WO2022173298A1 - Cooling container - Google Patents
Cooling container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2022173298A1 WO2022173298A1 PCT/NL2022/050068 NL2022050068W WO2022173298A1 WO 2022173298 A1 WO2022173298 A1 WO 2022173298A1 NL 2022050068 W NL2022050068 W NL 2022050068W WO 2022173298 A1 WO2022173298 A1 WO 2022173298A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- container
- cooling
- closing element
- container according
- previous
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 113
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 239000012774 insulation material Substances 0.000 claims description 59
- 230000004308 accommodation Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000001143 conditioned effect Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000006261 foam material Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 7
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 50
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 14
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 11
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 10
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 7
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000002787 reinforcement Effects 0.000 description 6
- 239000012790 adhesive layer Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000011162 core material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000021615 conjugation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004014 plasticizer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000009993 protective function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000003319 supportive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012384 transportation and delivery Methods 0.000 description 2
- 241000251468 Actinopterygii Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003814 drug Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940079593 drug Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000014509 gene expression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012943 hotmelt Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012782 phase change material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008092 positive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- 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
- F25D3/00—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies
- F25D3/02—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies using ice, e.g. ice-boxes
- F25D3/06—Movable containers
- F25D3/08—Movable containers portable, i.e. adapted to be carried personally
-
- 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
- F25D2201/00—Insulation
- F25D2201/10—Insulation with respect to heat
- F25D2201/14—Insulation with respect to heat using subatmospheric pressure
-
- 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
- F25D2303/00—Details of devices using other cold materials; Details of devices using cold-storage bodies
- F25D2303/08—Devices using cold storage material, i.e. ice or other freezable liquid
- F25D2303/082—Devices using cold storage material, i.e. ice or other freezable liquid disposed in a cold storage element not forming part of a container for products to be cooled, e.g. ice pack or gel accumulator
- F25D2303/0822—Details of the element
- F25D2303/08221—Fasteners or fixing means for the element
-
- 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
- F25D2303/00—Details of devices using other cold materials; Details of devices using cold-storage bodies
- F25D2303/08—Devices using cold storage material, i.e. ice or other freezable liquid
- F25D2303/084—Position of the cold storage material in relationship to a product to be cooled
- F25D2303/0844—Position of the cold storage material in relationship to a product to be cooled above the product
Definitions
- the invention relates to a cooling container.
- the invention further relates to a container body and a closing element of such cooling container.
- the invention also relates to an assembly of a cooling container according to the present invention and at least one cooling element.
- a passive cooling system can for example make use of a cooling box or cooling bag.
- the most common type of a cooling box is a squeaky foam box made of expanded polypropylene (EPP).
- EPP cooling boxes are widely used in the catering and fish trade but for example also for grocery deliveries.
- substantially deeply frozen cooling elements are positioned inside the cooling box and can be replaced when they have lost their cooling ability.
- a drawback of the passive cooling systems according to the prior art is that they have their limitations for refrigeration chains longer than 3 to 4 hours, considering an ambient temperature of about 25 degrees Celsius. This can be explained by the insulation value of the EPP being rather low such that the outside temperature too quickly has an impact on the functionality of the frozen cooling elements. Therefore, relatively large cooling elements must be used in order to ensure that a cooling effect can be established over a certain period of time. The use of multiple relatively large cooling element is unpractical for several reasons. For example, their relatively heavy weight makes them impractical and it takes a relatively long to time to refreeze them after use.
- the invention provides thereto a cooling container, comprising a container body, the container body comprising at least one container wall which defines at least one receiving space, in particular for receiving goods and/or products which are to be conditioned, and a closing element configured for substantially closing the container body, wherein the at least one container wall comprises a layered material configuration comprising at least three layers.
- Said layered material configuration comprises at least one vacuum insulated panel which is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material.
- the cooling container according to the present invention has several benefits over conventional cooling containers.
