EP3433807A1

EP3433807A1 - Transport method for temperature-controlled products, transport container, conditioning device and control software

Info

Publication number: EP3433807A1
Application number: EP17717635.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hans Peter Esser
Original assignee: Celsius Entw GmbH; Celsius Entwicklung GmbH
Current assignee: Celsius Entw GmbH; Celsius Entwicklung GmbH
Priority date: 2016-03-24
Filing date: 2017-03-24
Publication date: 2019-01-30
Also published as: US20190301794A1; WO2017162885A1; CA3027754A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a transport method for temperature-controlled products, to a transport container, to a conditioning device or filling device and to control software. Disclosed is a method for transporting temperature-controlled products, according to which a transport container containing a product having a product weight is supplied with a pre-conditioned thermal mass prior to transport, the quantity of the thermal mass supplied being computationally calculated in advance on the basis of thermodynamically and/or logistically relevant data, for example the product weight and/or the starting location and destination and/or the estimated transport time and/or weather data at the starting location and/or at the destination and/or en route between the starting location and the destination, and/or a temperature range that is to be maintained.

Description

Transport method of temperature-controlled products, transport containers, conditioning and

Control Software The invention relates to a transport method for

temperature-controlled products, a transport container, a conditioning device or filling device for

Implementation of the procedure, as well as a software for

Monitoring and controlling the process. Temperature-controlled transports are gaining more and more

Importance. The best-known product groups include, for example, foods (especially fresh and perishable), medicines and cosmetics etc.

The state of the art knows two basic types of transport methods, namely active and passive. The term "active" is understood by the person skilled in the art to mean processes and systems which keep the product at temperature during transport by, for example, cooling or / and heating

Most well-known here are so-called active vehicles, in common usage also temperature or

Called refrigerated vehicles. The term "passive" is understood by those skilled in the art to mean that the products are packaged in such a way that, due to the nature of the packaging and its nature, it may be partially covered

Utilization of aids, the product in compliance transported safely from location A to location B of a certain temperature band.

The tools accompanying the packaging are

differently. The best known are solid and liquid insulating materials such as vacuum panels, dry ice,

Energy storage based on water or so-called latent storage etc.

Advantages of active temperature-controlled transport methods are the ease of handling, as well as the underlying the active transport temperature control. The for the

temperature-controlled transport products do not need to be equipped with an insulated packaging. The present in the active vehicle actual temperatures can

recorded and reconstructed for control purposes at any time.

Disadvantages of actively temperature-controlled transport methods are the acquisition costs and the ongoing operating costs. In addition to the investment, a special qualification of the driver is required. Also disadvantageous to the

Operating costs have an impact on "stopping density." In high-density traffic (e.g., inner-city), the vehicle is economically viable, and in rural areas with low stopping density, the vehicle is rather uneconomic.

Furthermore, it is a disadvantage that in the active vehicle no

Mixed traffic can be handled.

The advantages of passively temperature-controlled transport processes are mainly to be seen in the fact that the transport of the

Products can be transported and handled in the standard business of logistics companies. However, the condition is that the packaging of the products is designed in such a way that it also takes into account the outside temperatures on the market

Place of departure, on the way and at the destination, as well as the duration

(Transport time) of the product can meet the required temperature band.

A disadvantage of passively temperature-controlled transport method according to the prior art is that the necessary tools for maintaining the required temperature so-called static character. That means that due to the nature and nature of all

Insulating the same before transport regardless of the outside temperature and the transport distance and the product weight must be equipped with so-called thermal mass to the required transport temperature

observed. Depending on the required transport temperature, for example "cold": 2 ° C to 8 ° C, or "ambient": 15 ° C to 25 ° C), the required thermal mass of

To accompany the product shipment.

The addition of thermal mass is in the known method, a static process that is not demand-oriented in passive transport according to the prior art, but is considered a prerequisite for transport.

Another disadvantage is that no shipment monitoring (proof of compliance with the required delivery temperature) can be performed. Another disadvantage is that the package weight of a shipment is in a very poor ratio compared to the product weight (increased weight = increased handling costs = increased costs).

An object of the invention is to provide a passive To develop a transport method that allows to ensure that each product shipment is delivered within the selected time period and temperature band, and similar to parcel shipments, according to the thermodynamic requirements and needs of each product shipment, regardless of their size, weight and desired transit time proper reception of the consignment is confirmed by the consignee.

At the same time, with the help of the procedure, the

Transportation time to be chosen so that even one

possibly necessary return of the products to the

Sender (for example, if not delivered) under

controlled temperature conditions is possible

for example, also taking into account

Weekend delivery.

The implementation of the inventive idea can be carried out, for example, as described below:

Proposed are a transport method for

Temperature-controlled products, a transport container, a conditioning or filling and a

Control software that can be used advantageously in the implementation of the method. The transport container, the conditioning device or filling device,

Methods and control software are described below and are set forth in the accompanying drawings

exemplified and shown schematically.

It proposes a method for carrying out

Transporting temperature-controlled products comprising a transport container containing a product with a product weight contains pre-conditioned thermal mass is supplied before the start of transport, wherein the amount of

supplied thermal mass beforehand on the basis of thermodynamically and / or logistically relevant data, for example the product weight and / or the starting location and destination or / and the estimated transport time and / or weather data at the place of departure and / or destination and / or between place of departure and destination or / and a temperature band to be maintained, is determined by calculation.

