Portable cooler with active temperature control

A portable cooler container with active temperature control system is provided. The active temperature control system is operated to heat or cool a chamber of a vessel to approach a temperature set point suitable for a medication stored in the cooler container.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The invention is directed to a portable cooler (e.g., for medicine such as insulin, vaccines, epinephrine, etc.), and more particularly to a portable cooler with active temperature control.

Description of the Related Art

Certain medicine needs to be maintained at a certain temperature or temperature range to be effective (e.g., to maintain potency). Once potency of medicine (e.g., a vaccine, insulin, epinephrine) is lost, it cannot be restored, rendering the medicine ineffective and/or unusable. For example, injector pens are commonly used to deliver medication, such as epinephrine to counteract the effects of an allergic reaction (e.g., due to a peanut allergy, insect stings/bites, etc.). Users sometimes carry such medicine (e.g., medicine injector pens, cartridges for injector pens) with them (e.g., in a bag, purse, pocket, etc.) in the event they suffer an allergic reaction during the day. However, such medicine may be exposed to varying temperatures during the day (e.g., due to ambient temperature conditions, temperature conditions in the car, workplace, school, etc.), which can be outside the preferred temperature or temperature range for the medicine to be effective.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need for improved portable cooler designs (e.g., for storing and/or transporting medicine, such as epinephrine, vaccines, insulin, etc.) that can maintain the contents of the cooler at a desired temperature or temperature range. Additionally, there is a need for an improved portable cooler design with improved cold chain control and record keeping of the temperature history of the contents (e.g., medicine, such as epinephrine, vaccines, insulin, etc.) of the cooler (e.g., during storage and/or transport of the medicine, such as during a commute to work or school).

In accordance with one aspect, a portable cooler container (e.g., capsule) with active temperature control system is provided. The active temperature control system is operated to heat or cool a chamber of a vessel to approach a temperature set point suitable for a medication (e.g., epinephrine, insulin, vaccines, etc.) stored in the cooler container.

In accordance with another aspect, a portable cooler (or capsule) is provided that includes a temperature control system operable (e.g., automatically operable) to maintain the chamber of the cooler at a desired temperature or temperature range for a prolonged period of time. Optionally, the portable cooler is sized to house one or more containers (e.g., injector pens and/or cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.). Optionally, the portable cooler automatically logs (e.g., stores on a memory of the cooler) and/or communicates data on one or more sensed parameters (e.g., of the temperature of the chamber, battery charge level, etc.) to a remote electronic device (e.g., remote computer, mobile electronic device such as a smartphone or tablet computer). Optionally, the portable cooler can automatically log and/or transmit the data to the remote electronic device (e.g., automatically in real time, periodically at set intervals, etc.).

In accordance with another aspect, a portable cooler container (e.g., capsule) with active temperature control is provided. The container comprises a container body having a chamber configured to receive and hold one or more containers (e.g., injector pens, cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.), the chamber defined by a base and an inner peripheral wall of the container body. The container also comprises a temperature control system comprising one or more thermoelectric elements (e.g., Peltier elements) configured to actively heat or cool a heat sink component in thermal communication (e.g., in contact with) the one or more containers (e.g., medicine containers) in the chamber, and circuitry configured to control an operation of the one or more thermoelectric elements to heat or cool at least a portion of the heat sink component and/or chamber to a predetermined temperature or temperature range.

Optionally, the container can include one or more batteries configured to provide power to one or both of the circuitry and the one or more thermoelectric elements.

Optionally, the circuitry is further configured to wirelessly communicate with a cloud-based data storage system (e.g., remote server) or a remote electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer).

Optionally, the container includes a first heat sink in thermal communication with the chamber, the first sink being selectively thermally coupled to the one or more thermoelectric elements. Optionally, the first heat sink can removably extend into the chamber of the container and one or more containers (e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens, cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.) can releasably couple to the first heat sink (e.g., to one or more clip portions or slots of the first heat sink) so that the one or more containers are disposed in the chamber.

Optionally, the container includes a second heat sink in communication with the one or more thermoelectric elements (TECs), such that the one or more TECs are disposed between the first heat sink and the second heat sink.

Optionally, the second heat sink is in thermal communication with a fan operable to draw heat from the second heat sink.

In one implementation, such as where the ambient temperature is above the predetermined temperature or temperature range, the temperature control system is operable to draw heat from the first heat sink (and draw heat from the chamber), which transfers said heat to the one or more TECs, which transfer said heat to the second heat sink, where the optional fan dissipates heat from the second heat sink. The temperature control system can in this manner cool the first heat sink (and the chamber), thereby cooling the containers (e.g., medicine containers) in the chamber toward the predetermined temperature or temperature range.

In another implementation, such as where the ambient temperature is below the predetermined temperature or temperature range, the temperature control system is operable to add heat to the first heat sink (and add heat to the chamber), which transfers said heat from the one or more TECs. The temperature control system can in this matter heat the first heat sink (and the chamber), thereby heating the containers (e.g., medicine containers) in the chamber toward the predetermined temperature or temperature range.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-8show a container system100(e.g., capsule container) that includes a cooling system200. Optionally, the container system100has a container vessel120that is optionally cylindrical and symmetrical about a longitudinal axis Z, and one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the features shown in cross-section inFIGS. 4, 7 and 8defined by rotating them about the axis Z to define the features of the container100and cooling system200.

The container vessel120is optionally a cooler with active temperature control provided by the cooling system200to cool the contents of the container vessel120and/or maintain the contents of the vessel120in a cooled or chilled state. Optionally, the vessel120can hold therein one or more (e.g., a plurality of) separate containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens, vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), etc.). Optionally, the one or more (e.g., plurality of) separate containers150that can be inserted into the container vessel120can contain a medication or medicine (e.g., epinephrine, insulin, vaccines, etc.).

The container vessel120has an outer wall121that extends between a proximal end122that has an opening123and a distal end124having a base125. The opening123is selectively closed by a lid L removably attached to the proximal end122. As shown inFIG. 4, the vessel120has an inner wall126A and a base wall126B that together define an open chamber126that can receive and hold contents to be cooled therein (e.g., medicine containers, such as one or more vials, cartridges, injector pens, etc.). The vessel120can optionally have an intermediate wall126C spaced about the inner wall126A and base wall126B, such that the intermediate wall126C is at least partially disposed between the outer wall121and the inner wall126A. The intermediate wall126C is spaced apart from the inner wall126A and base wall126B so as to define a gap G between the intermediate wall126C and the inner wall126A and base wall126B. The gap G can optionally be under vacuum so that the inner wall126A and base126B are vacuum insulated relative to the intermediate wall126C and the outer wall121of the vessel120.

Optionally, one or more of the inner wall126A, intermediate wall126B and outer wall121can be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). In one implementation, the inner wall126A, base wall126B and intermediate wall126C are made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). In another implementation, one or more portions (e.g., outer wall121, intermediate wall126C and/or inner wall126A) of the vessel120can be made of plastic.

The vessel120has a cavity127between the base wall126B and a bottom275of the vessel120. The cavity127can optionally house one or more batteries277, and one or more printed circuit boards (PCBA)278with circuitry that controls the cooling system200. In one implementation, the cavity127can optionally house a power button or switch actuatable by a user through the bottom of the vessel275, as further described below. Optionally, the bottom275defines at least a portion of an end cap279attached to the outer wall121. Optionally, the end cap279is removable to access the electronics in the cavity127(e.g., to replace the one or more batteries277, perform maintenance on the electronics, such as the PCBA278, etc.). The power button or switch is accessible by a user (e.g., can be pressed to turn on the cooling system200, pressed to turn off the cooling system200, pressed to pair the cooling system200with a mobile electronic device, etc.). Optionally, the power switch can be located generally at the center of the end cap279(e.g., so that it aligns/extends along the longitudinal axis Z of the vessel120).

With continued reference toFIGS. 1-8, the cooling system200is optionally at least partially housed in the lid L that releasably closes the opening123of the vessel120. In one implementation, the lid L can releasably couple to the vessel120via one or more magnets in the lid L and/or in the vessel120. In other implementations, the lid L can releasably couple to the vessel120via other suitable mechanisms (e.g., threaded connection, key-slot connection, press-fit connection, etc.)

In one implementation, the cooling system200can include a first heat sink (cold side heat sink)210in thermal communication with one or more thermoelectric elements (TECs)220, such as Peltier element(s), and can be in thermal communication with the chamber126of the vessel120(e.g., via contact with the inner wall126A, via conduction with air in the chamber126, etc.). Optionally, cooling system200can include an insulator member (e.g., insulation material) disposed between the first heat sink210and a second heat sink230.

With continued reference toFIGS. 1-8, the TEC220is selectively operated (e.g., by the circuitry278) to draw heat from the first heat sink (e.g., cold-side heat sink)210and transfer it to the second heat sink (hot-side heat sink)230. A fan280is selectively operable to draw air into the lid L to dissipate heat from the second heat sink230, thereby allowing the TEC220to draw further heat from the first heat sink210, and thereby draw heat from the chamber126. During operation of the fan280, intake air flow Fi is drawn through one or more intake vents203(having one or more openings203A) in the lid L and over the second heat sink230(where the air flow removes heat from the second heat sink230), after which the exhaust air flow Fo flows out of one or more exhaust vents205(having one or more openings205A) in the lid L.

As shown inFIG. 4, the chamber126optionally receives and holds one or more (e.g., a plurality of) containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens or cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.). The first heat sink210can define one or more slots211that can receive and hold (e.g., resiliently receive and hold) one or more of the containers150. Therefore, during operation of the cooling system200, the first heat sink210is cooled, which thereby cools the one or more containers150coupled to the heat sink210. In one implementation, the first heat sink210can be made of aluminum. However, the first heat sink210can be made of other suitable materials (e.g., metals with high thermal conductivity).

