"Development and Optimization of a Solar-Powered Chill Preservation Unit for Perishable Goods"

Abstract

The Portable Cold Storage Box is an innovative, eco-friendly solution designed to preserve perishable agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables. It features an adjustable temperature control system capable of both cooling and heating to meet the specific needs of different produce. Powered by solar energy, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and electricity, the device ensures reliable and continuous operation even in areas with limited access to power. The box is made from durable, insulated materials, maintaining optimal internal temperature conditions while being easily portable. This invention reduces post-harvest losses, extends shelf life, and improves the quality and marketability of produce, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution for remote and rural regions.

Specification

Description:


Field of the Invention:
[001] This invention pertains to the field of agricultural technology and post-harvest management, focusing on the development of a Portable Cold Storage Box designed for the preservation of perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables. It addresses the challenges of spoilage and waste in the agricultural supply chain by providing a versatile and eco-friendly storage solution. The box features advanced temperature control systems, offering both cooling and heating options to accommodate various produce requirements. Powered by solar energy, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and electricity, this device ensures sustainable and uninterrupted operation, even in off-grid or rural areas. Its portability further enhances its usability, making it a practical and innovative tool.
Background of the invention and related prior art:
[002] The preservation of perishable goods, particularly fruits and vegetables, poses a significant challenge in agriculture, especially in remote and rural areas where access to reliable refrigeration and power sources is limited. Post-harvest losses due to spoilage and inadequate storage conditions result in substantial economic losses and food insecurity. Traditional cold storage systems often rely on electricity, which may not be readily available in many areas, further exacerbating the problem. Additionally, the need for a solution that is both cost-effective and sustainable is critical. This invention addresses these challenges by providing a Portable Cold Storage Box that utilizes solar energy, rechargeable batteries, and electricity to maintain optimal temperature conditions, reducing spoilage, extending shelf life, and enhancing the quality and marketability of perishable agricultural products. The innovative design offers an efficient, environmentally friendly, and adaptable solution to improve post-harvest management and food preservation in diverse settings.
[003] A patent document US9857810B2 discloses a solar energy thermostatic controller using a solid-state microcomputer that manages air mover(s) to supply heated air for building space heating. Methods includes microcomputer software for communicating with temperature sensors located at the solar heating source, the supply vent source and the building room/interior. The present invention thermostatic control device features a data logger to record temperatures and humidity history, and elapsed time usage history of solar heated air available from attics and crawl spaces; or solar collectors mounted in or on walls, rooftops, or exterior locations. The thermostatic control device manages use of limited solar heated air for building environmental control. Program controlled temperature set points manage an HVAC blower to gather solar heated air during the daily sunlight solar excursion and to control shutdown of the supply system when solar heated air temperature falls below present room/interior temperature. Methods include permanent memory storage of historical data.
[004] Another patent document US4195621A discloses a solid-state temperature regulator for a solar heating system for use in conjunction with a swimming pool, or the like. The solar swimming pool heating system includes the usual components, namely, a pump, a filter, and a collector, and in which the pump serves to circulate the water from the pool through the filter and collector and back into the pool. The system also includes additional components, namely, temperature sensors for the collector and for the circulated pool water, appropriate valves, and a solid-state control circuit. The solid-state control circuit responds to predetermined temperature differences sensed by the sensors to cause the pool water to be circulated through the collector so long as the collector is at a higher temperature than the circulated pool water, and which causes the circulated pool water to by-pass the collector when the temperature of the collector drops below the temperature of the circulated pool water. The control circuit also has a high temperature cut-off control which activates the valves to cause the circulated pool water to by-pass the collector when the temperature of the circulated pool water exceeds a particular threshold. The control circuit also includes a mode switch which may be actuated to reverse the action of the system, causing the pool water to be circulated through the collector when the collector temperature is lower than the pool water temperature, for example, at night following a hot day, in which the collector radiates to the black sky, whereby the collector can be used to cool the water in the pool.
[005] A document CN106895358B relates to a lithium-electricity solar Internet of things lamp system which comprises lithium-electricity solar street lamps, zigBee wireless modules, wireless gateways, GPRS base stations, a wireless network, an RS485 transceiver, an intelligent mobile terminal, a remote control platform and a terminal server, wherein the lithium-electricity solar street lamps, the ZigBee wireless modules, the wireless gateways, the GPRS base stations and the terminal server are arranged on two sides of a road, the ZigBee wireless modules and the wireless gateways are arranged on the lithium-electricity solar street lamps, the remote control platform is connected with the terminal server through an Internet network and/or a wireless local area network, the remote control platform is respectively connected with the intelligent mobile terminal and the GPRS base stations through the wireless network, the GPRS base stations are connected with a plurality of wireless gateways through the GPRS network, the wireless gateways are connected with a plurality of ZigBee wireless modules in a communication range, and the ZigBee wireless modules outside the communication range are mutually coordinated in a relay mode to realize communication connection. The system carries out unified management on street lamp equipment through the remote-control platform and the ZigBee wireless module, and achieves the effects of remote illumination monitoring, real-time monitoring, intelligent control, energy conservation and consumption reduction.
[006] Another document CN108941005B relates to a water-saving solar power generation panel cleaning device with good cleaning effect, which comprises a main body, a base, a cleaning mechanism and a collecting mechanism, wherein the cleaning mechanism comprises a moving assembly and a flushing assembly, the moving assembly comprises a moving plate and two control units, the flushing assembly comprises a driving unit and a flushing unit, and the collecting mechanism comprises a water collecting assembly and a cleaning assembly. In this clean effectual water conservation type solar panel cleaning device, through wiper mechanism, can control a plurality of shower nozzles and carry out comprehensive washing away cleanness to solar panel, prevent to appear leaking clear region, clean convenient high efficiency, clean effect has been improved, and can also avoid the influence that the artificial improper clean operation brought, solar panel's cleanness is more reliable, through collecting mechanism, can be to the collection of sewage, purify and cyclic utilization, the greatly reduced consumption of water resource, clean cost has been reduced, the practicality and the reliability of equipment have been improved.
