Insulated containers

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to various insulated containers. In one embodiment, an insulated container includes a body and a lid. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body by a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly. The first hinge assembly pivotally couples the lid to the body at a position opposite the second hinge assembly. The first hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a first open position in a first direction. The second hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a second open position in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Description

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] The present application claims priority to CN Application No. 202420282298.9, filed February 5, 2024, and PCT / CN2024 / 075993, filed February 5, 2024 the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0002] The present specification generally relates to insulated containers and, more specifically, actively cooled insulated containers. Background

[0003] Insulated containers generally refers to containers which attempt to maintain, lower, or raise a temperature of a stored item from an ambient temperature. For example, hot storage containers may be used to maintain a temperature of a stored item above an ambient temperature while cold storage (e.g., coolers) are generally used to maintain a stored item at a temperature below the ambient temperature. Both hot storage containers and cold storage containers may be have insulated walls. In some cases, cold storage containers may include passive or active components to maintain a desired temperature. In passive cooling, for example, the insulated container generally relies on insulation and ice, ice packs, or the like to maintain a cool interior. In contrast, active coolers may use one or more powered components such as powered refrigeration circuits, which may include, for example, compressors, pumps, condensers, evaporators, etc., to actively reduce an interior temperature of insulated container. Active cooling containers may be useful in situations where ice is not readily available.

[0004] As the need to maintain, cool, or even heat stored items remains, improved insulated containers which have increased utility, better mobility, and / or improved power sources are desirable. Summary

[0005] In one embodiment an insulated container includes a body and a lid. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body by a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly. The first hinge assembly pivotally couples the lid to the body at a position opposite the second hinge assembly. The first hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a first open position in a first direction. The second hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a second open position in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0006] In another embodiment, an insulated container includes a body, a lid, a battery, and a release mechanism. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body and provides access to the storage volume. The battery is removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components. The release mechanism is operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, an insulated container includes a body, a lid, a handle bar assembly and a tray. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body and provides access to the storage volume, the lid defining a tray-receiving recess. The handle bar assembly is mounted to the body and configured to telescope relative to the body between a retracted position and an extended position. The tray is configured to be stored within the tray-receiving recess and, when removed from the tray-receiving recess, is configured to be removably mounted to the handle bar assembly when in the extended position.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, an insulated container includes a body, a lid, a divider, a sensor, a display, and a controller. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body and provides access to the storage volume. The lid defines a tray-receiving recess. The divider is configured to be positioned within the storage volume. The sensor outputs a signal indicative of the divider being positioned within the storage volume. The controller is communicatively coupled to the sensor and the display and is configured to determine whether the divider is positioned within the storage volume based on the signal from the sensor, adjust the display to depict a first temperature control where the divider is positioned within the storage volume, and adjust the display to depict a second temperature control when the divider is not positioned within the storage volume.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, an insulated container assembly includes an insulated container and a trolley. The insulated container includes a body and a lid. The body defines a storage volume and retains one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body and provides access to the storage volume. The trolley is coupled to the body of the insulated container and includes a trolley base for receiving the body, a telescoping handle assembly, and a battery holster. The telescoping handle assembly extends generally vertically from the body so as to be extendable past the lid of the insulated container. The battery holster is coupled to the telescoping handle assembly for receiving a battery for powering the one or more active cooling components.

[0010] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0012] FIG. 1A depicts a first perspective view of an insulated container including a lid and a body, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0013] FIG. IB depicts another perspective view of the insulated container of FIG. 1, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0014] FIG. IC depicts a top perspective view of the insulated container without the lid, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0015] FIG. ID depicts the lid of the insulated container of FIG. 1A opening in a first direction to a first open position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0016] FIG. IE depicts the lid of the insulated container of FIG. ID opening in a second direction opposite the first direction to a second open position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0017] FIG. IF depicts a top down view of the lid of FIG. 1 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0018] FIG. 1G depicts the lid of FIG. IF removed from the body of the insulated container, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0019] FIG. 1H schematically depicts a cooling components including one or more active cooling components for use as part of an insulated container, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0020] FIG. 2A depicts a detailed perspective view of a hinge assembly of the lid of FIG. 1 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0021] FIG. 2B depicts a perspective view of an underside of the lid of FIG. 2A in isolation of the body, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0022] FIG. 2C depicts a buckle of the hinge assembly of the lid of FIG. 2A removed from the lid, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0023] FIG. 2D depicts the buckle in isolation from the lid of FIG. 2C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0024] FIG. 2E depicts a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly in an exploded view, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0025] FIG. 3 A depicts a cross-section view through the buckle assembly of FIG. 2A in a closed position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0026] FIG. 3B depicts a cross-section view of a buckle of the buckle assembly of FIG. 3A rotated to an open position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0027] FIG. 3C depicts a cross-section view of the lid of FIG. 3B lifted to an open position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0028] FIG. 3D depicts another section perspective of FIG. 3C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0029] FIG. 3E depicts another cross-section through the buckle assembly of FIG 3 A without the base, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0030] FIG. 3F depicts, in section, rotation of the lid of FIG. 3D about a second buckle assembly to the open position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0031] FIG. 3G depicts, in section, rotation of the lid of FIG. 3F back toward a closed position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0032] FIG. 4A depicts a battery mounted to the body of the insulated container of FIG. 1 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0033] FIG. 4B depicts a side door opening of the battery of FIG. 4A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0034] FIG. 4C depicts the battery released from the body of FIG. 4A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0035] FIG. 4D depicts the battery removed from the body of FIG. 4C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0036] FIG. 5A depicts placement of the battery within a battery-receiving recess in the body of FIG. 4A-4D, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0037] FIG. 5B depicts a cross-section of a release mechanism for locking or releasing the battery of FIG. 5 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0038] FIG. 5C depicts the release mechanism moved to a locking configuration, to retain the battery in the battery-receiving recess of FIG. 5B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0039] FIG. 5D depicts movement of the release mechanism of FIG. 5C to an unlocking position, accordingly one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0040] FIG. 5E depicts tilting of the battery away from the release mechanism of FIG. 5D, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0041] FIG. 6A depicts a battery including a release mechanism actuated to a locked position for use with an insulated container, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0042] FIG. 6B depicts the release mechanism of FIG. 6A in an unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0043] FIG. 6C depicts another view of the battery of FIG. 6A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0044] FIG. 7A depicts an alternative coupling arrangement between a battery and an insulated container, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0045] FIG. 7B depicts a back surface of the battery of FIG. 7A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0046] FIG. 8A depicts a cross-section of the battery and the insulated container of FIG. 7A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0047] FIG. 8B depicts a mounting block of the insulated container being received within a mounting recess formed within the battery of FIG. 8A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0048] FIG. 8C depicts the battery of FIG. 8B being slid relative to the mounting block to lock the battery in place, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0049] FIG. 9A depicts an insulated container without a lid to depict a storage volume of the cooler and a divider positioned within the storage volume, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0050] FIG. 9B depicts the divider removed from the insulated container of FIG. 9A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0051] FIG. 9C depicts a portion of the storage volume of FIG. 9B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0052] FIG. 10 depicts multiple components which may be stored in the storage volume of an insulated container, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0053] FIG. 11 depicts a system for controlling and / or displaying settings of a cooler box, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0054] FIG. 12A depicts a cross-section of an insulated container including a divider, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0055] FIG. 12B depicts a sensor for detecting the divider of FIG. 12A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0056] FIG. 13A depicts a first display, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0057] FIG. 13B depicts a second display, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0058] FIG. 14A depicts a first display, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0059] FIG. 14B depicts a second display, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0060] FIG. 15 depicts a telescoping handle assembly of the insulated container of FIG. 1 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0061] FIG. 16A depicts the telescoping handle assembly of FIG. 15 in isolation, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0062] FIG. 16B depicts the telescoping handle assembly of FIG. 16A in an extended configuration, according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

[0063] FIG. 17A depicts an insulated container with a telescoping handle assembly and a tray, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0064] FIG. 17B depicts the tray mounted to the telescoping handle assembly of FIG. 17A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0065] FIG. 18 depicts an underside of the tray of FIG. 16A including a magnet, according to one or more embodiments shown and described.

[0066] FIG. 19A depicts the tray mounted within a tray receiving recess of a lid in a first position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0067] FIG. 19B depicts the tray of FIG. 19A slid to a second position within the tray-receiving recess, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0068] FIG. 19C depicts a detailed view of a retention tab retaining the tray of FIG. 19B within the tray-receiving recess, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0069] FIG. 20A depicts an insulated container mounted to a trolley to provide an insulated container assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0070] FIG. 20B depicts a rear view of the insulated container assembly of FIG. 20A including a battery, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0071] FIG. 20C depicts the battery of FIG. 20B removed, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0072] FIG. 20D depicts a cross-section of the insulated container of FIG. 20C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0073] FIG. 20E depicts a bottom perspective view of the insulated container and trolley of FIG. 20 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0074] FIG. 21A depicts a trolley in isolation, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0075] FIG. 2IB depicts a retaining mechanism for retaining a gasket to the trolley of FIG. 21 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0076] FIG. 21C depicts an interior view of the trolley of FIG. 21 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0077] FIG. 21D depicts a first cross-section of the trolley of FIG. 21C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0078] FIG. 21E depicts a second cross-section of the trolley of FIG. 21D, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Detailed Description

[0079] The present disclosure is directed to various embodiments of improved insulated containers, which include, but are not limited to, features which improve utility, transportability, and / or power supply. It is noted that while embodiments are generally directed to actively cooled insulated containers, in various embodiments, it is contemplated that features may be incorporated into passive insulated containers and / or actively heated containers. That is “insulated containers,” are devices that are insulated and may be used for hot or warm food and drink to retain temperature in either a passive manner or an active manner. Moreover, portions of embodiments may be incorporated into other, for example, non-insulated-type, storage containers, such as boxes, cabinets, etc. As an example, FIGS. 1 A-1G generally depicts one embodiment of an insulated container including a body and a lid. The insulated container is actively cooled via one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body. The lid is pivotally coupled to the body via a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly. The first hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a first open position in a first direction and the second hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a second open position in a second direction opposite the first direction. In some embodiments the lid may be completely removed. Each of these instances increases utility by allowing a user more convenient and flexible access to a storage volume of the insulated container. In further embodiments, an insulated container includes a removable battery allowing easy battery recharge and / or replacement, or use with other devices such as lights, for example. Some embodiments may include telescoping handles, internal dividers, and other features improving use and / or mobility. Various embodiments of the insulated containers and benefits will be described in greater detail below.

