Anatomy of a Cool Cube™

Introduction

The Cool Cube™ is an advanced temperature-controlling transport system that maintains the integrity of temperature-sensitive products such as vaccines, medicines, and biological specimens. This document provides a detailed breakdown of the three key components that make up the Cool Cube™ and their roles in ensuring optimal thermal stability:

• 1. PCM (Phase Change Material) Panels: These panels regulate the internal temperature of the Cool Cube™ by absorbing and releasing thermal energy at specific temperature points. They come in different types and sizes based on the required temperature range and size of the Cool Cube™.
• 2. Temp-Shield™ Insulation System: Constructed of six one-inch-thick VIPs (Vacuum Insulated Panels), this high-performance insulation system drastically reduces heat transfer, ensuring long-lasting temperature stability within the Cool Cube™.
• 3. Transport Case: A durable, portable outer shell protects the internal components while providing easy mobility and accessibility.

Each section below will explore these components in detail, explaining their functionality, importance, and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of the Cool Cube™.

Section 1: PCM Panels

Phase Change Technology

Phase change technology utilizes materials that undergo phase transitions—such as melting and freezing—to absorb and release thermal energy at a consistent temperature. This process ensures that temperature-sensitive products remain within their required thermal range without fluctuations.

What Are PCM Panels?

Cool Cube™ PCM panels, engineered with temperature-specific phase change materials (PCMs), absorb and release heat energy to maintain a stable temperature for the Cool Cube™.

Each Cool Cube™ has six interlocking PCM panels that fit inside the VIP system, forming the payload area where temperature-sensitive products are stored. These panels encase the contents, providing uniform thermal distribution and preventing temperature fluctuations.

How PCMs Work

PCM panels store and release thermal energy during phase transitions. When PCM changes from a solid to a liquid, it absorbs large amounts of heat without increasing temperature. Conversely, when solidifying, it releases that stored heat while maintaining a consistent temperature. This process is known as latent heat storage, crucial for maintaining precise thermal conditions.

Compared to traditional cooling methods, PCM panels:

• Store 5 to 14 times more heat per unit volume than conventional materials.
• Maintain a near-constant temperature during phase transitions, eliminating temperature spikes.
• Are safer, more effective, and more stable than ice, gel, and dry ice packs.

The Dangers of Ice vs. PCM Precision

Risk of Freezing Damage: Traditional ice packs can cause temperature-sensitive products like vaccines and biological samples to freeze if they come into direct contact. Many vaccines lose efficacy when exposed to temperatures below their recommended storage range.

PCM as the Safe Alternative: Unlike ice, PCM panels maintain specific temperature thresholds without risk of accidental freezing. For example, PCM panels for refrigeration (2-8°C) ensure that vaccines stay within their required range, preventing overheating and freezing.

No Need for Buffering Material: Ice and gel packs often require additional buffering material to prevent direct contact with the product. PCM panels, however, regulate the temperature at the exact required range, eliminating the need for extra insulation layers and improving space efficiency.

Types of PCM Panels

Refrigerator Temps PCM (Blue)

• Temperature Range: 2-8°C | 1-10°C | 1-6°C
• Application: Vaccines, medicines, blood products, tissues, and organs
• Phase Change Point: 4.5°C (40.1°F)
• Ensures stable refrigeration temperature without the risk of accidental freezing.
• Safer and more effective than ice packs.
• Used in VT Line for vaccine and medicine transport and BT Line for blood products, tissues, and organ transport.

Controlled Room Temps PCM (Tan)

• Temperature Range: 15°-25°C, 20°-24°C
• Application: FFPE tissue, platelets, biospecimens
• Phase Change Point: 21.5°C (70.7°F)
• Maintains warm temperatures for days, preventing exposure to extreme cold or heat.
• Ideal for biological specimens requiring stable ambient conditions.
• No need for additional bulky buffering materials.

Lab Freezer Temps PCM (Grey)

• Temperature Range: -50° to -15°C
• Application: Frozen vaccines, varicella, MMRV, zoster, fresh frozen plasma
• Phase Change Point: -21.5°C (-6.7°F)
• Provides ultra-low temperature storage, acting as a dry-ice alternative.
• Eliminates the risk of the product getting too warm.
• Designed for frozen biological materials needing reliable thermal stability.

Section 2: Temp-Shield™ Insulation System

Composition & Structure

The Temp-Shield™ Insulation System of the Cool Cube™ has six VIPs (vacuum insulated panels) constructed of fumed silica core material, which provides ultra-low thermal conductivity. Each VIP panel consists of multiple layers designed to enhance insulation performance and durability:

• Fumed Silica Core: The primary insulating material, offering minimal heat transfer.
• Protective Non-Woven Fabric: Encapsulates the core, preventing material breakdown.
• Metallic Barrier Film: Maintains the vacuum seal, preventing gas penetration and ensuring long-term efficiency.
• Reinforcement Layers: Additional structural integrity to maintain shape and effectiveness.
• Transparent Polycarbonate Film: Provides an extra layer of durability and protection.

Performance Advantages of the Temp-Shield™ Insulation System

• 5x better thermal resistance than conventional foam insulation.
• Maximizes storage capacity while reducing bulk.
• Ensures temperature stability for up to 20 years.
• Works across broad temperature ranges (-86°C to +90°C).

Section 3: Transport Case

Cool Cube™ Models & Case Construction

The Cool Cube™ transport cases provide rugged protection and easy portability for temperature-sensitive products. Each model varies in size, mobility features, and external dimensions, ensuring the right fit for different transport needs.