An important basic idea compared to known methods is that for each transport container can be determined individually on the basis of the data, which are used for the calculation and which are different for each transport container

• whether the transport from the place of departure to the destination in

desired temperature band at passive

Temperature control within the transport time required for the transport is even possible,

• if possible, if the given

Temperature band without additional thermal mass, i. solely due to the thermal insulation of the

Transport container can be met, and

• if this is not possible, what type and quantity

thermal mass is needed for this shipment.

The proposed method makes it possible for the first time to use only as much thermal mass as is absolutely necessary for compliance with the temperature band, so that unnecessary transport weights are avoided. The dosage of thermal mass may be due to the previously be adjusted continuously to the individual case.

Further advantages of certain embodiments of the method are that compliance with the temperature band and / or a predeterminable maximum transport time can be monitored, that the delivery of broadcasts can be suppressed that were traveling too long or / and whose temperature has left the predetermined temperature band, or / and the before the delivery to the lawful

Recipients were opened without authorization.

The proposed transport method can be found in

certain embodiments, for example

to distinguish three components working together: a

Transport container for the products to be transported, a conditioning or filling device and a method whose algorithm, for example, in a

Control software may be implemented, wherein parts of the control software may be distributed in certain embodiments, for example, on the transport container, the conditioning or filling device, used for the process transport vehicles, mobile or

stationary writing-readers and the like more.

The transport container may, for example, have at least one cavity, preferably two, possibly three or more cavities which are delimited from one another in an air-tight and watertight manner.

The transport container can be designed both as a solid, but also as a flexible packaging. In a first cavity, for example, the product to be transported be placed and then this first cavity

for example, be closed. By way of example, the transport container made of plastic, cardboard, paper or foil or combinations of these materials. The transport container may further at least one

thermally insulating, i. have thermally non or low conductive container wall. This can be done, for example

Use of insulating materials such as

Foams and / or realized by vacuum. The insulation may, for example, be mounted inside the box and enclose the product.

For example, it can be provided that at least one container wall of the upper part and / or the lower part of the transport container has a heat-insulating layer. The heat-insulating layer can be used as insulating material

For example, amorphous silica such as precipitated silica (CAS No. 112926-00-8) or pyrogenic (CAS No. 112945-52-5 and 60842-32-2) may be included. The CAS number (also CAS register number, English CAS Registry Number, CAS =

Chemical Abstracts Service) is an international one

Labeling standard for chemical substances.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the heat-insulating

Layer enclosing the insulating material,

permeation-tight envelope and has been evacuated. Such a permeation-proof sheath can be made, for example, from a thermoplastic film, for example from polypropylene, polyethylene or the like. Becomes

for example, amorphous silica in a

permeation-tight polymer film welded and evacuated, you get insulating panels with high thermal insulation.

The heat-insulating layer can be formed, for example, as a one-piece, following the contour of the lower part and the upper part following three-dimensional, for example trough-shaped structure, whereby thermal bridges can be effectively prevented. Heat-insulating layers in the above sense can be particularly advantageously embedded in a container wall, so that they are protected from damage. Further cavities in the transport container may contain media such as e.g. Absorb liquids or gels or ice particles or mixtures of the aforementioned media as a thermal mass, or contain air or other gases to act as a cushion for sensitive products (cushioning media).

Advantageously, as the thermal mass, slush ice, i. a mixture of ice particles and water.

Slush ice has the advantage of being able to pump water through piping. If necessary, the water or / and the ice may contain dissolved salt. The additional cavities can be determined in certain

Embodiments with a conditioning device or filling device from the outside, i. through a container wall and / or through an insulation fill, without the closure or lid of the transport container must be opened. The products to be transported inside the transport container thus remain protected when filling the cavity or cavities with thermal mass in a sealed interior.

The transport container, for example, a technical Installation, for example, in the form of electronics

to provide thermodynamic and logistically relevant data such as temperature, humidity or destination of the

Transport container to record, save and

pass.

The conditioning or filling device may be, for example, a technical device which

thermal mass and damping media in the corresponding cavity in the interior of the transport container can initiate. The conditioning device or filling device may further include, for example, a media connection and / or a balance for determining the already in the interior of the transport container thermal mass, ie the

Transport goods or / and a temperature for the

Transporting serving additional thermal mass, as described above, have. Furthermore, the

Conditioning device or filling a

Communication interface to thermodynamically and logistically relevant data from the transport container

to be able to read.

Exemplary embodiments of the conditioning device or filling device are hoses with fittings,

Casting vessels, semi or fully automatic machines.

The control of the process may, for example, be carried out by means of an algorithm ^λ , which may for example be implemented in software compatible with certain technical devices such as an electronic circuit

Transport container or / and a conditioning or filling device and / or a transport vehicle or / and a read / write device interacts and detects certain states or reads out data and / or performs calculations and / or controls technical devices in the above-mentioned sense and / or data on such technical

Transmits facilities or writes in these.

The algorithm may include, for example, information stored on or in the shipping container or its components, for example, a label, electronic

Circuit, a display or the like stored or displayed on it, reads and processes. Such

For example, information may indicate the mass or / and temperature of the product, the current location of the product

Transport container, the destination, the current temperature at the location and destination, etc. concern. The algorithm can calculate, for example, the transit time of the transport container or / and the temperatures on the

Determine and evaluate the transport path, whether the thermal energy of the transport container is sufficient or if and how much additional (negative) thermal energy must be given by media in the transport container. This algorithm can be written down, for example in the form of software, further processed, for example, on a PC or server, and further, for example, one or more conditioning devices or

Control filling devices.

In order to ensure the implementation of the inventive idea, a transport container is proposed which may, for example, have the following features:

The transport container, for example, a lower part and a hermetically closing connectable with the lower part lid cover. Advantageously, the lower part and the lid cooperating closure elements, which

are preferably configured so that the closure elements can be closed tamper-proof or / and sealed.

