solidification and melting temperature is 0°C or lower and is in a solidified state.

[0067] Furthermore, when a first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) and a second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) are used, the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) may be molten at a temperature higher than the control temperature, and the second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) may be solidified and frozen at a temperature lower than the melting temperature of the second heat storage material or cold storage material (b). In this case, the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) is accommodated in the heat storage material P2 closest to the temperature-keeping item, and the second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) is accommodated in the heat storage material P1. The second heat storage material or cold storage material (b), arranged outside the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a), functions as a thermal buffer against the outside air temperature to maintain the temperature of the temperature-keeping item within a desired temperature range.

[0068] When two or more types of heat storage material and / or cold storage material with different solidified / melted states are used, the effects of temperature rise and fall due to the temperature difference with the outside air can be suppressed by using a second heat storage material or cold storage material (b) placed outside a first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) placed adjacent to the temperature retention item, which acts as a thermal buffer, via the insulating material that makes up the container. Due to the temperature interaction between the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) and the second heat storage material or cold storage material (b), the first heat storage material or cold storage material (a) in a molten state is cooled and its temperature drops, and it releases thermal energy to undergo a phase transition from a molten state (liquid) to a solidified state (solid), thereby protecting the temperature retention item from both temperatures higher and lower than its own temperature. As a result, the amount of heat storage material or cold storage material used can be reduced, and the temperature retention item can be maintained within a specified temperature range for a longer period of time.

[0069] (Construction of the isothermal transport container assembly) FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment. For simplicity of the drawing, FIG. 8 omits the storage material and storage section. The constant temperature transport container assembly 100A is configured such that a relatively small number (about one layer) of constant temperature transport containers 10 are loaded on a pallet 20. The constant temperature transport container assembly 100B is configured such that a medium number of constant temperature transport containers 10 are loaded on a pallet 20. The constant temperature transport container assembly 100C is configured such that a large number of constant temperature transport containers 10 are loaded on a pallet 20. According to this embodiment, the constant temperature transport containers 10 are provided with a concave-convex fitting portion. Therefore, by fitting adjacent constant temperature transport containers 10 together, the load capacity of the constant temperature transport containers 10 can be appropriately set, and a constant temperature transport container assembly that can stably hold the constant temperature transport containers 10 can be realized. In addition, for constant temperature transport container assemblies 100B or 100C with a medium or large load of constant temperature transport containers 10, a cover 30 may be provided to cover the contents of the constant temperature transport containers 10. By providing the cover 30, the following effects can be achieved: (a) The fixedness of the fitted constant temperature transport containers 10 can be strengthened. (b) The adhesion between the fitted constant temperature transport containers 10 can be increased, and the gaps between the constant temperature transport containers 10 can be reduced. (c) Cold or hot air leaking through the gaps between the fitted constant temperature transport containers 10 can be retained. (d) Direct external damage to the constant temperature transport container 10 can be avoided.

[0070] Generally, when transporting temperature-maintained items at a constant temperature using a single large constant temperature transport container, there is a risk that if any part of the constant temperature transport container is damaged, the temperature of all temperature-maintained items contained in that constant temperature transport container will no longer be able to be maintained. According to the constant temperature transport container assemblies 100A-100C of this embodiment, even if any part of the constant temperature transport container assemblies 100A-100C is damaged, only the temperature-maintained items contained in the damaged constant temperature transport container 10 will be unable to maintain their temperature, while the temperature-maintained items contained in the undamaged constant temperature transport container 10 will still be able to maintain their temperature. In this way, with the constant temperature transport container assemblies 100A-100C, only the damaged constant temperature transport container 10 will be affected, causing the temperature of the temperature-maintained items to be unable to be maintained. This reduces the risks associated with constant temperature transport.

[0071] (Regarding fitting of constant temperature transport containers) Note that the configuration shown in Figure 8 omits the fitting structure between the constant temperature transport containers 10. The fitting structure between the constant temperature transport containers 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is a known fitting structure. An example of the fitting structure between the constant temperature transport containers 10 is the fitting structure disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-131278. Figure 9 shows an example of the fitting structure between the constant temperature transport containers 10, where 901 in Figure 9 is a plan view and 902 in Figure 9 is a perspective view. The fitting structure between the constant temperature transport containers 10 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 9. Note that in Figure 9 , the storage material and storage section are omitted for simplicity of the drawing.

[0072] 9, the multiple constant temperature transport containers 10 are structured to be interlocked with each other by fitting together. That is, the constant temperature transport container 10 has a concave-convex fitting portion formed on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side surface, top surface, and bottom surface of the insulated container X, which is the main body, so that the constant temperature transport container 10 can be connected to the insulated container of another constant temperature transport container 10.

[0073] 9, the constant temperature transport container 10 has a ridge 10a and a groove 10b that fits into the ridge 10a formed as the concave-convex fitting portion so that the constant temperature transport container 10 can be connected to the insulated container X of another constant temperature transport container 10 at the side surface of the insulated container X. The ridge 10a and the groove 10b are provided on the side surface of the insulated container X that face each other in the horizontal direction.

[0074] In addition, the constant temperature transport container 10 has a convex rib 10c and a concave groove (not shown) that fits into the convex rib 10c formed as the concave-convex fitting portion so that the constant temperature transport container 10 can be connected to the insulated container X of another constant temperature transport container 10 at the upper or lower surface of the insulated container X.

[0075] In this way, since a plurality of constant temperature transportation containers 10 are configured to be interlocked with each other, a stable constant temperature transportation container assembly can be formed.

[0076] The specific configuration of the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment will be described in more detail below. 1001 to 1003 in Fig. 10 are cross-sectional views showing an example of the configuration of two structural units of constant temperature transport containers applicable to the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment. 1001 to 1003 in Fig. 10 are longitudinal cross-sections of the constant temperature transport container assembly cut in the vertical direction. Note that the two structural units of the constant temperature transport container in the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment are not limited to the configurations shown in 1001 to 1003 in Fig. 10.

