AIRFLOW GUIDANCE STRUCTURES FOR REFRIGERATED TRANSPORT CONTAINERS

Abstract

A refrigerated transport container includes a refrigeration unit and an airflow guidance structure for distributing cooled air throughout the refrigerated transport container. The airflow guidance structure includes a front panel section that is affixed at a front end of an interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container, and that receives cooled air from a fan outlet of the refrigeration unit. A series of additional panel sections are affixed along the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container from the front panel section to the back of the refrigerated transport container. The panel sections together form an air channel at the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container that conducts air from the front end to the back end, and allows for passage of cooled air from the air channel out to an interior of the refrigerated transport container.

Claims

1. An airflow guidance structure for distributing cooled air throughout a refrigerated transport container, the airflow guidance structure comprising: a front panel section that is configured to be affixed at an interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and at a front end of the refrigerated transport container, and is configured to receive cooled air from a fan outlet of a refrigeration unit that is functionally coupled to the refrigerated transport container; and a series of additional panel sections that are configured to be affixed along the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container from the front panel section at the front of the refrigerated transport container to a back of the refrigerated transport container, with each additional panel section being adjacent to a previous panel section and having a lesser width than that of the previous panel section; wherein the front panel section and the series of additional panel sections together are configured to form an air channel at the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container that conducts air from the front end of the refrigerated transport container to the back end of the transport container, and to allow for passage of cooled air from the air channel out to an interior of the refrigerated transport container that is outside of the airflow guidance structure.

2. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein each panel section of the series of additional panel sections includes at least one positive joint that is configured to be inserted into a corresponding negative joint of a preceding panel section, and at least one negative joint that is configured to receive a corresponding positive joint of a succeeding panel section.

3. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein each panel section of the series of additional panel sections includes, at its leading edge, at least one piece of attachment hardware that is configured to engage with corresponding attachment hardware of a preceding panel section, and at its trailing edge, at least one piece of attachment hardware that is configured to engage with corresponding attachment hardware of a succeeding panel section.

4. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein each panel section of the series of additional panel sections includes a strip of gasket material at a leading edge of the panel section.

5. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein the front panel section is a single manufactured section.

6. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein the front panel section is the width of the interior of the refrigerated transport container to which it is configured to be affixed.

7. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein each panel section of the series of additional panel sections is a single manufactured section and is distinct from other panel sections.

8. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein each panel section of the series of additional panel sections includes a right side component, a left side component, and a middle component.

9. The airflow guidance structure of claim 8, wherein the right side component and the left side component are similarly sized and have opposite geometries.

10. The airflow guidance structure of claim 8, wherein the right side component of each additional panel section is identical to other right side components, and wherein the left side component of each additional panel section is identical to other left side components.

11. The airflow guidance structure of claim 8, wherein the middle component of an additional panel section at a beginning of the series of additional panel sections has a greater width than the middle component of an additional panel section at an end of the series of additional panel sections.

12. The airflow guidance structure of claim 8, wherein each middle component of each panel section includes a center hole through which cooled air is allowed to pass from the air channel formed by the airflow guidance structure, out to the interior of the refrigerated transport container that is outside of the airflow guidance structure.

13. The airflow guidance structure of claim 12, wherein the center hole of the middle component of an additional panel section at a beginning of the series of additional panels sections has a smaller area than the center hole of the middle component of an additional panel section at an end of the series of additional panel sections.

14. The airflow guidance structure of claim 8, wherein the right side component and the left side component each include (i) a respective mounting portion that is to be parallel to the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container, (ii) a respective angled portion that is to form a downward angle from the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container, and (iii) a respective channel portion that is to be parallel to the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and at a distance beneath the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container.

15. The airflow guidance structure of claim 14, wherein the respective mounting portions of the right side component and the left side component are each configured to be removably attached to a corresponding mounting structure that is affixed to the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container.

16. The airflow guidance structure of claim 14, wherein the respective angled portions of the right side component and the left side component each include at least one side hole through which cooled air is allowed to pass from the air channel formed by the airflow guidance structure, out to the interior of the refrigerated transport container that is outside of the airflow guidance structure.

17. The airflow guidance structure of claim 14, wherein the respective channel portions of the right side component and the left side component are configured to be joined with the middle component to complete assembly of the panel section.

18. The airflow guidance structure of claim 17, wherein the respective channel portions of the right side component and the left side component each include a receiving groove, and the middle component is configured to be slid into the receiving groves, between the right side component and the left side component, to complete assembly of the panel section.

19. The airflow guidance structure of claim 17, wherein the respective channel portions of the right side component and the left side component each include a touch fastening mechanism on the undersides of the channel portions, the middle component includes corresponding touch fastening mechanisms on an upper face of the middle component, and the middle component is configured to be pressed against the undersides of the channel portions of the right side component and the left side component, to complete assembly of the panel section.

20. The airflow guidance structure of claim 1, wherein the front panel section and the series of additional panel sections are together configured to form a v-shaped air channel at the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container.

21. A refrigerated transport container comprising: a refrigeration unit; and an airflow guidance structure for distributing cooled air throughout the refrigerated transport container, the airflow guidance structure comprising: a front panel section that is configured to be affixed at an interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and at a front end of the refrigerated transport container, and is configured to receive cooled air from a fan outlet of the refrigeration unit; and a series of additional panel sections that are configured to be affixed along the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container from the front panel section at the front of the refrigerated transport container to a back of the refrigerated transport container, with each additional panel section being adjacent to a previous panel section and having a lesser width than that of the previous panel section; wherein the front panel section and the series of additional panel sections together are configured to form an air channel at the interior ceiling of the refrigerated transport container that conducts air from the front end of the refrigerated transport container to the back end of the transport container, and to allow for passage of cooled air from the air channel out to an interior of the refrigerated transport container that is outside of the airflow guidance structure.

22. The refrigerated transport container of claim 21, wherein the refrigerated transport container is a boxcar.

23. The refrigerated transport container of claim 21, wherein the refrigerated transport container is an intermodal container.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 depicts an example refrigerated transport container.

[0011] FIG. 2 depicts example airflow guidance structures for circulating cooled air throughout a refrigerated transport container.

[0012] FIG. 3 depicts an example arrangement of openings in an airflow guidance structure.

[0013] FIG. 4 depicts example airflow velocities in the vicinity of a fan outlet of a refrigerated transport container system.

[0014] FIG. 5 depicts example panel configurations for airflow guidance structures.

[0015] FIG. 6 depicts example panel sections and features of an airflow guidance structure.

[0016] FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 depict example panel section components and example panel section assemblies of an airflow guidance structure.

[0017] FIG. 9 depicts an example panel section component.

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts views of an assembly of an example airflow guidance structure.

[0019] FIG. 11, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13 depict example airflow velocities in a refrigerated transport container.