[0080] Referring now to FIG. 1A and IB, an embodiment of an insulated container 10. The insulated container 10 includes a body 20 and a lid 30. FIG. 1A depicts a first end of the insulated container 10 and FIG. IB depicts an opposite end of the insulated container 10. The insulated container 10 may further include a first hinge assembly 40a and a second hinge assembly 40b, which pivotally couples the body 20 to the lid 30. In embodiments, insulated container 10 may further include a battery 50, which may be removably coupled to the body 20. A release mechanism 60, described in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 4B-6B, may be incorporated into the body 20 and / or the battery 50 to allow for release of the battery 50 from the body 20. The insulated container 10 may further include a handle bar assembly 70. In the depicted embodiment, the insulated container 10 may include wheels 80 to provide for mobility. In yet further embodiments, the insulated container 10 may instead, or in addition to have wheels 80, include a trolley 400 having wheels 80’, as depicted in FIGS. 20A-20E. In embodiments, the insulated container 10 may include a controller 302 for controlling operation of the driven cooling functionality of the insulated container 10. Embodiments may have a greater or fewer number of components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0081] To provide context and within the framework of the present embodiments, but without limitation, all directional terms, used herein like front, rear, back, upper, lower, above, sink, above, vertical, lateral, as well as broadness and depth refer to the insulated container 10 standing on the ground as usually intended and from a perspective facing the side of the insulated container 10 were the edge of the lid 30 is pivotable to the above, vertical, or upward direction while opening, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Unless stated explicitly, these direction terms should not be interpreted as limiting.

[0082] Referring also to FIG. IC, which illustrates the lid 30 removed from the body 20, the body 20 defines a storage volume 21 for receiving stored items intended to be kept cool cold, warm, or hot for example, food, drinks, organs, bait, etc. The body 20 may have any suitable shape including an exterior wall 22. In the depicted embodiment, the exterior wall 22 defines two opposing end walls 22a, 22b, and two opposing side walls 22c, 22d, to provide a rectangular prism shape, though other shapes are contemplated and possible. The exterior wall 22 may be of a multi-layered construction, which may include insulation, coolant flow paths for active cooling, etc. For example, the exterior wall 22 may include an inner wall or liner, an outer wall, and an insulation layer therebetween with one or more layers defining the coolant flow paths.

[0083] In embodiments, the insulated container 10 may have one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body 20. The one or more active cooling components 12 may be positioned adjacent the storage volume 21. For example, the body 20 may define a cooling component compartment 24 for housing the one or more active cooling components 12. Such active cooling components 12 may include typical refrigeration cycle components such as, a compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, or the like. The one or more active cooling components 12 may circulate cooling or refrigerant fluid through the exterior wall 22 to actively cool the storage volume 21. However, this is just one example of active cooling, and others, for example thermoelectric systems among others, are contemplated and possible. The one or more active cooling components 12 may include an electrically driven cooling component, which may be powered via a power source (e.g., the battery 50, or via plugging in a socket 17, which may be provided on the exterior wall 22, such as an end wall, as depicted, or a sidewall). Accordingly, in some embodiments, the insulated container 10 can be used in plugged-in mode or in battery mode. Still further, when equipped with a drain, it is contemplated that the insulated container 10 may also be used with ice, phase change products, or both.

[0084] In the depicted embodiment, the cooling component compartment 24 may be positioned so as to extend beneath a portion of the storage volume 21. Accordingly, in embodiments, the insulated container 10 may include a stepped interior within the storage volume 21 and the cooling component compartment 24 is positioned beneath a step 25 of the stepped interior. In embodiments, the insulated container 10 may be equipped with air vents 26. The air vents 26 may include slotted openings to allow airflow into and out of the cooling component compartment. The air vents 26 may be located within the exterior wall 22 to allow air flow into and / or out of the cooling component compartment 24 to prevent overheating, for example. In the depicted embodiment, the air vents 26 may be positioned in the first sidewall 22c, the second sidewall 22d, and one of the first end wall 22a or the second end wall 22b, depending on the location of the cooling component compartment 24.

[0085] As noted above, the storage volume 21 may include a stepped interior such that the depth of the storage volume 21 changes from a first depth at a first portion of the storage volume 21 to a second depth at the step 25. That is the depth of the storage volume 21 at the step 25 may be reduced depth relative to the first depth. Stated another way, a floor 22e of the inner compartment may vary within the storage volume 21.

[0086] In embodiments, coupled to the body 20 may be wheels 80 for moving the insulated container 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the insulated container 10 has two wheels 80. The wheels 80 may be arranged as the bottom of the body 20 on two opposing sides 22c, 22d. The wheels 80 may be sunk or recessed into the respective sides 22c, 22d such that the smooth, uniform, and robust look of the insulated container 10 is preserved. The wheels 80 may be attached to an attachment portion of the body 20, which may be within or adjacent to the air vents 26. The wheels 80 may be attached via any suitable mounting brackets. The wheels 80 may be arranged rotatably on the insulated container 10 along a common rotation axis such that when pushing or pulling the insulated container 10, the box moves along the direction of pushing or pulling due to rotation of the wheels 80. When the insulated container 10 is not moved, the insulated container 10 can be rested on one or more stands 15 mounted or arranged on the bottom of the body 20.

[0087] Referring again to FIGS. 1A and IB in conjunction with FIG. ID and IE, the lid 30 may be pivotally coupled to the body 20 via a hinge assembly. It is noted while one lid 30 is depicted, insulated containers accordingly to the present disclosure may have more than one lid, such as two or more lids. In embodiments including multiple lids, the lids may be arranged side-by-side to provide alternative access to the storage volume 21 or access to separate storage volumes.

[0088] In this particular embodiment, the insulated container 10 is illustrated with a dual or double-hinged assembly including a first hinge assembly 40a and a second hinge assembly 40b. The first hinge assembly 40a allows the lid 30 to pivot to a first open position, illustrated in FIG. ID, in a first direction, and the second hinge assembly 40b allows the lid 30 to pivot to a second open position, illustrated in FIG. IE, in a second direction opposite the first direction. In the depicted embodiment, the first hinge assembly 40a is located at the first sidewall 22c and the second hinge assembly 40b is located on the second sidewall 22d, but the first hinge assembly 40a could instead be located on the first end wall 22a and the second hinge assembly 40b could be located on the second end wall 22b, such as depicted in FIG. 2E. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that a hinge assembly could be mounted or mountable to both the end walls and the sidewalls to provide even further options for the user. In the depicted embodiment, the first hinge assembly 40a is located on a first vented wall. Similarly, the second hinge assembly 40b may be located on a second vented wall. In some embodiments, the first hinge assembly 40a and the second hinge assembly 40b are mounted to different sidewalls than the battery 50. The first and second hinge assemblies will be described in greater detail further below.

[0089] FIGS. IF and 1G illustrate additional views of the lid 30 including the lid 30 removed from the body 20 in FIG. 1G. In embodiments, the lid 30 may include lid edges 30a, 30b, 30c, and 30d defining a periphery of the lid 30, which may be shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the body 20, such as an opening into the storage volume 21. In some embodiments, the body 20 may have a frame portion 27 defining the opening into the storage volume 21. The frame portion 27 may have one or more fenders 27a which sits adjacent to the lid 30 and may be equal to the level of the lid 30 when the lid 30 is closed. Accordingly, when the lid 30 is closed it sinks relative to the fender 27a, to provide a smooth transition between the fender 27a and the lid 30. Though FIG. 1G illustrates a single fender 27a, in some embodiments, two opposing fenders may be included, wherein the lid 30 nests between the two fenders.

[0090] In some embodiments, the lid 30 has a top surface 32, which may have recessed portion 34 which may extend along the majority of the top surface 32. In embodiments, an insert 35, which may be a rubber or other grippy and / or soft material, for example and without limitation TPE, may be positioned within the recessed portion 34. The insert 35 may provide an anti-slip surface to place items, such as glasses, personal devices, or the like on. Moreover the, insert 35 may provide a soft sitting area for a user. The insert 35 may be inserted after the lid 30 is formed, or the insert 35 may be molded in position when the lid 30 is formed.

[0091] In some embodiments, the lid 30 may be provided within a plurality of anchors 37, best seen in FIGS. ID and IE, incorporated into an outer surface of the lid 30. The anchors 37 may be spaced apart from the recessed portion 34 such that a space is provided between the anchors 37 and the recessed portion 34 of the lid 30. The anchors 37 may be used for fixing additional components onto the insulated container 10, for example, with a snap hook or similar device. Additionally, a tension belt, strap, ratchet strap, bungee cord, or similar securing elements can be pulled along or under the anchors 37 for securing the insulated container 10 to a vehicle during travel. The plurality of anchors 37 may take on various forms such as bars, rods, hooks, etc. It is noted that while a plurality of anchors 37 are depicted, in some embodiments there may be a single anchor.

[0092] The body 20, the lid 30, and / or any portion of the insulated container 10 may be formed through any conventional manufacturing process such as, but not limited to injection molding, blow molding, rotomolding, or the like. In embodiment, insulation between walls may be urethane, polyurethane, Styrofoam, polyethylene foam though other insulation materials are contemplated and possible.

[0093] FIG. 1H schematically depicts a schematic view of cooling components, one or more of which may include electrically driven cooling components, interacting with one another for active cooling of an insulated container 10 as described herein. The one or more of active cooling components 12 or a portion thereof may be stored in the cooling component compartment 24. The term “cooling components” refers to the components that perform the cooling of fluid, such as without limitation, a compressor 12a, heat exchanger condenser 12b, evaporator 12c, and / or expansion device 12d. Other components and devices may be utilized, and for example may include reversing valves for heat pump functionality or an electric heater. However, this list is not exhaustive but instead merely descriptive. Moreover, a heating function is not required with the cooling function. The plurality of active cooling components is shown in schematic view for ease of discussion. As depicted, the compressor 12a compresses a refrigerant, which is circulated through fluid paths in the insulated container 10. The compressor 12a includes a motor, which may be a part of the compressor structure or may be a separate component that connects to the compressor 12a. The motor is not shown but generally represented and discussed as a portion of the compressor 12a. In the circuit, the compressed refrigerant next passes through a heat exchanger 12b, such as a condenser which cools the high pressure vapor into liquid refrigerant. Heat from the condenser may be expelled to atmosphere through vents in the walls of the insulated container.