The closure elements may be formed, for example, as claws, either on the lower part of the

Transport container are hinged and overlap the lid in the closed state, or are hinged to the lid of the transport container and in the

closed state on the lower part arranged paragraphs overlap. Advantageously, the closure elements are designed so that they press the lid against the force of an arranged on the lid or on the lower part of the elastic seal on the lower part.

Such a closure element may further include

mechanically acting lock, which is preferred

can be operated electrically, magnetically or electromagnetically. Also included are locks by

Shape memory actuators can be actuated. For example, a locking pin held by the force of a spring in a closed position and with a wire from a

Form memory alloy associated with the

Applying an electrical voltage shortens and thereby against the force of the spring, the locking pin from the

Closed position moves to an open position.

The operation of the lock, i. the triggering of a

Closing process for closing or opening the lock can be done, for example, contactless. The trigger a closing process may preferably require an input of a code, whereby only authorized persons are able to open the lock. The code can be communicated to the recipient prior to shipment delivery, for example in the form of a TAN and, for example, by short message.

Advantageously, the lower parts or / and the lid are designed so that each of several lower parts or covers are space-saving stackable or nestable. Furthermore, the lid and bottom are designed so that several

closed transport containers can be stacked against each other slip-proof.

The transport container may further comprise means for

Identification of size and weight of the transport container and / or the transported goods have. Such means may be, for example, optically readable labels, barcodes or the like and / or electronically readable and / or

writable labels such as RFID transponders or

like that. Such funds can continue

Displays include, for example, LCD, LED, OLED, electronic displays, or the like, which are both optically readable and electronically writable, i. are controllable to generate a display. Likewise, the means for identifying the size and weight of the transport container and / or the goods to be transported may comprise combinations of said means.

Electronic means such as locks, RFID, displays,

Loudspeakers, piezo loudspeakers, vibration motors and sensors may be preferred components of a

be electronic circuit that the functions of controls individual components and linked together.

Component of such an electronic circuit can be, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable microcontroller (MCU) as a control unit. In such a

Control unit can be directly integrated one or more of the functions mentioned, for example, a contactless interaction with a user, such as the sender, a logistics service provider or the recipient of the transport container, for example, by a

Read-write device can be carried out, wherein the read-write device may be, for example, a smartphone with an application-specific software (App) installed on it. The

Contactless interaction can be done for example by infrared, Bluetooth, NFC signals (which can be sent and received for example by RFID transponder) or the like.

Furthermore, such a control unit can be set up to carry out an authorization check and, depending on the result of this check, a switching operation of a

Initiate or reject the castle. Such

Control unit can also control a display,

For example, to generate a bar code or a QR code, in plain text or in encrypted form, for example, a unique ID number of the

Transport container or / and data on the cargo, for example, the mass, and / or the sender and / or the receiver and / or a temperature range to be respected for the cargo or / and temperature data of the cargo, for example, over or under a temperature limit, or / and via an authorization code or to generate a

Authorization codes contains required data or the like. Furthermore, for example, on or in the

Transport container may be arranged a second control unit, for example, at least one sensor for temperature and / or humidity measurement, a data logger, a

Arithmetic unit, a temporary energy source and a

Energy transmission interface has. This second

Control unit may be connected to the first control unit and exchange information. For example, a first sensor may be located inside the transport container from the point of view of insulation and generate data there. A second sensor may be located on the outside of the transport container from the point of view of isolation with respect to the first sensor. This arrangement allows the measurement of the temperature profile, a measurement of the insulation performance.

For example, the electronic components may be incorporated into the shipping containers so that they are not visible by the user (except for the display and the keyboard, if any). The energy storage can be charged, for example, contactless by induction or the storage of vibration energy. The start and end of the temperature measurement can be linked to the current status of the electronic lock (open or closed). Alternatively or additionally, the measured values can be continuously recorded and stored, it being further possible for example to provide that after one

predetermined period or a predetermined number of Measured values are overwritten beginning with the oldest measured values, which may further be provided, for example, that the frequency of the measured value detection of the current status of the electronic lock (open or closed) is dependent. For example, that can

Measuring interval shorter when the lock is closed

(corresponds to a higher frequency of the measured value acquisition) than with open lock.

The transport container should, due to its nature and

Texture have an insulating effect, whose

Performance is largely constant.

Advantageously, the transport container therefore has a

Thermal barrier on. This can be achieved for example by an insulating material such as mineral wool, polystyrene, glass fibers,

Silicon dioxide (colloquially also referred to as "silicic acid") or the like, however, the heat-insulating layer is advantageous as an evacuated cavity,

for example, between two walls of a multi-walled

Container formed. It can be arranged to increase the stability in the evacuated cavity supporting elements, which themselves consist of heat-insulating material to

To avoid thermal bridges. The support elements can also be designed integrally with the walls of the transport container. Alternatively or additionally, the insulating material may also be introduced into a permeation-proof envelope and evacuated in this envelope. In this case, supporting elements are not required because the negative pressure of the vacuum exerts no force on the walls of the transport container.

The container wall can advantageously one or more

have permeation-tight barrier layers, the one Prevent penetration of gas particles such as oxygen or water vapor. The barrier layers may for example be designed as a film and enclose the evacuated core materials. In this case, the

insulating core, for example, consist of flat plates, which are assembled into a three-dimensional contour.

Preferably, however, the thermal barrier coating is made in one piece as a three-dimensional, for example trough-shaped contour and then wrapped with the barrier layer.

