Insulating panel for vehicles suitable for the transport of materials, preferably for the transport of materials at a controlled temperature, process for the production of said panel and vehicle suitable for the transport of materials, preferably for the transport of materials at a controlled temperature equipped with said panel

Abstract

Insulating panel for vehicles suitable for the transport of materials, in particular suitable for the transport of materials at controlled temperatures, comprising: a structural shell (81) made from one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC); a thermally insulating filler (82), made from a material comprising polyurethane; a reinforcing insert (83), applied between said structural shell (81) and said filler (82).

Description

[0001] INSULATING PANEL FOR VEHICLES SUITABLE FOR THE TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS, PREFERABLY FOR THE TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS AT A CONTROLLED TEMPERATURE, PROCESS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF SAID PANEL AND VEHICLE SUITABLE FOR THE TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS, PREFERABLY FOR THE TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS AT A CONTROLLED TEMPERATURE EQUIPPED WITH SAID PANEL

[0002] The present invention relates to an insulating panel for vehicles suitable for the transport of materials in general, preferably for the transport of materials at a controlled temperature (e.g. food transport).

[0003] The present invention also relates to a process for producing insulating panels for vehicles suitable for transporting materials in general, preferably for transporting materials at a controlled temperature (e.g., food transport).

[0004] The present invention also relates to a vehicle suitable for the transport of materials in general, preferably for the transport of materials at a controlled temperature (e.g. food transport) equipped with said panel.

[0005] Insulating panels for vehicles suitable for food transport are usually made from a structural shell, made for example in one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC), glass fibre embedded in a polymeric resin.

[0006] In the structural shell, a foaming operation is performed, for example using liquid polyurethane, aimed at distributing the insulating material inside the panel.

[0007] Once the hardening phase of the insulating material is completed, the panel can be applied to the internal wall of a vehicle (e.g. a van) for the transport of food, i.e. a vehicle whose cargo compartment is thermally insulated from the outside and is kept at a controlled temperature via a thermostatic system.

[0008] The Applicant observes that the materials with which the insulating panels are made, while allowing the panels themselves to perform their thermal insulation function appropriately, do not provide structural characteristics such as to be able to support objects (e.g. shelves, belt slots, etc.) fixed to the panel itself via rivets or dowels.

[0009] In fact, if one were to try to use dowels or rivets with a known type of panel, the insulating material present inside the structural shell would not provide mechanical resistance such as to allow any stable constraint.

[0010] This prevents, for example, from holding still - or at least limiting the movement and oscillation of - packages, boxes, etc. placed inside the cargo compartment during transport.

[0011] In this context, the Applicant has set itself the aim of overcoming this problem, thus providing a technique that allows for the stable and reliable fixing of shelves, slots, etc. inside the cargo compartment of a vehicle suitable for food transport.

[0012] In accordance with a first aspect, the invention concerns an insulating panel for vehicles suitable for the transport of materials in general, preferably for the transport of materials at controlled temperatures, in particular for food transport (for example, perishable and non-perishable foods and foodstuffs).

[0013] Preferably, said panel comprises a structural shell.

[0014] Preferably, said structural shell is made of one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Preferably, said panel comprises a filler.

[0015] Preferably, said filler is a thermally insulating filler.

[0016] Preferably, said filler is made of a material comprising polyurethane.

[0017] Preferably, said panel comprises a reinforcing insert.

[0018] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is applied between said structural shell and said filler.

[0019] In accordance with a second aspect, the invention relates to a process for the production of insulating panels for vehicles suitable for the transport of materials in general, preferably for the transport of materials at controlled temperatures, in particular food transport (for example, perishable and non-perishable foods and foodstuffs).

[0020] Preferably, said process comprises making a structural shell.

[0021] Preferably, said structural shell is formed with one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).

[0022] Preferably, said process comprises associating a reinforcing insert with said structural shell.

[0023] Preferably, said process comprises preparing a filler.

[0024] Preferably, said filler is a thermally insulating filler.

[0025] Preferably, said filler is made of a material comprising polyurethane.

[0026] Preferably, said filler is arranged in said structural shell.

[0027] Preferably, said filler is arranged so that said reinforcing insert is interposed between said structural shell and said filler. In accordance with a third aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle suitable for transporting materials in general, preferably for transporting materials at controlled temperatures, in particular food transport (for example, perishable and non- perishable foods and foodstuffs).

[0028] Preferably, said vehicle comprises a chassis.

[0029] Preferably, said vehicle comprises movement means.

[0030] Preferably, said movement means are associated with said chassis.

[0031] Preferably, said vehicle comprises a cargo compartment.

[0032] Preferably, said cargo compartment is mounted on said chassis.

[0033] Preferably, said cargo compartment is configured to accommodate foodstuffs.

[0034] Preferably, said cargo compartment is delimited by one or more walls.

[0035] Preferably, said vehicle comprises one or more panels according to the first aspect mentioned above.

[0036] Preferably, each of said one or more panels is mounted on one or more respective walls.

[0037] In one or more of the aforementioned aspects, the invention may comprise one or more of the following preferred features.

[0038] Preferably, said structural shell has an abutment portion.

[0039] Preferably, said abutment portion is configured for fixing said reinforcing insert.

[0040] Preferably, said structural shell has a substantially concave shape.

[0041] Preferably, said substantially concave shape defines a concave area.

[0042] Preferably, said substantially concave shape defines a convex area.

[0043] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is positioned in said concave area. Preferably, said filler is positioned in said concave area.

[0044] Preferably, said abutment portion forms a recess in said structural shell.

[0045] Preferably, said recess is substantially counter-shaped to said reinforcing insert.

[0046] Preferably, said recess protrudes into said convex area.

[0047] Preferably, said reinforcing insert has a substantially plate-like shape.

[0048] Preferably, said reinforcing insert has a first face and a second face.

[0049] Preferably, said second face of the reinforcing insert is opposite to said first face of the reinforcing insert.

[0050] Preferably, the first face of the abutment insert faces said abutment portion.

[0051] Preferably, said second face of said abutment insert faces said concave area.

[0052] Preferably, said filler has a cavity.

[0053] Preferably, said cavity is formed at said abutment portion.

[0054] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is fixed at said cavity.

[0055] Preferably, said reinforcing insert has a planar extension that is significantly smaller than said structural shell.

[0056] Preferably, said filler has an internal face.

[0057] Preferably, the internal face of said filler is partly in contact with said reinforcing insert.

[0058] Preferably, the internal face of said filler is partly in contact with said structural shell.

[0059] Preferably, said structural shell has a first face.

[0060] Preferably, the first face of the structural shell faces said convex area.

[0061] Preferably, said structural shell has a second face.

[0062] Preferably, the second face of the structural shell faces said concave area.

