HK1250254B - Refrigeration devices including temperature-controlled container systems - Google Patents

Description

Refrigeration unit including temperature-controlled container system

All subject matter of the priority application is incorporated herein by reference to the extent that the subject matter is not inconsistent herewith.

Summary of the Invention

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the liquid-impermeable container being configured to retain a phase change material within the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; and a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area; and a connector, the hollow interior space of the connector being attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the container being configured to retain phase change material within the interior space of the refrigeration device, wherein the one or more walls integrally include a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of which are connected to form a condenser; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils, the evaporator coils being located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area and integrally include a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the second set of vapor-impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form an evaporator; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator, wherein the condenser, evaporator and connector form a heat transfer system integral to the refrigeration device.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the container being configured to retain a phase change material within the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; a sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG5 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the areas of a refrigeration unit.

FIG7 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device.

FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the areas of a refrigeration unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof. Similar symbols in the drawings typically represent similar components unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein.

Various aspects of refrigeration devices are described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is sized, shaped, and configured for use as a home refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is sized, shaped, and configured for use as a home refrigerator appliance. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is sized, shaped, and configured for use as a commercial refrigerator appliance. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is sized, shaped, and configured for use as a medical refrigeration device, such as in a clinic or health station in an area with uncertain or intermittent power supply.

The refrigeration devices described herein are configured to provide continuous temperature control to at least one storage area within each refrigeration device. The refrigeration devices described herein are designed to provide continuous temperature control to at least one storage area within the refrigeration device even when the refrigeration device is unable to operate on regular power (e.g., during a power outage). Specifically, it is contemplated that the refrigeration devices described herein will be useful in locations where intermittent or variable power is provided to the refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range indefinitely, while the refrigeration device has an average of approximately 10% available electrical power. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range indefinitely, while the refrigeration device has an average of approximately 5% available electrical power. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range indefinitely, while the refrigeration device has an average of approximately 1% available electrical power. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range indefinitely, while the refrigeration device has an average of approximately 1% available electrical power. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range for at least 30 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device can be configured to maintain an internal storage area or area within a predetermined temperature range for at least 50 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 70 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 90 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 110 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 130 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 150 hours. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration unit can be configured to maintain the internal storage area or areas within the predetermined temperature range for at least 170 hours.

Items that are sensitive to temperature extremes can be stored in one or more storage areas of a refrigeration unit so that the items are maintained within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time, even when power to the refrigeration unit is interrupted. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient outside temperature is between -10°C and 43°C, a refrigeration unit without access to power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient outside temperature is between 25°C and 43°C, a refrigeration unit without access to power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for a period of time. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient outside temperature is between 35°C and 43°C, a refrigeration unit without access to power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for a period of time. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient outside temperature is between -35°C and 43°C, a refrigeration unit without access to power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for at least one week. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient external temperature is between -35°C and 43°C, the refrigeration device without access to electrical power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for at least two weeks. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient external temperature is between -35°C and 43°C, the refrigeration device without access to electrical power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for at least 30 days. For example, in some embodiments, when the ambient external temperature is below -10°C, the refrigeration device without access to electrical power is configured to maintain the temperature of one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for a period of time.

As used herein, a "refrigeration unit" refers to a device having an internal storage area that utilizes an external power source at least part of the time and is configured to store material at a temperature below ambient temperature for a period of time. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit includes two internal storage areas. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit includes more than two internal storage areas. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit includes two or more internal storage areas, each storage area being configured to maintain the internal temperature within a different temperature range. Typically, the refrigeration unit includes an active refrigeration system. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit is powered by a municipal power source. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit is powered by a solar system. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit is powered by a battery. In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit is powered by a generator (such as a diesel generator).

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device is a refrigerator. Refrigerators are typically calibrated to keep items stored inside within a predetermined temperature range that is above zero degrees but below the potential ambient temperature. For example, a refrigerator may be designed to maintain an internal temperature between 1°C and 4°C. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device is a standard freezer. Freezers are typically calibrated to keep items stored inside within a temperature range that is below zero but above cryogenic temperatures. For example, a freezer may be designed to maintain an internal temperature between -23°C and -17°C, or may, for example, be designed to maintain an internal temperature between -18°C and -15°C. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment. For example, some refrigeration devices include a first internal storage area that continuously maintains a refrigerated temperature range and a second internal storage area that continuously maintains a frozen temperature range.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within a predetermined temperature range. As used herein, a "predetermined temperature range" refers to a temperature range that has been predetermined to be the desired temperature range for the internal storage area of a particular embodiment of the refrigeration device in use. The predetermined temperature range is a stable temperature range within which the internal storage area of the refrigeration device maintains a temperature during use of the refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within a predetermined temperature range of approximately 2°C to 8°C. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within a predetermined temperature range of approximately 1°C to 9°C. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within a predetermined temperature range of approximately -15°C to -25°C. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within a predetermined temperature range of approximately -5°C to -10°C.

For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within the predetermined temperature range for at least 50 hours when power to the refrigeration device is unavailable. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within the predetermined temperature range for at least 100 hours when power to the refrigeration device is unavailable. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within the predetermined temperature range for at least 150 hours when power to the refrigeration device is unavailable. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain the internal storage area of the refrigeration device within the predetermined temperature range for at least 200 hours when power to the refrigeration device is unavailable.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to passively maintain one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time when power to the refrigeration device is unavailable. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time when minimal power is available to the refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time when low voltage power is available to the refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device is configured to maintain one or more of its internal storage areas within a predetermined temperature range for an extended period of time when variable power is available to the refrigeration device. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a variable power control system. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a battery. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device operates passively in the absence of power and does not include a battery.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , an example of a refrigeration device that can be used as a context for introducing one or more processes and/or devices described herein is shown. FIG. 1 depicts a refrigeration device 100 that includes a single storage area within the refrigeration device. A single door 120 essentially opens the single storage area of the refrigeration device to a user outside the device. The user of the device can use a handle 125 to open door 120. Refrigeration device 100 is depicted with the front face of the outer wall of its housing 110 visible. In some embodiments, a single door is provided that provides the user with access to multiple storage areas within the refrigeration device, such as a first storage area maintained within a first temperature range and a second storage area maintained within a second temperature range. The refrigeration device 100 depicted in FIG. 1 includes a top door 140 that is reversibly attached to the upper surface of the refrigeration device 100 via a latch 150. Top door 140 can, for example, be configured to provide access to a liquid-impermeable container located within the refrigeration device 100, the liquid-impermeable container being positioned adjacent to the inner surface of top door 140. Some embodiments of the refrigeration device may be configured to operate from a power source such as a municipal power source or a solar power system.For example, the embodiment of the refrigeration device 100 shown in FIG1 includes a power cord 130 connected to a power source.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a housing surrounding a liquid-impermeable container that forms the exterior of the refrigeration device, at least one set of evaporator coils, a thermal conductor, and a storage area. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a housing surrounding the liquid-impermeable container, the set of evaporator coils, one or more walls that substantially form the storage area, a heat transfer system, and a door within the housing that is reversibly positioned to allow a user to access the storage area. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG1 , the housing 110 surrounds the exterior of the visible components of the refrigeration device. The housing can be made of a rigid material, such as a fiberglass material or a metal such as stainless steel or aluminum.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a thermal insulation member positioned within the housing. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a thermal insulation member positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the storage area. The thermal insulation member is sized and shaped to reversibly mate with the outer surface of the wall of the liquid-impermeable container and the outer wall that substantially forms the storage area. The thermal insulation member has sufficient thickness, mass, and composition to, in certain embodiments and for the intended use scenario of the embodiment, reduce heat leakage from the storage area to a level at which heat transfer through the heat transfer system is substantially balanced. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device and the thermal insulation member have a heat leakage of approximately 30W. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device and the thermal insulation member have a heat leakage of approximately 25W. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device and the thermal insulation member have a heat leakage of approximately 20W. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device and the thermal insulation member have a heat leakage of approximately 15W. For example, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device and the thermal insulation member have a heat leakage of approximately 10W. For example, in some embodiments, the thermal insulation member is made of foam insulation. For example, in some embodiments, the thermal insulation member is made of vacuum insulation panels ("VIPs").