[0094] Next, the refrigerant reaches an expansion device 12d, such as a capillary tube, an expansion valve, or the like which reduces pressure of the liquid refrigerant, that then allows the refrigerant to boil and absorb heat as the refrigerant passes through an evaporator 12c. The expansion device 12c meters the refrigerant moving from the heat exchanger 12b to the evaporator 12c. The evaporator may be embodied by a plurality of refrigerant pathways within the walls of the insulated container and / or in the base so that the cold refrigerant moving therethrough removes heat from the interior of the insulated container. After passing through the evaporator 12c, the refrigerant returns to the compressor 12a for the compression to pass through the cycle again.

[0095] The refrigerant may be of various types. For example, some refrigerants which may be utilized include hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), such as R-410A, HCFCs such as R-22, HFCs R-134a, R600a, R1234yf, and / or R1234e. Still further, newer refrigerants may include supercritical carbon dioxide, known as R-744, R-470a and R466a. These have similar efficiencies compared to existing CFC and HFC based compounds, and have lower global warming potential. These are merely examples however as other refrigerants may be used.

[0096] The schematic view is a simple compression cycle and other features and functions may be utilized. For example, additional conduit lines of further complexity may be utilized to provide the desired cooling. As previously mentioned, a reversing valve may be added to provide heat pump function. The schematic view, therefore, is merely exemplary for depicting the general refrigerant compression cooling cycle and should not be considered limiting, as other embodiments are possible.

[0097] FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate additional features of the first hinge assembly 40a and the second hinge assembly 40b. It is noted that the first hinge assembly 40a and the second hinge assembly 40b are substantially identical to one another accordingly description of one applies to the other unless otherwise noted or apparent. The lid 30 and the body 20 may include aligned recesses for receiving the first and second hinges assemblies 40a, 40b. Each hinge assembly may include a lid buckle 42 (also referred to as a door catch and depicted in FIGS. 2A-2E), a pivot cradle 44 (also referred to as a hinge card seat or hinge seat and depicted in FIG. 2B, 2C, and 2E), a body hinge pin 43 (depicted in FIG. 2C, and 2E), and a lid hinge pin 45 (depicted in FIGS. 2C and 2E). Each hinge assembly 40a, 40b may include different or additional components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] The lid buckle 42 may be a user actuatable handle for opening the lid 30. The lid buckle 42 may be pivotally mounted to the lid 30 via the lid hinge pin 45 or pins. For example, the lid hinge pin 45 may be a continuous pin or separate pin portions. In either case, the lid buckle 42 may be rotatable about or with the lid hinge pin 45 between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The lid 30 may include a buckle recess 39 for receiving and rotatably mounting the lid buckle 42 to the lid hinge pin 45. For example, the lid buckle 42 may be rotatably connected to two side walls of the buckle recess 39 at both ends respectively through a respective lid hinge pin 45, best illustrated in FIG. 2E. As best depicted in FIG. 2D, the lid buckle 42 may include a latch 46 for latching onto the body hinge pin 43, which is mounted to the body 20. In embodiments, the lid buckle 42 includes a first latch 46a and a second latch 46b spaced from the first latch 46a. The first latch 46a and the second latch 46b may be pawls having concave upper surfaces for receiving the body hinge pin 43.

[0099] The pivot cradle 44 may be mounted to the lid 30 adjacent to the lid buckle 42. The pivot cradle 44 receives and cradles the body 20 hinge pin, to support rotational movement of the lid 30 about the body hinge pin 43. For example, the body hinge pin 43 may be positioned within a latch-receiving recess 29 formed within the body 20, such that the body hinge pin 43 extends from respective sidewalls thereof. In some embodiments, the body hinge pin 43 may include a first portion 43a and a second portion 43b, which are spaced from one another so as to not connect with one another, which may provide additional hand space for handling the lid buckle 42. Such may also simplify assembly. In other embodiments however, there is just a single body hinge pin 43 extending between respective sidewalls of the latch-receiving recess 29. In either case, the pivot cradle 44 may include a first cradle 44a and a second cradle 44b. The first cradle 44a and the second cradle 44b may be mounted to the lid 30 on opposite sides of the buckle recess 39, so as to be positioned on either side of the lid buckle 42. Lower concave surfaces of the first cradle and the second cradle may engage the body hinge pin 43, such that body hinge pin 43 and / or portion thereof support pivoting of the lid 30 relative to the body 20. The first cradle and the second cradle may be mounted to the lid 30 via any suitable technique including fasteners, adhesive, or the like.

[00100] In embodiments, the lid buckle 42 may include cradle covers 48, such as positioned adjacent the first latch and the second latch, which cover or extend over the first cradle and the second cradle to provide a more visually appealing and seamless appearance, which reducing potential pinch points. When the lid 30 is in a closed state, the concave lower surfaces of the first cradle 44a and the second cradle 44b respectively engage with the upper surface of the body hinge pin 43 or portions thereof, and the concave upper surfaces of the first latch 46a and the second latch 46b respectively engage with the lower surfaces of the body hinge pin 43 to lock the lid 30 in a closed position.

[00101] Operation of the hinge assemblies are described in further detail below. In particular, the lid 30 is pivotable about the body hinge pin 43 of the first hinge assembly 40a when the first hinge assembly 40a is in the closed position and the second hinge assembly 40b is moved to the open position; and the lid 30 is pivotable about the body hinge pin 43 of the second hinge assembly 40b when the second hinge assembly 40b is in the closed position and the first hinge assembly 40a is moved to the open position. That is when the first hinge assembly 40a is opened, the second hinge assembly 40b may remain unopened to support rotation or vice-a-versa. Opening of the hinge assembly is caused by movement by rotation of the lid buckle 42, which rotates the corresponding latch 46 so that the latch 46 is disengaged from the corresponding body hinge pin 43. Alternatively when the hinge assembly is closed, the latch 46 engages the body hinge pin 43, inhibiting lifting of the lid 30 but allowing pivoting of the lid 30 around body hinge pin 43. In this latter position, the body hinge pin 43 is captured between the pivot cradle 44 and the latch 46. In some embodiments, both hinge assemblies 40a. 40b may be opened to allow the lid 30 to be completely removed.

[00102] Referring to FIG. 3 A, a hinge assembly (either the first hinge assembly 40a or the second hinge assembly 40b) is depicted in a closed position. In the closed position, the pivot cradle 44 receives the body hinge pin 43 and the latch 46 latches onto the body hinge pin 43, such that the body hinge pin 43 is captured between the pivot cradle 44 and the latch 46. As depicted, the latch 46 extends to a position lower than the pivot cradle 44 to capture the body hinge pin 43 between the pivot cradle and the latch 46.

[00103] FIG. 3B depicts pivoting of the lid buckle 42 counterclockwise about the lid hinge pin 45 to unlatch the latch 46 from the body hinge pin 43 such that the latch 46 is no longer capturing the body hinge pin 43 between the latch 46 and the pivot cradle 44. Any degree of pivoting is contemplated and possible. In some embodiments, the lid buckle 42 may pivot anywhere from 10 to 125 degrees, such as about 18 degrees from the locked position to release the latch 46 from the body hinge pin 43. Pivoting of the lid buckle 42 may be accomplished via pushing the lid buckle 42 at a position above the lid hinge pin 45 or grasping and pulling the lid buckle 42 at a position below the lid hinge pin 45. As illustrated in FIG. 3C and 3D, the lid 30 may now pivot about the other hinge assembly, such as depicted in FIG. 3F, which is still capturing its respective body hinge pin 43 between the pivot cradle 44 and the latch 46.

[00104] In embodiments, the hinge assemblies 40a, 40b may be biased to a closed position. For example, and with reference to FIGS. 2E and 3E, a spring 109 (or multiple springs) or other elastic structure may be positioned between the lid buckle 42 and the lid 30 and bias the lid buckle 42 clockwise to return the lid buckle 42 to its original position. That is, both the first and second hinge assemblies 40a, 40b may be biased, such as by spring 49 biased, to the closed position. Referring to FIG. 3G, the latch 46 may engage the body hinge pin 43. Via force of the lid 30 moving back to a closed position or operation of the lid buckle 42 back to the open position, the lid 30 can then return to the closed configuration depicted in FIG. 3A, and the lid buckle 42 can move again to the closed position, under spring force, for example. In some embodiments, a leading edge 46-1 of the latch may be angled (such as at an acute angle relate to a vertical or horizontal axis) to allow the latch 46 to slide past the body 20 hinge pin when the lid 30 is moving to the closed position.

[00105] As noted above, in some embodiments both hinge assemblies 40a, 40b may be moved to the open position to allow for complete removal of the lid 30 from the body 20. That is, the lid 30 is removable from the body 20 when the first hinge assembly 40a and the second hinge assembly 40b are moved to the open position. Similar processes for reattaching the lid 30 to the body 20 would be followed as described above for moving the lid 30 to the closed position.

[00106] This dual or double-hinged design may provide increased security to prevent inadvertent opening of the lid 30 and allow a user to open the lid 30 on either side or on both sides 22c, such as to be able to remove the lid 30 completely. The insulated container 10 including the dual hinged design may be particularly suitable for use on transportation vehicles such as automobiles, ships, and aerospace vehicles. The double-hinged door lock system can ensure that the lid 30 will not be bounced open when travel is bumpy, especially when a traffic accident occurs. In addition, the double-hinged door lock system allows the user to open the box door on either one side or both sides 22c to remove the lid according to needs, providing users with an extremely convenient experience. Furthermore, the doublehinged design has high reliability but simple structure and low cost, which can effectively reduce production costs while providing improved functionality.

[00107] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D, the battery 50 (e.g., removable battery 50) mounted to the body 20 is shown in more detail. The battery 50 may be used to power one or more components of the one or more active cooling components (such as a compressor, pump, or the like). The battery 50 is arranged movable relative to the body 20. In other words, the battery 50 can be removed from the body 20. Thus, when the insulated container 10 is not in use or the charging level of the battery 50 is low, the battery 50 can be removed from the insulated container 10 for charging purposes or replacement. In embodiments, battery 50 may have a charging level indicator 56 arranged on a front or visible side (e.g., when mounted to the body 20) of the battery 50. When the battery 50 is removed or otherwise has insufficient charge, the insulated container 10 may be alternatively powered via an outlet such as through a socket(s) 17.

