Enhanced Temperature-Controlled Shippers with Adaptive Phase Change Materials and Real-Time Monitoring
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept improves upon the original temperature-controlled shipper by introducing adjustable phase change material containers, real-time monitoring, and modular design, enhancing the thermal performance, customization, and efficiency of shipping temperature-sensitive products.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's temperature-controlled shipper, although effective, has limitations in terms of customization, thermal performance, and real-time monitoring. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by providing a more adaptable, efficient, and reliable solution for shipping temperature-sensitive products.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced temperature-controlled shipper features adjustable phase change material containers, allowing for customization of the thermal performance based on the specific product being shipped. This is achieved through a modular design, comprising interchangeable phase change material containers and insulated clamshell portions. Additionally, the shipper incorporates real-time monitoring sensors to track the temperature and phase change material performance, transmitting data to a remote server. The system also includes an integrated cooling system, comprising a thermoelectric cooler and a heat sink, to maintain a precise temperature range for extended periods of time.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of adjustable phase change material containers, real-time monitoring, and modular design, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in customization, thermal performance, and efficiency, making the enhanced temperature-controlled shipper a novel and non-obvious advancement over the prior art.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different types of phase change materials, varying container shapes and sizes, and alternative cooling systems. Additionally, the modular design could be adapted for use in other applications, such as cold chain logistics or medical device storage.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced temperature-controlled shipper has significant commercial potential in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical industries, where temperature-sensitive products require precise temperature control during shipping. The real-time monitoring and modular design features also make it an attractive solution for logistics and supply chain management companies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61J1/165 |
| A | A61 | A61J1/16 |
| B | B65 | B65D81/18 |
| B | B65 | B65D81/3813 |
| F | F25 | F25D3/06 |
| F | F25 | F25D2201/12 |
| F | F25 | F25D2303/08222 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Thermal packaging and temperature-controlled shipping systems, specifically for medical and biological sample transport, involving phase change materials, thermal insulation, and temperature management technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in thermal engineering, packaging design, and materials science, typically holding a bachelor's or master's degree, with knowledge of phase change materials, thermal transfer principles, and medical shipping requirements
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core thermal management technology. The modular design, real-time monitoring, and adjustable phase change material containers are logical improvements that address known limitations in temperature-controlled shipping systems. These variations demonstrate incremental innovation using standard engineering techniques and readily available technologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,496 |
|---|---|
| Title | Temperature controlled product shipper with a dual phase change material liquid suspension |
| Assignee(s) | Packaging Technology Group, LLC |