WO2015114331A1 - Système de casiers - Google Patents

Système de casiers Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015114331A1
WO2015114331A1 PCT/GB2015/050198 GB2015050198W WO2015114331A1 WO 2015114331 A1 WO2015114331 A1 WO 2015114331A1 GB 2015050198 W GB2015050198 W GB 2015050198W WO 2015114331 A1 WO2015114331 A1 WO 2015114331A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
temperature
compartments
compartment
storage apparatus
cooling
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2015/050198
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Nashim Imam
Nigel DADE
Gareth HUNT
Hoi Kan CHUNG
Original Assignee
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB1401539.0A external-priority patent/GB201401539D0/en
Priority claimed from GB1401910.3A external-priority patent/GB2522718A/en
Priority claimed from GB1411043.1A external-priority patent/GB2522940B/en
Priority claimed from GB201416641A external-priority patent/GB201416641D0/en
Priority claimed from GB1416742.3A external-priority patent/GB2522737B/en
Priority claimed from GB1423158.3A external-priority patent/GB2524135B/en
Priority to US15/111,698 priority Critical patent/US10976092B2/en
Priority to EP17207522.8A priority patent/EP3336458B1/fr
Priority to EP15702558.6A priority patent/EP3099989B1/fr
Application filed by Illinois Tool Works Inc. filed Critical Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Priority to CN201580017214.2A priority patent/CN106415164B/zh
Priority to EP17207527.7A priority patent/EP3336459B1/fr
Priority to CA2936964A priority patent/CA2936964C/fr
Publication of WO2015114331A1 publication Critical patent/WO2015114331A1/fr
Priority to US15/609,906 priority patent/US10883754B2/en
Priority to US15/609,874 priority patent/US20170299249A1/en
Priority to US15/609,922 priority patent/US10962273B2/en
Priority to US16/707,778 priority patent/US20200116414A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/10—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property
    • G07F17/12—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned
    • G07F17/13—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned the containers being a postal pick-up locker
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D13/00—Stationary devices, e.g. cold-rooms
    • F25D13/02—Stationary devices, e.g. cold-rooms with several cooling compartments, e.g. refrigerated locker systems
    • F25D13/04—Stationary devices, e.g. cold-rooms with several cooling compartments, e.g. refrigerated locker systems the compartments being at different temperatures
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/62—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles in which the articles are stored in compartments in fixed receptacles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
    • G07F9/10—Casings or parts thereof, e.g. with means for heating or cooling
    • G07F9/105—Heating or cooling means, for temperature and humidity control, for the conditioning of articles and their storage

Definitions

  • each storage space has to provide enough ventilation to prevent build-up of heat.
  • each storage space containing the refrigerated unit has its own dedicated fan leading to increased energy consumption as well as increased likelihood of breakdowns.
  • Running multiple refrigerated units, with each refrigerated unit having its own compressor, is very inefficient.
  • the need to provide ventilation to the individual storage spaces for accommodating the refrigerated goods would create a warm harbour for vermin such as rats, particularly during the winter months.
  • the fridge section has a first chamber and a first set of dividers that divide the first chamber into the first sections for each of the compartments.
  • the fridge has a second chamber and a second set of dividers that divide the second chamber into the second sections for each of the compartments.
  • the dividers have apertures (e.g. wire grille or mesh) that allow air flow between the sections within the respective chamber.
  • the dividers isolate goods stowed in one compartment from goods stowed in an adjacent compartment.
  • goods in each locker may impede the flow of air through the walls of adjacent lockers and therefore, affect the cooling performance in each of the compartments.
  • the temperature controlled storage apparatus comprises at least one common distribution system that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing a heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the one or more compartments in each of the plurality of storage spaces.
  • the refrigeration system is preferably a vapour compression refrigeration unit comprising a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve and an evaporator (metering device).
  • the vapour compression refrigeration unit is commonly described as a heat pump served to extract and convey heat from the evaporator to the atmosphere, with the use of a refrigerant.
  • the refrigerant is conveyed directly to the compartments with the use of at least one common distribution system.
  • the benefit of utilising one common distribution system for distributing the heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the one or more compartments in each of the plurality of lockable storage spaces is greatly improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance cost. This enables the use of only one refrigeration system to provide cooling for multiple storage spaces, significantly reducing the footprint required.
  • localised ventilation is needed for heat dissipation.
  • the localised ventilation can be omitted.
  • the use of a common distribution system allows the refrigeration system to be positioned remotely from the lockable storage spaces.
  • the refrigeration system can be physically separate to the lockable storage spaces.
  • the refrigeration system can be adjacent the lockable storage spaces but integrated into a locker module comprising an assembly of the lockable storage spaces, e.g. at the top of the locker modules.
  • the refrigeration system can be physically separate to the locker modules.
  • the temperature of each of the one or more compartments is independently controllable by separately varying the quantity of heat transferred to said one or more compartments.
  • the quantity of heat transferred is varied by varying the duration of time the heat transfer fluid passes to the one or more compartments.
  • the quantity of heat transferred is varied to each of the one or more compartments by varying the temperature difference between the heat transfer fluid to the each of the one or more compartments and the temperature of their corresponding compartments. Having a steeper temperature gradient between heat transfer fluid and the compartment increases the rate of heat transfer. Therefore to promote rapid cooling in the compartments the heat transfer fluid may be supplied to the compartments at a lower temperature.
  • the temperature controlled storage comprises at least one valve for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the one or more compartments.
  • the quantity of heat transferred to the compartments can be controlled by varying the flow rate and/or the flow duration of heat transfer fluid. In some cases combined use of on/off valves and throttling valves gives a more precise control of the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid.
  • the heat transfer fluid is a liquid or a gas.
  • the heat transfer fluid is a refrigerant, and optionally the refrigerant is type R290 refrigerant.
  • the common distribution system comprises a first distribution system for distributing a first heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with a second distribution system; said second distribution system distributes a second heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with each of the one or more compartments.
  • Independent control of the first and second heat transfer fluid permits the temperature within each compartment to be controlled more precisely. This facilitates rapid switchover between the different storage temperatures.
  • each of the one or more compartments comprises a heat exchanger and a fan for circulating air from the heat exchanger into the at least one of each of the one or more compartments.
  • the utilization of air circulation improves the heat transfer from the heat transfer fluid to the air within the at least one of each of the one or more compartments and thus the switchover between different storage temperatures can be carried out much promptly. Indeed the improved efficiency means a smaller surface area for heat transfer is required, thus the heat exchanger design can be made simpler.
  • the temperature of the at least one of each of the one or more compartments is controlled by controlling the speed of the fan. The utilization of air circulation improves the heat transfer from the heat transfer fluid to the air within at least one compartment and thus the switchover between different storage temperatures can be carried out much more rapidly.
  • the refrigeration system defines a primary refrigeration system and the chiller unit defines a secondary refrigeration system, said chiller unit is in cooperation with the primary refrigeration system by a separate distribution system distributing a chiller heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the heat transfer fluid in the primary refrigeration system.
  • the separate distribution system distributes the chiller heat transfer fluid to a plurality of said primary refrigeration systems or units.
  • the secondary refrigeration system of the chiller unit cooperates with a separate common distribution system to exchange heat with the heat transfer fluid in the primary refrigeration system.
  • the use of a separate common distribution system for the chiller unit is only necessary when the chiller unit is connected to more than one primary refrigeration systems.
  • the heat transfer fluid in the chiller refrigeration unit comprises glycol.
  • the differential temperature is T - Ts.p..
  • the controller prioritises the refrigeration capacity to those compartments having the greatest differential temperature.
  • the controller is arranged to place one or more compartments having a temperature outside said defined desired range of temperature for that compartment in a queue.
  • the controller is arranged to determine the waiting times of the one or more compartments in the queue and to prioritise available refrigeration capacity to those compartments in the queue based on their respective waiting times.
  • the refrigeration system is adapted to cool a sub-group of two compartments.
  • the refrigeration system in particular the compressor is sized to cool a sub-group of compartments in the temperature controlled apparatus at any one time.
  • the refrigeration capacity can be defined as the number of compartments that is able to be cooled at any one time, e.g. two compartments.
  • cooling in excess of three compartments runs the risk that the capacity of the refrigeration system has been exceeded resulting in inadequate cooling to each of the three compartments as a result of an inadequate supply of heat transfer fluid to each of the three compartments.
  • the controller determines the required refrigeration capacity by determining the number of compartments in a group that are calling for cooling and if the number of compartments calling for cooling is less than the predetermined number of compartments then this is indicative of refrigeration capacity being available.
  • the term "calling for cooling” represents operational status of the compartment. For example, when the compartment calls for cooling the operational status of the compartment becomes active as it attempts to draw heat transfer fluid to effect cooling of the compartment.
  • the temperature controlled storage apparatus comprises at least one valve for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the at least one compartment in each of the two or more storage spaces and wherein said controller is arranged to control the actuation of the valves for interrupting and re-establishing the flow of the heat transfer fluid between the lower limit and the upper limit of the temperature from the second temperature sensing device respectively to at least one compartment.
  • said upper limit is substantially -7°C and said lower limit is substantially -10°C.
  • the number of cooling "pulses" by interrupting and reestablishing the flow of the heat transfer fluid is dependent on whether the set point temperature measured from the first sensing device has been reached, i.e. whether the air temperature inside the compartment has reached its desired set point temperature.
  • the present invention provides a method of preparing a temperature controlled storage apparatus for the storage of one or more temperature sensitive items, comprising a controller arranged to controlling each of the one or more compartments of the at least one of the plurality of lockable storage spaces to store goods at at least chilled or frozen temperature in anticipation or preparation of demand.
  • the method further comprising the step of: i) automatically opening the programmable door of the allocated lockable storage space comprising the stored one or more temperature sensitive items; and/or ii) providing identification means of the allocated lockable storage space comprising the stored one or more temperature sensitive items.
  • the present invention provides a method of preparing temperature sensitive items for delivery to a temperature controlled apparatus, the method comprising the steps of:- i) receiving a user request for delivery of one or more temperature sensitive items; ii) determining the required temperature of the one or more temperature sensitive items; iii) placing the one or more temperature sensitive items in one or more containers of selected size such that the items in any one container may be exposed to a common temperature range without adverse effect; iv) before or after placing the one or more temperature sensitive items in one or more containers of selected size, determining availability at the temperature controlled apparatus of one or more of the compartments of the plurality of lockable storage spaces :- a) at or controllable to a temperature or temperatures suitable to receive the containers b) of suitable dimensions to receive the containers.
  • the compartments are of different size and the containers are of selected size to closely fit the width and/or depth of the compartments.
  • the containers are of selected size to closely fit the height of the compartments.
  • the containers are of a selected size to closely fit side by side to each other in the compartment.
  • the insulating panels 91 are only detachable using specialised tools.
  • the insulating panels 91 comprise insulating material (i.e. polystyrene) encapsulated in a stainless steel cover to ensure the surface of insulation panels 91 are easily cleanable so as to inhibit bacterial growth.
  • a compartment preferably the bottom compartment 30, may include a step 32 so as to offer an elevated shelf to the user. This minimizes the user's reach needed to access the furthermost parts of the compartment.
  • the door of the lockable storage space 22 is fitted with a digital locking mechanism. Further explanation of the working of the digital locking mechanism to permit access to the lockable storage space 22 is discussed below.
  • the pressure of the refrigerant exceeds a predetermined value and based on the pressure- temperature relationship according to Ideal Gas Law, the temperature of the refrigerant in the condenser rises proportionally, and prevents the gaseous refrigerant in the condenser from fully condensing.
  • a cooling fan 224b
  • the pressure of the refrigerant in the condenser drops so as to affect the flow of the refrigerant in the distribution network.
  • a three way valve 252 will divert the refrigerant flow towards the supplementary cooling circuit 250 for additional cooling.
  • the three way valve 252 may be set to divert refrigerant flow automatically if the refrigerant rises above a particular temperature or pressure set point. Sensors can be installed to measure the temperature or pressure from the condenser and to sense when the refrigerant does not reach a fully condensed state. Since uncondensed refrigerant exhibits a higher in-line pressure than a single phase liquid refrigerant, the use of high pressure set point to activate the three way valve 252 ensures the supplementary cooling circuit 250 are only used to condense gaseous refrigerant.
  • the heat transfer fluid in the chiller unit can be based on a much less demanding refrigerant such as glycol.