FIG2 depicts a refrigeration unit 100 that includes dual storage areas within the refrigeration unit. The refrigeration unit 100 is depicted with the front face of its outer wall 110 visible. A first door 120 essentially opens the first storage area of the refrigeration unit to users outside the unit. Users of the unit can use a handle 125 to open the first door 120. In some embodiments, the first storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature of ten degrees or less above freezing (i.e., 0 degrees Celsius). In some embodiments, the first storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature within a range of, for example, approximately 0 degrees Celsius and approximately 10 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the first storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature within a range of, for example, approximately 1 degree Celsius and approximately 9 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the first storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature within a range of, for example, approximately 2 degrees Celsius and approximately 8 degrees Celsius. The embodiment shown in FIG2 also includes a second door 200 having a handle 210 to provide users with access to the second storage area within the refrigeration unit. In some embodiments, the second storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature of twenty degrees or more below freezing. In some embodiments, the second storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature within a range of, for example, between approximately -15 degrees Celsius and approximately -20 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the second storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature within a range of, for example, between approximately -10 degrees Celsius and approximately -5 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the second storage area can be configured to maintain an internal temperature of, for example, approximately 0 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the second storage area can be configured to store and freeze one or more phase change material refrigerant containers, such as medical ice packs. The refrigeration device 100 shown in FIG. 2 includes a top door 140 that is reversibly attached to the upper surface of the refrigeration device 100 via a latch 150. The top door 140 can, for example, be configured to allow a user to access a liquid-impermeable container within the refrigeration device 100, the liquid-impermeable container being located near the inner surface of the top door 140. Some embodiments of the refrigeration device can be configured to operate with power such as a municipal power source or a solar power system. For example, the embodiment of the refrigeration device 100 shown in FIG. 2 includes a power cord 130 connected to a power source.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the liquid-impermeable container being configured to retain a phase change material within the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; a heat transfer system, the heat transfer system including: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area; and a connector, the hollow interior space of the connector being attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator.

FIG3 depicts a refrigeration unit 100 including a liquid-impermeable container 300 and a storage area 310 configured to retain a phase change material within the unit 100. For illustrative purposes, features of the unit 100, such as its housing, door, and/or lid (see, for example, FIG1 and FIG2 ), are not depicted in FIG3 , although embodiments may include these and other features. In some embodiments, the liquid-impermeable container is also vapor-impermeable. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3 , the liquid-impermeable container 300 is positioned above the storage area 310 within the unit 100. In some embodiments, the liquid-impermeable container includes an orifice sized, shaped, and positioned to allow for a set of evaporator coils to be positioned across the orifice, and a liquid-impermeable seal between a surface of the orifice and a surface of the set of evaporator coils. In some embodiments, the liquid-impermeable container includes an orifice sized, shaped, and positioned to allow for a set of evaporator coils to be positioned across the orifice, and a vapor-impermeable seal between a surface of the orifice and a surface of the set of evaporator coils.

In some embodiments, one or more walls substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, and the liquid-impermeable container is configured to retain a phase change material within the refrigeration unit. The illustrated liquid-impermeable container 300 is made of multiple flat walls 320, forming a rectangular parallelepiped structure with solid walls and a bottom, with an orifice at the topmost surface forming an open top portion. The multiple flat walls 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300 are sealed at their edges at approximately right angles to the liquid-impermeable seal. In some embodiments, the one or more walls substantially forming the liquid-impermeable container include multiple layers, with the condenser positioned adjacent to a surface of at least one of the multiple layers. In some embodiments, the one or more walls substantially forming the liquid-impermeable container include multiple layers, at least one of the one or more layers including a non-flat area to form multiple sides of the liquid-impermeable container. In some embodiments, the one or more walls substantially forming the liquid-impermeable container include an orifice positioned, sized, and shaped to form an access opening. For example, the access opening may be sized, shaped, and positioned to allow a user to inspect, refill, and/or replace the interior of the liquid-impermeable container and its contents. In some embodiments, one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container include an aperture positioned, sized, and shaped to reversibly mate with the door. Some embodiments include an access cover positioned within the top surface of the liquid-impermeable container, the access cover configured to provide user access to the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container.

Some embodiments include a phase change material positioned within a liquid-impermeable container. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG3 , a phase change material may be included within the liquid-impermeable container 300 in location 305 surrounding the set of refrigeration coils 330. As used herein, a "phase change material" is a material with a high latent heat that is capable of storing and releasing thermal energy while changing physical phases. The selection of a phase change material for an embodiment depends on considerations including the latent heat of the material, the melting point of the material, the boiling point of the material, the volume of the material required to store a predetermined amount of thermal energy in the embodiment, the toxicity of the material, the cost of the material, and the flammability of the material. Depending on the embodiment, the phase change material can be a solid, liquid, semi-solid, or gas during use. For example, in some embodiments, the phase change material includes water, methanol, ethanol, sodium polyacrylate/polysaccharide material, or salt hydrate. In some embodiments, for example, due to the physical property that pure water/ice has a melting point of 0°C, a phase change material that includes most of its volume as pure water/ice is preferred. In some embodiments, for example, a phase change material comprising a majority of its volume as brine/salt ice is preferred because, based on the molar concentration and amount of salt in the brine/salt ice, the melting point of salt ice can be calibrated to be below 0° C. In some embodiments, for example, the phase change material is configured to freeze at temperatures below -20° C. In some embodiments, for example, the phase change material is configured to freeze at a point between 1° C. and 3° C. In some embodiments, the phase change material is in liquid form at ambient temperature (e.g., 25° C.).

The refrigeration device 100 includes an active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils 330. The set of evaporator coils 330 is located within the interior space of a liquid-impermeable container 300. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes two active refrigeration units, each including its own set of evaporator coils. For example, both sets of evaporator coils may be located within a single liquid-impermeable container within the refrigeration device. For example, each set of evaporator coils may be located within two liquid-impermeable containers within a single refrigeration device, and each set of evaporator coils may be independently controlled by a single controller attached to each active refrigeration unit. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a single active refrigeration unit comprising two sets of evaporator coils. For example, each set of evaporator coils may be located within two liquid-impermeable containers within a single refrigeration device, and each set of evaporator coils may be independently controlled, such as using a reversibly controllable thermal control device, such as a valve system. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes an active refrigeration unit comprising an active refrigeration system. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes an active refrigeration unit comprising an electric compression system.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes an active refrigeration unit comprising a compressor. The embodiment shown in FIG3 includes a compressor 335 operably attached to the set of evaporator coils 330. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a controller. The embodiment shown in FIG3 includes a controller 380 positioned between the compressor 335 and a wiring connection 395 to a power source. Depending on the embodiment, the controller may include an electronic controller having circuitry configured to send control signals to the compressor and/or other features of the device. Depending on the embodiment, the controller may include an electronic controller having circuitry configured to receive signals from the compressor and/or other features of the device, such as sensors or monitors. In some embodiments, the controller includes a wireless signal generator, such as a cellular radio transmitter. In some embodiments, the controller includes circuitry for data acquisition, such as data from one or more sensors and/or power monitors. In some embodiments, the controller includes circuitry for temperature control, such as by sending control signals to an operably attached compressor. In some embodiments, the controller includes circuitry for temperature display, such as by sending control signals to an operably attached display unit. In some embodiments, the controller includes: circuitry for receiving data from one or more sensors; circuitry for evaluating the received data relative to one or more predetermined setpoints; circuitry for sending a control signal in response to a detected value meeting the one or more predetermined setpoints; and circuitry for transmitting the received data externally to the refrigeration unit. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may be configured to: receive data from a plurality of temperature sensors; evaluate the received data relative to predetermined maximum and/or minimum values; send a control signal in response to the detected maximum and/or minimum values; and send a signal including the received data to a monitoring system.

In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the refrigeration device will be used in locations with intermittent power availability, such as due to periodic failures of the municipal power grid or unavailability of solar power. The refrigeration device can include, for example, a battery attached to at least one active refrigeration unit. The refrigeration device can be configured to conditionally operate the active refrigeration unit using battery power, such as in the event of a lack of power for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 2 days, 3 days, or 4 days). For example, if a temperature sensor located within the refrigeration device detects a temperature above a predetermined threshold level, the refrigeration device can be configured to conditionally operate the active refrigeration unit using battery power.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration unit is intended for use in locations with variable power availability, such as power sources with time-varying voltages. The refrigeration unit may include, for example, a variable power control system attached to at least one active refrigeration unit. In some embodiments, the variable power control system may be designed to accept power from various sources, such as 120, 230 VAC, and 12 to 24 VDC. In some embodiments, the variable power control system may include a power converter. For example, the power converter may be configured to convert AC input power to DC. For example, the power converter may be configured to convert variable AC input power to 220 VAC. In some embodiments, the variable power control system includes an automatic voltage regulator. For example, a refrigeration unit configured for use in locations with poor power grid functionality may be configured to accept power in the range of 90 to 250 VAC and use an integrated automatic voltage regulator to convert the input to a stable 220 VAC. The refrigeration unit may include one or more voltage and/or current sensors positioned and configured to detect the power supply to the refrigeration unit. The sensors may be attached to the controller, and/or the transmitter unit, and/or the memory unit. The refrigeration unit may include a voltage regulator. The refrigeration unit may include a power conditioning unit. Some embodiments of the refrigeration device are designed to operate with or without regular power from an electrical grid (such as a municipal grid). For example, the refrigeration device can be configured to operate with power from the grid when the grid is available, and to operate with power from a backup power source, such as a photovoltaic cell, at other times. For example, the refrigeration device can be configured to operate with power from the grid in response to input from a user, and to operate with power from a backup power source, such as a photovoltaic cell, in response to other inputs, such as the availability of solar energy. For example, some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell configured to provide power to a battery. For example, some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell configured to provide power directly to the refrigeration device. Some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell having a peak power of 50 watts (W). Some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell having a peak power of 100 watts (W). Some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell having a peak power of 150 watts (W). Some embodiments include a photovoltaic cell having a peak power of 200 watts (W). Some embodiments are configured to utilize energy from different sources depending on availability and user preferences. For example, some embodiments include circuitry for receiving power from a photovoltaic cell and a controller for directing the received power directly to an active cooling system or to a battery. This selection can be guided by a user through an interface or controlled based on predetermined criteria, such as time of day, external temperature, or temperature information from one or more temperature sensors within the refrigeration unit. Some embodiments include a controller configured to respond to detected conditions of the refrigeration unit. Some embodiments include circuitry configured to receive power from a 12 volt (V) battery rated between 1.5 kW and 2.0 kW via a power inverter to activate and power the refrigeration unit's existing active cooling system. Some embodiments are configured to, in response to information from a temperature sensor within the storage area, direct power from the sealed battery to the thermoelectric cell under the control of the controller. For embodiments in which the internal storage area of the temperature-controlled container ranges from 15 liters (L) to 50 L, a 50 W peak photovoltaic cell should be able to continuously maintain a predetermined temperature range of approximately 2°C to 8°C, with the photovoltaic cell providing maximum output for one hour per 24-hour period. The system may also include a charge monitor configured to ensure that the battery is not depleted below a preset threshold, such as 80% of its charge, to extend battery life during use.