[0020] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 depict example temperature maps of a refrigerated transport container.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0021] In general, refrigerated transport container systems can be used to provide a refrigerated environment for transporting goods. For example, a refrigerated transport container (e.g., a reefer) can be an intermodal container that can be used to transport goods by multiple different modes of transportation (e.g., rail, ship, aircraft, truck, etc.) without handling the goods themselves when changing transportation modes. In other examples, the refrigerated transport container can be configured to transport goods using a single mode of transportation (e.g., a refrigerated boxcar). The container can include be cooled by a refrigeration unit that connects to a power source (e.g., an electrical power point, a generator, etc.). The refrigeration unit, for example, can provide cooled air which is circulated throughout the container to keep the goods at a set temperature while the goods are being transported. Techniques and devices are described throughout this document for providing a more efficient, consistent, and even cooling of goods throughout the refrigerated transport container.

[0022] FIG. 1 depicts views 110 and 120 of an example refrigerated transport container 100. As shown in view 110 (an isometric view), the container 100 is substantially a cuboid (e.g., box-shaped), and includes an integrated refrigeration unit 102 at its front face, and a set of panels 104 that are linked together and situated along the interior of its top face (e.g., the ceiling of the container). The container 100, for example, can be insulated on its interior surfaces (e.g., ceiling, sides, floor), and can include various mounting structures (e.g., guide tracks, mounting rails, brackets, etc.) for attaching the panels 104 to the container 100. The panels 104 create one or more enclosed channels (e.g., enclosed channel 136) that run along the length of the container 100 at its ceiling, through which cooled air from the refrigeration unit 102 is directed. The refrigeration unit 102, for example, can be a device is functionally coupled to the container 100 (e.g. integrated and/or mechanically attached), and that takes in air from the container (and/or the outside environment), removes heat energy from the air, and delivers cooled air to the interior of the container. In the present example, the refrigeration unit 102 is integrated with the container 100, however in other example, a single refrigeration unit can provide cooling for multiple different containers. The cooled air can pass through holes in the panels 104, and can provide cooling to goods during transport (e.g., perishable goods such as fruit, vegetables, meat, etc., or other goods that are to be transported at a specified temperature). The goods can be loaded into the container 100 through a door 106, for example, which is located on a side of the container 100, although other door placements may be possible in other examples (e.g., at a back face of the container 100 opposite of the refrigeration unit 102 or another appropriate location). In the present example, the refrigerated transport container 100 can be a refrigerated boxcar (e.g., ranging in length from 64 to 72 feet, and ranging in height from 8 to 12 feet, with a width of around 10 feet) that is configured for transport by rail. In other examples, a refrigerated transport container can be an intermodal container (e.g., 20 or 40 feet in length, with a height of around 8feet 6 inches, and a width of around 8 feet).

[0023] As shown in view 120 (a sectional view that shows an interior of the refrigerated transport container 100 from the side), goods can be arranged in the refrigerated transport container 100 by being loaded onto pallets 108, which are in turn loaded into the container 100 in rows of pallets. In general, the goods on each pallet can be physically separate from the goods on other pallets, such that airspaces 140 exists between the palletized goods, and air is allowed to freely circulate throughout the container 100 around the palletized goods. For example, the airspaces 140 can be filled with porous structures that allow air circulation (e.g., dunnage) to prevent the pallets from shifting during transit. Detailed view 130 of the refrigeration unit 102 shows a fan outlet 132 and a fan inlet 134 of the unit. As shown in view 130, the refrigeration unit 102 produces cooled air, which is directed by a fan into the air channel 136 that is formed between the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container 100 and the panels 104. As cooled air travels along the air channel 136 from the front to the back of the container 100 (e.g., with the front of the container being an end of the container that houses the refrigeration unit 102 and the back of the container being the opposite end), some of the air exits the channel through holes 138 in the panels 104. The cooled air then passes over the top of the pallets 108 of goods, and sinks between the pallets 108 via the airspaces 140. The fan inlet 134 draws air from toward the floor of the container 100, and passes the air into the refrigeration unit 102 where the air is again cooled. From the perspective of view 120, for example, air continually circulates in a generally clockwise direction, with cooled air passing from the refrigeration unit 102, along the air channel 136, through the holes 138 of the panels 104, and down the airspaces 140, where it is then drawn toward the fan inlet 134 for recirculation.

[0024] FIG. 2 depicts example airflow guidance structures 200 and 250. Each of the structures 200, 250 are configured to be attached at the ceiling of a refrigerated transport container (e.g., similar to the container 100, shown in FIG. 1), and to circulate cooled air throughout the container. Airflow guidance structure 200, for example, includes a series of uniform panels 210 that are configured to be adjoined and attachably coupled to refrigerated transport container 202. Coupling of the panels 210 to the container 202, for example, can be achieved by sliding the left and right edges of the panels 210 into corresponding left and right guide tracks (not shown) that are affixed to the sides of the container 202 and that traverse the length of the container 202, and by fixing mounting portions 212 of the panels 210 to a mounting rail (not shown) that also traverses the length of the container 202. Attachment of the mounting portions 212 of the panels 210 (e.g., a raised portion that runs along the center of the panel) to the mounting rail can be accomplished, for example, with mounting bolts or other mechanical devices. Each of the panels 210 in the present example includes side holes 214 located near (e.g., within several inches of) the left and right edges of the panels, and center holes 216 along the mounting portions 212 of the panels. Cooled air that is produced by a refrigeration unit 220 of the container 202 can pass from plenums 222a, 222b (e.g., dual air channels that are formed between the adjoined and coupled panels 210 and the ceiling of the container 202) through the panel holes 214, 216, and onto goods that are stored in the container 202.

[0025] Airflow guidance structure 250, for example, includes a series of variably-sized panels 260a, 260b, 260c, etc., that are configured to be adjoined and attachably coupled to refrigerated transport container 252. Coupling of the panels 260 to the container 252, for example, can be achieved by attaching a left mounting portion 262 and a right mounting portion 264 of the panels to the ceiling of the container 252. In some implementations, removable attachment of a panel to an interior ceiling surface of a refrigerated transport container can be accomplished using mechanical coupling devices (e.g., mounting bolts, Velcro pads, or other suitable devices). For example, a left mounting rail and a right mounting rail (not shown) can be installed on the ceiling of the container 252, with each mounting rail traversing the length of the container at a designated angle. Each panel 260 can be mechanically coupled to the container 252, for example, by coupling the left mounting portion 262 of the panel 260 to the left mounting rail, and by coupling the right mounting portion 264 of the panel 260 to the right mounting rail. As another example, left and right Velcro mounting pads (not shown) can be installed on the ceiling of the container 252, with each mounting pad (or a series of pads) traversing the length of the container. Each panel 260 can be affixed to the container 252, for example, by establishing contact between the left mounting portion 262 (to which a Velcro attachment counterpart has been affixed) of the panel 260 to the left mounting pad, and by establishing contact between the right mounting portion 264 (to which a Velcro attachment counterpart has also been affixed) of the panel 260 to the right mounting pad.