- the application of a container body comprising a container wall comprising a layered material configuration of at least three layers, wherein at least one vacuum insulated panel (VIP) is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material achieves a significant increase of the cooling ability of the cooling container compared to single- or even double layered containers.
- VIP vacuum insulated panel
- the co-action between the three material layers provides optimal insulation.
- the at least one vacuum insulated panel is typically double sided enclosed by at least one primary insulation material.
- Vacuum insulated panels are known for their low thermal conductivity.
- Such vacuum insulated panel typically comprises a protective outer layer, often a foil layer, which forms an envelop around a porous core material.
- the envelope is evacuated and sealed to prevent outside gases from entering the panel. Damaging of the envelop will negatively affect the ability of insulation performance of the panel. Further, this may cause core material of the vacuum insulated panel to enter the receiving space which could contaminate the products which are received therein. Such would be undesired for safety and health reasons.
- the (double sided) enclosure of the vacuum insulated panel by at least one primary insulation material also contributes to an even lower thermal conductivity (and thus a better conditioning ability).
- the at least one container wall of the container body defines at least one receiving space for receiving goods or product(s) which are to be conditioned.
- the cooling container can also be referred to as a cooling box and/or cooling device.
- the cooling container is typically a passive cooling container.
- the cooling container is a substantially portable container.
- the container is preferably configured for manual handling.
- the dimensions of the cooling container can be adapted to the intended purpose. It is for example conceivable that the container has a volume in the range of 1 litre to 100 litres.
- the at least one vacuum insulated panel can be any vacuum insulated panel known in the prior art and being configured for insulation purposes.
- a vacuum insulated panel comprises a gas-tight enclosure or envelope surrounding a rigid core, from which the air has been evacuated.
- the vacuum insulated panel may have a multi-layered configuration itself, but in view of the present invention a vacuum insulated panel is seen as a single material layer or insulation layer.
- the invention relates to a cooling container, comprising a container body, the container body comprising at least one container wall which defines at least one receiving space for receiving goods or products which are to be conditioned, and a closing element configured for substantially closing the container body, wherein the at least one container wall comprises a layered material configuration comprising at least three layers in which at least one secondary insulation material is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material.
- the secondary insulation material differs from the primary insulation material.
- the at least one vacuum insulated panel is in particular enclosed between two layers of primary insulation material. It is beneficial if these layers which enclose the vacuum insulates panel are made of the same insulation material, however it is also conceivable that the vacuum insulated panel is enclosed between a first primary insulation material and a second primary insulation material. In a preferred embodiment of the container, the at least one vacuum insulated panel is substantially embedded within at least primary insulation material. In this way the co-action between the vacuum insulated panel and the primary insulation material can be optimized.
- the closing element may also comprise at least one vacuum insulated panel. The closing element may comprise at least at least one vacuum insulated panel and at least one primary insulation material.
- the closing element comprises a layered material configuration wherein at least part of a vacuum insulated panel is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material. It is conceivable that the closing element comprises a layered material configuration comprising at least three layers, wherein at least one vacuum insulated panel is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material.
- At least one primary insulation material can for example be a plastic material.
- the primary insulation material may for example be a polymer based material. It is conceivable that the primary insulation material comprises a plastic material and at least one plasticizer. The use of at least one plasticizer may be beneficial in order to adapt the material properties such as the thermal properties.
- the plastic material is preferably relatively rigid, thereby providing a supportive function for the container. Non-limiting examples of plastic material could be applied are acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE) and/or polypropylene (PP). It is conceivable that the plastic material is reinforced, for example glass fiber reinforced.
- At least one primary insulation material is a foam material, in particular expanded polypropylene (EPP).
- EPP expanded polypropylene
- a foam material benefits of being relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for the ease of use of the container.
- the use of expanded polypropylene is preferred due to its good thermal insulation characteristics. Further, the material benefits of a good machinability, a relatively low weight and density, easy handling and being relatively cheap.
- the container according to the present invention is preferably configured to keep its shape.
