The Operation Analysis of the Innovative MainBox Food Storage Device

Magdalena Wróbel-Jędrzejewska,Elżbieta Polak

doi:10.3390/app11167682

Magdalena Wróbel-Jędrzejewska, Elżbieta Polak

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/app11167682

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Abstract

The development and construction of a prototype device (food parcel locker), consisting of small cooling and freezing chambers (boxes) ensuring temperature conditions (+5 C or −18 °C), enabling food storage were carried out. The innovative solutions have been introduced in the MainBox device: the appropriate construction of the device (materials, cooling installation), properly functioning systems (control of chillers, security, temperature monitoring), and propane as refrigerant (high energy efficiency, low global warming potential). The risk of explosion has been eliminated by closing of the cooling installation and reducing of propane amount. The refrigeration unit has been adapted to work in external conditions by installing additional elements (pressure switches for compressor protection and for condensing pressure control). In real conditions, the operation of the innovative MainBox food storage device allowing the receipt of food products without having to wait for a supplier was verified. The temperature distribution in all chambers of the cooling and freezing module was investigated using a thermal imaging camera and a temperature monitoring system. The correct operation of MainBox devices was verified during their loading with food products that require specific temperature conditions during storage.

Highlights

Ensuring food safety and quality is a particular challenge in the face of population growth [1,2]
There is a need for e-retailers and other companies participating in the e-commerce supply chain to develop a variety of strategies [9]
An exemplary record of the internal temperatures monitoring in the chambers of the cooling and freezing modules recorded temperature amplitude of approximately 3 ◦ C and 6 ◦ C, respectively (Figures 4 and 5)

Summary

Introduction

Ensuring food safety and quality is a particular challenge in the face of population growth [1,2]. The procedures for maintaining the stable conditions under which chilled or frozen food products must be stored are referred to as cold chain [3,4]. New food distribution channels are sought that would facilitate its delivery in appropriate storage conditions (temperature) and at a convenient time [6]. There is a need for e-retailers and other companies participating in the e-commerce supply chain to develop a variety of strategies [9]. Food storage equipment enables convenient distribution of products ordered online. In the case of chilled and frozen products, deviation from the required temperature in any of the links in the cold chain may result in lower quality or product spoilage and pose a health risk [11]

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