The electronics (e.g., PCBA278, batteries277) can electrically communicate with the fan280and TEC220in the lid L via one or more electrical contacts (e.g., electrical contact pads, Pogo pins)281in the lid L (e.g., downward facing electrical contacts, contact pads or Pogo pins) that contact one or more electrical contacts (e.g., Pogo pins, electrical contact pads)282in the portion of the vessel120(e.g., upward facing electrical contacts, contact pads or Pogo pins) that engages the lid L. Advantageously, the electrical contacts281,282facilitate the coupling of the lid L to the vessel120,120′ in the correct orientation (alignment) to allow the contact between the electrical contacts282,281(e.g., provide a clocking feature). As shown inFIG. 3, the one or more electrical contacts282can be a set of eight contacts282that interface with an equal number of electrical contacts281in the lid L. However, different number of electrical contacts282,281are possible. Electrical leads can extend from the PCBA278along the side of the vessel120(e.g., between the outer wall121and the intermediate wall126C) to the electrical contacts282. Accordingly, power can be provided from the batteries277to the TEC220and/or fan280, and the circuitry (e.g., in or on the PCBA278) can control the operation of the TEC220and/or fan280, via one or more of the electrical contacts281,282when the lid L is coupled to the vessel120. As further discussed below, the lid L can have one or more sensors, and such sensors can communicate with the circuitry (e.g., in or on the PCBA278) via one or more of the electrical contacts281,282.

FIGS. 7-8schematically illustrate the container system100with the cooling system200and a vessel120′. The cooling system200is similar to the cooling system200in the container100ofFIGS. 1-7. Some of the features of the vessel120′ are similar to features in the vessel120inFIGS. 1-7. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the vessel120′ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the vessel120inFIGS. 1-7, except that a “′” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the cooling system200and vessel120inFIGS. 1-7are understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the cooling system200and vessel120′ inFIGS. 7-8, except as described below.

As shown inFIGS. 7-8, the vessel120′ includes a cylindrical chamber wall126D′ that defines the chamber126′ and is spaced inward (e.g., toward the center of the chamber126) of the inner wall126A′ and the base wall126B′ so as to define a gap G2′ between the chamber wall126D′ and the inner wall126A′ and base wall126B′. optionally, the gap G2′ is filled with a phase change material (PCM)130′. In one implementation, the phase change material130′ can be a solid-fluid PCM. In another implementation, the phase change material130′ can be a solid-solid PCM. The PCM130′ advantageously can passively absorb and release energy. Examples of possible PCM materials are water (which can transition to ice when cooled below the freezing temperature), organic PCMs (e.g., bio based or Paraffin, or carbohydrate and lipid derived), inorganic PCMs (e.g., salt hydrates), and inorganic eutectics materials. However, the PCM130′ can be any thermal mass that can store and release energy.

In operation, the cooling system200can be operated to cool the heat sink210to cool the one or more containers150that are coupled to the heat sink210, and to also cool the chamber126′. The cooling system200can optionally also cool the PCM130′ (e.g., via the chamber wall126D′). In one implementation, the cooling system200optionally cools the PCM130′ via conduction (e.g., contact) between at least a portion of the heat sink210and at least a portion of the chamber wall126D′ (e.g., near the opening123′ of the vessel120′). In another implementation, the cooling system200optionally cools the PCM130′ via conduction through the air in the chamber126′ between the heat sink210and the chamber wall126D′.

Advantageously, the PCM130′ operates as a secondary (e.g., backup) cooling source for the chamber126′ and/or the containers150′ (e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens, cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.) disposed in the chamber126′. For example, if the one or more intake vents203are partially (or fully) blocked (e.g., because they are up against a surface of a handbag, backpack, suitcase, during travel; due to dust accumulation in the vent openings203A) or if the cooling system200is not operating effectively due to low charge in the one or more batteries277, the PCM130′ can maintain the one or more containers150(e.g., injector pens, cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.) in a cooled state until the vents203are unblocked/unclogged, one or more batteries277are charged, etc. Though the phase change material130′ is described in connection with the chamber126′ and container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L one of skill in the art will recognize that it can also be applied to all the other implementations discussed herein for the chamber126,126′126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126H,126I,126J,126K and container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L.

The container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L disclosed herein can optionally communicate (e.g., one-way communication, two-way communication) with one or more remote electronic devices (e.g., mobile phone, tablet computer, desktop computer, remote server)600, via one or both of a wired or wireless connection (e.g., 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n standards, etc.). Optionally, the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L can communicate with the remote electronic device600via an app (mobile application software) that is optionally downloaded (e.g., from the cloud) onto the remote electronic device600. The app can provide one or more graphical user interface screens610via which the remote electronic device600can display one or more data received from the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L and/or information transmitted from the remote electronic device600to the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L. Optionally, a user can provide instructions to the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L via the one or more of the graphical user interface screens610on the remote electronic device600.

In one variation, the graphical user interface (GUI) screen610can provide one or more temperature presets corresponding to one or more particular medications (e.g., epinephrine/adrenaline for allergic reactions, insulin, vaccines, etc.). The GUI screen610can optionally allow the turning on and off of the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L. The GUI screen610can optionally allow the setting of the control temperature to which one or both of the first heat sink210and the chamber126,126′126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L in the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L is cooled by the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L.

In another variation, the graphical user interface (GUI) screen610can provide a dashboard display of one or more parameters of the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L (e.g., ambient temperature, internal temperature in the chamber126,126′,126′126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L temperature of the first heat sink210, temperature of the one or more batteries277, etc.). The GUI screen610can optionally provide an indication (e.g., display) of power supply left in the one or more batteries277(e.g., % of life left, time remaining before battery power drains completely). Optionally, the GUI screen610can also include information (e.g., a display) of how many of the slots or receptacles211in the first heat sink210are occupied (e.g., by containers150,150J). Optionally, the GUI screen610can also include information on the contents of the container100(e.g., medication type, such as insulin, or disease medication is meant to treat, such as Hepatitis, etc.) and/or information (e.g., name, identification no., contact info) for the individual to whom the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L belongs.

In another variation, the GUI screen610can include one or more notifications provided to the user of the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L disclosed herein, including alerts on battery power available, alerts on ambient temperature effect on operation of container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L alert on temperature of the first heat sink210, alert on temperature of the chamber126,126′,126E,126F,126G,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L alert on low air flow through the intake vent203and/or exhaust vent205indicating they may be blocked/clogged, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the app can provide the plurality of GUI screens610to the user, allowing the user to swipe between the different screens. Optionally, as discussed further below, the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K can communicate information, such as temperature history of the chamber126,126′,126E,126F,126G,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L temperature history of the first heat sink210and/or chamber126,126′,126E,126F,126G,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L that generally corresponds to the temperature of the containers150,150J, temperature of the container150,150J from a temperature sensor on the container150,150J, power level history of the batteries277, ambient temperature history, etc. to one or more of a) an RFID tag on the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L that can later be read (e.g., at the delivery location), b) to a remote electronic device (e.g., a mobile electronic device such as a smartphone or tablet computer or laptop computer or desktop computer), including wirelessly (e.g., via WiFi 802.11, BLUETOOTH®, or other RF communication), and c) to the cloud (e.g., to a cloud-based data storage system or server) including wirelessly (e.g., via WiFi 802.11, BLUETOOTH®, or other RF communication). Such communication can occur on a periodic basis (e.g., every hour; on a continuous basis in real time, etc.). Once stored on the RFID tag or remote electronic device or cloud, such information can be accessed via one or more remote electronic devices (e.g., via a dashboard on a smart phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L can store in a memory (e.g., part of the electronics in the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L) information, such as temperature history of the chamber126,126′,126E,126F,126G,126H,126I,126J,126K,126L temperature history of the first heat sink210, power level history of the batteries277, ambient temperature history, etc., which can be accessed from the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L by the user via a wired or wireless connection (e.g., via the remote electronic device600).

With reference toFIGS. 1-9, the body120of the container100can optionally have a visual display on the outer surface121of the body120. The visual display can optionally display one or more of the temperature in the chamber126,126′, the temperature of the first heat sink210, the ambient temperature, a charge level or percentage for the one or more batteries277, and amount of time left before recharging of the batteries277is needed, etc. The visual display can optionally include a user interface (e.g., pressure sensitive buttons, capacitance touch buttons, etc.) to adjust (up or down) the temperature preset at which the cooling system200is to cool the chamber126,126′. Accordingly, the operation of the container100(e.g., of the cooling system200) can be selected via the visual display and user interface on a surface of the container100. Optionally, the visual display can include one or more hidden-til-lit LEDs. Optionally, the visual display can include an electronic ink (e-ink) display. In one variation, the container100can optionally include a hidden-til-lit LED140that can selectively illuminate (e.g., to indicate one or more operating functions of the container100, such as to indicate that the cooling system200is in operation). The LED140can optionally be a multi-color LED selectively operable to indicate one or more operating conditions of the container100(e.g., green if normal operation, red if abnormal operation, such as low battery charge or inadequate cooling for sensed ambient temperature, etc.). Though the visual display is described in connection with the container system100, one of skill in the art will recognize that it can also be applied to all the other implementations discussed herein for the container system100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L.

In operation, the cooling system200can optionally be actuated by pressing a power button. Optionally, the cooling system200can additionally (or alternatively) be actuated remotely (e.g., wirelessly) via a remote electronic device600, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, etc. that wirelessly communicates with the cooling system200(e.g., with a receiver or transceiver of the circuitry278). In still another implementation, the cooling system200can automatically cool the chamber126,126′ when the lid L is coupled to the vessel120,120′ (e.g., upon receipt by the circuitry, for example in or on the PCBA278, of a signal, such as from a pressure sensor, proximity sensor, load sensor, light sensor) that the lid L has been coupled with the vessel120,120′). The chamber126,126′ can be cooled to a predetermined and/or a user selected temperature or temperature range, or automatically cooled to a temperature preset corresponding to the contents in the containers150(e.g., insulin, epinephrine, vaccines, etc.). The user selected temperature or temperature range can be selected via a user interface on the container100and/or via the remote electronic device600.