- the container is preferably substantially rigid.
- it is imaginable that the container is at least partially flexible.
- At least one vacuum insulated panel is preferably attached to the at least one primary insulation material.
- the vacuum insulated panel can for example be attached to at least one primary insulation material by means of an adhesive layer.
- the layers of the at least three layered wall configuration can for example be mutually glued to each other. It is conceivable that the vacuum insulated panel is at both sides attached to at least one primary insulation material by means of an adhesive layer. It is beneficial if the layers of the container wall substantially and preferably fully engage each other. In this way the insulation properties of the container wall will not be affected by for example an air layer in between the material layers.
- the container wall may be of a laminated configuration. In yet an alternative embodiment, it is conceivable that the layers are mechanically attached to each other.
- the container body comprises at least one bottom wall and at least one side wall, and preferably a plurality of side walls, which mutually define at least one receiving space for receiving products which are to be conditioned.
- the container wall is formed by at least one bottom wall and a plurality of side walls.
- the bottom wall has a different material configuration as the side wall(s).
- the bottom wall and the side wall(s) all have a layered material configuration comprising at least three layers, wherein at least one vacuum insulated panel is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material.
- the container according to the present invention has a substantially cube or cuboid shaped.
- the container can for example have the shape of a rectangular cuboid. It is also conceivable that the container wall is substantially round.
- the container body has a modular configuration.
- the container body can be a modular container body.
- a modular embodiment can be beneficial for several applicational purposes.
- the modular container body can for example be configured such that container body can be at least partially collapsed or disassembles thereby reducing the required storage space and/or transport volume. It may also enable an easier manufacturing process.
- the closing element has a modular configuration.
- the closing element may comprise multiple closing element parts which can be mutually connected.
- the wall thickness of at least part of an inner layer of the layered material forming the container wall could substantially equal the wall thickness of at least part of an outer layer of said container wall.
- At least part of an inner layer of the layered material forming the container wall has a smaller thickness than an outer layer of said container wall.
- the thickness of an inner layer of primary insulation material is smaller than the thickness of an outer layer of primary insulation material.
- a relatively thick outer layer can provide a supportive function for the further material layers and for the container body as such.
- a relatively thick outer layer of primary insulation material will further positively contribute to the insulation performance of the cooling container in general.
- a relatively thin inner material layer may be beneficial to ensure optimal insulating co-action between the vacuum insulated panel and the inner material later.
- the thickness of the inner material layer is thinner than the thickness of the vacuum insulated panel. It is preferred that each layer has a thickness which is substantially constant.
- the outer layer and/or inner layer of the layered container wall can also be at least partially structured, which may result in a (locally) fluctuating thickness. It is conceivable that each material layer has a different thickness.
- the container wall can optionally comprise at least one reinforcement rib and/or a reinforcement structure (comprising reinforcement ribs).
- the preferred thickness of the inner material layer depends at least partially on the applied material and can for example be in the range of 1 to 20 mm. Non-limiting examples are thickness ranges of 1 to 8 mm, preferably 2 to 6 mm or 8 to 15 mm, preferably 10 to 12 mm.
- the inner material layer is at least 2 mm.
- the primary insulation material comprises a foam material
- the inner material layer is at least 10 mm.
- the outer layer is in a preferred embodiment at least partially thicker than the inner layer.
- the container body is formed by an outer container body and an inner container body which enclose at least one vacuum insulated panel.
- the inner container body and the outer container body can have a substantially similar shape.
- the inner container body and the outer container body may be made of the same material. However, it is also conceivable that (slightly) different materials are used.
- both the inner container body and the outer container body comprise at least one bottom wall and at least on side wall, and preferably a plurality of side walls, which mutually define at least one receiving space.
- the inner container body comprises a flange which protrudes outwardly.
- the outwardly protruding flange may form an upper wall surface of the container body.
- the flange may form a protective function for the vacuum insulated panel(s) and/or for the outer container body.