Advantageously, the walls of the transport container

have production process integrated barrier layers, for example, by multi-component injection molding or

Flooding can be made of flat insert films. Also, the subsequent coating z.b. by

Sputtering or vapor deposition or by welding or

Gluing the barrier layers is possible. In this case, the prefabricated thermal barrier coating between the

Transport container shells laid, evacuated the assembly and then welded gas-tight.

An essential feature of the thermal barrier coating is that it surrounds the transport container circumferentially. The

abutting edges between the lid and the container wall are thermally low conductive and thus prevent heat loss at the joints. Here come preferably materials with high specific heat capacity and

low thermal conductivity for use

(For example, highly crosslinked and / or stretched polymers such as HP-PE). Furthermore have outer and inner wall

advantageously a high impact resistance. The inner shell can be advantageously made of a material with high specific heat capacity.

Furthermore, the thermal barrier coating at least one,

preferably have two openings for injecting thermal mass.

Further advantageously, the transport container has a

Storage layer for receiving thermal mass on. This storage layer may comprise one or more thermal mass storage spaces, for example as a cavity, for example between two walls of a multi-walled one

Container can be formed. The or the

Storage spaces can also have a channel-like structure in order to achieve a targeted distribution of the thermal mass. The or the storage spaces can

be executed meandering or labyrinthine example.

The storage layer can also be used as a separate, detachably attachable in the interior of the transport container and thus

be carried out as needed removable component. In this case, the storage layer is a fillable bag

executed. The storage layer is preferred

three-dimensionally designed so that they are the inner

Surface of the lower part of the transport container at least approximately replicates, so that the outside of the

Storage layer at least partially rests against the inner wall of the lower part of the transport container.

The storage layer can be designed as a disposable product for single use. For example, the

Storage layer be made of a plastic film made of polyethylene or other suitable material. Further, for example, the storage layer can be constructed of double-walled foil, wherein between two

Foil layers one or more storage spaces for

thermal mass are formed. In this case, for example, the outer, i. to the inner wall of the lower part of the

Transport container facing foil reflective coated to achieve good thermal insulation. In addition, for example, the inner, i. the transport goods

facing film to be coated black, in order to achieve a good heat transfer.

Furthermore, a two-chamber system may be located in the bag, the second chamber being independent of the first with a cushioning material e.g. Air or oil can be filled. Thus, shock sensitive products such as e.g. Watches or suspensions are safely transported on the bag.

A storage space can meander or labyrinthine

be executed. A storage space can be designed so that it can absorb a defined amount of thermal mass without the films being elastically deformed. If more than the defined amount of thermal mass is filled, the films deform elastically. As a result of the stress state generated in the material of the films, an optimal distribution of the thermal mass within the respective storage space can be achieved.

Preferably, the thermal barrier coating of the outside of the

Transport container facing and the storage layer to the interior of the transport container and thus the

facing transporting product. The transport container may further comprise, at a suitable location, means for adding and removing thermal mass. Such means, which may be arranged on a lower part and / or on a cover of the transport container, may comprise one or more valves, for example so-called double-poppet valves, lip valves or, in the case of the bag, additional foil valves. These

Filling openings can be located on the transport container or on the bag. Doppelellerventile and lip valves have the advantage that they simultaneously the supply or removal of thermal mass and the venting or venting of the

Allow memory space. The filling is carried out by the breaks of the insulation, so that a filling can take place in the closed state of the transport container. In embodiments in which the storage layer is designed as a separate, attachable in the interior of the transport container component, the means for adding and removing thermal mass part of the

Storage layer and be removed with this from the transport container. For example, the bag can be equipped with carrying handles, so that inside

Products can be removed at once.

The means for adding and removing thermal mass are advantageously positioned so that the thermal mass can be supplied even when the transport container is closed without opening the same thing

provides additional security.

Preferably, a means for adding and removing thermal mass is arranged on the top side of the lid. Further preferred is a further means for adding and to remove thermal mass at the bottom of the

Bottom parts arranged.

For example, a storage layer made of double-walled plastic film one or two valves, for example, double-poppet valves, lip valves, which in corresponding recesses of the lower part of a

Transport container are releasably inserted, so that their positions are defined defined relative to the lower part. Further, for example, the cover of the transport container in the region of or the valves have holes or recesses, which ensure access to the valve or the outside even when the lid is closed.

The transport container can continue at a suitable location one or more sensors, for example

Temperature sensors or humidity sensors, to the temperature profile of the cargo during the

Determine transport and record it as needed.

Such sensors may for example be attached to an inner wall of the lower part and / or the lid of the transport container, for example injected or glued in a plastic material. In the same way connected to the sensor or the conductors for

Transmission of measured values to or in the container

to be appropriate. Alternatively, sensors can be arranged on or in the storage layer.

Is it the storage layer, as above

described to be a separate, inside the

Transport container releasably attachable and thus If necessary, removable component, so for example, the sensor and the zughörigen interconnects can be mounted directly on the storage layer. For example, you can

Conductive conductive paste on a foil of the

Memory layer to be printed and a sensor can be glued to connection terminals of the conductors with conductive adhesive.

The sensors can also be part of the above

be described electronic circuit. For example, a sensor disposed in the interior of the transport container via electrical lines, for example

Printed conductors, which may also be mounted on a separate carrier substrate, with a control unit

be connected signal leading. In this case, for example, the other ends of the conductor tracks arranged on the storage layer can be arranged in the vicinity of the means for adding and removing thermal mass, so that when the transport container is closed a signal-conducting connection between the sensor and one, for example, in the cover of the transport container arranged control unit is manufactured. For this purpose, the cover advantageously has in the vicinity of the means for adding and removing thermal mass corresponding contact points, which belong to conductor tracks, which lead to the control unit.