The circuitry278optionally operates the one or more TECs220so that the side of the one or more TECs220adjacent the first heat sink210is cooled to thereby cool the one or more containers150in thermal communication with (e.g., coupled to) the first heat sink210and so that the side of the one or more TECs220adjacent the one or more second heat sinks230is heated. The TECs220thereby cool the first heat sink210and thereby cools the containers150and/or the chamber126,126′. The container100can include one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors)155operable to sense a temperature of the chamber126,126′. As best shown inFIG. 7, the one or more sensors155can include a temperature sensor that extends through one or more of the prongs o the first heat sink210and protrudes from the first heat sink210into the chamber126,126′ when the lid L is coupled to the vessel120,120′. The one or more sensors155can communicate information to the circuitry278indicative of the sensed temperature(s) via the one or more electrical contacts281,282when the lid L is coupled to the vessel120,120′. The circuitry (e.g., in or on the PCBA278) operates one or more of the TECs220and one or more fans280based at least in part on the sensed temperature information (from the one or more sensors155) to cool the first heat sink210and/or the chamber126,126′ to the predetermined temperature (e.g., temperature preset) and/or user selected temperature. The circuitry operates the one or more fans280to flow air (e.g., received via the intake vents203) over the one or more second heat sinks230to dissipate heat therefrom, thereby allowing the one or more second heat sinks230to draw more heat from the one or more TECs220, which in turn allows the one or more TEC's220to draw more heat from (i.e., cool) the first heat sink210and optionally the chamber126,126′. Said air flow, once it passes over the one or more second heat sinks230, is exhausted via the exhaust vents205.

With reference toFIG. 2, a power base300can receive the container100thereon and can provide power to the electronics in the container100to, for example, charge the one or more batteries277or provide power directly to the TECs220and/or fan280. In one implementation, the power base300has an electrical cord that ends in an electrical connector (wall plug, USB connector), which allows the power base300to connect to a power source (e.g., wall outlet, USB connector of power source, such as a laptop or desktop computer). In one implementation, the power base300transmits power to the container100via inductive coupling. In another implementation, the power bae300transmits power to the container100via one or more electrical contacts (e.g., electrical contact pads, Pogo pins) that contact one or more electrical contacts (e.g., electrical contact pads, contact rings) on the container100(e.g., on the bottom275of the container100).

FIG. 6shows a power base300′ that can receive the container100thereon and can provide power to the electronics in the container100to, for example, charge the one or more batteries277or provide power directly to the TEC220and/or fan280. The power base300′ is similar to the power base300except as described below. In one implementation, the power base300′ has an electrical cord that ends in an electrical connector (for a car charger), which allows the power base300′ to connect to a car charger. Advantageously, the power base300′ is sized to fit in a cup holder of an automobile, allowing the container100to be placed in the cupholder while on the power base300′, keeping the container100in a substantially stable upright orientation.

In one variation, the container system100is powered using 12 VDC power (e.g., from one or more batteries277or power base300′). In another variation, the container system100is powered using 120 VAC or 240 VAC power, for example using the power base300. The circuitry278in the container100can include a surge protector to inhibit damage to the electronics in the container100from a power surge.

FIG. 9shows a block diagram of a communication system for (e.g., incorporated into) the devices described herein (e.g., the one or more container systems100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L). In the illustrated embodiment, circuitry EM (e.g., on the PCBA278) can receive sensed information from one or more sensors S1-Sn (e.g., level sensors, volume sensors, temperature sensors, such as sensors155, battery charge sensors, biometric sensors, load sensors, Global Positioning System or GPS sensors, radiofrequency identification or RFID reader, etc.). The circuitry EM can be housed in the container, such as in the vessel120,120′,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K (e.g., bottom of vessel120,120′,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K,120L side of vessel120,120′,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K,120L as discussed above) or in a lid L of the container. The circuitry EM can receive information from and/or transmit information (e.g., instructions) to one or more heating or cooling elements HC, such as the TEC220,220E,220F1,220F2,220G,220L (e.g., to operate each of the heating or cooling elements in a heating mode and/or in a cooling mode, turn off, turn on, vary power output of, etc.) and optionally to one or more power storage devices PS (e.g., batteries277,277E,277F,277L such as to charge the batteries or manage the power provided by the batteries to the one or more heating or cooling elements220,220E,220F1,220F2,220G,220L).

Optionally, the circuitry EM can include a wireless transmitter, receiver and/or transceiver to communicate with, e.g., transmit information, such as sensed temperature, position data, to and receive information, such as user instructions, from one or more of: a) a user interface UI1on the unit (e.g., on the body of the vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K,120L), b) an electronic device ED (e.g., a mobile electronic device such as a mobile phone, PDA, tablet computer, laptop computer, electronic watch, a desktop computer, remote server), c) the cloud CL (e.g., a cloud-based data storage system), or d) communicate via a wireless communication system such as WiFi and Bluetooth BT. The electronic device ED (such as electronic device600) can have a user interface UI2(such as GUI610), that can display information associated with the operation of the container system, and that can receive information (e.g., instructions) from a user and communicate said information to the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L (e.g., to adjust an operation of the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L).

In operation, the container system100can operate to maintain one or both of the first heat sink210and the chamber126,126′ of the vessel120,120′ at a preselected temperature or a user selected temperature. The cooling system200can operate the one or more TECs220to cool the first heat sink210and, optionally the chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L (e.g., if the temperature of the first heat sink210or chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L is above the preselected temperature, such as when the ambient temperature is above the preselected temperature) or to heat the first heat sink210and, optionally chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L (e.g., if the temperature of the first heat sink210or chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L is below the preselected temperature, such as when the ambient temperature is below the preselected temperature). The preselected temperature may be tailored to the contents of the container (e.g., a specific medication, a specific vaccine, insulin pens, epinephrine pens or cartridges, etc.), and can be stored in a memory of the container100, and the cooling system200or heating system, depending on how the temperature control system is operated, can operate the TEC220to approach the preselected or set point temperature.

Optionally, the circuitry EM can communicate (e.g., wirelessly) information to a remote location (e.g., cloud based data storage system, remote computer, remote server, mobile electronic device such as a smartphone or tablet computer or laptop or desktop computer) and/or to the individual carrying the container (e.g., via their mobile phone, via a visual interface on the container, etc.), such as a temperature history of the first heat sink210,210E1,210E2,210F1,210F2,210L and/or chamber126,126′126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L to provide a record that can be used to evaluate the efficacy of the medication in the container and/or alerts on the status of the medication in the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L. Optionally, the temperature control system (e.g., cooling system, heating system)200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L automatically operates the TEC220,220E,220F1,220F2,220L to heat or cool the first heat sink210,210E1,210E2,210F1,210F2,210L and, optionally, the chamber126,126′,120E,120F1,210F2of the vessel120,120′,120E,120F to approach the preselected temperature. In one implementation, the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L can cool and maintain one or both of the chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F1,126G1,126L and the containers150at or below 15 degrees Celsius, such as at or below 10 degrees Celsius, in some examples at approximately 5 degrees Celsius.

In one implementation, the one or more sensors S1-Sn can include one more air flow sensors in the lid L that can monitor airflow through one or both of the intake vent203and exhaust vent205. If said one or more flow sensors senses that the intake vent203is becoming clogged (e.g., with dust) due to a decrease in air flow, the circuitry EM (e.g., on the PCBA278) can optionally reverse the operation of the fan280,280E,280F for one or more predetermined periods of time to draw air through the exhaust vent205and exhaust air through the intake vent203to clear (e.g., unclog, remove the dust from) the intake vent203. In another implementation, the circuitry EM can additionally or alternatively send an alert to the user (e.g., via a user interface on the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L, wirelessly to a remote electronic device such as the user's mobile phone via GUI610) to inform the user of the potential clogging of the intake vent203, so that the user can inspect the container100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L and can instruct the circuitry EM (e.g., via an app on the user's mobile phone) to run an “cleaning” operation, for example, by running the fan280,280E,280F in reverse to exhaust air through the intake vent203.

In one implementation, the one or more sensors S1-Sn can include one more Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors for tracking the location of the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J,100K,100L. The location information can be communicated, as discussed above, by a transmitter and/or transceiver associated with the circuitry EM to a remote location (e.g., a mobile electronic device, a cloud-based data storage system, etc.).

In another variation, the circuitry278and one or more batteries277can be in a removable pack (e.g., DeWalt battery pack) that attaches to the distal end124of the vessel120,120′,120E,120F, where one or more contacts in the removable pack contact one or more contacts on the distal end124of the vessel120,120′,120E,120F120G. The one or more contacts on the distal end124of the vessel120,120′,120E,120F,120G are electrically connected (via one or more wires or one or more intermediate components) with the electrical connections on the proximal122of the vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K, or via as discussed above, to provide power to the components of the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L.

FIGS. 10A-10Bshow a container system100E (e.g., capsule container) that includes a cooling system200E. The container system100E and cooling system200E are similar to the container system100and cooling system200described above in connection withFIGS. 1-8. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container vessel100E and cooling system200E are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100and cooling system200inFIGS. 1-8, except that an “E” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100and cooling system200inFIGS. 1-8is understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container system100E and cooling system200E inFIGS. 10A-10B, except as described below.

The container system100E differs from the container system100in that the opening123E in the vessel120E has an oval shape and the open chamber126E has an oval cross-section. The chamber126E is sized to receive a pair of containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) side-by-side therein. The container100E has electrical contacts282E that can interface with electrical contacts281E in the lid L.

The lid L can have a pair of spaced apart plates211E1,211E2that can hold the pair of containers (e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) therebetween, such as in slots between the plates211E1,211E2. The plates211E1,211E2can be part of the first heat sink210E in thermal communication with one or more TECs220E, such as Peltier element(s), and be in thermal communication with the chamber126E of the vessel120E (when the lid L is attached to the vessel120E. As shown inFIG. 10B, the plates211E1,211E2can be interposed between the containers150(medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) and the inner wall126AE of the chamber126E.

The chamber126E can be approximately ½ as large as the chamber126of vessel120(which is sized to hold up to four containers150). The other half of the vessel100E can house one or more batteries277E therein. The chamber126E can be insulated (e.g., vacuum insulated) relative to the outer wall121E of the vessel120E.

FIGS. 11A-11Cshow a container system100F (e.g., capsule container) that includes a cooling system200F. The container system100F and cooling system200F are similar to the container system100and cooling system200described above in connection withFIGS. 1-8. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100F and cooling system200F are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100and cooling system200inFIGS. 1-8, except that an “F” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100and cooling system200inFIGS. 1-8is understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container vessel100F and cooling system200F inFIGS. 11A-11C, except as described below.

