Method in thermally-controlled space

Abstract

The invention relates to a method in a thermally controlled space, wherein the temperature of the space (10) is maintained and controlled by equipment (11). Storing material (12) is arranged into the space (10) to support the equipment (11).

Description

[0001] METHOD IN THERMALLY-CONTROLLED SPACE

[0002] The invention relates to a method in a thermally-controlled space, wherein the temperature of the space is maintained and controlled by equipment.

[0003] Products transported and stored in cool conditions, and especially products transported and stored in cold conditions, need a space that requires separate equipment, such as a refrigeration unit, to maintain the temperature. In other words, the required temperature differs substantially from the ambient temperature. Operating the equipment requires energy constantly. Yet maintaining the target temperature is challenging, especially in mobile equipment and especially during distribution, wherein the space is repeatedly opened. In particular, in the event of equipment failures and breakdowns, the temperature quickly deviates from the desired value. This jeopardizes the shelf life and quality of the products, and in the worst case, the products become unusable, even life-threatening. In addition, faults may go unnoticed or there may even be shortcomings in the use of the equipment. In any case, repairing the equipment takes time and otherwise resolving the situation requires exceptional measures. During this time, the preservation of the products is compromised and especially the cold chain is easily broken. Especially in mobile equipment applications, wherein products are stored, for example waiting for delivery, failure situations are often fatal. The driver is away and there is a lack of supervision. In this case, in the event of a fault, the cargo is ruined within a few hours.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a novel method in a thermally-controlled space to ensure the safe storage and transport of products with low emissions, significant energy savings and without breaking the cold chain. The characteristic features of the method according to the present invention are apparent from the appended claims. The method can be utilized in a variety of ways in logistics, such as in the storage and transportation of the products. The method is suitable for use in a wide range of spaces, including existing spaces with simple modifications. The method can guarantee the continuity of the cold chain. At the same time, it allows time for equipment failures to be detected and resolved. In addition, the method makes the operation and use of the equipment seamless, thereby also avoiding problems resulting from incorrect ways of acting, ignorance and negligence. In this way, the logistics chain remains intact, regardless of both internal and external factors.

[0005] The invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating some applications of the invention, wherein

[0006] Figure la shows an application of a space implementing the method according to the invention,

[0007] Figure lb shows a second application of a space implementing the method according to the invention,

[0008] Figure 2a shows a third application of a space implementing the method according to the invention,

[0009] Figure 2b shows a fourth application of a space implementing the method according to the invention,

[0010] Figure 3 shows a method according to the invention in logistics ,

[0011] Figure 4 shows graphically an example of an application of the method according to the invention,

[0012] Figure 5 shows a fifth application of a space implementing the method according to the invention, Figure 6a shows a sixth application of a space implementing the method according to the invention,

[0013] Figure 6b shows schematically a top view of the space of Figure 6a.

[0014] Figures la and lb show spaces 10 implementing the method according to the invention. Generally speaking, the invention relates to a method in a thermally-controlled space. In the method, the temperature of the space 10 is maintained and adjusted by means of equipment 11. In general, the aim is to keep the temperature constant at a certain target temperature. For example, in a frozen food warehouse, the minimum storage temperature is -18°C, while the freezing temperature is -25 - -30°C. In this case, the equipment is used to cool the space. In the invention, storing material 12 is arranged in the space 10 to support the equipment 11. Firstly, the material, especially when precooled, improves the performance of the equipment during normal operation. On the other hand, the material acts as a support for the equipment, allowing the continuous operation of the equipment to be adjusted. At the same time, the material charges itself, distributing the cold evenly throughout the space. Secondly, for example, during failure situations and equipment breakdowns the material acts as a backup system to maintain the target temperature in the space. This allows enough time to service or repair the equipment without having to move products from the space to another location. Similarly, the cold chain remains unbroken during possible forgetfulness or negligence. Depending on the amount of the material, the desired temperature remains for two to four days even without the equipment. On the other hand, the value of large cargoes is such that corrective action can be taken within a few hours, as long as information about the problem is obtained quickly. The method according to the invention provides this information quickly, allowing the equipment to be repaired without spoiling the cargo .

