Multilayer Thermal Shield With Fluid Circuit for Uniform Shipping Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal shields for shipping containers fail to maintain a consistently uniform temperature, leading to potential spoilage of temperature-sensitive products during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A thermal shield comprising a thermally conductive layer with a heat exchange fluid circuit and a pumping unit, which selectively pumps heat exchange fluid to maintain a constant temperature by directing it through a serpentine path on the thermally conductive layer, using criteria such as temperature thresholds and blockage detection to ensure efficient temperature regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thermal shield is placed in a shipping container to maintain temperature, then temperature-sensitive products are protected from spoilage, but the temperature uniformity and consistency are insufficient leading to temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal shield is divided into multiple layers including an outer protective layer, outer insulation layer, thermally conductive layer, inner insulation layer, and inner protective layer. This segmented structure allows each layer to perform its specific function, with the thermally conductive layer containing fluid circuits for active temperature regulation, thereby achieving uniform temperature distribution across the shielded space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates fluid circuits within the thermally conductive layer that can be filled with heat exchange fluids. These hydraulic/pneumatic systems enable active thermal regulation by circulating fluids to distribute heat evenly throughout the thermal shield, resolving the temperature uniformity issue while maintaining reliable temperature protection
2Loss of energy
If insulation material is used to reduce heat transfer, then energy loss is reduced, but the system lacks active temperature control capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges passive insulation layers with an active fluid circulation system into a single integrated thermal shield. The insulation layers reduce heat transfer loss while the embedded fluid circuits provide active temperature control capability, allowing the system to both conserve energy and adaptively regulate temperature according to product requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal shield is designed to perform multiple functions: the insulation layers provide thermal resistance to reduce energy loss, while the fluid circuits enable active heating or cooling. This multi-functional design allows the same system to both minimize energy transfer and provide adaptable temperature control for different temperature-sensitive products
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 effectively maintains a uniform temperature within shipping containers, preventing spoilage by continuously pumping heat exchange fluid through the thermal shield until temperature equilibrium is reached, and shutting down or adjusting the system as necessary to manage temperature deviations.
Implementation Method 1
a thermally conductive layer, and at least one heat exchange fluid circuit coupled to a first surface of the thermally conductive layer
Implementation Method 2
at least one heat exchange fluid circuit comprising at least one inlet configured to permit the ingress of heat exchange fluid
Data Source
AI summary
When products to be shipped are temperature-sensitive, it is necessary to maintain a substantially uniform and constant temperature to avoid spoilage. As a result, thermal shields are often placed on top of the products. Many designs for thermal shields have been considered in the past but improvements are still desired. Accordingly, there is provided a multilayer thermal shield (100) comprising a thermally conductive layer (108), and at least one heat exchange fluid circuit (120) coupled to a first surface of the thermally conductive layer, the at least one heat exchange fluid circuit comprising at least one inlet (124) configured to permit the ingress of heat exchange fluid. The thermal shield further comprises an outer insulation layer (104) connected to a first surface of the thermally conductive layer (108) and comprising grooves designed to receive the heat exchange fluid circuit. The thermal shield further comprises an inner insulation layer (110) connected to a second surface of the thermally conductive layer (108).