  • the chiller unit may be installed remotely to the locker module.
  • air cooled heat exchangers may be positioned away from the sheltered locker assembly that can aid heat dissipation, e.g. in a cooler environment.
  • supplementary cooling circuit 250 is ideal to provide additional cooling for the embodiment shown in Figure 4(f), where a refrigeration unit is provided for each of the locker modules.
  • the condenser 224 is sized to provide sufficient cooling capacity to cool and condense the refrigerant locally during normal operation, i.e. winter months. In this case the supplementary cooling circuit is made redundant. During summer months where the condenser 224 can no longer condense all of the gaseous refrigerant and is optionally sensed by one or more sensors, e.g. temperature or pressure, the three way valve 252 can divert the refrigerant to the supplementary heat exchanger 224.
  • a second secondary heat exchanger may be attached to the same or a different wall of the compartment 24, similarly connected to the heating fluid distribution system via the conduits 60.
  • the secondary heat e changer(s) may be placed adjacent to the interior of at least one wall of the compartment 24 to achieve a direct contact with the grocery goods placed within the compartment. This served to minimize the temperature difference across the walls of the compartment and prompts a more responsive temperature control.
  • the heat exchanger 68 used in the arrangement without a secondary system is also referred to as the secondary heat exchanger 68, even when a secondary heat distribution system is not used.
  • the secondary heat exchanger 68 in the example shown in Figure 7 is a heat exchanger coil commonly used in refrigerators. Heat is transferred through the walls of the compartments 24 via conduction and the amount of heat transfer is mainly governed by the quantity of heat transfer fluid circulating within the secondary heat exchanger 68.
  • the temperature of grocery placed within the compartment 24 is mainly controlled by a combination of heat conduction through at least one wall of the compartment, and natural convection of air within the compartment 24. Temperature control is provided by controlling the rate of flow of the heat transfer fluid within the secondary heat exchanger 68 by one or more control valves 66.
  • Air that is warmed or cooled in the interior of the compartment 24 by heat loss/heat gain of the compartment and its grocery contents is then drawn out of the compartment 24and passes over the heat exchanger 74 whereby it is respectively cooled or warmed as the case may be.
  • the flow path of air is indicated by the arrows shown in Figure 8, which transfers heat to or from the compartment 24 by forced convection.
  • Both a "cold” and a "hot” heat exchanger respectively connected to the cooling fluid and heating fluid distribution systems may be mounted across the duct 71 , e.g. in series. Alternatively, separate cold and hot flow paths may be integrated into the same secondary heat exchanger 74, which are connected to the cooling fluid distribution system 60a and the heating fluid distribution system 60b respectively.
  • the apparatus may be able to convert each of the compartments 24 for storing goods at a first temperature to a compartment 24 for storing goods at a second temperature: for example, for converting a compartment 24 that has been assigned for storing frozen goods to a compartment 24 for storing goods that requires a chilled or ambient or even elevated temperatures (such as for storing "hot" food).
  • the heating system 240 discussed above, the heat transfer fluid is heated to provide a temperature in the compartment concerned, required for storing goods at a chilled or ambient temperature. In the case of storing goods at a chilled temperature, the heat transfer fluid is heated to a temperature in the range between substantially 1°C to substantially 4 °C.
  • each compartment in a locker module has a primary heat exchanger.
  • the secondary heat exchanger or evaporator 68 is mounted to one or more exterior surfaces of the liner.
  • the secondary heat exchanger or evaporator 68 substantially covers the surface area of one or more exterior walls having the greatest surface area. This is to maximise the heat transfer area of the compartment.
  • the plate evaporator 460 is designed to wrap around at least one exterior wall of the liner of the compartment.
  • Fig. 9(i) shows a top plan view of the plate evaporator 460 in an unfolded state.
  • the evaporator comprises three portions, two foldable side portions 466, 468 either side of a middle portion 464, the middle 464 and each of the side portions 466, 468 comprises channels 462 for conveying refrigerant to and from the compressor.
  • the foldable side portions 466, 468 are delineated from the middle portion 464 by a line of weakness 470.
  • the line of weakness could be perforations or a weak point.
  • a portion is cut out at the junction between the middle portion and the side portion from the evaporator plate so as to leave bridge portions 472, 474 at the distal front and rear ends of the evaporator plate respectively.
  • the front bridge portion 472 near or adjacent the mouth of the compartment maintains the structural integrity of the side portion when folded and the rear bridge portion 474 comprises channels so as to provide the necessary fluid communication between the channels in the middle portion 464 and the side portions 466, 468.
  • the 90° bend enables the evaporator plate to accommodate insulation strips 84 described with reference to Fig. 9(c) below.
  • the thermal insulation strips surrounding the mouth of the compartment are formed with mitre joints so that any two strips join together at a substantially 90° angle.
  • the substantially 90° bend at the mouth of the compartment is able to accommodate the thermal insulation strips around the mouth of the compartment offering little gaps particularly at the junction between the middle portion and the side portion of the evaporator plate, i.e. it provides a perfect fit.
  • the application of heat also reduces the time of waiting for the temperature inside the compartment to rise when a higher temperature is required, e.g., to convert a compartment for storing frozen goods to a compartment for storing goods at a chilled or even ambient temperature or even regulating the temperature of the compartment for storing goods at chilled temperature when the external temperature is below freezing temperature.
  • the heater elements permit quick defrosting of ice built up around any of the inner walls of the compartment.
  • FIG. 9(1) Also shown in Fig. 9(1) are the inlet 480 and outlet 482 tubing from the condenser and to the compressor representing the refrigeration capillary tube 480 and the suction line 482 respectively merging into a single connector pipe 484 to form a suction line/capillary tube assembly 483. As shown in Fig. 9(1) the capillary tubing 480 enters inside the suction line/capillary tube assembly 483.
  • the suction line tube is assembled onto the connector, they are joined together, preferably by brazing or soldering or even crimping to provide a hermetic fluid/pressure tight seal.
  • the capillary tube 480 is inserted in a punched or drilled out aperture 486 in the connector tube and the capillary tube is brazed or welded in place at its point of entry.
  • the other end of the connector tube 484 comprising the capillary tube/suction line assembly is brazed or soldered onto the outlet and inlet of the channels from the evaporator plate respectively (see Fig. 9(m).
  • a bracket or clamp 488 supports the brazed or soldered joint on the evaporator plate.
  • the heating system By integrating the cooling channels and optionally, the heating system into the evaporator plate allows quick and easy assembly of the evaporator plate onto at least one wall of the liner forming the compartment. To ensure a good heat exchange between the evaporator plate and the compartment, maximum contact between the surface area of the evaporator plate and the walls of the compartment liner is necessary.
  • the evaporator plate is adhered onto at least one wall of the compartment.
  • the bottom face of the evaporator plate is covered with a layer of adhesive, e.g. a pressure sensitive adhesive, and the adhesive is protected from contamination by a release paper such as a silicone lined paper, e.g. Kraft paper.
  • the process of application of the evaporator plate comprises the steps of removing the release paper so as to expose the underside adhesive and initially adhering the middle portion 464 of the plate onto a top or bottom wall of the compartment liner. Subsequent to adhering the middle portion of the evaporator plate onto the compartment wall, the side portions 266, 268 of the evaporator plate are then bent or folded around and adhered onto the adjacent side walls of the compartment liner.
  • the advantage of this process is that it provides a one step and cost effective mounting process of the evaporator plate onto the compartment liner.
  • a heating element 69b is placed into the insulation strip 84 to evaporate any moisture build-up.
  • Actuation of the heating element 69b can be controlled by providing one or more temperature measuring devices for measuring the outside air temperature and correlating the outside air temperature to the dew point temperature at a given relative humidity. If the dew point temperature is above the temperature inside the compartment, particularly around the mouth of the compartment (in the vicinity of the thermal break or the thermal break itself), then this may be an indication that the conditions are ideal for the water vapour in the air to condense around and/or in the mouth of the compartment.
  • the relationship between the dewpoint temperature and the outside air temperature at a given relative humidity can be obtained from known psychrometric charts.
  • the relative humidity will vary from season to season and from country to country.
  • the relative humidity in the United Kingdom approximately varies between 60% to 80%, and to a first approximation the average relative humidity can be taken to be 70%.
  • the dewpoint temperature at which water vapour will condense is about 15°C.
  • Each of the compartments within a storage space is preferably atmospherically sealed from the others at the door, with the use of sealing members.
  • the sealing members are located on the door and/or adjacent the compartments, i.e. adjacent the mouth of the cavity.
  • the sealing members can be formed from a single piece of material surrounding each of the compartments, or it can be formed by separate pieces of material for each sealing a compartment.
  • the sealing members can be any seals known to the person skilled in the art, for example gaskets and hollow tubes made of foam or rubber, either magnetic or non-magnetic. A magnetic seal is not necessary, as the door will normally be held shut by the remotely programmable locking mechanism.
  • the sealing members also prevent rain water ingress when the door is closed.
  • the back face 502 of the thermal break is profiled to comprise two engaging portions or limbs 504, 506. Both engaging portions are profiled to flex so as to enable the thermal break to be assembled onto an edge of the compartment, in particular the edge of a door frame.
  • the first engaging portion 504 is profiled to engage with a door divider 508 separating two adjacent compartments in the locker module and the second engaging portion 506 is profiled to engage with the compartment edge. Both engaging portions are resiliently connected 510, 512 to the back face 502 of the thermal break.
  • the substantially “L” shaped profile comprises a tail end 526 that cooperates with the connector to prevent the substantially “L” shaped profile from pivoting about its fulcrum.
  • the connector once inserted into the connector receiving portion 522 also prevents the first engaging portion from pivoting about its connection 510 and thereby, providing additional locking of the first engaging portion into engagement with the edge of the door divider.
  • the doors are insulated by an insulation layer.
  • the insulation can be of any suitable type applied or installed by any suitable method known to the person skilled in the art, for example, mineral wools, polystyrene, foam insulation or a vacuum chamber.
  • the insulation layer is sandwiched and sealed between metal claddings with a peripheral thermal break, and the insulation layer is sufficiently thick to ensure minimal heat conduction.
  • grooves can be formed in the cavity liner corresponding to the shape of the secondary heat exchanger 68, for placing the secondary heat exchanger into.
  • An alternative method for maximising the surface area contact includes fabricating the channels with a D shaped cross-section as shown in Figure 10 such that the straight or flat portion of the channels is able to lie substantially flat against the cavity liner.
  • a recess 86 can also be formed into the cavity liner of the compartment adjacent and opposite each channel 68 to provide a localised region for ice build-up.
  • At least one temperature sensing device 88 is attached onto the exterior surface on the liner of each cavity, as shown in the example given in Figure 1 1 (a).
  • the temperature sensing device is preferably a thermistor such as 10k NTC sensors but it can be any type of sensor known to the person skilled in the art, for example thermocouples, RTDs, thermostats and infrared sensors.
  • the temperature sensing device 88 is placed at an equal distance between two channels 68 to avoid measurement of the temperature of the heat transfer fluid if it is placed too close to any one particular channel resulting in a temperature measurement non-responsive to the temperature of the interior volume of the cavity.
  • a retainer 87 is used to ensure proper alignment of the channels 68 and the temperature sensing device 88 and other cabling with respect to each other.
  • the at least one temperature sensing device 88 is attached to the interior surface of the cavity liner, in order to achieve a more accurate measurement of air temperature within the cavity.
  • a retainer or other fastening means such as positioning clips (not shown) may be used for securing the temperature sensing device 88.
  • a fastening band or strap is used to secure the secondary heat exchangers 68 around one or more exterior surfaces of the cavity liner by virtue of securing the retainer 87 to the exterior of the liner, as shown in Figure 9(g).
  • the assembly is placed inside a larger mould 90 whilst ensuring that the open end of the cavity remains exposed and insulation material is injection moulded in the gap formed between the cavity liner and the interior surface of the mould so as to partially embed the secondary heat exchanger 68 and/or electric heating elements 69 and/or cabling within the insulation material whilst ensuring that the connection points to the secondary heat exchanger 68 and/or the electric heating elements 69 are left exposed.
  • Figure 11(b) when the insulation has cured, the former and mould are removed from the assembly so revealing the finished compartment.
  • each compartment module comprises a slave PCB 89 for carrying out active temperature control in the associated compartment.