[0015] In Figure la, the space 10 is a thermocontainer 13, where the temperature is adjustable between -40°C and +33°C. In this case, the thermocontainer is ideal for frost and cold storage, wherein the equipment is used to cool the space. The equipment 11 is integrated into the end of the thermocontainer 13. The cold generated by the equipment is moved around the space, for example, by a fan (arrows pointing upwards) . At the same time, the material 12 is charged. In other words, in addition to cooling the space 10 the equipment 11 is used to charge the material 12. The charged material 12 releases cold evenly into the products 32. The cooling demand and the target temperature are determined by the characteristics of the space and the products. The method allows the space to be used at reasonable costs in increasingly warmer countries.

[0016] In Figure lb, the space 10 is a trailer 14 with equipment 11 on the front wall 34. The equipment 11 generates cold, which is blown into the space 10. Here, on the frame structure 15 of the trailer 14 there is insulation 16, which is topped by a load and abrasion resistant floor 17. Also the walls and roof of the trailer are insulated. As in Figure la, also in Figure lb the material 12 is self-charging while the equipment 11 is in use. Figure lb also shows two other ways of charging the material. The equipment 11 can be equipped with a heat transfer medium containing primary circuit 18, which is connected to a secondary circuit 19 in the material 12. In this case, the material is charged efficiently. The secondary circuit 19 can also be connected to an external device 20. In this case, the material can be charged before loading, for example, or the temperature can be maintained while the trailer is on board a ship, for example, whereby the actual equipment can even be turned off. The material can also be charged by a heat exchanger, which is arranged to the space containing the material. For example, the refrigeration unit is used to cool the heat exchanger, allowing the material to charge very quickly.

[0017] In the invention, the material 12 is placed mainly in the upper part 21 of the space 10. In this way, the cold naturally flows down towards the products. At the same time, the material is protected without reducing the net space. In practice, the material is preferably placed in the roof 22, which limits the space 10. In the method, the space 10 is adapted to be a means of transport 23 or a part thereof, a building 24 or a part thereof, or a transport package 25 or a part thereof. The building 24 is shown in Figure 2a and the transport package 25 in Figure 2b. Thus, the method can be applied in a very wide range of applications.

[0018] The method can also be applied in only part of the space. In this case, separate partial compartments 26 and 27 are arranged in the space 10 for products with different temperature ranges. In the means of transport 23 of Figure 3, the front part of the load space forms a partial compartment 26, the temperature of which is maintained by means of equipment 11. The partial compartment 26 also contains the storing material 12 according to the invention. The rest of the load space forms a partial compartment 27, which is thermally uncontrolled. There may be several partial compartments and temperature ranges. Different cassettes containing different materials are used in different partial compartments. In other words, the cassette and its material are adapted to a certain temperature range. For example, in a partial compartment for frozen food, the material has a phase change temper ature of -23°C. Similarly, refrigerator cold is maintained by a material with a phase change temperature of -1°C.

[0019] Preferably, the space 10 is adapted as a warehouse for temperature-critical products. Storage can be long-term, such as cold storage, or short-term, such as distribution transport, short-term storage, for example, in market sales, and other storage. Examples of temperature-critical products include foodstuffs, medicines, samples and raw materials. In particular for foodstuffs, the space is preferably organized as a food premises. The sensors in the space monitor, for example, the indoor temperature and humidity. In addition, the sensors are connected to a cloud service, allowing the transport chain to be monitored continuously and in real time. In other words, the sensors are wirelessly connected to a control system arranged as a cloud service. In this way, each space is its own food premises, whose characteristics and location can be known at all times. Thus, self-monitoring is possible and the purchaser, the receiver and the forwarder of the transport and the authority can verify that the cold chain has remained unbroken. The food premises according to the invention can also be used as a fish processing and storage premises. The method according to the invention can guarantee an unbroken cold chain.

[0020] The method uses cold gel as the storing material 12, which is tightly packed. Tightness here means leak-proof packaging that can withstand temperature fluctuations. For example, cold gel is packed in bags in laminated PVC protective fabric. Cold gel is non-toxic, safe and biodegradable in nature. In addition, it freezes faster than pure water. Cold gel is charged in a freezer for 10-20 hours and can be charged repeatedly without loss of performance. Other cold-storing refrigerants can also be used instead of cold gel. Preferably, the material 12 is arranged in one or more cassettes 30, which are removably fitted into the space 10. One cassette 30 is shown in Figure lb. The removability facilitates the maintenance of the cassettes. In addition, they can be cooled separately and placed as ready cooled into the space. The cassette can be, for example, a metal housing, into which the material is arranged. The housing also protects the material.

[0021] Figure 3 shows schematically the application of the method to logistics. Preferably, the equipment 11 is connected wirelessly to a control system 29 arranged as a cloud service 28. In this case, all spaces and equipment are accessible at all times and possible fault situations can be addressed quickly. At the same time, the control system provides centralized information on the status of transports and warehouses.

