Device, method, and system for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items

Abstract

Device (100) for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items, comprising: - at least a first thermal sensor device (111), configured to detect the temperature of at least a first item (200), said first thermal sensor device (111) being arranged in at least a first predefined positional relationship with respect to said at least an item (200); - a data processing unit (104), operatively connected to said at least a first thermal sensor device (111), and configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (111), first electronic data (D1) indicating at least a first temperature (T1) of said at least a first item (200), wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to load: - second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said at least a first item (200) and / or of said support (108), and - preferably, third electronic data (D3) indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least a first item (200) must be confined, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), a quantity of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to or removed from said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] DEVICE, METHOD, AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND / OR ADJUSTING THE TEMPERATURE OF ITEMS

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic control devices for the temperature of items, especially for perishable items.

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a device, a method, and a system for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items.

[0006] Prior Art

[0007] Certain items, especially perishable ones, must be maintained within specific preferred temperature ranges to avoid damage to the items themselves.

[0008] In particular, with reference to fruits and vegetables, keeping them within predefined temperature ranges prevents premature ripening, spoilage, or the formation of mold and rot.

[0009] Particular interest lies in the keeping of meat — specifically intended for human consumption — within specific preferred temperature ranges for the same reasons outlined above.

[0010] Often, items, including perishable ones, are transported in containers (e.g., shipping containers) which — when appropriate conditioning systems are absent — may not maintain the predefined temperature ranges due to external environmental conditions.

[0011] In some cases, brief periods during which certain items are not kept within the predefined temperature ranges may lead to deterioration.

[0012] Summary

[0013] The Applicant is aware that to avoid the aforementioned risks, it is necessary to precisely monitor the temperature of items and to this end, the Applicant has conceived a device, a method, and a system enabling to accurately detect and, if necessary, adjust the temperature of the items.

[0014] Device

[0015] In accordance with the present disclosure, a device (100) for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items is described, comprising:

[0016] - at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ), configured to detect the temperature of at least a first item (200), said first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) being arranged in at least a first predefined positional relationship with respect to said at least an item (200);

[0017] - a data processing unit (104) operatively connected to said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), and configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), first electronic data (D1 ), indicating at least a first temperature (T1 ) of said at least a first item (200), wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to load:

[0018] - second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said at least an item (200) and / or said support (108), and

[0019] - preferably, third electronic data (D3), indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least an item (200) is to be confined, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or a target temperature range (Tt).

[0020] Alternatively, in accordance with the present disclosure, a device (100) for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items is described, comprising:

[0021] - at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ), configured to identify at least a first zone (120a) at or near to a support (108) for at least an item (200) and / or said item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least an item (200) when positioned in said at least a first zone (120a), said first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) being arranged in at least a first predefined positional relationship with respect to said at least an item (200);

[0022] - a data processing unit (104) operatively connected to said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), and configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), first electronic data (D1 ), indicating at least a first temperature (T1 ) of said at least an item (200) and / or said first zone (120a), wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to load:

[0023] - second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or thermal capacity (c) of said at least an item (200) and / or said support (108), and

[0024] - preferably, third electronic data (D3), indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least an item (200) is to be confined, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200), and / or said first zone (120a), is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or a target temperature range (Tt).

[0025] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is configured to identify at least a first zone (120a) at or near a support (108) for at least a first item (200) and / or said at least a first item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when located in said first zone (120a).

[0026] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is further configured to identify a second zone (120b) distinct from said first zone (120a), and lying at or near said support (108) and / or at least a first item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when located in at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b).

[0027] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is configured to identify a plurality of zones (120a - 120z) distinct from one another, and lying at or near said support (108) and / or said at least a first item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when located in at least a zone of said plurality of zones (120a - 120z).

[0028] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate at least a second temperature (T2) of said at least an item (200) and / or said second zone (120b).

[0029] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate a plurality of temperatures (T 1 - Tz) of said at least a first item (200), and / or each uniquely associated with a respective zone of said plurality of zones (120a - 120z).

[0030] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) is a thermal camera, preferably of a matrix type, and is configured to identify said plurality of zones (120a - 120z), each having substantially the same dimensions as the others.

[0031] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device comprises said support (108) for said at least a first item (200) and at least a first weight sensor (107) operatively coupled to said support (108) and configured to detect a weight of said at least a first item (200).

[0032] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least first weight sensor (107) is configured to transmit, in use, to said data processing unit (104), fourth electronic data (D4) indicating a weight of said at least a first item (200).

[0033] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or a target temperature range (Tt).

[0034] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (100) comprises at least a photographic device (120) positioned in at least a first predefined spatial relationship with respect to said at least a first item (200) and operatively connected to said data processing unit (104).

[0035] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said photographic device (120) is configured and specifically intended to take at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200), said image preferably being an image in the visible spectrum.

[0036] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said photographic device (120) is configured to transmit said at least an electronic image to said data processing unit (104).

[0037] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to execute, or to cause to be executed by a further data processing unit, an image recognition algorithm.

[0038] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said image recognition algorithm is designed to recognize said at least an item (200) as a specific item based on said electronic image and to select, preferably automatically, or to enable to select specific electronic data among said second electronic data (D2) based on said electronic image, said specific electronic data being associated with said specific item.

[0039] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), first electronic data (D1 ) indicating:

[0040] - a first temperature (T1 ) of a first item (200), and

[0041] - a second temperature (T2) of a second item (200).

[0042] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that at least one of said first item (200) and said second item (200) is brought from its respective first or second temperature (T 1 , T2) to a target temperature (Tt) or a target temperature range (Tt).

[0043] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said photographic device (120) is configured and specifically intended to take at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200) and of a second item (200).

[0044] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to execute, or to cause to be executed by a further data processing unit, an image recognition algorithm.

[0045] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said image recognition algorithm is designed to recognize said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items based on said electronic image.

[0046] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first item (200) is at said first temperature (T1 ), and the second item (200) is at a second temperature (T2). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt) includes a first target temperature (Tt1 ) associated with said first item (200) and a second target temperature (Tt2) associated with said second item (200).

[0047] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) or said second temperature (T2) to the lesser, or alternatively the greater, of said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2).

[0048] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically associate, as a result of the recognition of said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items:

[0049] - specific first electronic data from said second electronic data (D2), and in particular a specific first specific heat (cm) or thermal capacity to said first item (200),

[0050] - specific second electronic data from said second electronic data (D2), and in particular a specific second specific heat (cm) or thermal capacity, to said second item (200).

[0051] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that the item with the greater of said first specific heat or thermal capacity and said second specific heat or thermal capacity is brought from its respective first temperature (T1 ) or second temperature (T2) to said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

[0052] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said item (200) comprises a first part made of water and a second part different from water.

[0053] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second electronic data (D2) indicates a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said first part, and / or said item (200) is a perishable item, preferably an edible item.

[0054] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably a difference between said at least a first temperature (T1 ) and said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt), a shelf life or operational life of said at least an item (200). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (111 ) is configured and specifically intended to detect a temperature of an accessible surface of said at least an item (200) and / or to take a direct temperature measurement of said at least an item (200); said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) being optionally a thermal camera operating within the infrared wavelength range.

[0055] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is configured to detect at least said first temperature (T1 ), optionally said first temperature and / or said second temperature (T2), preferably said surface temperature of said at least an item (200), in a non-contact manner and / or from a remote position.

[0056] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit is configured to force a cyclical detection of the temperature of said at least an item (200) by means of said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ).

[0057] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said cyclical detection of temperature results in the transmission of a plurality of first electronic data (D1 ) collectively indicating said first temperature (T1 ) of said at least an item (200) and / or said first zone (120a), preferably of at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b) and / or at least a zone among said plurality of zones (120a - 120z), based on a temporal evolution.