  • the temperature sensing device 88 provides instantaneous temperature readout to the slave PCB 89.
  • the slave PCB compares the difference between the instantaneous temperature measured by the temperature sensing device 88 and a set point specified by the temperature control module.
  • the slave PCB carries out temperature adjustment using any methods described earlier, e.g. controlling the heat transfer fluid flow and/or amount of air circulation.
  • the slave PCB 89 may communicate with the temperature control module, which directly operates the valves and/or the fans for temperature control.
  • the system aims to keep this temperature differential between the air temperature inside the compartment and the wall temperature as small as possible by monitoring the temperature readings from both temperature sensing devices, 88a and 88b and controlling the rate at which the compartment cools so as to establish an equilibrium state or as close as possible during every cooling step between the inside air temperature and the wall, each time the system calls from more "cooling".
  • the system via the slave PCB, calls for cooling by operating the valves to control the flow of the refrigerant to the compartment in small increments so as to allow the internal air temperature of the compartment to "catch up" with the wall temperature of the compartment, i.e. the system "pulses" the cooling in small steps.
  • the "pulses" of cooling is set in the controller by having an upper differential temperature, T up by which the valves are opened to allow the flow of refrigerant and a lower differential temperature, Ti ower by which the valves are closed to interrupt the flow of the refrigerant.
  • T up and Tiower may be any temperature depending on the cooling condition required. For example when a chilled storage temperature (i.e., T S P ⁇ 4°C) is required, the upper differential temperature, T up , is set to substantially -7°C and the lower differential temperature, T] 0wer , is set to substantially - 10°C.
  • T S P ⁇ 4°C a chilled storage temperature
  • T] 0wer is set to substantially - 10°C.
  • each pulsing step there is an inherent delay to allow the evaporator temperature to warm up by absorbing heat from the air inside the compartment.
  • the smaller the pulsing steps the smaller the differential temperature and thus, the shorter the delay time and vice versa.
  • such "pulsing" temperature control is not adopted in compartments for storage of frozen goods since the said frozen goods are not susceptible to surface freezing.
  • the "pulsing" temperature control described may be applied to prevent excessive cooling of compartment walls.
  • the temperature sensing device 88a is placed as far away from the heat exchanger or evaporator as possible.
  • the first temperature sensing device 88a is placed on the rear wall of the compartment opposite the door of the corresponding lockable storage space and slightly protruding to provide a good representation of the air temperature inside the compartment and the second temperature sensing device 88b is placed adjacent the heat exchanger of the compartment.
  • the converse is equally applicable when warming the compartment, e.g. preparing a compartment at frozen temperature for a delivery of goods at ambient temperature or maintaining the compartment at a chilled temperature when the outside temperature is below freezing temperature.
  • one or more electric heaters are "pulsed" so that the temperature of the air inside the compartment rises to its desired set point temperature.
  • T up there is an upper differential temperature, T up , by which the electric heaters are switched off and a lower differential temperature, Ti ower , by which the electric heaters are switched on.
  • T up In this case, as the walls of the compartment heats up to the upper differential temperature, T up tone the electric heater(s) are switched off to wait for the air inside the compartment to absorb heat from the wall of the compartment and thus, cool down to the lower differential temperature, Ti ower , before the electric heater(s) are switched on again. This cycle is repeated until the inside compartment air warms to the desired set point temperature (.e.g. ambient temperature). As the walls of the compartment adjacent the electric heaters gradually heats up in comparison to the air inside the compartment, there is an inherent differential temperature between the wall temperature of the compartment and the inside air temperature. Thus, any delicate food products (e.g. fruit) would "scorch" when in contact with any excessive heated wall of the compartment.
  • desired set point temperature e.g. ambient temperature
  • defrosting is periodically carried out by heating the frozen compartments 24 for a short period of time.
  • the accumulated ice melts into liquid, and subsequently flows along a sloped base 76 towards a drain 78 situated at the back or front of the locker module 20, as shown in Figure 8.
  • the drain 78 also clears spillage and rain water ingress, and so prevents flooding and minimises damage or bacterial spoilage to the stored groceries. Locating the drain towards the front of the compartment permits regular clearing of any accumulated water by service personal every time the storage spaces are inspected or when deliveries made.
  • the cooling duty to each of the lockable storage spaces (22) in any given locker module may vary significantly throughout the different stages of operation. For example, while minimal cooling is required to maintain the compartments in the lockable storage space (22) at a steady temperature, the demand of heat transfer fluid reaches its peak during the preparation phase, i.e., cooling from an ambient to frozen temperature.
  • the refrigeration system are not sized to provide simultaneous cooling to all of the compartments, instead they are only designed to handle a fraction of the maximum load, so as to ensure the system remains efficient during normal operation, i.e. minor point adjustment and temperature holding.
  • this puts an increase burden on the refrigeration system to deliver the relevant cooling to each of the compartments.
  • the primary system acts as a refrigeration system that feeds refrigerant directly to the compartments as described with reference to Figs. 4c to 4g.
  • the pressure difference of the refrigerant in the conduit or piping of the distribution system supplying each of the compartments and the refrigerant in the condenser is critical.
  • a metering device such as an expansion valve or a capillary system allows the refrigerant to lower its pressure so that the liquid refrigerant vapourises in the conduit or piping (evaporator) of the distribution system supplying each of the compartments. This change of state results in the cooling effect as is commonly known in the art.
  • Stage 1 to 2 represents the compressor stage and is where the refrigerant in gas form is compressed causing a rise in pressure and thus, enthalpy which equals the energy put into the refrigerant gas by the compressor.
  • Stage 2 to 3 the hot superheated refrigerant gas enters the condenser and is where the gas is condensed to a liquid. In reality the refrigerant exits in the condenser in liquid/vapour form.
  • Stage 3 to 4 Still at high pressure, the liquid/vapour passes through a metering device (e.g. capillary tube) causing the pressure of the liquid/vapour refrigerant to be reduced without any significant change in enthalpy.
  • a metering device e.g. capillary tube
  • the refrigerant pressure is at the high pressure side, Phigh of the evaporator and once it has passed through the metering device, the pressure drops to the low pressure side, Pi ow .
  • the extent of the pressure difference between the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the metering device is thus dependent upon the degree of the constriction provided by the metering device whereby increasing this constriction offered by the metering device, increases the pressure difference across the capillary tube and vice versa.
  • the size of constriction may be varied by a pressure regulating valve in place of the metering device; such pressure regulating valve known to the person in the art, for example needle valves or poppet valves.
  • the degree of constriction will also affect the mass flow rate of the refrigerant through the metering device. By increasing the constriction offered by the capillary tube, reduces the mass flow rate of the refrigerant.
  • Cooling a group of large number of compartments will have a significant impact on the cooling performance since the manifold distributes refrigerant to each of the compartments in a parallel configuration.
  • increasing the number of flow passages reduces the supplied refrigerant pressure distribution network and thus, the rate by which the amount of refrigerant is evaporated to each of the compartments.
  • the attainable refrigerant temperature in each of the individual compartments is accordingly reduced, and so greatly affecting the heat transfer efficiency.
  • the number of metering devices servicing each of the compartments also increases. The greater the number of metering devices has the effect of reducing total constriction offered by all of the combined metering devices.
  • a cooling sequence is implemented whereby the supply of refrigerant are limited to cool a predetermined number of compartments or sub-group of compartments, e.g. single compartment or a pair of compartments, at any given time by closing one or more valves, as shown in Figure 6(g).
  • a predetermined number of compartments or sub-group of compartments e.g. single compartment or a pair of compartments
  • the selected compartments may be cooled until the temperature has reached its desired set point before the heat transfer fluid is distributed to the next set of compartments along the cooling sequence by closing its corresponding valves and opening the next set of valves in the sequence as shown in Figure 6(h).
  • Cooling each of the compartments individually until they reached their desired set point temperature before moving onto the next compartment in the sequence in the locker module would put a lot of strain on the compressor and therefore, shorten its lifespan since the compressor would have to work harder, repeatedly cooling each of the compartments to its desired set point temperature.
  • the time that has elapsed cooling all of the compartments in the locker module in turn until the temperature of each of the compartments has reached its desired set point temperature in sequence can be significant, e.g. approximately 20 minutes. This time delay may run the risk that the first cooled compartment in the sequence has been left waiting too long before seeing a repeat cooling activity which may result in its internal temperature to rise beyond its set point temperature and thus, any products in the compartments would be compromised.
  • the cooling sequence may be prioritised to favour compartments that has a higher priority and may be defined according to criteria such as the degree of cooling required, e.g. temperature difference between the desired set point temperature and the compartment temperature, as well as the delivery schedule, i.e. the occupancy of the compartments and the time remaining until the next delivery.
  • the prioritising step allows the lockable temperature controlled apparatus to take advantage of the limited cooling capacity of the refrigeration system and therefore, is energy efficient particularly during the initial preparation phase of the compartment, i.e. when the compartment is calling for cooling. This is because the initial preparation phase of the compartments represents only a small portion of the cooling duty for any particular compartment.
  • the compressor is sized for a predetermined number of compartments or sub group of compartments in the locker module, in this example, two compartments, at any given time, and if there are only two compartments calling for cooling and thus, when one of the compartments has reached its desired set point temperature, the valve to that compressor is closed. There then becomes an overcapacity in the refrigerant system since the remaining one compartment is still calling for cooling. In this situation, the bypass valve is activated to bypass some of the refrigerant to the compressor so as to maintain a balanced refrigeration pressure until the only compartment calling for cooling has reached its desired set point temperature or an additional compartment begins to call for cooling.
  • the bypass valve is activated to bypass some of the refrigerant so as to maintain a balanced refrigerant pressure. Further explanation of the operation of the bypass system is discussed below. Since the refrigeration system has only sufficient "capacity" to cool a limited number of compartments at any one time in a locker module, further demand for cooling additional compartments would necessitate that the compartments be placed in a queueing system. By placing one or more of the available compartments which are "calling for cooling" in a queue (those compartments that want to be "calling for cooling”), then when capacity becomes available the system can direct the cooling to the additional available compartments in the queue.
  • the system When there is no capacity in the refrigeration system, the system places the available compartments in a queue and prioritises the supply of refrigerant to the compartments in the queue by controlling the operation of the valves to the corresponding compartments depending on their urgency criteria which can be either their temperature requirement and/or the length of time the compartment has been waiting in the queue.
  • the system monitors the internal temperature of the available compartments and if there is more than one compartment available, the system chooses the available compartment that closely matches the required set point temperature for storage of chilled or frozen goods. Choosing the availability of compartments also takes into account those compartments that are under an alarm condition and simply ignores those compartments. Referring to the example above where there is a first available compartment having a first measured internal temperature of T
  • the system chooses the available compartment that has been waiting the longest.
  • the first available compartment has been waiting for time, t-ti
  • the second available compartment has been waiting for time, t-t 2 . Since the waiting time, t-ti, for the first available compartment is greater than the waiting time, t-t 2 , for the second available compartment, the valve to the first available compartment will open first to allow the flow of refrigerant to that compartment before the second available compartment is cooled.
  • Fig. 11(d) is a flow diagram showing the sequence of steps in prioritising the supply of refrigerant and thus, cooling to each of the compartments in a locker module according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig 11(d) shows two compartments (CI and C2), the same steps are used to check the availability of the other compartments in the locker module.
  • the operational steps in all of the compartments in a locker module are identical as the system runs through all of the available compartments in a locker module and decides which one of them is available for cooling.
  • CI and C2 Only two or subgroup of compartments (CI and C2) are shown in Fig. 1 1 (d). Identical procedural steps apply to successive compartments to the right of Fig.
  • Fig. 1 1 (d) the system decides 190a if Compartment 1 (CI) and/or Compartment 2 (C2) are available for cooling and so on.
  • the system begins by checking whether Compartment 1 is currently operational 190a, i.e. it is under a cooling regime. If Compartment 1 is currently operational, the system then checks 190c whether the temperature of CI has reached its desired set point temperature, T S .P . . If the answer is "yes”, then the cooling to CI is stopped 190e by closing the corresponding valve to CI . If the answer is "no", then the system decides whether the set time period for cooling for CI has elapsed 190d.
  • cooling is periodically shared between a predetermined number of compartments (in this example two compartments, CI and C2) for a predetermined amount of time. This is in comparison to both compartments sharing the refrigeration capacity at the same time.
