US 2015/0082815 A1 · MODIFIED AND CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for creating and maintaining modified and controlled atmospheres (MA/CA) in a rigid sealable container having at least one refrigeration unit with an integrated oxygen reduction structure. The refrigeration unit provides the necessary ambient atmosphere movement for the oxygen reduction structure, such as a hydrogen fuel cell. The systems and methods are useful in the, storage, transport, distribution, processing and packaging of fresh perishables with a focus on altering the natural gaseous environment around the perishables such that fresh shelf-life is extended. The systems may operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and back-up power.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A method for extending the storage life of non-respiring foodstuffs comprising:

generating and maintaining a modified and controlled atmosphere (MA/CA) environment in a mechanically refrigerated system within a rigid sealable container, the mechanically refrigerated system having at least one mechanical refrigeration unit, by:
generating a recirculating forced atmosphere stream within the rigid sealable container by operation of said mechanical refrigeration unit, the recirculating forced atmosphere stream being from the ambient atmosphere inside the rigid sealable container;
positioning an oxygen reduction means along the recirculating forced atmosphere stream within the container interior to reduce the amount of oxygen within the forced atmosphere stream;
and
operating the oxygen reduction means on the recirculating forced atmosphere stream in an oxygen reduction mode to reduce the oxygen level to, and maintain the oxygen level at, 10,000 ppm or less inside the rigid sealable container.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Modified and controlled atmosphere system and method

Life of this patent

Modified and controlled atmosphere system and method

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20