The container system100F differs from the container system100in that the vessel120F has two openings123F1,123F2at the top of two separate and spaced apart chambers126F1,126F2. Optionally, the openings123F1,123F2has a circular shape and each of the chambers126F1,126F2has a circular cross-section. Each of the chambers126F1,126F2is sized to receive a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) side-by-side therein. The container vessel100F has two separate groups of electrical contacts282F1,282F2that can interface with electrical contacts281F1,281F2in the lid L.

The lid L can have a pair of spaced apart heat sinks210F1,210F2, each sized to resiliently hold one container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.), for example in a slot defined by the heat sinks210F1,210F2. Each of the heat sinks210F1,210F2can be in thermal communication with a separate TEC220F1,220F2, which in turn can optionally be in thermal communication with separate second heat sinks (not shown) in the lid L. As discussed inFIGS. 1-8, the cooling system200F can have one or more fans280F operable to draw air over the second heat sinks (not shown) in the lid L. The chambers126F1,126F2can be insulated (e.g., vacuum insulated) relative to each other and relative to the outer wall121F of the vessel100F.

Advantageously, the heat sinks210F1,210F2can be operated independently of each other. Accordingly, in one implementation both heat sinks210F1,210F2are operable to cool the containers150to the approximately the same temperature (e.g., down to approximately 5 degrees Celsius) when the containers150are in the chambers126F1,126F2and the lid L is disposed on top of the vessel120F to seal the vessel120F. In another implementation both heat sinks210F1,210F2are operable to cool the containers150to different temperatures when the containers150are in the chambers126F1,126F2and the lid L is disposed on top of the vessel120F to seal the vessel120F. In another implementation, for example when a user is ready or almost ready to consume the medicine in the container100F, one of the heat sinks210F1can be heated to heat its associated container150(e.g., to a predetermined consumption or administration temperature, for example to body temperature, to room temperature), while the other heat sink210F2cools its associated container150in the associated chamber126F2. In still another implementation, both heat sinks210F1,210F2are operated to heat their associated containers150(e.g., to the same temperature, to different temperatures).

FIGS. 12A-12Cshow a container system100G (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200G. The container system100G and cooling system200G are similar to the container system100F and cooling system200F described above in connection withFIGS. 11A-11C. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100G and cooling system200G are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100F and cooling system200F inFIGS. 11A-11C, except that a “G” instead of an “F” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100F and cooling system200F inFIGS. 11A-11Cis understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container vessel100G and cooling system200G inFIGS. 12A-12C, except as described below. For clarity,FIG. 12Aonly shows one chamber126G1, but can have two chambers126G1,126G2similar to chambers126F1,126F2described above. Optionally, the chamber(s)126G1,126G2are removable from the container system100G, as further described below.

The container system100G differs from the container system100F in that the heat sink210G1is a removable sleeve210G1that removably couples to the container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.). The sleeve210G1can be made of a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metal, such as aluminum). The sleeve210G1can be removed along with the container150from the container vessel120G (e.g., for placement in a user's purse, backpack, work bag during a commute or travel, etc.). Optionally, the sleeve210G1can maintain the container150in a cooled state for an extended period of time (e.g., between about 1 hour and about 10 hours, between about 1 hour and about 5 hours, between about 1 hour and about 3 hours, about 2 hours, etc.). When the sleeve210G1is coupled with the container150and inserted into the chamber126G1, the sleeve210G1can interface with the cooling system200G and operate as a heat transfer interface between the cooling system200G (e.g., between one or more TECs220G of the cooling system200G and the container150) to help cool and/or heat the container150. For example, when the cooling system200G is used to cool the container150, the sleeve210G1can function as a heat sink to remove heat (e.g., cool) the container150that is attached to the sleeve210G1.

With reference toFIG. 12C, the sleeve210G1can have a top surface210G2, an outer wall210G3and an inner wall210G4, where at least a portion of the inner wall210G4can be in contact with the container150when the sleeve210G1is coupled to the container150. Optionally, the sleeve210G1can define a cavity (e.g., an annular cavity)210G5between the outer wall210G3and the inner wall210G4. In one implementation, the cavity210G5can house a thermal mass material130G. In one implementation, the thermal mass material130G is a phase change material PCM (e.g., a solid-solid PCM, a solid-fluid PCM) that can transition from a heat absorbing state to a heat releasing state at a transition temperature. In another implementation, the cavity210G5is excluded and the sleeve210G1instead has a wall that extends between the inner surface210G4and the outer wall210G3with a thermal surface that can absorb and release heat.

The sleeve210G1can optionally include a heater210G6(e.g., a flex heater) in thermal communication with the inner wall210G4(e.g., the heater210G6can be disposed on the inner wall210G4, embedded in the inner wall210G4, disposed behind the inner wall210G4(e.g., disposed in the cavity210G5. The sleeve210G1can have one or more electrical contacts210G7on a surface thereof (e.g., on the top surface210G2). The one or more electrical contacts210G7can be in electrical communication with the heater210G6. In another implementation, the sleeve210G1can exclude the heater210G6and one or more electrical contacts210G7.

In operation, while the sleeve210G1is coupled to the container150and inserted into the container vessel120G with the lid L in the closed position relative to the container vessel120G, the cooling system200G can operate to cool one or both of the chamber126G1and the sleeve210G1. For example, one or more TECs220G of the cooling system200G can cool a heat sink surface that contacts the top surface210G2of the sleeve210G1, thereby also being placed in thermal communication with the inner wall210G4, outer wall210G3and optional thermal mass130G (e.g., PCM) in the cavity210G5. The TECs220G can thereby cool the sleeve210G1and thereby cool the container150attached to it, as well as charge the optional thermal mass130G (e.g., PCM). Optionally, where the sleeve210G1includes the heater210G6, a controller of the system200G can operate the heater210G6to heat the contents of the container150(e.g., to room temperature, body temperature) prior to the container150being removed from the container vessel120G for use (e.g. for application of the contents of the container to the user, such as via an injector pen). For example, the controller can provide power to the heater210G6via the electrical contacts210G7that contact electrical contacts in the lid L when the lid L is in a closed position relative to the container vessel100.

In one implementation, once the cooling system200G has cooled the sleeve210G1and its attached container150, the user can optionally remove the sleeve210G1with its attached container150from the container vessel120G, as described above (e.g., for travel, commute, etc.) and the charged thermal mass130G can maintain the container150attached to the sleeve210G1in a cooled state for an extended period of time, as discussed above.

FIG. 13shows another implementation of a chamber126G1in the container system100G (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200G. As discussed above, the chamber126G1can receive a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) attached to the sleeve210G1. The chamber126G1can be actuated between a retracted position and an extended position in the container vessel100G. As shown inFIG. 13, the chamber126G1can be spring loaded within the container vessel100G. A guide430can guide the movement of the chamber126G1between the retracted and extended position.

In one implementation, the chamber126G1can have an actuation mechanism400that can optionally include a spring410that extends between a bottom of the chamber126G1and a cam420. The spring410can be a compression spring. In one implementation, the cam240can move between a first orientation to position the chamber126G1in the retracted position and a second orientation to position the chamber126G2in the extended position. The movement of the cam240to change its orientation can be actuated by pushing down on the sleeve210G1(e.g., on the top surface210G2of the sleeve210G1). Movement of the chamber126G1to the extended position can facilitate removal of the container150(e.g., with the attached sleeve210G1) from the chamber126G1(e.g., when ready for use by the user, as discussed above).

Optionally, with the chamber126G1in the extended position, and with the container150in the chamber126G1and attached to the sleeve210G1, movement of the lid L to the closed position relative to the container vessel120G can urge the chamber126G1into the container vessel120G and actuate the movement of the cam420to allow the chamber126G1to move to the retracted position. Though the actuation mechanism400is described in connection with the chamber126G1and container system100G, one of skill in the art will recognize that the features of the actuation mechanism400described herein can also be applied to all the other implementations discussed herein for the container system100,100E,100F,100G.

FIGS. 14A-14Bshows another implementation of a chamber126G1in the container system100G (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200G. As discussed above, the chamber126G1can receive a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) attached to the sleeve210G1. The chamber126G1can be actuated between a retracted position and an extended position in the container vessel120G. As shown inFIG. 14A-14B, the chamber126G1can be actuated between the retracted position and the extended position by an actuation mechanism400′. The actuation mechanism400′ can optionally be housed in the container vessel120G below the chamber126G1(e.g., between a bottom of the chamber126G1and a bottom of the container vessel120G). A guide430can guide the movement of the chamber126G1between the retracted and extended position.

With reference toFIG. 14B, the actuation mechanism400′ can include a linear actuator410′ and a motor420′ operable to drive the linear actuator410′. The linear actuator410′ can optionally include a coupling that couples to an output shaft of the motor420′. The coupling412′ is coupled to a ball screw414′ that rotates when the motor420′ rotates the coupling412′. The ball screw414′ rotates relative to a ball screw nut416′, where the ball screw nut416′ travels along the ball screw414′ as the motor420′ rotates the coupling412′ (e.g., travels rightward in the drawing when coupling412′ rotates in one direction and travels leftward in the drawing when the coupling412′ rotates in the opposite direction). The ball screw nut416′ can be attached to a rod such that the rod translates (at least partially within a bushing419′) along the axis of the ball screw414′ as the screw414′ rotates. An end of the rod418′ can engage a bottom of the chamber126G1to move the chamber126G1between the retracted and extended position relative to the container vessel120G. however, in other implementations, the actuation mechanism400′ can be other suitable linear motion mechanisms (e.g., instead of an electric motor420′ can include a pneumatic or hydraulic system to translate the rod418′). Though the actuation mechanism400′ is described in connection with the chamber126G1and container vessel120G, one of skill in the art will recognize that the features of the actuation mechanism400′ described herein can also be applied to all the other implementations discussed herein for the container vessel100,100E,100F,100G.