[0058] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, and cyclically, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) such that said at least an item (200), and / or said first zone (120a), is brought to and / or maintained at said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

[0059] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said energy source (102) is a source configured to be powered, particularly directly powered, by a natural energy source.

[0060] System

[0061] In accordance with the present disclosure, a system for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of an item is also described, comprising:

[0062] - a device (100) in accordance with one or more of the previously described aspects;

[0063] - a container (101 ) designed to define said closed volume (V), said container (101 ) comprising at least an access area (105) that is sealable, and having a first closed configuration defining said closed volume (V) and an open configuration wherein said volume (V) is in communication with an external environment;

[0064] - an air conditioning system (103) operatively connected to an internal portion of said container (101 ) and configured to condition said closed volume (V), and wherein said data processing unit (104) is operatively connected to said air conditioning system (103) and, in use, transmits conditioning electronic data to said air conditioning system (103) indicative of said amount of thermal energy (300), controlling said air conditioning system (103) via said conditioning data so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or a target temperature range (Tt), optionally to the lower, or alternatively to the higher, of said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2).

[0065] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said air conditioning system (103) is configured and specifically intended to provide heating or cooling, and / or can be operatively switched to produce heating inside said closed volume (V) or cooling within said closed volume (V), thereby providing or removing said thermal energy (300).

[0066] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said support (108) is positioned in said internal portion of said container (101 ), preferably in a lower portion of said container (101 ).

[0067] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said device or said system comprises at least an energy source (102), operatively connected to said air conditioning system (103), and preferably also connected to said data processing unit (104).

[0068] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said energy source (102) comprises an electric solar panel, said energy source (102) being positioned on an accessible external portion of said container (101 ).

[0069] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said device (100) and / or said system comprises at least a battery, electrically connected to said energy source (102). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said device (100) and / or said system comprises a charge controller, operatively connected between said energy source (102) and said battery.

[0070] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said charge controller is configured to control the charging of said battery using electrical energy from said energy source (102) and electrically controlled by said charge controller.

[0071] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said container (101 ) preferably comprises a shipping container.

[0072] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said shipping container is a standardized shipping container, preferably an intermodal shipping container.

[0073] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said system implements a self-powered and / or transportable module.

[0074] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said system is energy-autonomous, preferably energy-autonomous from an electrical grid supply.

[0075] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is configured to cyclically identify said at least a first zone (120a).

[0076] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is configured to cyclically detect said temperature of said at least an item (200).

[0077] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said closed volume (V) contains a predefined gas.

[0078] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said predefined gas comprises air.

[0079] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said predefined gas is an inert gas.

[0080] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said third electronic data (D3) contain at least one of a specific heat and a thermal capacity of said predefined gas.

[0081] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said charge controller is configured to supply electrical energy to said data processing unit (104) and / or to said air conditioning system (103) using electrical energy:

[0082] - entirely drawn from said energy source (102), or

[0083] - entirely drawn from said battery, or

[0084] - partially drawn from said energy source (102) and partially drawn from said battery. Method

[0085] In accordance with the present disclosure, a method is described for detecting and / or adjusting a temperature of an item, comprising:

[0086] - placing at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) in at least a predefined positional relationship with respect to at least an item (200) and detecting the temperature of at least a first item (200);

[0087] - operatively connecting said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) with a data processing unit (104), and transmitting from said at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) to said data processing unit (104), first electronic data (D1 ), indicating at least a first temperature (T1) of said at least a first item (200); the method comprising uploading to said data processing unit (104):

[0088] - second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said at least an item (200) and / or of said support (108), and

[0089] - preferably, third electronic data (D3), indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least an item (200) must be confined, the method comprising electronically calculating, using said data processing unit (104), based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt). Alternatively, in accordance with the present disclosure, a method is described for detecting and / or adjusting a temperature of an item, comprising:

[0090] - placing at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) in at least a predefined positional relationship with respect to at least an item (200), and identifying, through said at least first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), at least a first zone (120a) at or near a support (108) for at least an item (200) and / or said item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least an item (200) when placed in said at least first zone (120a),

[0091] - operatively connecting said at least first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) with a data processing unit (104), and transmitting from said at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) to said data processing unit (104), first electronic data (D1 ), indicating at least a first temperature (T1) of said item (200) and / or of said at least a first zone (120a), the method comprising uploading to said data processing unit (104):

[0092] - second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said at least an item (200) and / or of said support (108), and

[0093] - preferably, third electronic data (D3), indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least an item (200) must be confined, the method comprising electronically calculating, using said data processing unit (104), based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200), and / or said at least a first zone (120a), is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt).

[0094] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), at least a first zone (120a) at or near a support (108) for at least an item (200) and / or said first item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when placed in said at least a first zone (120a).

[0095] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), at least a second zone (120b) different from said first zone (120a) and located at or near the support (108) and / or said at least a first item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when placed in at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b).

[0096] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), a plurality of zones (120a - 120z) different from one another and located at or near the support (108) and / or said at least a first item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when placed in at least a zone of said plurality of zones (120a - 120z). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate at least a second temperature (T2) of said at least a first item (200) and / or of said second zone (120b). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate a plurality of temperatures (T 1 - Tz) of said at least a first item (200) and / or each uniquely associated with a respective zone of said plurality of zones (120a - 120z).

[0097] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) is a thermal camera, preferably of matrix type, and is configured to identify said plurality of zones (120a - 120z), each having a substantially identical dimension to the others.

[0098] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises providing said support (108) for at least a first item (200), operatively coupling at least a first weight sensor (107) to said support (108), and detecting a weight of said at least a first item (200) using said at least a first weight sensor (107).

[0099] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises transmitting, from said at least a first weight sensor (107) to said data processing unit (104), fourth electronic data (D4) indicating a weight of the said at least a first item (200).

[0100] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically calculating, through said data processing unit (104), based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or within a target temperature range (Tt).

[0101] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises transmitting, from said first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) to said data processing unit (104), first electronic data (D1) indicating:

[0102] - a first temperature (T1 ) of a first item (200) and

[0103] - a second temperature (T2) of a second item (200).

[0104] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically calculating, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3) and / or said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that at least one among said first item (200) and said second item (200) is brought from its respective first or second temperature (T 1 , T2) to the target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises cyclically identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), at least a first zone (120a) at or near a support (108) for at least an item (200) and / or said item (200).

[0105] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises cyclically detecting the temperature of said at least an item (200) when placed in said at least a first zone (120a). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), at least a second zone (120b) different from said first zone (120a) and located at or near the support (108) and / or said item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least an item (200) when placed in at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b).

[0106] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises identifying, through said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), a plurality of zones (120a - 120z) different and located at or near the support (108) and / or said item (200), and detecting the temperature of said at least an item (200) when placed in at least a zone of said plurality of zones (120a

[0107] - 120z).

[0108] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate at least a second temperature (T2) of said at least an item (200) and / or of said second zone (120b). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate a plurality of temperatures (T1 - Tz) of said at least an item (200), each uniquely associated with a respective zone of said plurality of zones (120a - 120z).

[0109] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) is a thermal camera, preferably of matrix type, and is configured to identify said plurality of zones (120a

[0110] - 120z), each having a substantially identical dimension to the others.

[0111] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises providing at least a photographic device (120) positioned in at least a predefined spatial relationship with respect to said at least a first item (200) and operatively connected to said data processing unit (104).

[0112] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said method comprises taking at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200) using said photographic device (120), said image being preferably a visible spectrum image.

[0113] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said method comprises transmitting said at least an electronic image to said data processing unit (104).

