The Operation Analysis of the Innovative MainBox Food Storage Device

: The development and construction of a prototype device (food parcel locker), consisting of small cooling and freezing chambers (boxes) ensuring temperature conditions (+5 C or − 18 ◦ C), enabling food storage were carried out. The innovative solutions have been introduced in the MainBox device: the appropriate construction of the device (materials, cooling installation), properly functioning systems (control of chillers, security, temperature monitoring), and propane as refrigerant (high energy efﬁciency, low global warming potential). The risk of explosion has been eliminated by closing of the cooling installation and reducing of propane amount. The refrigeration unit has been adapted to work in external conditions by installing additional elements (pressure switches for compressor protection and for condensing pressure control). In real conditions, the operation of the innovative MainBox food storage device allowing the receipt of food products without having to wait for a supplier was veriﬁed. The temperature distribution in all chambers of the cooling and freezing module was investigated using a thermal imaging camera and a temperature monitoring system. The correct operation of MainBox devices was veriﬁed during their loading with food products that require speciﬁc temperature conditions during storage.


Introduction
Ensuring food safety and quality is a particular challenge in the face of population growth [1,2]. The procedures for maintaining the stable conditions under which chilled or frozen food products must be stored are referred to as cold chain [3,4]. On the other hand, reducing food waste, especially in households, is possible through rational purchasing of products [5]. Currently, new food distribution channels are sought that would facilitate its delivery in appropriate storage conditions (temperature) and at a convenient time [6]. The identification of trends in sustainable delivery on e-commerce market in cities from the perspective of various stakeholders is a complex issue [7]. E-grocery is developing into a frequent and prominent form of online shopping. Home delivery of food and groceries is associated with fewer trips to physical grocery stores and reduced car use on these trips [8]. There is a need for e-retailers and other companies participating in the e-commerce supply chain to develop a variety of strategies [9]. The consumer behavioral research on computer human interactions and implications for transport policy confirmed that the effects of convenience, privacy security, and reliability on customers' decisions are fully depended on value and transaction costs, which were verified by theoretical research on self-service in technologies of sale [10]. Food storage equipment enables convenient distribution of products ordered online. However, a prerequisite is the maintenance of the appropriate temperature for individual assortments. In the case of chilled and frozen products, deviation from the required temperature in any of the links in the cold chain may result in lower quality or product spoilage and pose a health risk [11].
The e-commerce growth has increased the complexity of logistics operations in urban environments, i.e., delivery drones and ground autonomous delivery devices [12] and mobile warehouses [13] are under consideration. Ensuring proper cooling conditions requires designing cooling devices with optimal parameters, which will also be environmentally friendly [14,15]. When constructing them, it is necessary to take into account national and international legal acts that impose actions aimed at limiting environmental threats, including the ozone hole [16] and the greenhouse effect [17]. The use of synthetic refrigerants (f-gases) is limited and, therefore, the natural refrigerant use is dedicated to the newly designed devices.
Research work was carried out which enabled the construction of an innovative Main-Box device, ensuring temperature conditions (+5 • C or −18 • C). This product is intended to store food under certain temperature conditions and enable the collection of ordered food products by customers without having to wait for the supplier. The device structure has been developed, taking into account the appropriate materials, type of sealing, chamber size, construction of the chamber door, necessary elements of the cooling and condensate drainage system, as well as automated control of temperature. The natural refrigerant propane is used in the cooling system [18]. Based on its properties, innovative solutions have been designed for, among others, cooling installation, temperature monitoring and regulation, security system, and ventilation of food storage chambers. There is an increased interest in the use of hydrocarbons in refrigeration, e.g., propane (R600a) in mixtures [19][20][21], isobutane (R290) in domestic refrigeration [22], and mixed R290/R600a in the compressors [23].
In general, supply chains and logistics have been disrupted due to the pandemic situation [13]. The developed device is a response to the current society need. It is the right solution for providing food to consumers in the difficult reality of the sanitary regime, caused by the epidemiological threat of COVID-19 (coronavirus) [24]. Currently, the development potential of this form of food trade has increased enormously, and the crucial point is ensuring optimal storage conditions. On the other hand, it is the dissemination of pro-environmental solutions related to the natural refrigerant use and action aimed at climate protection by reducing the direct emission of greenhouse gases which translates into a minimalization of the carbon footprint (CF) of this device [25,26].
The article describes the experimental work performed to verify the correct operation of the cooling and freezing prototypes of devices (MainBox), which are the subject of the project. The purpose of this study was to investigate the operation of the innovative MainBox device, in real conditions, for food storage in optimal temperature.