[0026] The airflow guidance structure 250 in the present example forms a roughly c-shaped plenum 282 (e.g., a single air channel that is formed between the adjoined and coupled panels 260 and the ceiling of the container 252), which decreases in cross-sectional area along the length of the refrigerated transport container 252, from the front to the back of the container. (In contrast, each of the twin plenums 222a, 222b that are formed by the airflow guidance structure 200 have a consistent cross-sectional area from front to back.) In each of the panels 260, for example, the left mounting portion 262 and the right mounting portion 264 are substantially flat, and are configured for the mounting surfaces to be seated parallel to the ceiling of the container 252. Between the left mounting portion 262 and the right mounting portion 264, for example, the panel 260 includes a left angled portion and a corresponding right angled portion that directs the body of the panel downward from the ceiling, and a middle section between the left and right angled portion that is also parallel to the ceiling of the container 252, at a distance of several inches (e.g., in the range of 3 to 8 inches) from the ceiling, and above the goods being transported by the container 252. Each of the panels 260 in the present example includes one or more side holes 274 in each of the left and right angled portions, and one or more center holes 276 in the middle section of the panels. Cooled air that is produced by a refrigeration unit 280 of the container 252 can pass from the plenum 282 through the panel holes 274, 276, and onto goods that are stored in the container 252.

[0027] Although each of the airflow guidance structures 200 and 250 are described as including multiple discrete panels that are individually installed and adjoined, in some examples, an airflow guidance structure can be a single structure. However, the use of multiple component panels can provide the advantage of improved accessibility (e.g., physically moving the components into a refrigerated transport container) when constructing an airflow guidance structure. Further, a possibility exists that an airflow guidance structure may be accidentally damaged (e.g., when moving goods into or out of a refrigerated transport container). Through the use of multiple component panels, for example, a damaged section of the airflow guidance structure can be replaced without replacing an entire structure. In implementations that use Velcro-based panel installation, refrigerated transport containers can be advantageously retrofit to include an updated airflow guidance structure, without damaging the ceiling insulation. Further, the use of Velcro attachment surfaces can allow for flexible panel configuration and adjustment, and for simplified installation (e.g., without the use of tools).

[0028] FIG. 3 depicts an example arrangement of openings in an airflow guidance structure 350. The airflow guidance structure 350 shown in the present example is similar to the airflow guidance structure 250 (shown in FIG. 2), in that the airflow guidance structure 350 is attachably (and removably) coupled to the ceiling of refrigerated transport container 352 (which is depicted in an overhead sectional view) by mounting portions 362, 364, such that a plenum 382 is formed between the airflow guidance structure 350 and the ceiling of the container, and such that the plenum 382 decreases in cross-sectional area along the length of the container, from the front of the container (e.g., an end of the container at which a refrigeration unit 380 is located and at which cooled air is blown into the plenum) to the back of the container. As cooled air travels along the plenum 382 of the airflow guidance structure 350, for example, the air passes into an interior storage area of the container 352 through holes in the left and right angled portions of the structure (e.g., side hole 374), and through holes in the middle sections of the structure (e.g., center hole 276).

[0029] Decreasing the cross-sectional area of a plenum along an airflow guidance structure can provide improved airflow throughout a refrigerated transport container. As the cross- sectional area of the plenum 382 decreases from the front of the refrigerated transport container 352 to the back of the container, for example, the air pressure in the plenum 382 remains substantially constant, even though air escapes through the holes 374, 376 of the airflow guidance structure as it passes along the plenum 382. (This is in contrast to airflow guidance structure implementations that have a consistent cross-sectional plenum area from the front to the back of a container, in which the air pressure generally decreases along the plenum.) Thus, a velocity of the air that passes through the holes 374, 376 remains relatively constant along the airflow guidance structure 350, which provides even cooling throughout the container 352. Although the shape of the plenum 382 in the present example is roughly v-shaped (from an overhead perspective), in other examples the cross-sectional area of a plenum can be decreased along the plenum by reducing a plenum height from the front to the back of an airflow guidance structure and maintaining a constant plenum width, or by reducing the plenum height and reducing the plenum width less than shown in the present example. As another example, the side walls of an airflow guidance structure can be curved inward, rather than following straight lines as presently shown.

[0030] In some implementations, holes of an airflow guidance structure can include chamfered or rounded edges, to improve airflow throughout a refrigerated transport container. As shown in detailed view 390 (a side view) of the center hole 376, for example, a chamfered or rounded leading edge 392 can be applied to a portion of the hole that faces airflow across the plenum 382, to direct air from the plenum to goods below the airflow guidance structure. Similarly, a chamfered or rounded leading edge 394 can be applied to a portion of the hole that faces return airflow beneath the airflow guidance structure 350, to maintain air velocity across the goods being transported in the refrigerated transport container 352.

[0031] FIG. 4 depicts example airflow velocities in the vicinity of a fan outlet of a refrigerated transport container system. In configuration 400, for example, fan outlet 410 blows cooled air into plenum 412, which is formed between the ceiling 420 of a refrigerated transport container and the bottom of airflow guidance structure 430. The air gap of the plenum 412 in configuration 400 is relatively small (e.g., around four inches), which has been shown to generate relatively high static pressure, and which generally leads to relatively low air velocity from the fan outlet 410. Further, a return air channel 432 in the configuration 400 (e.g., a space beneath the airflow guidance structure 430 and above a stacked pallet of goods 440) also has relatively low air velocity. In configuration 450, however, the air gap of plenum 462 (e.g., between the ceiling 470 of a refrigerated transport container and the bottom of airflow guidance structure 480) has been substantially increased (e.g., to around eight inches). By increasing the air gap of the plenum 462, for example, the static pressure of the air can be decreased, which leads to higher air velocity from fan outlet 460 (e.g., relative to fan outlet 410). Further, a return air channel 482 in configuration 450 (e.g., a space beneath the airflow guidance structure 480 and above a stacked pallet of goods 490) also has relatively higher air velocity.