[0077] As shown in 1001 in FIG. 10 , the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment may include structural units consisting of constant temperature transport containers 10D and 10E. In constant temperature transport container 10D, stored material T4 is stored in storage section 13a of short side surface portion 13, storage section 15a of top surface portion 15, and storage section 16a of bottom surface portion 16. Stored material T4 is an assembly of heat storage material P3 and insulating material I3, with heat storage material P3 disposed on the inside and insulating material I3 disposed on the outside. In constant temperature transport container 10E, stored material T4 is stored in storage section 11a of short side surface portion 11, storage section 15a of top surface portion 15, and storage section 16a of bottom surface portion 16.

[0078] On two adjacent surfaces of the constant temperature transport containers 10D and 10E, the storage section 11a of the short side surface portion 11 of the constant temperature transport container 10D contains the storage material T3. On the other hand, the storage section 13a of the short side surface portion 13 of the constant temperature transport container 10E contains the storage material T3. The storage material T3 is an aggregate of heat storage materials P1 and P2. In the storage sections 11a and 13a, the storage material T3 is configured such that the heat storage material P2 is arranged on the inside and the heat storage material P1 is arranged on the outside.

[0079] The constant temperature transport container assembly shown in 1001 in Fig. 10 can be said to have a configuration in which a storage material composed of two types of heat storage materials P1 and P2 is housed in the partition wall separating the cargo compartment of the constant temperature transport container 10D from the cargo compartment of the constant temperature transport container 10E. The storage material can be said to have a configuration in which the heat storage material P1 is sandwiched between two heat storage materials P2 arranged inside each of the constant temperature transport containers 10D and 10E. In a preferred embodiment, the melting temperatures of the heat storage materials P2 and P3 are the same. In another preferred embodiment, the melting temperature of the heat storage material P1 is lower than the melting temperature of the heat storage material P2 so that the time for which the heat storage material P2 is maintained in the constant temperature state (2) in Fig. 7 can be extended.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in 1002 in FIG. 10, the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment may include structural units consisting of constant temperature transport containers 10F and 10G. In the constant temperature transport container 10F, the storage section 13a of the short side surface 13 and the storage section 16a of the bottom surface 16 contain the storage material T2. The storage section 15a of the top surface 15 contains the storage material T4 (thermal insulating material I3 and heat storage material P3). The storage material T2 is composed of the thermal insulating material I2. In each of the storage sections 13a and 16a, the thermal insulating material I2 has an outer portion that fits into the recesses 13b and 16b and a convex portion that fits into the inner openings 13c and 16c on the inside. In the constant temperature transport container 10G, the storage material T2 is contained in the storage section 11a of the short side surface 11 and the storage section 16a of the bottom surface 16. Furthermore, the storage portion 15a of the upper surface portion 15 stores storage material T4.

[0081] On two adjacent surfaces of the constant temperature transport containers 10F and 10G, the storage section 11a of the short side surface 11 of the constant temperature transport container 10F and the storage section 13a of the short side surface 13 of the constant temperature transport container 10G contain a storage material T7. The storage material T7 is composed of a heat storage material P7. In the storage section 11a of the constant temperature transport container 10F and the storage section 13a of the constant temperature transport container 10G, the heat storage material P7 has an outer portion that fits into the recesses 11b and 13b and an inner portion that fits into the inner openings 11c and 13c. The constant temperature transport container assembly shown in 1002 of FIG. 10 can be said to be configured such that a storage material composed of the heat storage material P7 is contained in the partition portion separating the cargo compartment of the constant temperature transport container 10F from the cargo compartment of the constant temperature transport container 10G. In a preferred embodiment, the melting temperatures of the heat storage materials P3 and P7 are the same. 10 includes a storage material T2. Therefore, a part of the storage material exposed inside the luggage compartment is made of a heat insulating material I2. The configuration shown in 1002 in FIG. 10 is an example of a configuration in which the amount of heat storage material used is reduced, thereby controlling the time for which the heat storage material P is maintained at the constant temperature state (2) in FIG. 7 to be longer or shorter.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in 1003 of FIG. 10, the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment may include a structural unit consisting of constant temperature transport containers 10H and 10I. The constant temperature transport containers 10H and 10I differ from the constant temperature transport containers 10D and 10E shown in 1001 of FIG. 10 in the configuration of the storage sections 11a', 13a', 15a', and 16a'. The storage sections 11a', 13a', 15a', and 16a' of the constant temperature transport container 10H have partition walls 11d, 13d, 15d, and 16d that separate the recesses 11b, 13b, 15b, and 16b from the cargo compartment. The same is true for the storage sections 11a', 13a', 15a', and 16a' of the constant temperature transport container 10I. That is, in the constant temperature transport container according to this embodiment, the storage section that stores the heat storage material does not need to be connected to the cargo compartment, and multiple communication holes may be present in the partition walls 11d, 13d, 15d, and 16d. The partition walls 11d, 13d, 15d, and 16d only need to be thick enough to transfer the latent heat of the stored heat storage material to the cargo compartment. The presence of the partition walls 11d, 13d, 15d, and 16d as insulating layers can extend the time during which the heat storage materials P2 and P3 are maintained at the constant temperature state (2) in FIG. 7.

[0083] Reference numerals 1101 to 1103 in Fig. 11 are cross-sectional views showing an example of the configuration of four structural units of constant temperature transport containers applicable to the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment. The four structural units are configured by two horizontally connected constant temperature transport containers stacked in two layers. Note that reference numerals 1101 to 1103 in Fig. 11 show longitudinal cross sections of the constant temperature transport container assembly cut vertically. Note that the four structural units of constant temperature transport containers in the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment are not limited to the configuration shown by reference numerals 1101 to 1103 in Fig. 11.

[0084] The constant temperature transport container assembly shown as 1101 in Fig. 11 is made up of four constant temperature transport containers 10J. The constant temperature transport container 10J stores storage material T, which is a heat storage material P, in storage section 11a of short side surface section 11, storage section 13a of short side surface section 13, storage section 15a of top surface section 15, and storage section 16a of bottom surface section 16.

[0085] The constant temperature transport container assembly shown as 1102 in Fig. 11 is made up of four constant temperature transport containers 10K. In the constant temperature transport container 10K, storage material T4 is stored in storage section 11a of short side surface portion 11, storage section 13a of short side surface portion 13, storage section 15a of top surface portion 15, and storage section 16a of bottom surface portion 16.