FIG. 15shows another implementation of a chamber126G1in the container system100G (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200G. As discussed above, the chamber126G1can receive a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) attached to the sleeve210G1. The chamber126G1can be actuated between a retracted position and an extended position in the container vessel120G. As shown inFIG. 15, the chamber126G1can be actuated between the retracted position and the extended position by an actuation mechanism400″. The actuation mechanism400″ can optionally be housed in the lid L. Though not shown, a guide (similar to guide430) can guide the movement of the chamber126G1between the retracted and extended position.

With reference toFIG. 15, the actuation mechanism400″ can include a magnet420″. In one implementation, the magnet420″ can be an electromagnet. In operation, the electromagnet420″ can be operated to draw the sleeve210G1(e.g., the top surface210G2of the sleeve210G1) into contact with a heat sink surface and/or one or more TECs220G to place the sleeve210G1(and therefore the container150coupled to the sleeve210G1) in thermal communication with the one or more TECs220G, which can be operated to cool the sleeve210G1and/or container150and/or the chamber126G1. The electromagnet420″ can be turned off or not operated to allow the sleeve210G1(and container150attached to it) to be displaced from the heat sink and/or one or more TECs220G to thereby thermally disconnect the container150and sleeve210G1from the TECs220G. The electromagnet420″ can be turned off or disengaged when, for example, the user wishes to remove the container150and sleeve210G1from the container vessel120G (e.g., for storing in another compartment, such as a purse, backpack, travel bag, etc. during a commute or trip). Though the actuation mechanism400″ is described in connection with the chamber126G1and container vessel120G, one of skill in the art will recognize that the features of the actuation mechanism400″ described herein can also be applied to all the other implementations discussed herein for the container vessel100,100E,100F,100G.

In another implementation, the container system100,100E,100F,100G can have chambers126,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1that can be completely removed from the container vessel120,120E,120F,120F, such as for travel or commute, where the chamber can hold the container150(e.g., vial, cartridge (such as for use in injector pen), injector pen, etc.) therein (e.g., provide a travel pack) until the container150is ready for use.

FIGS. 16A-16Cshow a container system100H (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200H. The container system100H and cooling system200H are similar to the container system100G and cooling system200G described above in connection withFIGS. 12A-12C. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100H and cooling system200H are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100G and cooling system200G inFIGS. 12A-12C, except that an “H” instead of a “G” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100G and cooling system200G inFIGS. 12A-12Cis understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16A-16C, except as described below.

As shown inFIG. 16, the container system100H has a container vessel120H and a lid L. The lid L can include a cooling system200G. The container vessel120H can optionally have one or more chambers126H that extend to corresponding one or more openings123H. ThoughFIG. 16shows the container vessel120H having six chambers126H, one of skill in the art will recognize that the container vessel120H can have more or fewer chambers126H than shown inFIG. 16. The chamber(s)126H of the container vessel120H can removably hold a corresponding capsule210H therein. In one implementation, the container vessel120H can have the same or similar structure as shown and described above for the container vessel120,120E,120F,120G. Optionally, the container vessel120H can have a cavity between the chamber(s)126H and the outer surface of the container vessel120H that is vacuum insulated. In another implementation, the container vessel120H excludes vacuum insulation and can instead have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126H and an outer surface of the container vessel120H that is filled with air. In still another implementation, the container vessel120H can have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126H and an outer surface of the container vessel120H that includes an insulating material.

With continued reference toFIG. 16, the capsule(s)210H have a vessel portion210H1and a lid portion210H2that together can enclose a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.). The lid portion210H2can be moved between a closed position relative to (e.g., adjacent) the vessel portion210H1and an open position relative to (e.g., spaced apart from) the vessel portion210H1. In the closed position, the lid portion210H2can optionally be held against the vessel portion210H1(e.g., by one or more magnetic surfaces of the lid portion210H2and/or vessel portion210H1) to inhibit (e.g., prevent) the container150from inadvertently falling out of the capsule210H.

FIG. 16Ashows one implementation of a capsule210H, where the vessel portion210H1and lid portion210H2have an outer surface210H3and an inner surface210H4that defines a cavity210H8that receives the container150. The vessel portion210H1and lid portion210H2can also have one or more intermediate walls210H6radially between the inner surface210H4and the outer surface210H3that define a first cavity210H5between the inner wall210H4and the intermediate wall(s)210H6and a second cavity210H9between the intermediate wall(s)210H6and the outer surface210H3. Optionally, the second cavity210H5can be vacuum insulated (i.e., the second cavity210H5can be under vacuum or negative pressure force). Optionally, the first cavity210H5can house a thermal mass material130H. In one implementation, the thermal mass material130H is a phase change material PCM (e.g., a solid-solid PCM, a solid-fluid PCM) that can transition from a heat absorbing state to a heat releasing state at a transition temperature. In another implementation, the cavity210H5is excluded and the capsule210H instead has a wall that extends between the inner surface210H4and the intermediate wall(s)210H6that can absorb and release heat.

With continued reference toFIG. 16A, the capsule210H has a thermally conductive contact210H7at one or both ends of the capsule210H. The thermally conductive contact210H7can be made of metal, though is can be made of other thermally conductive material. In one implementation, the thermally conductive contact210H7is made of copper. The thermally conductive contact210H can extend from the outer surface210H3to the inner surface210H4and through the first and second cavities210H5,210H9, so as to be in thermal contact with the thermal mass material130H.

In operation, when a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) is inserted into the capsule210H (e.g. into the vessel portion210H1and lid portion210H2) and then inserted into the chamber126H, and the lid L closed over the container vessel120H, the thermally conductive contact(s)210H7will be placed in thermal communication (e.g., thermally contact, directly contact) with a cold-side heat sink of the cooling system200G (e.g., similar to the heat sink210inFIG. 4) that is itself in thermal communication with one or more TECs (e.g., similar to TEC220inFIG. 4), where the one or more TECs are operated to remove heat from (e.g., cool) the cold side heat sink, which in turn removes heat from (e.g., cools) the thermally conductive contact(s)210H7. The thermally conductive contact(s)210H7in turn remove heat from the cavity210H8to thereby cool the container150, as well as remove heat from the thermal mass material130H in the cavity210H5to thereby charge the thermal mass material130H. In one implementation, the cold side heat sink thermally contacts one of the thermally conductive contacts210H7. In another implementation, the cold side heat sink thermally contacts both of the thermally conductive contacts210H7. For example, the cold side heat sink in the lid L can thermally contact the thermally conductive contact210H7at one end of the capsule210H as well as thermally contact an inner wall of the chamber126H that itself contacts the thermally conductive contact210H7at the opposite end of the capsule210H.

The capsule210H can be removed along with the container150(e.g., one at a time, two at a time, etc.) from the container vessel120H (e.g., for placement in a user's purse, backpack, work bag during a commute or travel, etc.). Optionally, the capsule210H can maintain the container150in a cooled state for an extended period of time (e.g., between about 1 hour and about 15 hours, about 14 hours, between about 1 hour and about 10 hours, between about 1 hour and about 3 hours, about 2 hours, etc.). The capsule210H can maintain the container150approximately at a temperature of about 2-8 degrees Celsius. When the capsule210H receives or houses the container150and is then inserted into the chamber126H of the container vessel120H, the capsule210H can interface with the cooling system200H and operate as a heat transfer interface between the cooling system200H (e.g., between one or more TECs220H of the cooling system200H and the container150) to help cool and/or heat the container150. For example, when the cooling system200H is used to cool the container150, the capsule210H can function as a heat sink to remove heat (e.g., cool) the container150that is disposed in the capsule210H.

In one implementation, the cooling system200H receives power via a power cord PC that can be connected to a wall outlet. However, the power cord PC can have other suitable connectors that allow the cooling system200H to receive power from a power source other than a wall outlet. Power can be provided from the container vessel120H, to which the power cord PC is connected, to the cooling system200H in the lid via one or more electrical contacts on a rim of the container vessel120H and on the lid L (e.g., similar to electrical contacts282described above in connection withFIG. 3). In another implementation, the power cord PC is excluded and the container vessel120H can have one or more batteries (such as batteries277inFIG. 4) that provide power to the cooling system200H (e.g., via electrical contacts, such as contacts282inFIG. 3) when the lid L is disposed over the container vessel120H.

FIGS. 16B-16Cshow another implementation of the capsule210H′ for use with a container system100H′ and cooling system200H′. The capsule210H′, container system100H′ and cooling system200H′ are similar to the capsule210H, container system100H and cooling system200H described above in connection withFIGS. 16-16A. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the capsule210H, container system100H and cooling system200H are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the capsule210H′, container system100H′ and cooling system200H′ inFIGS. 16B-16C, except that an “′” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the capsule210H, container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16-16Ais understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the capsule210H′, container system100H′ and cooling system200H′ inFIGS. 16B-16C, except as described below.

The capsule210H′ differs from the capsule210H in that the thermally conductive contact(s)210H7are excluded. The capsule210H′ has a movable mass162H disposed in the cavity210H9′ between the intermediate wall210H6′ and the outer wall210H3′. The movable mass162H can optionally be a magnet. In another implementation, the movable mass162H can be a metal block. The movable mass162H can optionally be movably coupled to the intermediate wall210H6′ by a flexible thermally conductive element164H, which operates as a thermal bridge between the movable mass162H and the thermal mass material130H′. In one implementation, the flexible thermally conductive element164H can be made of copper. However, the flexible thermally conductive element164H can be made of other suitable thermally conductive materials. The flexible thermally conductive element164H can be a leaf spring or similar resilient member that is attached at one end to the intermediate wall210H6′ and at its other end to the movable mass162H. The movable mass162H can optionally move within the second cavity210H9′ (e.g., a vacuum insulated cavity) between a first position where it is in contact with the intermediate wall210H6′ and a second position where it is in contact with the outer wall210H3′ of the capsule210H′.

The container vessel120H′ can include one or more magnets160H adjacent a wall of the chamber(s)126H′. In one implementation, the one or more magnets160H are permanent magnets. In another implementation, the one or more magnets160H are electromagnets. The one or more magnets160H can be in thermal communication with a cold side heat sink of the cooling system200H′ (e.g., via a wall or surface of the container vessel120H′, such as a wall of the chamber(s)126H′ that interfaces with the cold side heat sink when the lid L is placed on the container vessel120H′).