[0032] FIG. 5 depicts example panel configurations 500 and 550 for airflow guidance structures. Configuration 500, for example, can include a set of unique panel sections 510a, 510b, 510c, etc., 510n, with each panel section being a single manufactured component that is configured for placement in a respective designated portion of a refrigerated transport container (e.g., at the ceiling of the container), with each respective panel section being placed adjacent to another panel section such that a plenum is formed beneath the ceiling of the container from the front of the container to the back of the container. Similar to the airflow guidance structure 250 (shown in FIG. 2), for example, each of the unique panel sections 510a-n can include left and right mounting portions, and one or more ventilation holes (e.g., side holes, center holes, or both) for directing cooled air over goods being transported in the container. In some implementations, a front panel section (e.g., panel section 510a that is configured to receive cooled air from a refrigeration unit) may include no air holes. In the present example, each of the unique panel sections 510a-n is roughly rectangular when viewed from an overhead perspective, and can be appropriately sized based at least in part on the dimensions of the ceiling of a refrigerated transport container in which the panel sections are to be placed. For example, front panel section 510a can be approximately 10 in width by 4 in length for refrigerated boxcars. As another example, front panel section 510a can be approximately 8 in width by 3 in length for intermodal containers. Other sizing configurations are possible, depending on the container and on mechanisms used for installing the panel sections.

[0033] In some implementations, as a sequence of panel sections proceeds from the front of a refrigerated transport container to the back of the container, the width and length of the panel sections can be consistent. For example, each of panel sections 510a-n can have consistent width and length dimensions, and the panel sections can be configured such that left and right panel edges can slide into corresponding left and right guide tracks (not shown), and each panel section can be adjoined (and optionally coupled) to adjacent panel sections. Although the panel sections in the present example are similarly sized with respect to width and length, for example, the unique design of each panel section with respect to a channel portion of the panel section (e.g., a portion that projects downward from the ceiling of the container) causes a plenum with a progressively decreasing cross-sectional area to be formed when the panel sections are adjoined in the correct sequence.

[0034] In some implementations, as a sequence of panel sections proceeds from the front of a refrigerated transport container to the back of the container, widths of the panel sections can progressively decrease, and lengths of the panel sections can remain consistent. For example, each of panel sections 510a-n can have a substantially similar length dimension (e.g., with front panel section 510a optionally having a lesser or greater length relative to other panel sections, and with the other panel sections having a consistent length). A panel section at the front of the container (e.g., front panel section 510a) can have a maximum width dimension (e.g., the width of the container), with each subsequent panel section toward the back of the container having a progressively smaller width dimension, and with a panel section at the back of the container (e.g., panel section 510n) having a minimum width dimension (e.g., half the width of the container, two-thirds the width of the container, three-quarters the width of the container, or another appropriate width). A sequence of panel sections having progressively smaller width dimensions, for example, can be installed along left and right mounting rails (not shown) that traverse the length of the container at appropriate angles. A progressively smaller sizing of panel sections along the length of a container, for example, causes a plenum with a progressively decreasing cross-sectional area to be formed when the panel sections are adjoined.

[0035] In some implementations, as a sequence of panel sections proceeds from the front of a refrigerated transport container to the back of the container, a number, sizing, and/or arrangement of holes can be adjusted from panel section to panel section. In general, as air passes through panel holes, the air pressure decreases (and, thus, the velocity of the air exiting the holes decreases) along a plenum. However, by appropriately decreasing the cross-sectional area along the length of the plenum, a relatively constant air pressure can be maintained. In some configurations, it may be advantageous to minimize the variation in plenum width from the front to the back of the container, and to maintain a consistent volume of air being delivered across an airflow guidance structure by progressively increasing the number and/or sizing of panel holes for panel sections toward the back of the container. As shown in the present example, the size of a center panel hole for rear panel section 510n is larger than the size of a center panel hole for leading panel sections 510b and 510c. As another example, a number of side holes for rear panel section 510n can be greater than a number of side holes for leading panel sections 510b and 510c. Other hole arrangements are possible.

[0036] Referring to the depiction of configuration 550, for example, a set of unique panel sections 560a, 560b, 560c, etc., 560n of an airflow guidance structure is shown, with at least some of the panel sections including standard panel components, of which identical panel components are also included in other panel sections. The standard panel components, for example, can be adjustably assembled into a unique panel section. Similar to configuration 500, for example, each of the unique panel sections 560a-n (as assembled) can be positioned in a respective designated portion of a refrigerated transport container (e.g., at the ceiling of the container), with each respective panel section being placed adjacent to another panel section such that a plenum is formed beneath the ceiling of the container from the front of the container to the back of the container. Also similar to the airflow guidance structure 250 (shown in FIG. 2), for example, each of the unique panel sections 560a-n can include left and right mounting portions, and one or more ventilation holes (e.g., side holes, center holes, or both) for directing cooled air over goods being transported in the container. In the present example, front panel section 560a (e.g., a panel section that is configured to receive cooled air from a refrigeration unit) is a single manufactured component that includes no air holes, however in other examples, the front panel section may be assembled from one or more standard components (e.g., a standard right, left, and middle panel component), and/or may include one or more air holes. The other panel sections of the airflow guidance structure (e.g., panel sections 560b, 560c, etc., 560n) each include a standard left component 562, a standard right component 564, and a standard middle componentwith panel sections at the front of the container (e.g., panel sections 560b and 560c) including a large middle component 566, and with panel sections at the back of the container (e.g., panel section 560n) including a small middle component 568. In the present example, small middle components (e.g., middle components included in panel sections toward the back of the airflow guidance structure) can have larger air holes than large middle components (e.g., middle components included in panel sections toward the front of the airflow guidance structure), to compensate for a progressively decreasing width of the air holes as the width of the airflow guidance structure progressively decreases, to improve airflow toward the back of the container. In other examples, additional differently-sized standard middle components can be used to assemble panel sections along the length of the airflow guidance structure and/or differently- configured right and left components can be used (e.g., with the right and left components that are installed toward the back of the container having more and/or larger air holes than the right and left components that are installed toward the front of the container).

[0037] As shown in the depiction of configuration 550 of the airflow guidance structure, as a sequence of panels proceeds from the front of a refrigerated transport container to the back of the container, the widths of the panel sections can progressively be decreased, while the lengths of the panel sections remains constant through the use of the standard panel components. For example, each of the panel sections 560b, 560c, etc., 560n includes at least the left component 562 and the right component 564, which are of a consistent size (e.g., with a length of approximately 4 feet, or another suitable length) and mirror each other (e.g., with an opposite geometry). When assembling and installing a panel section, for example, the left component 562 can be affixed to a left mounting rail (not shown) that traverses the length of the container at an appropriate angle from a front left corner of the container toward a middle-left location at the back of the container. Similarly, the right component 564 can be affixed to a right mounting rail (not shown) that traverses the length of the container at an appropriate angle from a front right corner of the container toward a middle-right location at the back of the container. To complete the assembly of the panel section, for example, an appropriately-sized middle component (e.g., with larger-sized middle components for panel sections toward the front of the container and smaller-sized middle component for panel sections toward the back of the container) can be placed between the left component 562 and the right component 564. Similar to configuration 500, for example, panel section 560a at the front of the container can have a maximum width dimension (e.g., the width of the container), and each subsequent panel section toward the back of the container can have a progressively smaller width dimension, with panel section 560n at the back of the container having a minimum width dimension (e.g., half the width of the container, two-thirds the width of the container, three-quarters the width of the container, or another appropriate width). Progressively decreasing the width of panel sections along the length of the container, for example, can cause a plenum with a progressively decreasing cross-sectional area to be formed when the panel sections are adjoined.