[00108] Still referring to FIGS. 4A-4D, in some embodiments the battery 50 is removably mounted to the exterior wall 22 of the body 20, such as above the cooling component compartment 24. In such embodiments, the battery 50 may be positioned above a vent. In some embodiments, the battery 50, may be removably mounted above to the exterior wall 22 at a position at or above the step 25, described above. In other embodiments, the battery 50 is removably mounted to an exterior wall 22 of the body 20 opposite a vented sidewall, or otherwise positioned on an unvented wall. Accordingly, the battery 50 may be mounted to any portion of the exterior wall 22 including the sidewalls or end walls. The battery 50 may be mounted in a number of ways. For example, the battery 50 may connect to the insulated container 10 via a railing structure, a magnetic element, or the like. For example, the battery 50 may be provided with a rail allowing the battery to slide along the railing structure for inserting the battery into a battery receiving recess 120 of the body 20. Likewise, when removing the battery 50 from the body 20, the battery 50 can slide along the railing structure with the rail. Alternatively or additionally, the battery 50 may be provided with magnet for establishing a magnetic connection between the battery and a batteryreceiving recess 120 or battery holder when inserting the battery into the latter. Likewise, when removing the battery 50 from the body 20, the magnetic connection between the battery 50 and the body 20 can be loosened. Providing the battery-receiving recess 120 with a railing structure respectively a magnetic element simplifies removal from and insertion into the battery holder of the battery.

[00109] In embodiments, the exterior wall 22 of the body 20 defines a batteryreceiving recess 120 or a battery holder may otherwise be coupled to the body 20 for removably receiving the battery 50 therein. The battery 50 may therefore be at least partially embedded within the exterior wall 22. Per the above, the battery-receiving recess 120 may be formed within any portion of the exterior wall 22 including the sidewalls or end walls. In embodiments, the battery-receiving recess 120 may be bulge or embossment that defines a depth, which may be equal to or less than the thickness of the battery. In embodiments, the depth may change along at least one dimension of the battery height. For example, a depth of the battery-receiving recess 120 (in a direction perpendicular to a vertical direction) is deeper at bottom of the battery-receiving recess 120 to define seat for the battery 50 than at a top of the battery-receiving recess 120. The battery 50 is configured to be inserted into the battery receiving recess 120 and removed therefrom. Accordingly, the battery-receiving recess 120 may be substantially shaped to correspond to the shape of the battery 50.

[00110] In embodiments, the battery 50 may include a plurality of ports 52 (e.g., USB, micro-USB, lighting ports, etc.) which may allow the battery 50 to be used as an auxiliary charging device for personal electronics (e.g., phones, computers, tablets, etc.). In embodiments, the battery 50 may include a charging port for charging the battery 50. The various ports 52 may be covered by one or more doors 52a to protect the ports 52 from debris, moisture, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of ports 52 are located on a side of the battery 50, but it is contemplated that the plurality of ports 52 could instead be located on any outward facing surface of the battery 50. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the plurality of ports may be accessible when mounted within the battery-receiving recess 120.

[00111] As best depicted in FIG. 4D, within the battery-receiving recess 120 may be an electrical connector 121 for electrically coupling the battery 50 to the one or more active cooling components to provide electrical energy thereto. For example, the electrical connector 121 may be located at a base sidewall 120a of the battery-receiving recess 120, but could be located along any sidewall or back wall 120b. One or more retainers 122 may be formed on one or more of the sidewalls or back wall 120b for retaining at least a portion of the battery 50. For example, the one or more retainers 122 may be protrusions received within one or more corresponding recesses 53 (depicted in FIG. 5A) formed in the battery 50. For example, in the depicted embodiments, two retainers 122 are formed on the base sidewall 120a on either side of the electrical connector 121. The electrical connector 121 may protrude from the base sidewall 120a and be received within a corresponding electrical connector port (not shown), such the electrical connector 121 becomes nested within the connector port thereby electrically coupling the insulated container 10 with the battery 50.

[00112] In embodiments, the battery 50 may include a strap 54 (e.g., a flexible strap 54 formed of any women or non-woven flexible material). The strap 54 may be located near a top edge of the battery 50 and may be used for pulling the battery 50 from the batteryreceiving recess 120.

[00113] In some embodiments, the insulated container 10 includes a release mechanism 60 operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, wherein the battery 50 is locked in position relative to the exterior wall 22 of the body 20 and an unlocking configuration, wherein the battery 50 is movable relative to the exterior wall 22 of the body 20. In embodiments, the release mechanism 60 includes a locking assembly 62 that is selectively unlockable to release the battery 50 from the body 20, the locking assembly 62 may include an actuator 64 mounted to one of the battery 50 or the body 20. For example, the actuator 64 may be a button, switch, knob, etc. In embodiments, actuation of the locking assembly 62 to an unlocked position allows the battery 50 to be removed from the body 20. Likewise, actuation of the locking assembly 62 to a locked position causes the battery 50 to be locked in place relative to the body 20. For example, when received within the batteryreceiving recess 120, the locking assembly 62 may be engaged with the battery 50 in the locked position within the battery-receiving recess 120.

[00114] Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5C an exemplary locking assembly 62 is depicted. The locking assembly 62 includes a sliding lock 65 having a battery-engagement portion 65a for being removably received within a mating recess 55 formed within the battery 50. For example, the mating recess 55 may be formed within an upward-facing surface of the battery 50 when positioned within the battery-receiving recess 120. In such embodiment, the sliding lock 65 may be moveable in a vertical direction within the exterior wall 22 of the insulated container 10. For example, the sliding lock 65 may be positioned within a guide 108 between an outer surface of the exterior wall 22 and an inner surface of the exterior wall 22, which allows the sliding lock 65 to slide along a vertical direction. The sliding lock 65 may traverse through an edge wall of the battery-receiving recess 120 so as to engage the mating recess 55 formed in an outer surface or housing of the battery 50. However, it contemplated that other directions of movement are contemplated and possible.

[00115] In use, the battery 50 may be inserted into the battery-receiving recess 120, wherein the battery 50 may engage with the one or more retainers 122 (such as via male / female engaging components and / or other cooperating structures), upon rotating inward toward the back wall 120b of the battery-receiving recess 120, the battery 50 may engage with an angled engagement surface 65b of the sliding lock 65. The angled engagement surface 65b may be arranged at some oblique angle relative to the vertical direction. The angle may be tuned to require more or less force when inserting the battery 50 into the battery-receiving recess 120. Engagement of the battery 50 with the angled engagement surface 65b causes the sliding lock 65 to slide upward along the guide 108. As shown in FIG. 5B, the sliding lock 65 may be spring biased, via a spring 109 or other elastic structure, for example, in a downward direction, such than when fully seated within the battery-receiving recess 120, the sliding lock 65 becomes seated within the mating recess 55 formed in the battery 50. Dual engagement between the sliding lock 65 and the one or more retainers 122, locks the battery 50 in place.

[00116] To release the battery 50, the locking assembly 62 of the present embodiment includes a actuator 64 (in the present embodiment a button) which is operable to be depressed to cause the sliding lock 65 to move from the locked position illustrated in FIG. 5C, back to the unlocked position, illustrated in FIG. 5B. For example, the sliding lock 65 may include a second angled surface engaged with a portion of the button. Again, second angled surface may be arranged at some oblique angle relative to the vertical direction. The angle may be tuned to require more or less force to actuate the button. As illustrated in FIG. 5D and 5E, pressing the button moves the sliding lock 65 back up to the unlocked position, thereby releasing the battery 50. In the depicted embodiment, the battery 50 is positioned above the battery-receiving recess 120, but may be positioned anywhere the sliding lock 65 is positioned. For example, it is contemplated that instead of moving in the vertical direction, the sliding lock 65 may move in a lateral direction.

[00117] FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate an alternative locking assembly 62, including a rotational lock 106 mounted directly to the battery 50. Example, the rotational lock 106 may include a knob 106a directly mounted to the battery 50 which may be moved between a locked position shown in FIG. 6A and an unlocked position, shown in FIG 6B. In the locked position, first and second wings 106b, 106c extend from the battery 50, which would engage corresponding recesses within the battery-receiving recess 120. Accordingly, to lock the battery 50 in place, a user would simply twist the knob 106a to extend the wings 106b, 106c. The knob 106a could then be twisted to the unlocked position to retract the wings 106b, 106c for battery 50 removal.

[00118] FIG. 7A and 7B illustrate another embodiment of a battery 50 for being releaseably held within a battery-receiving recess 120 of an insulated container 10. In the present embodiment, the battery 50 holder includes retaining members 122 protruding from opposing edge walls within the battery-receiving recess 120. In the depicted embodiment, opposing mating recesses may be formed on either edge of the battery 50 to receive the retaining members 122. The opposing mating recesses 55 may taper to provide improved guiding of the retaining members 122 into the opposing mating recesses 55.

[00119] In addition to or in lieu of the retaining members, a fastening element for fastening the battery 50 into the battery-receiving recess 120 may be included with the battery 50. In particular, the battery 50 may be fastened by the fastening element when fully retracted or seated into the battery-receiving recess 120. It is contemplated that the fastening element may be a snap-fit element, a clamping element, or the like. For example, a snap-fit element may include a lever portion hingedly coupled to the back wall 120b of the batteryreceiving recess 120 and a hook portion formed correspondingly to the lever portion on the battery 50 or vice versa. For removing the battery 50 from the battery-receiving recess 120, the lever portion is rotated towards the hook portion, e.g., the battery 50 is fastened into the battery-receiving recess 120. The snap-fit element enables a quick and easy fastening of the battery 50 inside the battery-receiving recess 120.

[00120] Further alternatively, and as depicted the fastening means may include a block 130 formed on and extending from the back wall 120b of the battery-receiving recess 120. A corresponding block-receiving recess 58 may be formed on a back surface of the battery 50. In use, the block 130 may be received within the block-receiving recess 58, and when fully seated may prevent outward movement of the battery 50 from the battery-receiving recess 120 via one of more flanges 58a which extend over the block 130 when fully seated.

[00121] For example, FIG. 8A-8C illustrate assembly of the battery 50 to the batteryreceiving recess 120. As depicted, block 130 enters the block-receiving recess 58 formed in the battery 50. The battery 50 is then slid downward, which may also cause, if present, the retaining members 122 to become seated in opposing mating recesses 55. As the battery 50 slides downward, the block 130 becomes trapped by the one or more flanges 58a, thereby preventing movement in a non-vertical direction. To remove the battery 50, the battery 50 may be slid upward, such as by pulling on the strap 54, until the block 130 comes free from the one or more flanges 58a. Some embodiments, may include pressing or rotating an actuator as described above to release the battery 50.

[00122] In any of the embodiments above, the retaining members 122 may instead be magnets which magnetically couple to corresponding elements on the battery 50.

[00123] In one variant, the battery 50 includes a connecting portion 51 for connecting to the electrical connector. In embodiments, the connecting portion 51 may be formed with an essentially flat outer surface. Accordingly, the connecting portion 51 may only slightly protrude from a surface of the battery 50 on which it is arranged. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 51 may not protrude at all, such as wherein the electrical connector protrudes, as depicted above.