Test Stand
The technological challenge was to develop and design prototype external bodies for refrigeration and freezing modules. The role of the body was to provide protection of the refrigeration system elements from the influence of external factors, as well as from their destruction. The work has been carried out in the following steps: selection of an insulator, sealant, and lining material for the inside of the box; the construction of the cabinet bodies, taking into account individual components (their location); execution of the bodies (filled with a specific insulator) with the required physical properties. The development of the systems for cooling and freezing modules, as well as the execution and verification of their operation took place in the following stages: first, the cooling systems (including condensate drainage) with automation and control and the electrical installations for the cooling and freezing modules were designed and executed; next, their operation was verified in model conditions and in real environmental conditions. Prototypes of the bodies of modules (cooling and freezing) of the MainBox device were built of stainless steel with space inside for cooling and other necessary installations, including measuring instrumentation and operating the customer's access system to a given box (Figure 1). Cooling and electrical installations with measuring and control instrumentation were located in the upper part of MainBox body. The module consisted of 5 chambers (boxes) for food storage. Each box was opened at the front with a separate door. The air inlet and outlet places on the shelves were planned to be located-air blades allowing for regulation of the air inlet in the side wall. Implementation of the air controllers with insulating material (styrodur). -Smart wire to the door to prevent freezing of the door seal. A temperature control system, security systems, and automation and cooling systems control have been designed and manufactured. Design innovations in the MainBox construction have been carried out in the following steps.
1. The MainBox used compact air cooling devices (monoblock) with the necessary certification provided by the manufacturer. A refrigeration unit designed for indoor refrigeration furniture was used to work in outdoor conditions, which forced the use of additional elements in the refrigeration unit itself, which were not normally installed: -High and low pressure compressor protection pressure switches. A temperature control system, security systems, and automation and cooling systems control have been designed and manufactured. Design innovations in the MainBox construction have been carried out in the following steps.

1.
The MainBox used compact air cooling devices (monoblock) with the necessary certification provided by the manufacturer. A refrigeration unit designed for indoor refrigeration furniture was used to work in outdoor conditions, which forced the use of additional elements in the refrigeration unit itself, which were not normally installed: -High and low pressure compressor protection pressure switches. -High pressure switch to control the condensing pressure by switching the condenser fan on and off (necessary at low outdoor temperature).

2.
The temperature in cooling chambers was ensured by blowing cold air which, after being heated in the chambers, went back through the ventilation duct to the cooling device located above the chambers and was cooled in the evaporator. The heat removed from the air was disposed of in a condenser cooled by external air.

3.
Due to the fact that, in the chambers, a temperature of +5 • C had to be ensured and the whole system will operate at outdoor temperatures from −20 • C to +35 • C, an additional electric heater was used: -An additional electric heater on the evaporator with a power of 400 W, which, in combination with the standard defrosting heater with a power of 230 W, ensured heating of the chambers at negative outside temperatures. Both heaters were controlled by a thermostat located in the electrical box based on the temperature reading of the air returning to the refrigeration unit. -Temperature control in individual boxes was correlated with the return air temperature to the chiller, because the air returned to the chiller through a common return duct. This was averaged over all boxes. Based on this temperature reading, the module's local controller turned the chiller on and off. Temperature sensors have been installed at all air outlets from the boxes to prevent a temperature rise in individual boxes. If the return air temperature from any box exceeded the upper setpoint, then the master controller forced the cooling of the entire module regardless of the temperature reading in the common return duct. Once the temperature was reduced to the setpoint, the master controller removed the forced chiller operation signal and the unit returned to local controller operation based on the return air temperature. -Adequate circulation of cooled air was ensured by the appropriate amount of cooled air flowing into individual boxes to obtain the same temperature in each of the return air streams with an accuracy of ±1 • C. - In order to eliminate the risk of the door freezing to the casing due to the appearance of water or frost on its edge, an appropriate heating installation was installed in the place of door contact.