Some embodiments include a power monitor operably connected to the refrigeration unit. Some embodiments include the power monitor positioned between the power supply and other components of the refrigeration unit. Some embodiments include the power monitor positioned after the voltage cutoff switch. Some embodiments include the power monitor positioned between the power stabilizer and the compressor. For example, the embodiment shown in FIG3 includes a power monitor 390 operably connected to a wire connection 395 to the power supply. Some embodiments include a power monitor operably attached to a controller. For example, FIG3 depicts an embodiment including a power monitor 390 operably connected to a controller 380 using a wire connector. The power monitor may include a power sampling unit, such as a 1kHz power sampling unit. The power monitor may include a power sampling unit, such as a 2kHz power sampling unit. The power monitor may include a power sampling unit, such as a 3kHz power sampling unit. The power monitor may include a power sampling unit, such as a 4kHz power sampling unit. The power monitor may include a power sampling unit, such as a 5kHz power sampling unit. The power monitor may include a surge protector that can be configured to operate according to surge conditions expected in the expected geographic usage area of the refrigeration unit. The power monitor may include a high voltage disconnect switch, such as a high voltage disconnect switch configured to actuate at a predetermined maximum voltage for the refrigeration unit. The power monitor may include a low voltage disconnect switch, such as a low voltage disconnect switch configured to actuate at a predetermined minimum voltage for the refrigeration unit. The power monitor may include a voltage regulator. The power monitor may include a battery. For example, the power monitor may include a battery configured to provide sufficient power to monitor a power outage and restore power.

In some embodiments, a refrigeration device includes: a first portion of a set of evaporator coils, the first portion positioned adjacent to an outer surface of one or more walls forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container; a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion positioned within an interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and a frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material, the frame being in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils. In some embodiments, a refrigeration device includes: a first set of evaporator coils, the first set of evaporator coils positioned adjacent to an outer surface of one or more walls forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container; a second set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and a frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material, the frame being in thermal contact with the first set of evaporator coils.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the refrigeration unit 100 includes one or more walls 340 that basically form a storage area 310. These walls can, for example, be substantially flat and attached approximately at right angles to each other. The storage area can form a rectangular parallelepiped structure, as shown in Figure 3. The storage area can include an orifice that is positioned and sized to reversibly cooperate with the door (see, for example, Figures 1 and 2). The storage area can include internal shelves, racks, and similar feature structures. In certain embodiments, the storage area is configured to be used for medical storage, such as for the storage of vaccine vials and/or pharmaceutical packaging.

In some embodiments, a refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; and a connector, the hollow interior spaces of the connector being attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the condenser and the evaporator. The liquid and vapor flow paths formed by the connectors allow liquid to flow downward and vapor to flow upward within a single connector. In some embodiments, there is a single connector that forms a bidirectional liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the evaporator and the condenser. In some embodiments, there are two or more connectors, each of which independently forms a bidirectional liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the evaporator and the condenser. In the embodiment shown in FIG3 , a refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising a first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form a condenser 350, which is in thermal contact with one or more walls 320 forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container 300. FIG3 also illustrates a refrigeration device including a heat transfer system comprising a second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form an evaporator 360, which is in thermal contact with one or more walls 340 forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container 310. The embodiment shown in FIG3 includes a connector 370 having a hollow interior space attached to both condenser 350 and evaporator 360, with connector 370 forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of condenser 350 and the hollow interior space of evaporator 360. In some embodiments, the heat transfer system comprises a continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space, and an evaporating liquid sealed within the continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space. As shown in FIG3 , in some embodiments, the connector is a substantially linear structure that is positioned substantially vertically when the refrigeration device is in a use position.

In some embodiments, the evaporator and/or condenser of the heat transfer system are connected to multiple walls of a liquid-impermeable container and a storage area. See, for example, Figure 7. In some embodiments, a first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form the condenser are adjacent to and in thermal contact with two or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container. For example, the condenser can be made of a plurality of hollow tubes fused together and positioned to be in thermal contact with two or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container. For example, the condenser can be made of a single roll-bonded structure that is bent and positioned to form multiple walls of the liquid-impermeable container. In some embodiments, a second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form the evaporator are adjacent to and in thermal contact with two or more walls of the storage area. For example, the evaporator can be made of a plurality of hollow tubes fused together and positioned to be in thermal contact with two or more walls of the storage area. For example, the evaporator can be made of a single roll-bonded structure that is bent and positioned to form multiple walls of the storage area.

In some embodiments, the heat transfer system forms a one-way heat conductor within the refrigeration device. As used herein, a "one-way heat conductor" refers to a structure configured to allow heat transfer in one direction along its long axis while substantially suppressing heat transfer in the opposite direction along the same long axis. The design and implementation of a one-way heat conductor is to promote the transmission of thermal energy (e.g., heat) in one direction along the length of the one-way heat conductor while substantially suppressing transmission in the opposite direction along the length of the one-way heat conductor. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way heat conductor comprises a linear heat pipe device. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way heat conductor comprises a thermosyphon. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way heat conductor comprises a thermal diode device. For example, the one-way heat conductor may comprise a hollow tube made of a thermally conductive material, the hollow tube being sealed at each end and comprising an evaporative liquid in the form of a volatile liquid and a gas. For example, the one-way heat conductor may comprise a tubular structure having a substantially sealed internal region and an evaporative fluid sealed within the substantially sealed internal region. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way heat conductor is configured as a copper tube having a diameter of 1/2 inch. In some embodiments, the one-way heat conductor may be made in whole or in part using a roll-bonding technique. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor may include an internal geometric structure positioned and configured to distribute the evaporative liquid along the inner surface of the one-way thermal conductor. For example, the one-way thermal conductor may include grooves, channels, or similar structures sized, shaped, and positioned to distribute the evaporative liquid along the inner surface. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor may include an internal capillary structure throughout the interior or in specific areas of the interior. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor may include an internal sintered structure throughout the interior or in specific areas of the interior.

In some embodiments, the one-way heat conductor may include a plurality of hollow branch structures, each of which is vapor-connected to one another and each of which contains an evaporative liquid in both volatile liquid form and gaseous form. Some embodiments include multiple one-way heat conductors. For example, some embodiments include multiple one-way heat conductors arranged in parallel along a single axis. For example, some embodiments include multiple one-way heat conductors for use in different areas of a refrigeration device, the multiple one-way heat conductors functioning independently of one another. Some embodiments include multiple one-way heat conductors containing the same evaporative liquid. Some embodiments include multiple one-way heat conductors containing different evaporative liquids, for example, located in different areas of a refrigeration device.

The one-way thermal conductor is configured such that the liquid and gaseous forms of the evaporating liquid are in thermal equilibrium. The one-way thermal conductor is substantially evacuated during manufacture and then sealed with an airtight seal so that substantially all of the gas present within the one-way thermal conductor is in the gaseous form of the liquid present. The vapor pressure within the one-way thermal conductor is substantially entirely that of the liquid, such that the total vapor pressure is substantially equal to the partial pressure of the liquid. The one-way thermal conductor includes an internal flow path for the evaporating liquid and its vapor. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor includes an internal flow path sufficient to enable two-phase flow of the evaporating liquid within the one-way thermal conductor. For example, the connector may include a bidirectional internal flow path. For example, the connector may include both liquid and vapor flow paths. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor may be configured to operate in a substantially vertical position, with heat transfer from the lower end to the upper end occurring via vapor rising within the one-way thermal conductor and condensing at the upper end. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor includes the evaporating liquid, wherein when the one-way thermal conductor is in its desired position within the container, the desired surface height of the evaporating liquid is within the storage area of the temperature-controlled container.