[0086] The constant temperature transport container assembly shown in 1103 in Figure 11 has two constant temperature transport containers 10L and two constant temperature transport containers 10M as its constituent units. In this constituent unit, two constant temperature transport containers 10L are connected horizontally. Also, two constant temperature transport containers 10M are connected horizontally. And, in the vertical direction, a connected body of constant temperature transport containers 10L is connected to the upper part of a connected body of constant temperature transport containers 10M.

[0087] In the constant temperature transport container 10L, the storage material T4 is stored in the storage section 11a of the short side surface portion 11, the storage section 13a of the short side surface portion 13, and the storage section 15a of the top surface portion 15. In the constant temperature transport container 10M, the storage material T4 is stored in the storage section 11a of the short side surface portion 11, the storage section 13a of the short side surface portion 13, and the storage section 16a of the bottom surface portion 16.

[0088] A single storage item T10 is stored in a storage section formed by two adjacent surfaces of the constant temperature transport containers 10L and 10M in the vertical direction. This storage item T10 is configured such that an insulating material I10 is sandwiched between two heat storage materials P10. In the constant temperature transport containers 10L and 10M adjacent to each other in the vertical direction, the storage section 16a on the bottom surface 16 of the constant temperature transport container 10L and the storage section 15a on the top surface 15 of the constant temperature transport container 10M are connected to form a single space. The storage item T10 is stored in this single space.

[0089] This configuration allows for the use of only one storage material T10 for the connection between the constant temperature transport containers 10L and 10M, thereby reducing the number of parts. Furthermore, the storage material T10 itself can also assist in fitting the constant temperature transport containers 10L and 10M together in the vertical direction.

[0090] Next, as an example of the configuration of a constant temperature transport container assembly loaded with a large number of constant temperature transport containers, a constant temperature transport container assembly loaded with 4 containers x 4 tiers will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 14. Figures 12 to 14 show a vertical cross section of the constant temperature transport container assembly.

[0091] In the constant temperature transport container assembly 100D shown in Fig. 12, the 4 x 4 tiered constant temperature transport containers have a first wall portion in which storage material T (thermal storage material P) is stored in the storage portion, and a second wall portion in which storage material T1 (thermal insulating material I1) is stored in the storage portion. In the 4 x 4 tiered constant temperature transport containers, the first wall portion is assigned to two adjacent wall portions. On the other hand, in the 4 x 4 tiered constant temperature transport containers, the second wall portion is assigned to a wall portion that does not have an adjacent wall portion. The wall portion assigned the second wall portion can be said to be the wall portion exposed to the outside in the constant temperature transport container assembly 100D.

[0092] 12, for example, the first wall portion in which the storage material T is accommodated is assigned to the adjacent short side surface portion 11B and short side surface portion 13A. Also, for example, the second wall portion in which the storage material T1 is accommodated is assigned to the short side surface portion 11A, the top surface portion 15A, and the bottom surface portion 16B that are exposed to the outside.

[0093] The constant temperature transport container assembly 100E shown in Fig. 13 has the first wall portion and the second wall portion, similar to the constant temperature transport container assembly 100D shown in Fig. 12. However, the constant temperature transport container assembly 100E differs from the constant temperature transport container assembly 100D in the positional relationship between the first wall portion and the second wall portion in the four-by-four tier constant temperature transport containers.

[0094] First, in a 4×4 tier constant temperature transport container, the first wall portion is assigned to two wall portions adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction. Also, in a 4×4 tier constant temperature transport container, the second wall portion is assigned to a wall portion that does not have an adjacent wall portion. Also, in a 4×4 tier constant temperature transport container, the first wall portion and the second wall portion are assigned to two wall portions adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. Of the two wall portions adjacent to each other in the vertical direction, the second wall portion is assigned to the upper wall portion, and the first wall portion is assigned to the lower wall portion.

[0095] In the constant temperature transport container assembly 100E shown in FIG. 13, for example, the first wall portion in which the storage material T is accommodated is assigned to the short side surface portion 11D and the short side surface portion 13C adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, for example, the second wall portion in which the storage material T1 is accommodated is assigned to the short side surface portion 11C, the top surface portion 15C, and the bottom surface portion 16D exposed to the outside. Furthermore, for example, the first wall portion and the second wall portion are assigned to the bottom surface portion 16C and the top surface portion 15D adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. Of the bottom surface portion 16C and the top surface portion 15D, the second wall portion is assigned to the upper bottom surface portion 16C, and the first wall portion is assigned to the lower top surface portion 15D. In the constant temperature transport container assembly shown in FIG. 13, the storage portion 16a of the bottom surface portion 16C of the constant temperature transport container 10P is located at the connecting portion B when the insulated container X1 is connected to another insulated container X2. The storage section 16a is configured to act as a heat insulating section that covers the storage material T (heat storage material P) stored in the storage section 15a of the upper surface 15D of the other insulated container X2. More specifically, the storage section 16a of the lower surface 16C of the constant temperature transport container 10P is configured to accommodate the storage material T1 (heat insulating material I1). In this configuration, the heat insulating material I1 covers the storage material T (heat storage material P) stored in the storage section 15a of the upper surface 15D of the other insulated container X2. The configuration shown in FIG. 13 can be applied when the time required to maintain the heat storage material P in the constant temperature state (2) in FIG. 7 can be shorter than that of the configuration shown in FIG. 12. Generally, the weight of the heat storage material P is greater than the weight of the insulating material I. Therefore, the configuration shown in FIG. 13 can reduce the weight of the constant temperature transport container compared to the configuration shown in FIG. 12.

[0096] The constant temperature transport container assembly 100F shown in FIG. 14 has two assigned cargo compartments Y and Z. In the four-by-four-tier constant temperature transport containers, the top two tiers correspond to cargo compartment Y, and the bottom two tiers correspond to cargo compartment Z. The constant temperature transport container belonging to cargo compartment Y contains storage material T8, which is heat storage material P2. Meanwhile, the constant temperature transport container belonging to cargo compartment Z contains storage material T9, which is heat storage material P1. The heat storage materials P1 and P2 have different melting temperature ranges. Note that when costs are added per constant temperature transport container for the means of transport of the constant temperature transport containers (e.g., air freight), the configuration shown in FIG. 14 can reduce costs because it can transport two types of temperature-maintaining items per unit volume.