4.
The refrigeration unit was filled with the natural refrigerant (propane-R290), due to its following advantages over typical synthetic refrigerants such as R134a, R452a, and R404a: -GWP-greenhouse effect potential for propane is 3, where for R134a it is = 1430, for R452a = 2141, and for R404a = 3922. -High energy efficiency (lower energy consumption with similar cooling capacity) -for a cooling capacity of 434 W (evaporation −10 • C and condensation +50 • C), the electrical power of the unit with propane is 154 W-for R134a, it is 208 W (efficiency 457 W), and for R452a, it is 239 W (efficiency 467 W).

5.
Propane flammability is the disadvantage, but this problem has been eliminated by: -Using the propane advantage of a high specific mass cooling capacity of 290 kJ/kg and for which the amount of refrigerant in the system was only 90 g (this exempted fire protection)-for R134a, it was 150 kJ/kg and 240 g. -Hermetically sealing the refrigeration system. This meant that all connections were soldered. The system did not have a service valve for possible refrigerant recovery and filling in case of repair work. The service pipe was clamped and also soldered. Special tools must be used for repair work.

6.
The unit complies with fire and safety regulations. This solution increased fire safety in the event of a refrigerant leak. It also prevented the refrigerant from accumulating in one place, because the density of propane is higher than that of air. The boxes were cooled down by blowing the cooled air from the evaporator through a ventilation duct located at the rear of the module and through air supply openings in the rear walls of the boxes, while the side walls of the boxes were equipped with air deflectors. 7.
The doors of individual boxes were opened by lifting the lock of the door of a given box after reading the correct code provided by the supplier or recipient of goods. Door opening should last as short as possible. For this purpose, the module was equipped with a door opening sound signal, which reminded the person opening the door that it was not closed. After a specified time (e.g., 15 s), the intensity of this signal changed. If the door still did not close, the technical service was notified.
In order to verify the correctness of the MainBox operation in real conditions, food sets were prepared for their loading. Food products that require specific temperature conditions during storage were included. The chambers of the prototype refrigeration unit were filled with products from the following groups (dairy products, cold cuts, meat, ready meals: fruit/vegetables). On the other hand, the prototype freezing device contained: ice cream, frozen vegetables/fruit, and culinary products. Products stored in refrigeration and freezing conditions were packed in two types of packaging: biodegradable foil packaging and cardboard packaging.

Testing Temperatures in Prototype Equipment
The conditions for storing products in prototype cooling and freezing devices were monitored. For this purpose, the optimal arrangement of temperature sensors in each MainBox chamber and the system for the continuous recording of these parameters were designed. The diagram of the device with the location of these sensors and every box internal dimensions is shown in Figure 2. In each box, the sensor was placed in the upper right corner, 15 cm from the top edge and 12 cm from the side edge. Monitoring the temperature inside the MainBox was possible through the developed and installed temperature recording system. The temperature was recorded for every 2 min through 48 h in 5 iterations.
walls of the boxes, while the side walls of the boxes were equipped with air deflectors. 7. The doors of individual boxes were opened by lifting the lock of the door of a given box after reading the correct code provided by the supplier or recipient of goods. Door opening should last as short as possible. For this purpose, the module was equipped with a door opening sound signal, which reminded the person opening the door that it was not closed. After a specified time (e.g., 15 s), the intensity of this signal changed. If the door still did not close, the technical service was notified.
In order to verify the correctness of the MainBox operation in real conditions, food sets were prepared for their loading. Food products that require specific temperature conditions during storage were included. The chambers of the prototype refrigeration unit were filled with products from the following groups (dairy products, cold cuts, meat, ready meals: fruit/vegetables). On the other hand, the prototype freezing device contained: ice cream, frozen vegetables/fruit, and culinary products. Products stored in refrigeration and freezing conditions were packed in two types of packaging: biodegradable foil packaging and cardboard packaging.

