Passive Temperature Controlled Container With Dual PCM Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a reliable, cost-effective passive temperature-controlled shipping container that can maintain a specified temperature range for an extended period without relying on electricity, as existing active systems are expensive and passive systems have limited duration and require precise configuration.
Innovation Solution
A passive temperature-controlled container design utilizing inner and outer phase change materials (PCMs) with a buffer layer, where convection between these layers maintains a consistent temperature through air flow, allowing the container to maintain temperatures between 2° C.-8° C. for up to 120 hours, with flexibility to adjust for different temperature ranges and durations by varying PCM amounts and positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If active temperature control systems are used, then temperature control reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs phase change materials (PCMs) that undergo phase transitions (solid-liquid) at specific temperatures to passively regulate container temperature. The inner PCM container holds material that melts/freezes at the target temperature range, while the outer PCM container provides additional thermal mass, eliminating the need for expensive active cooling systems while maintaining reliable temperature control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary air gap between the inner and outer PCM containers that facilitates passive heat transfer through natural convection and radiation. This intermediary space allows thermal energy to be exchanged between the two PCM layers without requiring mechanical components or electrical systems, achieving reliable temperature control at low cost
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional passive temperature control systems are used, then cost is reduced, but duration of temperature maintenance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places an inner PCM container inside an outer PCM container, creating a nested structure where both layers contribute to temperature maintenance. The inner container provides primary temperature regulation while the outer container extends the duration by providing additional thermal mass that releases/absorbs heat over a longer period, achieving extended temperature maintenance without increasing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses different PCM materials with complementary phase change temperatures in the inner and outer containers. This composite approach combines materials that melt at slightly different temperatures, creating a staged release of thermal energy that extends the overall duration of temperature maintenance while keeping the system simple and cost-effective
3Ease of manufacture
If passive temperature control systems are used, then cost is reduced, but manufacturing precision is required for proper configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The PCMs are pre-selected and pre-configured in specific quantities and positions within the inner and outer containers during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the container is assembled and deployed, the PCMs are already optimally positioned to provide the desired temperature maintenance duration, eliminating the need for precise field configuration while maintaining low cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for adjustment of temperature maintenance duration by changing parameters such as the quantity of PCM material, the thickness of insulation layers, or the size of the air gap. These parameter changes can be made during manufacturing without requiring complex precision assembly, enabling flexible configuration at low cost
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 container effectively maintains a stable temperature range for an extended period, regardless of external climate fluctuations, offering flexibility in temperature settings and duration, making it suitable for various cargo requirements without the need for electricity.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating gel packs or other types of phase change materials into the container
Implementation Method 2
utilizing inner and outer phase change materials (PCMs)
Implementation Method 3
convection between these layers maintains a consistent temperature through air flow
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology includes a passive temperature controlled container for passively maintaining a specified temperature range in a storage chamber of the container for a predetermined amount of time. The passive temperature controlled container may be configured to have an inner PCM layer and an outer PCM layer, with an air chamber layer between the two PCM layers to allow for the free movement of air around all six sides of the container.