[0097] 14, the constant temperature transport container assembly 100F of 4 containers x 4 tiers has a second wall portion in which the storage material T1 (thermal insulating material I1) is stored in the storage portion, a third wall portion in which the storage material T8 (thermal storage material P2) is stored in the storage portion, and a fourth wall portion in which the storage material T9 (thermal storage material P1) is stored in the storage portion. In the 4 containers x 4 tiers of constant temperature transport containers, the second wall portion is assigned to the wall portion that does not have an adjacent wall portion.

[0098] The second wall portion and the fourth wall portion are respectively assigned to two adjacent wall portions sandwiched between the boundary between the luggage compartment area Y and the luggage compartment area Z. Of the two adjacent wall portions sandwiched between the boundary between the luggage compartment area Y and the luggage compartment area Z, the wall portion belonging to the luggage compartment area Y side is assigned the second wall portion, and the wall portion belonging to the luggage compartment area Z side is assigned the fourth wall portion.

[0099] In addition, in the four-by-two-tier constant temperature transport containers belonging to the cargo area Y, the third wall portion is assigned to two adjacent wall portions. In addition, in the four-by-two-tier constant temperature transport containers belonging to the cargo area Z, the fourth wall portion is assigned to two adjacent wall portions.

[0100] 14, for example, second walls in which stored items T1 are accommodated are assigned to the short side surface portion 11E, top surface portion 15E, and bottom surface portion 16G exposed to the outside. Furthermore, for example, in a four-item-by-two-tier constant temperature transport container belonging to cargo compartment area Y, adjacent two short side surface portions 11F and 13E are assigned to third walls in which stored items T8 are accommodated. Furthermore, for example, in a four-item-by-two-tier constant temperature transport container belonging to cargo compartment area Z, adjacent two short side surface portions 11G and 13F are assigned to fourth walls in which stored items T9 are accommodated.

[0101] Furthermore, for example, the second wall portion and the fourth wall portion are assigned to each of the upper surface portion 15H and the lower surface portion 16H that are adjacent to each other across the boundary between the luggage compartment area Y and the luggage compartment area Z. In the upper surface portion 15H and the lower surface portion 16H, the second wall portion is assigned to the lower surface portion 16H that belongs to the luggage compartment area Y side, and the fourth wall portion is assigned to the upper surface portion 15H that belongs to the luggage compartment area Z side.

[0102] In the above description, the configuration of the constant temperature transport container assembly in a vertical cross section has been described. However, the constant temperature transport container assembly according to this embodiment may have a cross section cut in a horizontal direction that has the same configuration as those shown in Figures 10 to 14.

[0103] [Technical Concepts of Embodiments 2 to 7] Conventionally, when temperature-maintained items to be transported are packed into a constant-temperature transport package, the temperature-maintained items are stored in a constant-temperature storage facility until immediately before packing. Furthermore, the temperature of the heat storage material is adjusted in advance. Therefore, a method for packing a constant-temperature transport package involves bringing the temperature-maintained items and the heat storage material to a packing workshop and assembling the constant-temperature transport package there. In contrast to this packing method, when the constant-temperature transport containers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are used, many work steps are required, from loading the temperature-maintained items into the constant-temperature transport container to packing the heat storage material and wrapping the constant-temperature transport container in an outer packaging to completing the constant-temperature transport package. As a result, packing a constant-temperature transport package requires time and effort.

[0104] The present inventors have conducted extensive research into simplifying the packing of constant temperature transport packages, and have come up with the idea that if the user could pack the heat storage material from the outer wall surface side of the container body of the constant temperature transport container, the time and effort required for packing the constant temperature transport package would be significantly reduced, leading to the creation of the constant temperature transport container of this embodiment.

[0105] [Embodiment 2] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below. Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container 10-1 according to this embodiment.

[0106] The constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to this embodiment has an assembly type configuration that allows for constant temperature transport of temperature-maintaining items. As shown in Fig. 15, the constant temperature transport container 10-1 includes an insulated container X-1 and a heat storage material P. The insulated container X-1 has a rectangular box shape and includes four side wall panels 11-1, a top panel 12-1, a bottom panel 13-1, and a fitting portion 14-1.

[0107] The side wall panel 11-1 constitutes the short side surface portion or the long side surface portion. The top panel 12-1 constitutes the upper surface portion. The bottom panel 13-1 constitutes the lower surface portion. The insulated container X-1 of the constant temperature transport container 10-1 is not limited to an assembled container having four side wall panels 11-1, a top panel 12-1, and a bottom panel 13-1. The insulated container X-1 may be an integrated container in which the short side surface portion, the long side surface portion, the upper surface portion, and the lower surface portion are not constituted by panels. However, from the viewpoint of (2) use in a stand-alone form, it is preferable that the insulated container X-1 be an assembled type in which the panels can be separated from each other, thereby saving space. The size of the insulated container X-1 is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of (2) use in a stand-alone form, it is preferable that the insulated container X-1 be a large size that is difficult for a user to carry by hand rather than a handheld size.

[0108] The top panel 12-1 and the bottom panel 13-1 are composed of rectangular plates that can be separated from the four side wall panels 11-1. Each of the four side wall panels 11-1 is also composed of a rectangular plate. The rectangular plates that make up the side wall panels 11-1 are separable from one another. The cargo compartment side of the constant temperature transport container 10-1 is the inside of the side wall panels 11-1, the top panel 12-1, and the bottom panel 13-1, and the opposite side is the outside. Furthermore, the top panel 12-1 side of the constant temperature transport container 10-1 is the upper side, and the bottom panel 13-1 side is the lower side.

[0109] The four side wall panels 11-1 are connected to the top panel 12-1 and bottom panel 13-1 by known connecting means. For example, the side wall panels 11-1 are connected to the top panel 12-1 and bottom panel 13-1 by a concave-convex structure. In this case, a concave-convex fitting structure is formed between the upper end of each of the four side wall panels 11-1 and the portion of the top panel 12-1 facing the upper end. In addition, the lower end of each of the four side wall panels 11-1 is structured to fit with the bottom panel 13-1.