- the flange may engage at least one vacuum insulates panel and/or at least one wall part of the outer container body. It is conceivable that the flange is substantially flat. However, it is also conceivable that the flange comprises a structured surface, in particular a structured upper surface for example defining teeth and/or grooves.
- the cooling element(s) to be used in combination with the cooling container are removably positioned inside the container body.
- at least one cooling element is located inside or attached to the closing element of the container.
- the closing element comprises at least one accommodation space for accommodating at least one cooling element.
- at least one accommodation space is positioned at a (lower) region of the closing element which can be positioned substantially inside the container body.
- the cooling element(s) can in practice substantially form part of the closing element.
- the cooling element(s) being positioned at or within the closing element has several benefits. At first, the positioning of at least one cooling element at the upper region of the container will enable a relatively good temperature distribution over the inner volume of the container. The cold air (originating from the cooling element(s)) will in fact continuously fall downwardly. This has a positive effect on the conditioning effect of the cooling element(s). Further, the weight of the closing element will be increased when it comprises at least one cooling element. This will positively contribute to the stability of the closing element and may prevent undesired detachment of the closing element. In particular when the closing element is substantially made of a foam material, the closing element may easily get detached for example during transport or handling.
- the invention also relates to an embodiment wherein the closing element comprises at least one cooling element.
- the at least one cooling element can be positioned inside the accommodation space, if applied. It is also conceivable that at least one cooling element forms integral part of the closing element. It is for example possible that the closing element comprises a layered material configuration wherein at least part of a vacuum insulated panel is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material and at least one cooling element. This is in particular beneficial for the insulating performance of the cooling element, and thus for the insulating performance of the cooling container as such.
- the closing element may for example comprise a cascade of integrally connected cooling elements. One or more cooling element may form integral part of the cooling container. However, they may also be replaceable attached to the closing element.
- the cooling elements applied can be any cooling element according to the prior art which is suitable for the intended purpose.
- the cooling element comprise at least one phase change material.
- a closing element comprising at least one integrally formed cooling element, it is conceivable that the entire closing element is refrigerated after use. In case the closing element comprising at least one vacuum insulated panel, the time required to refreeze the cooling element can be significantly reduced.
- the closing element comprises a layered configuration wherein at least part of a vacuum insulated panel is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material on a first side and at least one cooling element on the other side.
- the closing element is a modular closing element.
- the closing element comprises at least one outer part and at least one inner part, wherein said outer part and said inner part are mutually connectable or connected.
- the outer part substantially encloses the inner part.
- the inner part is at least partially or substantially fully received in the outer part.
- the closing element parts can for example be made of the primary insulation material.
- the inner part defines an accommodation space for accommodating at least part of at least one cooling element.
- At least one inner part and at least one outer part are mutually connected by means of an adhesive layer, preferably a hot melt layer. It is also conceivable that the inner part and the outer part are releasably connected, for example via a click connection.
- the closing element is at least partially made of a foam material, it might be beneficial to provide a rigid connection by means of an adhesive.
- at least one cooling element and at least one vacuum insulated panel are mutually connected by means of an adhesive, in particular a contact spray. It is beneficial if the adhesive applied to connect the inner part and outer part of the closing element is a different type of adhesive.
- the inner part and outer part of the closing element are configured such that the (assembly of the) vacuum insulated panel and cooling element can be clampingly received or retained between said inner part and outer part. It is for example conceivable that a circumferential edge of the cooling element is clampingly retained within the closing element. In this case, the amount of adhesive which is to be applied can be kept relatively small.
- the container body and the closing element may have at least one complementary contact surface.
- Part of the upper edge of the container body and part of the lower edge of the closing element may have a complementary shape which could act as guiding structure for aligning of the closing element with respect to the container body.
- the container body could for example comprises a coupling member and the closing element comprises a counter coupling member which are configured for mutual aligning and/or coupling.
- the closing element and the container body may each comprise at least one protruding tooth and/or at least one groove which have a complementary shape.
