Demonstration of a Practical Low-Energy-Consumption Dehumidification Device for Shipping Containers

The thrust of this proposal is to use Mainstream’s proposed concept for a VC-QuaDD dehumidifier to demonstrate an innovative low-power compact dehumidification design that can be powered from alternative energy power sources including solar, wind, and even internal battery power, as well as ship-board or vehicle power. The system can also obtain power from energy scavenging devices. This proposal contains detailed calculations to support the design chosen, as well as a preliminary design of the complete first-generation prototype unit that will be experimentally demonstrated in Phase I. The proposed configuration can be used on existing 20' ISO containers, as well as smaller TriCon and QuadCon containers. This Phase I effort will prove the technical feasibility of the approach using a full-scale first-prototype configuration. Reliability, durability, and low cost will be demonstrated, as well as compatibility with existing ISO containers. The Phase I Option includes re-design (as needed), fabrication of a second-generation prototype, performance testing on a 20' ISO container, and extensive life testing (to demonstrate the ruggedness and reliability) of this compact patent-pending design. The proposal contains a commercialization plan for the shipping, marine, and industrial markets. This product fits well into Mainstream’s evolving commercial products for the shipping industry.