[0114] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method includes performing an image recognition algorithm, through said data processing unit (104) and / or through an additional data processing unit called by said data processing unit (104), of said at least one first item (200) as a specific item based on said electronic image and preferably automatically select, or enable to select, specific electronic data from said second electronic data (D2) based on said electronic image, said specific electronic data being associated with said specific item. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises capturing at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200) and of a second item (200) using said photographic device (120).

[0115] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises executing, through the data processing unit (104) and / or having an additional data processing unit execute through said data processing unit (104), an image recognition algorithm.

[0116] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said image recognition algorithm is structured to recognize said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items based on said electronic image.

[0117] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first item (200) is at said first temperature (T1 ), and said second item (200) is at a second temperature (T2).

[0118] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt) comprises a first target temperature (Tt1 ) associated with said first item (200) and a second target temperature (Tt2) associated with said second item (200).

[0119] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically calculating, through said data processing unit (104), based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1) to the lesser or alternatively the greater among said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2).

[0120] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically associating, through said data processing unit (104), as a result of the recognition of said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items:

[0121] - first specific electronic data from said second electronic data (D2), particularly a first specific heat capacity (cm) or thermal capacity, to said first item (200);

[0122] - second specific electronic data from said second electronic data (D2), particularly a second specific heat capacity (cm) or thermal capacity, to said second item (200).

[0123] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically calculating, through said data processing unit (104) and based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that the item with the higher among said first or second specific heat capacity (cm) or thermal capacity is brought from its respective first temperature (T1 ) or second temperature (T2) to said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

[0124] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said item (200) comprises a first portion of water and a second portion different from water. According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second electronic data (D2) indicate a specific heat capacity (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said first portion.

[0125] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said item (200) is a perishable item, preferably an edible item.

[0126] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically calculating, by means of said data processing unit (104) and based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably a difference between said at least a first temperature (T1 ) and said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt), an operational lifetime or shelf life of said at least an item (200).

[0127] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises detecting, by means of said thermal sensor device (11 1 ), a temperature of an accessible surface of said at least an item (200) and / or performing a direct temperature measurement on said at least an item (200).

[0128] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said thermal sensor device (111 ) is optionally a thermal camera operating within the infrared wavelength range.

[0129] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises detecting, by means of said at least a thermal sensor device (11 1 ), at least said first temperature (T1), optionally said first temperature and / or said second temperature (T2), preferably said surface temperature of said at least an item (200), in a non-contact manner and / or from a remote position.

[0130] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises providing a container (101 ), configured to define said closed volume (V), said container (101 ) comprising at least an access zone (105) that can be closed, and having a first closed configuration defining said closed volume (V) and an open configuration wherein said closed volume (V) is in communication with an external environment.

[0131] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises providing an air conditioning system (103) operatively connected to an internal portion of said container (101 ) and conditioning said closed volume (V) by means of said air conditioning system (103).

[0132] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises transmitting, from said data processing unit (104) to said air conditioning system (103), conditioning electronic data indicating said amount of thermal energy (300) and controlling said air conditioning system (103) through said conditioning electronic data so that said at least an item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt), optionally to the lower or, alternatively, to the higher of said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2).

[0133] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a cyclic detection of the temperature of said at least an item (200) by means of said at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ), said cyclic detection of temperature being initiated by said data processing unit (104).

[0134] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said cyclic temperature detection results in the transmission of a plurality of first electronic data (D1 ) collectively indicating said first temperature (T1 ) of said at least an item (200) and / or of said first zone (120a), preferably of at least an among said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b), and / or of at least a zone among said plurality of zones (120a - 120z), based on a temporal evolution.

[0135] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electronically and cyclically calculating, through said data processing unit (104), based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and preferably said third electronic data (D3) and / or said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200) and / or said first zone (120a) is brought to and / or maintained at said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

[0136] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises arranging said support (108) in said internal portion of said container (101 ), preferably in a lower portion of said container (101 ).

[0137] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises operatively connecting at least an energy source (102) to said air conditioning system (103), and preferably also to said data processing unit (104).

[0138] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said energy source (102) comprises an electric solar panel, said energy source (102) being positioned at an accessible external portion of said container (101 ).

[0139] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said container (101 ) preferably comprises a shipping container.

[0140] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said system implements a self-sustaining and / or transportable module.

[0141] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises electrically connecting at least a battery to said energy source (102).

[0142] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises placing a charge controller in operative connection between said energy source (102) and said battery.

[0143] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said method comprises controlling the charging of said battery by means of said charge controller and through electrical energy coming from said energy source (102) and electrically controlled by said charge controller.

[0144] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises supplying electrical energy to said data processing unit (104) and / or to said air conditioning system (103) by means of electrical energy:

[0145] - entirely drawn from said energy source (102), or

[0146] - entirely drawn from said battery, or

[0147] - partially drawn from said energy source (102) and partially drawn from said battery. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises supplying, in particular directly, said energy source (102) through natural energy.

[0148] Figures

[0149] The following detailed description will refer to the attached figures, a brief description of which is provided here below.

[0150] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a basic embodiment of the device subject to the present disclosure.

[0151] Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of a system for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of at least an item, the system including a shipping container.

[0152] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the interaction between the device subject to the present disclosure and other elements.

[0153] Figure 4 depicts a schematic representation of a system subject to the present disclosure, including an advanced embodiment of the device disclosed herein.

[0154] Figure 5 depicts a schematic representation of how first, second, third, and fourth electronic data are processed by a data processing unit to determine the amount of thermal energy required for a closed volume to achieve a target temperature.

[0155] Figure 6 depicts a schematic representation of photographically taking a first zone containing an item using a simple thermal sensor device.

[0156] Figure 7 illustrates a schematic representation similar to Figure 4 but shows the thermal sensor device as a matrix-type thermal sensor device.

[0157] Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a photographic device capable of simultaneously detecting the presence of a first item and a second item.

[0158] Figure 9 illustrates a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of an item in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0159] Figure 10 depicts a second flow diagram of a further embodiment of a method for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of an item in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0160] Detailed description

[0161] Reference is made to Figures 1 , 2, and 3. The device 100 for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of an item 200, in its basic form, includes at least a first thermal sensor device 1 11 configured to detect the temperature of said at least an item 200.

[0162] The device 100 further includes a data processing unit 104, which is operatively — particularly electrically — connected to the first thermal sensor device 11 1.

[0163] This disclosure specifically describes embodiments where only a first thermal sensor device 1 11 is present. Depending on the size of the item 200, or the number or type of items 200 whose temperature must be detected, multiple such devices may be employed, thus including at least a first and a second thermal sensor device 1 11.

[0164] The data processing unit 104 is configured to receive in use first electronic data D1 from the at least a first thermal sensor device 1 11 , indicating a first temperature T 1 of the item 200. The connection, preferably wired, existing between the data processing unit 104 and the at least a first thermal sensor device 11 1 is identified by reference numeral 109.

[0165] Where multiple thermal detecting devices are used, the data processing unit 104 will receive in use the first electronic data indicating the temperature T1 of the item 200 from each thermal sensor device 1 11. Optionally, the data processing unit 104 can mediate the temperature data received from a first and a second thermal sensor device 1 11 if they differ, consider both temperature data as separate, or still select only the lower — or alternatively the higher — of said temperature data.

[0166] The data processing unit 104 may include a general-purpose processor specifically programmed to perform the functions described herein and / or may include one or more dedicated processors (ASIC), or programmable logic controllers (PLC), or FPGAs.

[0167] It is particularly noted that the thermal sensor device 1 11 is configured to identify a first zone 120a at or near a support 108 for said at least an item 200. The device may be equipped with a lens 1 11 L, which in an embodiment is preferably of a wide-angle type.