- the presence of a complementary (structured) contact surface and/or coupling members and counter coupling members is that these structures may also avoid the formation of a thermal bridge, which could positively contribute to the insulation performance of the cooling container.
- the container could further comprise at least one access opening for supplementary equipment. It can for example be an access opening for receiving electronics.
- the access opening could enable easy use of at least one sensor, such as but not limited to a temperature sensor.
- the container comprises at least one electronic display, which may be coupled to said at least one sensor.
- the container may further comprise at least one external receiving space for receiving at least one external component, such as but not limited to an electronic component.
- the container may also comprise at least one sensor.
- At least one sensor may for example be a temperature sensor. At least one sensor is in particular configured to determine at least one parameter, such as the temperature, inside the receiving space of the container body.
- the sensor may comprise a sensor housing. At least part of the sensor housing, if applied, is preferably made of an insulating material.
- the insulating material can for example be any of the materials as mentioned for the primary insulation material.
- the sensor housing is configured to accommodate at least one electrical element, such as a wire, within the housing. It is beneficial if at least part of at least one sensor, and in particular the sensor housing, extends through at least one container wall. It is for example conceivable that at least part of at least one sensor, in particular of the sensor housing, is embedded in at least one container wall, preferably in an air-tight manner. Such embodiment could prevent that the measured temperature is influenced by external factors. It is conceivable that at least one sensor is connected to at least one control unit and/or to at least one electronic display or ePaper display.
- the container has a stackable configuration. More preferably, both the container body and the closing element have a stackable design.
- a lower side of the closing element and/or the cooling element(s) may be, at least partially, substantially parabolic.
- the lower side of the closing element which is substantially positioned inside the container body is referred to.
- the use a parabolic shape may enable that any formed condense can be discharged from the closing element.
- the cooling element have a substantially parabolic shape, this may result in a short refreezing time due to the larger surface area.
- the invention further relates to a container body for use in a cooling container according to the present invention.
- the container body can be any of the described embodiment of the present patent document.
- the invention also relates to a closing element for use in a cooling container according to the present invention.
- the closing element can be any of the described embodiments of the present patent document.
- the invention also relates to an assembly of a cooling container according to the present invention and at least one cooling element.
- FIG. 1 shows a first possible embodiment of a cooling container according to the present invention
- FIG. 2a-2c show a second possible embodiment of a cooling container according to the present invention
- FIG. 3 shows a third possible embodiment of a cooling container according to the present invention.
- FIG. 4 shows a disassembled view of a closing element according to the present invention.
- FIG. 1 shows a cross section of a first possible embodiment of a cooling container 10 according to the present invention.
- the figure shows a perspective view.
- the cooling container 10 comprises a container body 11 and a closing element 12.
- the container body 11 comprises a container wall which defines a receiving space 14 for receiving at least one product which is to be conditioned.
- the closing element 12 is configured for substantially closing the container body 11.
- the container wall 13 comprises a layered material configuration comprising three layers 15, 16, 17, wherein at least one vacuum insulated panel 15 is substantially enclosed between two primary insulation material layers 16, 17.
- the container body 11 as shown comprises a bottom wall 13A and a plurality of side walls 13B which mutually define the receiving space 14.
- the thickness of the inner primary insulation material layer 17 substantially equals the thickness of the outer primary insulation material layer 16.
- the vacuum insulated panel 15 has a thickness which is substantially larger than the thickness of the insulations materials between which said vacuum insulated panel 15 is enclosed.
- the primary insulation material is a plastic material.
- the primary insulation materials layers 16, 17 which enclose the vacuum insulated panel 15 have a relatively small thickness, typically in the range of 2 to 8 mm.
- the outer primary insulation material layer 16 is provided with a reinforcement structure.
- the reinforcement structure may strengthen the container 10 as such. Further, it is practical for handling of the container 10 as the reinforcement structure enables easy gripping of the container 10 by a user.
