Perishable Cargo Condition Control Using Ethylene Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cargo transport systems lack precise methods to monitor and control environment parameters for perishable products, leading to speculative conclusions about product condition and potential damage due to sub-optimal conditions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for operating a product condition system that involves measuring conditions of perishable products using detectors, comparing these conditions to pre-programmed thresholds, and determining environment parameter targets to reduce product degradation, with commands sent to an environmental control assembly to maintain optimal conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional cargo transport systems monitor environment parameters (temperature, humidity, ethylene) to assess product condition, then general monitoring capability is provided, but measurement precision and reliability of product condition assessment deteriorate due to speculative conclusions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements real-time feedback by continuously measuring product condition parameters (ethylene concentration, respiration rate) and environment parameters (temperature, humidity), comparing them against thresholds, and automatically adjusting environmental controls to maintain optimal conditions, thereby eliminating speculative assessments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces subjective/speculative human assessment of product condition with automated electronic detection systems that measure specific parameters (ethylene concentration, respiration rate) and use algorithmic threshold comparison to objectively determine product state and trigger appropriate responses
2Measurement precision
If multiple detectors and pre-programmed data tables are implemented to improve product condition monitoring, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions: it receives data from various detectors (ethylene, temperature, humidity), compares readings against pre-programmed thresholds, determines product condition status, and controls environmental parameters. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated unit
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pre-programmed data tables that define threshold values for different product types and conditions. By changing parameters (thresholds, target values) in these tables rather than modifying the physical system architecture, the system can adapt to different perishable products without increasing hardware complexity
3Reliability
If real-time environmental parameter control is implemented to reduce product degradation, then product quality is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic measurement of product condition parameters (ethylene concentration, respiration rate) and environment parameters, comparing readings against thresholds at defined intervals. Environmental controls are adjusted only when threshold violations occur, rather than continuous adjustment, reducing energy consumption while maintaining product quality
Solution Approach 2:
The perishable products themselves provide the control signal through their respiration and ethylene emission. When products emit ethylene or show signs of degradation, the system detects these natural signals and automatically adjusts environmental parameters in response, creating a self-regulating system that responds only when needed
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 method provides an objective assessment of perishable product conditions, enabling real-time feedback and intelligent manipulation of environmental parameters to optimize product condition upon arrival, minimize equipment wear, and optimize energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a first condition of the perishable product, the first condition being a gas emitted by the perishable product and the first detector being a gas detector
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer implemented method of operating a product condition system of a cargo transport and/or storage system includes measuring a first condition of a perishable product by a first detector, and measuring a first environment parameter of a containment where the perishable product is located. Once measured, the system compares the first condition to a first pre-programmed threshold, and then determines a first environment parameter target when the first pre-programmed threshold is met.