[00124] For providing the motor with electrical energy, the connecting portion 51 is configured to be brought into contact with a corresponding electrical connector 121 of the insulated container 10. In the present embodiment, the electrical connector 121 is also formed with an essentially flat surface such that the connection area only slightly protrudes from the surface of the body 20 on which it is arranged. When the battery 50 is in an operating state (i.e., powering the electrically driven cooling components or motor of the insulated container 10), the connecting portion 51 and the electrical connector 121 are brought into contact with each other such that the battery 50 provides an electrical voltage that is high enough to enable a current flow between the battery 50 and the electrical components. In particularly, due to the flat surfaces of the connecting portion 51 and the electrical connector 121 are not required to protrude into one another. Accordingly, no electrical pins are needed for energy transfer. In some embodiments, electrical pins are used.

[00125] In some embodiments, the connecting portion of the battery 50 may be at least partly covered by a cover element, not shown, when the battery 50 is removed from the body 20. The connecting portion 51 of the battery 50 is at least partly uncovered by the cover element when the battery 50 is inserted into the battery-receiving recess 120. The cover element may be, for example, a movable membrane. However, embodiments are not limited to a membrane.

[00126] In embodiments including a membrane, the membrane can be moved relative to an insertion direction, such as upwards or downwards. By moving the membrane upward, the connecting portion 51 of the battery 50 is covered. Likewise, by moving the membrane downward, the connecting portion 51 of the battery 50 is uncovered. In embodiments, the cover element can be moved manually by the user or automatically. In the latter case, the cover element is operatively coupled with the battery-receiving recess 120 such that insertion of the battery 50 into the battery-receiving recess 120 moves the membrane to uncover the connecting portion. Similarly removal of the battery 50 from the battery-receiving recess 120 moves the membrane to cover the connecting portion 51. The cover element may protect the connecting portion of the battery 50 from humidity and dust when the battery 50 is removed from the body 20. The electrical connector 121 may likewise by covered by a cover element with similar benefits.

[00127] Referring now to FIGS. 9A-10 an insulated container 10 is depicted in isolation without the lid 30. The insulated container 10 is substantially similar to the embodiments described above. It is noted that the lid 30 as described above, may be used with the depicted insulated container 10, though other lids are contemplated and possible. In the present embodiment, within the storage volume 21 may be one or more components such as one or more baskets 150, a divider 200, and / or an ice maker 350. A greater or fewer number of components may be positioned within the storage volume 21 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[00128] The divider 200 may be positioned within the storage volume 21 to divide the storage volume 21 into a first storage zone 21a and a second storage zone 21b. In particular, the divider 200 may be slid in vertically to divide the storage volume 21. For example, guides may be positioned within the storage volume 21 to position the divider 200 within the storage volume 21. The divider 200 may be formed from an insulating material such as noted above and may be formed via similar methods and / or materials as the body 20 and / or the lid 30. Accordingly, the divider 200 may allow the first storage zone 21a and the second storage zone 21b to be maintained at separate temperatures. For example, the first storage zone 21a may be kept at a temperature above freezing, such as between or including about 34 F and 40 F. The second storage zone may be kept at a temperature at or below freezing, such as 33 F or lower. In embodiments, the divider 200 may be positioned on the step 25 of the stepped interior to divide the storage volume 21 into the first storage zone 21a and the second storage zone 21b. In embodiments, of the body 20 may define a receiving portion, such as a channel for receiving the divider 200. The receiving portion may be configured to fasten the divider 200 on the inside the insulated container 10. The receiving portion may be configured to receive the divider 200 so as to be sealed air-tight and / or waterproof against the rest of the interior of the insulated container 200. The receiving portion enables the user to form a separate compartment, such as a freezer compartment, simply and reliably inside the insulated container 10. The divider is illustrated as a rectangular substrate but may have any suitable shape for dividing the storage volume 21 into a first storage zone 21a and a second storage zone 21b.

[00129] In embodiment, pivotally coupled to the divider 200 may be a cover portion 210, such as via a hinge. The cover portion 210 may act as a cover for one of the first storage zone 21a and the second storage zone 21b. For example, wherein one storage zone is operated at freezing temperatures, the cover may act as a freezer cover and act to define a freezer compartment within the insulated container 10. The cover portion 210 may also be formed of insulative materials to assist in maintaining a temperature of the freezer compartment. In embodiments, the cover portion 210 may be formed of a transparent material such that the contents of the freezer compartment can be viewed when the lid 30 of the insulated container 10 is open, and the cover is closed. The cover portion may include a handle portion which may be used to open and cover portion 210 and access the freezer compartment.

[00130] In embodiments, a basket 150, such as a wire basket may be positioned within in of the first storage portion 21a and the second storage portion 21b. The baskets 150 may be sized to correspond to the size of the first storage portion 21a and the second storage portion 21b respectively while providing space in-between for the divider 200 to be inserted. That is the divider 200 may be inserted vertically between the baskets 150. The cover portion 210 may be allowed to pivot or fold, such as to enclose the second storage portion 21b. In embodiments, such as best illustrated in FIG. 12A, the exterior wall 22 may have an internal surface which defines a lip 14, which the cover portion 210 may rest on, so as to be recessed relative when closed, thereby allowing the lid 30 to close. In embodiments, the baskets 150 may be casings configured to store goods, for example food or beverages, inside the insulated container 20 and to keep the goods at a given temperature. Two adjacent outer walls of the baskets 150 may be positioned so as to correspond (or be arranged adjacent to) to outer walls of the divider 200. Thus, the divider 200 may be inserted between the side walls of the baskets 150, which may assist in defining the receiving portion. Accordingly, the divider 200 can be removed from the receiving portion formed between the side walls of the baskets if no separate zones are desired. The cover portion 210 offers the user of the insulated container 200 a quick and easy way to provide the insulated container with a separate zones (e.g., one for freezing and one for refrigeration, for example).

[00131] Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the insulated container 10 may include an ice maker 160 which may be removably placed within the first storage portion 21a or the second storage portion 21b acting as a freezer portion. For example, the ice maker 160 may be removable placed on the floor of either the first storage zone 21a or the second storage zone 21b. In embodiments, an evaporator (not shown) may be beneath the floor of the respective storage zone for providing sufficient cooling power for freezing goods.

[00132] Referring now to FIG. 11, a system 300 for controlling a temperature of the insulated container 10 is schematically depicted. The system 300 may include a communication path 302, a controller 302 a processor 303, a memory 304, a sensor 305, a first cooling circuit 306a, a second cooling circuit 306b, a user input device 308, and / or a display 310. The system 300 may include a greater or fewer number of components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[00133] The communication path 301 that provides data interconnectivity between various modules disposed within the system 300. Specifically, each of the modules can operate as a node that may send and / or receive data. In some embodiments, the communication path 301 includes a conductive material that permits the transmission of electrical data signals to processors, memories, sensors, cooling circuits, user input devices, and / or displays throughout the system 300 as part of the insulated container 10. The communication path 301 may be wireless and / or an optical waveguide. Components that are communicatively coupled may include components capable of exchanging data signals with one another such as, for example, electrical signals via conductive medium, electromagnetic signals via air, optical signals via optical waveguides, and the like.

[00134] The controller 302 may include any number of processors 303 and or memories 304 which store logic, that when executed by the processor allow the controller to control operation of the insulated container 10. The processor 303 may include any device capable of executing machine-readable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Accordingly, each processor 303 may include an integrated circuit, a microchip, a computer, and / or any other computing device. It is noted that the one or more processors 303 may reside within the insulated container 10 and / or external to the insulated container 10.

[00135] The memory 304 is communicatively coupled to the processor 303 over the communication path 301. The memory may be configured as volatile and / or nonvolatile memory and, as such, may include random access memory (including SRAM, DRAM, and / or other types of RAM), flash memory, secure digital (SD) memory, registers, compact discs (CD), digital versatile discs (DVD), and / or other types of non-transitory computer-readable mediums. Depending on the particular embodiment, these non-transitory computer-readable mediums may reside within the insulated container 10 or external to the insulated container 10. The memory 304 may be configured to store one or more pieces of logic, as described in more detail below. The embodiments described herein may utilize a distributed computing arrangement to perform any portion of the logic described herein.

[00136] Embodiments of the present disclosure include logic stored on the memory that includes machine-readable instructions and / or an algorithm written in any programming language of any generation (e.g., 1GL, 2GL, 3GL, 4GL, and / or 5GL) such as, machine language that may be directly executed by the processor 403, assembly language, obstacle-oriented programming (OOP), scripting languages, microcode, etc., that may be compiled or assembled into machine readable instructions and stored on a machine readable medium. Similarly, the logic and / or algorithm may be written in a hardware description language (HDL), such as logic implemented via either a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) configuration or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and their equivalents. Accordingly, the logic may be implemented in any conventional computer programming language, as pre-programmed hardware elements, and / or as a combination of hardware and software components. As will be described in greater detail herein, logic stored on the memory allows the controller 302 to, for example, determine whether the divider 200 is positioned within the storage volume 21 based on a signal from the sensor 305, adjust the display 310 to depict a first temperature control where the divider 200 is positioned within the storage volume 21, and adjust the display 310 to depict a second temperature control when the divider 200 is not positioned within the storage volume 21. Further embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for temperatures to be individually adjusted for each storage zone when the divider 200 is in place.

[00137] The sensor 305 may include any sensor operable to detect if the divider 200 is positioned within the storage volume 21. In particular, to detect if the divider 200 is positioned in the storage volume 21 in such a way as to divider 200 the storage volume 21 into the first storage zone 21a and the second storage zone 21b. For example, the sensor 305 may include any optical sensor (e.g., cameras, lasers, etc.), proximity sensor, IR sensor, RFID sensor, magnetic sensor, or the like. As a particular example, and as depicted in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a magnet 305a (e.g., permanent magnet) may be mounted to the divider 200, and a Hall or Reed sensor 305b may be mounted to the step 25, such as within a liner. When in position the Hall or Reed sensor 305b would output a signal indicative of the divider 200 being positioned to divide the storage volume 21 into the first storage zone 21a and the second storage zone 21b.