The electronic circuit may, for example, a

comprise non-volatile memory component which is writable by the control unit with measured values of the sensor.

For this, the control unit can continue to use a clock (RTC) containing a clocked data acquisition by

Queries the sensor at fixed intervals allows. In this case, the measured values can also be written into the memory component as a value pair of, for example, temperature or humidity and time stamp. The measured values can be integrated by the control unit from the memory component, which can also be integrated in the ASIC or the MCU.

be read out and forwarded, for example to a display for optical output in numerical form or as a barcode, QR code or the like, or / and to an RFID, which may also be part of the ASIC,

contactless to a reader equipped therefor

for example, a smartphone.

The following are the proposed methods and

Devices based on embodiments and

associated drawings explained. Show in it

1 to 4 a transport container according to a first embodiment,

5 to 12 a conditioning device according to a first embodiment,

13 to 17 aspects of a transport method according to a first embodiment,

18 to 25 a transport container according to a first embodiment, FIGS. 26 and 27 aspects of transport methods according to further embodiments,

Figs. 28 and 29 aspects of transport containers according to others Embodiments,

30 to 32 aspects of transport methods according to further embodiments, and

33 to 37 aspects of transport methods according to further embodiments.

Exemplary embodiments of the proposed

Transport container are shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, wherein was dispensed with the representation of the means for adding and removing thermal mass. The transport container shown in Figs. 1 to 4 according to a first embodiment allows the transport of temperature-sensitive products in any temperature range and in any weather, reliable and GDP-compliant.

The multi-layer wall system of the transport container has vacuum gaps as well as fillable cavities. Depending on requirements, the upper and lower parts can be conditioned separately with thermal mass.

The interior of the transport container meets all common hygiene requirements. A soft coating inside and outside ensures the skid resistance during processing in the parcel center.

Due to their small wall thickness can be up to 13

Stack transport containers per meter with a useful volume of approx. 30 liters each. The thermal mass can be, for example, water or brine, wherein the thermal mass can also be designed as a gel. To determine the performance of the insulation, a thermodynamic measurement and / or calculation, for example, with the following parameters:

Example: Assumed product running time 24 hours. Assumed outdoor temperature over 24 hours: -6 ° C.

Assumed product temperature at start 20 ° C ("ambient").

Desired final temperature at receiver 15 ° C to 25 ° C. )

The measurement results in a performance diagram which is used as a basis for carrying out the method. To determine parameters of individual

Transport container may advantageously be a measuring device and for determining the thermal mass to be added may advantageously be provided a data processing device. The measuring device and the

Data processing device can advantageously by

Means be connected to each other for data transmission.

A measuring device may, for example, have the following features:

A device for identifying the size and / or weight of the transport container or / and the

transporting product, such as a scanner for contactless data acquisition.

A measuring device for weight determination (total weight of transport container and product), such as a balance. A device to introduce any required thermal mass in the closed package.

A data processing device may, for example, a data processing device such as a

Computer units with the following basic equipment include:

Data of a performance diagram for the thermal performance of a transport container, such as data about

Characteristic values, which the thermal insulation properties of the

Characterize transport container. Data on the outside temperature at the starting point, with the

Data processing device for this purpose by means for

Data transmission can be connected to an outside temperature sensor.

Filed temperature profiles (e.g., maps) for

various desired temperature bands and / or

Outside temperatures related to the desired running time.

Permissible final temperature of the transport container or / and of the product to be transported at the destination below

Consideration of the desired duration ("ambient" or "cold" or "frozen").

Data on the percentage of different thermal masses of the product to be transported, for example based on a database containing such data for

contains different products. Example: Each product has a specific proportion of thermal mass, which is of great importance for temperature-controlled transport.

In determining the required thermal mass for Carrying out the transport, the specific mass of the product is determined, for example, on the assumption that the product to be shipped consists of 30% plastic, 30% cardboard and 40% liquid. This results in the energetic evaluation of

thermal mass. The actual required amount of thermal mass is from the characteristics: Actual

Initial temperature, product weight, running time as well

Performance diagram of the packaging and desired

Delivery temperature calculated.

Taking into account the aforementioned parameters can be determined, how high the proportion of thermal mass of the transport container must be in order to achieve the desired duration within the desired temperature band. The existing in the product thermal mass is thereby

considered accordingly.

Based on the calculation described above

missing thermal mass supplied to the transport container.

Exemplary procedure of the method: · Determination of the necessary data (package mass,

Job location, destination, temperature on the route to

Destination, temperature band to be maintained),

Determination of the likely maximum duration of the

Starting point to the destination, taking into account Sundays and public holidays,

Deciding if the package needs to be filled with thermal mass and if so, how much mass must be injected

• Determination of the maximum possible term until

Delivery,

• transport the transport container to the receiver and

Delivery.

Optionally, it may be provided that the recipient is only sent a code required for opening the transport container if the package has been delivered on time and / or if the temperature inside the

Transport container was during the entire transport within the defined temperature band.

An advantage of the proposed method is that due to the known outside temperatures thereof

can be assumed that at least 100

Transport days per year no thermal mass to

Carrying out of safe transport is required.

In addition, by an adequate overconditioning of the thermal mass, the insulation performance of

Transport container significantly improved and the weight can be reduced.

The method can be carried out, for example, as shown schematically on the one hand in FIGS. 5 to 12 and on the other hand in FIGS. 13 to 17:

The empty transport containers are loaded by the consignor, sealed and sealed if necessary

Parcel center transported. There are no additional ones

Activities required. In the parcel center go through the sealed

Transport container the conditioner or

Filling device. This includes, as shown in Fig. 5 and 6, a lock and a respective upstream and downstream conveyor belt. Here, the thermodynamic conditions for the fulfillment of the transport order are automatically determined and conditioned the transport container according to their duration.

