A Modular Semi-Rigid Thermal-Management Bag for Last-Mile Transportation of Temperature-Sensitive Medical Products
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ThermaVault is a modular semi-rigid thermal-management bag proposed for the last-mile transportation of temperature-sensitive medical products. The project focuses on a practical balance between thermal protection, portability, structural support and flexible internal storage. The proposed bag uses a protective outer layer, semi-rigid HDPE/PP panels, reflective foil, polyurethane (PU) foam, removable phase change material (PCM) sleeves and a removable modular tray. Product-specific inserts are proposed for insulin pens, pharmaceutical vials and blood/sample tubes. Published studies show that insulation, PCM arrangement, container geometry and ambient temperature strongly affect passive cold-storage performance. The present work therefore investigates these factors within a compact semi-rigid bag rather than claiming the individual technologies as new. A target capacity of 8–10 L is considered, with a preliminary internal chamber of 330 × 200 × 140 mm (9.24 L) and approximately 25 mm PU insulation. CAD modelling, heat-transfer calculations and temperature-retention testing will be used to evaluate the design. Temperature monitoring is included for testing, while active cooling and IoT functions are considered future extensions
Institution: Jaihind College of Engineering
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7213655387