In operation, when a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) is inserted into the capsule210H′ (e.g. into the vessel portion210H1′ and lid portion210H2′) and then inserted into the chamber126H′, and the lid L closed over the container vessel120H′, the one or more magnets160H in the container vessel120H′ draw the movable mass162H into contact with the outer wall210H3′ of the capsule210H′. The cooling system200H′ draws heat out of the cavity210H8′ of the capsule210H′ (e.g., via operation of one or more TECs to draw heat from cold side heat sink, which itself draws heat from surfaces of components in the container vessel120H′ in thermal communication with the magnet160H) by drawing heat from the thermal mass material130H′ via the flexible thermally conductive element164H and contact between the movable mass162H, outer wall210H3′ and magnet160H. As heat is drawn from the thermal mass material130H′ to charge it, it also draws heat from the cavity210H8′ via the inner wall210H4′. The magnet160H and movable mass162H (e.g., magnet, metallic component) therefore operate to form a thermal bridge through the cavity210H9′ (e.g., vacuum insulated cavity) to the thermal mass material130H′.

The capsule210H′ can be removed along with the container150(e.g., one at a time, two at a time, etc.) from the container vessel120H′ (e.g., for placement in a user's purse, backpack, work bag during a commute or travel, etc.). Optionally, the capsule210H′ can maintain the container150in a cooled state for an extended period of time (e.g., between about 1 hour and about 15 hours, about 14 hours, between about 1 hour and about 10 hours, between about 1 hour and about 3 hours, about 2 hours, etc.). The capsule210H′ can maintain the container150approximately at a temperature of about 2-8 degrees Celsius.

The capsule(s)210H,210H′ can optionally have a wireless transmitter and/or transceiver and a power source (e.g., battery) disposed therein (e.g., disposed in the cavity210H9,210H9′), and can have a temperature sensors in communication with the cavity210H8,210H8′ (e.g., in thermal contact with the inner wall210H4,210H4′). The wireless transmitter and/or transceiver can optionally allow connectivity of the capsule(s)210H,210H′ with an electronic device (e.g., a mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone), such as via an app on the electronic device, and can transmit sensed temperature information to the electronic device for tracking of internal temperature of the capsule210H′,210H. Optionally, the transmitter and/or transceiver can transmit an alert signal to the electronic device (e.g., visual alert, audible alert), such as a notification via the app, if the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature range (e.g., predetermined temperature range, preselected temperature limit) for the medication in the container150. When the capsule210H,210H′ is inserted into the chamber126H,126H′ of the container vessel120H,120H′, the transmitter and/or transceiver can also wirelessly transmit sensed temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor to the electronic device. Optionally, when in the container vessel120H,120H′, the battery in the capsule(s)210H,210H′ can be recharged (e.g., via induction power transfer, or via electrical contacts). In addition to maintaining the container150(and medication in the container150) at or below a predetermined temperature range (e.g., 2-8 degrees C.) for a prolonged period of time (e.g., up to 14 hours, up to 10 hours, up to 5 hours, up to 3 hours, etc.), the capsule(s)210H,210H′ can protect the container150therein from damage (e.g., breaking, spillage) if the capsule210H,210H′ is dropped.

FIGS. 17-17Bshow a container system100I (e.g., a capsule container) that includes a cooling system200I. The container system100I and cooling system200I are similar to the container system100H and cooling system200H described above in connection withFIGS. 16-16A. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100I and cooling system200I are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16-16A, except that an “I” instead of an “H” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16-16Ais understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container system100I and cooling system200I inFIGS. 17-17B, except as described below.

As shown inFIG. 17, the container system100I has a container vessel120I and a lid L. The lid L can include a cooling system200I. The container vessel120I can optionally have one or more chambers126I that extend to corresponding one or more openings123I, each chamber126I sized to receive and hold a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.). ThoughFIG. 17shows the container vessel120I having six chambers126I, one of skill in the art will recognize that the container vessel120I can have more or fewer chambers126I than shown inFIG. 17. Optionally, the container vessel120I can have a chamber126I2that extends to an opening123I2, the chamber126I2sized to receive a capsule210I, which itself can hold one or more (e.g., one, two, etc.) containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.), as further described below.

In one implementation, the container vessel120I can have the same or similar structure as shown and described above for the container vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H. Optionally, the container vessel120I can have a cavity between the chamber(s)126I and the outer surface of the container vessel120I that is vacuum insulated. In another implementation, the container vessel120I excludes vacuum insulation and can instead have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126I and an outer surface of the container vessel120I that is filled with air. In still another implementation, the container vessel120I can have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126I and an outer surface of the container vessel120I that includes an insulating material.

FIG. 17A-17Bshows one implementation of a capsule210I having a vessel portion210I1and a lid portion210I2(attached via a hinge211I) that together can enclose one or more containers150(e.g., two containers150inFIG. 17A). The hinge211I allows the lid portion210I2to be moved between a closed position an open position relative to the vessel portion210I1. In the closed position, the lid portion210I2can optionally be held against the vessel portion210I1(e.g., by one or more magnetic surfaces of the lid portion210I2and/or vessel portion210I1) to inhibit (e.g., prevent) the container150from inadvertently falling out of the capsule210I.

The vessel portion210I1and lid portion210I2have an outer surface210I3and an inner surface210I4that defines a cavity210I8that receives the container(s)150. The vessel portion210I1and lid portion210I2can also have an intermediate wall210I6radially between the inner surface210I4and the outer surface210I3that define a first cavity210I5between the inner wall210I4and the intermediate wall210I6and a second cavity210I9between the intermediate wall210I6and the outer surface210I3. Optionally, the second cavity210I5can be vacuum insulated (i.e., the second cavity210I5can be under vacuum or negative pressure force). Optionally, the first cavity210I5can house a thermal mass material130I. In one implementation, the thermal mass material130I is a phase change material PCM (e.g., a solid-solid PCM, a solid-fluid PCM) that can transition from a heat absorbing state to a heat releasing state at a transition temperature. In another implementation, the cavity210I5is excluded and the capsule210I instead has a wall that extends between the inner surface210I4and the intermediate wall(s)210I6that can absorb and release heat.

In operation, when a container150(e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) is inserted into the capsule210I (e.g. into the vessel portion210I1) and then inserted into the chamber126I, and the lid L closed over the container vessel120I, the lid portion210I2can be in the open position relative to the vessel portion210I1(seeFIG. 17, 17A), allowing the thermal mass material130I in the cavity210I5to be placed in thermal communication (e.g., thermally contact, directly contact) with a cold-side heat sink of the cooling system200I (e.g., similar to the heat sink210inFIG. 4) that is itself in thermal communication with one or more TECs (e.g., similar to TEC220inFIG. 4), where the one or more TECs are operated to remove heat from (e.g., cool) the cold side heat sink, which in turn removes heat from (e.g., cools) the thermal mass material130I and cavity210I8in the capsule210I, as well as any containers150in the capsule210I.

The capsule210I can be removed along with one or more containers150(e.g., one at a time, two at a time, etc.) from the container vessel120I (e.g., for placement in a user's purse, backpack, work bag during a commute or travel, etc.). Optionally, the capsule210I can maintain the container(s)150in a cooled state for an extended period of time (e.g., between about 1 hour and about 15 hours, about 14 hours, between about 1 hour and about 10 hours, between about 1 hour and about 3 hours, about 2 hours, etc.). The capsule210I can maintain the container150approximately at a temperature of about 2-8 degrees Celsius.

The capsule210I can optionally have a wireless transmitter and/or transceiver and a power source (e.g., battery) disposed therein (e.g., disposed in the cavity210I9), and can have a temperature sensors in communication with the cavity210I8(e.g., in thermal contact with the inner wall210I4). The wireless transmitter and/or transceiver can optionally allow connectivity of the capsule210I with an electronic device (e.g., a mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone), such as via an app on the electronic device, and can transmit sensed temperature information to the electronic device for tracking of internal temperature of the capsule210I. Optionally, the transmitter and/or transceiver can transmit an alert signal to the electronic device (e.g., visual alert, audible alert), such as a notification via the app, if the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature range (e.g., predetermined temperature range, preselected temperature limit) for the medication in the container150. When the capsule210I is inserted into the chamber126I of the container vessel120I, the transmitter and/or transceiver can also wirelessly transmit sensed temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor to the electronic device. Optionally, when in the container vessel120I, the battery in the capsule(s)210I can be recharged (e.g., via induction power transfer, or via electrical contacts). In addition to maintaining the container150(and medication in the container150) at or below a predetermined temperature range (e.g., 2-8 degrees C.) for a prolonged period of time (e.g., up to 14 hours, up to 10 hours, up to 5 hours, up to 3 hours, etc.), the capsule210I can protect the container150therein from damage (e.g., breaking, spillage) if the capsule210I is dropped.

In one implementation, the cooling system200I receives power via a power cord PC that can be connected to a wall outlet. However, the power cord PC can have other suitable connectors that allow the cooling system200I to receive power from a power source other than a wall outlet. Power can be provided from the container vessel120I, to which the power cord PC is connected, to the cooling system200I in the lid via one or more electrical contacts on a rim of the container vessel120I and on the lid L (e.g., similar to electrical contacts282described above in connection withFIG. 3). In another implementation, the power cord PC is excluded and the container vessel120I can have one or more batteries (such as batteries277inFIG. 4) that provide power to the cooling system200I (e.g., via electrical contacts, such as contacts282inFIG. 3) when the lid L is disposed over the container vessel120I.

FIGS. 18-18Bshow a container system100J (e.g., a cartridge container) that includes a cooling system200J. The container system100J and cooling system200J are similar to the container system100H and cooling system200H described above in connection withFIGS. 16-16A. Thus, references numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100J and cooling system200J are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16-16A, except that a “J” instead of an “H” is added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various components of the container system100H and cooling system200H inFIGS. 16-16Ais understood to also apply to the corresponding components of the container system100J and cooling system200J inFIGS. 18-18B, except as described below.