[0038] Each of the configurations 500, 550 in the present example can be associated with particular advantages when installing an airflow guidance structure in a refrigerated transport container. Configuration 500 (e.g., each panel section being a single manufactured component) can allow for greater customization the airflow guidance structure. However, installation of the airflow guidance structure can be complicated by the handling of larger components, and the need to stock a greater number of components to complete an installation. Further, a particular set of panel sections that are configured to be installed in a particular refrigerated transport container may or may not be installable in a refrigerated transport container having different dimensions. Configuration 550 (e.g., at least some of the panel sections including standard components that are adjustably assembled during installation) can allow for easier handling of the components, the ability to stock fewer components to complete an installation, and the ability to potentially complete installations in containers of different sizes.

[0039] FIG. 6 depicts example panel sections and features of an airflow guidance structure. Various materials can be used to fabricate the panel sections, including sheet metal (e.g., galvanized steel or aluminum), fiberboard (e.g., compressed resin bonded into glass fibers), fiberglass (e.g., or sheet metal lined with a fiberglass liner), polymer plastic, or other suitable materials. Appropriate wall thicknesses of the panel sections can vary, depending on the materials used and the application. For example, standard wall thicknesses of panel sections can be an eight inch, a quarter inch, a half inch, three quarters of an inch, an inch, or another suitable wall thickness.

[0040] Referring to the depiction of panel section 600 (e.g., functionally similar to front panel sections 510a and 560a, shown in FIG. 5), for example, the panel section is a single manufactured component that is configured to receive cooled air from a refrigeration unit, and is configured to be placed at the front of a refrigerated transport container, adjacent to a fan outlet of the refrigeration unit. In general, a front panel section can be at least as wide as the fan outlet, and can be configured to gather airflow from the fan outlet and channel the airflow along a plenum that is created by subsequent panel sections. In the present example, the panel section 600 includes a center hole 610, a left side hole 620a, and a right side hole 620b. Each of the holes 610, 620a, 620b, for example, can allow cooled air to pass down from a plenum of an airflow guidance structure that includes the section, to goods that are being stored underneath the structure in the refrigerated transport container. In some configurations, the center hole 610 can be covered by a removable access panel (not shown) to provide operator access to the refrigeration unit.

[0041] Referring to the depiction of panel section 650 (e.g., functionally similar to front panel section 600, and front panel sections 510a and 560a (shown in FIG. 5)), for example, the panel section 650 is an alternate configuration of a front panel section. Similar to panel section 600, for example, panel section 650 is a single manufactured component that is configured to receive cooled air from a refrigeration unit, and is configured to be placed at the front of a refrigerated transport container, adjacent to a fan outlet of the refrigeration unit. In the present example, the panel section 650 includes a center hole 660 that can serve as a maintenance door (e.g., covered by a removable access panel, not shown) for the refrigeration unit. In contrast to the panel section 600, for example, the panel section 650 does not include left or right side holes. Rather, the panel section 650 of the present example has a flat surface (e.g., surface 670) on a portion of the panel section that extends downward from a ceiling of the refrigerated transport container, such that the panel section 650 is enclosed (e.g., when the center hole 660 is covered), and such that cooled air does not pass downward directly from the panel section onto goods below and is instead channeled along a plenum to subsequent panel sections of an airflow guidance structure.

[0042] In some implementations, a panel section can include one or more joining features to facilitate the connection of a panel sections and/or panel section components. The joining feature(s), for example, can facilitate the mounting of a panel section (or a component of the panel section) to the interior of a refrigerated transport container, can facilitate the coupling of panel sections/components to adjacent panel sections/components, and can improve safety during installation. For example, the panel section 650 can include left and right mounting surfaces (e.g., right mounting surface 680), left and right attachment joints (e.g., left negative attachment joint 682) and left and right attachment hardware mounting surfaces (e.g., right receiving surface 684).

[0043] In the present example, the mounting surfaces (e.g., surface 680) can be parallel to the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container when the panel section 650 is installed. As described elsewhere in this document, the mounting surface 680 can be affixed to a mounting structure (e.g., a mounting rail, pad, or another sort of mounting structure) that is in turn attached to the ceiling, or it can be affixed directly to the ceiling. Attachment of the mounting surface 680 to the mounting structure (or directly to the ceiling) can be accomplished through various mechanical mechanisms, including, but not limited to, mounting bolts, Velcro pads, etc., and/or chemical adhesives. The placement and use of mounting surfaces is described in additional detail elsewhere in this document (e.g., with respect to FIG. 8).

[0044] In the present example, the attachment joints (e.g., joint 682) can be positioned on a panel section (or a component of a panel section) such that a negative joint (e.g., an indentation in the panel section or component) is configured to receive a corresponding positive joint (e.g., a projection from the panel section or component) of an adjacent panel section (or a component of the panel section). The attachment joints, for example, can serve as installation guides when assembling the components (e.g., the series of panel sections) of an airflow guidance structure. Also, the attachment joints can provide stability to the airflow guidance structure when assembled. The placement and use of attachment joints is described in additional detail elsewhere in this document (e.g., with respect to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10).

[0045] In the present example, the attachment hardware mounting surfaces (e.g., surface 684) can serve to mount attachment hardware to panel sections/components. Attachment hardware (e.g., clasps, ties, bands, or other suitable hardware) can be physically mounted to the panel sections/components (e.g., by bolting the attachment hardware to the sections/components via hardware receiving holes at the surfaces, by using an adhesive to affix the attachment hardware at the surfaces, or using another suitable technique). When a panel section is installed next to an adjacent panel section, for example, the attachment hardware of the panel section can be engaged with corresponding attachment hardware of the adjacent panel section to create a tight and stable fit between panel sections. The placement and use of attachment hardware is described in additional detail elsewhere in this document (e.g., with respect to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10).

[0046] FIG. 7 depicts example panel section components and an example panel section assembly of an airflow guidance structure. Referring to the depiction of panel section 700 (e.g., functionally similar to each of the panel sections 560b-n, shown in FIG. 5), for example, the panel section includes a left component 762 (e.g., similar to the standard left component 562, shown in FIG. 5), a middle component 766 (e.g., similar to either of the middle small component 568 or the middle large component 566, also shown in FIG. 5), and a right component 764 (e.g., similar to the standard right component 564, also shown in FIG. 5). As described with respect to FIG. 5 for example, the left component 762 and the right component 764 can be similarly sized and configured, with each side component having an opposite geometry of the other. Features of the right component 764 are described here, but it is to be understood that similar features can exist in its left side counterpart (e.g., the left component 762).