In some embodiments, for example, the one-way thermal conductor comprises an evaporating liquid comprising one or more alcohols. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way thermal conductor comprises an evaporating liquid comprising one or more liquids commonly used as refrigerants. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way thermal conductor comprises water. In some embodiments, for example, the one-way thermal conductor comprises an evaporating liquid comprising R-134A refrigerant, isobutane, methanol, ammonia, acetone, water, isobutylene, pentane, or R-404 refrigerant.

Some embodiments include a one-way thermal conductor comprising an elongated structure. For example, the one-way thermal conductor may include a substantially tubular structure. The one-way thermal conductor may be configured into a substantially linear structure. The one-way thermal conductor may be configured into a substantially non-linear structure. For example, the one-way thermal conductor may be configured into a non-linear tubular structure. In some embodiments, one or more heat conduction units are attached to the outer surface of the one-way thermal conductor. For example, one or more flat structures (such as fin-like structures) made of a thermally conductive material may be attached to the outer surface of the one-way thermal conductor and positioned to promote heat transfer between the one-way thermal conductor and an adjacent area. The one-way thermal conductor may be made of a thermally conductive metal. For example, the one-way thermal conductor may include copper, aluminum, silver or gold.

In some embodiments, the one-way heat conductor may include a substantially elongated structure. For example, the one-way heat conductor may include a substantially tubular structure. The substantially elongated structure includes an evaporative liquid sealed within the structure with an airtight seal. For example, the one-way heat conductor may include an airtight seal that is welded or crimped. In some embodiments, the evaporative liquid includes one or more of the following: water, ethanol, methanol, or butane. The selection of the evaporative liquid in the embodiment depends on the following factors, including the evaporation temperature of the evaporative liquid in the specific one-way heat conductor structure in the embodiment, including the gas pressure within the one-way heat conductor. The internal space of the one-way heat conductor structure includes a gas pressure that is lower than the vapor pressure of the evaporative liquid included in the embodiment. When the one-way heat conductor is positioned in a temperature-controlled container in a substantially vertical position, the evaporative liquid evaporates from the bottom of the one-way heat conductor, wherein the resulting vapor rises to the top of the one-way heat conductor and condenses, thereby transferring heat energy from the bottom of the one-way heat conductor to the top. In some embodiments, the one-way thermal conductor comprises a structure including an insulating region positioned between a condensing end and an evaporating end, the insulating region being positioned between a liquid-impermeable container and a storage region of the refrigeration unit.

Some embodiments include a unidirectional thermal conductor attached to a thermally conductive coupling block and a heat pipe. The coupling block and heat pipe can, for example, be positioned and configured to moderate heat transfer along the length of the unidirectional thermal conductor.

In some embodiments, the first group of vapor-proof structures that are connected to form a condenser with a hollow inner space form a branching structure. For example, Fig. 3 shows a branch zigzag pattern of a structure that is connected to form a condenser 350. For example, a zigzag pattern can be positioned and configured to evenly distribute internal fluid to form an active heat transfer area. In some embodiments, the first group of vapor-proof structures that are connected to form a condenser with a hollow inner space form a branching structure, wherein each end of the branch of the branching structure is the topmost area of the branch. In some embodiments, the first group of vapor-proof structures that are connected to form a condenser with a hollow inner space form a branching structure, wherein these branches are connected at the top of the branching structure. In some embodiments, at least one wall that is basically formed as a liquid-impermeable container is made of one or more roll-bonded plates. For example, one or more roll-bonded plates can be made into a first group of vapor-impermeable structures that include a hollow inner space, and this first group of vapor-impermeable structures are connected to form the condenser of a refrigeration unit, and one or more roll-bonded plates can be integrated into one or more walls that are basically formed as a liquid-impermeable container. In some embodiments, the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected by the hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container. For example, the first set of vapor-impermeable structures can be part of a roll-bonded structure that forms one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container. In some embodiments, the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected by the hollow interior space to form the condenser are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

In some embodiments, a second group of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form an evaporator with a hollow interior space forms a branching structure. For example, Figure 3 shows a branched zigzag pattern of structures connected to form evaporator 360. For example, the zigzag pattern can be positioned and configured to evenly distribute the internal fluid to form an active heat transfer area. In some embodiments, a second group of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form an evaporator with a hollow interior space forms a branching structure, wherein each end of a branch of the branching structure is the bottommost area of the branch. In some embodiments, a second group of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form an evaporator with a hollow interior space forms a branching structure, wherein these branches are connected at the bottom of the branching structure. In some embodiments, at least one wall that substantially forms a storage area is made of one or more roll-bonded plates. For example, one or more roll-bonded plates can be made to include a second group of vapor-impermeable structures with a hollow interior space, which second group of vapor-impermeable structures are connected to form an evaporator of a refrigeration unit, and one or more roll-bonded plates can be integrated into one or more walls that substantially form a storage area. The roll-bonded plate can be made into a unit and then bent or folded to form the wall of a storage area and/or a liquid-impermeable container. In some embodiments, the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected by the hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the storage area. In some embodiments, the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected by the hollow interior space to form the evaporator are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the storage area. For example, the second set of vapor-impermeable structures can be part of a roll-bonded structure forming one or more walls of the storage area.

FIG4 depicts an embodiment of a refrigeration device 100, which includes a sensor 410 located within a liquid-impermeable container 300, between the inner surface of the container wall 320 and a set of evaporator coils 330. The sensor may be, for example, a temperature sensor, such as an electronic temperature sensor. Some embodiments include: at least one sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container, between one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and a controller operably attached to at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor. The sensor may be operably connected to the controller using a wireless connection. The sensor may be operably connected to the controller using a wired connector. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit a signal including sensor data to the controller at regular intervals (such as every hour, every two hours, or every three hours). In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit a signal including sensor data to the controller at regular intervals (such as every minute, every two minutes, or every three minutes). In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit a signal including sensor data to the controller at regular intervals (such as every second, every two seconds, or every three seconds). In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to send a signal including sensed data to a controller when the sensed parameter is outside a certain preset value range. For example, in some embodiments, a temperature sensor is configured to send a signal to an attached controller in response to the temperature sensor detecting a temperature outside a predetermined value range, such as above 3 degrees Celsius or below 0 degrees Celsius.

In some embodiments, the controller includes circuitry for turning the active refrigeration unit on and off in response to data received from the sensor. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG4 , the refrigeration unit is calibrated to operate efficiently when a set of evaporator coils 330 are located within a liquid-impermeable container 300 and the phase change material is located at a location 305 surrounding the set of evaporator coils 330. When the active refrigeration unit is operating, the compressor 335 acts to cool the set of refrigeration coils 330, thereby cooling the phase change material located at the location 305 surrounding the set of evaporator coils 330. The refrigeration unit 100 can, for example, be calibrated to operate efficiently when the phase change material is cold enough to freeze to a location within the liquid-impermeable container 300 (e.g., a freeze line 400). The temperature sensor 410 is positioned between the expected freeze line 400 and the wall 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300 that is in direct contact with the condenser 350.

Some embodiments include a heat transfer system that is calibrated to maintain the internal temperature of a storage area within a predetermined temperature range when a phase change material located within a liquid-impermeable container is maintained within the predetermined temperature range. For example, a refrigeration unit can include sufficient insulation such that, within an expected ambient temperature range, the heat transfer system will remove heat from the storage area at a rate equal to the heat leakage from the storage area and thereby passively maintain the internal temperature of the storage area within the preset temperature range. Factors included in the calibration of the heat transfer system include the physical properties (e.g., thermal conductivity) of the material from which the heat transfer system is made, the evaporating liquid within the heat transfer system, the location and configuration of the heat transfer system relative to the storage area and the liquid-impermeable container, and the phase change material used within the liquid-impermeable container.

Some embodiments include: at least one sensor located within a liquid-impermeable container between one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active cooling unit and the sensor. Some embodiments include: at least one sensor located adjacent to an interior wall of the storage area; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active cooling unit and the sensor. Some embodiments include: at least one sensor located adjacent to an evaporator of the heat transfer system; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active cooling unit and the sensor. Some embodiments further include circuitry for turning the at least one active cooling unit on and off in response to data received from the sensor. For example, a temperature sensor may be located within the liquid-impermeable container and operably connected to a controller configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor and, in response to the received signal from the temperature sensor, send a control signal (such as an on/off control signal) to the at least one active cooling unit. In an embodiment, the liquid-impermeable container may be configured to include water as the phase change material, and the temperature sensor may be positioned and calibrated to detect whether the water is frozen or nearly frozen (e.g., within a temperature range between 2 degrees Celsius and -1 degrees Celsius). A controller attached to the temperature sensor may include circuitry configured to send an "off" control signal to the active cooling unit when the received data indicates a freezing temperature, e.g., 0 degrees Celsius or lower. The controller may further include circuitry configured to send an "on" control signal to the active cooling unit when the received data indicates a sufficiently warm temperature, e.g., 2 degrees Celsius or higher.

Some embodiments include a heat transfer system that allows for variable heat flow from a storage area to a liquid-impermeable container. Some embodiments include a heat transfer system having at least one thermal control device coupled to a connector, the thermal control device positioned and configured to reversibly control the size of the connector's hollow interior space. By reversibly controlling the size of the connector's hollow interior space, the amount of liquid and vapor flow of the evaporating liquid within the heat transfer system can be varied, thereby varying the heat flow rate.