[0110] The four side wall panels 11-1 are connected to each other by known connecting means. For example, the four side wall panels 11-1 are connected to each other by a concave-convex structure. In this case, the rectangular plates constituting the four side wall panels 11-1 have a concave-convex fitting structure formed on the opposing portions of adjacent rectangular plates.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 15, in the constant temperature transport container 10-1, one of the four side wall panels 11-1 has a storage section 11-1a for storing the heat storage material P. The storage section 11-1a is a recess extending in the vertical direction. Note that, in the constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to this embodiment, the number of side wall panels 11-1 provided with the storage section 11-1a is not limited to one. It is sufficient that at least one of the four side wall panels 11-1 has the storage section 11-1a. Furthermore, in the constant temperature transport container 10-1, one or more storage sections 11-1a are provided on one surface of the side wall panel 11-1. Note that the constant temperature transport container 10-1 may be configured such that one storage section 11-1a is provided on one side of the side wall panel 11-1. However, from the viewpoint of arranging the heat storage material P in a balanced manner, it is preferable that multiple storage sections 11-1a are provided on one surface of the side wall panel 11-1.

[0112] The storage section 11-1a stores three heat storage materials P. These three heat storage materials P may be connected to each other or may be separate from each other. The storage section 11-1a is provided on the outer surface, i.e., the outer wall surface, of the side wall panel 11-1. The storage section 11-1a has an opening that opens to the outside. Through this opening, a user can store the heat storage materials P in the storage section 11-1a from outside the insulated container X-1.

[0113] The fitting portion 14-1 is a member that closes the opening in the storage portion 11-1a that is open to the outside. In the configuration shown in FIG. 15, the storage portion 11-1a is closed by two fitting portions 14-1 that are arranged vertically. Each fitting portion 14-1 is fitted into the storage portion 11-1a. Each fitting portion 14-1 is fitted into the storage portion 11-1a so as to be flush with the outer wall surface of the side wall panel 11-1. Since the fitting portions 14-1 are fitted into the storage portion 11-1a in this manner, it is possible to prevent outside air from flowing into the storage portion 11-1a.

[0114] Furthermore, each fitting portion 14-1 is provided with a cutout portion 14-1a. The cutout portion 14-1a is provided on the outer surface of the fitting portion 14-1. The cutout portion 14-1a functions as a handle on which a user can hook their finger when moving the fitting portion 14-1. Therefore, the dimensions of the cutout portion 14-1a need only be such that a user can hook their finger thereon. Because the cutout portion 14-1a is provided in this manner, it becomes easy for a user to attach or detach the fitting portion 14-1 to or from the storage portion 11-1a.

[0115] The cutout portion 14-1a does not penetrate into the storage portion 11-1a. The cutout portion 14-1a is formed as a recessed groove that is open to the outside and extends horizontally. In other words, the cutout portion 14-1a does not communicate between the storage space for the heat storage material P in the storage portion 11-1a and the outside. Therefore, the latent heat of the heat storage material P in the storage portion 11-1a does not leak to the outside through the fitting portion 14-1.

[0116] Furthermore, the storage section 11-1a and the luggage compartment A may or may not be in communication with each other as long as the temperature-retaining items in the luggage compartment A can be kept at a constant temperature by the heat storage material P. Preferably, the storage section 11-1a and the luggage compartment A are in communication with each other.

[0117] 15 and subsequent perspective views showing the constant temperature transport container show that the heat storage material P and the fitting portion 14-1 are provided for one of the three storage portions 11-1a. In these drawings, the heat storage material P and the fitting portion 14-1 provided for the remaining two storage portions 11-1a are omitted.

[0118] 15 as long as the storage section 11-1a can store the heat storage material P. In addition, the number and dimensions of the storage sections 11-1a can be set appropriately depending on the structure of the insulating container X-1 of the constant temperature transportation container 10-1 and the configuration of the heat storage material P.

[0119] Furthermore, the constant temperature transport container 10-1 may be configured such that the top panel 12-1 is provided with the heat storage material P, a storage section 12-1a for storing the heat storage material P, and a fitting section (not shown) that fits into the storage section 12-1a. This configuration is effective when packing the heat storage material P into the top panel 12-1 in addition to the side wall panel 11-1.

[0120] Next, a packing method for a constant temperature transportation package using the constant temperature transportation container 10-1 will be described. For example, the packing method is carried out by the following steps (1) to (4).

[0121] (1) Prepare four side wall panels 11-1, a top panel 12-1, a bottom panel 13-1, and a temperature-retaining item, and assemble the insulated container X-1 with the temperature-retaining item inside. (2) Place the heat storage material P from the outside in the storage section 11-1a of the side wall panel 11-1 (or the storage section 12-1a of the top panel 12-1, if necessary) of the assembled insulated container X-1. (3) Fit the fitting section 14-1 into the storage section 11-1a containing the heat storage material P. (4) Package the insulated container X-1 with the fitting section 14-1 fitted with an exterior material. The constant temperature transport package for the constant temperature transport container 10-1 is completed by steps (1) to (4).

[0122] In this way, in the packing method of the constant temperature transportation package using the constant temperature transportation container 10-1, the heat storage material P can be loaded from the outer wall surface of the insulated container X-1. This simplifies packing the heat storage material P into the side wall panel 11-1. Therefore, the configuration of the constant temperature transportation container 10-1 significantly reduces the time and effort required to pack the constant temperature transportation package.

[0123] Furthermore, with this packing method, it is possible to carry out in advance only the work of loading temperature-maintaining items into the insulated container X-1, and then on the day of packing the constant temperature transportation package, only the work of packing the heat storage material P into the side wall panel 11-1 can be carried out. This reduces the amount of work required on the day of packing the constant temperature transportation package. Note that the work of loading temperature-maintaining items into the insulated container X-1 may be carried out the day before packing the constant temperature transportation package.

[0124] 1601 in FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the side wall panel 11-1. In the configuration shown in 1601 in FIG. 16, the heat storage material P may have a structure having a protrusion Pa that protrudes toward the luggage compartment A side. The storage section 11-1a has a hole 11-1b that communicates with the luggage compartment A. This hole 11-1b is configured to fit with the shape of the heat storage material P on the luggage compartment A side. More specifically, the hole 11-1b has a shape that fits with the protrusion Pa of the heat storage material P. The fit between the hole 11-1b and the protrusion Pa makes it difficult for the heat storage material P to move within the storage section 11-1a, and the position is fixed. Cool air from the heat storage material P stored in the storage section 11-1a flows into the luggage compartment A through the hole 11-1b. As shown in 1602 in FIG. 16, the heat storage material P may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape without any protrusions Pa.