- the closing element 12 also comprises a layered material configuration comprising a primary insulation material and a vacuum insulated panel 15. wherein at least part of a vacuum insulated panel 15 is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material.
- the closing element 12 comprises an accommodation space 19 which is configured for accommodating at least one cooling element 18. In the embodiment shown, the cooling elements 18 are positioned within the accommodating space 19.
- the cooling elements 18 of the shown embodiment basically form a cascade of integrally connected cooling elements 18. This configuration can prevent that the cooling element 18 will expand and/or deform during refreezing.
- the container 11 further benefits of a stackable configuration.
- Figures 2a-2c show a second possible embodiment of a cooling container 20 according to the present invention.
- Figure 2a shows a first cross section of the cooling container 20
- figure 2b shows a detailed view of part of the cooling container 20
- figure 2c shows yet another cross section of said container 20.
- figures 2a and 2c show a side view
- figure 2b shows a perspective view.
- the cooling container 20 comprises a container body 21 and a closing element 22.
- the container body 21 comprises a bottom wall 23A and a plurality of side walls 23B which mutually define a receiving space 24 for receiving products which are to be conditioned.
- the closing element 22 is configured for substantially closing the container body 21 .
- the container walls 23A, 23B comprise a layered material configuration wherein a secondary insulation material 25 is substantially enclosed between at least one primary insulation material 26, 27.
- the secondary insulation material 25 is formed by vacuum insulated panels 25.
- the vacuum insulated panels 25 are substantially embedded within the primary insulation material 26, 27 of the surrounding material layers.
- the primary insulation material is a foam material, in particular expanded polypropylene.
- the container walls 13 are relatively thick.
- the outer primary insulation material layer 26 is substantially thicker than the thickness of the vacuum insulated panels 25.
- the thickness of the inner primary insulation material layer 27 substantially equals the thickness of the vacuum insulated panels 25.
- the vacuum insulated panels 25 are attached to the primary insulation material layers 26, 27 by means of an adhesive layer.
- the inner side of the container body 21 is provided with a surface structure.
- the closing element 22 comprises an accommodation space 29 for accommodating cooling elements 28.
- the cooling elements 28 form integral part of the closing element 22.
- figure 2b shows clearly that the container body 21 and the closing element 22 have a complementary contact surface. Part of the upper edge 21 A of the container body
- the closing element 21 and the lower edge 22B of the closing element 22 have a complementary shape wherefore a complementary contact surface is obtained.
- This complementary shape can act as guiding structure for aligning of the closing element 22 with respect to the container body 21 .
- the closing element 22 comprises a vacuum insulated panel which is enclosed between a primary insulation material and the cooling elements 18.
- the container body 21 further comprises an access opening 9 configured for receiving at least part of at least one external element, such as for example electronics (not shown).
- the outer side of the container body 21 comprises an external receiving space 8 for receiving for receiving at least one external element. In the shown embodiment, the external receiving space 8 and the access opening 9 are configurated for mutual co-action.
- FIG. 3 shows a third possible embodiment of a cooling container 30 according to the present invention.
- the figure shows a perspective view of the container 30 in a partly exploded configuration.
- the container 30 has several similarities to the containers 10, 20 shown in figures 1-2c.
- the cooling container 30 comprises a container body 31 and a closing element 32.
- the figure shows that the container body 31 is a modular container body 31.
- the container body 31 is formed by an outer container body 36 and an inner container body 37 which enclose multiple vacuum insulated panels 35. In the shown partly exploded configuration, the vacuum insulated panels 35 are attached to an inner side of the outer container body 36.
- the inner container body 36 comprises a flange 36A which protrudes in outward direction.
- the flange 36A is provided with a structured surface which is configured to receive a complementary structure surface of the closing element 32.
- the closing element 32 comprises two closing element parts 32A, 32B which can be mutually connected.
- the upper closing element part 32A and the lower closing element part 32B are configured to be releasably connected to each other. This can for example be done by a click connection.
