Thermo adjustable device for receiving and storing a parcel and system including same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel delivery systems that require temperature control for maintaining cold chains, such as for fresh or frozen products, consume excessive electrical power due to the need for electrical cooling and heating mechanisms, which is unsustainable in a context of reduced energy consumption and environmental concerns.
Innovation Solution
A thermoregulated parcel delivery system utilizing passive cooling means, where removable insulating panels form a closed insulating shell around the parcel, maintaining the temperature without electrical power by using phase change materials and adjustable passive cooling components adapted to external and threshold temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical cooling and heating mechanisms are used to maintain parcel temperature, then temperature control reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses passive cooling means that automatically maintain temperature without requiring external power supply or active control mechanisms. The insulating shell and passive cooling elements work together to self-regulate temperature based on environmental conditions, eliminating the need for electrical power while maintaining reliable temperature control for perishable parcels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs phase change materials as passive cooling means that absorb and release thermal energy during phase transitions (e.g., melting and freezing). This phase transition mechanism provides automatic temperature regulation without electrical power, maintaining parcel temperature within acceptable ranges while consuming no energy.
2Use of energy by moving object
If passive cooling means are used to reduce energy consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but temperature control adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different temperature requirements by selectively positioning different types of passive cooling means (e.g., ice packs, gel packs, phase change materials) within the insulating shell based on the specific parcel temperature needs. The configuration of cooling elements can be adjusted according to external temperature conditions and threshold requirements, providing versatile temperature control without electrical power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent varies parameters such as the type, quantity, and positioning of passive cooling means to adapt to different temperature control requirements. By changing these parameters rather than using active electrical control, the system maintains energy efficiency while achieving adaptability to various parcel temperature thresholds and environmental conditions.
3Temperature
If removable insulating panels are used to form closed insulating shell, then thermal insulation performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating shell is divided into multiple removable insulating panels that can be independently positioned and assembled. This segmentation allows the panels to be easily stored, transported, and configured to form a complete insulating enclosure around parcels. The modular design improves thermal insulation performance while keeping the system simple through standardized, interchangeable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable insulating panels are designed to nest within each other or within the parcel box when not in use, maximizing space efficiency. This nesting arrangement simplifies storage and deployment of the insulation system, reducing device complexity while maintaining effective thermal insulation when assembled around parcels.
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
This solution effectively maintains parcel temperatures below a threshold without electrical power, reducing energy consumption while ensuring the preservation of perishable goods, and can be adapted for various temperature requirements, making it environmentally friendly and efficient.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing passive cooling means, where removable insulating panels form a closed insulating shell around the parcel, maintaining the temperature without electrical power by using phase change materials
Implementation Method 2
removable insulating panels form a closed insulating shell around the parcel, maintaining the temperature
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
The present invention relates to a temperature-controlled device (1) for receiving and storing packages, comprising a package box (2) and at least one fixed thermal insulation surface (6) covering at least a portion of a wall (4") of the box (2). The device (1) is characterized in that it further comprises a removable thermal insulation surface (7) cooperating with the fixed insulation surface (6) so as to form an insulating shell delimiting an insulated volume suitable for receiving and storing a package whose temperature must be maintained below a threshold temperature, and in that it comprises compartments formed on the inner faces of the insulating panels (6', 7') of the insulating surfaces (6, 7), each allowing the arrangement of at least one passive cooling means.