[0125] 17 is a plan view showing the schematic configuration of a first modified example of the constant temperature transportation container 10-1. The constant temperature transportation container 10'-1 as the first modified example differs from the configuration shown in FIG. 15 in that it further includes a heat storage material P0 in the cargo compartment A inside the insulated container X'-1. Even with this configuration, the time and effort required for packing the constant temperature transportation package is significantly reduced.

[0126] The material of the insulated container X described in the first embodiment can be applied to the material of the fitting portion 14-1.

[0127] In this embodiment, multiple heat storage materials with different melting temperature ranges may be used. The constant temperature transport containers 10-1 and 10'-1 according to this embodiment can accommodate two or more types of heat storage materials and / or cold storage materials with different solidified and melted states.

[0128] A configuration in which two or more types of heat storage material and / or cold storage material with different solidified / melted states are used is shown in Fig. 18. To give a specific example based on the configuration shown in Fig. 18, a heat storage material or cold storage material whose melting temperature is adjusted to around 5°C or 20°C corresponds to heat storage material P1, and a heat storage material or cold storage material whose melting temperature is adjusted to 0°C corresponds to heat storage material P2.

[0129] From the viewpoint of versatility of the heat storage material and / or cold storage material, the heat storage material P is preferably a connected body in which a plurality of heat storage materials and / or cold storage materials are connected. This improves workability during packing of the heat storage material P and allows it to be configured to fit a plurality of constant temperature transport containers of different dimensions. As a result, the versatility of the heat storage material P is increased.

[0130] [Embodiment 3] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0131] 19 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container 10-1A according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 19, the constant temperature transportation container 10-1A according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the configuration of the fitting portion 15-1.

[0132] The constant temperature transport container 10-1A has a configuration in which the storage section 11-1a is closed by a single fitting section 15-1. The cutout section 15-1a is configured with two sets of two horizontally aligned dot-shaped recesses, each set vertically aligned. The dimensions of each dot-shaped recess are set so that a user's finger can be inserted.

[0133] The constant temperature transportation container 10-1A according to this embodiment can also significantly reduce the time and effort required for packing the constant temperature transportation package.

[0134] [Embodiment 4] Further, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0135] 20 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container 10-1B according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 20, the constant temperature transportation container 10-1B according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the configuration of the fitting portion 16-1A.

[0136] The constant temperature transport container 10-1B has a configuration in which the storage section 11-1a is closed by a single fitting section 16-1A. Two cutout sections 16-1a and 16-1b are formed in the fitting section 16-1A and aligned vertically. The cutout section 16-1a is a groove that recesses from the outer surface of the fitting section 16-1A toward the luggage compartment A and then recesses downward partway. The cutout section 16-1b is a groove that recesses from the outer surface of the fitting section 16-1A toward the luggage compartment A and then recesses upward partway. By inserting both hands into the cutout sections 16-1a and 16-1b, the user can easily grasp the fitting section 16-1A with both hands.

[0137] The constant temperature transportation container 10-1B according to this embodiment can also significantly reduce the time and effort required for packing the constant temperature transportation package.

[0138] [Embodiment 5] Further, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0139] 21 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transport container 10-1C according to this embodiment. 2102 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the side wall panel 11-1 of the constant temperature transport container 10-1C. As shown in 2101 and 2102 of FIG. 21, the constant temperature transport container 10-1C according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the configuration of the fitting portion 16-1B. Furthermore, the fitting portion 16-1B has a different fitting structure with the storage portion 11-1a than the fitting portion 16-1A according to the fourth embodiment.

[0140] The fitting portion 16-1B has two fitting protrusions 16-1c on its surface facing the luggage compartment A to fit into the storage portion 11-1a. The fitting protrusions 16-1c are convex stripes extending in the vertical direction. The storage portion 11-1a has a recess 11-1c on the opposite side of the hole 11-1b from the luggage compartment A. The heat storage material P is placed in the recess 11-1c. When placed in the recess 11-1c, the heat storage material P is spaced apart from the side wall of the storage portion 11-1a. The two fitting protrusions 16-1c are positioned corresponding to the spaced-apart portions between the side wall of the storage portion 11-1a and the heat storage material P. The recess 11-1d formed by the side wall of the storage portion 11-1a and the heat storage material P fits into the fitting protrusions 16-1c. By fitting in this manner, the fitting portion 16-1B more firmly closes the storage portion 11-1a. This makes it possible to prevent outside air from flowing into the storage portion 11-1a (the storage space for the heat storage material P). In the configuration shown in FIG. 21, the recess that fits with the fitting protrusion 16-1c is formed by the side wall of the storage portion 11-1a and the heat storage material P. However, the fitting recess may be formed in any shape relative to the storage portion 11-1a as long as it has a structure that allows it to fit with the fitting protrusion 16-1c. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a recessed groove is formed as the fitting recess at a position in the storage portion 11-1a that abuts against the fitting protrusion 16-1c. In this configuration, the fitting protrusion 16-1c fits into the recessed groove independently of the heat storage material P (even when the heat storage material P is not housed in the storage portion 11-1a).

[0141] [Embodiment 6] Further, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0142] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container 10-1D according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 22, the constant temperature transportation container 10-1D according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the fitting portion 17-1 has a recessed groove 17-1c (mounting portion) therein for mounting the heat storage material P.

[0143] The fitting portion 17-1 has notches 17-1a and 17-1b, a recessed groove 17-1c, and two locking portions 17-1d.

[0144] The cutouts 17-1a and 17-1b are formed side by side in the vertical direction. The cutout 17-1a is a groove that is recessed from the outer surface of the fitting portion 17-1 toward the luggage compartment A and then recesses downward partway. The cutout 17-1b is a groove that is recessed from the outer surface of the fitting portion 17-1 toward the luggage compartment A and then recesses upward partway. By inserting both hands into the cutouts 17-1a and 17-1b, the user can easily grasp the fitting portion 17-1 with both hands.

[0145] The recessed groove 17-1c is an inwardly open recessed groove that extends in the vertical direction and is capable of accommodating three heat storage materials P, and is configured so that the heat storage materials P can slide in the vertical direction.