[0063] Preferably, the internal face of the filler is partly in contact with the second face of the structural shell.

[0064] Preferably, the internal face of the filler is partly in contact with the second face of the reinforcing insert.

[0065] Preferably, said reinforcing insert has a planar development substantially parallel to the planar development of the second face of the structural shell.

[0066] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is held in position by said filler.

[0067] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is made of metal, wood and / or other material.

[0068] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises forming, in said structural shell, an abutment portion.

[0069] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is associated with said structural shell so as to be positioned in said concave area.

[0070] Preferably, said filler is arranged in said concave area.

[0071] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is associated with said structural shell so that the first face of said reinforcing insert faces said abutment portion.

[0072] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is associated with said structural shell so that the second face of said reinforcing insert faces said concave area.

[0073] Preferably, said filler is arranged so that an internal face of said filler is partly in contact with said reinforcing insert. Preferably, said filler is arranged so that an internal face of said filler is partly in contact with said structural shell. Preferably, said filler is arranged so that the internal face of the filler is partly in contact with the second face of the structural shell.

[0074] Preferably, said filler is arranged so that the internal face of the filler is partly in contact with the second face of the reinforcing insert.

[0075] Preferably, said reinforcing insert is associated with said structural shell so that said reinforcing insert has a planar development substantially parallel to the planar development of the second face of the structural shell.

[0076] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises thermoforming a sheet material.

[0077] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises providing a thermoforming station.

[0078] Preferably, said thermoforming station comprises a substantially horizontal wall.

[0079] Preferably, said substantially horizontal wall has an upper surface.

[0080] Preferably, said substantially horizontal wall has a lower surface.

[0081] Preferably, said wall has an opening.

[0082] Preferably, said opening is a through opening.

[0083] Preferably, said wall has a sealing element.

[0084] Preferably, said sealing element is positioned on said upper surface.

[0085] Preferably, said sealing element is positioned around said opening.

[0086] Preferably, said opening and said sealing element define an operating position for said sheet material.

[0087] Preferably, said material is a plastic material.

[0088] Preferably, said plastic material comprises one or more of: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and the like. Preferably, making said structural shell comprises positioning a sheet material in said operating position.

[0089] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises heating said sheet material.

[0090] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises bringing a mould to said operating position.

[0091] Preferably, said mould is a motorized mould.

[0092] Preferably, making said structural shell comprises thermoforming said sheet material.

[0093] Preferably, said thermoforming is performed under controlled pressure conditions.

[0094] Preferably, thermoforming under controlled pressure conditions allows at least one thermoformed panel to be obtained.

[0095] Preferably, said thermoformed panel constitutes said structural shell.

[0096] Preferably, preparing said filler comprises performing a foaming and a moulding of said thermoformed panel.

[0097] Preferably, said foaming and said moulding allow making of said insulating filler.

[0098] Preferably, said foaming and said moulding allow said reinforcing insert to be interposed between said thermoformed panel and said insulating filler.

[0099] Preferably, said vehicle comprises one or more fastening elements.

[0100] Preferably, said one or more fastening elements are coupled to said panel at said reinforcing insert.

[0101] Preferably, said vehicle comprises at least one of: a support element, an anchoring element, a thermal regulation device. Preferably, said at least one of a support element, an anchoring element, a thermal regulation device, is fixed to said panel by means of said one or more fastening elements.

[0102] Preferably, said one or more fastening elements pass through said structural shell and intercept said reinforcing element. Further features and advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description of examples of embodiments of the invention, provided below. The description will refer to the attached figures, which are also purely illustrative and therefore not limiting, wherein:

[0103] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a plant in accordance with the present invention;

[0104] Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0105] Figures 3a-3d show different operating configurations of the station of figure 2;

[0106] Figures 4a-4b show different configurations of another station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0107] Figure 5a shows a schematic plan view of a detail of a station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0108] Figure 5b shows a schematic side view of the detail of figure 5a;

[0109] Figure 5c shows a schematic plan view of the detail of figure 5a in an operating condition;

[0110] Figure 5d schematically shows a side view of the detail of figure 5b in an operating condition;

[0111] Figures 6a-6b schematically show operating conditions of a station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0112] Figure 7 schematically shows a vehicle on which panels, made using the plant of figure 1 , are used;

[0113] Figure 8a schematically shows a front view of an embodiment of a panel in accordance with the present invention; Figure 8b schematically shows a sectional view, along the X-X plane, of the panel of figure 8a;

[0114] Figure 8c schematically shows an enlarged partial view of figure 8b, in which the panel is in operating conditions; Figure 9 schematically shows an embodiment of a station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0115] Figure 10 schematically shows an exemplary detail of a station of the plant of figure 1 ;

[0116] Figures 11 a-11 b show a possible embodiment of some elements of the invention;

[0117] Figures 12a- 12b show a further possible embodiment of some elements of the invention.

[0118] With reference to the attached figures, 80 indicates an insulating panel in accordance with the present invention.

[0119] The panel 80 (figures 8a, 8b) comprises a structural shell 81 , made with one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and the like.

[0120] Preferably, the structural shell 81 is made through a thermoforming process, which will be described below.

[0121] The structural shell 81 has a substantially concave shape.

[0122] This substantially concave shape is defined by a generally planar area, and by a side wall, which extends in a substantially orthogonal direction from the perimeter of the generally planar area.

[0123] The substantially concave shape defines a concave area C1 and a convex area C2.

[0124] Panel 80 includes a thermally insulating filler 82.

[0125] The filler 82 is made of a material comprising polyurethane.

[0126] Preferably, the filler 82 is obtained via a foaming and moulding operation, which will be described below.

[0127] The filler 82 is made in the concave area C1 of the structural shell 81 .

[0128] The panel 80 includes a reinforcing insert 83.

[0129] The reinforcing insert 83 is positioned between the structural shell 81 and the filler 82.

[0130] The reinforcing insert 83 is positioned in the concave area C1 of the structural shell 81 .

[0131] In short, the reinforcing insert 83 is held in position by the filler 82.

[0132] In one embodiment, the structural shell 81 has an abutment portion 8T to which the reinforcing insert 83 is fixed. The abutment portion 8T has a substantially planar shape.

[0133] In one embodiment, the abutment portion 8T can form a recess 84, substantially counter-shaped to the profile of the reinforcing insert 83. This recess protrudes into the convex area C2.

[0134] In one embodiment, the abutment portion 81 ' can be associated with one or more ribs 85, which follow respective sides of the abutment portion 8T itself. For example, in figures 8a-8c, an upper rib and a lower rib are schematically represented, suitable for coupling with two corresponding sides of the reinforcing insert 83.