A first conveyor belt is used by the consignor

prepared transport container moved into the lock and placed on a balance.

In the self-sufficient working lock is a scanner

arranged the data to the size and weight of the

Transport container and / or the product contained therein and / or recorded at the desired time. The acquired data is sent to a data processing device

forwarded. In addition, a scale is arranged in the lock on which the transport container first

is turned off. The balance weighs the transport container. The collected data is forwarded to a data processing device. The data collected in this way will be stored in the

Data processing device, which may be part of the lock, but may also be provided in the form of a separate computer, by further data to

Outside temperature and / or transport time and / or desired temperature band, etc. added and calculated from the optimal for transport parameters.

On this basis, each transport container can be conditioned as needed and required. For this purpose, two feeders are in the lock in the embodiment arranged. A first feeder is connectable by lowering with a valve at the top of the lid. A second supply device projects through a corresponding opening of the scale and can be connected by lifting with a valve on the underside of the lower part. The

Add feeder controlled by the

Data processing device, the cover or the lower part of the transport container to add the necessary amount of thermal mass by these are embedded by the respective valves in the storage layers of the lid and base.

The supplied thermal mass can for example already be kept conditioned as desired, for example in a storage container. Alternatively, however, the thermal mass can also be brought to the required temperature only immediately before the transport container is filled, for example by the feed device having a throughflow cooler.

The feed devices can optionally also be designed such that they initially still exist

thermal mass from the respective storage layer

remove and then fresh, conditioned

thermal mass in the storage layers of the

Fill in transport container. It goes without saying that the

Proposed method also provides the desired result, if only the lid or only the lower part of the transport container is conditioned.

While previous procedures only with statically conditioned thermal mass, such as cooling batteries or

Working in a similar way, the compact lock automatically fills the closed transport containers within seconds with variable thermal mass, thus ensuring transport in the required temperature range.

Demand conditioning of the transport containers can be done for terms of more than 96 hours. Depending on the day of shipment and the prevailing climatic conditions, an automatic adjustment of the parameters, including the

Backward logistics to ensure. If, for example, a transport container is prepared for shipping on Friday, this can ensure that the specified temperature band is not left even if the transport container with the product to be transported only arrives in the parcel center on the following Monday.

With the proposed procedure, for example, the post office is a future-proof GDP-compliant for your customers

Logistics solution for all temperature-controlled transports available. The transport container shown in Figs. 18 to 25 according to a second embodiment allows the transport of temperature-sensitive products in any temperature range and in any weather, reliable and GDP-compliant.

It comprises a lower part and one with the lower part

hermetically sealed lockable lid. The lower part is double-walled, so that a cavity is formed, which is evacuated and thus serves as a thermal barrier coating.

Inside the lower part is a storage layer arranged as a separate, inside the

Transport container releasably attachable and thus

be carried out as needed removable component. The

Storage layer is formed in three dimensions, whereby the outer side of the storage layer at least partially abuts against the inner wall of the lower part of the transport container.

The storage layer is double-walled made of polyethylene film, wherein between two layers of film more storage space for thermal mass and several

Storage spaces for air are formed.

Furthermore, the storage layer comprises two valves for

Adding and removing thermal mass, which in corresponding recesses of the lower part of the

Transport container are inserted detachably, so that their positions are defined defined relative to the lower part. The cover of the transport container has in each case a bore in the region of the two valves, which allows access to the valves from the outside even when the cover is closed

guarantee . The lid has two closure elements, which are formed as claws, which are hinged to the cover of the transport container and engage over the lower part arranged paragraphs in the closed state. They each have a recess in the area of the two valves, which also provides access to the valves from outside

ensured closed lid.

In the lid or in the lower part of an electronic circuit is arranged, which drives a display to display certain data in plain text or in encrypted form, For example, a unique ID number of the

Transport container or / and data on the cargo, for example, the mass, and / or the sender and / or the receiver and / or a temperature range to be respected for the cargo or / and temperature data of the cargo, for example, exceeding or falling below a temperature limit, or / and about one

Authorization code or to generate a

Authorization codes contains required data or the like. The electronic circuit has a

Interface for contactless data exchange,

for example, with a read-write device.

In Fig. 26 is a partial process for the preparation of

Transport container shown after their use. In this case, after the delivery of the transport container, the data stored in the electronic circuit are first read out by means of a contactless data connection and / or in the form of a QR code. Subsequently, the transport container is opened and removed the storage layer with the thermal mass. Because the storage layer as a disposable product

is executed, this is disposed of. Subsequently, the container is cleaned, disinfected and subjected to a thermographic examination. Finally, the lower parts and the lid of the transport container are stacked and the

Refilling supplied.

Fig. 27 shows the transport of the transport container in the shipment of cargo from a sender

(Bulk mailer, retailer) to a recipient. The sender fills the transport container with the goods to be transported and provides the transport container with relevant data, such as For example, recipient address, mass of the cargo, with a breakdown of this data, for example, in

Mass proportions of liquids and / or solids of the actual transport and paper / cardboard and / or

Plastic can be made, and over that during the

Transports tolerable temperature band.

Subsequently, the transport container in the

Task Center, either directly or via a distribution base, where shipments are collected and then forwarded to the dispatch center.