[0168] In its simplest embodiment, the support 108 is not part of the device 100. In a more complex embodiment, the support 108 is instead part of the device 100.

[0169] The first electronic data D1 also indicates a first temperature T1 of said first zone 120a, particularly because there exists an environment between the item 200 and the thermal sensor device 11 1 that separates them, and thus at least some of the data measured by the aforementioned device may be influenced by said environment.

[0170] The data processing unit 104 is configured to load second electronic data D2 indicating a specific heat cm[J / K kg] and / or a thermal capacity c [J / K] of said at least an item 200 and / or of said support 108. The second electronic data D2 are stored in a memory 104m operatively accessible by the data processing unit 104.

[0171] For example, if it is known that the item 200 to be contained within the closed volume V during use, such as a watermelon, is composed predominantly of water, the specific heat value cmwill be stored under the assumption, for simplicity, that the watermelon is made exclusively of water (cm= 4186), or, for better approximation, this specific heat value will be reduced to a slightly lower value (e.g., cm= 4100).

[0172] The memory 104m can be physically located near the data processing unit 104 or can be a memory remotely positioned with respect to the data processing unit 104 and for this reason, it can be connected via a wired and / or wireless connection of a known type, which is therefore not described further. Specifically, the memory 104m can be a cloud memory. In such a case, the data processing unit 104 will include a known type of electronic network access module.

[0173] Various values for the specific heat or thermal capacity of different types of items 200 can be stored within this memory 104m so that an operator, via a user interface, can select the specific heat cm[J / K kg] and / or thermal capacity c [J / K] value corresponding to the specific item contained in the volume within a container 101 .

[0174] The data processing unit 104 is also configured to load third electronic data D3 that indicate a closed volume wherein said at least an item 200 must be confined.

[0175] The data processing unit 104 is configured to electronically calculate, based on the first electronic data D1 , the second electronic data D2, and the third electronic data D3, an amount of thermal energy 300 to be supplied to the closed volume V.

[0176] The thermal energy 300 may be positive, thus representing heat to increase the temperature of the item 200, or negative, thus representing cooling to decrease the temperature of the item 200.

[0177] This amount of thermal energy 300 is useful for ensuring that said at least an item 200 and / or at least the first zone 120a is brought from the first temperature T1 to a target temperature Tt.

[0178] For example, if the item is a vegetable and is initially at a first temperature T 1 of 25°C, and for storage and transport purposes it must be maintained at 10°C until it reaches the supermarket or distribution point, the 10°C would represent the target temperature Tt.

[0179] From a practical standpoint, the target temperature Tt can be considered as a range of target temperatures Tt to avoid phenomena of on-off instability triggering in the air conditioning system described below. In a non-limiting embodiment, the target temperature range Tt may have an extension of 5°C, or 4°C, or 3°C.

[0180] Figure 2 illustrates a more complex system that, in addition to the device 100 described here, also includes a container 101 in the form of a shipping container equipped with doors 105 provided with respective closures 106.

[0181] Preferably, the shipping container is a standardized shipping container, and particularly it is an intermodal shipping container. A shipping container is designed and constructed for intermodal transport, i.e., for transport that can occur via truck, rail, or ship. In a particular and non-limiting embodiment, the shipping container is dimensioned according to ISO standards. This technical characteristic advantageously provides significant flexibility in handling the shipping container, as most transportation systems are specifically designed to handle, support, and transfer intermodal containers.

[0182] Preferably, though not limitedly, the shipping container is thermally insulated along its left, right, and front and rear lateral walls. In a preferred embodiment, the shipping container is also thermally insulated along its top wall and / or bottom wall, which is opposite the top.

[0183] The doors 105 define an access zone to the internal volume V of the shipping container. When the doors are closed (closed configuration), the internal volume V of the shipping container is effectively isolated from the external environment. When the doors are open (open configuration), the internal volume V of the shipping container is seamlessly connected to the external environment.

[0184] Figure 1 shows that the shipping container is equipped with an air conditioning system 103, such as an air conditioning system including a refrigeration compressor. The air conditioning system 103 is designed to provide thermal energy in the form of heat or cold inside the shipping container's volume V and is particularly configured to operate with the shipping container in a closed configuration.

[0185] In one embodiment, the air conditioning system 103 is configured and specifically intended to provide heating or cooling. In particular, it can be operatively switched, particularly by the data processing unit 104, to produce heating inside the closed volume V or cooling within the closed volume V, thereby providing or removing said thermal energy 300. The term "operatively switched" means that heating and cooling can be alternated without the need for technical modification of the air conditioning system 103. This technical characteristic makes the described device particularly flexible in its operational use, as it can be used to cool or heat items and is thus employable for items requiring consistently very low temperatures (e.g., below ambient temperature) as well as for items requiring consistently very high temperatures (e.g., above ambient temperature).

[0186] As will be further detailed in the following description, the air conditioning system 103 is intended to be controlled by the data processing unit 104, and for this reason, it is electrically connected to the latter. Control of the air conditioning system 103 can conveniently be carried out using a data processing unit in the form of a PLC or using a PLC portion of the data processing unit.

[0187] Details of the air conditioning system 103 are not provided since such an air conditioning system can conveniently be of a known type.

[0188] Figure 2 also illustrates that the shipping container is equipped with an energy source 102 in the form of photovoltaic panels. The energy source 102 is operatively connected, particularly electrically connected, to the air conditioning system 103.

[0189] The energy source 102 is also connected, particularly electrically connected, to the data processing unit 104. The connection, preferably of a wired type, is indicated by reference numeral 110. The connection between the energy source 102 and the data processing unit 104 allows for the exchange of control data between the data processing unit 104 and the energy source 102, as well as the electrical powering of the data processing unit 104 using the same energy source 102.

[0190] From the preceding paragraphs, it is clear that the energy source 102 can conveniently be a renewable energy source. Photovoltaic panels can be coupled with or replaced by wind energy sources and / or fluid turbines and in particular hydraulic turbines.

[0191] It is therefore clear that the energy source 102, in a non-limiting embodiment, is designed to be powered, particularly directly powered, by a natural energy source.

[0192] Thanks to the aforementioned technical features, the system described herein can be self- powered, meaning it does not require electrical power from a power grid and can thus be installed in remote environments where such a power grid is absent, without compromising its functionality allowing detecting and adjusting temperature as described above. Consequently, in one embodiment, the described system is energy-independent, particularly independent of network energy sources; it is capable of generating electrical energy for the introduction of heat or cooling into the closed volume V.

[0193] In a preferred embodiment, the shipping container is transportable by truck or is helicopter- transportable. Thanks to this technical feature, the shipping container can be easily transported, installed, and made operational even in remote environments (e.g., desert areas lacking power grid), ensuring the proper maintenance of the temperature of thermally sensitive items.

[0194] Where photovoltaic panels are present, as shown in Figure 1 , these photovoltaic panels will be arranged on the upper external portion, or at least on an accessible external portion, of the shipping container.

[0195] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the photovoltaic panels are electrically coupled with at least a rechargeable battery.

[0196] The rechargeable battery is configured to be at least partially charged with the electrical energy produced by the photovoltaic panels (or an alternative energy source 102).

[0197] A charge controller, operatively coupled to the at least a battery and the photovoltaic panels (or an alternative energy source 102), controls the supply of electrical energy to the air conditioning system 103, via power drawn from the photovoltaic panels, the at least a battery, or both (and with varying percentages of draw) from both the photovoltaic panels and simultaneously the at least a battery. The presence of the battery ensures continuity of energy supply to the data processing unit 104 and the air conditioning system 103 even in cases where the energy source 102 cannot be powered. For example, if the energy source is a photovoltaic panel, the presence of the battery allows for the electrical powering of the data processing unit and the air conditioning system 103 even during nighttime operations.