[0135] In one embodiment, the abutment portion 81' can present one or more protrusions 86, which can act as centering elements of the reinforcing insert 83 - which presents respective portions counter-shaped to such protrusions. Preferably, the reinforcing insert 83 is made of metallic material, for example aluminum.

[0136] Preferably, the reinforcing insert 83 has a plate-like conformation, for example with a rectangular profile in a plan view. Preferably, the reinforcing insert 83 has a first face 83a and a second face 83b; the second face 83b being opposite the first face 83a.

[0137] The two faces 83a, 83b of the reinforcing insert 83 may be the two surfaces with the largest area of the plate-like conformation.

[0138] The first face 83a faces the recess; in short, the first face 83a is the one that abuts against the bottom of the recess.

[0139] The portion of the recess facing the first face 83a of the reinforcing insert 83 is substantially parallel to the prevalent planar development of the structural shell 81 ; for example, in the schematic of figure 8b, the recess portion facing the first face 83a of the reinforcing insert 83 is substantially vertical.

[0140] The second face 83b of the reinforcing insert 83 instead faces the concave area C1 , and in particular is covered by the filler 82.

[0141] Advantageously, the structural shell 81 has a first face 81 a and a second face 81 b.

[0142] The second face 81 b of the structural shell 81 is opposite the first face 81a of the structural shell 81.

[0143] The first face 81 a of the structural shell 81 faces the convex area C2, and the second face 81 b of the structural shell faces the concave area CI ,

[0144] Therefore the first face 81 a faces the outside of the panel 80, towards an environment that may be the cargo compartment 630 of a vehicle 600.

[0145] As can be seen in the schematic of figures 8a-8c, the reinforcing insert 83 has a significantly smaller planar extension than the structural shell 81 , and in particular than the second face 81 b of the structural shell 81 itself.

[0146] Preferably, the filler 82 has an internal face 82a; this internal face 82a is partly in contact with the reinforcing insert 83 (in particular with the second face 83b of the latter) and partly in contact with the structural shell 81 (in particular with the second face 81 b of the latter).

[0147] More specifically, the filler 82 entirely covers the surface formed by the second face 83b of the reinforcing insert and the second face 81 a of the structural shell.

[0148] As schematized in figure 8c, the reinforcing insert 83 has a planar development substantially parallel to the planar development of the second face 81 b of the structural shell 81 .

[0149] Figures 11 a-11 b schematically show a possible embodiment of the panel 80, which can be advantageously used for lateral portions, substantially vertical, of a cargo compartment of a vehicle for the transport of materials in general, in particular materials at controlled temperatures, such as for example food transport. In greater detail, figure 11 a schematically shows a perspective view, sectioned according to a plane substantially orthogonal to the prevalent planar development of the structural shell 81 , and figure 11 b shows the sectional view thus obtained. The same elements already described with reference to figures 8a-8c can be noted. In particular, the filler 82 can be observed in contact with the second face 81 b of the structural shell 81 and with the reinforcing insert 83. In this case, at the abutment portion 8T of the structural shell 81 , the filler 82 has a cavity, and the reinforcing insert 83 is fixed at this cavity. The reinforcing insert 83 can be initially glued to the second face 81 b of the structural shell 81 , at the abutment portion 8T, and subsequently (after the foaming phase which will be better described later) is held in position by the filler 82. At this cavity, on the opposite side to the reinforcing insert 83, the object 88 is positioned. The latter can be, for example, a rack, to which the load located inside the vehicle cargo compartment can be fixed. The object 88 is fixed to the reinforcing insert 83, passing through the structural shell 81, by means of suitable fastening means 87 (e.g. screws or dowels). The cavity may be delimited by a pair of expansions 84”, formed in the structural shell 81 on opposite sides with respect to the object 88. For example, the two expansions 84” may be positioned one at a higher level (therefore above), and the other at a lower level (therefore below) with respect to the object 88. The portion of the structural shell 81 that is located between the two expansions 84”, i.e. the abutment portion 81', constitutes a depression in the filler 82.

[0150] Figures 12a- 12b schematically show a possible embodiment of the panel 80, which may be advantageously used for the roof (substantially horizontal), of a vehicle cargo compartment for the transport of materials in general, in particular materials at controlled temperatures, such as for example food transport. In greater detail, figure 12a schematically shows a perspective view, sectioned according to a plane substantially orthogonal to the prevalent planar development of the structural shell 81 , and figure 12b shows the sectional view thus obtained. Also in this case, most of the elements already described in figures 8a-8c and 11 a-11 b can be observed: the structural shell 81, the filler 82, the reinforcing insert 83, the fastening means 87 and the object 88. In figures 12a- 12b, the reinforcing insert 84 is accommodated in a recess 84, formed by the structural shell 81 , at the abutment portion 8T, in a manner similar to that already shown in figure 8c (i.e. with a concavity that protrudes into the convex area C2); preferably, in this case the ribs 85 are not present.

[0151] The object 88 can be a hook, shaped like a C, which can be used to support / hang loads present in the vehicle cargo compartment.

[0152] Figure 1 schematically shows a plant that can be used to produce panel 80.

[0153] The plant 1 (Figure 1) includes a thermoforming station 100.

[0154] The thermoforming station 100, as will be clearer later, has the task of giving the panels the desired shape.

[0155] The thermoforming station 100 (Figures 1 , 4a-4b, 5a-5d, 6a-6b) includes an automated loading device 110, configured to pick up a sheet material 2 from a loading position P1 and position such material 2 in an operating position P2.

[0156] In greater detail, a plurality of stacked sheets are initially positioned in the loading position P1. This operation can be carried out manually or in an automated manner. The automated loading device 110, made for example as a set of automated motorized suction cups, takes care of picking up and positioning, one at a time, the sheets in the operating position P2, so that they can be subjected to the thermoforming operation.

[0157] The material of the sheet 2 is a plastic material comprising one or more of: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and the like.

[0158] The thermoforming station 100 comprises a substantially horizontal wall 101 (figures 5a-5d, 6a-6b).

[0159] The wall 101 has a through opening 102. In short, the wall 101 is designed as a frame, in the internal part of which there is the opening 102.

[0160] The wall 101 has an upper surface 101 a and a lower surface 101 b.

[0161] A sealing element 103 is arranged on the upper surface 101 a, around the opening 102.

[0162] The sealing element 103 can be designed as a gasket, substantially continuous around the perimeter of the opening 102. The opening 102 has smaller dimensions than the sheet material 2. In other words, the opening 102 and the sheet material 2 have reciprocal shapes and dimensions such that, when the material 2 is placed on the upper surface 101 a of the wall 101 , it completely closes the opening 102.

[0163] The opening 102 and the sealing element 103 define the operating position P2 for the sheet material 2.