[0047] The right component 764, for example, includes a mounting portion 780 that is to be parallel to the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container when the panel section 700 installed. As described elsewhere in this document, the mounting portion 780 can be affixed to a mounting structure (e.g., a mounting rail, pad, or another sort of mounting structure) that is in turn attached to the ceiling, or it can be affixed directly to the ceiling. Attachment of the mounting portion 780 to the mounting structure (or directly to the ceiling) can be accomplished through various mechanical mechanisms, including, but not limited to, mounting bolts, Velcro pads, etc., and/or chemical adhesives.

[0048] The right component 764 also includes an angled portion 782 that is to form a downward angle (e.g., 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 90 degrees, or another suitable downward angle) from the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container when the panel section is installed. In various implementations, the angled portion 782 may include no holes, or may include one or more optional holes of different possible shapes and sizes. In the present example, the angled portion 782 includes three holes (e.g., holes 792a, 792b, 792c), with a middle hole (e.g., hole 792b) being at the middle of the angled portion, and with each of holes the 792a and 792c being approximately one-sixth of the length of the component 764 from the nearest edge, such that an even spacing of holes is created when the panel sections of the airflow guidance structure are installed and adjoined.

[0049] The right component 764 also includes a channel portion 784 that is to be parallel to the ceiling the refrigerated transport container when the panel section 700 is installed, and at a distance beneath the ceiling that depends on the angle and width of the angled portion 782. The middle component 766 is installed between left and right channel portions (e.g., the channel portion 784 of the right component 764, and the corresponding channel portion of the left component 762). The middle component 766 includes a single rectangular center hole 776, for example, although other configurations are possible (e.g., no holes, multiple holes, holes of different shapes and sizes, etc.)

[0050] Various mechanisms and techniques can be used to install a middle portion between corresponding left and right portions of a panel section of an airflow guidance structure. In the present example, the channel portion 784 of the right component 764 (and the corresponding channel portion of the left component 762) can each include an upper and lower channel portion, with a receiving groove between the upper and lower channel portions. A right edge of the middle component 766 can be slid into a receiving groove of the channel portion 784 of the right component 764, and a left edge of the middle component 766 can be slid into a receiving groove of the corresponding channel portion of the left component 762. In some implementations, the upper and lower channel portions can be formed such that a friction fit is created when the middle component 766 is slid into the receiving groove. In some implementations, a chemical adhesive can be applied to the contacting surfaces and edges of the middle component 766 during installation. In some implementations, one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts, Velcro pads, or other suitable fasteners) can be used to affix the middle component 766 between the left component 762 and the right component 764.

[0051] Upon installation, an air gap is formed between the surface of the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and the middle components of the adjoined panel sections (e.g., panel section 700) of the airflow guidance structure (e.g., a gap of 4 to 8 inches, or another suitable height). Cooled air is blown into a front panel section (e.g., panel section 600, panel section 650, etc.) of the airflow guidance structure, and a plenum is formed along the length of the ceiling of the container. The cooled air from the plenum can pass down from holes in the airflow guidance structure (e.g., through the optional holes of the front panel section, through the center holes of the middle components, and through side holes of the left and right components of the other panel sections) to goods that are being stored in the refrigerated transport container.

[0052] FIG. 8 depicts example panel section components and an example panel section assembly of an airflow guidance structure. As shown in view 800 of the panel section assembly (e.g., an exploded isometric view from the perspective of the floor of a refrigerated transport container), the panel section assembly includes a left component 812 (e.g., similar to left component 762, shown in FIG. 7), a middle component 816 (e.g., similar to the middle component 766, also shown in FIG. 7), and a right component 814 (e.g., similar to the right component 764, also shown in FIG. 7). The components 812, 816, and 814, for example, can be removably affixed to interior ceiling 810 of the refrigerated transport contain and/or to each other, through the use of touch fastening mechanisms (e.g., adhesive pads, Velcro pads, or other sorts of touch fastening mechanisms that allows components to be joined by pressing the components together, and removed by pulling the components apart), to form a panel section of the airflow guidance structure.

[0053] In the present example, a left fastening mechanism surface 822 is applied to the interior ceiling 810 at a ceiling location at which the left component 812 is to be installed. The left component 812, for example, includes a corresponding fastening mechanism on an upper surface (not shown) of its mounting portion, and the left component is affixed to the ceiling by pressing its fastening mechanism to the corresponding left fastening mechanism surface 822 on the ceiling 810. Similarly, a right fastening mechanism surface 824 is applied to the interior ceiling 810 at a ceiling location at which the right component 814 is to be installed. The right component 814, for example, includes a corresponding fastening mechanism on an upper surface (not shown) of its mounting portion, and the right component is affixed to the ceiling by pressing its fastening mechanism to the corresponding right fastening mechanism surface 824 on the ceiling 810. To complete the installation of the panel section assembly, for example, the middle component 816 (to which fastening mechanisms have been applied on its upper surface) is pressed against a left channel portion fastening mechanism surface 832 of the left component 812 and against a right channel portion fastening mechanism surface 834 of the right component 814. Thus, the panel section assembly can be quickly completed (e.g., as shown in view 850) without the use of installation tools.

[0054] FIG. 9 depicts an example panel section component. Referring to the depiction of example left panel section component 900 (e.g., functionally similar to each of the left components 562 (shown in FIG. 5), the left component 762 (shown in FIG. 7), and the left component 812 (shown in FIG. 8)), the component 900 includes a mounting portion 910, a positive attachment joint 920, a negative attachment joint 922, a gasket edge 930, a center hole 940, and a side hole 942. As described elsewhere in this document, the left panel section component 900 can be a standard component that is configured to be joined with a standard middle section component, which is in turn configured to be joined with a standard right panel section component (with an opposite geometry from the left panel section component). An assembled panel section including the standard left, middle, and right components can be joined with a preceding assembled panel section and a succeeding assembled panel section during installation to form a completed airflow guidance structure in a refrigerated transport container. During installation of the airflow guidance structure, for example, a standard left component can be affixed at the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and can be joined with a preceding standard left component (or a front panel). Similarly, a standard right component can be affixed at the ceiling of the refrigerated transport container and can be joined with a preceding standard right component (or the front panel). After the standard left and right components have been installed, for example, a suitable standard middle component (e.g., with larger middle components being installed toward the front of the container and with smaller middle components being installed toward the back of the container), can be joined with each of the left and right components, to form a panel section of the airflow guidance structure. The assembly/installation process can be repeated for each succeeding panel section along the length of the refrigerated transport until the airflow guidance structure is completed.