[007] A patent document US9857810B2 discloses a solar energy thermostatic controller using a solid-state microcomputer that manages air mover(s) to supply heated air for building space heating. Methods includes microcomputer software for communicating with temperature sensors located at the solar heating source, the supply vent source and the building room/interior. The present invention thermostatic control device features a data logger to record temperatures and humidity history, and elapsed time usage history of solar heated air available from attics and crawl spaces; or solar collectors mounted in or on walls, rooftops, or exterior locations. The thermostatic control device manages use of limited solar heated air for building environmental control. Program controlled temperature set points manage an HVAC blower to gather solar heated air during the daily sunlight solar excursion and to control shutdown of the supply system when solar heated air temperature falls below present room/interior temperature. Methods include permanent memory storage of historical data.
[008] None of these above patents, however alone or in combination, disclose the present invention. The invention consists of certain novel features and a combination of parts hereinafter fully described, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and particularly pointed out in the appended claims, it being understood that various changes in the details may be made without departing from the spirit, or sacrificing any of the advantages of the present invention.
Summary of the invention:
[009] The invention provides a Portable Cold Storage Box designed to preserve perishable fruits and vegetables through adjustable temperature control, allowing both cooling and heating settings to meet the specific needs of different produce types. It is powered by a combination of solar energy, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and electricity, ensuring continuous operation even in areas with limited access to power. The box's portable design and durable construction make it ideal for use in remote or rural areas, offering a flexible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for extending the shelf life of agricultural products. By reducing spoilage and waste, this invention enhances food security and improves the quality and marketability of produce, making it an invaluable tool for post-harvest management.
Detailed description of the invention with accompanying drawings:
[010] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing a preferred embodiment thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its preparation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.
[011] The principal object of the invention is to develop and optimize a solar-powered chill preservation unit for perishable goods. The Portable Cold Storage Box is a revolutionary device designed to address the challenges of preserving perishable fruits and vegetables in post-harvest conditions, particularly in areas with limited access to reliable power sources. The invention integrates advanced temperature control technology, allowing users to adjust both cooling and heating settings according to the specific needs of different types of produce. This feature ensures optimal preservation conditions for various fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products, extending their shelf life and reducing spoilage.
[012] The device operates through a combination of solar energy, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and electricity, offering flexibility and sustainability. The solar panel captures sunlight and stores energy in the lithium-ion battery, enabling the box to function autonomously in off-grid locations. In cases where solar energy may not be sufficient, the device can be powered by electricity, ensuring reliable performance in diverse environments. The rechargeable battery allows for continuous operation, even in areas with inconsistent sunlight, providing a consistent power supply.
[013] The Portable Cold Storage Box is designed for portability and ease of use. It features durable, insulated materials that maintain consistent internal conditions, ensuring that the temperature inside the box remains stable. The box is equipped with a temperature controller, which allows users to set the desired cooling or heating temperature, thus providing a customized environment for different produce types. Radiator fans help circulate the air within the box, ensuring even distribution of temperature and efficient operation.
[014] In terms of construction, the box includes key components such as copper pipes and copper wires, which are integral to the cooling and heating systems, ensuring efficient heat transfer and temperature regulation. The combination of these materials ensures durability, reliability, and long-term performance.
[015] The portability of the storage box makes it an ideal solution for farmers and agricultural workers in rural or remote areas. Its compact size allows it to be easily transported from one location to another, providing a convenient and flexible storage option wherever it is needed. This design is particularly beneficial for areas with limited access to cold storage infrastructure, helping reduce post-harvest losses and improving food security.
[016] By maintaining the quality and freshness of agricultural products, the Portable Cold Storage Box significantly enhances the marketability of produce, reduces food waste, and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices. It offers a practical, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution to the global challenge of post-harvest preservation.
Figure1. Components used according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[017] Without further elaboration, the foregoing will so fully illustrate my invention, that others may, by applying current of future knowledge, readily adapt the same for use under various conditions of service. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Advantages over the prior art
[018] Development and optimization of a solar-powered chill preservation unit for perishable goods proposed by the present invention has the following advantages over the prior art:
1. Sustainability: Powered by solar energy, rechargeable batteries, and electricity, the device provides an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for preserving perishable goods, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and minimizing environmental impact.
2. Portability: Its compact and lightweight design allows for easy transportation, making it ideal for use in remote or rural areas where access to centralized cold storage facilities may be limited. Farmers can move the box to different locations as needed.
3. Versatile Temperature Control: The adjustable temperature control system allows users to set both cooling and heating conditions to suit the specific requirements of different produce types, optimizing preservation and extending shelf life.
4. Reduced Post-Harvest Losses: By maintaining optimal temperature conditions, the storage box helps to reduce spoilage and waste, which is a significant issue for fruits and vegetables. This results in less food waste and improved food security.
5. Cost-Effective: The use of solar energy and rechargeable batteries reduces ongoing operational costs, making it an affordable solution for farmers, particularly in areas with limited access to electricity. It also helps preserve produce for longer periods, improving marketability and profit.
6. Improved Quality and Marketability: By extending the shelf life of perishable goods, the Portable Cold Storage Box helps maintain the quality, freshness, and appearance of fruits and vegetables, enhancing their market value and ensuring they reach consumers in optimal condition.
7. Durable Construction: The box is made from high-quality, insulated materials that maintain consistent internal conditions, ensuring efficient operation over time and protecting the produce from temperature fluctuations.
8. Adaptability: The device can function in various environments, including areas with unreliable electricity, and provides a reliable alternative to traditional cold storage solutions, which may not be accessible in many regions.
9. Improved Food Security: By reducing food loss and extending the shelf life of agricultural products, this invention contributes to greater food security, especially in developing regions where access to reliable preservation systems is limited.
10. Energy Independence: The combination of solar power and rechargeable batteries allows farmers to operate the system without being dependent on grid power, which is particularly beneficial in off-grid locations.
[019] In the preceding specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. Therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. The actual scope of the invention is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.