As used herein, a "thermal control device" is a device positioned and configured to regulate the flow of an evaporating liquid in a liquid or vapor state through a heat transfer system between an evaporating end and a condensing end. The thermal control device changes configuration in response to a stimulus, thereby varying the heat transfer throughout the attached heat transfer system. In some embodiments, the thermal control device operates in a binary state, opening or closing a flow path within the heat transfer system. In some embodiments, the thermal control device operates in an analog manner, wherein multiple possible states open and close the flow path within the heat transfer system to varying degrees. For example, the thermal control device may include a valve having multiple partially restricted configurations. For example, the thermal control device may include a valve that can be stably set to multiple positions, including a flow restriction of 20% through the valve, a flow restriction of 30% through the valve, a flow restriction of 40% through the valve, a flow restriction of 50% through the valve, a flow restriction of 60% through the valve, a flow restriction of 70% through the valve, and a flow restriction of 80% through the valve. For example, the thermal control device may include a valve that is a solenoid valve. The thermal control device can increase or decrease the thermal energy transferred by the heat transfer system by controlling the flow of evaporated liquid. For example, the thermal control device can be configured to regulate the flow of evaporated liquid in a liquid or vapor state through the heat transfer system in response to temperature. In some embodiments, the thermal control device is a passive device. For example, a passive thermal control device may include a bimetallic element that is configured to change position in response to temperature changes within the heat transfer system. In some embodiments, the thermal control device is an active device, such as one that requires electricity to operate and is actively controlled by a controller. For example, the thermal control device may include an electrically operable valve inside the heat transfer system (such as within a connector), a valve attached to a controller, and a power source outside the heat transfer system. For example, in some embodiments, the thermal control device includes a valve (such as a ball valve), a motor operably connected to the valve, and a battery operably connected to the motor. In some embodiments, the thermal control device is completely located inside the regulated heat transfer system. In some embodiments, the thermal control device is partially located inside the regulated heat transfer system and partially located outside it, for example including one or more power couplers or control feature structures.

For example, FIG5 depicts an embodiment of a thermal control device 500 including a connector 370 attached to a heat transfer system. In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal control device 500 includes a valve positioned and attached in a manner that reversibly controls the flow of steam and fluid within the connector 370, thereby regulating the thermodynamic properties of the heat transfer system. In some embodiments, the valve is operably connected to a controller, and the controller includes circuitry configured to send control signals to the valve. For example, the valve can be operably connected to the controller using a wireless connection. For example, the valve can be operably connected to the controller using a wired connector. For example, the controller can include circuitry configured to send control signals to the valve in response to data received by the controller from a sensor located within a liquid-impermeable container. For example, the controller can include circuitry configured to send control signals to the valve in coordination with control signals sent by the controller to a compressor. In some embodiments, the thermal control device is a passive device and is not operably connected to the controller. For example, the thermal control device can include a mechanism calibrated to open and close a valve attached to the connector in response to the temperature of the connector.

Some embodiments include a heating element positioned adjacent to a condenser of a heat transfer system, wherein the heating element is configured to reversibly and controllably provide heat to the condenser to prevent the condenser from cooling below a predetermined minimum temperature. For example, the heating element may, in some embodiments, include an electric heating element that is operably connected to a controller and configured to respond to a control signal sent from the controller. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from a temperature sensor and send a control signal to the heating element in response to the data from the temperature sensor. For example, one embodiment may include a temperature sensor positioned adjacent to an evaporator, wherein the temperature sensor sends data to the controller, and the controller sends a control signal to the heating element in response to the data received from the temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to receive data from an active cooling unit and send a control signal to the heating element positioned adjacent to the condenser of the heat transfer system in response to the data received from the active cooling unit. For example, the controller may be configured to turn on the heating element after the active cooling unit has been operating for a period of time, such as 6 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a second storage area positioned and configured to maintain its interior space within a second temperature range. For example, the second temperature range can be below freezing (e.g., below 0 degrees Celsius). In some embodiments, the second temperature range can be between -5 degrees Celsius and -15 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the second temperature range can be between -15 degrees Celsius and -25 degrees Celsius. The refrigeration device can, for example, be configured with a second door positioned so that the second storage area is accessible to a user (e.g., see FIG2 ). Some embodiments of the refrigeration device further include: a frame attached to the outer surface of one or more walls forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame having a size and shape to enclose one or more containers for freezing phase change material; and at least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner being oriented to press the one or more containers against the one or more walls. In some embodiments, the frame includes at least one positioning element oriented to facilitate positioning the one or more containers for freezing phase change material adjacent to the outer surface of the one or more walls. Some embodiments include where one set of evaporator coils includes an exterior portion positioned adjacent to a frame on an exterior of the liquid-impermeable container and an interior portion located within an interior space of the liquid-impermeable container. Some embodiments include two or more sets of evaporator coils independently attached to the compressor, where a first set of evaporator coils is located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container and a second set of evaporator coils is positioned adjacent to an exterior of the liquid-impermeable container.

For example, FIG6 depicts an embodiment in which a frame 600 is attached to the outer surface of the wall 320 of a liquid-impermeable container 300. The liquid-impermeable container includes an interior location 305, which, when the embodiment is in use, will contain phase change material surrounding a set of evaporator coils; for illustrative purposes, the set of evaporator coils is not shown in FIG6 . The frame is positioned and oriented to hold a container 610 for the frozen phase change material adjacent to a portion 640 of the outer surface of the wall 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300. For example, in some embodiments, the container for holding the frozen phase change material may include a WHO-standard ice pack for use in a hospital setting. The embodiment of the frame 600 shown in FIG6 includes a substantially flat outer portion 650 oriented to position the container 610 for the frozen phase change material adjacent to the portion 640 of the outer surface of the wall 320. A positioning element 620, comprising two substantially flat opposing surfaces, is positioned between the inner surface of the substantially flat outer portion 650 of the frame and the substantially flat outer wall of the container 610 for the frozen phase change material. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the frame 600 includes two unique positioning elements 620. Each positioning element includes a tab 625 at one end, the size and shape of the tab 625 facilitates a user to reversibly slide the positioning element relative to the frame 600, thereby facilitating the removal of adjacent containers 610. The substantially flat outer portion 650 of the frame 600 may include a guide 630, the size and shape of which positions one or more tabs of each positioning element 620, thereby maintaining the relative orientation of the positioning element 620 relative to the frame 600. Some embodiments include one or more tensioning elements within the frame that are oriented and configured to maintain one or more containers for frozen phase change material in direct contact with the outer surface of the wall of the liquid-impermeable container. For example, the frame may include an internal torsion spring. For example, the frame may include a semi-elliptical spring positioned and oriented to retain the container.

Some embodiments include a frame attached to the outer surface of one or more walls of a substantially liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame having a size and shape to enclose one or more containers for freezing a phase change material, wherein the frame is located within a second liquid-impermeable container. The frame can be positioned and configured to maintain the one or more containers for freezing a phase change material in thermal contact with a second liquid-impermeable container. The second liquid-impermeable container can be configured to contain a material having thermal properties sufficient to freeze and maintain the frozen state of the one or more containers for freezing a phase change material in thermal contact with the second liquid-impermeable container. The second liquid-impermeable container can be configured to contain a phase change material. In some embodiments, the second liquid-impermeable container can be configured to contain a second phase change material having a lower freezing temperature than the first phase change material. In some embodiments, the second liquid-impermeable container can be configured to contain a second phase change material having a higher melting point than the first phase change material. For example, in embodiments where the first liquid-impermeable container includes water as the phase change material, the second liquid-impermeable container can include salt water having a lower freezing temperature than (non-salt) water. For example, in an embodiment where the first liquid-impermeable container includes water as the phase change material, the second liquid-impermeable container includes a phase change material having a freezing temperature of -10 degrees C. For example, in an embodiment where the first liquid-impermeable container includes water as the phase change material, the second liquid-impermeable container includes a phase change material having a freezing temperature of -20 degrees Celsius.

Some embodiments of a refrigeration device include: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the container being configured to retain a phase change material within an interior space of the refrigeration device, wherein the one or more walls integrally include a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser; at least one active refrigeration unit, the active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area and integrally include a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator, wherein the condenser, evaporator, and connector form a heat transfer system integral to the refrigeration device.

Some embodiments include those in which the size and shape of the connector allows both liquid and vapor to flow between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser of the heat transfer system. For example, FIG5 depicts a connector 370 positioned between the evaporator 360 and the condenser 350 of the heat transfer system integrated with the refrigeration unit 100. In the embodiment shown in FIG5, the heat transfer system operates with fluid and vapor flowing along a linear, substantially vertical (i.e., up and down in the view of FIG5) path, performing bidirectional movement within each hollow interior space of the heat transfer system.