  • a predetermined number of compartments in this example two compartments, CI and C2
  • each of the two compartments gets a "burst" of cooling for a predetermined amount of time before it switches to the next compartment even though neither of the compartments has reached its desired set point temperature.
  • This sequential cycling of the call for cooling is repeated until one or both compartments (in this case, CI and C2) reaches their desired set point temperature, i.e.
  • valve to the refrigerant for CI opens for a predetermined amount of time before it closes and opens the valve to C2 for the same amount of time before it switches back again to CI .
  • the valves to two compartments are each periodically opened and closed for four minutes. If the set time period has elapsed Cyes), the system stops cooling CI and switches to cooling C2 until the set time period has elapsed for C2 and so on. If the set time period has not lapsed (i.e. "no") for CI , then the system continues to call for cooling until either the temperature of CI has reached the set point temperature or its set time period has elapsed.
  • the controller moves onto the next available compartment that has been waiting in the queue. In all cases, cooling is carried out to a predetermined number of compartments, e.g. pairs of compartments, at any one time.
  • the controller activates the corresponding valves to provide cooling to the first two compartments for a period of time. Once the period of time has lapsed, cooling is stopped. The controller then decides the next two compartments in greatest need of cooling based on the above criteria. The controller activates the next two valves to provide cooling to the next two corresponding compartments for a defined period of time. This cycle repeats until the cooling requirement in all but one compartment is satisfied, i.e. the desired temperature is reached in all other compartments so that a pair of compartments calling for cooling cannot be established, i.e. there is over capacity in the refrigeration system.
  • the system checks 190f whether the temperature of CI is above desired set point temperature. If the answer is "yes" (i.e. the temperature of CI is above the desired set point temperature), then the system checks 190g whether there are already two compartments operational (.i.e. cooling). If there are already two compartments operational, then the system places CI in a queue until when refrigeration capacity becomes available and checks 190h whether the timer for determining the waiting time of CI has been started. If the timer has not been started, then the system starts the timer 190i to determine the waiting time for CI . The system then repeats the checking process for the other compartments in the locker module.
  • the system checks 190j whether there is one compartment in the locker module operational (calling for cooling). This is to check whether or not all of the compartments in the locker module are available. If there is no one compartment under a cooling cycle or phase (all of the compartments are available for cooling), then there is excess capacity in the refrigeration system since the compressor continues to circulate (draw) refrigerant but if all of the valves to the compartments are closed, no refrigerant is able to be circulated into the compressor and an alarm condition will sound. In reality, the LP pressure will activate the compressor to stop.
  • a low pressure sensor switch (LP sensor) is activated to cause the compressor to stop prematurely when the refrigerant pressure drops below a predetermined value and preventing the only one compartment reacing its desired set point temperature.
  • a bypass valve 66b (see Fig. 4g) as discussed above is introduced amongst the series of valves 66 so as to bypass 190n the refrigerant past the compartments and keep the refrigeration cycle continuous.
  • the system is set up or programmed to supply refrigerant to two compartments at any one time in a periodic or sequential or cyclic manner as discussed above.
  • the bypass valve is activated to balance or maintain the refrigerant pressure in the refrigeration system.
  • the cooling cycle is continued until the compartment calling for cooling has reached its desired set point temperature.
  • both the bypass valve and the valve to the compartment is closed so preventing further flow of refrigerant to the compartment.
  • the compressor continues to run evacuating the suction line 65, lowering the refrigerant pressure to a point where the LP sensor switch is activated and stops the compressor until the temperature within a compartment rises above the desired set point temperature and therefore, calling for cooling.
  • the suction line pressure increases due to the flow of refrigerant.
  • the pressure valve is located close to or adjacent the suction line accumulator (65) (see Fig. 4f).
  • a feedback loop from the pressure transducer can be fed to the controller to vary the setting of the choke valve and thereby, change the mass flow rate of the refrigerant to the compressor. If the pressure as measured from the pressure transducer drops too far below a predetermined value, then the controller can operate the bypass valve to open further so as to increase the mass flow rate of the refrigerant and thereby, increase the pressure on the low pressure side of the evaporator until it reaches a predetermined value.
  • the controller can operate the bypass valve to constrict the flow of refrigerant further and thereby, drop the pressure on the low pressure side.
  • This dynamic control of the bypass valve ensures that the pressure on the low pressure side of the evaporator is within a predetermined range so as to ensure adequate cooling to the compartments but yet not overburden the compressor.
  • CI is checked for availability. The system then decides 1901 whether CI has the largest temperature differential ( ⁇ ) between the actual measured temperature of the compartment to the desired set point temperature in comparison to the other available compartments in the locker module.
  • CI has a large temperature differential ( ⁇ )
  • CI has an immediate requirement for cooling than the rest of the available compartments and the system stops and resets the timer 190r for the next available compartment and starts the cooling process of CI .
  • CI has the same 190m differential temperature to the rest of the compartments, then the system checks 190p whether CI has been waiting the longest (i.e. having the highest Call For Cooling CFC value/time). If CI has been waiting the longest, then CI is prepped up for cooling by stopping and resetting the timer 190r.
  • the controller of the present invention can share a portion of the refrigeration capacity to regulate the temperature of the occupied compartments so as to keep the occupied goods fresh for pick-up.
  • the controller diverts some of the refrigeration capacity to the occupied compartments by opening their corresponding valves to allow the flow of refrigerant. This does not affect the cooling of the other compartments in the preparation phase in anticipation of demand, if there is sufficient refrigeration capacity in the system. However, if the refrigeration capacity is already being over utilised and therefore, has reached its limit by the unoccupied compartments being prepared for cooling, any further opening of valves to cool the occupied compartments would result in an increase in pressure on the low pressure side of the evaporator and therefore, a drop in cooling efficiency of the refrigeration system.
  • the controller diverts the cooling from one or more of the unoccupied (in preparation phase) compartments by closing its corresponding valves and opening the valves to the occupied compartments in order so as to maintain the refrigerant pressure on the low pressure within acceptable limits and ultimately preserve food safety.
  • the temperature inside the occupied compartments must be regulated very close to the desired set point temperature to prevent the melting of the ice cream.
  • this could be either by supplying the surplus refrigeration capacity to the occupied compartment or diverting some of the cooling from the unoccupied compartments in the preparation phase to the occupied compartments.
  • the controller diverts the cooling by closing the valve to the unoccupied compartments so as to free up refrigeration capacity to the occupied compartments.
  • the diversion will manifest in a delay for cooling of one or more of the unoccupied compartments that are calling for cooling in preparation for a delivery.
  • this sharing of the refrigeration capacity to maintain the temperature of the occupied compartments is very small and will not significantly affect the cooling regime of the available, unoccupied compartments.
  • the temperature of one or more occupied compartments fluctuates significantly, e.g.
  • the door to the occupied compartments is inadvertently opened and closed after realising that the compartment is occupied causing the inside air temperature of the compartment to rise significantly beyond its desired set point temperature.
  • the controller would prioritise the cooling to this compartment since this compartment would exhibit a greater temperature differential from the desired set point temperature. This may cause an additional delay or disrupt the cooling pattern of the unoccupied compartments that are being prepared for a delivery of goods.
  • the refrigeration capacity can be shared amongst several compartments from neighbouring locker modules, i.e. from the refrigeration unit in each of the bank of locker modules is shared amongst several compartments from neighbouring locker modules via a common distribution system.
  • the controller can tap into the refrigeration unit from neighbouring locker modules that has excess refrigeration capacity.
  • the controller would seek any spare refrigeration capacity from neighbouring locker modules so as to divert the spare refrigeration capacity to those compartments that are calling for cooling.
  • the controller periodically checks the temperature of the occupied compartments so as to make sure that the inside air temperature is maintained or regulated at its desired set point temperature and decides whether cooling of the unoccupied compartments that are calling for cooling can be diverted for a period of time to regulate the temperature of the occupied compartments.
  • Prioritising and sharing the refrigerant amongst several compartments depending upon the available refrigeration capacity from one or more locker modules can be controlled by fuzzy logic.
  • fuzzy logic can be used to close the valve to the compartment if the refrigeration capacity becomes too low.
  • the controller opens the valve to the refrigerant to continue the cooling.
  • the pressure on the low pressure of the evaporator can be used as a measure of the availability of refrigeration capacity. A too low pressure on the low pressure side could indicate that there is refrigeration capacity available.
  • the refrigerant can be diverted to a compartment that is calling for cooling.
  • cooling is stopped 190e for CI and the system moves onto check the cooling of C2 and so on with the rest of the available compartments.
  • cooling 190j following cooling CI 190q, as there free capacity, the system moves onto to check whether C2 is cooling and so on with the rest of the available compartments.
  • any such computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s).
  • These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or other programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture which implements the functions specified in the flowchart block(s).
  • the instructions when executed, transform the special purpose hardware into a tool for computing, controlling and/or tracking [compartment temperature, prioritizing compartments based on the availability, condition etc].
  • the tool may provide a controller to prioritize the availability of compartment depending on the refrigeration capacity in a given locker module.
  • the compressor is sized to provide refrigerant capacity to a limited number of compartments.
  • the refrigerant capacity is related to the cooling duty of the refrigeration system, i.e.
  • the system of the present invention can determine the number of compartments in a locker module that can be prepared for storage of grocery by determining the refrigerant capacity in a quantitative manner.
  • the refrigerant capacity can be controlled by monitoring the refrigerant pressure from the Low Pressure (LP) Switch.
  • LP Low Pressure
  • the refrigerant pressure, Pi measured by the LP Switch would be less than if there was a greater amount of demand being placed on the refrigeration system.
  • the refrigerant pressure, P 2 as measured by the LP switch would be greater than P
  • a controller can determine the extent or the availability of refrigerant capacity. Knowing the refrigerant pressure, P max , when the refrigeration system is at full capacity, which is substantially constant for a fixed speed compressor, each time a compartment is calling for cooling, the system via the controller can determine the availability of refrigerant capacity by determining present refrigerant pressure and correlating this pressure value to P max . In all cases, the system aims to maintain a balanced refrigerant pressure.
  • the above system prioritises the cooling and thus, the distribution of the refrigerant capacity to the compartments when preparing available compartments to store goods (chilled or frozen) in a given locker module, the same logic system applies to prioritising the distribution of the refrigerant capacity to maintain or regulate the temperature of the occupied compartments.
  • the controller of the present invention shares a portion of the refrigerant capacity to regulate the temperature of the occupied compartments so as to keep the occupied goods fresh for pick-up.
  • the controller diverts some of the refrigerant capacity to the occupied compartments by opening their corresponding valves to allow the flow of refrigerant. This does not affect the cooling of the other compartments in the locker module, if there is sufficient refrigerant capacity in the system, e.g. only a limited number of unoccupied compartments are being prepared for cooling.
  • the controller diverts the cooling from one or more of the unoccupied (preparation) compartments by closing its corresponding valves and opening the valves to the occupied compartments in order to maintain refrigerant capacity to the occupied compartments and ultimately preserve food safety.
  • the temperature inside the occupied compartments must be regulated very close to the desired set point temperature to prevent the ice cream melting.
  • the controller diverts the cooling to the occupied compartments and prioritises the cooling of the occupied compartments based on their: i) differential temperature between the actual temperature of the compartment and the desired set point temperature; or ii) timer value based on the counting clock that is initialised when the "call for cooling" for the occupied compartment is initiated.
  • the controller diverts the cooling by closing the valve to the unoccupied compartments so as to free up refrigerant capacity to the occupied compartments.
  • the diversion will manifest in a delay for cooling of one or more of the unoccupied compartments that are calling for cooling in preparation for a delivery.
  • this sharing of the refrigerant capacity to maintain the temperature of the occupied compartments is very small and will not significantly affect the cooling regime of the available, unoccupied compartments.
  • the temperature of one or more occupied compartments can fluctuate significantly, e.g. the door to the occupied compartments is inadvertently opened and closed after realising that the compartment is occupied causing the inside air temperature of the compartment to rise significantly beyond its desired set point temperature.
  • Access to the lockable storage space is controlled or governed by an access control module.
  • Figure 12 (a)-(c) illustrates the operation of the access control module.
  • the access control module 40 communicates with the central control system 100 at a delivery centre (e.g. supermarket or hypermarket) via communication module 101 and grants access to the lockable storage spaces 22 for authorized users, i.e. courier 102 and customer 104.