Testing Temperatures in Prototype Equipment
The conditions for storing products in prototype cooling and freezing devices were monitored. For this purpose, the optimal arrangement of temperature sensors in each MainBox chamber and the system for the continuous recording of these parameters were designed. The diagram of the device with the location of these sensors and every box internal dimensions is shown in Figure 2. In each box, the sensor was placed in the upper right corner, 15 cm from the top edge and 12 cm from the side edge. Monitoring the temperature inside the MainBox was possible through the developed and installed temperature recording system. The temperature was recorded for every 2 min through 48 h in 5 iterations.

Thermal Imaging Tests on Prototype Devices
The operation of the cooling and freezing modules was tested in real weather conditions in the city of Lodz, Poland in July 2019, and the temperatures during this period are shown in Figure 3.

Thermal Imaging Tests on Prototype Devices
The operation of the cooling and freezing modules was tested in real weather conditions in the city of Lodz, Poland in July 2019, and the temperatures during this period are shown in Figure 3.
The temperature distribution, heat transfer, and tightness in individual boxes of the innovative MainBox device were examined, depending on the type of stored products. These studies were carried out using thermal imaging techniques. For the analysis and monitoring of temperatures, a FLIR T1020 28 • thermal imaging camera with a 1024 × 768 pixel detector was used, characterized by the following parameters: sensitivity 20 mK (<0.02 • C), measurement accuracy ±1 • C or ±1%, measurement range 40 • C up to +2000 • C, and spatial resolution for 28 • lens. The study used its own measurement methodology in the measuring range of the thermal imaging camera from −40 • C to +150 • C with the use of the HB-250 tape for identification and measurement of the emissivity coefficients [27]. Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 15 The temperature distribution, heat transfer, and tightness in individual boxes of the innovative MainBox device were examined, depending on the type of stored products. These studies were carried out using thermal imaging techniques. For the analysis and monitoring of temperatures, a FLIR T1020 28° thermal imaging camera with a 1024 × 768 pixel detector was used, characterized by the following parameters: sensitivity 20 mK (<0.02 °C), measurement accuracy ±1 °C or ±1%, measurement range 40 °C up to +2000 °C, and spatial resolution for 28° lens. The study used its own measurement methodology in the measuring range of the thermal imaging camera from −40 °C to +150 °C with the use of the HB-250 tape for identification and measurement of the emissivity coefficients [27].

Refrigerant Characteristics
For the designed device, a propane (R290) refrigeration system was selected. The properties of this factor, in the light of the regulations and the plans to amend the Regulation (EU) 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases [28], were a key argument for use in commercial refrigeration furniture, including the designed MainBox. As of 2020, all refrigeration equipment may only be filled with low GWP refrigerant. Such requirements are met by propane with a GWP = 3 index and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP = 0), thus it has no harmful effect on the environment [29]. At the same time, propane as an environmentally friendly medium is an efficient refrigerant (it has similar properties to R22, difluorochloromethane, which is now withdrawn from use).
Propane is characterized by high energy efficiency, good volumetric capacity, and has a large compressor operating range, when compared to the HFC refrigerants (currently withdrawn from applications). Its use is limited by flammability and explosiveness. It is classified in the A3 safety group. These features limited its use to small refrigeration systems, e.g., air conditioners installed outside buildings, and hermetic commercial equipment and chilled water units. It was assumed that the filling in the chiller would not exceed 150 g of propane in order to ensure the safety of the designed device [30]. In addition, a special electrical equipment was also used to work in an explosive atmosphere. The MainBox is dedicated to operate in the open air, which minimized the risk of an explosive atmosphere in the event of refrigerant leak.
The cooling capacity of each module was determined, taking into account the storage temperatures of +5 °C and −18 °C, equipment capacity, insulation, as well as location (temperature conditions inside and outside).