As shown inFIG. 18, the container system100J has a container vessel120J and a lid L. The lid L can include a cooling system200J. The container vessel120J can optionally have one or more chambers126J that extend to corresponding one or more openings123J, each chamber126J sized to receive and hold a container150J (e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.). In FIG.16, the container150J is a cartridge that can be separately inserted into an injector device (e.g., injector pen)170J (seeFIG. 18B), as discussed further below. The container vessel120J differs from the container vessel120H in that the opening(s)123J and chamber(s)126J are sized to receive container(s)150J that are cartridges. ThoughFIG. 18shows the container vessel120J having six chambers126J, each being sized to removably receive a container150J (e.g., a cartridge), one of skill in the art will recognize that the container vessel120J can have more or fewer chambers126J than shown inFIG. 18.

In one implementation, the container vessel120J can have the same or similar structure as shown and described above for the container vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I and can maintain the container(s)150in a cooled state of approximately at a temperature of about 2-8 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the container vessel120J can have a cavity between the chamber(s)126J and the outer surface of the container vessel120J that is vacuum insulated. In another implementation, the container vessel120J excludes vacuum insulation and can instead have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126J and an outer surface of the container vessel120J that is filled with air. In still another implementation, the container vessel120J can have a gap or cavity between the chamber(s)126J and an outer surface of the container vessel120J that includes an insulating material.

FIG. 18Ashows one implementation of a container150J (e.g. a cartridge, an injector pen) that can optionally house a medication (e.g., epinephrine, insulin, a vaccine, etc.). the container150J can have a temperature sensor152J and a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag or chip154J, with the temperature sensors152J being in communication (e.g., electrically connected) with the RFID chip154J. The RFID chip154J can store temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor152J. Advantageously, the temperature sensor152J can track the temperature of the container150J from when it leaves the distribution center to when it arrives at a person's (consumer's) home, and to when it needs to be administered. The temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor152J is stored in the RFID chip154J, thereby providing a temperature history of the container150J from when it leaves the distribution center to when it arrives at a person's (consumer's) home, and to when it needs to be administered. In one implementation, the container vessel120J can have an optional RFID reader that can read the RFID chip154J once the container150J is inserted into the chamber126J of the container vessel120J to capture the temperature history stored in the RFID chip154J. Optionally, the container system100J can inform the user (e.g., via one or both of a graphical user interface on the container vessel120J and an app on an electronic device paired with the container system100J) that the medication in the container150J (e.g., cartridge) can be delivered (e.g., that the temperature history read from the RFID chip154J indicates the medication in the container150J has been maintained within a predetermined temperature range, so that the medication is deemed effective for delivery).

FIG. 18Bshows an injection device170J (e.g., auto injection device) into which the container150J can be inserted prior to use (e.g., prior to application of the auto injection device on the user to deliver a medication in the container150J, such as via a needle of the injection device170J). When the container150J (e.g., cartridge) is removed from the container vessel120J and placed into the injection device170J, an optional RFID reader in the injection device170J can read the RFID chip154J and send an alert to the user (via one or both of a graphical user interface on the injection device170J and an app on an electronic device paired with the injection device170J) that the medication can be delivered (e.g., that the temperature history read from the RFID chip154J indicates the medication in the container150has been maintained within a predetermined temperature range, so that the medication is deemed effective for delivery).

In operation, when a container150J (e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, etc.) is inserted into the chamber126J, and the lid L closed over the container vessel120J, the container150J can optionally be placed in thermal communication (e.g., thermally contact, directly contact) with a cold-side heat sink of the cooling system200J (e.g., similar to the heat sink210inFIG. 4) that is itself in thermal communication with one or more TECs (e.g., similar to TEC220inFIG. 4), where the one or more TECs are operated to remove heat from (e.g., cool) the cold side heat sink, which in turn removes heat from (e.g., cools) the container(s)150J in the vessel container120J.

Optionally, the container150J can optionally have a wireless transmitter and/or transceiver and a power source (e.g., battery) disposed therein. The wireless transmitter and/or transceiver can optionally allow connectivity of the container150J with an electronic device (e.g., a mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone), such as via an app on the electronic device, and can transmit sensed temperature information (from the temperature sensor152J) to the electronic device for tracking of internal temperature of the container150J (e.g., in addition to or in place of tracking the sensed temperature history of the container150J via the RFID chip154J). Optionally, the transmitter and/or transceiver can transmit an alert signal to the electronic device (e.g., visual alert, audible alert), such as a notification via the app, if the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature range (e.g., predetermined temperature range, preselected temperature limit) for the medication in the container150J. When the container150J is inserted into the chamber126J of the container vessel120J, the transmitter and/or transceiver can also wirelessly transmit sensed temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor152J to the electronic device. Optionally, when in the container vessel120J, the battery in the container150J can be recharged (e.g., via induction power transfer, or via electrical contacts).

In one implementation, the cooling system200J receives power via a power cord PC that can be connected to a wall outlet. However, the power cord PC can have other suitable connectors that allow the cooling system200J to receive power from a power source other than a wall outlet. Power can be provided from the container vessel120J, to which the power cord PC is connected, to the cooling system200J in the lid via one or more electrical contacts on a rim of the container vessel120J and on the lid L (e.g., similar to electrical contacts282described above in connection withFIG. 3). In another implementation, the power cord PC is excluded and the container vessel120J can have one or more batteries (such as batteries277inFIG. 4) that provide power to the cooling system200J (e.g., via electrical contacts, such as contacts282inFIG. 3) when the lid L is disposed over the container vessel120J.

FIG. 19Ashows a container system100K (e.g., a medicine cooler container) that includes a cooling system200K. Though the container system100K has a generally box shape, in other implementations it can have a generally cylindrical or tube shape, similar to the container system100,100E,100F,100G,100H,100I,100J. In one implementation, the cooling system200K can be in the lid L of the container system100K and can be similar to (e.g., have the same or similar components as) the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J. In another implementation, the cooling system can be disposed in a portion of the container vessel120K (e.g. a bottom portion of the container vessel120K).

As shown inFIG. 19A, the container system100K can include a display screen180K. ThoughFIG. 19Ashows the display screen180K on the lid L, it can alternatively (or additionally) be incorporated into a side surface122K of the container vessel120K. The display screen180K can be an electronic ink or E-ink display (e.g., electrophoretic ink display). In another implementation, the display screen180K can be a digital display (e.g., liquid crystal display or LCD, light emitting diode or LED, etc.). Optionally, the display screen180K can display a label182K (e.g., a shipping label with one or more of an address of sender, an address of recipient, a Maxi Code machine readable symbol, a QR code, a routing code, a barcode, and a tracking number). The container system100K can also include a user interface184K. InFIG. 19A, the user interface184K is a button on the lid L. In another implementation, the user interface184K is disposed on the side surface122K of the container vessel120K. In one implementation, the user interface184K is a depressible button. In another implementation, the user interface184K is a capacitive sensor (e.g., touch sensitive sensor). In another implementation, the user interface184K is a sliding switch (e.g., sliding lever). In another implementation, the user interface184K is a rotatable dial. Advantageously, actuation of the user interface184K can alter the information shown on the display180K, such as the form of a shipping label shown on an E-ink display180K. For example, actuation of the user interface184K, can switch the text associated with the sender and receiver, allowing the container system100K to be shipped back to the sender once the receiving party is done with it.

FIG. 19Bshows a block diagram of electronics500of the container system100K. The electronics500can include circuitry EM′ (e.g., including one or more processors on a printed circuit board). The circuitry EM′ communicate with one or more batteries PS′, with the display screen180K, and with the user interface184K. Optionally, a memory module185K is in communication with the circuitry EM′. In one implementation, the memory module185K can optionally be disposed on the same printed circuit board as other components of the circuitry EM′. The circuitry EM′ optionally controls the information displayed on the display screen180K. Information (e.g., sender address, recipient address, etc.) can be communicated to the circuitry EM′ via an input module186K. The input module186K can receive such information wirelessly (e.g., via radiofrequency or RF communication, via infrared or IR communication, via WiFi 802.11, via BLUETOOTH®, etc.), such as using a wand (e.g., a radiofrequency or RF wand that is waved over the container system100K, such as over the display screen180K, where the wand is connected to a computer system where the shipping information is contained). Once received by the input module186K, the information (e.g., shipping information for a shipping label to be displayed on the display screen180K can be electronically saved in the memory module185K). Advantageously, the one or more batteries PS′ can power the electronics500, and therefore the display screen180K for a plurality of uses of the container100K (e.g., during shipping of the container system100K up to one-thousand times).

FIG. 20Ashows a block diagram of one method700A for shipping the container system100K. At step710, one or more containers, such as containers150,150J (e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, vaccines, medicine such as insulin, epinephrine, etc.) are placed in the container vessel120K of the container system100K, such as at a distribution facility for the containers150,150J. At step720, the lid L is closed over the container vessel120K once finished loading all containers150,150J into the container vessel120K. Optionally, the lid L is locked to the container vessel120K (e.g., via a magnetically actuated lock, including an electromagnet actuated when the lid is closed that can be turned off with a code, such as a digital code). At step730, information (e.g., shipping label information) is communicated to the container system100K. For example, as discussed above, a radiofrequency (RF) wand can be waved over the container system100K (e.g., over the lid L) to transfer the shipping information to the input module186K of the electronics500of the container system100K. At step740, the container system100K is shipped to the recipient (e.g., displayed on the shipping label182K on the display screen180K).

FIG. 20Bshows a block diagram of a method700B for returning the container100K. At step750, after receiving the container system100K, the lid L can be opened relative to the container vessel120K. Optionally, prior to opening the lid L, the lid L is unlocked relative to the container vessel100K (e.g., using a code, such as a digital code, provided to the recipient from the shipper). At step760, the one or more containers150,150J are removed from the container vessel120K. At step770, the lid L is closed over the container vessel120K. At step780, the user interface184K (e.g., button) is actuated to switch the information of the sender and recipient in the display screen180with each other, advantageously allowing the return of the container system100K to the original sender to be used again without having to reenter shipping information on the display screen180K. The display screen180K and label182K advantageously facilitate the shipping of the container system100K without having to print any separate labels for the container system100K. Further, the display screen180K and user interface184K advantageously facilitate return of the container system100K to the sender (e.g. without having to reenter shipping information, without having to print any labels), where the container system100K can be reused to ship containers150,150J (e.g., medicine containers, such as vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), injector pens, vaccines, medicine such as insulin, epinephrine, etc.) again, such as to the same or a different recipient. The reuse of the container system100K for delivery of perishable material (e.g., medicine) advantageously reduces the cost of shipping by allowing the reuse of the container vessel120K (e.g., as compared to commonly used cardboard containers, which are disposed of after one use).