  • each of the locker modules comprise a controller (e.g. PCB controller) for controlling the operation of the valves and thus, the flow of refrigerant to one or more compartments that are calling for cooling as well as prioritising the cooling of the occupied or unoccupied compartments depending on the availability of refrigeration capacity, i.e.
  • the access control module Based on instructions from the central control system, the access control module communicates with the controller located at the locker module to operate the valves according to the temperature requirements of one or more compartments in anticipation of demand from the delivery centre. Depending upon the number of compartments that are already calling for cooling and the demand from the delivery centre, the access control module and/or the controller can place one or more compartments in a locker module in a queueing system in preparation for when one or more compartments have reached their desired set point temperature freeing up refrigeration capacity.
  • Access to each lockable storage space 22 is governed electronically by locking and unlocking the lockable storage space, upon verification of a user identity at a local user interface or graphical user interface 42 located at the access control module 40.
  • the digital locking mechanism can be any mechanism known to the person skilled in the art, for example solenoid operated deadbolts or electromagnetic locks.
  • the access control module 40 also monitors the status of each compartment 24 and feeds the status information to the central control system 100. Examples of status information include but are not limited to temperature, valve operation, alarm condition of the compartments, occupancy or size of each compartment 24 etc. However, it is also permissible in the present invention that some of the status information can be determined or controlled by the central control system 100, e.g. occupancy of the compartment 24. For example, a record of such status may be maintained at the central control system without such monitoring. As such the information regarding storage space vacancy and compartment temperature are used in assigning compartments for subsequent deliveries.
  • the central control system 100 located remotely from the storage apparatus 10, is responsible for allocating the lockable storage spaces 22 for receiving goods 106 in anticipation of demand from the delivery centre, as illustrated in Figure 12(a). Based on the status information of the lockable storage spaces 22, the central control system 100 is able to allocate vacant or available compartments 24 to a number of grocery deliveries or consignments 106 according to their size and storage temperature requirement and demand, and consequently produce a schedule. In an event that the lockable storage spaces 22 at a particular temperature are fully occupied, the schedule can favourably select one or more compartments 24 which offers the least switch over temperature change and if necessary, places that compartment in a queue. For example when selecting a compartment 24 for storage of frozen goods, the schedule will identify the compartment which offers the smallest change in temperature.
  • the schedule will opt for a compartment 24 that was previously used to store goods at a chilled temperature as opposed at an ambient temperature.
  • the central control system 100 can also instruct the heating system 240 discussed above to defrost a compartment 24, e.g. in an event where the schedule requires a changeover from a compartment 24 that was previously used to store frozen goods to a compartment 24 that requires a chilled or ambient temperature or simply to defrost a compartment 24, i.e. to remove the excessive build-up of ice on the internal walls of the compartment.
  • Figure 13 illustrates a typical layout of the compartments in any one day.
  • the system consists of an access control module 40 and refrigeration plant module 50.
  • the access control module is conveniently located at the centre of the system.
  • the controller for controlling the operation of the valves can be conveniently located at the top of the locker module, i.e. in the same location as the refrigeration unit as shown in Fig. 14(f).
  • Each compartment is represented by a rectangular box and is capable of switching between ambient, chilled and frozen storage temperature.
  • a storage space accessed via a given remotely programmable insulated lockable door 18 consists of three compartments each operating at a distinct storage temperature (ambient, chilled and frozen temperature).
  • Figure 13 shows seven purchase orders (Orders 1 to 7).
  • Order 1 and 2 each occupies the storage space (22a and 22b) of the entire locker module (20a and 20b) having compartments for storage of chilled, frozen and ambient goods.
  • locker modules 20c and 20d each comprise two storage spaces (22c, 22d for locker module 20c; 22e and 22f for locker module 20d).
  • Each of the storage spaces (22c to 22f) in locker modules 20c and 20d consists of three smaller compartments for storage of chilled, frozen and ambient goods.
  • the refrigeration plant module 50 is combined with a storage space 22g having compartments for storage of chilled, frozen and ambient goods in the locker module 20e.
  • a relatively large customer order may occupy the entire locker module 22a, 22b.
  • the central control module may assign smaller orders (Order 3-7) to the smaller storage spaces (22c to 22g).
  • the central control system maps the availability of vacant compartments or storage spaces to the order demand. This can also take into consideration allocating the appropriate compartments based on temperature storage requirements and whether, there is enough capacity in a particular locker module. If no compartments at the right temperature are available, the central control system can remotely control the temperature of the chosen compartment via a communication link to the appropriate temperature control module or places the order in a queue until a compartment becomes available.
  • any shelving used to separate the goods in a compartment should not occupy too much space.
  • the shelving should be easy to clean, hygienic, allows access to the interior of the compartment without obstruction, is secure to prevent the shelf being dislodged or inadvertently removed and finally, easily adjustable to allow larger items or items of varying sizes to be stored in the compartmental space.
  • Figure 13(b) shows a shelving unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the shelving unit 140 comprises a moveable shelf 142 contained and supported by a frame 144.
  • the shelving unit 140 is fabricated from bent wire (e.g. metal or plastic).
  • the shelf 142 is fabricated from coated steel wire (e.g. Rilsan coated mild steel).
  • the corner of the shelf is adapted with slideable fixing points 146 for containing and securing the shelf 142 to each leg of the frame.
  • the fixing points 146 are bent to form corner rings so as to permit the corner rings to slide along each leg of the frame 144.
  • each leg of the frame along its length is bent to form resting points or "joggles" 144b for the shelf 142. This is created by inwardly bending a portion of the length of each leg of the frame so as to create an inward upper portion 146b for the shelf to travel vertically and an outward lower portion 146c that is offset the upper portion.
  • the upper portion 146b and the lower portion 146c meet at the "joggle" points 144b for resting the shelf.
  • the length of the upper and lower portion and thus, the height of the "joggle” points from the foot of the frame dictate the vertical resting point of the shelf.
  • the lower portion is sufficiently offset the upper portion to butt up against the walls of the compartment and thus, conserve space within a given compartmental space.
  • the frame is formed with securing points 148, preferably to the legs of the frame as shown in Fig. 13b.
  • the securing points are formed as eyelets to allow the frame to be securely fixed to at least one wall of the compartment.
  • the shelf is removably attached to a cross member 146b formed in the uppermost portion of the frame.
  • the shelf or equally the cross member 146b comprises one or more magnets to maintain the shelf in the raised position.
  • the front end of the shelf is supported by dowels 602 located on opposing sidewalls of the compartment and the rear end of the shelf is supported by at least one support rod 604 fixed to at least one inner wall of the compartment.
  • one end 606 of the support rod 604 is fixed to the roof of the compartment and the other end 608 is fixed to the inner wall of the compartment.
  • the support rod 604 extends through the shelf 142 so as to permit the shelf to be moveable along the support rod.
  • the shelf is grated or fabricated as a wire mesh or wire grille so as to enable the support rod to extend through or thread the shelf (see Fig. 13(e)).
  • the height or level of the shelf in the compartment is thus determined by the location of the support dowels 602 and the length of the support rod.
  • the support rod extends substantially half way along the height of the compartment so as to support the shelf substantially half way of the height of the compartment.
  • both ends of the support rod can be fixed to the top and bottom wall of the compartment respectively so that the support rod extends along the full height of the compartment.
  • the shelf and/or support rod comprises indexing means to support the shelf at different heights along the support rod. The shelf is prevented from being removed since the support rod extends through the shelf.
  • the indexing means can comprise a pivotable toggle plate fixed to the shelf and the support rod passes through a hole in the pivotable toggle plate. The toggle plate is held in place along the support rod by being gripped by an edge of the toggle hole.
  • the toggle plate is pivotally connected at one end of the shelf and is urged at an angle against a toggle spring so that the toggle hole grips the support rod.
  • the user presses on the toggle plate against the toggle spring so releasing the frictional grip of the edge of the toggle hole with the support rod.
  • the toggle plate is indexed along the support rod thus allowing the user to adjust the height of the shelf.
  • the indexing means comprises serrations on the support rod so as to enable the toggle plate to index past successive ratchet serrations.
  • the toggle plate is pivotable against a toggle spring to hold the toggle plate and thus, the shelf against a serration.
  • each of the opposing walls comprises a plurality of dowels along the height of the compartments that are spaced apart that corresponds to the different indexing along the support rod and so provides different height adjustments of the shelf.
  • the shelf and/or the top wall of the compartment comprises means to retain (e.g. magnet) the shelf to the top wall of the compartment for storing larger sized goods or for cleaning purposes.
  • Figure 13(d) shows the shelf being stowed away to the top wall of the compartment by being attracted to magnets 610 fixed to the shelf and/or the top wall of the compartment.
  • the central control system 100 To obtain access to a lockable storage space 22, the central control system 100 generates and communicates a unique collection code 1 10 to both the access control module 40 and the users. For example, when an order for a delivery of goods 106 is made online, this is communicated to the central control system 100. The central control system 100 allocates the delivery of the goods 106 to a schedule. By means of a collection code generator, the central control system 100 generates and assigns a unique collection code 1 10 to the goods 106 and then communicates the unique collection code 110 to the access control module 40 via a collection code communication means 1 12. The unique collection code is also sent to the courier via another data communication means 114 (e.g. via wireless means such as mobile devices or personal computers) as shown in Fig 12 (b) and Fig 12 (c).
  • another data communication means 114 e.g. via wireless means such as mobile devices or personal computers
  • the courier inputs the collection code 1 10 at the local user interface 42 to be validated by the access control module 40, which then unlocks the allocated lockable storage space 22.
  • the courier 102 is required to scan the consignments 106 at a consignment recognition device, before depositing it into the correct compartment 24 as indicated by access control module 40. This serves to minimise the risk of the courier 102 misplacing the goods in a compartment 24 conditioned at a wrong storage temperature.
  • the consignment recognition device can be any device known to those skilled in the art, for example bar code or RFID tag scanners.
  • the delivery process finishes when the courier 102 closes the door, and the lockable storage space is locked securing the consignment 106.
  • the lockable storage space may be configured to lock automatically when the door is closed.
  • the access control module 40 then communicates to the central control system 100 that the item is ready for collection. This in turn notifies the same to the customer 104 via data communication means 114 e.g. comprising email or SMS and provides the customer with either the previously generated unique collection code 1 10 used by the courier delivery or generates another unique collection code 110 for increased security.
  • data communication means 114 e.g. comprising email or SMS and provides the customer with either the previously generated unique collection code 1 10 used by the courier delivery or generates another unique collection code 110 for increased security.
  • each of the lockable storage spaces 22 can be equipped with an externally visible or audible identification means.
  • the identification means can be provided by a light 116 mounted adjacent to each of the lockable storage spaces 22 which illuminates once the addresses has entered the correct code into the access control module.
  • each locker may be identified by a unique label affixed to or otherwise physically associated with it; such as a number, letter, geometric shape, personal name or the like.
  • the door handle to each compartment may comprise a recess 560 that this shaped to accept a self-adhesive label with a unique identification number and/or letter.
  • the relevant storage space is unlocked and a copy of the corresponding unique label is displayed on the user interface, together with any other relevant messages, e.g.: "Hi John Doe, your order is ready for collection from locker no. 8, bottom row, to your left. This has earned you 46 club card points. For more great offers and rewards, visit our website, www... .
  • the lockable storage space automatically locks and the access control module 40 updates the current status of that particular storage space with the central control system 100. If the goods are not retrieved within the assigned time slot the central control system 100 will produce an alternative storage schedule or instruct the courier 102 to retrieve the uncollected goods 106.
  • the supplier cannot fully satisfy a customer's online order, for example if a particular item is out of stock, the supplier can opt to deliver a like for like alternative to the system.
  • the addressee may either accept the alternative goods along with other grocery goods, or he/she may choose to leave the alternative goods in the locker to be collected by a courier later.
  • the courier will then notify the central control system of any uncollected goods, to ensure refund is given accordingly.
  • the addresses decided not to accept a particular item in the grocery order for any reason, for example damaged goods or wrong items, he/she may leave the item in the locker to be collected by a courier for a refund.
  • the compartments includes a passive infrared (PIR) sensor (not shown) as a safety mechanism.
  • PIR passive infrared
  • the compartments includes a passive infrared (PIR) sensor (not shown) as a safety mechanism.