[0022] On the other hand, the equipment is also adapted to operate autonomously. In this case, the equipment remains functional despite the absence of connections. In other words, each device has at least basic functions for maintaining temperature and certain monitoring functions. Both the equipment and the space are equipped with the necessary sensors for measuring various quantities. The measurement results are recorded and used, for example, in self-monitoring. In this way, the conditions of the entire storage and transport period can be verified, thus ensuring the continuity of the cold chain.

[0023] At its simplest, the equipment operates mainly on the basis of temperature. For example, based on a temperature sensor arranged to the space, the equipment's operation and power are adjusted to maintain the target temperature. Preferably, however, the equipment 11 is controlled using cognitive computing and cognitive artificial intelligence. In this case, both the individual equipment and the entire control system learn all the time and thus know how to react to changing situations. Artificial intelligence can be adapted as part of each device, but preferably when integrated into the control system, centralized artificial intelligence is achieved, which can be utilized throughout the logistics chain. In addition, the control system has sufficient storage and computing capacity.

[0024] Put simply, cognitive artificial intelligence is a subcategory of artificial intelligence. Cognitive artificial intelligence has human-like intelligence and can mimic the functioning of the human brain. Cognitive artificial intelligence is designed to understand, learn and interact in human-like ways. With cognitive artificial intelligence, the equipment according to the invention, and especially the control system, operates autonomously, collecting data and transmitting it to the control system, while learning and modifying its response to different conditions and situations, if necessary .

[0025] Cognitive computing includes techniques that are based on the scientific principles underlying artificial intelligence and signal processing, and that cover machine self-learning, human-computer interaction, natural language processing, and data mining. Cognitive computing also includes systems that learn on a large scale, and wherein intentional decisionmaking capability interacts with humans in a natural way. Cognitive computing systems are able to synthesize information from different data sources to answer queries. These computing systems take conflicting evidence and context into account when providing answers to help people make more informed decisions. In the method according to the invention, the responses are used to control the control system and thus the devices and to resolve exceptional situations.

[0026] Cognitive artificial intelligence uses a wide range of artificial intelligence techniques, such as natural language processing, machine learning, deep learning, data mining and pattern recognition. Cognitive artificial intelligence operates autonomously by analyzing information, learning from it and making decisions and performing tasks independently. Cognitive artificial intelligence has human-like intelligence and can imitate the functioning of the human brain. Cognitive artificial intelligence is designed to understand, learn, and interact in human-like ways.

[0027] Cognitive artificial intelligence focuses on mimicking human behavior and reasoning to solve complex problems. It augments human thinking to solve complex problems with a focus on providing accurate results. Cognitive artificial intelligence simulates human thought processes to find solutions to complex problems. It finds patterns to learn or reveal hidden information and find solutions.

[0028] In the method according to the invention, cognitive artificial intelligence can be utilized in many ways. In the invention, the equipment 11 is turned off when one or more predetermined criteria are met. For example, when cognitive artificial intelligence detects an upcoming equipment failure as the vibration increases, the equipment is turned off to avoid further damage. Thus, the shutdown is performed automatically. The shutdown is safe when the storing material charged with cold maintains the temperature in the space, thereby avoiding a breakage of the cold chain. On the other hand, artificial intelligence also detects the equipment failure itself sending an alarm to the control system or other prede- fined destination. At the same time, the material arranged into the space begins to release cold to maintain the temperature. The material then acts as a backup system. On the other hand, artificial intelligence also recognizes a situation where the equipment should have been connected to, for example, a maintenance system, such as the electrical network. If there is no connection, an alarm is triggered again. In addition, all alarms, faults or anomalies are logged, so that the situation can be verified afterwards. This provides a complete report of the entire cold chain, for example on temperature. At the same time, artificial intelligence learns and can react and even predict future situations. Furthermore, if the material is not charged as planned, an alarm is triggered .

