Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and system for storing perishable products in a vacuum container. An atmosphere control system is coupled to the vacuum container for measuring and maintaining controlled atmospheric conditions within the vacuum container. The atmosphere control system includes a plurality of monitors configured to monitor atmospheric conditions within the vacuum container. The atmosphere control system further includes a vacuum pump configured to reduce total absolute pressure in the vacuum chamber to below a total gas pressure limit, an ozone generator configured to generate gaseous ozone, and an inlet valve coupled to the ozone generator and configured to admit an ozone-containing gas into the vacuum container.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and system to measure and control respiration of a perishable commodity in a vacuum chamber, including for purposes of extending a shelf life of a perishable commodity therein, including.

Abstract: A vacuum container for containing perishable items in controlled, reduced pressure, atmospheric conditions is provided. The vacuum container includes a section of generally cylindrical pipe open at both ends and formed of a plastic material. A first end cap is detachably secured to one end of the pipe to form a vacuum resistant seal between the first end cap and the pipe. A second end cap detachably secured to the other end of the pipe to form a vacuum resistant seal between the second end cap and the other end of the pipe. Preferably, the pipe and end caps are all formed of a plastic material capable of withstanding the pressures created when a high vacuum is formed in the chamber.

Abstract: A system and method for storing perishable items under controlled atmospheric conditions is provided. Total atmospheric pressure within a vacuum chamber containing the perishable items is reduced to below a predetermined total pressure limit. Oxygen partial pressure within the chamber is monitored. When the Oxygen partial pressure falls below a predetermined lower Oxygen partial pressure limit, an Oxygen-containing gas is admitted to the vacuum chamber to raise the Oxygen partial pressure above the lower Oxygen partial pressure limit. Total atmospheric pressure within the chamber is also monitored. When the total atmospheric pressure reaches or exceed the predetermined total pressure limit, total pressure within the vacuum chamber is once again reduced below the predetermined total pressure limit.

Abstract: A system and method for transporting and storing post-harvest fruits, vegetables and other perishable commodities under controlled atmospheric conditions is provided. One or more transportable vacuum containers are packed with the perishable commodity. Thereafter, the controlled atmospheric condition is created within the container. The atmospheric condition is maintained while the container is transported from one location to another. Part of the controlled atmospheric condition includes the formation of a vacuum within the container. Internal structure is provided within the container to resist collapse of the container when the vacuum is formed therein. A plurality of containers can be provided. A central control, coupled to each of the containers can be provided to maintain the desired atmospheric condition within each of the containers.