Metered CO2 Cooling for Portable Constant-Temperature Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for maintaining controlled temperatures in portable coolers without electricity are inefficient, as they often rely on dry ice, which is wasteful, has limited cooling capacity, and poses safety hazards, and lack the ability to continuously regulate temperature.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained cooling system using compressed liquid and/or gas CO2, with a metering release system and electronic control, that maintains constant temperature by releasing CO2 through capillary tubes in a heat transfer plate, allowing for remote operation and variable temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If dry ice is used for cooling in portable coolers, then cooling effect is achieved, but temperature control is limited and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of CO2 from solid (dry ice) to liquid/gas phase, enabling temperature control between 32°F and 80°F. This parameter change eliminates the safety hazards of dry ice while maintaining effective cooling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a dynamic control mechanism with adjustable flow rate and timed release of CO2 liquid/gas. This enables active temperature regulation rather than passive cooling, allowing the system to adapt to different cooling requirements and eliminate safety issues associated with uncontrolled dry ice sublimation.
2Temperature
If dry ice is used for cooling, then cooling capacity is provided, but cooling capacity is limited and degrades over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a continuous cooling system where CO2 liquid is stored in a reservoir and released continuously or periodically through a timed release mechanism. This ensures uninterrupted cooling action throughout the entire trip duration, eliminating the degradation problem of dry ice that sublimes completely over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the phase change properties of CO2 itself as the cooling mechanism, eliminating the need for external ice packs or dry ice replacements. The CO2 system serves its own cooling function continuously until the reservoir is depleted, providing self-sustaining cooling for the entire journey.
3Ease of operation
If conventional cooling methods are used without electricity, then portability is achieved, but temperature control precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a temperature sensor that continuously monitors the cooling compartment temperature and provides feedback to the control system. This enables precise temperature regulation by adjusting the CO2 release rate based on actual temperature conditions, achieving accurate temperature control while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical temperature control with an electronic control system that uses sensors, microcontrollers, and automated valves. This substitution enables precise digital temperature control while maintaining the portable, battery-powered design without requiring external electricity.
4Temperature
If CO2 is released for cooling, then cooling effect is improved, but pressure control becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pressure-regulating valve and flow control mechanism as intermediaries between the CO2 reservoir and the cooling compartment. These components mediate the pressure reduction and controlled release of CO2, enabling effective cooling while maintaining safe pressure levels throughout the system.
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 system provides continuous, controlled cooling from ambient to below -40°F, maintaining items at desired temperatures without degrading over time, is easily refillable, and safe, making it suitable for transporting temperature-sensitive items.
Implementation Method 1
compressed liquid and/or gas CO2 coolant is then released into capillary tube(s) embedded into a heat transfer plate or heat exchanger
Implementation Method 2
The liquid and/or gas CO2 coolant is then released into capillary tube(s) embedded into a heat transfer plate or heat exchanger thus leveraging the CO2 coolant properties
Implementation Method 3
compressed liquid and/or gas CO2 coolant is then released into capillary tube(s) embedded into a heat transfer plate
Implementation Method 4
capillary tube(s) embedded into a heat transfer plate or heat exchanger thus leveraging the CO2 coolant properties
Data Source
AI summary
Standalone and self-contained cooling systems using compressed liquid and/or gas CO2 containers positioned in an insulated or non-insulated vessel encompassing a container which is either vertically positioned in an upright or an upside-down position.The liquid and/or gas CO2 coolant is then released into a capillary system or flow metering system to allow the CO2 to enter a second body to where the CO2 coolant properties may be leveraged. The second body includes, by way of example, a plate, a cushion, a spot treatment pad for a person's muscle, or a cooler.The temperature is controlled by a metering CO2 releasing system encompassing an electronic control device which sends alerts when pre-defined thresholds are exceeded.The invention's metering CO2 releasing system may be triggered by an electronic or a thermostatic valve or may be triggered manually or by an electronic solenoid.