FIG7 depicts an embodiment of a refrigeration unit 100. In the illustrated embodiment, a liquid-impermeable container 300 is made of walls 320. Two of the walls 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300 are in thermal contact with a condenser 350 of a heat transfer system. For example, these walls can be made of a roll-bonded layered material comprising a condenser, the material being bent and positioned to form the walls of the liquid-impermeable container. A set of evaporator coils 330 is located within the liquid-impermeable container 300, and a sensor 410 is positioned between the edge of the set of evaporator coils 330 and the interior of the walls 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300, the wall being in thermal contact with a portion of the condenser 350. The set of evaporator coils 330 is operably attached to a compressor 335, which can further be attached to a controller 380 and a power monitor 390. The refrigeration unit 100 includes a power connector 395 for connecting to a power source (such as an electrical grid system). The embodiment of the condenser 350 shown in Figure 7 is constructed to include multiple internal loops that provide liquid and vapor flow paths within the condenser 350. The refrigeration device 100 shown in Figure 7 includes two connectors 370 within the heat transfer system. Each connector 370 provides a bidirectional liquid and vapor flow path for the evaporating liquid within the hollow interior space of the heat transfer system.

The refrigeration unit 100 shown in FIG7 also includes a storage area 310 that is substantially defined by walls 340. Two of the walls 340 of the storage area 310 are in thermal contact with the evaporator 360 of the heat transfer system. For example, these walls can be made of a roll-bonded layered material comprising the evaporator, which is bent and positioned to form the walls of the storage area. In the embodiment shown in FIG7 , the evaporator 360 includes two different paths, one integrated on each side of the evaporator 360. Both different paths are configured to provide bidirectional liquid and vapor flow paths within the hollow interior space. The two paths within the interior space of the evaporator 360 are connected at their lowest point 700.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising an evaporator, a condenser, and one or more connectors, wherein each connector forms a dual vapor and liquid flow path between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising an evaporator, a condenser, and a connector. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising an evaporator, a condenser, and two connectors. For example, the two connectors can be positioned adjacent to two different faces of the refrigeration device. For example, the two connectors can be positioned adjacent to a single face of the refrigeration device. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes a heat transfer system comprising an evaporator, a condenser, and three connectors. For example, the three connectors can be positioned adjacent to three different faces of the refrigeration device, such as two side faces and a back face. For example, the three connectors can be positioned adjacent to a single face of the refrigeration device.

Some embodiments include a first group of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form a condenser with a hollow interior space. The vapor-impermeable structures are also liquid-impermeable. According to an embodiment, the vapor-impermeable structures can be made of a tube, a tubular structure, an area of a roll-bonded material, or other materials. Some embodiments include a condenser formed by a first group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector at a lower position. Some embodiments include a condenser formed by a first group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector at a lower position and is connected to at least one other part at an upper position. Some embodiments include a condenser formed by a first group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector and at least one intermediate position height at a lower position. For example, in some embodiments, the first group of vapor-impermeable structures forms a zigzag pattern, and the structure is connected to each other at the intersection of the pattern.

Some embodiments include a second group of vapor-impermeable structures connected to form a evaporator with a hollow interior space. The vapor-impermeable structures are also liquid-impermeable. According to an embodiment, the vapor-impermeable structures can be made of a tube, a tubular structure, an area of a roll-bonded material, or other materials. Some embodiments include an evaporator formed by a second group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector at an upper position. Some embodiments include an evaporator formed by a second group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector at an upper position and to at least one other part at a lower position. Some embodiments include an evaporator formed by a second group of vapor-impermeable structures, wherein the vapor-impermeable structure has a plurality of parts, and each part is connected to a connector and at least one intermediate position height at an upper position. For example, in some embodiments, the second group of vapor-impermeable structures forms a zigzag pattern, and the structures are connected to each other at the intersection of the pattern.

In some embodiments, the heat transfer system is made of a continuous roll-bonded material, wherein the roll-bonded material includes an evaporator, a condenser, and one or more connectors. For example, the roll-bonded material can be made with desired internal channels to form an evaporator, a condenser, and one or more channels between the evaporator and the condenser, wherein the roll-bonded material, which is initially substantially flat during manufacture, is bent to form the walls of a storage area and/or a liquid-impermeable container. For example, a roll-bonded material that is made to include an evaporator, a condenser, and one or more connectors and is substantially flat during manufacture can be reconfigured to form the sides of a storage area and/or a liquid-impermeable container after manufacture, and the reconfigured form can be integrated into the refrigeration device during assembly of the refrigeration device. In some embodiments, the refrigeration device includes: one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container, the container being configured to retain a phase change material within the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; a sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor.

In some embodiments, the refrigeration device further comprises: a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including a region protruding beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container; a housing attached to the region of the thermally conductive wall that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container, the housing including a thermally insulating layer adjacent to the region of the thermally conductive wall; and a frame attached within the housing, the frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for freezing a phase change material. During use, as heat passes through the sides of the refrigeration device, the heat is dissipated along the thermally conductive wall, including into the liquid-impermeable container. This heat dissipation helps maintain the internal storage area of the housing within a predetermined temperature range for freezing the one or more containers of phase change material. For example, the thermally conductive wall can comprise a thermally conductive metal such as copper or aluminum. For example, the thermally insulating layer can comprise standard insulation materials used in refrigeration devices, such as foam insulation or one or more vacuum insulation panels. A frame sized and shaped to enclose the one or more containers for freezing a phase change material, wherein the frame is attached within the housing, and the frame can include frame elements, such as one or more positioning elements and/or one or more tensioning elements.

FIG8 depicts aspects of a refrigeration device in a basic cross-sectional view. For illustrative purposes, FIG8 shows a portion of a refrigeration device that can be combined with other features described herein. FIG8 depicts a liquid-impermeable container 300 including a substantially flat wall 320. Within the interior volume of the liquid-impermeable container 300 is an area 305 sized and shaped to form a space adjacent to a set of refrigeration coils. The outer vertical wall of the substantially flat wall 320 of the liquid-impermeable container 300 is a thermally conductive wall 805. The thermally conductive wall 805, combined with a lower outer wall 830 and the lower wall of the liquid-impermeable container 300, forms an outer shell 810. Positioned within the outer shell 810, adjacent to the walls of the outer shell 810, is an insulating layer 820. Positioned within the insulating layer 820 is a frame 600 sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerating a phase change material. In the illustrated embodiment, an inner wall 850 separates the insulating layer from a phase change material layer 840 positioned between the insulating layer 820 and the frame 600. In an embodiment, the system is integrated in such a manner that the system operates as a unique system specifically configured for the functions of the refrigeration unit, and any associated computing device of the system operates as a specific-purpose computer for the claimed system, rather than a general-purpose computer. In an embodiment, at least one associated computing device of the system operates as a specific-purpose computer for the claimed system, rather than a general-purpose computer. In an embodiment, at least one associated computing device of the system is hardwired with a specific ROM to instruct the at least one computing device. In an embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the refrigeration unit and system provide improvements, at least in the field of refrigeration technology based on intermittent power sources, such as in remote or resource-challenged areas.

The present disclosure has been made with reference to various exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the various operational steps and components for performing the operational steps may be implemented in alternative manners depending on the specific application or considering any number of cost functions associated with the operation of the system; for example, one or more steps may be deleted, modified, or combined with other steps.

In addition, the principles of the present disclosure, including components, can be reflected in a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code means embodied in the storage medium. Any tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium can be used, including magnetic storage devices (hard disks, floppy disks, etc.), optical storage devices (CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), flash memory, and/or the like. These computer program instructions can be loaded onto a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, such that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable data processing device create a means for implementing a specified function. For example, the computer program instructions can be integrated into the circuitry of a controller of an embodiment of a refrigeration device. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory, which can direct the computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a specific manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture, including a device that implements the specified function. The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device to cause a series of operational steps to be executed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable device provide the steps for implementing the specified function.

In a general sense, the various aspects described herein may be implemented individually and/or collectively by various hardware, software (e.g., a high-level computer program used as a hardware specification), firmware, and/or any combination thereof, and may be considered to be comprised of various types of "circuits." Thus, as used herein, "circuitry" includes, but is not limited to, a circuit having at least one discrete circuit, a circuit having at least one integrated circuit, a circuit having at least one application-specific integrated circuit, a circuit forming a general-purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general-purpose computer configured by a computer program that at least partially executes the processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program that at least partially executes the processes and/or devices described herein), a circuit forming a memory device (e.g., in the form of memory (e.g., random access, flash memory, read-only, etc.)), and/or a circuit forming a communication device (e.g., a modem, a communication switch, an optoelectronic device, etc.). The subject matter described herein may be implemented in analog or digital form, or some combination thereof.

This specification has been described with reference to various embodiments. However, various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within its scope. Similarly, the above describes benefits, other advantages and solutions to problems with respect to various embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage or solution to occur or become more significant are not interpreted as being key, necessary or basic features or elements. As used herein, the terms "comprise," "comprising" and any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that the process, method, article or device comprising a series of elements does not only include those elements, but may also include other elements that are not explicitly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article or device.

Aspects of the subject matter described herein are listed in the following numbered clauses:

1. A refrigeration device comprising:

forming one or more walls of a substantially liquid-impermeable container configured to retain a phase change material within the interior of the refrigeration device;

at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container;

one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; and

A heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; and a connector having a hollow interior space attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator.

2. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the liquid-impermeable container is positioned above the storage area in the refrigeration device.

3. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the liquid-impermeable container comprises:

an orifice having a size, shape, and location that allows the set of evaporator coils to extend across the orifice; and

A liquid impermeable seal is formed between a surface of the orifice and a surface of the set of evaporator coils.

4. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the one or more walls forming the substantially liquid-impermeable container comprise a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

5. A refrigeration device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container include multiple layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers includes a non-flat area to form multiple sides of the liquid-impermeable container.

6. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the one or more walls substantially forming the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to form an access opening.

7. The refrigeration unit of clause 1, wherein the one or more walls substantially forming the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to reversibly mate with a door.

8. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area form five sides of a cuboid structure.

9. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area comprise a plurality of layers, and the evaporator is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

10. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Active cooling system.

11. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Electric compression system.

12. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising the set of evaporator coils comprises:

a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container;

a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and

A frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material is in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils.

13. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the heat transfer system forms a one-way heat conductor within the refrigeration device.

14. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the heat transfer system comprises a continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space, and an evaporative liquid sealed within the continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space.

15. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser form a branched structure.

16. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

17. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

18. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator form a branched structure.

19. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

20. The refrigeration device of clause 1, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

21. The refrigeration appliance of clause 1, wherein the connector is a substantially linear structure that is positioned substantially vertically when the refrigeration appliance is in the use position.

22. A refrigeration device according to claim 1, wherein the connector includes a plurality of conduits, a first end of the plurality of conduits being attached to the evaporator and a second end being attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser.

23. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

A phase change material is positioned within the liquid-impermeable container.

24. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

An access cover is provided within a top surface of the liquid-impermeable container, the access cover being configured to provide user access to the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container.

25. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

At least one valve is connected to the connector, the valve being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector.

26. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

at least one sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and

A controller is operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor.

27. The refrigeration device according to clause 26, wherein the controller comprises:

Circuitry is provided for turning the at least one active cooling unit on and off in response to data received from the sensor.

28. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

a thermal control device coupled to the connector, the thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector;

at least one sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and

A controller is operably attached to the thermal control and the sensor.

29. The refrigeration device of clause 28, wherein the controller comprises:

Circuitry is provided for sending a control signal to the thermal control device in response to data received from the sensor.

30. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

a frame attached to the outer surface of the one or more walls forming substantially the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and

At least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner oriented to compress the one or more containers against the one or more walls.

31. The refrigeration device of clause 30, wherein the frame comprises at least one positioning element oriented to facilitate positioning the one or more containers for frozen phase change material adjacent the exterior surface of the one or more walls.

32. The refrigeration device of clause 30, wherein the frame is located within a second liquid-impermeable container.

33. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

a housing surrounding the liquid-impermeable container, the set of evaporator coils, the one or more walls substantially forming a storage area, and the heat transfer system; and

A door within the housing is positioned to reversibly allow a user to access the storage area.

34. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

A power monitor is operably attached to the controller.

35. The refrigeration device according to clause 1, further comprising:

a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including a region protruding beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container;

a housing attached to the region of the thermally conductive wall, the region of the thermally conductive wall projecting beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including a thermally insulating layer adjacent the region of the thermally conductive wall; and

A frame is attached within the housing, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material.

36. A refrigeration device comprising:

one or more walls forming a substantially liquid-impermeable container configured to retain a phase change material within an interior space of the refrigeration device, wherein the one or more walls integrally comprise a first plurality of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first plurality of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser;

at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container;

one or more walls substantially forming a storage area and integrally comprising a second set of vapor impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form an evaporator; and

A connector is attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator, wherein the condenser, the evaporator and the connector form a heat transfer system integral to the refrigeration device.

37. The refrigeration unit of clause 36, wherein the liquid-impermeable container is positioned above the storage area in the refrigeration unit.

38. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the liquid-impermeable container comprises:

an orifice having a size, shape, and location that allows the set of evaporator coils to extend across the orifice; and

A liquid impermeable seal is formed between a surface of the orifice and a surface of the set of evaporator coils.

39. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls forming the substantially liquid-impermeable container comprise a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

40. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container comprise a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers comprises a non-planar area to form multiple sides of the liquid-impermeable container.

41. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser form a branched structure.

42. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the first set of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container.

43. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the first set of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container.

44. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Active cooling system.

45. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Electric compression system.

46. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container;

a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and

A frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material is in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils.

47. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls substantially forming the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to form an access opening.

48. The refrigeration unit of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls substantially forming the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to reversibly mate with a door.

49. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area form five sides of a cuboid structure.

50. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area comprise a plurality of layers, and the evaporator is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

51. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator form a branched structure.

52. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

53. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the second set of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator is in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container.

54. The refrigeration appliance of clause 36, wherein the connector is a substantially linear structure that is positioned substantially vertically when the refrigeration appliance is in the use position.

55. A refrigeration device according to claim 36, wherein the connector includes a plurality of conduits, a first end of the plurality of conduits being attached to the evaporator and a second end being attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser.

56. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the heat transfer system forms a one-way heat conductor within the refrigeration device.

57. The refrigeration device of clause 36, wherein the heat transfer system comprises a continuous substantially sealed hollow interior space, and an evaporative liquid sealed within the continuous substantially sealed hollow interior space.

58. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

A phase change material is positioned within the liquid-impermeable container.

59. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

An access cover is provided within a top surface of the liquid-impermeable container, the access cover being configured to provide user access to the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container.

60. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

At least one thermal control device is coupled to the connector, the thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a dimension of the hollow interior space of the connector.

61. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

at least one sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and

A controller is operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor.

62. The refrigeration device of clause 61, wherein the controller comprises:

Circuitry is provided for turning the at least one active cooling unit on and off in response to data received from the sensor.

63. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

a thermal control device coupled to the connector, the thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector;

at least one sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils; and

A controller is operably attached to the thermal control and the sensor.

64. The refrigeration device of clause 63, wherein the controller comprises:

Circuitry is provided for sending a control signal to the thermal control device in response to data received from the sensor.

65. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

a frame attached to the outer surface of the one or more walls forming substantially the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and

At least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner oriented to compress the one or more containers against the one or more walls.

66. The refrigeration device of clause 65, wherein the frame comprises at least one positioning element oriented to facilitate positioning the one or more containers for frozen phase change material adjacent the exterior surface of the one or more walls.

67. The refrigeration device of clause 65, wherein the frame is located within a second liquid-impermeable container.

68. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

a housing surrounding the liquid-impermeable container, the set of evaporator coils, the one or more walls substantially forming a storage area, and the heat transfer system; and

A door within the housing is positioned to reversibly allow a user to access the storage area.

69. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

A power monitor is operably attached to the controller.

70. The refrigeration device according to clause 36, further comprising:

a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including a region protruding beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container;

a housing attached to the region of the thermally conductive wall, the region of the thermally conductive wall projecting beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including a thermally insulating layer adjacent the region of the thermally conductive wall; and

A frame is attached within the housing, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material.

71. A refrigeration device comprising:

forming one or more walls of a substantially liquid-impermeable container configured to retain the phase change material within the refrigeration device;

at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container;

a sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils;

one or more walls that substantially form a storage area;

a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a liquid impermeable container; a second set of vapor impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with one or more walls that substantially form a storage area; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator; and

A controller is operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor.

72. The refrigeration unit of clause 71, wherein the liquid-impermeable container is positioned above the storage area in the refrigeration unit.

73. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the liquid-impermeable container comprises:

an orifice having a size, shape, and location that allows the set of evaporator coils to extend across the orifice; and

A liquid impermeable seal is formed between a surface of the orifice and a surface of the set of evaporator coils.

74. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the one or more walls forming the substantially liquid-impermeable container comprise a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

75. A refrigeration device according to clause 71, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container include multiple layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers includes a non-flat area to form multiple sides of the liquid-impermeable container.

76. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Active cooling system.

77. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises:

Electric compression system.

78. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising the set of evaporator coils comprises:

a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the one or more walls that substantially form the liquid-impermeable container;

a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being located within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and

A frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material is in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils.

79. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils is positioned so as to be immersed in phase change material when the refrigeration device is in use.

80. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls and the set of evaporator coils comprises:

Temperature sensor.

81. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to form an access opening.

82. The refrigeration unit of clause 71, wherein the one or more walls substantially forming the storage area include an aperture having a location, size, and shape to reversibly mate with a door.

83. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area form five sides of a cuboid structure.

84. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the one or more walls that substantially form the storage area comprise a plurality of layers, and the evaporator is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers.

85. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the heat transfer system forms a one-way heat conductor within the refrigeration device.

86. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the heat transfer system comprises a continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space, and an evaporative liquid sealed within the continuous, substantially sealed hollow interior space.

87. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser form a branched structure.

88. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

89. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

90. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator form a branched structure.

91. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

92. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are in direct thermal contact with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container.