Refrigerant Characteristics
For the designed device, a propane (R290) refrigeration system was selected. The properties of this factor, in the light of the regulations and the plans to amend the Regulation (EU) 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases [28], were a key argument for use in commercial refrigeration furniture, including the designed MainBox. As of 2020, all refrigeration equipment may only be filled with low GWP refrigerant. Such requirements are met by propane with a GWP = 3 index and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP = 0), thus it has no harmful effect on the environment [29]. At the same time, propane as an environmentally friendly medium is an efficient refrigerant (it has similar properties to R22, difluorochloromethane, which is now withdrawn from use).
Propane is characterized by high energy efficiency, good volumetric capacity, and has a large compressor operating range, when compared to the HFC refrigerants (currently withdrawn from applications). Its use is limited by flammability and explosiveness. It is classified in the A3 safety group. These features limited its use to small refrigeration systems, e.g., air conditioners installed outside buildings, and hermetic commercial equipment and chilled water units. It was assumed that the filling in the chiller would not exceed 150 g of propane in order to ensure the safety of the designed device [30]. In addition, a special electrical equipment was also used to work in an explosive atmosphere. The MainBox is dedicated to operate in the open air, which minimized the risk of an explosive atmosphere in the event of refrigerant leak.
The cooling capacity of each module was determined, taking into account the storage temperatures of +5 • C and −18 • C, equipment capacity, insulation, as well as location (temperature conditions inside and outside). The total capacity of the chambers in the module was estimated at approximately 350 L (0.35 m 3 ). Commercial refrigeration furniture most often had an aggregate with a capacity, respectively, for the cooling system approximately 200-250 W, and for the freezing, approximately 230-410 W. As part of the research, on the basis of electric power consumption, the following outputs were determined: -For a 298 W cooling module, at the following temperatures: evaporation −5 • C, chamber +2 • C, and ambient +40 • C. -For the 410 W freezing module, at the following temperatures: evaporation −25 • C, chamber −18 • C, and ambient +40 • C. The cooling installation was adapted by designing appropriate safeguards (e.g., pressure switch, electric heater) to different environmental conditions (air temperatures ranging from −20 • C to +35 • C), as the food storage modules will be installed outside the shop buildings. A pressure switch (a sensor showing a differential pressure) kept the pressure within the specified range on the condenser. When the pressure dropped below the set value, the fan was turned off, and when the pressure exceeded the set value, it was turned on. When the ambient temperature reached negative values, it was necessary to use an additional electric heater, which in the case of a cooling module, prevented the temperature in the chambers from dropping below +5 • C, and it helped to maintain the optimal temperature for storing products.
When performing thermovision tests and interpreting thermograms, the criterion of temperature difference of more than 10 • C between a given area of the contact surface or electrical device with increased temperature and its surroundings was adopted as the condition indicating improper operation of a given component. However, for the assessment of the construction of objects (e.g., insulation), the significant temperature difference was about 2 • C. Special attention was paid to the temperature range assigned to individual thermograms, because the isotherm colors of one thermogram did not correspond to the colors and temperatures of the other thermograms. An important factor in the thermograms' interpretation was the type of surface and material from which the component was made. This was due to the fact that the emission factor of the measured surface was different. Therefore, for example, some painted components may have a different color on the thermogram despite the same temperature.