- the lower closing element part 32B comprises at least cooling element 38.
- the cooling element 38 faces the receiving space defined by the container body 31.
- the lower closing element part 32B further comprises a vacuum insulated panel 35.
- FIG. 4 shows a disassembled view of a closing element 42 according to the present invention.
- the closing element 42 is a modular closing element 42 and comprises at least one outer part 42A and at least one inner part 42B, wherein said outer part 42A and said inner part 42B are mutually connectable or connected.
- the outer part 42A configured to enclose the inner part 42A.
- the inner part 42B defines an accommodation space for accommodating the cooling element 48.
- At least one vacuum insulated panel 45 is to be received in an accommodation space of the outer part 42A.
- the cooling element 38 and the vacuum insulated panel 45 can be mutually connected by means of an adhesive.
- the inner part 42B and outer part of the closing element 42A are configured such that the assembly of the vacuum insulated panel 45 and cooling element 48 can be clampingly received between said inner part 42B and outer part 42A.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP22704969.9A EP4291836A1 (en) | 2021-02-11 | 2022-02-11 | Cooling container |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
NL2027545A NL2027545B1 (en) | 2021-02-11 | 2021-02-11 | Cooling container |
NL2027545 | 2021-02-11 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2022173298A1 true WO2022173298A1 (en) | 2022-08-18 |
Family
ID=76159868
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/NL2022/050068 WO2022173298A1 (en) | 2021-02-11 | 2022-02-11 | Cooling container |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4291836A1 (en) |
NL (1) | NL2027545B1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022173298A1 (en) |
Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2000018225A1 (en) * | 1998-09-29 | 2000-04-06 | Organ Recovery Systems, Inc. | Portable apparatus for storing and/or transporting biological samples, tissues and/or organs |
JP2001056169A (en) * | 1999-08-18 | 2001-02-27 | Takashima & Co Ltd | Cold insulation box with thermometer |
JP2007240021A (en) * | 2006-03-06 | 2007-09-20 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Folding-type cool box |
US20140151382A1 (en) * | 2012-12-04 | 2014-06-05 | Nanopore, Inc. | Insulated container system for maintaining a controlled payload temperature |
US20150166244A1 (en) * | 2013-12-13 | 2015-06-18 | Peli BioThermal Limited | Thermally insulated package |
DE202016001097U1 (en) * | 2016-01-28 | 2017-05-02 | Va-Q-Tec Ag | Transport container system |
DE202019104570U1 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2019-08-28 | Va-Q-Tec Ag | transport container |
-
2021
- 2021-02-11 NL NL2027545A patent/NL2027545B1/en active
-
2022
- 2022-02-11 WO PCT/NL2022/050068 patent/WO2022173298A1/en active Application Filing
- 2022-02-11 EP EP22704969.9A patent/EP4291836A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2000018225A1 (en) * | 1998-09-29 | 2000-04-06 | Organ Recovery Systems, Inc. | Portable apparatus for storing and/or transporting biological samples, tissues and/or organs |
JP2001056169A (en) * | 1999-08-18 | 2001-02-27 | Takashima & Co Ltd | Cold insulation box with thermometer |
JP2007240021A (en) * | 2006-03-06 | 2007-09-20 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Folding-type cool box |
US20140151382A1 (en) * | 2012-12-04 | 2014-06-05 | Nanopore, Inc. | Insulated container system for maintaining a controlled payload temperature |
US20150166244A1 (en) * | 2013-12-13 | 2015-06-18 | Peli BioThermal Limited | Thermally insulated package |
DE202016001097U1 (en) * | 2016-01-28 | 2017-05-02 | Va-Q-Tec Ag | Transport container system |
DE202019104570U1 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2019-08-28 | Va-Q-Tec Ag | transport container |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP4291836A1 (en) | 2023-12-20 |
NL2027545B1 (en) | 2022-09-12 |
NL2027545A (en) | 2022-09-12 |
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