Abstract: An active thermal insulation system is disclosed. The system utilizes a cool air source or ambient air below a threshold temperature in conjunction with a phase change material and/or conventional insulation. In a controlled manner, the cooled air or ambient air facilitates the transition of the phase change material from a substantially liquid state to a substantially solid state allowing the solid phase change material to absorb heat. Cooled air or ambient air may be directed to the phase change material via a gap or plenum capable of introducing the cooled air or ambient air adjacent to the phase change material. A fan, blower or air intake device may be used to direct ambient air to the gap or plenum.

Abstract: A resistance/capacitance (RC) model thermal filtering system is disclosed. The resistance is provided by traditional insulation and the capacitance is provided by a phase change material (PCM). The RC model comprises the placement of a layer of PCM proximate an outer surface of a wall of an interior of a structure and the placement of a layer of traditional insulation adjacent the PCM. Accordingly, the PCM is placed between the wall and insulation. In this arrangement, heat energy absorbed by the PCM during peak hours of the day is routinely released to the interior (path of least resistance) of the structure during non-peak cooler times of the day. Packaging containing a matrix of pockets for containing a PCM compound facilitates a simple method of containing and placing the PCM layer. In one version, a containment medium is preferably perlite bound within a matrix with a sealing material, although other media can be employed for containing the phase change materials, such as vermiculite.