Temperature Monitoring of Prototype Equipment
Monitoring of the temperature inside the MainBox was possible with the developed and installed system of its recording with the optimal arrangement of sensors. The measured temperatures of individual boxes of the cooling and freezing modules (numbering of chambers from the top of the module, as shown in Figure 2) were within the ranges given in Table 1. Temperature readings were with the accuracy ±0.1 • C. An exemplary record of the internal temperatures monitoring in the chambers of the cooling and freezing modules recorded temperature amplitude of approximately 3 • C and 6 • C, respectively (Figures 4 and 5). Thus, the designed and manufactured prototype devices with the necessary installations made it possible to maintain appropriate temperature conditions in the empty chambers.     The analysis of the storage conditions of food products in all chambers of the cooling and freezing module was carried out over a period of approximately 48 h, starting from the loading with food products to emptying them. In both prototypes, optimal storage conditions were maintained in each box during loading (Tables 2 and 3). Smaller temperature fluctuations occurred in the chambers during the unloading of products, both in the cooling boxes ( Figure 6) and in the freezing boxes (Figure 7). In the case of the freezing module, temperature differences of approximately 7 °C were identified. The minimum freezer storage ranges (below −18 °C) were achieved. The temperature data showed that relatively stable temperatures were maintained for 48 h during storage.  The analysis of the storage conditions of food products in all chambers of the cooling and freezing module was carried out over a period of approximately 48 h, starting from the loading with food products to emptying them. In both prototypes, optimal storage conditions were maintained in each box during loading (Tables 2 and 3). Smaller temperature fluctuations occurred in the chambers during the unloading of products, both in the cooling boxes ( Figure 6) and in the freezing boxes (Figure 7). In the case of the freezing module, temperature differences of approximately 7 • C were identified. The minimum freezer storage ranges (below −18 • C) were achieved. The temperature data showed that relatively stable temperatures were maintained for 48 h during storage.          To identify thermal anomalies for all filled chambers of the cooling and freezing module immediately after storage, thermal imaging studies were carried out. The exemplary thermograms for chamber 2 in these modules are shown in Figures 8 and 9. The obtained results confirmed that the temperatures were kept at the required level in accordance with the specifications of the project.
Based on the analysis of temperatures, indications of stored frozen and chilled food, and thermovision studies, it was found that the temperatures in all module chambers were acceptable, both for empty chambers and with maximum filling. The modules constructed as part of the project were tested in real conditions. Ensuring optimal temperature condi-tions inside the chambers was possible with a properly functioning system for controlling cooling units. To identify thermal anomalies for all filled chambers of the cooling and freezing module immediately after storage, thermal imaging studies were carried out. The exemplary thermograms for chamber 2 in these modules are shown in Figures 8 and 9. The obtained results confirmed that the temperatures were kept at the required level in accordance with the specifications of the project. Based on the analysis of temperatures, indications of stored frozen and chilled food, and thermovision studies, it was found that the temperatures in all module chambers were acceptable, both for empty chambers and with maximum filling. The modules constructed as part of the project were tested in real conditions. Ensuring optimal temperature conditions inside the chambers was possible with a properly functioning system for controlling cooling units.
The heat exchange process (the condenser fan operation) was regulated by a high pressure switch. When the value of 16 ± 4 bar was exceeded, the fan was turned on; otherwise, it was turned off. In the modules, the controller also protected the chiller. If the evaporator return air temperature dropped by more than 2 °C from the set point, the low temperature alarm was triggered after 20 min. A protection system against too high temperatures has also been developed and installed in the modules. If the value increased by more than 5 °C (compared to the proper value), the alarm was also triggered after 20 min. Moreover, the refrigeration unit was protected against too low or too high pressure of the refrigerant by appropriate pressure switches. They were plugged in series into the compressor power