[0198] Ideally, the combination of the energy source 102 and the battery ideally allows for an energy availability factor close to 100%. During the design phase, it will be the responsibility of the design engineer to electrically size the battery capacity and the electrical energy (voltage, current) provided by the energy source 102 in accordance with:

[0199] - The average and maximum electrical consumption of the air conditioning system 103;

[0200] Environmental conditions that determine the powering of the energy source 102.

[0201] As clearly represented in Figure 2, the support 108 is positioned inside the shipping container and is specifically located in a lower position — preferably at the bottom — of the shipping container.

[0202] The support 108 is preferably rigid and is designed to support loads of significant weight. The support 108 may be continuous or discontinuous, such as a grid. Various materials (metal and / or wood, and / or plastic fibres) can be used to implement the support 108.

[0203] The applicant conceived the device 100 herein described in its basic embodiment as comprising only a single thermal sensor device 111 and a data processing unit 104, as this device 100 may be intended for application on pre-existing shipping containers, some of which may already be equipped with or at least coupled with air conditioning systems 103 and / or electrical power sources.

[0204] This device 100 acts as an additional element capable of optimizing the conditioning properties of the closed volume V of a pre-existing shipping container, for example, by reducing the conditioning costs of the said closed volume V where the existing air conditioning system does not operate based on a temperature directly detected on the item 200, or by allowing for greater precision in controlling the temperature assumed by the at least an item 200.

[0205] In Figure 3, it is possible to observe that the device 100, and particularly the data processing unit 104, is configured to interact and thus exchange control data with a driver 500 of the air conditioning system 103, with a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software controller 600 and with a power controller 700 operatively interfaced with the energy source 102.

[0206] Through the CRM software controller 600, the data processing unit 104 can transmit to remote electronic stations data regarding the safety of maintaining a predetermined temperature, or data concerning the deterioration or damage of the item 200, or data about the reduction or maintenance of a specified shelf life. Such data are related to the relationship between the first temperature T1 and the target temperature Tt. This technical feature enables rapid information regarding the storage and / or transport conditions of items. In particular, a remote user can be promptly informed about the evolution and / or maintenance of the temperature of the at least an item 200.

[0207] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the transmission of data from the data processing unit 104 to the CRM software controller 600 occurs at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes) or substantially in real-time.

[0208] Where the system permits, through the CRM software controller 600, the data processing unit 104 can transmit to said remote electronic stations data regarding the number of items present in the shipping container, identified, for example, by a camera or video camera.

[0209] In an embodiment, the thermal sensor device 1 11 is configured and specifically intended to detect the temperature of an accessible surface of the item 200 from at least a first predefined distance. Alternatively, or in combination, the thermal sensor device 1 11 is configured to, and specifically intended to, provide a direct measurement of the surface temperature of said item 200.

[0210] Preferably, the thermal sensor device 11 1 is a thermal camera operating in the infrared wavelength range. The thermal camera, or equivalent device, is thus configured to detect the temperature of items without requiring direct contact, and hence is configured to detect the temperature of items from a remote position relative to them.

[0211] In some practical cases, the area where the thermal sensor device 11 1 detects the temperature may feature significantly varying temperatures. The applicant has conceived the following embodiments of the thermal sensor device 11 1.

[0212] A first embodiment is configured to identify the maximum temperature in a temperaturereading area and provide such maximum temperature as T1 .

[0213] A second embodiment is configured to identify the minimum temperature in a temperaturereading area and provide such minimum temperature as T1 .

[0214] A third embodiment is configured to average the temperatures detected within the temperature-reading area and provide such averaged temperature as T1. For example, Figure 6 illustrates a simplified representation where an embodiment of the thermal sensor device 11 1 can recognize only one temperature, such as the averaged temperature, in a large zone 120a containing the item 200.

[0215] Preferably, the positional relationship existing between the thermal sensor device 1 11 and the item 200 is fixed, though this is not to be considered limiting. In an alternative embodiment, the positional relationship between the thermal sensor device 1 11 and the item 200 is variable; preferably, the thermal sensor device 11 1 may be able to move relative to the item 200.

[0216] Figure 7 depicts a further non-limiting embodiment wherein the thermal sensor device 1 11 acquires a matrix of image zones. A plurality of zones 120a, 120b, ... 120z is acquired by the thermal sensor device 1 11. Preferably, these zones do not overlap.

[0217] Although this feature is not limiting, it is preferable that all the zones 120a, 120b, ..., 120z have the same dimensions.

[0218] For each zone 120a, 120b, ..., 120z, the thermal sensor device 1 11 identifies a respective temperature T1 , T2, ..., Tz. The table in Figure 7 schematically illustrates the relationship between the set of temperatures T1 , T2, ..., Tz and the plurality of zones 120a, 120b, ..., 120z. The use of a wide-angle lens 11 1 L may be advantageous when the thermal sensor device 1 11 must be configured to take a plurality of zones 120a, 120b, ..., 120z distributed over a large area. In a non-limiting embodiment, the lens 1 11 L may be configured to compensate for perspective distortions caused by its wide angle.

[0219] The number of the plurality of temperature readings is clearly equal to the number of the plurality of zones.

[0220] By using a matrix-type thermal sensor device 11 1 , even large items can be accurately scanned and identified with multiple temperature values. This enables a more precise adjustment of the air conditioning system 103, especially in cases where the item 200 has significantly varying temperatures across its structure, as the air conditioning system 103 can be regulated based on control signals issued by the data processing unit 104 to ensure that every single part of the item 200 reaches the target temperature range Tt or, for example, remains below the target temperature Tt.

[0221] In a preferred embodiment, the detection of the first temperature T1 and the electronic calculation performed by the data processing unit 104 to determine the thermal energy 300 are carried out substantially in real time. This technical feature allows for a rapid adjustment of the temperature of the item 200 and is particularly useful in cases where the item 200 can be damaged even by brief periods of exposure to unsuitable temperatures.

[0222] A more complex embodiment of the device 100, subject of the present disclosure, is schematically represented in Figure 4.

[0223] The device 100 can include at least a weight sensor 107. Figure 4 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment where four weight sensors 107 are positioned between the support 108 and the bottom of the shipping container. The number of weight sensors is not limiting.

[0224] The weight sensor 107 is operatively, particularly electrically, coupled to the data processing unit 104 and in use, it allows for the identification of the weight of the item 200 placed on the support 108. When necessary, at least a weight sensor 107 may be coupled to a signal conditioning amplifier 107A (see, for example, Figure 3), whose task is to amplify the signal produced by the weight sensor to make it compatible with the electronic processing performed by the data processing unit 104.

[0225] In use, the weight sensor 107, which is of the electronic type, transmits fourth electronic data D4 indicating the weight of the item 200 to the data processing unit 104.

[0226] In the embodiment described herein, the data processing unit 104 electronically calculates the amount of thermal energy 300 to be provided to the closed volume V to ensure that the item 200 and / or the first zone 120a (where applicable, the plurality of zones 120a, 120b, ..., 120z) is brought from the first temperature T1 to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt.

[0227] This specific configuration of the device 100 is useful when the second electronic data D2 indicate the specific heat capacity cmof the item 200. Indeed, knowledge of the mass (weight) of the item 200 — made possible by the weight sensor 107 — allows for the calculation of the total thermal capacity c of the item 200 through a multiplication: c [J / K] = cm[J / K kg] * m [kg]

[0228] Specifically, the third electronic data D3 consider the specific heat capacity cmand / or the thermal capacity of the air contained in the closed volume V of the shipping container and are preferentially used to allow to account for the impact of the air volume in heating the herein described item 200. For dry air, cm= 1005 J / K kg, and for air at 100% RH, cm= 1030 J / K kg. Clearly, if the closed volume V of the shipping container is filled with a gas other than air, the specific heat value will be adjusted accordingly.

