Storage and transport device, temperature control system having a storage and transport device of this type, and use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temperature control systems for storing and transporting goods with different temperature requirements are energy-inefficient, complex, and require a power source, making them costly and impractical for use in existing properties, as they can only maintain a single temperature range and are not flexible enough for varied storage needs.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-controlled storage and transport device with a housing body and closure unit that uses a mobile, regenerative temperature control element for passive cooling, integrated with sensors for monitoring and a positioning system that allows for adjustable temperature control within a predetermined range, enabling efficient cooling or warming without a power source, and allowing for automated handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If active cooling systems are used to maintain temperature, then temperature control reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system uses the thermal mass of the cooling elements themselves to maintain temperature without requiring continuous external power. The cooling elements are cooled in advance and then passively provide cooling through thermal conduction and convection, making the system self-sufficient during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling elements are pre-cooled to the required temperature before being installed in the container. This preliminary cooling action stores thermal energy in the cooling elements, which then releases it gradually during transport or storage, eliminating the need for continuous power consumption.
2Reliability
If active cooling systems are used to maintain temperature, then temperature control reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system uses the thermal mass of the cooling elements themselves to maintain temperature without requiring continuous external power. The cooling elements are cooled in advance and then passively provide cooling through thermal conduction and convection, making the system self-sufficient during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex active cooling mechanism (compressors, condensers, expansion valves) is extracted and replaced with simple passive cooling elements that can be easily installed and removed. The complex temperature control function is separated from the storage container itself.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate cooling systems are used for different temperature ranges, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same cooling element design can be used for different temperature ranges by simply changing the pre-cooling temperature and the phase change material used. This universal design allows a single type of cooling element to serve multiple temperature control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different temperature control ranges are achieved by changing parameters of the cooling system, specifically the phase change material used and the pre-cooling temperature, rather than using entirely different cooling systems. This allows precise temperature control for different goods using the same basic hardware.
4Adaptability or versatility
If active cooling systems are installed in existing buildings, then temperature control capability is improved, but weight capacity requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex active cooling mechanism (compressors, condensers, expansion valves) is extracted and replaced with simple passive cooling elements that can be easily installed and removed. The complex temperature control function is separated from the storage container itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical active cooling system is replaced with a passive thermal system based on phase change and thermal conduction. This substitution eliminates heavy mechanical components and replaces them with lightweight thermal management elements.
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 provides energy-efficient, flexible temperature control that maintains consistent conditions for goods with different storage or transport requirements, eliminating the need for complex and costly active cooling systems, and allows for the storage and transport of goods with varied temperature needs in a single warehouse or transport vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
mobile, regenerative temperature control element for passive cooling
Implementation Method 2
at least one support which forms at least one common contact surface with the housing body
Implementation Method 3
at least one sensor element which is arranged on a carrier underside which, in the state of use, faces the temperature volume
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a storage and transport device, a temperature control system with such a device and their use.