Abstract: Systems and methods for active vaporization of moisture in a Thermoelectric Module (TEM) or subsystem are provided. In some embodiments, a method of method of operating a TEM includes: determining to initiate a drying cycle for the TEM; and activating the drying cycle for the TEM. In this way, moisture can be removed from the TEM. This can increase the efficiency and/or longevity of the TEM. This can lead to decreased maintenance times and cost savings.

Abstract: Systems and methods for automatic defrosting of an actively cooled tote are provided. In some embodiments, a method of operating an actively cooled container includes: determining to initiate a defrost cycle for the actively cooled container; deactivating a cooling system of the actively cooled container; activating a defrost heater of the actively cooled container; determining to deactivate the defrost heater of the actively cooled container; setting the defrost heater to maintain a temperature of a thermal accept system at a threshold; waiting a set duration of time to allow for melted frost to drip into a collection tray; and activating the cooling system of the actively cooled container.

Abstract: Systems and methods of a tote power dock system are provided. In some embodiments, a method of operating a power dock system includes: refraining from providing power to one or more electrical contacts of the power dock system when no actively cooled tote is present on the power dock system; determining that an actively cooled tote is present on the power dock system; and in response to determining that an actively cooled tote is present on the power dock system, providing power to the one or more electrical contacts of the power dock system. In some embodiments, this provides increased safety for the electrical connections.

Abstract: Systems and methods for energy management and conservation while ensuring cold-chain compliance are provided. In some embodiments, a method of operating an Active Cooling System (ACS) includes: determining the operating needs of a plurality of Actively Cooled Totes (ACTs); and adjusting an operation of one or more of the plurality of ACTs based on a physical location of the one or more of the plurality of ACTs in the ACS. In this way, this can prevent mass turn-on of a cluster of ACTs physically close together, generating large columns of hot exhaust air. This can also enable energy savings and prioritization of energy usage.

Abstract: Systems and methods for prevention of exhaust air re-entrainment in automated storage facility with actively cooled totes are provided. In some embodiments, an actively cooled container includes: an active cooling subsystem; and a heat exhaust outlet to remove heat from the active cooling subsystem; wherein the heat exhaust outlet is angled upward to more effectively remove the heat from the ambient environment of the actively cooled container. In some embodiments, a method of managing a storage area of actively cooled totes includes: determining a plurality of actively cooled totes that require active cooling; and determining an arrangement of the plurality of actively cooled totes in the storage area. The arrangement reduces a column of hot exhaust air formed in the storage area. In this way, the storage of actively cooled totes is made more reliable and more efficient.

Abstract: An electrical distribution system for actively cooled totes is provided. In some embodiments, a transportation cart for providing power to one or more cooled totes, includes: wheels for allowing the transportation cart for moving; one or more tote placement locations; a battery for storing power; and a power subsystem for providing power to at least one of the one or more tote placement locations. This provides additional cold chain compliance while making picking easier and less hurried.

Abstract: A tote liner basket used in actively cooled totes is provided. In some embodiments, a tote liner used in actively cooled totes includes: a bottom of the tote liner; two or more sides of the tote liner; and two or more openings for increased airflow. In this way, the use of the tote is made easier while maintaining or improving the airflow in the tote.

Abstract: Systems and methods for tote lid hinges are provided. In some embodiments, a tote includes: an interior of the tote; a lid to cover the interior of the tote; and a hinge mechanism configured to be opened in more than one direction. Different applications and use cases of a tote require differences in the opening direction of the tote lid. A flexible hinge mechanism allows the lid to be opened/closed for these various applications using the same hinge & lid design, rather than changing the lid type by application.

Abstract: Systems and methods for thermal management are provided. In some embodiments, a vehicle for transporting one or more actively cooled totes, the vehicle includes: a central heat reject subsystem operable to reject heat from the one or more actively cooled totes; and an attachment mechanism for moving heat from the one or more actively cooled totes to the central heat reject subsystem.

Abstract: A linear LED lighting system, assembly and/or fixture distributes luminance efficiently in certain applications, such as for ceiling lighting used in certain retail environments. According to example embodiments of the invention, a linear LED lighting system includes at least two tilted, parabolic reflecting surfaces and a linear array of LED devices, wherein at least some of the LED devices are substantially disposed at a focus line of at least one of the tilted, parabolic reflecting surfaces. A diffuser or diffusive lens can be disposed adjacent to the parabolic reflecting surfaces where light exits the system to provide color mixing and/or eliminate potential hot spots. The tilt of the reflecting surfaces can be changed to adjust the illumination pattern. A lighting system according to example embodiments of the invention can be designed for retrofit installation or as a complete fixture.