[0229] An example of a calculation performed by the data processing unit 104 is provided below. Suppose a single item 200 has cm= 2500 J / K kg. Suppose that the weight of the item 200 is 20 kg, the thermal capacity of the item 200 is c= 50 ■ 103J / K.

[0230] The thermal sensor device 11 1 detects a temperature T1 = 25°C. The target temperature T1 is 12°C.

[0231] Additionally, it is assumed that the closed volume V has a thermal capacity of 1250 J / K (approximately 1 m3of humid air), it being also at 25°C.

[0232] The amount of thermal energy 300 is that required to reduce the temperature by 13°C (or equivalently 13 K).

[0233] Therefore, this thermal energy is equal to 50 ■ 103■ 13 + 1250 ■ 13 = 666250 J.

[0234] From the above, it is clear that, in one embodiment, the closed volume V contains, and is specifically forced to contain, a predefined gas comprising air or an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen). In such cases, the third electronic data D3 include at least one of the specific heat capacity or thermal capacity of the predefined gas.

[0235] In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the thermal sensor device 11 1 can be configured and specifically intended to also detect the temperature of the inert gas contained within the closed volume V. Although this specific embodiment allows for a more accurate calculation of the thermal energy 300 required for the overall heating, as is clear from the previous calculation, the impact of the closed volume V that is not excessively larger than the item 200, especially in cases where the specific heat capacity of the item is significantly higher than that of the gas, is relatively minor and can therefore be considered negligible. It should be noted that this dual temperature reading can be present in both the embodiment of the thermal sensor device 1 11 that detects the temperature of a single zone and the embodiment of the thermal sensor device 11 1 that detects the temperatures of a plurality of zones.

[0236] Zones without items can be useful allowing to indirectly identify the temperature of the gas present in the closed volume V, as such zones and gas tend to equilibrate their temperature. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 4 also shows the presence of a photographic device 120. The photographic device 120 is configured and specifically intended to take at least one image (in the visible spectrum) of the item 200.

[0237] Preferably, the photographic device 120 is placed in a fixed positional relationship with the item 200. Alternatively, the photographic device 120 can be positioned in a mobile relationship with respect to the item 200, for example, being movable relative to the latter positional. Suitable mobile supports will be provided in this case within the shipping container.

[0238] In a non-limiting embodiment, the photographic device 120 is a camera. In a further embodiment, it is a video camera.

[0239] The photographic device 120 is provided herein to allow for the automated identification of the item 200, thereby relieving the operator of the need to manually select, through the user interface, the type of item 200 (or, if many, the types of items) contained in the shipping container.

[0240] The photographic device 120 is electronically controlled by the data processing unit 104 and is configured to transmit the captured electronic image to the data processing unit 104. After receiving the electronic image, the data processing unit 104, preferably automatically — or under operator command through the user interface — executes an image recognition algorithm to identify the at least an item 200 as a specific item (e.g., considering the shape and colour pattern of the image to belong to a watermelon). The data processing capacity for executing such recognition may be exclusive to the data processing unit 104 or shared with remote data processing units.

[0241] In the latter case, the data processing unit 104 establishes a data connection with one or more remote data processing units to execute an image recognition algorithm. In a non-limiting embodiment, the image recognition algorithm is an artificial intelligence algorithm, optionally employing a neural network.

[0242] Once the item 200 has been electronically recognized as a specific item based on the electronic image, specific electronic data of the aforementioned second electronic data D2 are selected.

[0243] These "specific electronic data" allow for selecting the appropriate specific heat capacity or thermal capacity based on what has been identified from the image.

[0244] In a first embodiment, the selection is manual. In this case, for example, the user interface will display to the operator the name of the item 200 electronically identified. The operator can electronically confirm, via the user interface, the correctness of the electronic identification made by the image recognition algorithm. Upon electronic confirmation, the data processing unit 104 selects from the memory 104m the specific data associated with the electronically identified specific item.

[0245] In an alternative embodiment, the selection is automatic. This automatic selection minimizes the operator intervention.

[0246] Without requiring confirmation from the operator, the data processing unit 104 selects from the memory 104m the specific electronic data of the second electronic data D2 so as to be able to operate with the correct specific heat and / or thermal capacity data.

[0247] In particular, knowledge of the closed volume V (litres, m3) of the shipping container allows for determining the thermal capacity of the air contained within the shipping container using an equation similar to the previous one. Figure 5 visually summarizes in a simple way a non-limiting example of an embodiment wherein the data processing unit receives the first, second, third, and fourth electronic data D1-D4 to calculate the thermal energy required to cool the at least an item 200 to bring it from its initial temperature to the target temperature Tt. In the example of Figure 5:

[0248] - The first electronic data D1 indicate a first temperature T1 of the item 200 equal to 30°C;

[0249] - The second electronic data D2 indicate a specific heat capacity of the item equal to 3750 J / kg K;

[0250] - The third electronic data D3 indicate a closed volume V equal to 3 m3;

[0251] - The fourth electronic data D4 indicate a weight of the item 200 equal to 4 kg;

[0252] - The target temperature to be reached is 5°C.

[0253] Within the closed volume V, cooling must be performed to reduce the item 200 temperature by 25°C.

[0254] The time required to bring the temperature of the at least an item 200 from the first temperature T 1 to the target temperature Tt, or within the range of target temperatures Tt: - increases as the difference between the temperature T 1 and the target temperature Tt increases, or the range of target temperatures Tt; increases as the volume of the item 200 and / or the closed volume V increases;

[0255] - increases as the specific heat capacity of the item increases;

[0256] - decreases as the heating or cooling power of the air conditioning system 103 increases.

[0257] A specific embodiment of the device described herein is capable of recognizing multiple items of different types on the support 108. This technical function facilitates a more accurate selection of the amount of thermal energy 300 to be introduced into the closed volume V, particularly because among the plurality of items of different types, there may be items that require — due to their high specific heat capacity — a significantly greater amount of thermal energy compared to other items to reach the same temperature.

[0258] In this embodiment, the photographic device is configured and specifically intended to take at least an electronic image of the at least a first item 200 and a second item 200. As schematically shown in Figure 8, the first and second items are different from one another (Item #1 , Item #2) and can be identified one from the other. In the non-limiting case of Figure 8, Item #1 has a specific heat capacity cmof 3800, and Item #2 has a specific heat capacity cmof 2750. The data processing unit 104 can be configured to produce the aforementioned data in a table (Table 350 in Figure 8).

[0259] The data processing unit 104 is configured to execute, or have executed by an additional data processing unit, an image recognition algorithm and this image recognition algorithm is structured to recognize said first item 200 and said second item 200 as specific and distinct items based on the electronic image.

[0260] The "and / or" mentioned above indicates that an embodiment has been conceived wherein the image recognition algorithm is partially managed by the data processing unit 104 and partially by the additional data processing unit.

[0261] Once the items have been correctly identified, it may occur that these items must be brought to different target temperatures. In this case, a first target temperature Tt1 is associated with the first item 200, and a second target temperature Tt2 is associated with the second item 200.

[0262] The data processing unit 104 is configured to electronically calculate, based on the first electronic data D1 , the second electronic data D2, preferably the third electronic data D3, and the fourth electronic data D4, an amount of thermal energy 300 to be supplied to the closed volume V so that at least one of the first item 200 and the second item 200 is brought from the said first temperature T1 or second temperature T2 to the lower, or higher (depending on the circumstances), of the first target temperature Tt1 and the second target temperature Tt2.

[0263] Alternatively, the first and the second items 200 (that is both) must be brought to the lower, or alternatively the higher, of the first target temperature Tt1 and the second target temperature Tt2.