[0055] In the present example, the mounting portion 910 of the panel section component 900 is configured to be parallel to the ceiling of a refrigerated transport container when the component 900 is installed. As described elsewhere in this document, the mounting portion 910 can be affixed to a mounting structure (e.g., a mounting rail, pad, or another sort of mounting structure) that is in turn attached to the ceiling, or it can be affixed directly to the ceiling. Attachment of the mounting portion 910 to the mounting structure (or directly to the ceiling) can be accomplished through various mechanical mechanisms, including, but not limited to, mounting bolts, Velcro pads, etc., and/or chemical adhesives (e.g., tape, glue, etc.). In some implementations, a mounting portion of a panel section component can include multiple different possible attachment mechanisms. For example, the mounting portion 910 can be a flat surface that is configured to accept a Velcro pad and/or a chemical adhesive, and the mounting portion 910 can also include holes that are configured to accept mounting hardware (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.). By including multiple different attachment mechanisms, for example, a same component can be installed in a variety of different refrigerated transport containers.

[0056] In the present example, the positive attachment joint 920 projects from the panel section component 900 and is configured to be inserted into a corresponding negative attachment joint of a component/panel that precedes the component 900 during an installation process. After the panel section component 900 has been installed as a component of the airflow guidance structure, for example, the negative attachment joint 922 can receive a corresponding positive attachment joint of a component that succeeds the component 900 along the length of an airflow guidance structure. The positive attachment joint 920, for example, can be a projection (e.g., having a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, or another suitable shape) from the component 900, which extends approximately a half inch to two inches from the leading edge of the component (e.g., relative to the front end of an airflow guidance structure that includes the component), and is approximately one to four inches wide. The negative attachment joint 922, for example, can be an indentation (e.g., having a shape and size that corresponds to that of the positive attachment joint) in the trailing edge of the component. The positive and negative attachment joints can serve as guides during the installation of the panels and panel components, for example, and can provide stability to the airflow guidance structure when assembled.

[0057] In the present example, the gasket edge 930 is included on the trailing edge of the panel section component 900 (e.g., relative to the front end of an airflow guidance structure that includes the component), and provides a gasket covering of the entire trailing edge except for the attachment joint (e.g., negative attachment joint 922). In other examples, a gasket edge can instead be included on the leading edge of a panel section component, or can instead be included on both the leading edge and the trailing edge of the panel section component. Gasket edges, for example, can also be included on leading and/or trailing edges of a single-piece panel section (e.g., the front panel section 560a, or any of the panel sections 510a-n, shown in FIG. 5). The gasket edge can be covered by a strip of compressible, elastic material (e.g., rubber, foam rubber, vinyl, silicone, etc.). During installation, for example, the gasket edge 930 can align with an edge of an adjacent panel section component (or panel section), and the gasket edge 930 can be compressed (e.g., through the engagement of attachment hardware (e.g., shown in FIG. 10)), such that an airtight seal is formed between the adjacent panel sections/components. The airtight seal, for example, can ensure that cooled air passes only through the designated holes of an airflow guidance structure, thus resulting in even airflow and consistent cooling in a refrigerated transport container.

[0058] In the present example, the center hole 940 is included the middle of a channel portion of the panel section component 900, and the side hole 942 in included in the middle of an angled portion of the component 900. The center hole 940, for example, can be a notch (e.g., rectangular, semi-circular, or another suitable shape) in a side of the panel section component 900 that faces the middle of an assembled airflow guidance structure and can be configured to align with a center hole of one or more corresponding panel section components (e.g., a right panel section component and a middle panel section component, not shown here). The side hole 942, for example, can be a cutout hole (e.g., rectangular, circular, or another suitable shape). Each of the holes 940, 942, for example, can be appropriately sized (e.g., three inches, six inches, twelve inches, etc.), depending on the configuration of the airflow guidance structure and the cooling requirements of the refrigerated transport container.

[0059] In some implementations, the air holes of panel sections or panel section components can include chamfered or rounded edges. For example, each of the holes 940, 942 can include angled edges that are configured to face airflow along a plenum generated by an assembled airflow guidance structure (e.g., see FIG. 3), and to facilitate the direction of cooled air from the plenum to a space that is outside of the airflow guidance structure and that contains goods. In some implementations, additional structures (not shown) can be included in a panel section or a panel section component to direct air from an interior of an assembled airflow guidance structure to an exterior of the structure. For example, the panel section component 900 can include a channel or tube that directs air from an exit of the hole 942 to an exit location near an edge of the component 900. Such an additional structure can serve to direct cooled air nearer to the edge of a refrigerated transport container in which the airflow guidance structure is installed.

[0060] FIG. 10 depicts views 1000, 1050 of an assembly of an example airflow guidance structure. View 1000 of the example airflow guidance structure is an offset view from underneath the structure, whereas view 1050 of the example airflow guidance structure is an overhead view of the structure. As described in other examples in this document, the example airflow guidance structure depicted in views 1000, 1050, includes a series of panel sections, with at least some of the panel sections including multiple standard components (e.g., a standard right component, a standard middle component, and a standard left component), with each standard component being of a same size, shape, and configuration of a similar standard component.

[0061] During installation and assembly of the airflow guidance structure, front panel section 1010 can be positioned at the front interior of a refrigerated transport container (e.g., at a fan outlet of a refrigeration unit) and can be mounted by a worker at the ceiling of the container using any of the techniques described in this document. After installing the front panel section 1010, for example, the worker can install a side component (e.g., a right side component or a left side component) of a panel section that is to succeed the front panel section 1010. In the present example, the worker can manipulate right panel section component 1020 using handles 1022a and 1022b, which are positioned on an exterior surface of the component 1020 (e.g., on an angled portion of the component). The handles 1022a-b, for example, can facilitate installation of the component 1020 of the airflow guidance structure. Installation of the right panel section component 1020, for example, can include aligning a positive joint 1024 of the component 1020 with a corresponding negative joint of the front panel section 1010, while mounting the component at the ceiling of the container using any of the techniques described in this document.

[0062] In some implementations, mounting a panel section component can include the use of attachment hardware that is affixed to the panel section component. Mounting the panel section component 1020, for example, can include engaging attachment hardware 1026a (e.g., a clasp, tie, band, or another suitable sort of attachment hardware) that is affixed to an exterior surface of the component 1026 (e.g., on an angled portion of the component, near a leading edge) to corresponding attachment hardware 1016 of the preceding front panel section 1010. The corresponding attachment hardware 1016, for example, can be affixed on an angled portion of the front panel section 1010, near a trailing edge. Similarly, the right panel section component 1020 can include attachment hardware 1026b near its trailing edge, for use in engaging with corresponding attachment hardware of a succeeding right panel section component. Engaging the attachment hardware 1026a and 1016, for example, can compress a gasket edge of the right panel section component 1020 (e.g., similar to gasket edge 930, shown in FIG. 9), which can create an airtight seal between the component 1020 and the front panel section 1010. After installing the right panel section component 1020, for example, a corresponding left panel section component 1040 can be installed in the airflow guidance structure following a similar process.