supply electric circuit and, in the event of overpressure, they switched off To identify thermal anomalies for all filled chambers of the cooling and freezing module immediately after storage, thermal imaging studies were carried out. The exemplary thermograms for chamber 2 in these modules are shown in Figures 8 and 9. The obtained results confirmed that the temperatures were kept at the required level in accordance with the specifications of the project. Based on the analysis of temperatures, indications of stored frozen and chilled food, and thermovision studies, it was found that the temperatures in all module chambers were acceptable, both for empty chambers and with maximum filling. The modules constructed as part of the project were tested in real conditions. Ensuring optimal temperature conditions inside the chambers was possible with a properly functioning system for controlling cooling units.
The heat exchange process (the condenser fan operation) was regulated by a high pressure switch. When the value of 16 ± 4 bar was exceeded, the fan was turned on; otherwise, it was turned off. In the modules, the controller also protected the chiller. If the evaporator return air temperature dropped by more than 2 °C from the set point, the low temperature alarm was triggered after 20 min. A protection system against too high temperatures has also been developed and installed in the modules. If the value increased by more than 5 °C (compared to the proper value), the alarm was also triggered after 20 min. Moreover, the refrigeration unit was protected against too low or too high pressure of the refrigerant by appropriate pressure switches. They were plugged in series into the compressor power supply electric circuit and, in the event of overpressure, they switched off The heat exchange process (the condenser fan operation) was regulated by a high pressure switch. When the value of 16 ± 4 bar was exceeded, the fan was turned on; otherwise, it was turned off. In the modules, the controller also protected the chiller. If the evaporator return air temperature dropped by more than 2 • C from the set point, the low temperature alarm was triggered after 20 min. A protection system against too high temperatures has also been developed and installed in the modules. If the value increased by more than 5 • C (compared to the proper value), the alarm was also triggered after 20 min. Moreover, the refrigeration unit was protected against too low or too high pressure of the refrigerant by appropriate pressure switches. They were plugged in series into the compressor power supply electric circuit and, in the event of overpressure, they switched off the compressor power supply. It was restored when the pressure returned to the recommended value plus or minus the differential.
To protect the products stored in the boxes of the cooling module against freezing when the external temperature dropped below 0 • C, all boxes were heated with an additional heater.
The analysis of the influence of negative ambient temperature on the operation of cooling and freezing modules was performed. It was not possible to verify their operation in real winter weather conditions, due to the duration of the research. However, when analyzing the lowest temperatures in Poland in the last five years [31], it was concluded that they did not reach −30 • C over longer periods.
For products stored in the freezing module chambers, the minus outside temperature poses no risk of damage. In the developed solution, the cooling system was turned off (there was no need for it to operate), and the storage temperature in the chambers was maintained at the level required for frozen products (approximately −18 • C). However, when the temperature in the chamber increased, the refrigeration unit was restarted. This was possible with the installation of an appropriate compressor oil sump heater.
On the other hand, products stored in the refrigeration module chambers, when exposed to negative ambient temperature, may be damaged. In order to prevent the temperature inside the boxes of the refrigerated cabinet from lowering (to negative values), heaters with a power of 500 W were used. This value was sufficient, even at the outside temperature of −30 • C (which, as can be seen from the charts, was not achieved in Poland even in the coldest months). Even if such a temperature occurred, these are short-term periods and will not cause undesirable effects. The device had a cooling power of 410 W, and ensured trouble-free achievement of a sufficiently low temperature with a difference of ∆T = 30 • C. The heaters had a power of 500 W; thus, by analogy, they ensured a temperature increase of even ∆T = 35 • C. The applied solutions allowed to guarantee the proper operation of the cooling and freezing modules in the analyzed environmental conditions.