[0146] The two locking portions 17-1d are ridges that protrude from the inner ends of the side walls of the recessed groove 17-1c so as to narrow the width of the recessed groove 17-1c. Each of the two locking portions 17-1d is a ridge that extends in the vertical direction. When the heat storage material P is accommodated in the recessed groove 17-1c, the locking portions 17-1d come into contact with the inner surface of the heat storage material P. The locking portions 17-1d have the function of preventing the heat storage material P accommodated in the recessed groove 17-1c from moving toward the accommodation section 11-1a. The recessed groove 17-1c and the locking portions 17-1d allow the heat storage material P to be mounted on the fitting section 17-1 so as to be movable integrally. The two locking portions 17-1d also form an opening that communicates between the space within the recessed groove 17-1c and the space within the accommodation section 11-1a.

[0147] Furthermore, the packing method of the constant temperature transport package using the constant temperature transport container 10-1D according to this embodiment differs from that of the second embodiment in the procedure for storing the heat storage material P from the outside into the storage section 11-1a of the side wall panel 11-1. More specifically, the procedures (2) and (3) of the packing method of the constant temperature transport package using the constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to the second embodiment described above are different.

[0148] In the packing method for the constant temperature transport package using the constant temperature transport container 10-1D, when storing the heat storage material P from the outside in the storage section 11-1a of the side wall panel 11-1, the following steps (i) and (ii) are performed: (i) Three pieces of heat storage material P are inserted into the groove 17-1c of the fitting section 17-1 to load the heat storage material P into the fitting section 17-1; (ii) The fitting section 17-1 loaded with the heat storage material P is fitted into the storage section 11-1a of the side wall panel 11-1 of the constant temperature transport container 10-1D (or the storage section 12-1a of the top panel 12-1 if necessary) from the outside.

[0149] In the packing method for the constant temperature transportation package using the constant temperature transportation container 10-1D, the heat storage material P is fitted into the accommodation section 11-1a while being integrated with the fitting section 17-1. That is, instead of fitting the heat storage material P alone into the accommodation section 11-1a, the heat storage material P is pre-loaded into the fitting section 17-1 and then fitted into the accommodation section 11-1a. Therefore, compared to the case where the heat storage material P alone is fitted into the accommodation section 11-1a, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience that, when fitting the fitting section 17-1 into the accommodation section 11-1a, the heat storage material P tends to lean toward the fitting section 17-1, making it difficult to fit the fitting section 17-1 into the accommodation section 11-1a.

[0150] [Embodiment 7] Further, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0151] Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a constant temperature transportation container 10-1E according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 23, the constant temperature transportation container 10-1E according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the storage section 11-1a is a recess extending horizontally.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 23, three storage sections 11-1a are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. Each storage section 11-1a accommodates a plurality of heat storage materials P arranged side by side in the horizontal direction.

[0153] The fitting portion 18-1 is a member that closes the opening that opens to the outside in the storage portion 11-1a, and therefore has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped that is elongated in the horizontal direction.

[0154] The fitting portion 18-1 has a notch 18-1a. The notch 18-1a is provided on the outer surface of the fitting portion 18-1. The notch 18-1a functions as a handle that the user can hook their fingers onto when moving the fitting portion 18-1.

[0155] The constant temperature transportation container 10-1E according to this embodiment can also significantly reduce the time and effort required for packing the constant temperature transportation package.

[0156] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0157] 〔summary〕 The constant temperature transport container 10 according to the first aspect of the present invention is a constant temperature transport container 10 comprising an insulated container X and a heat storage material P, wherein the insulated container X has a rectangular box shape with a cargo compartment A formed therein, and the insulated container X has side portions (short side portions 11, 13, long side portions 12, 14), an upper surface portion 15, and a lower surface portion 16, and is configured to have storage portions 11a to 14a, 16a for storing the heat storage material P on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side portions and the lower surface portion 16 on the outside of the insulated container X. Furthermore, the constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to aspect 1 of the present invention is a constant temperature transport container 10-1 comprising an insulated container X-1 and a heat storage material P, wherein the insulated container X-1 has a rectangular box shape with a cargo compartment A formed inside, and the insulated container X-1 has side portions (side wall panels 11-1), an upper surface portion 15 (top panel 12-1), and a lower surface portion (bottom panel 13-1), and is configured to have a storage section 11-1a for storing the heat storage material P on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side portions and the lower surface portion on the outside of the insulated container X-1.

[0158] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to aspect 2 of the present invention is configured in that, in aspect 1, the insulated container X has mating recesses (ridges 10a, grooves 10b, ridges 10c) formed on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side surface, the upper surface 15, and the lower surface 16, so that the insulated container X can be connected to another insulated container X.

[0159] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to aspect 3 of the present invention is configured in such a way that, in aspect 2, the storage section 16a is positioned at the connection point B when the insulated container X1 is connected to another insulated container X2, and the other insulated container X2 becomes an insulating section that covers the heat storage material P stored in the storage section 15a.

[0160] The constant temperature transportation container 10 according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is configured in any one of the first to third aspects such that the storage sections 11a to 16a store a plurality of heat storage materials P1, P2 having different melting temperature ranges.

[0161] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to aspect 5 of the present invention is configured such that, in any of aspects 1 to 4, the storage section 11a has a recess 11b that fits into the shape of the cargo compartment A side of one heat storage material P or an assembly of multiple heat storage materials P1 and P2.

[0162] The constant temperature transport container 10 according to aspect 6 of the present invention is configured in accordance with aspect 5, to include a first fitting portion (storage material T, storage materials T1 to T7) that fits into the recess 11b so as to be flush with at least the outer surface of the insulated container X in which the storage portion 11a is provided, and is made of at least one member selected from the group consisting of the one heat storage material P, the plurality of heat storage materials P1 and P2, and the insulating material I1.

[0163] The constant temperature transportation container 10 according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is configured in any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a heat storage material (storage material T0) in the cargo compartment A inside the heat-insulating container X.

[0164] The constant temperature transport container 10-1 of aspect 8 of the present invention is configured such that, in aspect 1, the storage section 11-1a is formed on the side section (side wall panel 11-1) and is provided with a second fitting section (fitting section 14-1) that fits into and is fitted into the storage section 11-1a, and the second fitting section has a cutout section 14-1a formed therein.