[0164] In particular, the material 2 is in the operating position P2 when it rests on the upper surface 101 a, and in particular on the sealing element 103, so as to completely cover the opening 102. Thanks to the adhesion between the material 2 and the sealing element 103 (preferably obtained by means of suitable clamps, which tighten the material 2 on the wall 101), the opening 102 is substantially sealed.

[0165] Therefore, the material 2 in the operating position P2 creates a sealed separation between a region of space R1 above the material 2 (therefore facing the upper surface 101 a of the wall 101) and a region of space R2 below the material 2 (therefore facing the lower surface 101b of the wall 101).

[0166] Preferably, the space region R2 below the material 2 is delimited by a structure 104 with a sealed closure, associated with the wall 101 , schematically represented in figures 6a-6b. In one embodiment, the motorized mould 130 (which will be described later) is located inside this structure 104.

[0167] The thermoforming station 100 also comprises a heating member 120, made for example as a pair of heating walls 121, 122.

[0168] For example, a heating wall 121 is arranged at a higher level than the wall 101 (therefore with respect to the sheet material 2 in the operating position P2), and a heating wall 122 is arranged at a lower level than the wall 101 (therefore with respect to the sheet material 2 in the operating position P2).

[0169] Each heating wall 121, 122 can be driven between a distal position PD and a proximal position PP with respect to the operating position P2. In practice, each heating wall 121, 122, by means of respective movement members, is brought to the operating position P2 when a sheet must be heated, up to its softening temperature, for thermoforming. For example, the heating walls 121 , 122 are arranged horizontally, substantially parallel to the ground, and are moved horizontally, to be moved between the distal position PD and the proximal position PP.

[0170] Figure 4a shows schematically, according to a simplified lateral view, the heating walls 121, 122 in the proximal position PP, when the sheet material 2 rests on the wall 101 , in the operating position P2;

[0171] Figure 4b shows schematically, according to a simplified lateral view, the heating walls 121 , 122 in the distal position PD, when there is no sheet material in the operating position P2.

[0172] Preferably, the lower heating wall 122 (together with the respective movement members) is contained within the structure 104; in particular, when it is in the proximal position PP, the lower heating wall 122 is interposed between the motorized mould 130 (which in this case is not operational, and is in the rest position schematically shown in Figure 6a) and the horizontal wall 101 - that is, between the motorized mould 130 and the sheet material 2. When the lower heating wall 122 is in the distal position PD, it does not interfere with the vertical movement of the motorized mould 130, so that the latter can reach the operating position schematically shown in Figure 6b.

[0173] In one embodiment, the heating walls 121, 122 are composed of quartz resistors, mounted inside reflective parabolas to increase the degree of radiation and to limit heat dispersion.

[0174] Preferably, the heating walls 121 , 122 are equipped with an infrared pyrometer, capable of reading the temperature of the sheet so as to allow the processing cycle to proceed once the set temperature has been reached.

[0175] The Applicant notes that the pyrometer allows to save time during the machine start-up and to have the sheets always formed at the same temperature.

[0176] In one embodiment, the heating member 120 has distinct areas that can be heated selectively. More specifically, it is possible to adjust the power of each individual resistor or of individual groups of resistors that are part of the heating walls 121 , 122. For example, the power of each individual resistor of the upper heating wall 121 can be adjusted, while the adjustment of the resistors of the lower heating wall 122 can be performed in pairs.

[0177] Advantageously, the use of an energy monitoring technique is envisaged, which allows to reduce the consumption of electrical energy when the heating walls are in the distal position PD.

[0178] The heating time can be between 1 min and 20 min, for example between 3 min and 5 min.

[0179] Once the thermoforming temperature has been reached (for example between 120° C and 230 °C), the heating member 120, and in particular the heating walls 121 , 122, is returned to the distal position PD.

[0180] The thermoforming station 100 comprises a first pressure system 140, configured to operate on the operating position P2 so that at least part of the thermoforming occurs under controlled pressure conditions.

[0181] Preferably, the first pressure system 140 is configured to operate after the heating member 120 has softened the sheet material 2, in particular after the heating member 120 itself has returned to the distal position PD.

[0182] In greater detail, the first pressure system 140 is configured to generate, in a first phase, a higher pressure in the space region R2 below the material than in the space region R1 above the material 2. In particular, the first pressure system 140 is configured to blow pressurized air (with a temperature of approximately 50-80 °C) into the region R2, below the material 2. Due to the seal between the material 2 and the sealing element 103, this flow of air does not pass into the upper region R1 and tends to swell the material 2.

[0183] This prevents the softened sheet 2 material from yielding under its own weight before the mould 130 arrives and in addition a sliding of the material in the lateral areas is caused, ultimately obtaining panels of more uniform thickness; as will be clearer later, depending on the number of shapes present on the mould, a corresponding number of bulges will be generated from which respective panels will derive.

[0184] Note that the first pressure system 140 operates, preferably, only in the lower region R2, while the upper region R1 remains at ambient pressure.

[0185] As mentioned above, the thermoforming station 100 comprises a motorized mould 130 which, at this point in the process, is brought to the operating position P2 in order to thermoform the sheet material 2.

[0186] More specifically, the motorized mould 130 is configured to move, in a second phase, into contact and sealed against the lower surface 101b of the wall 101 , facing the opening 102. The second phase is preferably subsequent to the first phase. The motorized mould 130, in addition to respective movement members to be able to move to the positions envisaged by the process, is equipped with one or more shapes, which define the profile to be given to the material 2 in the thermoforming phase.

[0187] In one embodiment, the motorized mould 130 can be equipped with a single shape; in this case, the sheet of material 2 located in the operating position P2 will be used to produce a single panel.

[0188] In one embodiment, the motorized mould 130 can be equipped with two or more shapes; in this case, the sheet of material 2 located in the operating position P2 will be used to produce two or more panels.

[0189] In the case of two or more shapes present on the motorized mould 130, it is envisaged that the thermoforming station 100 includes one or more separation bars. These one or more separation bars are associated above the sheet material 2 so that, under the action of the first pressure system 140, a number of bulges is formed equal to the number of shapes present on the motorized mould 130 - therefore equal to the number of panels that must be produced with the sheet of material 2 present in the operating position P2. The Applicant observes that, within these bulges, the material flows into lateral areas. Advantageously, one of the shapes present (or the shape present) on the motorized mould 130 is shaped so as to create, on the thermoformed panel that will result from it, the abutment portion 8T for the reinforcing insert 83. The shape of the motorized mould 130 is counter-shaped to the profile of the abutment portion to be obtained.

[0190] Preferably, around the perimeter of the area of the motorized mould 130 that carries the shape(s) to be attributed to the material 2, a sealing element, such as a gasket, is arranged.