[00138] Based on the signal from the sensor 305, the processor 303 may adjust the display 310 to indicate one storage zone or two storage zones. For example FIG. 13A provides an example display 310 illustrating an embodiment where the divider 200 is not detected by the sensor 305. FIG. 13B illustrates, the sensor 305 detecting the divider 200 is in place, and displays on the display 310 an indictor 310a depicting the divider 200 is in place. FIG. 14A and 14B provide another embodiment, wherein in 14A, the controller 302 determines the divider 200 is in place and depicts two temperatures 310a-l, 310a-2, which may be adjusted by the user using a user input device 308 (e.g., buttons, toggles, knobs, a touch screen, etc.). FIG. 14B depicts that there is only a single zone as no divider 200 has been detected. Accordingly, only one temperature 310a-l is displayed and is adjustable.

[00139] In embodiments, as noted above, the insulated container 10 may have two cooling circuits 306a, 306b, which may include at least some separate active cooling components 12, which may be separately controlled. Accordingly, a user may be able, using the user input device 308, to separately adjust the temperature of each zone. In some embodiments, logic stored in the memory 304 may automatically limit temperature adjustments when the divider 200 is in place. For example, without the divider 200 in position, such interior volume 21 is a single zone, the temperature may be set to any desired temperature, such as, but not limited to -22 C to 10C. In embodiments where the divider 200 is in position so as to define the first zone 21a and the second zone 21b, the controller 300 may operate to limit a temperature differential between the first zone 21a and the second zone 21b. For example, it may be beneficial to the limit temperature differential between the first zone 21a and the second zone 21b by a certain amount to limit effect of the temperature within one zone affecting the temperature in the other zone. For example, the first and second zones 21a, 21b may have temperature adjustment limits so that the temperatures of the two zones remain within a predetermined temperature differential, such as within 20 C, such as within 15C, though other temperature differentials are contemplated. For example, the temperature within the first zone 21a may be set to -22C and the temperature within the second zone 21b may be set to -7C where the temperature differential is limited to 14C, though other differentials are contemplated and possible. Accordingly, the controller 300 may be operated to prevent user inputs from adjusting the set temperatures within each zone from being outside the predetermined range.

[00140] Referring now to FIGS. 15-16B, in embodiments, the insulated container 10, may be equipped with a handle bar assembly 70 mounted to the body 20 and configured to telescope relative to the body 20 between a retracted position and extended position. In embodiments, the handlebar assembly include a U-shaped handle assembly that includes a gripping portion 72, which may be gripped by a user, a first telescoping leg 74a, and a second telescoping leg 74b.

[00141] The gripping portion 72 may have a smooth surface with rounded edges such that the user can easily grip and push or respectively pull the gripping portion 72. In some embodiments, the gripping portion 72 may include a release button 76. When actuating the release button 76, the gripping portion 72 can be gripped and extracted from its rest position, depicted in FIG. 15 and 16A, to an operation position, depicted in FIG. 15 and 16B. In the operation position, the insulated container 10 can be moved via the wheels 80, when pulling or respectively pushing on the handle bar assembly 70.

[00142] In embodiments, the battery 50 may be mounted to a first exterior wall and the handle bar assembly 70, such as the gripping portion, may cross the exterior wall 22 that includes the battery 50. In other embodiments, the handle bar assembly 70, such as the gripping portion, may cross an opposite exterior wall (e.g., end wall or sidewall) to the exterior wall that includes the battery 50.

[00143] In embodiments, the first telescoping leg 74a may be slidingly received within a first sleeve 77a mounted on a first side of the body 20 and the second telescoping leg 74b may be slidingly received within the second sleeve 77b mounted on a second side of the body 20 opposite the first sleeve 77a. When release is actuated via the release button 76, the first telescoping leg 74a and the second telescoping leg 74b may slide relative to the first sleeve 77a and the second sleeve 77b.

[00144] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-19C, a tray 90, which may be configured to be stored within a tray-receiving recess 95 formed within the lid 30 such as depicted in FIGS. 10A-19C, may be removably mounted to the handle bar assembly 70 when in the extended position. For example, as depicted in FIG. 18 the tray 90 may include a plurality of magnets 91, which may be embedded within a tray body. The magnets 91 may be permanent magnets, for example, and may be positioned within the tray 90 to magnetically couple to the first telescoping leg 74a and the second telescoping leg 74b. In some embodiments, the magnets 91 may additionally or separately allow the tray 90 to be mounted within the tray-receiving recess 95 of the lid 30.

[00145] In embodiments that are particularly depicted in FIG. 19A-19C, the lid 30 may include one or more retainers 96 (e.g., projections, flanges, or the like), which extend into the tray-receiving recess. The tray may define mating apertures 92, which receive the one or more retainers 96 to allow the tray 90 to be placed in a first position within the tray-receiving recess as depicted in FIG. 19A. The tray 90 is slidable from the first position to a second position, depicted in FIG. 19B and 19C, wherein the one or more retainers 96 are positioned within a mating recess 97 formed within the tray 90 to thereby hold the tray 90 within the tray-receiving recess 95. That is, when slid to the second position, the one or more retainers 96 overlap a portion of the tray 90 to hold the tray 90 in place within the lid 30, as the lid 30 or the insulated container 10 are moved. A mating recess 97 may be positioned at various positions of the tray 90. For example, mating recesses 97 may be positioned so as to be part of the mating apertures 92, such a directly adjacent, and / or may be positioned so as to be spaced from the mating apertures 92. For example, in the depicted embodiment, mating recesses 97 are positioned at each comer and directly adjacent each mating aperture 92, though other arrangements are contemplated and possible. It is noted that in the depicted embodiment, two opposing lateral sides of the tray 90 include two mating recesses 97 and four mating apertures. The arrangement allows the tray 90 to be placed within the trayreceiving recess 95 in a reversible manner. In embodiments, and handle portion 99 may be formed within the tray 90, such as along each longitudinal sides (arranged between lateral of the tray 90). For example, the handle portion 99 may include a recessed area (e.g., recessed from an outer edge of the tray 90) which allows a use to grasp the tray 30 when in a stowed in the lid 30. When stowed, the tray 90 may extend over the step 25. Other retaining means, e.g., straps, hooks, etc., are contemplated and possible.

[00146] Referring now to FIG. 20A - 21C, an insulated container 10’ is depicted. The insulated container 10’ may be substantially similar to the insulated container 10 described above. Accordingly, the above description is applicable to the insulated container 10’ unless otherwise noted or apparent. In particular, the insulated container 10’ includes a body 20’ and a lid 30’. However, in the current embodiment, instead of the body 20’ including wheels 80, a trolley 400 is included that has wheels 80’. Additionally, instead of a handle bar assembly being able to telescope in a non-vertical direction as illustrated in embodiments above, the insulated container 10 includes a vertically telescoping handle bar assembly 70’. Furthermore, though the battery 50 could otherwise be mounted to the body 20 as described above, in the present embodiment, the trolley 400 includes a battery holster 410.

[00147] Referring to FIG. 21A-21E, the trolley 400 includes a trolley base 402 for receiving the body 20’. Wheels 80’ may be coupled to the trolley base 402 to allow from wheeled movement of the trolley base 402. In embodiments, the trolley base 402 may include a gasket 406 to cover the transition between the body 20 and the trolley base. In embodiments, tabs 406a from the gasket 406 may engage corresponding apertures within the trolley base to hold the gasket 406 in place.

[00148] The handle bar assembly 70’ may be coupled to the trolley base 402. For example, and with reference to FIGS. 21C and 2ID, a bracket assembly 408 may couple a first sleeve 77a’ and a second sleeve 77b’ of the handle bar assembly 70’ to the trolley base 402. Similar to embodiments above, the handle bar assembly 70’ includes a U-shaped handle assembly including a first telescoping leg 74a’, a second telescoping leg 74b’, and the gripping portion 72’. In the present embodiment, the first telescoping leg 74a’ and the second telescoping leg 74b’ may be slidingly received within the first sleeve 77a’ and the second sleeve 77b’ respectively. The sleeves 77a’, 77b’ may extend within the battery holster 410, to allow the first telescoping leg 74a’ and the second telescoping leg 74b’ to extend therethrough and to allow the handle bar assembly 70’ to telescope vertically.

[00149] Still review to FIGS. 21C and 21D, one or more support brackets 409 may be positioned within the trolley base 402 to provide support to body 20 when positioned therein. For example, a support bracket 409 may be mounted adjacent to each bracket assembly 408 and include a support tab 409a for receiving and supporting the body 20. In some embodiments, the trolley base 402 may include a platform 407 for supporting the body 20.

[00150] The battery holster 410 is coupled to the telescoping handle assembly 70’ as described above and generally defines a battery-receiving recess 120’ substantially as described above, However, in the present embodiment, the battery-receiving recess 120 may not include an integrated electrical connection to the one or more active cooling components as described above, but may instead include a corded communication line 404 for providing electricity from the battery 50 to the one or more active cooling components. In embodiments, the battery 50 holster may be mounted to the body 20 such as via fasteners as illustrated in FIG. 2D which may assist in maintaining the body 20 in position on the trolley base 402. In some embodiment, pre-embedded brackets may be positioned within the exterior wall 22 of the cooler to facilitate coupling. In addition to or in lieu of the fasteners, a tether 412 (such as an elastomer belt, or other type material) may extend through one or more handles 416 of the insulated container 10’ and attached to the trolley base 402, such as via a hook on either end of the tether 412, best illustrated in FIG. 2C.

[00151] The battery holster 410 may include a release mechanism 60’ operable to be actuated between a locking configuration and an unlocking confirmation similar to that described above. For example, battery holster 410 may include a locking assembly that includes a sliding lock and an actuator such as described above. The battery 50 may be substantially identical to the battery 50 depicted and described above. For example the battery 50 may include a pull strap 54 as described above. The trolley design may provide improved moveability and smaller lateral footprint.

[00152] In any of the embodiments described herein, the insulated container 20 may be a cooler, refrigerated, such as a vehicle refrigerator or a movable refrigerator.

[00153] Embodiments may be further described with respect to the following numbered clauses:

[00154] 1. A insulated container comprising: a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; and a lid pivotally coupled to the body by a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly, wherein: the first hinge assembly pivotally couples the lid to the body at a position opposite the second hinge assembly; the first hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a first open position in a first direction; and the second hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a second open position in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[00155] 2. The insulated container of clause 1, wherein: the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components; the exterior wall of the body defining the cooling component compartment is vented; and the first hinge assembly is located on a first vented wall when mounting the lid to the body.

[00156] 3 The insulated container of clause 2, wherein the second hinge assembly is located on a second vented wall when mounting the lid to the body.

[00157] 4. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the first and second hinge assemblies comprise: a lid buckle pivotally mounted to the lid via a lid hinge pin, the lid buckle having a latch; a pivot cradle mounted to the lid adjacent the lid buckle; a body hinge pin mounted to the body, wherein: in a closed position, the pivot cradle receives the body hinge pin and the latch latches onto the body hinge pin; and in an open position, the lid buckle is pivoted about the lid hinge pin to unlatch the latch from the body hinge pin.