Tightness Monitoring of Prototype Cooling Chambers
The tightness control of cooling and freezing modules filled with food products packed in collective packaging was carried out using the FLIR T1020 thermal imaging camera (Figures 10 and 11). The maximum time the products remained in the chambers until they were picked up by customers was set at 24 h. During the tests, the recorded ambient temperature was 23 • C.
In the prototype of the cooling and freezing module (Figures 10 and 11), minimum temperatures in certain areas were identified, which indicated the presence of thermal bridges and insufficient insulation. These were due to improperly placed gaskets, both on the hinge and lock sides. Thermal bridges were found at the edge of contact between the shelves and the plane of the chamber door. The identified irregularities were eliminated in the prototype device. The places requiring elaboration in the construction of the cooling module have been shown in the thermograms: -Structure leakage-chamber door side wall of the module, causing thermal bridges and insulation leakage between the module and the monoblock (see minimum point Bx1 on Figure 12), -Thermal bridges on the side wall of the module and insulation leakage between the module and the monoblock (see minimum point Bx1 on Figure 13).

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW
The structural imperfections shown on the example of the cooling module w identified in the freezing module, where the leakage phenomenon was even more able, which was visible in the exemplary thermograms of the freezing module ca Figure 13.    The temperatures of the stored food in the prototype module, after 24 h of storage, were acceptable ( Figures 10 and 11). Thermovision made it possible to show the places where modules were modified (leaks removed), the energy losses were lower, which translated into financial savings during operation and benefited for the natural environment (lower amount of carbon dioxide emissions). Such action made the developed innovative devices more attractive for food distributors, as appropriate storage conditions were ensured with lower operating costs.
The structural imperfections shown on the example of the cooling module were also identified in the freezing module, where the leakage phenomenon was even more noticeable, which was visible in the exemplary thermograms of the freezing module cabinet in Figure 13.
The MainBox device has been implemented. The first device was tested in Poznan, Poland. The manufacturer of the device ensures that the tests were successful, hence the decision to go with an offer of cooperation to grocery store chains, drugstores, or catering companies.  The MainBox device has been implemented. The first device was tested in Poznan, Poland. The manufacturer of the device ensures that the tests were successful, hence the decision to go with an offer of cooperation to grocery store chains, drugstores, or catering companies.

Conclusions
MainBox prototype units were designed and built. The solution is optimized in terms of greenhouse gas emissions by maximizing energy efficiency and using natural refrigerant in refrigeration and freezing systems. The innovative food box solution is a breakthrough in the food market, as it has a huge commercial potential while reducing the negative effects of civilization (food waste) and climate change. The device uses a working fluid with low greenhouse effect creation potential; this will enable practical implementation of legislative requirements (national and international) regarding the so-called greenhouse gases. The following innovative solutions have been introduced in the MainBox device: - The refrigeration unit was adapted to work in external conditions by installing additional elements (pressure switches for protecting compressor, pressure switch for condensing pressure control). -Temperature control in individual boxes correlated with temperature of return air to cooling unit was designed and heating of chambers was ensured. -Optimum access to the boxes was ensured.

Conclusions
MainBox prototype units were designed and built. The solution is optimized in terms of greenhouse gas emissions by maximizing energy efficiency and using natural refrigerant in refrigeration and freezing systems. The innovative food box solution is a breakthrough in the food market, as it has a huge commercial potential while reducing the negative effects of civilization (food waste) and climate change. The device uses a working fluid with low greenhouse effect creation potential; this will enable practical implementation of legislative requirements (national and international) regarding the so-called greenhouse gases. The following innovative solutions have been introduced in the MainBox device: - The refrigeration unit was adapted to work in external conditions by installing additional elements (pressure switches for protecting compressor, pressure switch for condensing pressure control). -Temperature control in individual boxes correlated with temperature of return air to cooling unit was designed and heating of chambers was ensured. -Optimum access to the boxes was ensured. -Propane as a natural refrigerant was used (high energy efficiency, low GWP), eliminating its amount and sealing the device, thus reducing the risk of explosion (the device met the requirements of fire and safety regulations).
The correct MainBox device operating parameters were maintained with a properly functioning system for the cooling units control and a temperature monitoring system.
At the beginning, the identified structural imperfections in the modules made it possible to react quickly and performed modifications to the insulation that would ensure appropriate storage conditions and reduce the need for cold. Summarizing the conducted thermovision examinations, it was found that there were no anomalies in the operation of the equipment, no anomalies of the MainBox insulation, and no anomalies related to overheating of wires, excessive load on electrical connections. Thermal imaging studies of the temperature of food stored for 24 h in refrigeration and freezer furniture showed optimal temperatures of these products.
Thermal imaging tests and temperature monitoring have confirmed that the designed and manufactured food storage devices allowed maintaining optimal temperature conditions inside the chambers. MainBox is a device that allowed to safely receive food products at any time, which was a specific need during an epidemic time. Rational use of energy in the agro-food industry through optimization of thermal processes translated into ensuring food safety throughout the entire cold chain.
The developed new product MainBox is an advanced food device that enables remote ordering and collection at any time of food products, previously delivered by a selected supplier. MainBox customers can easily and quickly make current purchases without unnecessary storage at home and pick up the ordered purchases (e.g., on their way home from work), preventing their expiration, spoilage and, consequently, wasting. MainBox will contribute to rational food management.

Patent
Patent Application P.437818 Use of Refrigerant as a Cold Carrier in Refrigeration and Freezing Equipment (10 May 2021).