[0191] The area that carries the shape(s) has smaller dimensions than the opening 102, while the perimeter described by the sealing element of the motorized mould is larger than the opening 102; in this way, when the motorized mould 130, in the second phase, is brought into contact with the lower surface 101 b of the wall 101 , the shapes pass through the opening 102 so as to be in position to interact with the material 2, while the sealing element of the motorized mould 130 abuts against the lower surface 101 b of the wall 101 thus creating a sealed support.

[0192] In the second phase, the first pressure system 140 is deactivated.

[0193] Advantageously, the thermoforming station 100 comprises a second pressure system 141 , associated with the motorized mould 130.

[0194] The second pressure system 141 is configured to operate in the second phase, i.e. when the motorized mould 130 is in contact with the lower surface 101 b of the wall 101.

[0195] The second pressure system 141 is configured to create, in an internal space area delimited by the material 2 and the motorized mould 130, a lower pressure than in a space area external to said internal space area.

[0196] In practice, the sheet material 2 (sealed against the sealing element 103 present on the upper surface 101 a of the wall 101) and the motorized mould 130 (sealed against the lower surface 101 b of the wall 101) form an internal space area, delimited above by the bulge (or bulges) of the material 2 and below by the motorized mould 130. The shapes present on the motorized mould 130 are located within this internal space area.

[0197] The external area is substantially that which is located above the swollen material 2, and is substantially at ambient pressure.

[0198] Each of the shapes present on the motorized mould 130 is equipped with a plurality of through holes, arranged in an appropriate manner, connected to the second pressure system 141.

[0199] The second system 141, through such through holes, creates a depression in the aforementioned internal space area, so that the previously softened and swollen sheet material 2 adheres to the surface of the shapes.

[0200] The material 2 then cools off and hardens. To facilitate this process (lasting, for example, 1 minute), a jet of air can also be used.

[0201] A third phase is then carried out, in which the material 2 is removed from the motorized mould 130.

[0202] For this purpose, it is envisaged that the second pressure system 141 generates a flow of pressurized air directed from the motorized mould 130, and in particular from the shapes present on the same, towards the material 2, through the aforementioned through holes. In this way, the detachment of the thermoformed material 2 from the motorized mould 130 is facilitated.

[0203] Advantageously, the thermoforming station 100 is slaved to a control unit (not illustrated) configured to: receive input data indicative of panels to be thermoformed; select, based on such input data, a set of parameters associated with the panels to be thermoformed; control the thermoforming station 100 based on the selected set of parameters.

[0204] In light of the above, it can be noted that the thermoforming station 100 is configured to output thermoformed sheets 3, from which a set of thermoformed panels 4 are then obtained.

[0205] With reference to figure 1 , a first non-thermoformed sheet 2 is inserted into the thermoforming station 100 which, by thermoforming the sheet 2, provides a thermoformed sheet 3.

[0206] Preferably, the thermoformed sheet 3 is trimmed in a trimming station 200 and tipped and cleaned in a tipping and cleaning station 300.

[0207] The trimming operation can preferably be performed by a five-axis CNC machine.

[0208] In one embodiment, the plane of such a CNC machine is formed by a grid 201 ; for example, the grid 201 comprises a plurality of tubular elements 201 , preferably made of steel (figure 10).

[0209] Ideally, the scrap resulting from the trimming operation should be cut into portions small enough to fall into the empty spaces 203 of the grid 201 , so as not to interfere with subsequent operations and to be able to be removed.

[0210] However, the scrap is sometimes of significant size and, in order to be reduced to sufficiently small pieces, it would require a lapse of time which is incompatible with the rest of the process, and in particular with the time necessary for the thermoforming operation performed with the thermoforming station 100.

[0211] Therefore, it is advantageously envisaged that, between the thermoforming station 100 and the trimming station 200, a removal device 230 (diagrammed in figure 1), such as for example a sliding belt, is installed which has the task of transporting the entire scrap out of the production line. In other words, once the trimming operation is completed, the scrap is moved onto the removal device 230; the latter transports the scrap itself until it falls into suitable collection containers 240.

[0212] The thermoformed sheet 3 is a single sheet, through which different panels can be obtained. The thermoformed sheet 3 having, for example, three panel shapes, is directed into the trimming station 200 and is transformed into three panels 41 , 42 and 43.

[0213] The Applicant notes that, in the following, reference will be made to the formation of three panels starting from a thermoformed sheet; however, as mentioned, from each single sheet it is also possible to obtain a different number of panels. What is described here with regard to the formation of three panels applies, in a similar manner, to the formation of a different number of panels.

[0214] One of the thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43 constitutes the structural shell 81 of the aforementioned insulating panel 80. The set of panels 41 , 42 and 43 forms a package or assembly of panels 4 which is directed towards the tipping and cleaning station 300 where the panels are tipped and cleaned.

[0215] Subsequently, the package of, for example, three panels 41 , 42 and 43 is directed to the storage bays 400 in stock.

[0216] At this point a new sheet (not shown in Figure 1) that is not thermoformed, having the same characteristics as sheet 2, is fed into thermoforming station 100 and following all the operations described above comes to give a second package or assembly of panels 7, formed of, for example of panels 71 , 72, and 73, which is directed into the storage bays 400 in stock. In figure 1 the assembly of thermoformed panels 4 includes at least a first thermoformed panel 41 , a second thermoformed panel 42, and also a third thermoformed panel 43. It is reiterated that the number of panels that make up the assembly is established according to the dimensions of the panels themselves, but in the present context reference is made to assemblies composed, for example, of three panels.

[0217] Preferably, as mentioned, downstream of the thermoforming station 100, a trimming station 200 is provided.

[0218] The trimming station 200 comprises an automated cutting member 210, to separate the thermoformed panels 41, 42 and 43 from each other and / or trim the edges of said thermoformed panels 41, 42 and 43.

[0219] It should be noted that each thermoformed sheet may coincide with a thermoformed panel, or comprise a multiplicity of thermoformed panels. In the first case, the trimming station 200 will have the task of trimming the edges; in the second case, the trimming station 200 will also separate the various panels that are part of each thermoformed sheet.

[0220] In one embodiment, the trimming station 200 may comprise a chip suction device 220.

[0221] For example, a 5-axis CNC milling machine may be used for trimming.

[0222] The waste material is collected automatically, for example by a motorized belt placed under the area where the cutting / trimming operation is carried out, and recycled.

[0223] In one embodiment, downstream of the trimming station 200, and more generally downstream of the thermoforming station 100, as mentioned, a tipping and cleaning station 300 is provided.