  • PIR sensor detects their movement and overrides the locking mechanism to grant an escape route.
  • PIR sensor also detects goods collection and aids the central control system 100 in confirming item collection.
  • Other safety mechanisms known to the person skilled in the art may also be used, for example load sensors and emergency releases.
  • the doors securing the storage spaces may be biased closed or motorised and programmed to close automatically. For example if a courier / customer forgets to close the door after grocery deliver / collection, the biasing will do so, or the access control module may instruct the door to close automatically after a predetermined period. This feature helps to enhance locker security and minimises unwanted heat exchange to the environment.
  • the system may further comprise auxiliary equipment to improve accessibility and security.
  • a roof or overhead gantry 150 along the whole width of the system 10 helps to shelter a user from rain and snow during delivery or collection of the goods in the storage space.
  • the overhead gantry 150 also blocks out direct sunlight that could otherwise warm up the lockable storage spaces 22 or cause glare on the display of the local user interface 42.
  • lighting 160 is installed underneath the overhead gantry 150 to provide illumination for the user during night time and also serves as a crime deterrent.
  • the well-lit area may be under constant CCTV surveillance (not shown).
  • each locker module is provided with a roof or canopy 150 that extends along the whole width of the locker module and overhangs to the front of the locker module.
  • the roof of apparatus 10 or canopy is slightly sloped toward the rear to aid rain water removal into a rear mounted gutter, so as to protect users from a curtain of rainwater as they enter or emerge from the apparatus 10.
  • the canopy is a plastic sheeting material, e.g. polycarbonate sheeting material that extends and is clamped between canopy struts 520 secured to each end of the locker module.
  • the canopy strut 520 comprises a top clamping 522 member that cooperates with the body 524 of the canopy strut 520 to form a clamp.
  • the canopy sheet is clamped between mating surfaces of the top clamping member 522 and the body 524 of the canopy strut 520.
  • the top clamping member 522 is a substantially elongated, flat metallic plate that is bent to match the curved or sloped profile over the body 524 of the canopy strut 520.
  • the canopy sheet 521 adopts the same sloped profile of the top clamping member and the body of the canopy strut so as to aid the flow of rain water into a mounted gutter.
  • the top clamping member 522 is adjustably fixed 528 at one end of the canopy strut body and the clamping force is adjusted by a front adjustable fastener 530 located at the other end of the canopy strut.
  • the top clamping member 522 is releasably fixed 528 at rear end of the canopy strut by a hook and slot relationship.
  • the rear end of the canopy strut body is formed with a hook that is received in an orifice or slot at one end of the top clamping member.
  • the front of the canopy strut is formed with an adjustable fastener 530 for adjusting the clamping force applied onto the canopy sheet.
  • the front adjustable fastener 530 is an adjustable tensioning buckle. Having an adjustable tensioning buckle located at the front of the canopy permits easy access to the adjustable tensioning buckle from the front of the canopy.
  • the adjustable tensioning buckle at the other end of the top clamping member comprises an upwardly extending bent portion that cooperates with an upwardly extending member of the body of the canopy strut. By reducing or increasing the spacing between the upwardly extending portion and the upwardly extending member of the body of the canopy strut, the tension and thus, the clamping force applied to the canopy sheet can thus be increased or reduced respectively.
  • An adjustable screw 532 is fed through and threadingly engages with the upwardly bent portion and the upwardly extending member to adjust the spacing between both upwardly extending members and thereby, adjust the tension applied to the canopy sheet.
  • the exterior shell of the locker modules are provided with access points to enable easy access to the interior components of the locker module, more particularly the refrigeration unit (see Fig. 4f) and/or the controller unit located on top of each locker module (see Fig. 14(f)).
  • the canopy strut 520 permits easy access to the refrigeration unit and/or the controller unit located on top of each locker module simply by undoing the front tensioning buckle (releasing the tightening screw) so as to release the canopy sheet covering from up top of the locker module and thereby, expose the refrigeration unit and/or the controller unit underneath (see Fig. 14(f)).
  • the front tensioning buckle For example, by undoing the front tensioning buckle releases the canopy sheet from the clamp, thereby allowing the canopy sheet to be slid back away from the front of the canopy to expose the refrigeration unit below.
  • Locating the front tensioning buckle 530 at the front of the canopy strut allow easy access to the tensioning buckle from the front of the locker module so allowing easy removal of the canopy sheet covering.
  • the canopy sheet can be incorporated with concertina folds to permit the canopy to be slid away from the top of the locker module so exposing the refrigeration unit below.
  • the adjacent locker module is prevented from leaning by being connected or linked to other neighbouring locker modules in the assembly.
  • the canopy struts are secured to the top end side wall of each of the locker module in an assembly so that their downwardly extending retainers or spacers 534 are spaced apart having a width that is substantially the same or slightly bigger than that exterior width of each locker module and thereby, providing a substantially close sliding fit of each locker module with little wasted space.
  • the downwardly extending spacers 534 of the canopy strut and the at least one side wall of the locker module are removeably engageable.
  • Fig. 14(g) shows the condition when the locker module is engaged with the downwardly extending retainer 534
  • Fig. 14(h) shows the condition when the locker module is disengaged with the downwardly extending retainer 534.
  • the locker module is removeably engageable with the canopy strut through a slot and bolt 536, 538 arrangement but other removeable engaging means known in the art are permissible in the present invention.
  • the canopy struts can be fixed to an exterior wall or frame so providing adequate opposing reactive force when one or more locker modules leans against the downwardly extending spacer of the canopy strut.
  • the locker modules in an assembly can rest against the downwardly extending spacer so that when one of the locker modules is removed for repair or replacement, neighbouring locker modules are prevented from tilting excessively and therefore, prevented from encroaching on the allocated space for reinstalling a repaired or replacement locker module.
  • the downwardly extending spacer is integrated into the body of the canopy strut as a single body.
  • the canopy strut of the present invention is flexible to accommodate different shaped configurations of an assembly of locker modules depending upon user preferences and/or availability of floor space.
  • Fig. 14(i) shows an assembly locker modules accommodating a substantially "U" shaped configuration.
  • FIG. 14(j) shows the individual canopy struts of the present invention assembled to form a canopy framework 539 at a corner junction of an assembly of locker modules shown in Fig. 14(i).
  • the rear profile end of the canopy struts fan out from a corner pillar or post 540 and are connected to each other by a rear connection or linkage arm 544.
  • the middle portion of the canopy strut is assembled and secured to the front of the locker module framework 543.
  • the front profile end of the canopy struts are connected or linked together by a front connection or linkage arm 542.
  • the canopy struts are slotted onto the frame of the locker modules and held together by a pin and slot arrangement.
  • the upwardly extending bent portion 549 of the front tensioning buckle 530 comprises side wings or flanges 546 either side of the front tensioning buckle. At least one of the wings or flanges 546 comprises a slot for receiving a pin 548 of the linkage arm 542.
  • the upwardly extending bent portion 549 of the front tensioning buckle 530 is assembled onto the front end of the canopy strut body by a socket and plug arrangement.
  • the unit comprising the refrigeration plant module 50 may be combined with a lockable storage space 22 beneath, e.g. enable wheelchair access 170, as shown in Figure 14.
  • various aspects related to the control and operation of the apparatus 10 may be accomplished via or in connection with the execution of programs and/or algorithms configured to perform the respective control and operations aspects.
  • the programs and/or algorithms may be executed via the operation of a control unit that has been configured accordingly.
  • the control unit may be located locally at the apparatus 10 (e.g., in the access control module 40), remotely at the central control module 100, or may be distributed in some form between the apparatus 10 and the central control module 100.
  • the control unit could be embodied at the central control module 100 (or in the "cloud") and the access control module 40 could be a thin client.
  • the control unit could be embodied at the access control module 40.
  • control unit could be distributed between the central control module 100 and the access control module 40 (or multiple access control modules). Whether embodied at the access control module 40, the central control module 100, or distributed therebetween, the control unit may interface with components of the system described above via wired and/or wireless connections to facilitate the control and operation functions described above.
  • Figure 15 illustrates an example of a control unit that may be employed in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 15 illustrates a control unit 300 that may interface with various system components to receive information and provide control instructions that may be communicated to electrical, mechanical or electromechanical components of the apparatus 10.
  • the control unit 300 may also provide a mechanism by which to conduct network communications with communications nodes (e.g., smart phones, laptops, computer terminals, servers, etc.) in a network similar to that of Figures 12(a)-(c).
  • the control unit 300 may include processing circuitry 310 configured to perform data processing, control function execution and/or other processing and management services according to an example embodiment of the present invention.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may be embodied as a chip or chip set (e.g., PCB 89).
  • the processing circuitry 310 may comprise one or more physical packages (e.g., chips) including materials, components and/or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard).
  • the structural assembly may provide physical strength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electrical interaction for component circuitry included thereon.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may therefore, in some cases, be configured to implement an embodiment of the present invention on a single chip or as a single "system on a chip.”
  • a chip or chipset may constitute means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionalities described herein.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may include one or more instances of a processor 312 and memory 314 that may be in communication with or otherwise control a device interface 320 and, in some cases, a user interface 330.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may be embodied as a circuit chip (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) configured (e.g., with hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software) to perform operations described herein.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may be configured to interface with various modules, units and/or the like, and each such module or unit may be associated with corresponding functionality executable by the control unit 300.
  • the user interface 330 may be in communication with the processing circuitry 310 to receive an indication of a user input at the user interface 330 and/or to provide an audible, visual, mechanical or other output to the user.
  • the user interface 330 may include, for example, a keypad, a mouse, a display, a touch screen, one or more levers, switches, indicator lights, speakers, microphones, buttons or keys (e.g., function buttons), and/or other input/output mechanisms.
  • the user interface 330 may be located remotely relative to other portions of the control unit 300 in some cases.
  • the user interface 330 may be located at the apparatus 10 (e.g., as the graphical user interface 42), but the control unit 300 may be substantially located at the central control module 100.
  • the device interface 320 may include one or more interface mechanisms for enabling communication with other devices (e.g., sensors, communication nodes, locks, valves and/or other accessories or functional units such as servos, solenoids, switches or other operational control devices for providing control functions).
  • the device interface 320 may be any means such as a device or circuitry embodied in either hardware, or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to receive and/or transmit data from/to sensors, modules and/or other components in communication with the processing circuitry 310.
  • the processor 312 may be embodied in a number of different ways.
  • the processor 312 may be embodied as various processing means such as one or more of a microprocessor or other processing element, a coprocessor, a controller or various other computing or processing devices including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), or the like.
  • the processor 312 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 314 or otherwise accessible to the processor 312.
  • the processor 312 may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry - in the form of processing circuitry 310) capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present invention while configured accordingly.
  • the processor 312 when the processor 312 is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processor 312 may be specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein.
  • the processor 312 when the processor 312 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor 312 to perform the operations described herein.
  • the processor 312 may be transformed into a functional actor that is specifically configured in accordance with the instructions, algorithms and/or the like, to perform various operations described herein.
  • the processor 312 may be embodied as, include or otherwise control the operation of the control unit 300 based on inputs received by the processing circuitry 310 responsive to various operating conditions or component status indicators associated with the apparatus 10.
  • the processor 312 may be said to cause each of the operations described in connection with the control unit 300 in relation to adjustments to be made to the components of the apparatus 10 to undertake the corresponding functionalities responsive to execution of instructions or algorithms configuring the processor 312 (or processing circuitry 310) accordingly.
  • the instructions may include instructions for operation of the system based on operating conditions and component status as described herein.
  • the memory 314 may include one or more non-transitory memory devices such as, for example, volatile and/or non- volatile memory that may be either fixed or removable.
  • the memory 314 may be configured to store information, data, applications, instructions or the like for enabling the processing circuitry 310 to carry out various functions in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
  • the memory 314 could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processor 312.
  • the memory 314 could be configured to store instructions for execution by the processor 312.
  • the memory 314 may include one or more databases that may store a variety of data sets responsive to input from the sensors and/or other components.
  • applications and/or instructions may be stored for execution by the processor 312 in order to carry out the functionality associated with each respective application/instruction.
  • the applications may include instructions for processing inputs and/or providing outputs to control operation of the apparatus 10 as described herein.
  • the processing circuitry 310 may be configured to interface with modules, units and/or the like that include instructions for performing the corresponding function.
