Compact Lightweight Containers for Hot Food Delivery

TIAX LLC proposes to develop a compact, lightweight container for hot food delivery. THe goals for light weight, with maximum deployed volume of 2200 cubic inches and maximum stored volume of 1100 cubic inches will be met by an innovative combination ofadvanced thermal insulation, materials, and nestable geometries. In the proposed Phase I program, we have converged on a basic design approach of a container having identical top and bottom halves. Dimensions ahve been optimized around efficient handlingof polymeric tray packs, adjusted to accommodate a close in size steam table insert pan to handle cook-prepared foods. In Pahse II we will make final choices of the insert pan/cover materials and geometry and of the insulation system, essentially acost-volume trade-off. Then we will prototype, validation test, field test and tool for production.The proposed project will benefit the military and civilian sectors by providing a high level of insulated container performance and volume efficiency.Potential new products for the military include hot food containers (per this project), large refrigerated/frozen food transport containers and improved blood shipment containers. Potential civilian applications include improved-more compact, betterinsulated-food transport containers for the catering industry and for restaurants with food delivery. These designs will also be the basis for high performance consumer coolers with extended cold storage time.