[0224] From a practical point of view, at the end of the trimming performed in the trimming station 200, the thermoformed panels 41 , 42 and 43 can, for example, be turned with the concave surface downwards (in the case of a positive mould in a thermoforming machine) and the shavings from the processing may still be present. It is therefore advisable to carry out a cleaning and tipping operation, to facilitate the subsequent storage and foaming operations. A pick-up system collects the thermoformed panels 41 , 42 and 43 from the trimming station 200 and places them into a closed box. The thermoformed panels 41 , 42 and 43 are tipped with the help of a robotic arm equipped with grippers and / or suction cups. During movement, the cleaning member 320 (designed for example as a suction system) removes the residual shavings from the processing and the excess material.

[0225] The tipping and cleaning station 300 includes a robotic member 310 to perform a tipping of the thermoformed panels 41 , 42 and 43; in practice, the thermoformed panels 41 , 42 and 43 are rotated by 180° around a horizontal axis.

[0226] Therefore, while at the end of the thermoforming operation the panels are with the concavity facing downwards, following the tipping carried out in the station 300 they are with the concavity facing upwards - an arrangement that promotes the subsequent foaming operation. In the case of negative moulding, the panels are already arranged with their concavity facing upwards, in the tilting and blowing station; the panels will only be blown and tilted to make the residual shavings fall before being returned to the original position without being tilted by 180°.

[0227] The tilting and cleaning station 300 is also advantageously equipped with a cleaning member 320, to suck up waste material from the assembly of thermoformed panels 4, and prevent such waste material (deriving from previous processes) from interfering with the subsequent foaming operation.

[0228] Preferably, the tilting and cleaning station 300 is interposed between the trimming station 200 and the foaming station 500 which will be described later.

[0229] In one embodiment, the plant 1 comprises one or more storage bays 400, interposed between the thermoforming station 100 and the foaming station 500. More specifically, the storage bays 400 are interposed between the tipping and cleaning station 300 and the foaming station 500.

[0230] The storage bays 400 are equipped with automated movement members 410 that allow each bay to move into position to accommodate the set of thermoformed panels 4 that a robotic arm picks up from the tipping station 300.

[0231] The storage operation is useful because foaming (which will be described later) requires a longer time than thermoforming / trimming / tipping operations.

[0232] For this purpose, at the exit of the tipping and cleaning station 300 the assembly of thermoformed panels 4 is picked up by a pick-up system (for example, a pick-up system is a device that ideally moves in a system of Cartesian axes X and Y with a horizontal and a vertical direction) that places it in the assigned storage bay 400; the bay is automatically brought into position by a translation system on rails. Such a system also allows the bay to translate vertically along the vertical axis as well. The bays preferably translate only horizontally, the movable bridge on which the pickup deposits the part instead translates vertically to bring the panels to the desired drawer height.

[0233] As mentioned above, the plant 1 comprises a foaming station or area 500.

[0234] The station or foaming area 500 is located downstream of the thermoforming station 100 and, more specifically, downstream of the storage bays 400.

[0235] The foaming station 500 is made up of one or more presses, for example three presses.

[0236] Each of these presses comprises a lower plate 510, an intermediate plate 520 and an upper plate 530.

[0237] In Figures 2, 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d, for convenience, the operation of a single press is shown. As will be clearer below, the plates accommodate the moulds having the respective shapes for making the panels.

[0238] Each of the plates 510, 520, 530 extends substantially along a horizontal plane.

[0239] The intermediate plate 520 is shaped at the top to accommodate the thermoformed panels 41-42-43.

[0240] The upper plate 530 is shaped at the bottom to form, in cooperation with the intermediate plate 520, a mould for thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43 after the latter have been subjected to the foaming operation.

[0241] The lower plate 510 is shaped at the top to accommodate thermoformed panels 71 , 72, 73.

[0242] The intermediate plate 520 is shaped at the bottom to form, in cooperation with the lower plate 510, a mould for the thermoformed panels 71 , 72, 73 after the latter have been subjected to the foaming operation.

[0243] The foaming station 500 comprises a foaming member 540, configured to perform foaming on the thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43 accommodated in the intermediate plate 520, and on the thermoformed panels 71 , 72, 73 accommodated in the lower plate 510. In this way, foamed thermoformed panels 41', 42', 43' and foamed thermoformed panels 71', 72', 73' are obtained, respectively. With reference to the thermoformed panel that constitutes the structural shell 81 of the insulating panel 80, the insulating filler 82 is created through the foaming operation.

[0244] In one embodiment, the foaming member 540 is composed of a double-head foaming machine. One of the foaming heads is moved automatically on a Cartesian manipulator, while the other can be moved by an operator via a motorized trolley. The head moved by the Cartesian manipulator is used for open-mould foaming (better described later), while the second is used for closed-mould moulding (if necessary, for example in the case of so-called "sandwich panels”).

[0245] Preferably, the foaming member 540 also comprises two or more reservoirs to contain the substances necessary for the formation of the foam. For example, polyol and isocyanate are stored in suitable steel reservoirs. Such reservoirs are thermoregulated; in fact, there is a resistor in the reservoir jacket to heat a specific fluid in order to keep the reagents at a controlled temperature. From the reservoirs, the reagents are injected into a high-pressure dosing unit, using special recipes designed and recalled as needed. The reagents then pass into the high-pressure mixing heads where they are mixed so as to be able to deliver the foam (e.g. polyurethane) onto the assembly of thermoformed panels 4 and onto the assembly of thermoformed panels 7.

[0246] The foaming station 500 comprises, for each press, movement members 550, active on the lower plate 510 and on the intermediate plate 520.

[0247] The lower plate 510 is movable horizontally and vertically.

[0248] The intermediate plate 520 is movable horizontally and vertically.

[0249] The upper plate 530 is preferably fixed (for example mounted on a chassis integral with the ground).

[0250] In one embodiment, each plate 510, 520, 530 is made of solid perforated steel.

[0251] Preferably, each plate 510, 520, 530 is heated with water, at a maximum temperature of approximately 70-80° C and a maximum pressure of approximately 10 bar. The heating water flows inside the plates through suitable channels obtained during the manufacturing phase of the plates themselves.

[0252] For horizontal movements, for example, trolleys are provided; for the vertical movement of the intermediate plate 520 and lower plate 510, a piston system is provided.

[0253] The foaming station 500 includes a control unit 560, configured to control the movement members 550 to perform different phases within the foaming operation.

[0254] In greater detail, for each of the three presses, the plates 510, 520, 530 are initially aligned vertically, as schematically shown in figure 2. The area in which the plates are located in this configuration is identified as the operating area Z0. The intermediate plate 520 is moved from the operating area Z0 to a loading area Z1 where it receives the thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43 (figure 3a). This movement is preferably rectilinear and horizontal.

[0255] The intermediate plate 520, which at this point accommodates the thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43, is returned to the operating area Z0. During this movement, the foaming member 540 dispenses foam onto the thermoformed panels 41, 42, 43.