There, the data generated by the sender are read out, the estimated transport time is determined, the requirement for thermal mass is calculated and the storage layer is filled with appropriately conditioned thermal mass. Subsequently, the transport containers are transported from the task center to the destination center. From there, the

Transport containers brought to the recipients, either directly or via distribution bases and Business Support Systems. After the recipient has received the goods to be transported, the empty transport containers are brought to the processing and then made available to senders again to make their goods ready for shipment.

Figs. 28 and 29 show an embodiment of a transport container with an electronic circuit. The electronic circuit can, for example, at a

Be mounted container wall of the transport container. To power the electronic circuit, this can an energy storage, such as a capacitor ("Super Capacitor") and / or a galvanic cell (here: secondary cell, "Chargeable Battery") have.

By a receiving coil (RX coil "," Charge coil ") can be inducted into this energy storage by inductive means, the self-sufficient operation of the electronic

Circuit sufficient during transport of the transport container from the starting place to the destination. For this, it is sufficient to keep a charging device ("Wireless Power Transfer (Charger)"), which has a transmitting coil ("TX coil"), in the area of the electronic circuit on the outside of the container wall.

The electronic circuit itself has a printed circuit board ("PCB"), which carries and interconnects the electronic components In addition to a microcontroller ("MCU") in the exemplary embodiment, these are two temperature sensors and a cover sensor which detects when the transport container is opened. The microcontroller has a

Storage capacity for data on and is over one

Interface ("RFID Interface") with an antenna ("RFID Antenna") connected to allow a wireless data exchange.

Figs. 30 to 32 show an example

Procedure. 30 shows an overview of the conditioning process: At the beginning of the process, the transport containers (boxes) and the products to be transported (transported goods)

provided. The transport containers are picked, ie the products are packed in the transport containers. Now the conditioning takes place, ie the demand-dependent filling of the transport container with thermal mass.

For this purpose, first relevant data for the specific shipment are determined, i. read in (data input). Based on this data, the required thermal mass for this shipment is determined (data processing). After

Conditioning the transport container is closed and sealed to prevent tampering.

The transport container with the transported goods is transported to the customer and delivered. The customer removes the product and hands over the transport container to the carrier. This brings the transport container back to the sender, where the transport container is cleaned and processed for the next shipment. Fig. 31 shows the operations in the apparatus ("Celsius lock") used for conditioning:

For data processing immediately prior to conditioning, for example, the transport container is identified on the basis of its identification number, the item to be transported or the transport container is weighed with the item being transported, and the temperature band to be maintained is determined based on the product type or read from a database. These data are combined into a data package that is the

Calculation of the required thermal mass is used. Is the transport in the desired temperature range within the required transport time possible, then the

Transport container with the required type and quantity

conditioned thermal mass. Is the transport in the desired temperature range within the required Transport time, however, not possible, then the

Transport container automatically or manually sorted out.

Fig. 32 shows the processes in the software ("Celsius

Control "), which is processed on a data processing device of the device (" Celsius lock "):

The imported data package is provided with geographical and meteorological data (distance to the place of delivery or / and expected duration of transport, temperatures at the place of departure and / or destination and / or between place of departure and destination)

merged and the amount and temperature of the required thermal mass calculated.

If the transport in the desired temperature range within the required transport time is possible, then a new data packet with the identification number of the

Transport container and the required type and quantity

thermal mass created and used on the one hand to control the conditioning in the device and

on the other hand stored in a database. Is the

Transport in the desired temperature band within the required transport time, however, not possible, the new data packet contains this information. It is then transmitted on the one hand for discharging the transport container to the device and on the other hand also stored in the database. The database is located in

Embodiment on a server with which the

Data processing device of the device may be connected by a data network.

FIGS. 33 to 37 show a further exemplary method sequence. In Fig. 33, the general overall sequence is shown, which is very similar to that of the previous embodiment. The consignor of a cargo, for example

Food, received from the logistician ("Celsius")

Transport container ("Celsius boxes") and picks these with the foodstuffs.Together with the required data such as recipients, type and quantity of the goods to be transported

Transport container transported to the logistics company, where a

Computer software ("Celsius Control") determines if and which thermal mass in which quantity in the

Transport container must be given. Is the transport in the desired temperature range within the required

Transport time possible, the transport container is conditioned with the required type and amount of thermal mass and finally closed and possibly provided with data on the shipment. However, if the transport in the desired temperature band within the required transport time is not possible, the transport container is discarded.

After delivery of the consignment to the recipient, the transport container is returned to the logistician, cleaned and processed, and the cycle begins again.

Fig. 34 shows a variant of the conditioning in detail, in which the logistics provider the cargo in the

Transport container packs. The consignor hands over the goods with the data required for the shipment (e.g.

Order number, destination, desired temperature range) to the logistician who reads out these data and through

Data processing ("Celsius Control") determines whether and, if so, which amount of thermal mass is needed for the transport Mass is required, so a transport container is selected, which has no cavity for receiving thermal mass, the transported packed therein and the transport container sealed and provided with a label on which the recipient is noted. Otherwise, a container is provided with a cavity for receiving thermal mass, or a transport container is selected with such a cavity, the cargo packed therein, the cavity with the

required thermal mass filled and finally the transport container closed and with a label

on which the recipient is noted.

Fig. 35 shows again in detail the processes in the

Device ("Celsius lock") in detail

electronic circuit of the transport container ("Celsius box") are stored in the software ("Celsius Control") on a data processing device of the device

the transport-relevant data such as

Order number, identification number of the transport container, etc. read out, create a data package and calculated whether the transport in the required time within the

desired Temperaurbandes is possible and if so, which thermal mass is needed in what amount.