[0165] The constant temperature transport container 10-1 of aspect 9 of the present invention is configured in such a way that in aspect 8, the insulated container X-1 is an assembled container having four side wall panels 11-1 as the side surface portions, a top panel 12-1 as the upper surface portion, and a bottom panel 13-1 as the lower surface portion.

[0166] A constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is configured in accordance with the ninth aspect, such that a plurality of the storage sections 11-1a are provided for each side wall panel 11-1.

[0167] The constant temperature transport container 10-1C according to aspect 11 of the present invention is configured such that, in any of aspects 8 to 10, the second fitting portion (fitting portion 16-1B) is provided with a fitting protrusion 16-1c for fitting into the storage portion 11-1a, and the storage portion 11-1a is provided with a fitting recess (recess 11-1d formed by the side wall of the storage portion 11-1a and the heat storage material P) for fitting into the fitting protrusion 16-1c.

[0168] A constant temperature transportation container 10-1D according to aspect 12 of the present invention is configured in any one of aspects 8 to 11 such that the second fitting portion (fitting portion 17-1) has a mounting portion (groove 17-1c) therein for mounting the heat storage material P.

[0169] The constant temperature transport container assembly 100 according to aspect 13 of the present invention comprises a constant temperature transport container 10 according to any one of aspects 1 to 7 and a pallet 20 on which the constant temperature transport container 10 is loaded, and is configured such that multiple constant temperature transport containers 10 are interconnected.

[0170] [Another configuration] The constant temperature transportation container 10 according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is configured in any one of the first to seventh aspects, further comprising the storage portion 15a on the top surface portion 15 outside the heat-insulating container X.

[0171] The constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to aspect 15 of the present invention is an assembled constant temperature transport container 10-1 capable of transporting temperature-maintained items at a constant temperature, and comprises four side wall panels 11-1, a top panel 12-1, and a bottom panel 13-1, at least one of the four side wall panels 11-1 having a storage section 11-1a on the outer wall surface for storing heat storage material P, and an inserting section 14-1 that fits into the storage section 11-1a, and the inserting section 14-1 has a cutout section 14-1a formed therein.

[0172] A constant temperature transport container 10-1 according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the same as any one of the eighth to twelfth aspects or the fifteenth aspect, in which the storage section 12-1a and the second fitting section are provided on the top panel 12-1.

[0173] A constant temperature transportation container 10-1 according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is configured in any one of aspects 8 to 12 or aspect 15 or 16, in which the notch portion 14-1a does not penetrate to the storage portion 11-1a. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 10, 10A~10M Constant temperature transport container 10a, 10c Convex strip (concave / convex mating part) 10b Concave groove (concave and convex fitting part) 11, 11A to 11G Short side part (side part) 11a Storage section 11b Recess 12 Long side part (side part) 12a Storage section 12b Recess 13, 13A, 13C, 13E, 13F Short side part (side part) 13a Storage section 13b Recess 14 Long side part (side part) 14a Storage section 14b Recess 15, 15A, 15C, 15D, 15E, 15H Top part 15a Storage section 16, 16B, 16C, 16D, 16G, 16H Bottom part 16a Storage section 20 palettes 100, 100A~100F Constant Temperature Transport Container Assembly A. Luggage compartment I1~I6 Insulation P, P0~P9 Heat storage material T1~T10 Storage material (first fitting part) X, X1, X2 insulated containers 10-1, 10'-1, 10-1A Constant Temperature Transport Container 10-1B, 10-1C, 10-1D Constant Temperature Transport Containers 11-1 Side wall panel 11-1a, 12-1a storage area 11-1b Hole 12-1 Top panel 13-1 Bottom panel 14-1, 15-1, 16-1A Fitting part (second fitting part) 16-1B, 17-1 Fitting part (second fitting part) 14-1a, 15-1a, 16-1a Notch 16-1b, 17-1a, 17-1b Notch 16-1c Mating protrusion 17-1c Concave groove (mounting part) X-1, X'-1 Insulated container

Claims

1. A constant temperature transport container comprising a heat insulating container and a heat storage material, The insulated container has a rectangular box shape with a luggage compartment formed therein, The insulated container has a side surface, an upper surface, and a lower surface, A constant temperature transport container comprising a storage section for storing the heat storage material on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side surface and the bottom surface outside the insulated container.

2. 2. The constant temperature transport container according to claim 1, wherein the insulated container has a mating recess and projection formed on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the side surface, the top surface, and the bottom surface so that the insulated container can be connected to another insulated container.

3. When the insulated container is connected to another insulated container, the storage section is disposed at the connection portion, The constant temperature transport container according to claim 2 , wherein the other insulated container is configured to serve as an insulated portion that covers the heat storage material stored in the storage portion.

4. The constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the storage section stores a plurality of heat storage materials having different melting temperature ranges.

5. The constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage section has a recess that fits into the shape of the luggage compartment side of one heat storage material or an aggregate of multiple heat storage materials.

6. the receiving portion is fitted into the recess so as to be flush with at least the outer surface of the insulated container provided with the receiving portion; The constant temperature transport container according to claim 5, further comprising a first fitting portion configured with at least one member selected from the group consisting of the one heat storage material, the plurality of heat storage materials, and a thermal insulating material.

7. The constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a heat storage material in a cargo compartment inside the insulated container.

8. The storage portion is formed on the side surface portion, a second fitting portion that is fitted into the accommodation portion; The constant temperature transport container according to claim 1 , wherein the second fitting portion has a notch formed therein.

9. 9. The constant temperature transport container according to claim 8, wherein the insulated container is an assembled container having four side wall panels as the side surfaces, a top panel as the upper surface, and a bottom panel as the lower surface.

10. The constant temperature transport container according to claim 9 , wherein a plurality of the storage sections are provided per one side wall panel.

11. The second fitting portion is provided with a fitting protrusion for fitting into the accommodation portion, The constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the storage section is provided with a fitting recess that fits with the fitting protrusion.

12. The constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the second fitting portion has a mounting portion for mounting the heat storage material therein.

13. A constant temperature transport container assembly comprising a constant temperature transport container according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and a pallet on which the constant temperature transport container is loaded, wherein a plurality of the constant temperature transport containers are connected together.

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