Portable Cooling Container Power Management for Authorized Use Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable cooling devices lack effective methods for controlling their operation and power management across various use scenarios, particularly in the 'last mile' transportation of perishable goods, and there is a need for centralized control and efficient power source selection to ensure continuous temperature maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for controlling a portable cooling container that includes a controller with a processor and transceiver for communication with remote and mobile devices, enabling power source selection based on usage characteristics and authorized time, with automatic disabling when the maximum allowable time is reached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the cooling container operates continuously without power management, then cooling function is maintained, but power source depletes quickly and operational duration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts cooling operation based on real-time power source status. The controller monitors power levels and automatically modifies cooling intensity or cycles to extend operational duration while maintaining temperature control, transforming static power consumption into dynamic adaptive power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the controller monitors power source status, cooling effectiveness, and environmental conditions. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts power distribution and cooling operation to optimize both operational duration and power efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If the cooling container allows unlimited use, then user convenience is improved, but unauthorized or excessive use increases costs and reduces availability for others
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication and authorization checks before allowing cooling container operation. Users must be verified and authorized in advance, with usage parameters pre-configured. This preliminary action prevents unauthorized use while maintaining convenience for authorized users through automatic validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages authorization validation, usage monitoring, and time tracking without requiring manual intervention. The controller self-regulates cooling operation based on authorized parameters, automatically enforcing usage limits and managing power distribution, thereby maintaining both convenience and control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power sources are available, then operational flexibility is improved, but complexity of power source selection and management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages multiple power sources through self-service mechanisms. The controller autonomously monitors available power sources, evaluates their status and compatibility, and selects the optimal power source without user intervention. This automation maintains power source flexibility while eliminating the complexity of manual power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual power source selection with an automated electronic control system. The controller uses sensors, communication interfaces, and algorithms to evaluate and select power sources, substituting mechanical or manual power management with intelligent electronic decision-making, thereby reducing operational complexity.
4Loss of information
If the cooling container provides real-time monitoring and notifications, then user awareness of power status is improved, but communication requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a multi-functional communication module that handles multiple tasks: monitoring power status, sending notifications, receiving user commands, and exchanging data with remote systems. This universal communication interface consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive information flow.
Data Source
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AI summary
An illustrative example method of controlling use of a portable cooling container (22) includes determining at least one characteristic of an amount of use of the cooling container (22). The at least one characteristic is determined by at least one of a processor (34) at a location remote from the cooling container (22) and a container controller (30) of the cooling container (22) . A relationship between the at least one characteristic and continued use of the cooling container (22) is determined. An indication to a user of the cooling container (22) is provided regarding continued use of the cooling container (22) based on the determined relationship.