[0264] An example is as follows: T1 (temperature of the first item) = 31 °C; T2 (temperature of the second item) = 28°C; Tt1 (target temperature of the first item) = 14°C; Tt2 (target temperature of the second item) = 1 1 °C. Both items must therefore be cooled and brought to the temperature Tt2, as the lower of (Tt 1 , Tt2) is Tt2.

[0265] For instance, if due to the combination of specific heat capacities associated with the first and second items, or if due to the combination of thermal capacities associated with the first and second items, one of said first and second items 200 ends up at a lower temperature than the lower of the first target temperature Tt1 (or range of target temperature Tt1 ) and the second target temperature Tt2 (or range of target temperature Tt2). This does not hinder the operation of the system and particularly the continued removal of thermal energy 300 from the closed volume V, as both items must be cooled to reach at least the said lower of the two target temperatures (in this example, the second target temperature Tt2).

[0266] If only one of the said first item 200 and the said second item 200 needs to reach the lower (or alternatively, the higher) of the said first target temperature Tt1 and the said second target temperature Tt2, it may occur that at least one of the said first item and second item 200, when one of the two has reached the temperature corresponding to the lower of the said first target temperature Tt1 and the said second target temperature Tt2, actually is at a temperature higher than its own target temperature Tt1 .

[0267] In another embodiment, the data processing unit 104 accounts for the greater specific heat capacity or thermal capacity of those associated with the first item 200 and the second item 200.

[0268] Regardless of whether the first and second items 200 need to be cooled or heated, the greater effort for temperature change will be applied to the item with the higher specific heat capacity (for equal mass) or with the greater thermal capacity.

[0269] The data processing unit 104 is configured to electronically calculate, based on the first electronic data D1 , second electronic data D2, preferably third electronic data D3, and preferably fourth electronic data D4, a quantity of thermal energy 300 to be provided to the closed volume V so that:

[0270] - the said first item 200 and the said second item 200 are both brought from their respective first and second temperatures T1 , T2 to said target temperature Tt or within said target temperature range Tt.

[0271] - The item, of the first item 200 and the second item 200, which has the greater thermal capacity or specific heat capacity, is brought from its respective first temperature T 1 or second temperature T2 to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt.

[0272] This specific embodiment too ensures that all items are brought to at least the target temperature. It is actually supposed that the item most challenging to heat or cool is also the one most at risk of deterioration or damage if not appropriately brought to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt. If the above-described method is not used there would be a chance that through the addition (or alternatively the removal) of thermal energy 300 to the closed volume V, the target temperature Tt or the target temperature range Tt might only be reached by the item that is easiest to heat or cool. By applying the above described criterion, this risk is eliminated.

[0273] A specific embodiment of the device and system described herein is configured to repeatedly measure the temperature of at least an item in a cyclic manner, so that the air conditioning system 103 can be progressively controlled to bring the temperature of at least an item 200 to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt in the most efficient manner (e.g., as quickly or as stably as possible).

[0274] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 104 is configured to enforce cyclic temperature detection of at least an item 200 using said at least a first thermal sensor device 1 11.

[0275] During operation, this cyclic temperature detection generates the transmission of multiple sets of first electronic data D1 , collectively indicating the first temperature T 1 of said at least an item 200 based on a time evolution.

[0276] The data processing unit 104 is configured to electronically calculate, repeatedly and cyclically, based on the first electronic data D1 , said second electronic data D2, and preferably said third electronic data D3 and optionally fourth electronic data D4, a quantity of thermal energy 300 to be supplied to the closed volume V so that at least an item 200 is brought to and / or maintained at the said target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt.

[0277] The flowchart in Figure 9 illustrates a non-limiting example of a method for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of the item 200.

[0278] A first phase (block 1000) is the identification phase of the object 200. This identification is carried out using the photographic device 120 previously described.

[0279] A second phase (block 1001 ) is the weight measurement phase of the object 200; the measurement is carried out using the weight sensor 107 previously described. It is assumed that the object 200 does not lose weight, and for this reason, it is typically unnecessary to repeat the weight measurement during the time interval required to bring the temperature of the object 200 from the first temperature T1 to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt.

[0280] The block diagram shows that the second phase of weight measurement of the object 200 occurs after the first phase of object identification. However, a temporal inversion of the two phases is also possible. In this case, the data processing unit 104 will first receive weight data from the weight sensor 107 and subsequently — preferably automatically — activate the photographic device 120 to identify the at least an object 200.

[0281] A third phase (block 1002) is the phase of loading from the memory 104m the specific heat or thermal capacity of the object 200. This phase — logically — follows the second phase mentioned above, as it is typically through the recognition of the object 200 enabled by the photographic device 120 that it is possible to determine the type of object and, therefore, its specific heat or thermal capacity.

[0282] A fourth phase (block 1003) is the temperature detection phase of the at least an object 200. This phase, although represented in the diagram of figure 9 as temporally following the first and second phases, can equally be positioned before (i.e., preceding) the first and second phases or carried out between the first and second phases, or again between the second and third phases.

[0283] A fifth phase (block 1004) is represented by the identification of the target temperature Tt or the target temperature range Tt.

[0284] A sixth phase (block 1005) is represented by the calculation of the energy required to bring the at least an object from the temperature T1 to the target temperature Tt or within the target temperature range Tt. Clearly, the sixth phase temporally follows the phases from the first to the fifth.

[0285] The flowchart in Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a method for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of a first item and a second item.

[0286] A first phase (blocks 2000’, 2000”) is the identification phase of a first item 200 and a second item 200. This identification occurs using the previously described photographic device 120. A second phase (Blocks 2001 ', 2001") is the loading phase from memory 104m of the specific heat capacity or thermal capacity of the first item 200 (block 2001 ') and the second item (block 2001"). Obviously depending on the type of identified item, the specific heat capacity or thermal capacity may differ between the first and second items. Logically, this phase follows the first phase mentioned above since recognition of the first and second items 200, enabled by the photographic device 120, typically allows determination of the type of item and, consequently, its specific heat capacity or thermal capacity.

[0287] A comparison of the flowchart in Figure 10 with the flowchart in Figure 9 reveals that it is possible to reverse the temporal order of the weight measurement of the item and the loading of specific heat capacity or thermal capacity from memory. Actually, in the flowchart of Figure 10, the third phase (blocks 2002', 2002"), which measures the weight of the first and second items 200, occurs after the identification of the specific heat capacity or thermal capacity.

[0288] Then follows a fourth phase (blocks 2003', 2003") wherein the temperature of the first item 200 (first temperature T1 ) and the second item 200 (second temperature T2) is measured. This phase is specifically enabled using a thermal sensor device 11 1 capable of distinguishing at least a first zone 120a, wherein the first item 200 is located, and a second zone 120b, wherein the second item 200 is located.

[0289] It is obvious that the fourth and third phases in the flowchart of Figure 10 can be reversed in temporal order.

[0290] A fifth phase (blocks 2004’, 2004”) is a phase of identifying a first target temperature Tt1 for the first item 200 and a second target temperature Tt2 for the second item 200.

[0291] In the specific embodiment of the method schematically illustrated in Figure 10, this method provides for a selection of the lowest value of the first target temperature Tt1 and the second target temperature Tt2. This phase clearly follows the fourth phase and is identified by block 2005 (sixth phase). The sixth phase may alternatively precede temporally the third phase and, if applicable, the fourth phase and / or the second phase and the first phase.

[0292] In the specific embodiment of the flowchart of Figure 10, the seventh phase (block 2006) comprises calculating a thermal energy 300 necessary to bring the first item and the second item, or at least one of the first item and the second item, to a temperature equal to the lower value between the first target temperature Tt 1 and the second target temperature Tt2. The invention is not limited to the embodiments represented in the figures. For this reason, the reference numerals of the claims are provided solely to increase intelligibility and are not limiting.