, Claims:We claim:
1. Development and optimization of a solar-powered chill preservation unit for perishable goods comprising of:
- a temperature control system capable of adjusting to both cooling and heating conditions;
- a solar panel configured to provide power to the system;
- a rechargeable battery for storing energy generated by the solar panel;
- a power input for connecting to an external power source for supplementary energy supply;
- an insulated enclosure for maintaining a consistent internal temperature; and
- a temperature controller for setting and regulating the internal temperature.
2. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system includes a cooling module and a heating module, allowing the box to maintain both low and high temperatures for different types of produce.
3. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, further comprising copper pipes for efficient heat transfer within the cooling and heating modules.
4. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is made from durable, lightweight plastic material with thermal insulation properties for energy efficiency.
5. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the power input is configured to accept electricity from a grid or other external power source to provide supplemental power when solar energy is insufficient.
6. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, further comprising radiator fans for improving air circulation and maintaining even temperature distribution inside the box.
7. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the lithium-ion rechargeable battery is designed to operate for a predefined period without the need for external power input, ensuring energy independence.
8. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the box is portable and includes handles or wheels for easy transportation between different locations.
9. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the temperature controller is programmable and includes a digital display for monitoring and adjusting the internal temperature.
10. The portable cold storage box of claim 1, wherein the solar panel is configured to charge the battery during daylight hours and automatically switch to battery power when sunlight is insufficient.

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