[00158] 5. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the lid is pivotable about the body hinge pin of the first hinge assembly when the first hinge assembly is in the closed position and the second hinge assembly is moved to the open position; and the lid is pivotable about the body hinge pin of the second hinge assembly when the second hinge assembly is in the closed position and the first hinge assembly is moved to the open position.

[00159] 6. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the lid is removable from the body when the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly are moved to the open position.

[00160] 7. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the first and second hinge assemblies are biased to the closed position.

[00161] 8. The insulated container of any preceding clause, further comprising a battery removably mounted to a sidewall of the body, wherein the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly are mounted to different sidewalls than the removable battery.

[00162] 9. The insulated container of any preceding clause, a release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to an exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

[00163] 10. A insulated container comprising: a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume; a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components; and a release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

[00164] 11. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components.

[00165] 12. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the battery is removably mounted to the exterior wall of the body above the cooling component compartment.

[00166] 13. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: one or more side walls of the body defining the cooling component compartment comprise vents; and the battery is removably mounted to the exterior wall of the body opposite a vented sidewall.

[00167] 14. The insulated container of any preceding clause, comprising a stepped interior within the storage volume and the cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the battery is partially embedded within the exterior wall above the step.

[00168] 15. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the release mechanism includes a locking assembly is selectively unlockable to release the battery from the body, the locking assembly comprises an actuator mounted to one of the battery or the body, wherein: actuation of the locking assembly to an unlocked position allows the battery to be removed from the body; and actuation of the locking assembly to an locked position causes the battery to be locked in place relative to the body.

[00169] 16. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the exterior wall of the body defines a battery-receiving recess for removably receiving the battery therein and the locking assembly is engaged with the battery in the locked position within the batteryreceiving recess.

[00170] 17. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the locking assembly comprises: a sliding lock having a battery-engagement portion for being removably receiving within a mating recess formed within the battery; and a button, wherein pushing the button causes the sliding lock to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[00171] 18. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the sliding lock is spring biasing to the locked position.

[00172] 19. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the exterior wall of the body defines a battery-receiving recess for removeably receiving the battery therein; the sliding lock actuates through an edge wall of the battery-receiving recess; and the button is positioned within the exterior wall above the battery-receiving recess.

[00173] 20. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the battery comprises a pull strap for removing the battery from the exterior wall of the body.

[00174] 21. A insulated container comprising: a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; and a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume, the lid defining a tray-receiving recess; a handle bar assembly mounted to the body and configured to telescope relative to the body between a retracted position and an extended position; and a tray configured to be stored within the tray-receiving recess and, when removed from the tray-receiving recess, configured to be removably mounted to the handle bar assembly when in the extended position.

[00175] 22. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components at a first side of the body; and the handle bar assembly is mounted to the body and telescopes to the extended position from a second side of the body away from the first side.

[00176] 23. The insulated container of any preceding clause, further comprising a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components, wherein the handle bar assembly crosses the exterior wall that includes the battery.

[00177] 24. The insulated container of any preceding clause, further comprising: a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components, wherein the handle bar assembly crosses an opposite exterior wall to the exterior wall that includes the battery; and a release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

[00178] 25. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the handle bar assembly comprises: a first sleeve mounted on a first side of the body; a second sleeve mounted on a second side of the body opposite the first sleeve; and a U-shaped handle assembly slidingly received within the first sleeve and the second sleeve, the U-shaped handle assembly including a first telescoping leg slidingly received in the first sleeve, a second telescoping leg slidingly received in the second telescoping leg, and a gripping portion extending between the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg.

[00179] 26. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the tray is magnetically mountable to the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg via a plurality of magnets.

[00180] 27. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the lid comprises one or more retainers which extend into the tray-receiving recess; the tray defines mating apertures, which receive the one or more retainers to allow the tray to be placed in a first position within the tray-receiving recess; and the tray is slidable from the first position to a second position, wherein the one or more retainers are positioned within a mating recess formed within the tray and thereby hold the tray within the tray-receiving recess.

[00181] 28. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components at a first side of the body; the insulated container comprises a stepped interior within the storage volume; and the cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the tray, when stowed in the lid, extends over the step.

[00182] 29. A insulated container comprising: a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume, the lid defining a tray-receiving recess; a divider configured to be positioned within the storage volume; a sensor for outputting a signal indicative of the divider being positioned within the storage volume; a display; and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the display, wherein the controller is configured to: determine whether the divider is positioned within the storage volume based on the signal from the sensor; adjust the display to depict a first temperature control where the divider is positioned within the storage volume; and adjust the display to depict a second temperature control when the divider is not positioned within the storage volume.

[00183] 30. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the one or more active cooling components include a first cooling circuit corresponding to a first storage zone and a second cooling circuit corresponding to a second storage zone, the first storage zone and the second storage zone separated from one another with the divider when the divider is positioned within the storage volume.

[00184] 31. The insulated container of any preceding clause, further comprising a user input device communicatively coupled to the controller and operable to separately adjust a temperature of the first storage zone and the second storage zone.

[00185] 32. The insulated container of any preceding clause, further comprising: a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components; and a release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

[00186] 33. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing at least a portion of the one or more active cooling components; and the insulated container comprises a stepped interior within the storage volume and the cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the divider sits on the step when positioned within the storage volume.

[00187] 34. A insulated container assembly comprising: an insulated container comprising: a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; and a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume; a trolley coupled to the body of the insulated container, the trolley comprising: a trolley base for receiving the body; a telescoping handle assembly, the telescoping handle assembly extending generally vertically from the body so as to be extendable past the lid of the insulated container; and a battery holster coupled to the telescoping handle assembly for receiving a battery for powering the one or more active cooling components.

[00188] 35. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the telescoping handle assembly comprises a first telescoping leg and a second telescoping leg; and the battery holster is mounted between the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg.

[00189] 36. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the battery holster defines a battery-receiving recess for receiving the battery.

[00190] 37. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the battery holster comprises a locking assembly that comprises: a sliding lock having a batteryengagement portion for being removably received within a mating recess formed within the battery; and a button, wherein pushing the button causes the sliding lock to move from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[00191] 38. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the sliding lock is spring biased to the locked position.

[00192] 39. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein: the battery holster defines a battery-receiving recess for receiving the battery; the sliding lock actuates through an edge wall of the battery-receiving recess; and the button is positioned above the battery-receiving recess.

[00193] 40. The insulated container of any preceding clause, wherein the battery comprises a pull strap for removing the battery from the battery-receiving recess upon actuating the sliding lock to the unlocked position. It should be understood that embodiments as described herein are directed to insulated containers which include features, which may be combined in any manner, which may improve, utility, functionality, moveability, and the like.

[00194] 41. A box with a double-hinged door lock system, wherein the box includes a box door, a box body, and a first hinge door lock system and a second hinge door lock system arranged on opposite sides of the box body, characterized in that, the first hinge door lock system includes a first part located on the box door and a second part corresponding to it and located on the box body, the first part includes a first hinge card seat, a second hinge card seat and a door catch located between the first hinge card seat and the second hinge card seat, wherein the door catch is rotatably arranged in a door catch accommodating space on one side of the box door, the first hinge card seat and the second hinge card seat are each independently connected to the box door through an upper surface and have a concave lower surface, wherein the door catch has a door catch body and a first pawl and a second pawl arranged in sequence along the longitudinal direction of the door catch body, the first pawl and The second pawls each have a vertical portion and a horizontal portion, the horizontal portion having a concave upper surface, and the second portion includes a first hinge shaft and a second hinge shaft respectively fixed to two opposite side walls of the door lock accommodating space of the box body, wherein the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft are coaxially arranged, when the box door is in a closed state, the concave lower surfaces of the first hinge seat and the second hinge seat respectively engage the upper surfaces of the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft, and the concave upper surfaces of the horizontal portions of the first pawl and the second pawl respectively engage the lower surfaces of the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft to lock the box door, when the box door is opened, the rotation of the door buckle causes the horizontal portions of the first pawl and the second pawl to respectively disengage from the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft to allow the box door to be opened.

[00195] 42. The box according to any preceding clause, is characterized in that the horizontal parts of the first pawl and the second pawl have an inclined lower surface arranged at an acute angle relative to the vertical part.

[00196] 43. The box according to any preceding clause is characterized in that the door buckle is rotatably connected to the two side walls of the door buckle accommodating space at both ends through a pivot axis.

[00197] 44. The box according to any preceding clause is characterized in that an elastic structure is provided between the door buckle body and the inner side wall of the door buckle accommodating space to provide a restoring force for the door buckle to reset.

[00198] 45. The box according to claused 4 is characterized in that the elastic structure is a spring.

[00199] 46. The box according to any preceding clause is characterized in that the first pawl and the second pawl are respectively located at the two ends of the door buckle body.

[00200] 47. The box according to any preceding clause is characterized in that the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis are different parts of the same hinge axis.

[00201] 48. The box according to any preceding clause is characterized in that the structure of the second hinge door lock system is the same as the structure of the first hinge door lock system.

[00202] 49. The box according to clause 48 is characterized in that the box is a refrigerator.

[00203] 50. The box according to clause 49 is characterized in that the refrigerator is a movable refrigerator.

[00204] 51. The box according to clause 49 or 50 is characterized in that the refrigerator is a car refrigerator.

[00205] 52. A mobile cooling box having a box main body and at least one lid for opening the box and providing access to the interior of the mobile cooling box, wherein the mobile cooling box is equipped with wheels for moving the mobile cooling box, the mobile cooling box comprising: a battery for powering the mobile cooling box; and / or a freezer cover for delimiting a freezer compartment inside the mobile cooling box; and / or a handlebar intended to be grasped by a user, characterized in that the battery, the freezer cover and / or the handlebar is arranged movably relative to the box main body on the mobile cooling box.

[00206] 53. The mobile cooling box according to any preceding clause, characterized in that the battery can be removably inserted into a battery holder of the box main body.

[00207] 54. The mobile cooling box according to clause 52, characterized in that the battery holder comprises a holding element for holding the battery, the holding element being one of a railing structure or a magnetic element.

[00208] 55. The mobile cooling box according to any preceding clause, characterized in that the battery holder comprises a fastening element for fastening the battery inside the battery holder relative to the box main body, the fastening element being one of a snap-fit element or a clamping element.