[0256] When the intermediate plate 520 reaches the operating area Z0, the foam dispensing operation in thermoformed panels 41 , 42, 43 is finished, and thermoformed foamed panels 4T, 42', 43' were thus obtained.

[0257] The intermediate plate 520 is then moved vertically, so as to close onto the upper plate 530 (figure 3b). Note that figure 3b schematically shows the intermediate plate 520 in contact with the upper plate 530. As better explained below, the intermediate plate 520 is closed onto the upper plate 530 by the vertical movement of the lower plate 510, that is, as a result of making the configuration in figure 3d. In other words, the intermediate plate 520 preferably closes on the upper plate 530 when the intermediate plate 520 itself is coupled with the lower plate 510. As mentioned, the cooperation between the intermediate plate 520 and the upper plate 530 forms a mould for the foamed thermoformed panels 41', 42', 43'. After a predetermined time, the intermediate plate 520 is moved away from the upper plate 530 and the finished product can be removed.

[0258] The lower plate 510 is moved from the operating area ZO to the loading area Z1 (figure 3b). This movement is preferably rectilinear and horizontal. Preferably, this movement occurs while the intermediate plate 520 is returning from the loading area Z1 to the operating area Z0.

[0259] In the loading area Z1 , the thermoformed panels 71 , 72, 73 are loaded onto the lower plate 510.

[0260] The lower plate 510 is then returned to the operating area Z0 (figure 3c). During this movement, the foaming member 540 performs the foaming operation on the thermoformed panels 71 , 72, 73. As mentioned, in this way the foamed thermoformed panels 7T, 72', 73' were obtained.

[0261] Once the lower plate 510 has returned to the operating area Z0, the foam supply to the thermoformed panels 71, 72, 73 is finished.

[0262] The lower plate 510 can then be moved vertically upwards, until it closes on the intermediate plate 520 and forms, as mentioned, a mould for the foamed thermoformed panels 7T, 72', 73' (figure 3d).

[0263] After a predetermined time, the lower plate 510 is lowered and brought to the area Z1 and the finished product can be unloaded.

[0264] Preferably, the lower plate 510 is also suitable for pushing the intermediate plate 520 against the upper plate 530; thus, with a single movement, the closing of the mould formed by the intermediate plate 520 and the upper plate 530 (for thermoformed foamed panels 4T, 42', 43'), and the closing of the mould formed by the lower plate 510 and the intermediate plate 520 (for thermoformed foamed panels 7T, 72', 73') are achieved.

[0265] Note that the foaming operation takes place in an open mould; in other words, foam is deposited over the entire surface of thermoformed panel assembly 4 and thermoformed panel assembly 7 by means of a moving head attached to a Cartesian manipulator.

[0266] The Applicant notes that this solution provides important advantages over processes belonging to the state of the art; in fact, the latter typically involve foam injection from a single point with a closed mould, a technique with which, however, the foam is not able to homogeneously reach all areas of the artefact, both because of geometries that may present irregularities, and because as the polyurethane exits the injector head it begins to polymerize, increasing its viscosity and making its path to the more distant areas more difficult. Otherwise, by injecting with an open mould, the foam is homogeneously deposited over the entire affected area, and during curing the direction of expansion is mainly in height. Advantageously, the foaming operation can be entirely automated; the path, the quantity of foam to be deposited and the working parameters are pre-stored and recalled according to the specific operation to be performed.

[0267] More specifically, the foaming member 540 can be moved above the thermoformed panels to be foamed according to preset paths, so as to perform a foaming of such thermoformed panels. In one embodiment, the preset paths are selected, for each panel or set of panels, according to input data associated with the panels on which the foaming is to be performed.

[0268] The input data can be entered by an operator, via a suitable user interface.

[0269] In one embodiment (figure 9), it is envisaged that the lower plate 510 and / or the intermediate plate 520 can also be moved in an additional area Z2.

[0270] The additional area Z2 is preferably located on the opposite side of the operating area ZO with respect to the loading area Z1 . In other words, the loading area Z1 is preferably interposed between the operating area ZO and the additional area Z2. In the additional area Z2, it is possible that particular processes are performed on the panels, before or after the foaming operation.

[0271] The additional area Z2 can be used for positioning the reinforcing insert 83, in particular at the abutment portion 81 ' of the structural shell 81.

[0272] The reinforcing insert 83 is positioned before the foaming operation is performed, so that the reinforcing insert 83 itself remains interposed in position between the filler 83 and the structural shell 81.

[0273] Through plant 1 and the process carried out by it, insulating panels can be obtained.

[0274] Such panels can be conveniently used for vehicles suitable for transporting materials at controlled temperatures, such as food transport.

[0275] For example, a vehicle 600 suitable for transporting materials preferably at a controlled temperature is schematized in figure 7.

[0276] In a manner known per se, the vehicle 600, for example, can comprise a chassis 610, handling means 620 (engine, transmission, wheels, etc.) associated with the chassis 610 and a cargo compartment 630 mounted on the chassis 610 itself. The cargo compartment 630 is configured to contain the materials I objects to be transported (e.g. foodstuffs) at a controlled temperature. For this purpose, the vehicle 600 also comprises a refrigeration system associated with the cargo compartment 630; or, the cargo compartment 630 could be, for example, part of the chassis 610.

[0277] The refrigeration system is configured to maintain the cargo compartment 630 at a controlled temperature.

[0278] The cargo compartment 630 is delimited by one or more walls 631 ; one or more of these walls may comprise or be formed by respective insulating panels 80, made as described above.

[0279] In particular, an insulating panel 80 may be fixed, in a manner known per se, to one of the walls 631 , so that the concave area C1 (filled by foaming) faces and is in contact with the wall 631 itself.

[0280] Advantageously, one or more fastening elements 87 are provided (figure 8c), coupled to the insulating panel 80 at the reinforcing insert 83.

[0281] The fastening elements 87 may be screws, dowels, rivets, etc.

[0282] The fastening elements 87 are installed so as to pass through the structural shell 81 and intercept the reinforcing element 83.

[0283] In this way, it is possible to reliably mount on the insulating panel 80 at least one of: a support element (e.g. a shelf), an anchoring element (e.g. a slot or hook for fastening straps), a thermal regulation device (e.g. a refrigeration apparatus). The object installed by means of the fastening elements 87 is schematically indicated in figure 8c with the numerical reference 88. The invention achieves important advantages.

[0284] First of all, the insulating panels made in accordance with the present invention allow the stable and reliable fixing of shelves, slots, etc. inside the cargo compartment of a vehicle suitable for transporting food.

[0285] In addition, panels are made precisely, accurately, and repeatably by automating most of the operations performed. Another advantage is that, by virtue of the technical solutions covered by the invention, multiple sheets / panels can be processed substantially simultaneously, significantly increasing production efficiency.