  • the control unit 300 may include one or more of an access control management module 350, temperature control module 352, and a refrigeration capacity control module 354.
  • Each of the access control management module 350, temperature control module 352, and the refrigeration capacity control module 354 may be configured to interface with components as described above to perform the corresponding functionalities described above.
  • each respective module may define algorithms to configure the control unit 300 for such interface.
  • the control unit 300 may interface with a sensor network 360 to receive inputs used in connection with making various determinations and triggering operation of the modules or of particular functionalities associated with the modules.
  • the control unit 300 may further include modules for executing certain functions based on operator or customer input.
  • the control unit 300 may include a scheduling module 370, ordering module 372, interface module 374, and/or other functional modules.
  • Each module may be any means such as software, hardware and/or combinations of software and hardware configured to perform the corresponding functionality of each respective module.
  • any or all of the modules may be received and/or modified via interaction with other network components.
  • modules or apps
  • modules may be provided to the access control module 40 and/or user equipment from the central control system 100 or from other repositories associated with a communication network supporting the apparatus 10.
  • the interface module 374 may provide control consoles, forms, reports and/or the like for configuring devices or user interface components to provide the interface paradigm that the user experiences when ordering, controlling or otherwise interfacing with the control unit 300.
  • Various other modules, applications and/or downloadable component may also be provided to provide a comprehensive biome with various configurable functions and/or interaction mechanisms that may be desirable based on consumer demand and on the information provided by grocers.
  • the number and functionality of the modules may be determined based on the amount of information that grocers are capable of providing. As such, the capabilities of the control unit 300 may be scalable and upgradeable on a routine or periodic basis.
  • the storage apparatus of the present invention may advantageously be used at a centralised location, e.g., train stations and office clusters. However it is equally applicable in secure delivery or collection of goods for individual customers or companies. For example, an individual or a company may install the system outside their home or workplace. This enables groceries and other perishable items to be securely delivered and stored at the correct temperature, even when the recipient is not present.
  • System for secure delivery or collection of goods requiring refrigeration or heating comprising at least one lockable storage space, in which the temperature of said at least one storage space is independently controllable to provide any one of:- ambient temperature; or chilled temperature; or frozen temperature; and wherein access to the storage space is remotely programmable.
  • A2 System as defined in Feature Al further comprising; a) an access control module for controlling the locking and/or unlocking of the at least one lockable storage space to enable access to the interior of the at least one lockable storage space; b) a local user interface cooperating with the access control module; c) a central control system comprising a collection code generation means and a collection code communication means for generating and communicating a unique collection code to the access control module associated with an individual delivery to the at least one lockable storage space; d) data communication means in cooperation with the central control system; said data communication means is adapted to receive the unique collection code from the central control system such that when the unique collection code is subsequently entered into the local user interface, the at least one lockable storage space is unlocked.
  • A5. System as defined in Features A2 to A4, wherein the central control system communicates with the access control module with the use of a communication module, wherein the communication module transmit information via wireless or TCP/IP.
  • A6 System as defined in Feature A5, wherein the access control module monitors the status of the at least one lockable storage space, and to transmit information derived from such monitoring to the central control system.
  • A7 System as defined in any of the preceding Features Al to A6, wherein the at least one lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment and wherein the temperature of said at least one compartment is independently controllable to provide any one of ambient temperature; or chilled temperature; or frozen temperature.
  • A8 System as defined in Feature A7, comprising: a) a primary system comprising a refrigeration system; and b) a secondary system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is in cooperation with the primary system; in which: c) the secondary system comprises a distribution system for distributing the heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; d) the temperature of said at least one compartment is independently controllable by controlling the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the secondary system.
  • A9 System for secure delivery or collection of goods requiring refrigeration or heating, comprising at least one lockable storage space, wherein each of the lockable storage space comprises two or more compartments, in which the temperature of each of the compartments is independently controllable to provide any one of:- ambient temperature; or chilled temperature; or frozen temperature; characterised in that the system further comprises, a) a primary system comprising a refrigeration system; and b) a secondary system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is in cooperation with the primary system; in which: c) the secondary system comprises a distribution system for distributing the heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with each of the compartments; and d) the temperature of each of the compartments is independently controllable by controlling the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the secondary system.
  • each of the compartments are formed by partitioning the at least one lockable storage space and wherein the partition is moveable so as to adjust the interior volume of each of the compartments.
  • the distribution system comprises at least one control valve to control the circulation of the heat transfer fluid to the at least one compartment or each of the compartments.
  • a 19 System as defined in Feature A 18, wherein the temperature of at the least one compartment or each of the compartments is controlled by a secondary heat exchanger in fluid communication with the heat transfer fluid in the distribution system.
  • A21 System as defined in Feature A19 or Feature A20, wherein the at least one compartment or each of the compartments comprises a fan for circulating cool or hot air from the secondary heat exchanger into the at least one compartment or into each of the compartments.
  • the secondary heat exchanger comprises a conduit housed exterior of the at least one compartment or each of the compartments so as to circulate cool or hot air from within the housing into the at least one compartment or each of the compartments.
  • A23 System as defined in Feature A21 or A22, wherein the temperature of the at least one compartment or each of compartments is controlled by controlling the speed of the fan.
  • A31 System as defined in Features A28 to A30, wherein the central control system communicates with the access control module with the use of a communication module wherein the communication module transmit information via wireless or TCP/IP.
  • each of the modular units comprising at least one or more of the following: i) the at least one lockable storage space as defined in any of the preceding features; and/or ii) the refrigeration system as defined in any of features A8 to A32; and/or iii) the distribution system as defined in any of the features A8 to A32; and/or iv) the heating system as defined in Feature A13 to A32; and/or v) the access control module as defined in Feature A2 or Feature A8.
  • System for secure delivery or collection of goods comprising at least one lockable storage space, in which the temperature of said at least one storage space is independently controllable to provide any one of:- ambient temperature; or chilled temperature; or frozen temperature; and wherein access to the storage space is remotely programmable.
  • B29 System as defined in Feature B28, wherein the data communication means is wireless transmitter/receiver means.
  • B30 System as defined in Feature B29, wherein the data communication means is a mobile device or a personal computer.
  • B31 System as defined in Features B28 to B30, wherein the central control system communicates with the access control module with the use of a communication module wherein the communication module transmit information via wireless or TCP/IP.
  • B32 System as defined in Feature B31 , wherein the access control module monitors the status of the at least one lockable storage space, and to transmit information derived from such monitoring to the central control system.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising a. two or more compartments controllable to have different temperatures; and b. a remotely programmable insulated lockable door closable to seal the two or more compartments from each other.
  • CIO The door of feature C8 or C9, wherein the door is for closing an oven or a refrigerator.
  • CI 1 An oven or a refrigerator comprising a door of any of the features C8 to CIO.
  • CI 2. An assembly of storage spaces, comprising: a) three or more storage spaces, each of the three or more storage spaces comprising one or more compartments; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the one or more compartments in the each of the three or more storage spaces; wherein the three or more storage spaces each comprises a remotely programmable insulated lockable door.
  • each of the compartments comprises; a) a cavity; b) an insulating layer exterior of the cavity; c) at least one heat exchanger for cooperation with the refrigeration system, said at least one heat exchanger being mounted to at least one wall of the cavity and partially embedded within the insulation layer.
  • CI 4 An assembly of storage spaces each of the storage spaces comprising a plurality of compartments; a) at least one common distribution system for distributing a heat transfer fluid to and from the plurality of compartments; b) means for separately varying the quantity of heat transferred to the heat transfer fluid to the plurality of compartments.
  • C18 The assembly of feature C17, wherein the depth of the one or more compartments are in substantially integral ratios.
  • C19 The assembly of any of the features C15 to C18, wherein the integral ratios is x: y: z, where x or y or z has any value of 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 or 5.
  • C21 The assembly of any of the features C5 to C13, wherein the refrigeration system is located remotely to the assembly of storage spaces; and wherein the refrigeration system is in cooperation with the at least one common distribution system.
  • C22 The assembly of any of the features Cl l to C21, wherein each of the compartments comprises a heat exchanger and wherein the quantity of heat transferred to the heat transfer fluid is separately varied through the heat exchangers.
  • C33 The assembly of any of the features C22 to C32, wherein the each of the compartments comprises at least one fan for varying the quantity of heat transferred from the heat exchanger to the compartments.
  • C34 The assembly of any of the features C12 to C33, wherein the each of the compartments are modular.
  • a method for preparing temperature sensitive items for delivery to a remotely lockable temperature controlled storage device comprising one or more compartments comprising the steps of i) receiving a user request for delivery of one or more temperature sensitive items; ii) determining the required temperature of the one or more temperature sensitive items; iii) placing the one or more temperature sensitive items in one or more containers of selected size such that the items in any one container may be exposed to a common temperature range without adverse effect; iv) before or after placing the one or more temperature sensitive items in one or more containers of selected size, determining availability at the remotely lockable temperature controlled storage device of one or more compartments :- a) at or controllable to a temperature or temperatures to receive the containers b) of suitable dimensions to receive the containers.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising:- i) an assembly of compartments as defined in any of the features CI 2 to C37; and ii) a plurality of containers dimensioned to closely fit the dimensions of the compartments.
  • An assembly of storage spaces comprising: a) three or more storage spaces, each of the three or more storage spaces comprising one or more compartments; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with the one or more compartments in the each of the three or more storage spaces; wherein the three or more storage spaces each comprises a remotely programmable insulated lockable door.
  • each of the compartments comprises; a) a cavity; b) an insulating layer exterior of the cavity; c) at least one heat exchanger for cooperation with the refrigeration system, said at least one heat exchanger being mounted to at least one wall of the cavity and partially embedded within the insulation layer.
  • D13 The assembly of any of the preceding features, wherein said one or more compartments are controllable to have different temperatures by separately varying the quantity of heat transferred to the heat transfer fluid to the one or more compartments.
  • D14 The assembly of feature D13, wherein the quantity of heat transferred to the heat transfer fluid is separately varied through the heat exchangers.
  • D15 The assembly of feature D14, wherein the quantity of heat transferred is varied by varying the duration of time the heat transfer fluid passes to the compartments or through the heat exchanger.
  • D16 The assembly of feature D14 or D15, wherein the quantity of heat transferred is varied by varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the compartments.
  • D18 The assembly of any of features D14 to D17, wherein the quantity of heat transferred is varied to each of the one or more compartments by varying the temperature difference between the heat transfer fluid to the each of the one or more compartments and the temperature of their corresponding compartments.
  • D19 The assembly of any of the features D14 to D18, wherein the heat transfer fluid is a liquid or a gas.
  • each of the compartments comprises at least one fan for varying the quantity of heat transferred from the heat exchanger to the compartments.
  • D30 The assembly of any of the preceding features, wherein one or more sealing members are provided to effect sealing each of the compartments from the atmosphere.
  • D31 The assembly of feature D30, wherein the sealing members are provided on the remotely programmable insulated lockable door, in or adjacent the compartments or both on the remotely programmable insulated lockable door and in or adjacent the compartments.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising: a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; characterised in that the heat transfer fluid is distributed to said one or more compartments sequentially.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising: a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; c) a controller arranged to prioritise the distribution of heat transfer fluid to each of the compartments.
  • the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of feature El or E2 comprising at least one valve for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the at least one compartment in each of the two or more storage spaces and wherein said valves are arranged to distribute the heat transfer fluid to said compartments sequentially.
  • E20 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in any of the features E17 to E20, wherein the controller is arranged to monitor the status of the valves.
  • E21 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in feature E20, wherein the controller is arranged to place the one or more compartments in the queue in an event that a predetermined number of valves are occupied.
  • the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in any of the preceding features El TO E21 , comprising i) a first compartment at a first temperature and a second compartment at a second temperature, said first compartment is set to a first set point temperature and said second compartment is set to a second set point temperature, and ii) a controller arranged to prioritise the transfer of heat transfer fluid to said first compartment or the second compartment in response to the compartment temperature differential between first temperature and the first set point temperature and between the second temperature and the second set point temperature.
  • the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in any of the preceding features, comprising i) a first compartment and a second compartment, said first compartment has a first waiting time and said second compartment has a second waiting time, and ii) a controller arranged to prioritise the transfer of heat transfer fluid to said first compartment or the second compartment in response to the waiting time of the first compartment and the second compartment.