[00209] 56. The mobile cooling box according to any of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the battery comprises a connecting portion for electrically connecting the battery to an electrical circuit of the mobile cooling box, the connecting portion being configured to be brought into contact with a corresponding connection area of the electrical circuit.

[00210] 57. The mobile cooling box according to clause 56, characterized in that the connecting portion is brought into contact with the connection area such that the connecting portion (15) does not protrude into the connection area and vice versa.

[00211] 58. The mobile cooling box according to clauses 56 or 57, characterized in that the connecting portion of the battery is at least partly covered by a cover element when the battery is removed from the box main body.

[00212] 59. The mobile cooling box according to any one of clauses 56 to 58, characterized in that the connecting portion of the battery is at least partly uncovered by the cover element when the battery is inserted into the box main body.

[00213] 60. The mobile cooling box according to any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the freezer cover comprises a cover portion and at least one side portion movably hinged to the cover portion, the freezer compartment being delimited by interior walls of the mobile cooling box, the cover portion and at least one of the side portions of the freezer cover.

[00214] 61. The mobile cooling box according to clause 60, characterized in that the interior of the mobile cooling box comprises a receiving portion for receiving the at least one side portion of the freezer cover to form the freezer compartment.

[00215] 62. The mobile cooling box according to clause 61, characterized in that the receiving portion is formed between two cooling compartments inside the mobile cooling box.

[00216] 63. The mobile cooling box according to any of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the handlebar comprises a gripping portion intended to be gripped by the user and a movable portion configured to move relative to the box main body.

[00217] 64 The mobile cooling box according to clause 63, characterized in that the movable portion is configured to extend and / or retract relative to the box main body.

[00218] 65. A method for operating the mobile cooling box of any one of the preceding clauses, the method being characterized by the steps of removably inserting the battery into the battery holder relative to the box main body and bringing the connecting portion into contact with the connection area to provide the mobile cooling box with electrical power; and / or inserting the at least one side portion of the freezer cover into the receiving portion of the interior of the box main body to delimit the freezer compartment; and / or extending the movable portion of the handlebar relative to the box main body to enable a user to grip the gripping portion for moving the mobile cooling box.

[00219] It is noted that the terms "substantially" and "about" may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[00220] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. An insulated container comprising:a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; anda lid pivotally coupled to the body by a first hinge assembly and a second hinge assembly, wherein:the first hinge assembly pivotally couples the lid to the body at a position oppositethe second hinge assembly;the first hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a first open position in a first direction; andthe second hinge assembly allows the lid to pivot to a second open position in a second direction opposite the first direction.

2. The insulated container of claim 1, wherein:the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components;the exterior wall of the body defining the cooling component compartment is vented; and the first hinge assembly is located on a first vented wall when mounting the lid to the body.

3. The insulated container of claim 2, wherein the second hinge assembly is located on a second vented wall when mounting the lid to the body.

4. The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the first and second hinge assemblies comprise: a lid buckle pivotally mounted to the lid via a lid hinge pin, the lid buckle having alatch;a pivot cradle mounted to the lid adjacent the lid buckle;a body hinge pin mounted to the body, wherein:in a closed position, the pivot cradle receives the body hinge pin and the latch latches onto the body hinge pin; andin an open position, the lid buckle is pivoted about the lid hinge pin to unlatch the latch from the body hinge pin.

5. The insulated container of claim 4, wherein:the lid is pivotable about the body hinge pin of the first hinge assembly when the first hinge assembly is in the closed position and the second hinge assembly is moved to the open position; andthe lid is pivotable about the body hinge pin of the second hinge assembly when the second hinge assembly is in the closed position and the first hinge assembly is moved to the open position.

6. The insulated container of claim 4, wherein the lid is removable from the body when the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly are moved to the open position.

7. The insulated container of claim 4, wherein the first and second hinge assemblies are biased to the closed position.

8. The insulated container of claim 1, further comprising a battery removably mounted to a sidewall of the body, wherein the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly are mounted to different sidewalls than the removable battery.

9. The insulated container of claim 8, a release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to an exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

10. An insulated container comprising:a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume;a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume;a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components; anda release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

11. The insulated container of claim 10, wherein the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components.

12. The insulated container of claim 11, wherein the battery is removably mounted to the exterior wall of the body above the cooling component compartment.

13. The insulated container of claim 11, wherein:one or more side walls of the body defining the cooling component compartment comprise vents; andthe battery is removably mounted to the exterior wall of the body opposite a vented sidewall.

14. The insulated container of claim 11, comprising a stepped interior within the storage volume and the cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the battery is partially embedded within the exterior wall above the step.

15. The insulated container of claim 10, wherein the release mechanism includes a locking assembly is selectively unlockable to release the battery from the body, the locking assembly comprises an actuator mounted to one of the battery or the body, wherein:actuation of the locking assembly to an unlocked position allows the battery to be removed from the body; andactuation of the locking assembly to a locked position causes the battery to be locked in place relative to the body.

16. The insulated container of claim 15, wherein the exterior wall of the body defines a battery-receiving recess for removably receiving the battery therein and the locking assembly is engaged with the battery in the locked position within the battery-receiving recess.

17. The insulated container of claim 15, wherein the locking assembly comprises:sliding lock having a battery-engagement portion for being removably receiving within a mating recess formed within the battery; anda button, wherein pushing the button causes the sliding lock to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

18. The insulated container of claim 17, wherein the sliding lock is spring biasing to the locked position.

19. The insulated container of claim 17, wherein:the exterior wall of the body defines a battery-receiving recess for removeably receiving the battery therein;the sliding lock actuates through an edge wall of the battery-receiving recess; and the button is positioned within the exterior wall above the battery-receiving recess.

20. The insulated container of claim 11, wherein the battery comprises a pull strap for removing the battery from the exterior wall of the body.

21. An insulated container comprising:a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; anda lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume, the lid defining a tray-receiving recess;a handle bar assembly mounted to the body and configured to telescope relative to the body between a retracted position and an extended position; anda tray configured to be stored within the tray-receiving recess and, when removed from the tray-receiving recess, configured to be removably mounted to the handle bar assembly when in the extended position.

22. The insulated container of claim 21, wherein:the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components at a first side of the body; andthe handle bar assembly is mounted to the body and telescopes to the extended position from a second side of the body away from the first side.

23. The insulated container of claim 21, further comprising a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components, wherein the handle bar assembly crosses the exterior wall that includes the battery.

24. The insulated container of claim 21, further comprising:a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components, wherein the handle bar assembly crosses an opposite exterior wall to the exterior wall that includes the battery; anda release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

25. The insulated container of claim 21, wherein the handle bar assembly comprises:a first sleeve mounted on a first side of the body;a second sleeve mounted on a second side of the body opposite the first sleeve; anda U-shaped handle assembly slidingly received within the first sleeve and the second sleeve, the U-shaped handle assembly including a first telescoping leg slidingly received in the first sleeve, a second telescoping leg slidingly received in the second telescoping leg, and a gripping portion extending between the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg.

26. The insulated container of claim 25, wherein the tray is magnetically mountable to the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg via a plurality of magnets.

27. The insulated container of claim 21, wherein:the lid comprises one or more retainers which extend into the tray-receiving recess;the tray defines matting apertures, which receive the one or more retainers to allow the tray to be placed in a first position within the tray-receiving recess; andthe tray is slidable from the first position to a second position, wherein the one or more retainers are positioned within a mating recess formed within the tray and thereby hold the tray within the tray-receiving recess.

28. The insulated container of claim 21, wherein:the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing the one or more active cooling components at a first side of the body;the insulated container comprises a stepped interior within the storage volume; andthe cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the tray, when stowed in the lid, extends over the step.

29. An insulated container comprising:a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume;a lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume, the lid defining a tray-receiving recess;a divider configured to be positioned within the storage volume;a sensor for outputting a signal indicative of the divider being positioned within the storage volume;a display; anda controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the display, wherein the controller is configured to:determine whether the divider is positioned within the storage volume based on the signal from the sensor;adjust the display to depict a first temperature control where the divider is positioned within the storage volume; andadjust the display to depict a second temperature control when the divider is not positioned within the storage volume.

30. The insulated container of claim 29, wherein the one or more active cooling components include a first cooling circuit corresponding to a first storage zone and a second cooling circuit corresponding to a second storage zone, the first storage zone and the second storage zone separated from one another with the divider when the divider is positioned within the storage volume.

31. The insulated container of claim 30, further comprising a user input device communicatively coupled to the controller and operable to separately adjust a temperature of the first storage zone and the second storage zone.

32. The insulated container of claim 29, further comprising:a battery removably mounted to an exterior wall of the body for powering the one or more active cooling components; anda release mechanism operable to be actuated between a locking configuration, where the battery is locked in position relative to the exterior wall of the body, and an unlocking configuration, where the battery is moveable relative to the exterior wall of the body.

33. The insulated container of claim 29, wherein:the body defines a cooling component compartment for housing at least a portion of theone or more active cooling components; andthe insulated container comprises a stepped interior within the storage volume and the cooling component compartment is beneath a step of the stepped interior and the divider sits on the step when positioned within the storage volume.

34. An insulated container assembly comprising:an insulated container comprising:a body defining a storage volume and retaining one or more active cooling components positioned on or within the body adjacent the storage volume; ana lid pivotally coupled to the body and providing access to the storage volume;a trolley coupled to the body of the insulated container, the trolley comprising:a trolley base for receiving the body;a telescoping handle assembly, the telescoping handle assembly extending generally vertically from the body so as to be extendable past the lid of the insulated container; anda battery holster coupled to the telescoping handle assembly for receiving a battery for powering the one or more active cooling components.

35. The insulated container of claim 34, wherein:the telescoping handle assembly comprises a first telescoping leg and a second telescoping leg; andthe battery holster is mounted between the first telescoping leg and the second telescoping leg.

36. The insulated container of claim 34, wherein the battery holster defines a batteryreceiving recess for receiving the battery.

37. The insulated container of claim 34, wherein the battery holster comprises a locking assembly that comprises:a sliding lock having a battery-engagement portion for being removably received within a mating recess formed within the battery; anda button, wherein pushing the button causes the sliding lock to move from a locked position to an unlocked position.

38. The insulated container of claim 37, wherein the sliding lock is spring biased to the locked position.

39. The insulated container of claim 37, wherein:wherein the battery holster defines a battery-receiving recess for receiving the battery; the sliding lock actuates through an edge wall of the battery-receiving recess; and the button is positioned above the battery-receiving recess.

40. The insulated container of claim 39, wherein the battery comprises a pull strap for removing the battery from the battery-receiving recess upon actuating the sliding lock to the unlocked position.

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