[0293] Finally, it is clear that additions, modifications, or variations that are obvious to a person skilled in the art may be applied to the subject of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of protection provided by the claims.

Claims

C l a i m s1. A device (100) for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of items, comprising:- at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) configured to detect the temperature of at least a first item (200), said first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) being arranged in at least a first predefined positional relationship with respect to said at least an item (200);- a data processing unit (104), operatively connected to said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) and configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), first electronic data (D1 ) indicating at least a first temperature (T 1 ) of said at least a first item (200), wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to load:- second electronic data (D2) indicating a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said at least a first item (200) and / or said support (108), and- preferably, third electronic data (D3) indicating a closed volume (V) wherein said at least a first item (200) is to be confined, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt).

2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1 ) is configured to identify at least a first zone (120a) corresponding to or near a support (108) for at least a first item (200) and / or said at least a first item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when in said first zone (120a), preferably wherein the at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ) is further configured to identify a second zone (120b) different from said first zone (120a) and located at or near said support (108) and / or said at least a first item (200), and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when positioned in at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b), optionally wherein said first thermal sensor device (111 ) is configured to identify a plurality of zones (120a-120z) distinct from one another and located at or near said support (108) and / or said at least a first item (200) and to detect the temperature of said at least a first item (200) when positioned in at least one zone of said plurality of zones (120a— 120z); and wherein said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate at least a second temperature (T2) of said at least an item (200) and / or said second zone (120b), preferably wherein said first electronic data (D1 ) indicate a plurality of temperatures (T1 -Tz) of said at least an item (200) and / or each uniquely associated with a respective zone of said plurality of zones (120a-120z); optionally wherein said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) is a thermal camera, preferably of the matrix type, and is configured to identify said plurality of zones (120a-120z), each having a substantially identical size.

3. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising said support (108) for said at least a first item (200) and at least a first weight sensor (107) operatively coupled to said support (108) and configured to detect a weight of said at least a first item (200); said at least a first weight sensor (107) being configured to transmit, in use, to said data processing unit (104), fourth electronic data (D4) indicating a weight of said at least a first item (200); and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt).

4. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising at least a photographic device (120) positioned in at least a first predefined spatial relationship with respect to said at least a first item (200) and operatively connected to said data processing unit (104); said photographic device (120) being configured and specifically intended to capture at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200), said image being preferably an image in the visible spectrum; said photographic device (120) being configured to transmit said at least an electronic image to said data processing unit (104); said data processing unit (104) being configured to execute, or to cause an additional data processing unit to execute, an image recognition algorithm, said image recognition algorithm being structured to recognize said at least an item (200) as a specific item based on said electronic image, and to select, preferably automatically, or to allow selecting, specific electronic data of said second electronic data (D2) based on said electronic image, said specific electronic data being associated with said specific item.

5. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to receive, in use, from said at least a first thermal sensor device (1 11 ), first electronic data (D1 ) indicating: a first temperature (T1 ) of a first item (200) anda second temperature (T2) of a second item (200); and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that at least one of said first item (200) and said second item (200) is brought from its respective first or second temperature (T1 , T2) to the target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt).

6. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims 1 -4, wherein said photographic device (120) is configured and specifically intended to capture at least an electronic image of said at least a first item (200) and of a second item (200), and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to execute, or to cause an additional data processing unit to execute, an image recognition algorithm, said image recognition algorithm being structured to recognize said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items based on said electronic image; wherein said first item (200) is at said first temperature (T1 ) and wherein said second item (200) is at a second temperature (T2), and wherein said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt) includes a first target temperature (Tt1 ) associated with said first item (200) and a second target temperature (Tt2) associated with said second item (200), and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) or said second temperature (T2) to the lower, or alternatively the higher, of said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2); wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically associate, as a result of the recognition of said first item (200) and said second item (200) as specific and distinct items:- first specific electronic data of said second electronic data (D2), and in particular a first specific heat (cm) or thermal capacity to said first item (200),- second specific electronic data of said second electronic data (D2), and in particular a second specific heat (cm) or thermal capacity to said second item (200), and is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), preferably said third electronic data (D3), and preferably said fourth electronic data (D4), an amount of thermal energy (300) to besupplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that the item having the greater of said first specific heat or thermal capacity and said second specific heat or thermal capacity is brought from its respective first temperature (T1 ) or second temperature (T2) to said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

7. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said item (200) includes a first portion of water and a second portion different from water, and wherein said second electronic data (D2) indicate a specific heat (cm) and / or a thermal capacity (c) of said first portion, and / or wherein said item (200) is a perishable item, preferably an edible item, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), and preferably a difference between said at least a first temperature (T1) and said target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt), an operational or shelf life of said at least an item (200); said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) being configured and specifically intended to detect a temperature of an accessible surface of said at least an item (200) and / or to perform a direct temperature measurement on said at least an item (200); said thermal sensor device (11 1 ) being optionally a thermal camera operating in the infrared wavelength range.

8. The device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said data processing unit is configured to force a cyclical detection of the temperature of said at least an item (200) by said at least a first thermal sensor device (11 1), said cyclical detection of the temperature causing a transmission of a plurality of first electronic data (D1 ) collectively indicating said first temperature (T1 ) of said at least an item (200) and / or of said first zone (120a), preferably of at least one of said first zone (120a) and said second zone (120b) and / or of at least one zone of said plurality of zones (120a-120z), as a function of a temporal evolution, and wherein said data processing unit (104) is configured to electronically calculate, and cyclically, based on said first electronic data (D1 ), said second electronic data (D2), and, preferably, said third electronic data (D3), an amount of thermal energy (300) to be supplied to, or removed from, said closed volume (V) so that said at least an item (200), and / or said first zone (120a), is brought to, and / or maintained at, said target temperature (Tt) or within said target temperature range (Tt).

9. A system for detecting and / or adjusting the temperature of an item, comprising:- a device (100) according to one or more of the preceding claims,- a container (101 ) configured to define said closed volume (V), said container (101 ) comprising at least a closable access area (105) and having a first closed configuration defining said closed volume (V) and an open configuration wherein said volume (V) communicates with an external environment;- an air conditioning system (103) operatively connected to an internal portion of said container (101 ) and configured to condition said closed volume (V), and wherein said data processing unit (104) is operatively connected to said air conditioning system (103) and transmits, in use, conditioning electronic data indicating said amount of thermal energy (300) to said air conditioning system (103), controlling said air conditioning system (103) by said conditioning data so that said at least a first item (200) is brought from said first temperature (T1 ) to a target temperature (Tt) or target temperature range (Tt), optionally to the lower, or alternatively the higher, of said first target temperature (Tt1 ) and said second target temperature (Tt2).

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein said support (108) is positioned in said internal portion of said container (101 ), preferably in a lower portion of said container (101 ), said system comprising at least an energy source (102), operatively connected to said air conditioning system (103), and preferably also connected to said data processing unit (104); preferably wherein said energy source (102) comprises a solar panel, said energy source (102) being positioned at an accessible external portion of said container (101 ), wherein said container (101 ) preferably comprises a shipping container, and wherein said system provides a self-powered and / or transportable module and / or wherein said system is energy autonomous, preferably energy autonomous from a mains electrical supply; said system comprising at least a battery, electrically connected to said energy source (102); said system further comprising a charge controller, operatively connected between said energy source (102) and said battery; said charge controller being configured to control the charging of said battery by electrical energy from said energy source (102) and electrically controlled by said charge controller; said energy source (102) being a source configured to be powered, in particular directly powered, by a natural energy source.

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