93. The refrigeration appliance of clause 71, wherein the connector is a substantially linear structure that is positioned substantially vertically when the refrigeration appliance is in the use position.

94. A refrigeration device according to claim 71, wherein the connector includes a plurality of conduits, a first end of the plurality of conduits being attached to the evaporator and a second end being attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser.

95. The refrigeration device of clause 71, wherein the controller comprises:

Circuitry is provided for turning the at least one active cooling unit on and off in response to data received from the sensor.

96. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

A phase change material is positioned within the liquid-impermeable container.

97. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

An access cover is provided within a top surface of the liquid-impermeable container, the access cover being configured to provide user access to the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container.

98. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

At least one thermal control device is coupled to the connector, the at least one thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a dimension of the hollow interior space of the connector.

99. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

A thermal control device is connected to the connector, the thermal control device is positioned and configured to reversibly control the size of the hollow interior space of the connector, the thermal control device is operably attached to the controller and is configured to receive a control signal from the controller.

100. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

a frame attached to the outer surface of the one or more walls forming substantially the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and

At least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner oriented to compress the one or more containers against the one or more walls.

101. The refrigeration device of clause 100, wherein the frame comprises at least one positioning element oriented to facilitate positioning the one or more containers for frozen phase change material adjacent the exterior surface of the one or more walls.

102. The refrigeration device of clause 100, wherein the frame is located within a second liquid-impermeable container.

103. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

a housing surrounding the liquid-impermeable container, the set of evaporator coils, the one or more walls substantially forming a storage area, and the heat transfer system; and

A door within the housing is positioned to reversibly allow a user to access the storage area.

104. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

A power monitor is operably attached to the controller.

105. The refrigeration device according to clause 71, further comprising:

a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including a region protruding beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container;

a housing attached to the region of the thermally conductive wall, the region of the thermally conductive wall projecting beyond an edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including a thermally insulating layer adjacent the region of the thermally conductive wall; and

A frame is attached within the housing, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material.

All of the above U.S. patents, U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications, foreign patents, foreign patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in this specification and/or listed in any application data sheet are incorporated herein by reference unless they conflict with this document. Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the appended claims.

Claims (34)

1. A refrigeration device comprising: forming one or more walls of a liquid-impermeable container configured to retain a phase change material within the interior of the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls forming a storage area; and a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; a second set of vapor-impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor-impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls forming the storage area; and a connector, the hollow interior spaces of the connector being attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator; The refrigeration device further comprises any one of the following structures a), b) and c): a) the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises: a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and a frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material, the frame being in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils; b) the refrigeration device further comprising: a frame attached to an outer surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and at least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner being oriented to press the one or more containers against the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; c) The refrigeration device further includes: a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including an area that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container; a housing attached to the area of the thermally conductive wall that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including an insulation layer adjacent to the area of the thermally conductive wall; and a frame attached within the housing, the frame having a size and shape to enclose one or more containers for freezing phase change material. 2. The refrigeration device of claim 1, wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container include a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers. 3. The refrigeration device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container include a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers includes a non-planar area to form multiple sides of the liquid-impermeable container. 4. The refrigeration device of claim 1, wherein the one or more walls forming the storage area include a plurality of layers, and the evaporator is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers. 5. The refrigeration device of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 6. The refrigeration device of claim 1, wherein the second set of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 7. The refrigeration device of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a plurality of conduits having a first end attached to the evaporator and a second end attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser. 8. The refrigeration device according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one valve is connected to the connector, the valve being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector. 9. The refrigeration device according to claim 1, further comprising: at least one sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils; and A controller is operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor. 10. The refrigeration device according to claim 1, further comprising: a thermal control device coupled to the connector, the thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector; at least one sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils; and A controller is operably attached to the thermal control and the sensor. 11. The refrigeration device according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising: A power monitor is operably attached to the controller. 12. A refrigeration device comprising: forming one or more walls of a liquid-impermeable container configured to retain a phase change material within a refrigeration device, wherein the one or more walls integrally comprise a first plurality of vapor-impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form a condenser; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; one or more walls forming a storage region and integrally comprising a second set of vapor impermeable structures having hollow interior spaces connected to form an evaporator; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior space of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator, wherein the condenser, the evaporator, and the connector form a heat transfer system integral to the refrigeration device; The refrigeration device further comprises any one of the following structures a), b) and c): a) the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises: a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and a frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material, the frame being in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils; b) the refrigeration device further comprising: a frame attached to an outer surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and at least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner being oriented to press the one or more containers against the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; c) The refrigeration device further includes: a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including an area that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container; a housing attached to the area of the thermally conductive wall that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including an insulation layer adjacent to the area of the thermally conductive wall; and a frame attached within the housing, the frame having a size and shape to enclose one or more containers for freezing phase change material. 13. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container include a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers. 14. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid impermeable container include a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers includes a non-planar area to form multiple sides of the liquid impermeable container. 15. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the first set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser form a branched structure. 16. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the first plurality of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 17. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the one or more walls forming the storage area form five sides of a rectangular parallelepiped structure. 18. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the second set of vapor-impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator form a branched structure. 19. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the second set of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 20. The refrigeration device of claim 12, wherein the connector comprises a plurality of conduits having a first end attached to the evaporator and a second end attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser. 21. The refrigeration device according to claim 12, further comprising: at least one sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils; and A controller is operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor. 22. The refrigeration device according to claim 12, further comprising: a thermal control device coupled to the connector, the thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a size of the hollow interior space of the connector; at least one sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils; and A controller is operably attached to the thermal control and the sensor. 23. The refrigeration device according to claim 21 or 22, further comprising: A power monitor is operably attached to the controller. 24. A refrigeration device comprising: forming one or more walls of a liquid-impermeable container configured to retain the phase change material within the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit, the at least one active refrigeration unit comprising a set of evaporator coils positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; a sensor positioned within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils; one or more walls forming a storage area; a heat transfer system comprising: a first set of vapor impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the first set of vapor impermeable structures being connected to form a condenser, the condenser being in thermal contact with the one or more walls forming the liquid impermeable container; a second set of vapor impermeable structures, the hollow interior spaces of the second set of vapor impermeable structures being connected to form an evaporator, the evaporator being in thermal contact with the one or more walls forming the storage area; and a connector attached to both the condenser and the evaporator, the connector forming a liquid and vapor flow path between the hollow interior spaces of the condenser and the hollow interior space of the evaporator; and a controller operably attached to the at least one active refrigeration unit and the sensor; The refrigeration device further comprises any one of the following structures a), b) and c): a) the at least one active refrigeration unit comprises: a first portion of the set of evaporator coils, the first portion being positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; a second portion of the set of evaporator coils, the second portion being positioned within the interior space of the liquid-impermeable container; and a frame sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for refrigerated phase change material, the frame being in thermal contact with the first portion of the set of evaporator coils; b) the refrigeration device further comprising: a frame attached to an outer surface of the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container at a location distal to the condenser, the frame being sized and shaped to enclose one or more containers for frozen phase change material; and at least one tensioner within the frame, the tensioner being oriented to press the one or more containers against the one or more walls forming the liquid-impermeable container; c) The refrigeration device further includes: a thermally conductive wall integral with the liquid-impermeable container, the thermally conductive wall including an area that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container; a housing attached to the area of the thermally conductive wall that protrudes beyond the edge of the liquid-impermeable container of the thermally conductive wall, the housing including an insulation layer adjacent to the area of the thermally conductive wall; and a frame attached within the housing, the frame having a size and shape to enclose one or more containers for freezing phase change material. 25. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid impermeable container include a plurality of layers, and the condenser is positioned adjacent a surface of at least one of the plurality of layers. 26. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the one or more walls forming the liquid impermeable container include a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the one or more layers includes a non-planar area to form multiple sides of the liquid impermeable container. 27. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the sensor located within the liquid impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils is positioned so as to be immersed in phase change material when the refrigeration device is in use. 28. The refrigeration unit of claim 24, wherein the sensor located within the liquid-impermeable container between the one or more walls of the liquid-impermeable container and the set of evaporator coils comprises: Temperature sensor. 29. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the first plurality of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the condenser are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 30. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the second plurality of vapor impermeable structures connected with a hollow interior space to form the evaporator are integral with at least one of the one or more walls of the liquid impermeable container. 31. The refrigeration device of claim 24, wherein the connector comprises a plurality of conduits having a first end attached to the evaporator and a second end attached to the condenser, and wherein each conduit is positioned and configured to provide a bidirectional flow path for liquid and vapor between the interior space of the evaporator and the interior space of the condenser. 32. The refrigeration device according to claim 24, further comprising: At least one thermal control device is coupled to the connector, the at least one thermal control device being positioned and configured to reversibly control a dimension of the hollow interior space of the connector. 33. The refrigeration device according to claim 24, wherein when the refrigeration device includes the b) structure, the frame is located in a second liquid-impermeable container. 34. The refrigeration device according to claim 24, further comprising: A power monitor is operably attached to the controller.