[0063] In general, after right and left panel section components of a panel section have been installed, a middle panel section component can be installed between the right and left panel section components to complete the installation of the panel section. In the present example, middle panel section component 1030 can be installed between the right panel section component 1020 and the left panel section component 1040 (e.g., using any of the techniques described in this document). During installation, for example, a leading edge of the middle panel section component 1030 can be aligned with the leading edges of the right and left panel section components 1020, 1040, and then the middle panel section component 1030 can be fastened into place. In some configurations, panel section components can include multiple different fastening mechanisms. For example, any of the panel section components 1020, 1030, 1040 can be initially fastened into place using a Velro or chemical fastener (e.g., tape, glue, etc.), and can later be secured using a mechanical fastener (e.g., a bolt or another mechanical device). In the present example, the middle panel section component 1030 can include a mechanical fastener receiving hole 1032 that is configured to align with a corresponding mechanical fastener receiving hole 1042 (shown in view 1050) of the left panel section component 1040. A mechanical fastener can be directed through both holes 1032, 1042, for example, and can be used to mechanically fasten the middle panel section component 1030 to the left panel section component 1040. Providing multiple different fastening options, for example, can facilitate installation and possible repair of the airflow guidance structure.

[0064] In the present example, after a panel section has been assembled and installed (e.g., the panel section including panel section components 1020, 1030, and 140), similar techniques can be used to assemble and install a subsequent panel section. In the present example, a negative joint 1044 of the left panel section component 1040 can receive a corresponding positive joint of a succeeding left panel section component, and the succeeding left panel section component can be installed and fastened using various attachment mechanisms and the attachment hardware of each of the panels. The corresponding right and middle panel section components can be installed, for example, to complete the subsequent panel section. The process can similarly continue along the length of the refrigerated transport container, for example, until the installation of the airflow guidance structure is complete.

[0065] FIG. 11 depicts example airflow velocities in a refrigerated transport container. View 1100 is a front sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., at midway point in the container), in which airflow guidance structure 200 (shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. View 1150 is a front sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., at a same midway point in the container), in which airflow guidance structure 250 (also shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. As shown in view 1100, for example, airflow guidance structure 200 forms twin plenums along the top of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., between the interior ceiling of the container and the structure 200). An air velocity at the sectional view 1100 is highest at each side of twin plenums, with a relatively lower air velocity from the holes of the structure 200 to the outside of the structure 200 in the interior of the container, due to relatively low air pressure at the depicted section of the plenums. As shown in view 1150, for example, airflow guidance structure 250 forms a single plenum along the top of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., between the ceiling of the container and the structure 250). An air velocity at the sectional view 1150 is highest along the single plenum, however air velocity is maintained from the holes of the structure 250 to the outside of the structure 250 in the interior of the container (e.g., relative to the air exiting the holes of the structure 200 at view 1100), due to a relatively higher air pressure at the depicted section of the single plenum. Also, airflow around the pallet locations at the section of the container depicted in sectional view 1150 is generally higher than the corresponding section of the container depicted in sectional view 1100, due in part to the higher velocity air exiting the holes of the airflow guidance structure 250.

[0066] FIG. 12 depicts example airflow velocities in a refrigerated transport container. View 1200 is a side sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a plenum of an airflow guidance structure), in which airflow guidance structure 200 (shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. View 1250 is a side sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a plenum of an airflow guidance structure), in which airflow guidance structure 250 (also shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. As shown in view 1200, for example, airflow along the plenum of the airflow guidance structure 200 moves from the front of the container to the back, however the velocity of the airflow significantly decreases toward the back. In contrast, and as shown in view 1250, for example, airflow along the plenum of the airflow guidance structure 250 also moves from the front of the container to the back, but is maintained at a high velocity along the entire length of the plenum. Also, as shown in view 1200, airflow beneath the structure 200 (e.g., in an airspace between the bottom of the structure and the top of the goods) generally moves at a low velocity from the back of the container toward the front, whereas as shown in view 1250, airflow beneath the structure 250 (e.g., in an airspace between the bottom of the structure and the top of the goods) generally continues moving from the front of the container toward the back, and at a relatively higher velocity as compared to the airflow in view 1200.

[0067] FIG. 13 depicts example airflow velocities in a refrigerated transport container. View 1300 is a side sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., at a side edge of the container), in which airflow guidance structure 200 (shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. View 1350 is a side sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., at a side edge of the container), in which airflow guidance structure 250 (also shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. As shown in view 1300 (and similar to view 1200, as the airflow guidance structure 200 extends across the width of the container), for example, airflow along the plenum of the airflow guidance structure 200 moves from the front of the container to the back, however the velocity of the airflow significantly decreases toward the back. In contrast, and as shown in view 1350, for example, airflow along the plenum of the airflow guidance structure 250 does not occur at the sides of the container (except for at the front of the structure 250, where it extends the width of the container and where it receives air blown from a fan outlet of a refrigeration unit). As shown in the contrasting views 1300 and 1350, for example, airflow along the sides of the container generally is generally more even and has a higher velocity in view 1350 (e.g., due to installation of the airflow guidance structure 250) relative to the view 1300 (e.g., with airflow guidance structure 200 having been installed).

[0068] FIG. 14 depicts example temperature maps of a refrigerated transport container. View 1400 is a top sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a plenum of an airflow guidance structure), in which airflow guidance structure 200 (shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. View 1450 is a top sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a plenum of an airflow guidance structure), in which airflow guidance structure 250 (also shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. As shown in view 1400, for example, air temperature in the plenum formed by airflow guidance structure 200 (e.g., which extends the width of the container and includes twin plenums) increases significantly as air moves from the front to the back of the structure). As shown in view 1450, for example, air temperature formed by the single plenum in the airflow guidance structure 250 (e.g., which extends the width of the container at the front of the container, and gradually tapers to a partial width of the container (e.g., 65% of the width, 50% of the width, 35% of the width, or another suitable partial width)) remains relatively constant as air moves from the front to the back of the structure.

[0069] FIG. 15 depicts example temperature maps of a refrigerated transport container. View 1500 is a top sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a top of palletized goods being stored in the container), in which airflow guidance structure 200 (shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. View 1550 is a top sectional view of the refrigerated transport container (e.g., along a top of palletized goods being stored in the container), in which airflow guidance structure 250 (also shown in FIG. 2) has been installed. As shown in the present example, the air temperature along the top of the palletized goods is generally lower in view 1550 (e.g., due to the installation of airflow guidance structure 250), relative to the air temperature along the top of the palletized goods in view 1500 (e.g., due to the installation of airflow guidance structure 200).

[0070] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosed technology or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments of particular disclosed technologies. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment in part or in whole. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described herein as acting in certain combinations and/or initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination. Similarly, while operations may be described in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order or in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.