Is the transport in the desired temperature range within the required transport time possible, then the

Transport container with the required type and quantity

thermal mass conditioned and finally

closed and possibly provided with data on the shipment. However, if the transport in the desired temperature band within the required transport time is not possible, the transport container is discarded. All read, determined and written data are stored in a database.

As can be seen from Fig. 36, the software receives

("Celsius Control") not only those read out of the transport container and / or by the sender elsewhere

provided data, but intervenes over

Data network also on meteorological data, ie

For example, the weather data at the start location and destination, too. These are included in the calculation because they significantly influence the demand for thermal mass. The data determined therefrom with regard to the decision as to whether the transport in the desired temperature band within the required transport time is possible, and what quantity of which thermal mass therefor possibly in the

Transport container is to be filled are stored together with the identification number of the transport container on the one hand in a database and on the other hand to control the conditioning and storage

transport-relevant data in the transport container to the

Device returned ("data transfer").

The further procedure after the return of the

Transport container through the receiver ("Celsius Clean

(Processing) ") is for this embodiment

exemplified in Fig. 37. After the transport containers have been returned to the logistician, the data stored therein, for example, the identification number, measured indoor temperature data, etc.) are read out. The lid is removed from the base and washed in a cleaning system, rinsed, dried and after completion of the cleaning for the stored next use.

If the transport container has a cavity for receiving thermal mass, this is removed from the lower part

extracted, the thermal mass emptied and washed the cavity in a cleaning system, rinsed, dried and stored after the completion of cleaning for the next use.

The lower part is optically examined for impurities. Is the lower part without complaints, it can be stored immediately. Otherwise it will be in one

Cleaning equipment washed, rinsed, dried and after the completion of cleaning for the next use

stored .

Claims

Method for carrying out transports

Temperature-controlled products, in which a

Transport container containing a product with a

Contains product weight, pre-conditioned thermal mass is supplied before the start of transport, wherein the amount of thermal mass supplied beforehand on the basis of thermodynamic and / or logistically relevant data, such as the product weight and / or the starting point and destination and / or the estimated transport time and / or from

Weather data at the place of departure and / or at the destination and / or between the place of departure and the destination and / or one

to be maintained temperature band, calculated.

Method according to claim 1, wherein information which is stored on, on or in the transport container or its components, for example a label, an electronic circuit, a display or

stored or displayed on it, be read out and processed.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein after the

Filling the transport container with thermal mass information, for example, about the time of the start of transport, on, on or in the transport container or its components, such as a label, attached or stored in an electronic circuit.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein

a temperature in the interior of the transport container during transport recorded continuously and

is stored.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein

a receiver of the transport container data

be sent to open the

Transport container needed.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the data are transmitted only if the transport time a

specified time has not exceeded.

7. The method of claim 5 or 6, wherein the data are transmitted only if the temperature inside the transport container during transport has not left a predeterminable temperature range.

8. Transport container comprising a lower part and a hermetically closable with the lower part of the lid, wherein the lower part and the lid

have cooperating closure elements, which are preferably designed so that the Closure elements tamper-proof sealed and / or sealed.

9. Transport container according to claim 8, wherein at least one container wall of the upper part and / or the lower part of the transport container has a heat-insulating layer.

10. Transport container according to claim 9, wherein the

heat insulating layer as insulation amorphous

Contains silica.

11. Transport container according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the heat-insulating layer is an insulating material

enclosing, permeationsdichte shell and is evacuated.

12. Transport container one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the heat-insulating layer is a one-piece, following the contour of the lower part and the upper part

is three-dimensional structure.

13. Transport container according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the heat-insulating layer is embedded in a container wall.

14. Transport container according to one of claims 8 to 13, which has at least one fillable with thermal mass cavity.

15. Transport container according to claim 14, wherein the

at least one cavity in a container wall

is arranged.

16. Transport container according to claim 14, wherein the at least one cavity in one in the

Transport container can be inserted and removed therefrom flexible bag is arranged.

17. Transport container according to one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the at least one cavity has a filling opening which is accessible when the transport container is closed.

18. Transport container according to one of claims 8 to 17, wherein the lower part and the lid have cooperating closure elements.

19. Transport container according to claim 18, wherein a

Closing element comprises a lock, which can be preferably operated electrically, magnetically or electromagnetically.

20. Transport container according to one of claims 8 to 19, which has an electronic circuit for receiving and / or storage and / or delivery of thermodynamically and / or logistically relevant data such as temperature and / or humidity and / or destination of the transport container.

21. Transport container according to claim 20, wherein the

electronic circuit is operatively connected to a lock.

22. Transport container according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the electronic circuit is designed for wireless data transmission.

23. Apparatus for preparing transports Temperature controlled products, comprising a

Device for identifying the transport container and / or the size of the transport container or / and for detecting the product weight, or / and a

Measuring device for determining the total weight of transport container and product, one

Data processing device which is set up to determine the required thermal mass and a device for possibly required thermal mass in the closed transport container

to bring in.

Apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the

Data processing device for wireless

Data transmission is formed.

Apparatus according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the

Data processing device for reading data from an electronic circuit of a transport container or / and for writing data in an electronic circuit of the transport container is formed.

Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the data processing means is connected to a database or a data network and obtains data from the database or the data network and / or transmits data to the database and / or sends it to the data network.

Apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the data to

Destinations and / or outdoor temperatures and / or

Delivery times are related.

28. The apparatus of claim 26 or 27, wherein the data required for opening a transport container and / or for transport cost accounting, transmitted or sent. 29. Computer program product in one

Data processing device of a device according to one of claims 23 to 28 is executed, and a method according to any one of claims 1 to 7

performs.