[0286] In addition, open-mould foaming allows for controlled and homogeneous distribution of the foam, thus achieving panels with homogeneous properties along their entire extent.

[0287] An additional advantage lies in the fact that the materials used are fully recyclable, with clear positive effects on production costs and environmental impact.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 08 July 2025 (08.07.2025)1. An insulation panel for vehicles suitable for transporting materials, particularly suitable for transporting materials at a controlled temperature, comprising: a structural shell (81) made of one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC); a thermally insulating filler (82) made of a material including polyurethane; a reinforcing insert (83), applied between said structural shell (81) and said filler (82).

2. Insulation panel according to claim 1, wherein said structural shell (81) has an abutment portion (81') to which said reinforcing insert (83) is attached.

3. Panel according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said structural shell (81) has a substantially concave conformation, defining a concave area (C1) and a convex area (C2), wherein said reinforcing insert (83) and said filler (82) are positioned in said concave area (C1).

4. Panel according to claims 2 and 3, wherein said abutment portion (81 ') forms a recess (84) in said structural shell (81), substantially counter-shaped to said reinforcing insert (83) and protruding into said convex area (C2).

5. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a substantially plate-like shape.

6. Panel according to claim 5, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a first face (83a) and a second face (83b) opposite said first face (83a), wherein said first face (83a) faces said abutment portion (81'), and said second face (83b) faces said concave area (C1).

7. Panel according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 6 when dependent on claim 2, wherein, at said abutment portion (81'), said filler (82) has a cavity and said reinforcing insert (83) is fixed at said cavity.

8. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a planar extent significantly smaller than said structural shell (81),wherein said filler (82) has an inner face (82a) partly in contact with said reinforcing insert (83) and partly in contact with said structural shell (81).

9. Panel according to claim 8, wherein said structural shell (81) has a first face (81 a) facing said convex area (C2) and a second face (81 b) facing said concave area (C1 ), in which the inner face (82a) of the filler (82) is partly in contact with the second face (81 b) of the structural shell (81) and partly in contact with the second face (83b) of the reinforcing insert (83).

10. Panel according to claim 9, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a planar development substantially parallel to the planar development of the second face (81 b) of the structural shell (81).11 . Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is held in place by said filler (82).

12. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is made of metal and / or wood.

13. A process for the production of insulating panels for vehicles suitable for transporting materials, particularly suitable for transporting materials at controlled temperatures, including: making a structural shell (81), formed from one or more of the following materials: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC); associating with said structural shell (81) a reinforcing insert (83); arranging, in said structural shell (81), a thermally insulating filler (82) made of a material including polyurethane, so that said reinforcing insert (83) is interposed between said structural shell (81) and said filler (82) wherein making said structural shell (81) comprises thermoforming a sheet material (2) under controlled pressure conditions, so as to obtain at least one thermoformed panel (41), wherein said thermoformed panel (41) constitutes said structural shell (81).

14. Process according to claim 13, wherein making said structural shell (81) comprises forming, in said structural shell (81), an abutment portion (81') to which said reinforcing insert (83) is attached.

15. Process according to claim 13 or 14, wherein said structural shell (81) has a substantially concave conformation, defining a concave area (C1) and a convex area (C2), wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is associated with said structural shell (81) so as to be positioned in said concave area (C1);wherein said filler (82) is arranged in said concave area (C1).

16. Process according to claims 14 and 15, wherein said abutment portion (81') forms a recess (84) in said structural shell (81), substantially counter-shaped to said reinforcing insert (83) and protruding into said convex area (C2).

17. Process according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) exhibits substantially a plate-like shape.

18. Process according to claim 17, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a first face (83a) and a second face (83b) opposite said first face (83a), wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is associated with said structural shell (81) such that the first face (83a) of said reinforcing insert (83) is facing said abutment portion (81'), and the second face (83b) of said reinforcing insert (83) is facing said concave area (C1).

19. Process according to claim 14 or any one of claims 15 to 18 when dependent on claim 14, wherein, said filler (82) is arranged so that, at said abutment portion (81'), said filler (82) has a cavity, and wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is fixed at said cavity.

20. Process according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) has a planar extent significantly smaller than said structural shell (81), wherein said filler (82) is arranged so that an inner face (82a) of said filler (82) is partly in contact with said reinforcing insert (83) and partly in contact with said structural shell (81).

21. Process according to claim 15, wherein said structural shell (81) has a first face (81 a) facing said convex area (C2) and a second face (81 b) facing said concave area (C1), wherein said filler (82) is arranged so that an inner face (82a) of said filler (82) is partly in contact with said second face (81 b) of said structural shell (81) and partly in contact with said second face (83b) of said reinforcing insert (83).

22. Process according to claim 19 or 21 , or according to claim 20 when dependent on claim 19, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is associated with said structural shell (81) such that said reinforcing insert (83) exhibits a planar development substantially parallel to the planar development of the second face (81 b) of the structural shell (81).

23. Process according to any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein said reinforcing insert (83) is made of metal and / or wood.

24. Process according to anyone of claims 13-23, wherein making said structural shell (81) comprises: arranging a thermoforming station (100) comprising a substantially horizontal wall (101), exhibiting an upper surface (101 a) and a lower surface (101 b), said wall (101) further exhibiting a through opening (102) and a sealing element (103) positioned on said upper surface (101 a) around said opening (102), wherein said opening (102) and said sealing element (103) define an operating position (P2) for said sheet material (2), wherein said material (2) is a plastic material comprising one or more of: Polystyrene (PS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC); placing a sheet material (2) in said operating position (P2); heating said sheet material (2); bringing, at said operating position (P2), a motorized mould (130) and performing thermoforming of said sheet material (2), so as to obtain said at least one thermoformed panel (41).

25. Process according to claim 24, wherein arranging said filler (82) comprises: performing a foaming and moulding of said thermoformed panel (41) so as to make said insulating filler (82) and so that said reinforcing insert (83) is interposed between said thermoformed panel (41) and said insulating filler (82).

26. A vehicle suitable for transporting materials, particularly suitable for transporting materials at a controlled temperature, comprising: a chassis (610); movement means (620) associated with said chassis (610); a cargo compartment (630), mounted on said chassis (610), for accommodating foodstuffs, said cargo compartment (630) being delimited by one or more walls (631); one or more panels (80) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, each mounted on one or more respective walls (631).

27. Vehicle according to claim 26, further comprising: one or more fastening elements (87), coupled to said panel (80) at said reinforcing insert (83); at least one of: a support element, an anchor element, a thermal regulation device, attached to said panel (80) via said one or more fastening elements (87).

28. Vehicle according to claim 27 wherein said one or more fastening elements (87) pass through said structural shell (81) and intercept said reinforcing element (83).