  • a method of distributing heat transfer fluid to two or more compartments of a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising; a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; and b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; said method comprising the step of distributing the heat transfer fluid sequentially to each of said two or more compartments.
  • a method of distributing heat transfer fluid to two or more compartments of a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising; a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; and b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; said method comprises the step of prioritising the distribution of the heat transfer fluid to each of said two or more compartments.
  • step of prioritising the distribution of the heat transfer fluid to each of said one or more compartments comprises the step of; i) placing each of said two or more compartments in a queue; ii) determining the waiting time of each of said two or more compartments in the queue; ii) prioritising the distribution of the heat transfer fluid to each of said two or more compartments based on their corresponding waiting times.
  • step of prioritising the distribution of the heat transfer fluid to each of said two or more compartments comprises the step of; i) placing each of said two or more compartments in a queue; ii) determining the temperature of each of said two or more compartments in the queue; iii) determining the set point temperature of each of said two or more compartments in the queue; iv) prioritising the distribution of the heat transfer fluid to each of said two or more compartments based on their corresponding temperature differential between the temperature of the first compartment and the set point temperature of the first compartment; and between the temperature of the second compartment and the set point temperature of the second compartment.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising; a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; each of said compartments comprising a first temperature sensing device and a second temperature device; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; c) a controller arranged to:- i) interrupt the flow of heat transfer fluid to at least one compartment when the temperature from the second temperature device reaches a lower limit and re-establish the flow of heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with said at least one compartment when the temperature from the second temperature device reaches an upper limit; ii) repeat step (i) until the temperature from the first temperature sensing device reaches a predetermined set point temperature.
  • E31 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of feature E30, whererin the temperature measurement from the first temperature sensing device
  • E32 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of feature E30 or E31, wherein the first temperature sensing device is fixed to at least one wall of the compartment.
  • E33 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of any of features E30 to E32, wherein said at least one compartment comprises a heat exchanger or an evaporator in fluid communication with the heat transfer and wherein the second temperature sensing device is located adjacent the heat exchanger or the evaporator.
  • E34 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of any of the features E30 to E33, comprising at least one valve for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the at least one compartment in each of the two or more storage spaces and wherein said controller is arranged to control the actuation of the valves for interrupting and re-establishing the flow of the heat transfer fluid between the lower limit and the upper limit of the temperature from the second temperature sensing device respectively to at least one compartment.
  • E35 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of any of the features E30 to E34, wherein said upper limit is substantially -7°C and said lower limit is substantially -10°C.
  • a method of controlling the temperature of at least one compartment in a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising; a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; each of said compartments comprising a first temperature sensing device and a second temperature device; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; comprising the steps of; i) interrupting the flow of heat transfer fluid to at least one compartment when the temperature from the second temperature device reaches a lower limit and re-establishing the flow of heat transfer fluid to exchange heat with said at least one compartment when the temperature from the second temperature device reaches an upper limit; ii) repeating step (i) until the temperature from the first temperature sensing device reaches a predetermined set point temperature.
  • E39 The shelving unit of feature E38, wherein the frame is a bent wire frame.
  • E40 The shelving unit of feature E38 or E39, wherein the frame comprises at least two or more legs and wherein the shelf is supported to the at least two or more legs by slideable fixing points to permit the shelf to be move along the at least two or more legs of the frame.
  • E42 The shelving unit of feature E41, wherein the resting point is a joggle.
  • E43 The shelving unit of feature E41 or E42, wherein the lower portion is outwardly offset of the upper portion.
  • E44 The shelving unit of any of the features E41 to E42, wherein the lower portion is sized to butt up against opposing walls of a compartment.
  • E45 The shelving unit of any of the features E41 to E44, wherein the shelf is moveable along the upper portion.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising: a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; characterised in that the heat transfer fluid is distributed to said one or more compartments sequentially.
  • a lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus comprising: a) two or more remotely lockable storage spaces, wherein each of two or more remotely lockable storage space comprises at least one compartment; b) at least one common distribution system comprising a heat transfer fluid that is arranged to be in cooperation with a refrigeration system, said at least one common distribution system distributing the heat transfer fluid at a supplied pressure to exchange heat with the at least one compartment; c) a controller arranged to prioritise the distribution of heat transfer fluid to each of the compartments.
  • the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus of feature Fl or F2 comprising at least one valve for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid to the at least one compartment in each of the two or more storage spaces and wherein said valves are arranged to distribute the heat transfer fluid to said compartments sequentially.
  • F8 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in feature F7, wherein the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus is arranged to determine the status of the cooling capacity of the refrigeration system and if the cooling capacity has been exceeded determines the availability of one or more compartments.
  • F9 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in feature F8 and feature F3, wherein the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus is arranged to determine the cooling capacity of the refrigeration system by determining the status of said valves.
  • F10 The lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus as defined in feature F9, wherein the lockable temperature controlled storage apparatus is arranged to determine the status of said valves by determining whether one or more valves have been actuated.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Devices That Are Associated With Refrigeration Equipment (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil (10) de stockage à température contrôlée, comportant : a) une pluralité d'espaces de stockage verrouillables, chacun de ces espaces de stockage verrouillables comprenant un ou plusieurs compartiments; la température de chacun desdits compartiments pouvant être contrôlée indépendamment pour fournir soit : une température réfrigérée; soit une température congelée; l'accès à l'espace de stockage étant programmable à distance.
PCT/GB2015/050198 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Système de casiers WO2015114331A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (10)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA2936964A CA2936964C (fr) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Systeme de casiers
EP17207527.7A EP3336459B1 (fr) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Un système de verrouillage
CN201580017214.2A CN106415164B (zh) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 温度受控制的存储设备及方法
US15/111,698 US10976092B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Locker system
EP15702558.6A EP3099989B1 (fr) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Système de casiers
EP17207522.8A EP3336458B1 (fr) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Un système de verrouillage
US15/609,906 US10883754B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system
US15/609,874 US20170299249A1 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system
US15/609,922 US10962273B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system
US16/707,778 US20200116414A1 (en) 2014-01-29 2019-12-09 Locker system

Applications Claiming Priority (14)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1401539.0 2014-01-29
GBGB1401539.0A GB201401539D0 (en) 2014-01-29 2014-01-29 Refrigeration system
GB1401910.3 2014-02-04
GB1401910.3A GB2522718A (en) 2014-01-29 2014-02-04 A locker system
GB1405566.9 2014-03-27
GB1405566.9A GB2522726B (en) 2014-01-29 2014-03-27 An assembly of refrigerated storage spaces provided with a chiller refrigeration unit
GB1411043.1A GB2522940B (en) 2014-01-29 2014-06-18 A Refrigerated Locker System for Delivery of Goods to a Customer
GB1411043.1 2014-06-18
GB1416641.7 2014-09-19
GB201416641A GB201416641D0 (en) 2014-09-19 2014-09-19 A locker system
GB1416742.3 2014-09-22
GB1416742.3A GB2522737B (en) 2014-01-29 2014-09-22 A temperature controlled locker system
GB1423158.3 2014-12-23
GB1423158.3A GB2524135B (en) 2014-01-29 2014-12-23 A locker system

Related Child Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/111,698 A-371-Of-International US10976092B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Locker system
US15/609,874 Division US20170299249A1 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system
US15/609,906 Division US10883754B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system
US15/609,922 Division US10962273B2 (en) 2014-01-29 2017-05-31 Locker system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2015114331A1 true WO2015114331A1 (fr) 2015-08-06

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2015/050198 WO2015114331A1 (fr) 2014-01-29 2015-01-28 Système de casiers

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WO (1) WO2015114331A1 (fr)

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EP3173993A1 (fr) * 2015-11-24 2017-05-31 Alteor Mise à disposition de proximité et automatisée d'articles
DE102017004722A1 (de) * 2017-05-17 2018-01-18 Daimler Ag Regal mit gekühlten Transportkisten
WO2018204962A1 (fr) * 2017-05-12 2018-11-15 Keba Ag Procédé de commande d'un distributeur automatique
US10140602B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2018-11-27 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
IT201700074555A1 (it) * 2017-07-04 2019-01-04 Automatica Systems Di Merlo Elisabetta Distributore automatico a scomparti multipli e unita' modulare autonoma per un distributore automatico a scomparti multipli
US10304147B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2019-05-28 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
EP3550487A1 (fr) 2018-04-06 2019-10-09 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Services de casiers à accès sécurisé
US10600041B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2020-03-24 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
GB202004400D0 (en) 2020-03-26 2020-05-13 Ocado Innovation Ltd A dispatch system
CN112013594A (zh) * 2019-05-28 2020-12-01 青岛海尔特种电冰柜有限公司 组合式送风机组及具有该机组的储物柜
EP3806049A1 (fr) 2019-10-08 2021-04-14 Illinois Tool Works INC. Services de casiers à accès sécurisé
US20210117875A1 (en) * 2019-10-22 2021-04-22 BoxNearby Corp. Storage compartment coordination and tracking
EP3872775A1 (fr) 2020-02-28 2021-09-01 Illinois Tool Works INC. Procédé et système de commande d'un appareil de stockage pour la marchandise
US20210293465A1 (en) * 2020-03-23 2021-09-23 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Method of controlling a storage apparatus and storage apparatus
WO2023010201A1 (fr) * 2021-04-16 2023-02-09 Cubbi Technologies Inc. Réfrigérateur multizone fixe pour une utilisation sécurisée par de multiples utilisateurs

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EP3173993A1 (fr) * 2015-11-24 2017-05-31 Alteor Mise à disposition de proximité et automatisée d'articles
US10140602B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2018-11-27 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
US10289989B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2019-05-14 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
US10304147B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2019-05-28 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
WO2018081787A3 (fr) * 2016-10-31 2019-05-31 Kevin Kelly Technologies et appareil de transactions automatisées de point de vente/point de vente au volant
US10600041B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2020-03-24 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
US10860995B2 (en) 2016-10-31 2020-12-08 Kevin Kelly Drive-thru / point-of-sale automated transaction technologies and apparatus
WO2018204962A1 (fr) * 2017-05-12 2018-11-15 Keba Ag Procédé de commande d'un distributeur automatique
DE102017004722A1 (de) * 2017-05-17 2018-01-18 Daimler Ag Regal mit gekühlten Transportkisten
IT201700074555A1 (it) * 2017-07-04 2019-01-04 Automatica Systems Di Merlo Elisabetta Distributore automatico a scomparti multipli e unita' modulare autonoma per un distributore automatico a scomparti multipli
EP3550487A1 (fr) 2018-04-06 2019-10-09 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Services de casiers à accès sécurisé
WO2019195500A1 (fr) 2018-04-06 2019-10-10 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Blocs de casiers à accès sécurisé
CN112013594A (zh) * 2019-05-28 2020-12-01 青岛海尔特种电冰柜有限公司 组合式送风机组及具有该机组的储物柜
CN112013594B (zh) * 2019-05-28 2022-11-25 青岛海尔特种电冰柜有限公司 组合式送风机组及具有该机组的储物柜
EP3806049A1 (fr) 2019-10-08 2021-04-14 Illinois Tool Works INC. Services de casiers à accès sécurisé
US11393268B2 (en) 2019-10-08 2022-07-19 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Secure access locker banks
US20210117875A1 (en) * 2019-10-22 2021-04-22 BoxNearby Corp. Storage compartment coordination and tracking
US11710083B2 (en) * 2019-10-22 2023-07-25 BoxNearby Corp. Storage compartment coordination and tracking
EP3872775A1 (fr) 2020-02-28 2021-09-01 Illinois Tool Works INC. Procédé et système de commande d'un appareil de stockage pour la marchandise
US20210293465A1 (en) * 2020-03-23 2021-09-23 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Method of controlling a storage apparatus and storage apparatus
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GB2593469B (en) * 2020-03-23 2022-04-06 Illinois Tool Works A method of controlling a storage apparatus and storage apparatus
GB202004400D0 (en) 2020-03-26 2020-05-13 Ocado Innovation Ltd A dispatch system
WO2021191335A1 (fr) 2020-03-26 2021-09-30 Ocado Innovation Limited Système de répartition
WO2023010201A1 (fr) * 2021-04-16 2023-02-09 Cubbi Technologies Inc. Réfrigérateur multizone fixe pour une utilisation sécurisée par de multiples utilisateurs

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