Modular PCM Pallet Cover for Extended Temperature Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pallet covers for temperature-sensitive materials lack effective temperature control and insulation, particularly in maintaining a consistent temperature range for extended periods, especially for perishable goods during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A pallet cover design featuring multiple layers of phase-change material pouches and insulation, with adjustable and detachable walls, and the option to include a thermal insulation wrap, to provide comprehensive temperature control and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional pallet covers are used without phase-change materials, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the temperature control capability is insufficient for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates phase-change materials (PCMs) into pouches that are integrated into the pallet cover walls. These PCMs undergo phase transitions (melting/freezing) at specific temperatures to absorb or release heat, thereby maintaining a stable temperature range within the enclosed space for extended periods without external power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet cover employs a composite structure combining multiple materials: phase-change materials in pouches, insulating materials (such as foam or fiberfill), and outer protective layers. This composite design enhances both the temperature control capability and the duration of temperature maintenance by combining the thermal regulation properties of PCMs with the thermal insulation properties of other materials.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple layers of phase-change material pouches and insulation are added, then temperature stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phase-change materials are divided into multiple discrete pouches that are distributed throughout the walls of the pallet cover. Each pouch is a separate, self-contained unit that can be independently manufactured and positioned. This segmentation allows for flexible design, easier assembly, and simplified maintenance while achieving uniform temperature distribution across the enclosed space.
Solution Approach 2:
The pouches containing phase-change materials are nested within the wall structure of the pallet cover, with insulating materials positioned between the pouches and the inner or outer surfaces. This nested arrangement maximizes the use of available space, integrates multiple functional layers (PCMs and insulation) into a compact structure, and reduces overall device complexity by combining multiple components into a unified assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If detachable and adjustable walls are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet cover features detachable walls with connection mechanisms (such as hooks, loops, or snap-fits) that allow the walls to be easily assembled and disassembled. The walls can be adjusted in position or configuration to accommodate different load sizes and shapes. This dynamic design enables the same cover structure to adapt to various transportation needs while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes for each individual wall component.
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 pallet cover effectively maintains a stable temperature range for temperature-sensitive materials, enhancing the preservation of perishable goods during transportation by utilizing phase-change materials and insulation, ensuring efficient temperature regulation and protection.
Implementation Method 1
multiple layers of phase-change material pouches and insulation
Implementation Method 2
phase-change materials and insulation, ensuring efficient temperature regulation
Implementation Method 3
multiple layers of phase-change material pouches and insulation
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet cover suitable for use in covering at least a portion of a payload on a pallet and a kit for use in making the pallet cover. In one embodiment, the pallet cover includes a top wall, a front wall, a rear wall, a left side wall, and a right side wall, wherein the walls are detachably joined to one another. Each of the top wall, the front wall, the rear wall, the left side wall, and the right side wall includes a first fabric sheet and a second fabric sheet, the first and second fabric sheets being joined together to form a plurality of pockets. Each pocket may removably receive a temperature-control member containing a phase-change material. At least one of the top wall, the front wall, the rear wall, the left side wall and the right side wall may include a plurality of detachably joined portions.