Abstract: In one aspect, systems for storing and/or transporting a payload are described herein. In some embodiments, systems have a portable storage vessel having an internal cavity, the internal cavity having: a central zone for receiving the payload; a first cooling zone disposed radially outward from the central recess, with a first phase change material disposed in the first cooling zone; a second cooling zone disposed radially outward from the first cooling zone, with a second phase change material disposed in the second cooling zone, wherein the first phase change material has a first phase transition temperature; wherein the second phase change material has a second phase transition temperature; and wherein the second phase transition temperature is between 10° C. and 15° C. higher than the first phase transition temperature; and wherein each of the first phase transition temperature and the second phase transition temperature are below 0° C.

Abstract: Various aspects and embodiments of a temperature control cart (100) are disclosed. The temperature control cart (100) comprises a top portion (116) with one or more wells (202), wherein the one or more wells (202) is operable to receive one or more pans (102). The wells (202) are configured to hold pans (102), wherein the pans (102) often contain a payload, such as food or medicine, that requires temperature control. Further, the top portion (116) is disposed in a tank (108) that contains phase change material (PCM). In another aspect, a method for controlling temperature of a payload is disclosed. A temperature control cart (100) is further provided with one or more heat exchangers. Wherein the one or more heat exchangers circulate a heat exchange fluid, thereby heating or cooling the PCM disposed in the tank (108) of the temperature control cart (100) to above or below a transition temperature of the PCM.