Unit load device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unit load devices used in air transportation face challenges in accurately controlling temperatures for sensitive cargos like medicines and biological samples, requiring both heating and cooling functions, while also needing to be lightweight, have a large volume, and a small footprint.
Innovation Solution
A unit load device with a detachable temperature adjustment module that includes a fluid inlet and outlet, connected via a temperature adjustment module with a fluid output and return port, utilizing phase change materials for temperature control and a battery for energy, with valves to manage fluid flow and optional phase change material sheets for enhanced temperature management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a temperature adjustment module is integrated into the box, then temperature control function is improved, but weight is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature adjustment module is designed as a detachable component that can be separated from the box. This segmentation allows the temperature control function to be added only when needed, reducing the overall weight of the unit load device while maintaining the capability for temperature adjustment when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature adjustment module transitions from a static integrated design to a dynamic detachable design. It can be attached to the box when temperature control is needed and detached when not needed, allowing the system to adapt its weight based on operational requirements.
2Temperature
If a temperature adjustment module is integrated into the box, then temperature control function is improved, but volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the temperature adjustment module as a separate detachable component, the box maintains its full volume when the module is not attached. The module can be connected only when temperature control functionality is required, thus preserving the box's cargo capacity for the majority of the time.
3Weight of moving object
If the temperature adjustment module is detachable, then weight is reduced, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable temperature adjustment module is designed with universal connection features that can be attached to and detached from the box multiple times without requiring complex specialized mechanisms. The module serves multiple functions including temperature control and acts as a seal component, reducing overall device complexity despite the detachable design.
4Ease of repair
If the temperature adjustment module is detachable, then maintenance is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable design segments the temperature adjustment module from the box, allowing the module to be easily removed for maintenance, repair, or replacement without affecting the box structure. This segmentation simplifies maintenance procedures while the universal connection design keeps the overall system complexity manageable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides flexible and efficient temperature control, reducing weight and increasing volume, ensuring cargo safety by maintaining precise temperature conditions during transportation, with the ability to detach the temperature adjustment module for reduced weight and using phase change materials for continuous cooling, enhancing reliability and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
the box includes a phase change material inside
Implementation Method 2
using phase change materials for temperature control
Implementation Method 3
the fluid output port of the temperature adjustment module is connected with the fluid inlet of the box, and the fluid return port of the temperature adjustment module is connected with the fluid outlet of the box
Data Source
AI summary
A unit load device, which includes: a box, which is configured to carry cargos and provide heat insulation for the cargos; an optional phase change energy storage material, which is disposed on an inner side face of the box and configured to maintain the temperature of the cargos in the box; and a temperature adjustment module, which is detachably connected to the box to provide cold and/or heat to the box. Different combinations of the box, the temperature adjustment module and the phase change material meet different needs in the cargo transportation process and ensure the transportation efficiency and quality of the cargos.