[0029] Preferably, one of the criteria used is location, which application is shown in Figure 4. Here, a delivery truck approaches a city center, where the use of the equipment is prohibited due to emissions and noise. The control system is aware of the restricted area and recognizes the location of the delivery truck based on positioning or environment, such as a traffic sign. On entering the restricted area, the equipment automatically turns off while the charged material maintains the temperature. Preferably, at the same time air is circulated in the space. In Figure 4, the equipment is running on the left side of the boundary 31, while after crossing the boundary it has been turned off. Artificial intelligence learns the delivery routes and knows when the equipment is running and when the material is not being charged, adjusting the equipment as necessary. At the same time, artificial intelligence reacts to changing situations and communicates with various associated functions. The method uses equipment 11 based on electricity, gas, hydrogen or other low-emission or zero-emission energy sources. Also the means of transport 23 are based on low- emission or zero-emission energy sources, low-emission or zero-emission energy source. In this way, in residential areas, such as in cities, the distribution can be done with the lowest possible emissions, even without emissions. Still, an unbroken cold chain or, alternatively, a meal at the target temperature can be guaranteed. Figure 3 shows solar panels 33 on the container roof. Correspondingly, the walls of the trailer 14 in Figure lb have solar panels 33 installed, as do the walls of the building 24 in Figure 4a.

[0030] Figure 5 shows a modification of the trailer of Figure lb. Here, a generator 35 is arranged in connection with one or more wheels. The generator converts the rotation of the wheel into electricity, which is stored in a battery 36, fitted to the floor. Thus, the equipment can even be operated using only the electricity from the battery. In any case, the battery is a backup system if the fuel-powered equipment fails. The battery, like the cassettes, can be charged before the transport operation, whereby the generator extends the operating time when charging is running during driving. The generator is advantageous especially as a decelerator, whereby the battery can be efficiently charged and at the same time reduce the abrasion of normal brakes.

[0031] Figure 6a shows a van as a means of transport 23, with the load space adapted as a space 10, from which two partial compartments 26 and 27 are isolated. The rear part of the space 10 is thermally uncontrolled. Figure 6a shows two trolleys 37. Here, the first partial compartment 26 is for refrigerated products and the second partial compartment 27 is for frozen products. The cassettes, made of different materials, are each arranged to the roof of the partial compartment. Access to the partial compartments is through side doors and there are double doors at the rear.

[0032] For example, a 40 mm layer of material fitted essentially over the entire roof area of a 40-foot container (length 12192 mm) has a mass of some hundreds of kilograms. In a delivery truck, the mass required is less than one hundred kilograms. The storing material serves as a support for the equipment and as a backup system. The products themselves are also cold, so that even with a small mass, a long maintenance time is achieved in the case of an equipment failure. In other words, the desired temperature is maintained for several tens of hours, even if the equipment is broken or turned off. For example, in sea transport, the container remains unopened, but the usual equipment is still operating essentially all the time. Also in mobile transport equipment, the equipment is known to be operating all the time, even when the transport equipment is waiting for a delivery, for example, overnight or even over the weekend. In this case, the fuel consumption of the equipment can be higher than that of the truck transporting the products. With the method according to the invention, the operating time of the equipment can be substantially reduced by up to a tenth. Thus, the equipment is operating, for example, from one hour to three hours per day. At the same time, carbon dioxide emissions are substantially reduced. In addition to basic logistics, the method can also be utilized in disaster areas.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Method in a thermally-controlled space, wherein the temperature of the space (10) is maintained and controlled by equipment (11) , characterized in that storing material (12) is arranged into the space (10) to support the equipment (11) •2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the equipment (11) is used in addition to cooling the space (10) to charge the material (12) .

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that as the storing material (12) a cold gel is used, which is adapted to a specific temperature range.

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the material (12) is placed mainly in the upper part (21) of the space (10) , preferably in the roof (22) limiting the space (10) .

5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a means of transport (23) or a part thereof, a building (24) or a part thereof, or a transport package (25) or a part thereof is adapted to be as the space (10) .

6. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that the means of transport (23) includes a battery (36) which is charged by a generator (35) mounted on a wheel of the means of transport (23) .

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that separate partial compartments (26, 27) arearranged in the space (10) for products of different temperature ranges .

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the space (10) is adapted as a warehouse for temperature-critical products.

9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the material (12) is arranged in one or more cassettes (30) , which are removably fitted into the space (10) .

10. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the equipment (11) is wirelessly connected to a control system (29) arranged as a cloud service (28) .

11. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the equipment (11) is adapted to operate autonomously.

12. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the equipment (11) is controlled by means of cognitive computing and cognitive artificial intelligence .

13. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the equipment (11) is turned off when one or more predetermined criteria are met.

14. Method according to claim 11 or 13, characterized in that the shutdown is performed automatically.

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that location is used as one of the criteria.

16. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that the method uses equipment (11) based on electricity, gas, hydrogen or other low-emission or zero-emission energy sources.

Images