FIGS. 21A-21Dshow different screens of a graphical user interface (GUI) used on a remote electronic device (e.g., mobile electronic device, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer). The GUI advantageously allows a user to interface with the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L provide control settings (e.g., temperature presets for different medications in the containers150,150J), provide scheduling information (e.g., for the consumption of medication in the containers150,150J), provide alerts (e.g., battery life of the cooling system, temperature of the container(s)150,150J). The GUI can provide additional information not shown on the screens inFIGS. 21A-21D. Via the GUI, a user can communicate with the cooling system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L when they are ready to ingest the contents of the container150,150J and the system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L can optionally heat one of the containers150,150J a predetermined temperature (e.g., body temperature, room temperature) and optionally alert the user when ready (via the GUI) to notify the user when the contents (e.g., medication) is ready for consumption. Optionally, where the container vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K,120L includes more than one container150,150J, the user can communicate via the GUI with the system200,200E,200F,200G,200H,200I,200J,200K,200L to prepare (e.g., heat) one of the containers (e.g., to body temperature) while the rest of the containers150,150J in the container vessel100remain in a cooled state. Optionally, once the container150,150J has been prepared (e.g., heated), in addition to notifying the user that the contents (e.g., medication) in the container150,150J is ready for consumption, it can also actuate the chamber126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L to move it to the extended position (e.g., via one of the linear actuation mechanisms disclosed herein) so when the user removes the lid from the container vessel120,120E,120F,120G,120H,120I,120J,120K,120L the user can readily identify which of the containers150,150J is the one that is ready for consumption (e.g., which one has been heated to room temperature or body temperature), while the rest of the chambers126,126′,126E,126F1,126F2,126G1,126L remain in the retracted position.

FIGS. 22A-22Bshow a container system100L (e.g., capsule container) that includes a cooling system200L. Some of the features of the container system100L and cooling system200L are similar to features of the container system100-100K and cooling system200-200K inFIGS. 1-19A. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various components of the container system100L and cooling system200K are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the container system100-100K and cooling system200-200K inFIGS. 1-19A, except that an “L” has been added to the numerical identifier. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the container system100-100K and cooling system200-200K and how it's operated and controlled inFIGS. 1-19Aare understood to apply to the corresponding features of the container system100L and cooling system200L inFIG. 22A-22B, except as described below.

The container system100L has a container vessel120L that is optionally cylindrical. The container vessel120L is optionally a cooler with active temperature control provided by the cooling system200L to cool the contents of the container vessel120L and/or maintain the contents of the vessel120L in a cooled or chilled state. Optionally, the vessel120L can hold therein one or more (e.g., a plurality of) separate containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens, vials, cartridges (such as for injector pens), etc.). Optionally, the one or more (e.g., plurality of) separate containers150that can be inserted into the container vessel120L can contain a medication or medicine (e.g., epinephrine, insulin, vaccines, etc.).

The container vessel120L has an outer wall121L that extends between a proximal end122L that has an opening and a distal end124L having a base125L. The opening is selectively closed by a lid L removably attached to the proximal end122L. the vessel120L has an inner wall126AL and a base wall126BL that together define an open chamber126L that can receive and hold contents to be cooled therein (e.g., medicine containers, such as one or more vials, cartridges, injector pens, etc.). The vessel120L can optionally have an intermediate wall126CL spaced about the inner wall126AL and base wall126BL, such that the intermediate wall126CL is at least partially disposed between the outer wall121L and the inner wall126AL. The intermediate wall126CL is spaced apart from the inner wall126AL and base wall126BL so as to define a gap between the intermediate wall126CL and the inner wall126AL and base wall126B. The gap can optionally be under vacuum so that the inner wall126AL and base126BL are vacuum insulated relative to the intermediate wall126CL and the outer wall121L of the vessel120L.

Optionally, one or more of the inner wall126AL, intermediate wall126BL and outer wall121L can be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). In one implementation, the inner wall126AL, base wall126BL and intermediate wall126CL are made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). In another implementation, one or more portions (e.g., outer wall121L, intermediate wall126CL and/or inner wall126AL) of the vessel120L can be made of plastic.

The vessel120L has a cavity127L between the base wall126BL and the base125L of the vessel120L. The cavity127L can optionally house electronics, such as, for example, one or more batteries277L and one or more printed circuit boards (PCBA) with circuitry that controls the operation of the cooling system200L. In one implementation, the cavity127L can optionally house a power button or switch actuatable by a user through the bottom of the vessel200L. Optionally, at least a portion of the base125L (e.g. a cap of the base125L) is removable to access the electronics in the cavity127L (e.g., to replace the one or more batteries277L, perform maintenance on the electronics, such as the PCBA, etc.). The power button or switch is accessible by a user (e.g., can be pressed to turn on the cooling system200L, pressed to turn off the cooling system200L, pressed to pair the cooling system200L with a mobile electronic device, etc.). Optionally, the power switch can be located generally at the center of the base125L.

The cooling system200L is optionally at least partially housed in the vessel120L. In one implementation, the cooling system200L can include a first heat sink (cold side heat sink)210L in thermal communication with one or more thermoelectric elements (TECs)220L, such as Peltier element(s), and can be in thermal communication with the chamber126L of the vessel120L (e.g., via contact with the inner wall126AL, via conduction with air in the chamber126L, etc.). The first heat sink210L portion outside the vessel120L communicates with the first heat sink210L portion inside the vessel120L via a first heat sink210L portion (e.g., bridge portion) that interconnects the portions of the first heat sink210L outside and inside the vessel120L.

The one or more TECs220L are selectively operated (e.g., by the circuitry) to draw heat from the first heat sink (e.g., cold-side heat sink)210L and transfer it to the second heat sink (hot-side heat sink)230L. A fan280L is selectively operable to draw air into the vessel120L (e.g., into a channel FP of the vessel120L) to dissipate heat from the second heat sink230L, thereby allowing the TECs220L to draw further heat from the first heat sink210L, and thereby draw heat from the chamber126L. During operation of the fan280L, intake air flow Fi is drawn through one or more intake vents203L (having one or more openings) in the vessel120L and over the second heat sink230L (where the air flow removes heat from the second heat sink230L), after which the exhaust air flow Fo flows out of one or more exhaust vents205L (having one or more openings) in the vessel120L.

The chamber126L optionally receives and holds one or more (e.g., a plurality of) containers150(e.g., medicine containers, such as injector pens or cartridges for injector pens, vials, etc.). In one implementation, the first heat sink210L can be made of aluminum. However, the first heat sink210L can be made of other suitable materials (e.g., metals with high thermal conductivity).

The electronics (e.g., PCBA, batteries277L) can electrically communicate with the fan280L and TECs220L. Accordingly, power can be provided from the batteries277L to the TECs220L and/or fan280L, and the circuitry (e.g., in or on the PCBA) can control the operation of the TECs220L and/or fan280L.

The container100L can optionally have a visual display on the outer surface121L of the vessel120L (e.g., on the lid L). The visual display can optionally display one or more of the temperature in the chamber126L, the temperature of the first heat sink210L, the ambient temperature, a charge level or percentage for the one or more batteries277L, and amount of time left before recharging of the batteries277L is needed, etc. The visual display can optionally include a user interface (e.g., pressure sensitive buttons, capacitance touch buttons, etc.) to adjust (up or down) the temperature preset at which the cooling system200L is to cool the chamber126L. Accordingly, the operation of the container100L (e.g., of the cooling system200L) can be selected via the visual display and user interface on a surface of the container100L. Optionally, the visual display can include one or more hidden-til-lit LEDs. Optionally, the visual display can include an electrophoretic or electronic ink (e-ink) display. In one variation, the container100L can optionally include a hidden-til-lit LED that can selectively illuminate (e.g., to indicate one or more operating functions of the container100L, such as to indicate that the cooling system200L is in operation). The LED can optionally be a multi-color LED selectively operable to indicate one or more operating conditions of the container100L (e.g., green if normal operation, red if abnormal operation, such as low battery charge or inadequate cooling for sensed ambient temperature, etc.).

In operation, the cooling system200L can optionally be actuated by pressing a power button. Optionally, the cooling system200L can additionally (or alternatively) be actuated remotely (e.g., wirelessly) via a remote electronic device, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, etc. that wirelessly communicates with the cooling system200L (e.g., with a receiver or transceiver of the circuitry). In still another implementation, the cooling system200L can automatically cool the chamber126L when the lid L is in a closed position on the vessel120L. The chamber126L can be cooled to a predetermined and/or a user selected temperature or temperature range, or automatically cooled to a temperature preset corresponding to the contents in the containers150(e.g., insulin, epinephrine, vaccines, etc.). The user selected temperature or temperature range can be selected via a user interface on the container100L and/or via the remote electronic device.

In one variation, the container system100L is powered using 12 VDC power (e.g., from one or more batteries277L or a power base on which the vessel120L is placed). In another variation, the container system100L is powered using 120 VAC or 240 VAC power, for example using a power base. The circuitry in the container100L can include a surge protector to inhibit damage to the electronics in the container100L from a power surge. The container system100L is advantageously easy to assemble and simpler to use. For example, inclusion of the cooling system200in the vessel120L makes it easier for users with limitations in hand articulation (e.g., users suffering from arthritis) to open the lid L (e.g., because it is lighter or weighs less) to remove the container(s)150(e.g., vaccines, insulin, medical containers) from the chamber126L. The lid L can optionally be insulated (e.g., be made of a hollow plastic body filled with foam insulation, such as light density Styrofoam).

While certain embodiments of the inventions have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. For example, though the features disclosed herein are in described for medicine containers, the features are applicable to containers that are not medicine containers (e.g., portable coolers for food, chilled water cooler/bottle, etc.) and the invention is understood to extend to such other containers. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the systems and methods described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present inventions is defined only by reference to the appended claims.